Top markets in Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is no different from other cities of Vietnam that has got a great selection of local markets for travelers to explore and try their luck at bargaining. Here is some info on Nha Trang’s best markets.

Dam Market

Dam Market (Cho Dam) is the largest and most popular one of all. With three floors full of stalls and boutique shops to explore, Dam Market is a bit of an overwhelming experience, but nevertheless a must-do. It is part tourist souvenir market and part local market. You will find all sorts of merch, from clothes, shoes and bags to tourist trinkets, art, designer knockoffs, electronics, dried and packaged foods and food stalls. The dried seafood section is worth your time, because you will find some of Nha Trang’s most famous local specialties such as dried shrimp, squid and cuttlefish.

Since this is a very popular destination for most tourists, prices may be a little inflated when quoted to you. Get your bargaining skills ready. However, do try not to haggle too much. Remember that a dollar to us may be worth a meal to the locals. To avoid tourists and get a more local experience, visit early in the morning. Early hours are when Nha Trang’s residents go shopping. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid the midday heat.

Xom Moi Market

For a more raw, local experience, head to Xoi Moi Market (Cho Xom Moi). Locals come here to shop for their groceries, household equipment and whatever else they need in their everyday life. Xom Moi Market is situated a little further away from the center of the city, so you’re gonna have to wake up a little early to get there around 7 a.m. which is when the market comes to life. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast here from the array of Vietnamese dishes the vendors sell in their stalls. These include pho, the de-facto national dish of Vietnam, and a local specialty called ‘bun ca’, a fish soup with rice vermicelli and fish balls. Don’t forget to buy some delicious fruits such as mangosteen (seasonal), milkfruit, rambutan and mango. If you do not like the smell of durian, you should probably avoid the food section or just hold your nose as you walk past.

Vinh Hai Market

While other markets are great if you enjoy being surrounded by locals going about their day, Vinh Hai Market (Cho Vinh Hai) serves those who prefer to steer clear of the crowds. Vinh Hai Market is not only smaller, but it is also more local than the other two mentioned above. Perhaps you may even be the sole foreigner around. Don’t be afraid if curious locals come up and talk to you. Since the market is not touristy, you won’t find as much merch as you might you find in typical tourist markets, like souvenirs or fake branded items. You will get the real authentic stuff, and for a much cheaper price.

Nha Trang Night Market

Of course, as with any other city in Vietnam, Nha Trang has a night market. What’s a little odd though is that it opens at 9 a.m., however it is most lively after the sun goes down. If during the day you were busy exploring all the beach that Nha Trang has to offer, and forgot to do some shopping, then the night market will be your chance. Like Dam Market, souvenirs, cheap clothes and all kinds of novelty items are sold in the stalls that line up and down the street. The night market will certainly be a great walk after a filling seafood dinner on the way to your next venue – possibly a pub to spend the night away.

See more: A day trip in Vinpearl Land, Nha Trang

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The most spectacular dining locations in the Maldives

The restaurants and destination dining experiences available in the Maldives are beyond compare, taking you from the serenity of a beach at sunset to the lush greenery of the jungle to the glittering turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Feast your way around the world’s most romantic archipelago with these 7 spectacular dining locations where delicious gourmet meals come served in stylish, surreal surroundings.

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Sometimes a romantic dinner by the ocean is all you need to escape reality for a while and just be in the moment. And when this happens to be a multi-course gourmet feast accompanied by the sea breeze and chilled champagne at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, then the moment is as perfect as it can be.

Muraka at Mirihi Island Resort

Dinners on Muraka’s over-water decked terrace come with sublime sunsets and a soundtrack of lapping waves. There are only eight tables, but the delicious food is worth fighting for a seat. Specialties include Maldivian lobster and Angus beef, all paired with carefully selected international wines.

Olive at Kandolhu

Olive, the laid-back open-air restaurant at Kandolhu, serves tantalizing Mediterranean cuisine on a breezy circular deck with panoramic views of the dazzling blue ocean.

Sunset Pool Café at Hideaway Beach Resort

True to its name, the Sunset Pool Café at Hideaway invites patrons to sample a fusion of Asian and European cuisines in a stunning alfresco poolside setting. Come sunset, the view over the glistening infinity pool blending seamlessly into the mesmerizing ocean gets even better.

Ocean Pavilion at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Nestled in the heart of a shimmering lagoon, the Ocean Pavilion at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa makes for a fabulous Maldives dining location. Built out of antique wood, this thatch-roofed over-water structure is the place to be for sunset cocktails and intimate, atmospheric dinners with a view.

Gourmet Picnic at Niyama

Enhance your Maldivian vacation with a private gourmet picnic at Niyama. The experience comes complete with dreamy lantern lights, dazzling ocean views, and a private chef who will take care of everything.

Nooma Dinner at Baros Maldives

Make your tropical holiday in the Maldives one to remember with a romantic dinner cruise for two in a traditional, wooden sailing dhoni. Nooma Dinner, one of Baros Maldives’s most unique epicurean experiences, offers you the opportunity to feast on gourmet specialties and delicious cocktails while sailing into the sunset.'

Read more: How to eat like a local in Maldives

Source Internet

Best things you can experience in Abu Dhabi

If the United Arab Emirates is on your travel itinerary this year, check out this handy list of the best things to see and do in its capital, the multi-faceted Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is full of immersive, educational and historical experiences. Whether you’re planning a stopover or a lengthier stay, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in the second most populous city in the emirates. Discover Abu Dhabi’s significant buildings, walk on the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, spend the night in the desert or ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster – it’s all in the UAE’s cultural capital.

Visit the largest mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the UAE

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE’s most beautiful mosque, and it’s here that you can stroll barefoot on the world’s longest hand-knotted carpet, beneath one of the largest crystal chandeliers on the planet. This elaborate religious site can hold up to 40,000 worshippers and was inspired by Persian, Mughal and Moorish architecture, taking its name from the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The mosque was Sheikh Zayed’s idea and he rests within it. Apart from allowing visitors the opportunity to learn more about Islam (there are free tours hosted by local guides), the mosque boasts a unique lighting setup guided by the evolution of the moon during the lunar cycle.

Pro tip: Remember to dress modestly as this is an Islamic place of worship; abayas (loose cloaks) are available free of charge at the mosque.

Spend a few hours at the Louvre

Louvre Abu Dhabi

As you stroll around the dome-shaped Louvre Abu Dhabi museum that sits proudly within the Saadiyat Island cultural precinct, you’ll see why the ruling Al Nahyan family was of the belief that this billion-dollar establishment would help the capital transition into a globally renowned cultural hub.

French architect Jean Nouvel designed this, the first foreign outpost of the iconic Paris museum, and art enthusiasts will appreciate the huge gallery space that features works ranging from prehistoric artefacts to contemporary art. Leonardo da Vinci, Pablo Picasso and Ai Weiwei are just some of the artists represented here. Given that the government spent £589 million on art loans and special exhibitions from notable French museums including Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou, you can rest assured there’ll be plenty to enjoy as you wander the waterfront building at your leisure.

Pro tip: Sunset is the best time to enjoy this magnificent structure. If you want a unique view of the museum, hire a kayak and paddle around it.

Learn about the falcon, the UAE’s national bird

Arabian Hunting Falcon in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Falconry has deep roots in Arabian history, dating back more than 2,000 years. The Peregrine falcon is a symbol of the UAE’s Bedouin culture and owning one today is a great source of pride. These hunting birds are so respected that they are able to get their own passports and can cost anywhere between Dh2,000 (£430) and Dh50,000 (£10,700) to purchase. While first and foremost a veterinary facility, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital has developed into something of an educational institution since opening in 1999, providing interested visitors with tours that instil greater awareness and education about these valuable birds. You can tour the site with a guide, see the vets in action and even handle a bird yourself.

Pro tip: Make some extra time for the neighbouring Arabian Saluki Centre, a breeding and training centre for saluki dogs, where you’ll find out all there is to know about these desert canines.

Take a spin in an Eco-Donut Boat

Eastern Mangroves Promenade is one of the city’s less well-known attractions. Located just off the main highway to Dubai on the north side of the capital, you’ll find a cluster of Eco-Donut Boats you can drive yourself. The small solar-powered circular boats can be hired for an hour or more with up to six people on board. Navigate your way around the wildlife-filled mangroves and enjoy a BYO lunch or dinner – it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening surrounded by nature.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for foxes, turtles, flamingos and sea snakes, and allow plenty of time to find parking, as it can get very busy, particularly at the weekends (Fridays and Saturdays).

Go for gold at Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace is the official guest palace of the city’s government, and as such no expense has been spared, inside or out. This 394-room establishment is dripping with gold, and that means visitors or in-house guests can enjoy a 24-carat gold-flaked cappuccino, a gold-encrusted ice cream or a gold facial. The palace boasts beautiful Islamic architecture and elaborate decor and is also home to a marina and a private beach. Gold is such an important part of this property that it even boasts its own gold-leaf specialist, whose job it is to keep the precious metal sparkling.

Pro tip: While you’re at the palace, factor in a visit to the Founder’s Memorial, a permanent tribute to the country’s first president, Sheikh Zayed. Find the landmark by wandering out of the front gates of the palace and walking toward the Corniche – it’s on the corner.

Spend a family day out at Yas Island

Once nothing but a sandy plateau, Yas Island has been developed into the capital’s family hub. Home to three theme parks, a world-class Formula One race track, a beach club and the biggest mall in the emirate, there’s plenty to keep you amused here. Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World, explore the six immersive worlds at Warner Bros World, cool off at Yas Waterworld and Yas Beach or get a taste of Grand Prix action at Yas Marina Circuit – all of this is just 20 kilometres (12 miles) from the centre of the city.

Pro tip: If you’re short of time and planning to visit two parks in one day, consider buying a one-day two parks ticket. You’ll get access to Yas Waterworld and either Ferrari World or Warner Bros World.

Take a tour of the Royal Palace

Qasr Al Watan

Qasr Al Watan, also known as the Palace of the Nation, is a tribute to the city’s heritage and culture, and the place where the UAE cabinet and Federal Supreme Council – the highest constitutional authority – meet. Time spent here allows a greater understanding of the governing traditions and values of the city. Visitors can learn about the formation of the UAE and its governance in the west wing, and the library has a vast selection of books and historical resources, while the east wing is home to a collection of artefacts and manuscripts that shine a light on the many contributions made by the Arab world. Aside from the historical significance, it is an eye-opening architectural feat: it is designed to echo traditional Arabian architecture, with high, white ceilings and intricate wall carvings.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the jewel in the crown, the gigantic Great Hall. It measures 100 metres by 100 metres (328 feet by 328 feet), and its main dome is the largest in the world, with a 37-metre (121-foot) diameter.

Read more: Top destinations in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Source Melinda Healy/ The Culture Trip