SHANGHAI SOUTH CHINA ALL CHINA - AHKs

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Idyllic Halong Bay
international cuisine almost any kind of food can be found with
new restaurants opening up on a regular basis. After a long and
exciting day of sightseeing and shopping there is simply nothing
like a cold beer in one of the numerous bars around the lake and the
old quarters. Make sure you also try the unique taste of the strong
Vietnamese coffee, typically served with condensed milk.
A Stone’s Throw a Bay
Only 170kms east of Hanoi is Halong Bay - one of UNESCO’s world
heritage sites. The name itself translates into “Bay of descending
dragon”. More than 1,900 limestone islands and islets are shaping
this area. The best way to discover the surroundings is by joining
one of the numerous cruises. They are ranging from simple day
tours to pampering all-inclusive three-day cruises, depending on
one’s time and budget. Besides visiting the famous stalactics grotto
it is interesting to take a closer look at the so-called floating villages.
Their houses are virtually built on small swimming isles. They are
worth a visit to buy fresh seafood, rent a kayak and explore the
unique lifestyle of the local fisherman.
Vistas and Villages
An easy, convenient and surprisingly pleasant night train ride from
Hanoi will take you up to the northern Vietnamese border city of
Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa. Built as a French military sanatorium
hill station in 1912, Sapa developed into a Mecca for trekking and
hiking. Located at an altitude of 1,600m it is part of the Hoang Lien
Son range. This range includes Vietnam’s highest mountain, Fan Si
Pan, at a height of 3,142m above sea level. Many of the Vietnamese
minorities such as the Hmong and Yay live here. They are dressed
in distinguishing clothing. The majority of them are farmers. One of
the best ways to explore the area is to hire a local guide and go for
a three- or five-day hiking trip. Staying overnight at the welcoming
homes of the villagers on the way can be quite an experience.
Easy In, About and Out
Hanoi is convenient to reach by plane from all major cities in
China. Those with more time or less budget can easily access the
country with an overland bus taking you straight from Nanning
into Hanoi (approx. eight hours) or from Kunming via night bus
or train to Lao Cai (nine hours). A tourist visa is required for most
nationalities and can be obtained through the Vietnamese Embassy
and Consulates in China, as well as through travel agencies.
Transportation within Vietnam can easily be arranged at almost any
accommodation and tourist information at the above mentioned
destinations. SN
The giant turtle of Ngoc Son Temple
A paradise for ladies and shoe lovers
www.china.ahk.de
2010 April - May 73