3 ideal luxury resorts to spend your summer in Vietnam

Sipping a cold cocktail on a white sand beach, with a dense jungle at your back and the lapping of the tide gently soothing your senses – what could be better? Vietnam’s luxury beach resorts are some of the best in Asia, with luxurious accommodation available at affordable rates all along the country’s 3,200 kilometers of coastline.
 
Fantastic Vietnamese food and the sunny warmth of both climate and its people make this a great choice for relaxing and unwinding in stunning surroundings.

Princess d'Annam Resort & Spa

Facing a century-old French light house and placed in a picturesque surrounding amidst magnificent sceneries, the Princess d’Annam Resort is Vietnam’s first all-villa luxury boutique resort. The hotel is situated on the pristine bay of Ke Ga about a 4-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh city. Overlooking the South China Sea, it is features stunning mountains, red canyons, sand dunes, and a rich ecosystem. Guests can participate in a wide range of outdoor activities from four-wheel exploration on dirt roads or spectacular mountain raids, to playing at one of Vietnam’s best golf course.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a top-picked destination when it comes to a beach vacation in Vietnam. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Nha Trang is a 5-star international resort where you can peacefully rest in a fresh and natural atmosphere with cool sea breezes combined with the aroma of grass and plants. With an area of 26,000 square meters, this resort is designed with traditional Vietnamese coconut leaf roofs. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is one of the first resorts in Vietnam that receive many prestigious awards from tourism associations in Vietnam and around the world.

Anantara Mui Ne

Set on Mui Ne’s pristinely sweeping beach, Anantara Mui Ne Resort is an oasis of elegance and comfort offering a unique and exclusive way to experience the southern coast of Vietnam. Mornings are spent by the pool deck, afternoons by hikes through nearby sand dunes, and evenings by a soothing spa treatment before starlit dinners near the beach. Expertly blending Vietnamese tradition and legendary Anantara service, the resort offers a tropical retreat, worlds away from Vietnam’s urban bustle. Rooms are set in the serenely designed main building that embodies a contemporary grace infused with touches of Vietnamese charm, while more exclusive private villas are located in impeccably landscaped, tropical garden.

See more: The best day trips from Hoi An, Vietnam

Source: Internet

Visit these cafes to escape the summer heat in Ho Chi Minh City

Green space and a cool atmosphere make these unique cafes in Ho Chi Minh City popular hideouts from the sizzling sun.

38 Flower Market & Tea House

This café on the busy Ly Tu Trong Street looks like a small garden in the heart of Saigon where fresh flowers can be found in every corner.

Thanks to its breezy, cool space, the café has become an ideal getaway amidst the scorching summer heat with real feel afternoon temperatures climbing to 41 degrees Celsius, or 106 degrees Fahrenheit.
Besides coffee, the drinks menu is also designed to help you cool down with various kinds of teas and juices. Prices start from VND30,000 ($1.31).

Nang Xanh Garden Café

Nestled down a small alley on Hoang Hoa Tham Street in Phu Nhuan District, Nang Xanh (Blue Sunlight) Garden Café catches the attention with its eye-catching interior décor with a tropical theme.
The shop is covered with green plants, giving customers a refreshing feeling. The café is open 24 hours a day.

Tron (Round) Bistro Café  

The café on Dinh Bo Linh Street in Binh Thanh District is a not-to-be-missed address for nature enthusiasts thanks to its green space and wall decor. Guests can enjoy drinks such as strawberry tea, coffee and juices, with prices starting from VND25,000 ($1.09).

See more: The best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Top water activites to do in Jeju in the summer

Home to the breathtaking Hallasan mountain, the awe-inspiring haenyo or powerful sea women, and historically-infused harubangs or grandfather statues at Jeju Stone Park, Jeju Island is also renowned for its picturesque beaches. For all water sports enthusiasts, add Jeju to your bucket list! It is a paradise filled with crystal turquoise waters perfect for you to spend your summer.

Kayaking

What’s more fun than kayaking? Kayaking in a transparent boat! Kayak in the emerald ocean of Jeju at Woljeongri Beach, also known as the “place where the moon rests”. The beach boasts silvery white sand complemented by flaring hues of the sun. Breathe in the ocean air and repose while  the see-through kayak brings you even closer to the marine life and ocean floors. This activity is suitable for all ages. Bask in the summer heat and kayak on.

Stand-up paddleboarding

Originating from Hawaii, stand-up paddleboarding is a relatively new sport that has just been introduced to the island in recent years. This activity is also beginner-friendly as lessons are provided. All you have to pay for is the board rental! Not to worry, the instructors are equipped with the ISA SUP instructor certification and can communicate in English. Opt for the Jeju SUP Surfing Club guided tour to learn the basics of paddleboarding and embark on a unique tour of Jeju Island’s caves.

Submarine tour

When else will you get a chance to get on board a submarine? The Seogwipo Submarine conducts safe undersea tours along the 40-metre deep sea bed which allows you to observe the brightly-colored fish and beautiful coral reefs. A passenger ferry at Seogwipo Port will take you to Munseom to board the submarine. After the deep sea tour, there will also be a tour of Munseom Island itself. This activity is perfect for families with children and those who still wish to get up close and personal with Jeju marine life without having to get their feet wet.

Scuba diving

The deeper you go, the cooler it gets. Try scuba diving at the Southern coast of Jeju and revel in the vibrant marine life! The Jeju Island Diving Service conducts their dives at small rocky outlets off Sogwipo city. Opt for a dive at Supseom Island to witness the large schools of squid and you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins if you’re lucky.

Read more: Experience 4 routes for hiking in South Korea

Snorkeling

Located 14 kilometres east of Jeju, Hamdeok Beach is a tropical gem that boasts clean and shallow waters perfect for snorkeling. The marine life of Hamdeok Beach is sure to entrance you with colorful glimpses of yellow-striped butterfly fish, triggerfish and little schooling fish, amongst others.

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Top destinations in Japan to visit during summer

Although the weather can be temperamental and the air impossibly steamy, summer is a still a wonderful time to make the most of what Japan has to offer. If you’re planning on visiting Japan during the summer, here are a handful of places worth adding to your itinerary.

Shimoda, Izu

For a laid-back beach escape not too far from central Tokyo, the Izu Peninsula is one of your safest bets. Home to a collection of picturesque beaches scattered along the coastline, this peninsula can be found jutting out the south of Japan just below Mt. Fuji.

As you make your way southward, you’ll find a number of cute beach towns worth exploring, including Atami, Ito and Higashi Izu. However, the highlight is arguably Shimoda, a historical little beach hub situated right down south. This is where American Commodore Matthew C. Perry first reached Japan in 1853, beginning diplomatic relations between the two nations, making it a rather fascinating historical site.

Two of the area’s best places to spend a lazy summer day are the local beaches of Shirihama and Nabetahama. For a large open coast, white sands and clear water, head straight to Shirihama. Once you’ve spent the morning on the sand, pack you gear and tear around the corner to explore the fascinating Nabetahama Beach, a shady hidden secret cove loved by the locals.

Ishigaki, Okinawa

When people plan to vacation in Japan, some of the first images that come to mind are the historic streets of Kyoto, the neon lights of Tokyo and the soft cherry blossoms that carpet the country in the spring. However, some beach-hungry adventurers are beginning to discover that Japan is actually home to some tropical hideaways stunning enough to compete with Fiji and Hawaii.

Head to Okinawa Japan’s southernmost prefecture to find arguably one of the nation’s best kept secrets. A long-time holiday destination for locals, this collection of islands is quickly becoming an itinerary addition for the savvy traveller. This year, Okinawa’s Ishigaki Island was named the ‘number one travel destination for 2018’ on TripAdvisor, a title that takes into consideration positive reviews of accommodations, restaurants, attractions and online interest. Incredible untouched beaches, a unique culture and some of the most incredible food you’ll find anywhere, it’s definitely worth looking into for your next beach paradise adventure – but be quick, word is spreading fast.

Hakuba, Nagano

A name typically more synonymous with the colder months, the village of Hakuba in Nagano has long been considered by international guests as one of the country’s best snow destinations. However, what many don’t know is that the area is arguably just as beautiful in summer (and much easier to visit). With its picturesque snow-capped mountain ranges and cooler climate, it’s the best place to head if you’re looking for a fresh escape from the concrete heat of the city.

Even if there isn’t any snow, many of the area’s ski lifts, like the ones in ski resort Happo-One, are still in action, allowing guests the chance to scale the incredible peaks and valleys of the area and providing some of the most scenic hiking opportunities you’ll find in the entire country. After hiking, be sure to pay a visit to Lake Aoki for a little kayaking, swimming and picnicking. With its almost impossibly clear mountain water and lush surroundings, it’s the country’s most underrated summer destination.

Mt. Fuji

If you’ve ever thought of climbing the iconic Mt. Fuji, the time to do it is in the middle of summer. The months between early July to mid-September are the only times the mountain is actually open for people to scale its imposing 3,776-meter (12,388 ft) peak, so if you’ve always wanted to give it a go, plan accordingly.

The climb can be done in a single day; however, most people like to begin the journey at night in order to make it to the top for the sunrise. On the mountain, there are cabins available for overnight accommodation in case it does get too cold.

This time of year, it is pretty much free of snow, making it relatively safe and not too challenging even for the most casual of climber (unless you are someone who is prone to altitude sickness). Potentially the biggest obstacle you’ll have to overcome is dealing with the swarms of local and international tourists who make their way here during the short open season. If you can, try and avoid Obon, a national vacation week that runs in mid-August, as it’s one of the most densely populated times of the season.

Karuizawa, Nagano

Stunning in winter, and picture perfect in autumn, Karuizawa is a popular holiday destination for Japanese vacationers all year round; however, it’s quickly garnering a reputation for being the ultimate summer hideaway. Situated in highlands of beautiful Nagano Prefecture, like Hakuba it’s cooler climate-wise, reaching just around 25°C (77°F) in summer, a vast difference to Kyoto’s recent 40°C (104°F) summers.

Ideal for hiking, the area is home to a number of scenic walking trails along the base of Mount Asama. Be sure to pay a visit to Karuizawa Shiraito Falls, a unique spring water waterfall that is a popular sightseeing destination. Also a well-known place for fine dining and shopping, this small city has long been considered a more upmarket resort town in winter, yet it’s adapting to accommodate its newfound reputation as a summer retreat for the most budget-conscious traveller.

See more: Best places to admire Mount Fuji from afar in Japan

Source: Internet

Beat the summer heat with 6 theme parks in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the favorite destinations in the world when it comes to fun places to visit with family and friends. And to add more fun to your vacation, the extravagant theme parks in Malaysia attract thousands of visitors from far and wide every year. Serving as a perfect escape during the summers, one can enjoy hundreds of rides, water sports, and mouth-watering cuisine at these theme parks.

1. Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Considered to be one of the best water theme parks in Malaysia, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is a favorite among travelers of all age groups. Located about 15 km from the city of Kuala Lumpur, this theme park offers nearly 80 attractions to choose from. Spread across an area of 88 acres, the park is divided into Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, and Scream Park. Major attractions are Vuvuzela, Little Zimbabwe, Surf Beach, Captain Kids’ Candyland, Grand Canyon River Rapids, and others to choose from.

➡️ Location: 3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Adults – RM150, Children and Senior Citizens- RM 120

2. Genting Highlands Theme Park

Genting Highland Theme Park is known to be one of the best indoor theme park Malaysia. Genting Malaysia Theme Park is the place where one turns into a child and forgets all the worries out there. This theme park includes Ripley’s Believe it or not Museum and Haunted Adventure parks all indoors. Some of the most famous rides and activities include Busy Bugs, Mini Train, Rio Float, Reindeer Cruiser, Circus Ride among others. You can enjoy all these activities by not burning a hole in your pocket as Genting Highland Theme Park ticket price is not very high.

➡️ Location: Pahang, Malaysia
Genting Theme Park Opening Timings: 10 AM to 12 AM
Entry Fee: Adults- RM 29, Children- RM 31

3. Lost World Tambun

Lost World Tambun is one of the most visited theme parks in Malaysia where one can experience spellbinding experience amidst exploring an entire world of fun, relaxation, and cuisine. This theme park is divided into six areas of unlimited fun and adventure namely Water Park, Amusement Park, Petting Zoo, Tiger Valley, Tin Valley, and Adventure Park. Famous rides and activities that you should not miss include Jungle Wave Pool, Kids Explora Bay, Adventure Express, Tin Mining Tours,13 High Rope Course, 6th Mile Tunnel, Zip Line etc.

➡️ Location: 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, 31150 Ipoh, Negeri Perak, Malaysia
Timings: 11AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Starting from RM 43 to RM 49

4. Escape Theme Park

Escape Theme Park is one of the best theme parks in Malaysia that is built in the natural settings offering unlimited fun and frolic to both kids and adults equally. With its natural settings, this park offers rides and activities like that of Atan’s Leap, Monkey Business, Go Ape, Gecko Tower, Tubby Racer, Zoom Bug, Foxy Burrow, Greenie Program, Learning House, Serambi and many more. And need not worry about safety of your kids, as they are the best in terms of providing safety and security. This park is also among the top 10 water parks in Malaysia.

➡️ Location: 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Timings:10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Adults – RM 72, Kids-RM50, Monday Closed

5. Little Big Club

Little Big Club is one of the famous indoor theme parks in Malaysia. An absolute favourite among kids, this theme park is famous for favourite TV characters. It’s an absolute delight for kids to see their favourite characters dancing and entertaining. Some of the popular activities includes Angelina Ballerina dancing classes, live dance show of Barney, ride on Bertie the bus among others.

➡️ Location: Puteri Harbour
Timings:10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: RM 65

6. Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

For those who are looking for reasons to visit Malaysia in summers, can never find a better reason than exploring the famous Berjaya Times Square Theme Park. Considered to be one of the popular theme parks in Malaysia, Berjaya Times Square features Galaxy Station’s 6 adrenaline pumping rides along with attractive shows and amazing discounts make it one of the top 10 theme parks in Malaysia for spending a memorable day with family.

➡️ Location: 1st Floor, Berjaya Times Square, No 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Timings:10 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: Adult – RM 51, Kids-RM 41

Read more: Where to go in Asia for summer vacations

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The ideal destinations for summer in Vietnam

If you have a plan to travel to Vietnam in summer but not know where to go. Just check some attractive places that are well worth taking a visit. It will be the best choice for tourists when coming to Vietnam in the hot wet season.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is renowned for its crescent-shaped coastline, pristine beaches, and turquoise bay. The bay is dotted with small islands and is surrounded by an array of hills. Those visiting this part of Vietnam in summer can also enjoy windsurfing, parasailing, undersea walking, and fly-boarding.

Mui Ne

This tourist attraction of Phan Thiet has been famous for its long white sandy coastal line, crystal-like water and endless lines of green coconut trees. There are plenty of best places that you must visit in June whilst in Mui Ne, such as Hon Rom beach, Fairy Spring, Cham Temple – Poshanu, fish market.
Not only will you have the opportunity to contemplate the beautiful scenery, but also to try many different water activities such as kite surfing or scuba diving. And do not forget to taste various delicious seafood dishes which as well are the pride of the residents here.

Da Lat

Da Lat is not too hot in comparison to other cities in Vietnam in June. It offers travelers the best weather, fun shopping, great food and a surprising number of wonderful places to visit. In this city of thousands of flowers, you may find the French colonial buildings, deeper island, pagoda and temples interesting and also many waterfalls and hill-tribe villages amazing. The best places to visit include Love Valley, Mong Mo Hill, Than Tho Lake, Da Lat Cathedral, Bao Dai Palace and Elephant Falls.

You will never run out of activities to amuse yourself in Da Lat. There are plenty of activities to choose such as biking, hiking, cruising, or simply enjoying the fresh and cool air. Da Lat offers a lot more interesting outdoor and indoor activities, especially in the summer.

Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is yet another beach destination for a summer in Vietnam. The largest island in Vietnam can be accessed by ship or plane. Khem Beach, Sao Beach, Ham Ninh fishing village, splendid corals, and unique seafood dishes make it a perfect summer getaway.

Ha Long Bay

The UNESCO-listed world heritage site of Ha Long Bay needs to be on the itinerary of every traveler, especially if one is visiting Vietnam in summer or spring. The destination is most famous for the cruise tours past the towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. However, those visiting in summers can discover the bay in an entirely different way. Tourists can relax on the shores, visit the cool caves, swim in the glittering waters, or take a seaplane ride.

Read more: Top 10 activities in Ha Long Bay

Sapa

Sapa is rated as one of the most dramatic nature mountain sites in the northeast of Vietnam. It lies at an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level, the annual temperature in Sapa town is 15.4°C with a maximum of 29.4°C. Therefore, it is highly seasonal with a subtropical climate and an ideal place to visit in the summer. Sapa is the home to many minority traditional tribal villages, primary the Black Hmong and Dao tribespeople and you can trek through their villages to understand more about the unique local customs.

Visiting Sapa in the summer, you will have a chance to admire the breathtaking view of terraced rice fields. They will turn green to yellow for harvesting season. To get the amazing view, immerse into the pleasant atmosphere or record the images of Sapa town, tourists can go to Tram Ton Pass or Heaven’s Gate, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam.

Source Internet