Vũng Tàu
A Charming Retreat City
If the need is to get away a few days from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, it may be better to head to Vũng Tàu located 100 kilometers away from the economic power house by road. There, you will find sun, sand, sea. And more.
As you leave the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), and embark on a scenic drive towards Vũng Tàu, already the transformation is undeniable.
Inter: Two Road Hours Only
The cacophony of city life gradually fades into the background, replaced by the gentle hum of the open road. The journey itself is a nice experience, with lush greenery and picturesque landscapes that may remind you of the enchanting beauty that Vietnam has to offer. You would arrive in Vũng Tàu in less than two hours.
Vũng Tàu, nestled some 100 kilometers away HCMC, offers a serene escape from the urban chaos of HCMC.
Vũng Tàu’s charm lies in its peaceful seclusion.
What I like the most in this coastal city is that it is a place where the weather is stable throughout the year, where there is always a cooling wind, where there are not many tourists except at the weekends.
It is cozy and comfortable.
For me, it is a city where time seems to slow down, and I can savor the simple pleasures of life. The streets are less crowded, and the atmosphere is more relaxed than that of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, one can indulge in unhurried walks along the promenade or simply bask in the sun on the beaches.
The sun-kissed beaches offer you front-row seats to both sunrise and sunset. Stretching along these shores is a mesmerizing 20-kilometer beachfront, presenting with choices – gentle waves for a soothing swim or a calm, waveless embrace of the ocean.
Inter: Not Only Sun, Sand
The beaches in Vũng Tàu are more than just sun and sand; they are a haven like for water sports enthusiasts. The gentle waves provide ideal conditions for swimming and water activities, and there are pockets where you can ride the waves.
At the Front Beach, normally, the tide is not high, and the waves are not fierce but lapped gently against the rocky shore, then slowly receded.
While Vũng Tàu is known for its Front Beach – Bãi Trước, the Back Beach – Bãi Sau offers a different charm. There the atmosphere is more relaxed along with water sports facilities.
I could still see the occasional boats in the evening sun, looking like black sesame seeds on a piece of rice paper served with a bowl of Quang noodles; some seem to disappear into the distant ocean.
In the evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, Vũng Tàu comes alive with a nightlife scene, offering a diverse array of dining options, bars, and entertainment…
Vũng Tàu is a coastal retreat, its tranquil charm, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect destination, at least for me, seeking a peaceful escape by the ocean almost every weekend.
Vung Tau is lively on weekends; during the week, it is quiet. A sleepy city indeed. And around noon, everything is closed; all the shops and stores close their doors and only open again at two or a little bit early: one-thirty.
By Ngoc Tran
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Box1: Many Nice Attractions
Beyond its beaches, Vũng Tàu offers a host of attractions and experiences for travelers seeking more than just sun, sea and sand.
Vũng Tàu is encircled by two picturesque and not so high mountains that beckon the adventurous at heart. Núi Nhỏ (Small Mountain) and Núi Lớn (Big Mountain) are popular amount local residents; naturally, you can experience them too.
Hiking enthusiasts can traverse well-marked trails that lead to the summits, rewarding them with panoramic views of the city coastline, and surrounding landscapes. The sense of achievement that comes with conquering these peaks is unmatched.
What makes these mountain hikes even more intriguing are the historical relics scattered along the trails. As you ascend, particularly in the Small mountain, you’ll come across remnants of colonial-era cannons and fortifications, reminding Vũng Tàu’s role in Vietnam’s history. These relics stand as silent witnesses to the city’s past, providing a glimpse into its military heritage.
Perched atop Núi Nhỏ, also, the Jesus Christ Statue is a prominent landmark in Vũng Tàu. This towering white statue, standing at around 32 meters in height, overlooks the city and the ocean. Visitors can climb a spiral staircase inside the statue for a viewpoint and a sense of spiritual connection.
Located within the city, not far from the base of Núi Nhỏ, the Whale Temple is another place of religious and cultural significance. Dedicated to the protection of local fishermen and their catches, the temple features a collection of whale skeletons and artifacts, providing insights into the local fishing heritage.
The Vũng Tàu Lighthouse, dating back to the French colonial era, stands on a pic of the Núi Nhỏ, also overlooking the ocean. The panoramic views are awe-inspiring, and the area is tranquil.
Depending on the time of your visit, you may also have the chance to experience local festivals and events, which often celebrate the city’s maritime traditions. The atmosphere during these festivities is lively and provides insight into the local culture.
Box2: The Flavors of Seafood
Vũng Tàu is like a haven for seafood enthusiasts as it is blessed with a direct connection to the bounties of the ocean.
Most of the times, the prawns, crabs, and fish you feast upon are caught just hours before reaching your plate.
Walk through bustling local markets, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of colorful, glistening catches of the day. The stalls are filled with an array of seafood, including succulent prawns, delicious crabs, clams, oysters, and a variety of fish.
The choices are as diverse as the ocean itself.
Many of the seafood restaurants in Vũng Tàu are located right along the seafront, creating a special dining experience. As you savor your meal, the sound of waves crashing on the shore and the sea breeze add to the ambiance, making your dining experience not just a meal but a sensory journey.
Additionally, explore the vibrant street food culture, where you can sample local delicacies like banh khot, and banh canh cua. Or other regions delicacies such as pho, bun bo and hu tieu.
NT
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