As soon as I got onto the train, it was apparent that I'd gotten pretty lucky. I hopped on the SE2 going from Hue to Da Nang- the part of this train's route that is particularly famous for its stunning views in the Hai Van Pass area. And I got a window seat, at a … Continue reading The Reunification Express Train
Ho Chi Minh City, originally known (and still known to the locals) as Saigon, is a really weird place. I was told that it has a higher rate of violent crime than other parts of Vietnam, though luckily I didn't see or experience any first-hand. After coming and going a number of times, the staff … Continue reading Saigon, aka Ho Chi Minh City
The "big" boat One of the things that everyone will say you MUST do while you're in Vietnam, is visit the Mekong Delta. It's not like saying you should visit the Thames. Or even the Norfolk Broads. The Mekong Delta region covers 15,000 square miles - the final stages of the Mekong river's journey … Continue reading The Mekong Delta
I promise I will be writing about the Mekong Delta and my time in Saigon soon, but for now I'm going to shove Phu Quoc in your faces. Because I'm here right now and it makes sense. Phu Quoc is sort of up and coming as far as small, Southeast Asian islands go. While the … Continue reading Phu Quoc Island
It being February, I've visited Mui Ne in winter. It is a mere 32 degrees Celsius. It is possible that choosing to stay in canvas tents in the hot "winter" sun is not as fun and joyous an idea as it initially seemed. Camping on the beach! Frolicking in the sand! Great warm-weather activities, until … Continue reading Sunshine and dunes at Mui Ne
Sleeper buses are an exhausting experience. Contrary to what their name would suggest, sleeper buses are not a place that much sleeping will happen. Even if you're on one for almost 20 hours like I recently was. This relaxing display of soothing night lights is an example of what a 15 hour sleeper bus journey … Continue reading Sleeper buses!