The Magic of My Khe Beach – Da Nang
Saying goodbye to Hanoi was tough. After diving headfirst into the bustling streets, munching on local delicacies, and soaking up the vibes of places like Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay for a solid two weeks, I was hooked. The people, with their endless warmth, left a mark on me. But, let’s be real, Hanoi in January can play tricks on you with its chilly 8°C weather, a sharp slap in the face compared to the scorching 42°C I left behind in Perth. But Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of experiences, was calling us to explore beyond.
Landing in central Vietnam, Da Nang was our first stop. This coastal gem, with its history steeped in French colonialism, boasts sandy beaches that stretch for about 32km. Deciding where to stay was a bit of a puzzle, but I was up for the challenge. Instead of anchoring ourselves in one spot, we opted for short stays to fully immerse ourselves in each area’s attractions. I’ll confess, that my work took a backseat; Da Nang’s allure was too captivating to ignore.
Our beachfront hotel in My Khe Beach was a slice of paradise, with its pristine white sands. This upscale area, dotted with five-star seafood restaurants and luxurious hotels, offered more than just a stunning seascape. It was our gateway to Da Nang’s wonders, including the mesmerizing Dragon Bridge, bustling Son Tra markets, and the enchanting Sunworld Ba Na Hills.
Ah, the Dragon Bridge – it’s not just any bridge. Perched over the scenic Han River, it’s an architectural marvel known for its electrifying water and fire displays. Catching the fire-breathing show at 9 pm on weekends is a must – just a heads up, bring a waterproof jacket unless you fancy a drenching! Watching my husband’s startled expression as he got soaked (courtesy of my little secret) was a moment of pure joy I could not stop laughing.
Just a stone’s throw from the bridge, the Son Tra Night Markets are a feast for the senses. Imagine selecting your seafood, fresh off the ice, only to have it grilled to perfection right before your eyes, and then drenched in garlic butter. Heavenly! A seafood dinner and a show for under $30? Absolute bliss.
Not far from My Khe, is Sun World ba Na Hills. Imagine a bunch of creative minds on a caffeine binge, dreaming up a place where Disneyland meets a medieval French village on a Vietnamese mountaintop. Toss in some Greek mythology, a slice of the Louvre, and a peaceful pagoda for good measure. This is the home of the Golden Bridge known for the stone hands which look like they are holding the world. Despite what you might hear, I believe it’s a must-see. It’s a whole vibe, complete with the thrill of the cable car ride up. Read my previous post for more details.
Another gem near My Khe is the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills, each with its unique character. Only Mt. Thuy is open to tourists, offering breathtaking views of Da Nang from its peak. The mountains are a sanctuary of caves, tunnels, and spiritual shrines, a serene escape that captivates every visitor.
While My Khe was unforgettable, the call of Da Nang’s coastline was strong. Next on my itinerary was My An Beach.
Each place I visit is a chapter in my Vietnamese adventure and is a new story, a mix of adventure, laughter, and the sheer joy of exploring. Love my Lifestyle. one beach at a time.
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