South East Asia Part 2
First stop on our cruise was to Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital located in the north. What was noticeable was the lack of cars but 1000’s of Vespa’s ruling the roads.
Whilst in Hanoi, we took a trip to Ho Chi Minh Stilt House which is built in a corner of the Presidential Palace's gardens. It looks weathered and better constructed than other building around but still affecting a simplicity that seems better suited to servants' quarters than the President of a country. The house is set in a well-cultivated garden, set with fruit trees, willows, hibiscus, flame trees, and frangipani.
We took a junk boat from our cruise ship to get out to Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not just a must see in Vietnam but in all of South East Asia. Rising from the serene waters are thousands of rainforest clad pillars that stand as proudly as possible. I really think it was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever experienced.
We spent a day exploring Hue Danang via a riverboat cruise. If you love the beach - Danang is for you however for culture and history, there are many places to visit in Hue. We experienced an authentic Vietnamese lunch. markets, interesting finds, incredible smells and vibrant colours.
Ho Chi Minh City is the chaotic side to Vietnam. Again, there are 1000’s of mopeds ruling the roads and we were quick to learn that you cross the road at your peril. Don’t stop, keep the same pace up and just keep going! The War Remnants Museum is worth a visit. US armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, bombs and infantry weapons are on display outside.
Our final port of call was Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, known for its ornate shrines, vibrant street life and immense contrasts. Whilst in Bangkok we took a river cruise and you could see the diversity of the city. There were modern, high rise buildings that were extremely luxurious however in between these you would catch sight of shanty towns.
We managed to get to Pattaya, the closest of Thailand's major beach resorts to the capital city. We visited the Sanctuary of Truth, which a huge teak structure. The sanctuary to a philosophical truth, which tells of the importance religion, philosophy and art has played in human development.
Our final stop on the trip was to Singapore Needless to say, we visited Raffles for a Singapore Sling or two. This city felt very new and sterile. You could definitely sense the wealth if the country
We absolutely loved our South East Asia tour. If this is the sort of trip that you are looking for, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.