Discover Hue: Bach Ma National Park

The Bach Ma National Park is located in the south of Hue city. This region is nature lover's paradise, when you come here, you will be surrounded with all sorts of plants, trees, and wild animals.

What to bring along?

It is a mountainous journey so make sure to keep your backpack light. You should not to carry all your luggage with you. Except for you are travelling from Hue to Da Nang, Hoi An and then your next trip is Bach Ma. So some necessary things for the trip are:

• Mineral water and much water for cooking if you have camping
• Rain coat
• Sun cream
• Swimming suit and towel
• Map
• Lighter
• Anti-bug spray
• Some snack

Best time to visit Bach Ma National Park

Photo Journey Vietnam

You can visit Bach Ma at any time of the year. However, early fall and summer is the best time to visit here. This is because the cool air in Bach Ma will make your journey of exploring become much more poetic during this time.

What to discover

• Five Lakes

Situated about 5 km from Sea Observation Post (Hai Vong Dai), Five Lakes (Ngu Ho) is a collection of five lakes in five different high points. It is a system of large lakes which has cool and clean water. This is a great place for bathing, outdoor activities, and camping. The third Lake is said to be the most charming and beautiful by the clarity and cool water.

• Ocean Viewpoint (Vong Hai viewpoint)

It is situated on majestic Bach Ma peak at an altitude of 1,430m. You need to conquer the Vong Hai trail to reach this top. You can adore four sides of Bach Ma, Lang Co bay, Cau Hai Lake, Canh Duong beach, Truoi lake, Hue city hidden in the cloud, and endless mountains, etc.

• Do Quyen Waterfall

Spring is the best time to visit Do Quyen waterfall. With a height of around 300m, the falls are beautiful all the year with white water foam. You will notice the endless mountain hills when looking from above. The fall is named Rhododendron (Do Quyen) because many rhododendron flowers are growing around and blooming in March.

• Truc Lam Monastery

Truc Lam Bach Ma monastery is situated in the Loc Hoa Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province, surrounded by Truoi Lake. You must take around fifteen minutes by ferry to go through Truoi Lake to reach the monastery. Truc Lam is a complex of the picturesque landscapes becoming an attractive destination for tourists all around the globe when visiting Hue ancient city. You can look at the panoramic view of Truc Lam Bach Ma and Truoi Lake from the top of Bach Ma National Park. Besides, the mountain is covered by clouds all year round so that the climate here is always fresh and cool. Many arrivals flock to Truc Lam monastery to offer incense and take sightseeing.

Where to eat in Bach Ma National Park?

There is a restaurant at the middle of the mountain nearby villas, so you can have lunch and dinner here. However, when you have full day trek, it is better you should bring picnic foods to have on the way.

See more: Visit Hue, an ancient city in Vietnam

Source Internet

Must-visit cities in Central Vietnam

From rocky inlets to sandy lagoons, Vietnam’s central coast is perhaps the most striking the nation has to offer. This is an area of great cultural and historical significance, home to fascinating cities both well-traveled and hardly yet explored. For those visiting central Vietnam, these are our favorite cities.

Da Nang

Da Nang is the nation’s third largest city and a nice alternative to the cultural capital of Hanoi in the north or the economic hub of Saigon in the south. Growing between eastern peaks of the Annamite mountain range and the tranquil waters of the East Sea, this is one Vietnamese city that blends with it’s natural surroundings. For those interested in riding, the Hai Van Pass – perhaps Vietnam’s most famous road – lies just a few kilometers to the north. The spectacularly fun zig-zag of tarmac traverses through lush jungle and massive stone boulders as it skirts the sea.

Da Nang’s downtown area has transformed in recent years and is now one of the most tourist-friendly in the entire nation. The majority of the action is set on the banks of the Han River. A boardwalk runs for kilometers and is home to a number of great shops, bars and restaurants. On the weekends, the fire breathing Dragon Bridge is a must-see.

For those looking to enjoy the sand and sea, Danang and the surrounding area offer some of the country’s best beaches. From the expansive My Khe beach to the secret lagoons and hidden ribbons of gold around Monkey Mountain, there’s a beach for all tastes in Danang.

Quy Nhon

Nestled along the coast halfway between Nha Trang and Hoi An, Quy Nhon is in the midst of a government-planned, tourist-targeted revival. The main beach is one of the cleanest city beaches in Vietnam, hardly developed and very well maintained. A boardwalk shrouded in greenery runs parallel to the ocean. Most tourists visiting the region also head 10km south of the city to Bai Xep beach, which has become famous throughout Vietnam for its natural beauty.

Hoi An

The second UNESCO World Heritage site on our list, Hoi An is one of the nation’s most important tourist destinations. An area once home to Cham people, the small town grew in size and importance between the 15th and 19th centuries, attracting a large number of Chinese and Japanese traders and becoming known internationally as a top tier Asian trading port. As a result, the well-preserved stucco buildings are awash in both Chinese and Japanese influences.

Today, the city has little in the way of an economy beyond tourism. Travelers often spend a few days to a week exploring the romantic alleyways of the old town, hidden beneath the glow of hanging lanterns. Tailors and designers operate storefronts on almost every block, and it’s a traveler’s rite of passage to have something hand-made while passing through.

Hue

Hue, the nation’s ancient capital, may be the most historically fascinating city in all of Vietnam. Well-preserved temples, pagodas and tombs lie around every corner. There’s so much history here that it’s been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city’s small size makes it a great stop on any trip along the eastern coast. The backpacker district lies feet from the Perfume River and within walking distance of the ancient citadel. Anyone exploring the region should take at least a day to see the Citadel, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Thien Mu Pagoda.

For the food lover, Hue has some of the most complex and artful cuisine in the nation. Dishes are often well spiced with chili. For something different and unique to the region, try a bowl of com hen or rice with baby clams.

Read more: Visit Hue, an ancient city in Vietnam

Source The Culture Trip

Top 5 best beach resorts in Hue

The best beach resorts in Hue are located along the pristine beaches just outside the city centre, where travelers can unwind after a day of exploring Buddhist pagodas, royal monuments, and colonial structures.

Offering spacious accommodation with top-notch amenities at value-for-money rates, here are the best-selling Hue beachfront resorts cater perfectly to travelers looking to explore the ancient capital while still having easy access to the beach.

Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort

Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort is a 5-star luxury resort in Thuan An beach, beautifully located 30km from the airport and 12km from the city, this resort is a popular destination for tourists.

Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort is located in the landscape garden. In front of the resort having white sand beach stretches 400m with luxurious space, large outdoor swimming pool and spa huts floating on the beautiful pond. All of them create peaceful space.

Angsana Lang Co

Angsana Lang Co is a classy contemporary style property set right on the beach between Da Nang and Hue in the Central Coastal region of Vietnam. The resort occupies a 280-hectare piece of land, and offer easy access to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town and the Cham Kingdom Sanctuaries at My Son.

The resort counts 229 well-appointed rooms furnished and decorated in a modern style with an Asian twist and provided with state-of-the-art amenities such as satellite television, free Wi-Fi connection, electric kettle, mini-bar, private balcony, and a lot more.

Lang Co (Làng Cò) Resort

With a stay at Lang Co Resort in Phu Loc, you will be connected to a shopping center, within a 15-minute drive of Lang Co Beach and Chan May Port. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Event facilities at this resort consist of a conference center and a meeting room. Free valet parking is available onsite.

Banyan Tree Lang Co

Banyan Tree Lang Co is a five-star all-pool villa resort located in a magnificent bay near a typical fishing village 30km south of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam during the 19th century Nguyen Dynasty. The resorts location allows its guests to discover a myriad of historical marvels recognized today as World Cultural Heritage Sites by UNESCO. 

Two villa types are available at Banyan Tree Lang Co, Lagoon Pool Villa and Beach Pool Villa; both types offer a state-of-the-art spacious and relaxing environment including total privacy, superb amenities and furnishing. All villas also feature great vistas over the Annamite Mountains from their pool terraces.

Villa Louise Hue Beach and Spa

Villa Louise Hue Beach and Spa is a 3-star resort with beautiful views on Thuan An beach and has a suitable location. It is quite far from the city, about 19.7km, Villa Louise Hue Beach and Spa is the ideal choice for you to sightsee and enjoy Thuan An beach and Hue city perfectly. With a convenient location of Villa Louise Hue Beach and Spa, visitors will have chances to explore every corner of the city.

This modern, comfortable and quality resort in Thuan An beach consists of 27 fully equipped rooms, cozy space. Besides, guests also enjoy the attractive entertainment services such as private beach, outdoor swimming pool, sunbathing. Especially, this beach resort has the ancient beauty of Vietnam. Tourist can come there to enjoy the village architecture from ancient time. This is the reason why Villa Louise Hue Beach and Spa is one of the top beach resorts in Hue.

See more: Visit Hue, an ancient city in Vietnam

Source HuebyHotels

What to do in Hue, Vietnam

The historic city of Hue is worth a stop in your trip through Central Vietnam. Here are some of the must-see sights that you’ll enjoy.

Gaze up at Thien Mu Pagoda

Located on the north side of the Perfume River, on elevated ground, the Thien Mu Pagoda is an important religious and spiritual site. One of Hue’s most-visited attractions and a symbol of the city, the soaring pagoda features intricate details and beautiful sculptures. The surrounding area has many fragrant and colourful flowers too.

Discover the Imperial Tombs

There are several important imperial tombs in Hue, the final resting places of the emperors of old. The most visited tombs include those of Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc.

During his life, Minh Mang started to build his own lavish tomb. It took three years to finish, but, unfortunately, the king died four months after construction began.

Tu Duc Tomb was built on the orders of the emperor himself. It is situated in a stunning area that includes a small lake. Interestingly, even though the tomb was created by the emperor, he decided to be buried in a different, secret place. So, although people can honour the late emperor here, it remains a mystery as to where his remains actually lie.

Khai Dinh Tomb is often considered as the last cultural remnant from the Nguyen Dynasty. This magnificent tomb took a decade to be finished.

While these three tombs are generally considered the most interesting from a tourist’s point of views, there are a further four tombs in the area that are open to visitors. I didn’t visit these, having just a couple of days in town, but if you have longer they would surely add more insights to your stay.

Explore the historic citadel of Dai Noi

Dai Noi, the old citadel, is one of Hue’s most-popular tourist attractions today. A cultural and architectural heritage from the Nguyen Dynasty, the expansive complex includes several museums, ornate pavilions, and interesting sculptures, all surrounded by imposing walls. Although the citadel suffered much damage during wars, several sections have now been restored. Albeit popular, it’s still fairly quiet, partly thanks to its large size. It’s easy to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful air as you reflect on the site’s history and admire the remaining details. As you wander through the complex, passing crumbling walls and overgrown patches, take a moment to imagine how splendid it must have been in its heyday. Climb up onto the front section of the wall for good views over the site and to see cultural objects displayed with pride.

Visit the Japanese Bridge / Thanh Toan Bridge

The charming Thanh Toan Bridge, also known as the Japanese Bridge, lies a few kilometres outside of the city centre. Located in the sleepy countryside, it was constructed in the late 1700s to connect two sides of a small village. The pretty bridge features elements from both Chinese and Japanese cultures. Today, villagers often sit and chat on the quaint and picturesque bridge and pray at the small shrine, providing a terrific window into local life.

Admire the Perfume River 

The delightfully named Perfume River is a source of local pride. You can stroll and cycle along the scenic banks, but the truly perfect way to enjoy the views, cool weather, and ambience is to take a boat trip along the waterway. Soak up the peaceful atmosphere and travel back in time through the city’s rich history. Don’t miss one of Hue’s cutest riverside attractions too: the I Love Hue sign! It’s great for selfies!

Pick up souvenirs at Dong Ba Market

Sitting on the edges of the Perfume River, Dong Ba Market is one of the oldest and biggest markets in Vietnam. It provides a good opportunity to discover traditional Vietnamese items, local dishes, handicrafts, and so on. Additionally, many tourists do not go to the market just to shop; the market is also a great place to observe daily Vietnamese life.

See more: Come to Hue and visit its most popular royal tombs

Source: Internet

Top charming beaches in Hue

The ancient city of Hue has not only wonderful historical sites and amazing cuisine, but also stunning natural sceneries, especially a lot of beaches. Here are top 5 best beaches in Hue.

Canh Duong Beach

Canh Duong beach, located about 20km away from Hue city, is considered as the beach with most beautiful scenery in Thua Thien Hue province. With the length of 8km, the width of 200m, bended with arc shape, situated between two mountains including Western Chan May and Eastern Chan May, creating a very beautiful landscape.

The beach is featured with pure white sand, turquoise water and a long line of casuarinas trees. Visiting Canh Duong beach, you can enjoy the deserted beauty of nature, feel the cool and fresh air and get yourself out of daily stress.

Thuan An Beach

Thuan An beach is where the Huong River approaches Tam Giang Lagoon and then empties into the East Sea. Just 13km to the east of Hue Imperial Citadel, it has been ranked the Hue’s 10th most beautiful sense by the Thieu Tri King. Thuan An beach in Hue of the 12km coastline with cool water and just 10 minutes by bike away from the city center is a wonderful place for a Vietnam beach vacation.

Although it is seemingly the potential for the tourism development, it is fortunately kept unspoiled for those who are fond of the intact natural beauty and wish to escape the stifling city center. Just with a few shacks, you can freely submerge into the calm and spectacular setting of the beach.

Ham Rong Beach

Located beyond Tam Giang Lagoon of Vinh Hien Commune, Ham Rong Beach is an ideal beach destination which anyone, if having experienced there, always wishes to come back. Although Ham Rong is not famed enough, compared with Lang Co Beach, Canh Duong Beach and Thuan An Beach, the seascape and landscape there are extremely poetic and magnificent as there are carpets of a dense jungle embracing the beach, looking like a seductive painting. An impressive point is a stretch of massive rock formations, adorning the painting. It is interesting to have such a trip.

Vinh Thanh Beach

Vinh Thanh beach is located about 30km from the southeast of Hue city. It is not as famous as Thuan An or Lang Co, but convenient public transport, clean beach and low-price seafood are the reasons that Vinh Thanh attract many tourists. The beach is highlighted with bright sunshine, cerulean sky, gentle waves, stretched white sand, pure water and lovely sunset as well as quite neighbor.

Lang Co Beach

Located about 20km from Hue city and more than 7km from Da Nang city, Lang Co has been reputed for its pristine beauty with a crystal-clear, turquoise lagoon on one side and 10km of beachfront on the other. In summer, the weather in here is very cool and comfortable. You can enjoy normal beach activities such as swimming, fishing as well as try marvelous foods (both traditional foods of Hue and seafood are available). Besides, you can visit Bach Ma National Park located about 30km away Lang Co or explore Hai Van Pass.

See more: The quintessence of cuisine in Central Vietnam, Hue

Source Internet

The must-visit destinations in Hue

Hue lies in the center of Vietnam and has remained as the capital city for a considerable period of 143 years. There are a lot of places to visit in Hue as it is a hub of museums, tombs, rivers, and pass. It has a reputation of a more popular tourist destination in comparison to any other province or capital in Vietnam.

Hue Imperial City

This walled fortress and palace were once the home of Vietnam’s emperors. Also called “The Citadel” the palace grounds are surrounded by an impressive moat filled with waterlilies. Much of the structure was damaged in battles, but the restoration is ongoing. Once inside you can see different buildings in their original, restored and damaged stages.

Make sure your taxi driver drops you off at the correct gate. There is only one entrance to the Imperial City but some taxi drivers like to pretend that they do not know that tourists wish to be dropped off at the main gate.

The Thanh Toan Bridge

One of the main attractions of the ancient Hue city, this archetypal sumptuous footbridge is situated in the countryside. One of the beautiful places to visit in Hue, this bridge was constructed in the 18th century and consists of both Japanese and Chinese features. The core aim of this bridge is to unite the two villages. This bridge also becomes the point of congregation for the villagers thereby making it an adequate place to sit and observe the life, chat with the local people. This bridge is surrounded by lush greenery and some rice fields also.

Thien Mu Pagoda

The Thien Mu Pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River, is an iconic Hue backdrop and a symbol of the ancient city. The 7 story pagoda was originally built in 1601 but, as a site of political demonstrations, has been destroyed and rebuilt many times in the years since. The pagoda is still a religious site today and it is common to see monks wandering around the grounds.

The Austin car which Thich Quang Duc, the infamous burning monk, used to drive himself to the Ho Chi Minh intersection where he burned himself to death in an attempt to demonstrate that Buddhism needed martyrs is also housed on the grounds.

The Perfume River

Through the center of Hue flows the Perfume River. Many tourists choose to take a boat tour along the river. Passengers can enjoy the river views, have a meal and visit some of the major tourist sites around the area that are accessible by boat.

Another way to take in the river is to stroll along the walkways along the river’s edge. In the morning’s joggers take their morning runs here and in the evening the area becomes transformed. Little shops and restaurants that were closed during the day open at sunset and lanterns are lit.

Dong Ba Market

Visiting a market is an essential part of any Vietnamese sightseeing adventure and Dong Ba in Hue is a decent option. The market is a mix of local Vietnamese produce and souvenir shopping and it’s fascinating to witness market life.

Be prepared: it is dirty and grimy and a tourist tax is inevitable.

Read more: The quintessence of cuisine in Central Vietnam, Hue

Elephant Springs

Lying amidst Hue and Da Nang, this place is still under recreation zone if seen from the tourist viewpoint. This place is located at a distance of 17 km from Hai Van Pass and poses as one of the best places to visit in Hue for a refreshing break from the journey. Amidst the cold water, plenty of small and big size stone give it a look of elephants. Especially a large stone portraying the elephant, situated next to the waterfall, depicts continuous water flowing from its nose making it an interesting scene.

Source Internet

The must-try street food in Hue

Hue is one of the most attractive destinations that is also well known for being a foodie’s haven. If you have the chance to visit Hue, you must enjoy an array of delicious food to eat.

Com hen

It is a delicious dish with a mix of rice noodles, tender stir-frie clams, crisp pork cracklings, peanuts, bean sprouts, fried shallots and herbs. And you can add a bowl of hot clam broth as you want. The food can be easily found along with Han Mac Tu street.

Nem lui

You love spring rolls and want to do your own roll? This is a dish for you. Nem lui is made from well-seasoned finely-ground pork and minced pork skin. This mixture will be then attached on a lemongrass stick and grilled over a coal stove.

When eating, Nem lui will be wrapped in a thin rice paper and fresh herbs added. Rolling it up and then dip in peanut sesame sauce will make a perfect flavor. If you have the opportunity to visit Hue, do not forget to enjoy this unique dish.

Banh bot loc

While Banh Beo is having a round shape, Banh Nam is flat with minced pork added and Banh loc is cute sushi-shaped with a tasty filling. It is a combination of a small shrimp and lightly seasoned ground pork belly. The same as other Hue specialties, they also serve spicy fish sauce with this cake.
Furthermore, Banh loc are wrapped in la dong, also known as elephant ears leaves which adds a very enjoyable fragrance to the dish.

Bun bo Hue

Like many of the dishes I mentioned above, “Bun bo Hue” is ubiquitous in and around the city, featuring round rice noodles, pork bones, beefs, flavored with lemongrass, annatto seeds, ginger, fermented shrimp paste, etc. Due to popularity, you can find “Bun bo Hue” in the food stalls in the center of Dong Ba Market, a very good one for convenience and comfort.

Read more: Top must-visit royal tombs in Hue, Vietnam

Banh ep

If you want an off-the-beaten-track experience in Hue, Banh Ep is absolutely the one you should try. Different from the above dishes, the ingredients of Banh Ep are much more simple, tapioca flour and the filling (egg, pate, jerky, meat, or any combination of them). The chef cooks the cakes by pressing the dough between two pieces of cast iron on charcoal, and then they put the filling on top, and press them again into the heat.

The way people sell Banh Ep is also very interesting. People call out “One with meat please,” or “Two with egg and jerky please.” You can observe how she does it, smell the cakes from the time the two ingredients are two separate parts, to the point when they are mixed together. You can hear the sound of sizzling as it reminds your stomach that you are hungry. The cake is then passed right to you after it is done. You can touch the cake and feel its heat and crisp.

Source Internet

The best places to visit in Vietnam in March

Vietnam in March offers travelers many destinations to discover. Nice weather, breath-taking Vietnam landscapes or friendly locals are top characteristics of tourism and entertainment activities in this month. So, which most beautiful places for you to choose your amazing Vietnam tour and see more about all the above advantages. Let’s take a quick look at our most beautiful places in Vietnam in March across 3 areas. Thus, you can see the whole charm of histories, cultures and Vietnamese people in every single destination.

Dien Bien

Dien Bien is considered as top traveled and beautiful places in Vietnam in March as it is the paradise of Bauhinia variegata or Hoa Ban (called in Vietnam). The flowers bloom all over Tay Bac roads. Almost all of them are in the districts of Muong Ang, Dien Bien, Dien Bien Dong, Tua Chua.

From a distant view, there will see these iconic flowers like glittering snowflakes in big white clouds. Surrounded by bright yellow space and light winds, white Hoa Ban decorates the blue sky. Every year, Dien Bien organizes Hoa Ban – Dien Bien Festival in March to honor, preserve and promote the cultural heritage of ethnic people. In particular, white flowers are the symbol of the fragile beauty of Thai girls. Also, they represent the longevity, the faithfulness in pure love between couples.

Phu Yen

Traveling to Phu Yen is the smart choice in many great places regarding Vietnam travel in March. In this month, visitors can feel free to explore every corner of this seaside province under dry season. The weather is not so intense and windy, the sea breezes gently blow all the way and the sky is still blue and cloudless. On contrary to crowded beaches in Nha Trang or Da Nang, Phu Yen beach is untouched by tourism. That delivers visitors the feeling of conquering the sleeping beauty.

Tay Nguyen (Central Highlands)

The key characteristic of flower season in Tay Nguyen area is beautiful coffee flowers. March is the peak season of coffee blossoms. Therefore, Tay Nguyen is worth your choice of top beautiful place to visit in Vietnam at that time.

In detail, Pleiku and Buon Ma Thuot are two cities having the largest planting area of coffee fields in Tay Nguyen. So, you can bound your perfect destination to view these charming landscape. When all flowers are blooming to the fullest, you may be surprised by the unbelievable change of color here. Yesterday, you could see the green fields. But the next day, the whole scenery will be transformed into the white tone of fresh coffee flowers.

Take your chance and join Vietnam travel in March in Tay Nguyen. Because coffee flowers only bloom 2-3 times until the end of spring. After blossom time, they will quickly be faded very fast and then turn into coffee fruits in a few days. Let’s become one of the luckiest ones to sightseeing this amazing time in Tay Nguyen.

Hue

March is the beginning time in the dry season of Hue, so it will be less rainy. Thus, it is more convenient for tourists to experience Vietnam travel in March in Hue this season. That sounds extremely cool but you should also wear a long sleeved shirt. That helps to keep your body warm in case the weather changes cold.

Selecting the right month to visit, Hue will bring you a wonderful experience of discovering more about culture and history here. Since travelers not only enjoy the beautiful scenery, landscapes, historical relics but also have the opportunity to see historic monuments in the special festival.

Read more: Enjoy the poetic beauty of Hue at night

Da Nang

Da Nang almost has similar weather like Hoi An, so it also becomes the ideal place in Vietnam travel in March. At that time, Da Nang has cool weather and less rain. On the other hand, this time coinciding with the Lunar New Year, visitors feel a bustling atmosphere of celebrating Tet.

Coming to Da Nang beach in March, you will not have to squeeze for a vacancy at the peak time. Visitors can enjoy walking freely and sightseeing the blue sea. Or you simply drop yourself on the sand and listen to beach sound. This scenery looks so peaceful for all travelers here.

Source TopsVietnam

Top destinations in Southeast Asia

Spanning 11 countries, thousands of islands and hundreds of traditional cultures and unique natural wonders, the region of Southeast Asia could take a lifetime to fully travel.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

A delight to wander around, Yogyakarta is the artistic and cultural heart of the island of Java – the rich Javanese heritage shines forth wherever you look. One of the oldest cities in Indonesia, there are lots of historical sites to visit; it is still ruled by a sultan, whose elegant, walled palace dominates the center of town. A great place to live, Yogyakarta’s delightful street art, fantastic art galleries and museums, as well as its sumptuous dining options, make it lovely to visit. With the spectacular temple complex at Borobudur and Prambanan nearby, Yogyakarta is a great base from which you can explore the surrounding region.

Chiang Rai, Thailand

The most famous of Chiang Rai attractions is the iconic Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple) which was designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. Another famous work from Chalermchai is Chiang Rai’s golden clock tower set prominently in a roundabout in the center of town. Unveiled in 2008 as a tribute to the King of Thailand, the clock tower comes alive every hour as one would expect an ornate clock tower to do.

Penang, Malaysia

Penang has long been known globally as one of the most popular tourist destinations ever. From mouth-watering street food and hawker fare to iconic locations such as the Kek Lok Si Temple and the hip and trendy street murals in Georgetown, the city is more or less the poster boy of Malaysian tourism. Steeped in history and adorned with modern skyscrapers, Penang is a cultural cauldron of tradition and modernity. Definitely a world-class holiday destination and a must-visit for any self-respecting traveler in Malaysia.

See more: Penang, the Pearl of the Orient

Hue, Vietnam

Vietnam’s ancient capital city lies on the central coast between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh along the Perfume River, and originally held the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty until it fell in 1945. The rich history of Vietnam is held in the very spirit of this coastal town, and to experience the intricacies of Vietnamese culture here is like a textbook come to life. The Imperial Citadel is the central structure in Hue, with sacred pagodas extending for kilometres outside the main complex. Then there are the royal tombs and iconic Forbidden City – but without the crowds of its Chinese counterpart. Finally, don’t leave without sampling the local speciality, Banh Khaoi pancakes, which pair well with the area’s namesake microbrew.

Kampot, Cambodia

This southern region of Cambodia was once heavily influenced by French occupation, still evident today by the dilapidated colonial mansions that dot the countryside. The town itself is built around its namesake river and framed by the Elephant mountain range, with aging roadways extending into the countryside and its salt fields, rice paddies, and water buffalo. Nearby Kep is famous for its world-class pepper plantations and crab market – and the two synthesize in a winning combination. Visitors can buy crab from fishermen literally as its fished from the water, and have it cooked up in the signature peppery taste Kep is known for. This coastline is also home to the Irrawaddy dolphin, a rare species that can thrive in either salt or freshwater environments, and more closely resemble a beluga or orca than a typical dolphin.

See more: Explore Kampot, Cambodia’s hidden gem

Bagan, Myanmar

While the ancient Khmer ruins are undeniably beautiful, the towering Buddhist monuments of Bagan retain a rare magic unsullied by droves of tour groups. Some 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas, and monasteries sweep across a 42 square kilometre desert-like plain encircled by the misty Bago Yoma mountain range in the distance. Each of the structures was built nearly a century ago – between the years 1057 and 1287, at which point the kingdom fell to invading Mongols – and have been since restored and protected by Unesco. Today, the best way to experience this step back in time is by renting a bicycle or one of Bagan's signature electric bicycles to tour the enormous grounds at your own pace, joined only by passing tourists on their own routes, groundskeepers and local villagers going about their day, and the occasional monk.

Source Internet