Nha Trang, a University town, is located by the Beach, and for this reason it attracts many Tourist's and local Vietnamese. It also has held the Miss Universe Pageant!
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Nha Trang is set in quite a nice location, being bordered by mountains on one side, and with a long beach, sweeping along a bay that is dotted with Islands on the other. Topiary and modern sculpture dot the immaculately manicured foreshore. Palm trees sway, people come and excerise on the beach front and others just go for a nice stroll.
As a beach destination in Vietnam, I thought it pretty good as there were great restaurants, bars, diving and crystal clear water. I took several boat trips out to the islands.
Getting to Nha Trang was scenic, as we followed the road along the rugged coastline beside the ocean then along the Esplanade to where my Hotel was located.
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| Favourite spots: |
I loved the 6kms of Nha Trang beach that continued on to Hong Chong Promontory, where there was more beach and some secluded coves.
Remember to keep in mind, the best beach weather is generally before 1pm... the afternoon sea breezes can make things unpleasant until the wind dies back down around 8pm. Beach chairs are available for rent where you can sit and enjoy the drinks, light food or massages that the beach vendors have on offer. I had a peek out my window at 5am and was surprised to see the Esplanade a hive of activity! Men playing volley ball, an excercise class and lots of people swimming at this early hour!
The best time to visit is during the dry season - from June to early October. During heavy rains, run off from the rivers at each end of the beach flows into the bay, gradually turning it a murky brown. Usually falls only at night or in the morning.
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| What's really great: |
Po Nagar Cham Towers are on a hill overlooking the fishing fleet, between Xom Bong Bridge and Hong Chong Bridge.
This site dates back to the 8th century and they were originally built in dedication to the Hindu goddess Po Nagar They were taken over later by Buddhists.
Originally, there were 8 Towers, and today, there are only 4 remaining, which seem in quite good condition. They were constructed by the king of the Cham principality Kauthara. The tallest tower is dedicated to Po Nagar, the wife of Shiva, another to the son of Shiva, one to Shiva and the other ? Inside the towers are small rooms with Alters where Buddhists bring offerings. The site is interesting, as is the wonderful view I had over the fishing fleet and of Nha Trang.
I also managed to see two Cham men playing the drums.
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| Accommodations: |
I stayed at the Hai Yen Beachside Hotel which is on the esplanade across from the beach. I asked for a high room, this was on the 3rd floor, with a small balcony, no chairs, but with beautiful views of the ocean, palms and islands. The room needed a refurbishment, but is was clean. A nice extra, was the shoe shine in my room, my shoes really needed it. It had air conditioning, tv., fridge. The bathroom was small. Staff weren't very good with english. The buffet breakfast was good, with plenty of choice. My stay at this hotel was pleasant. Its in a good position and I would reccommend it to others.
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| Restaurants: |
One of the things I liked about Nha Trang, was the lovely Restaurants and cafes dotted alongside the Beach.
This was a really nice spot to enjoy an evening meal, which I did
Another time, I enjoyed having my Icecream here, views overlooking the beach and the far islands, people watching and reading my book, this was the life!
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| Other recommendations: |
This was a Boat tour I did that departed firstly toThi Island where we fed the Ostriches and Deer. I also hopped onto the back of an ox to have my photo taken with my camera. Travelling between the Islands, we saw quite a few floating fishing villages.
The next Island is Orchid Stream Island and it's here where there is a beautiful garden. There is an Elephant and Bear show to watch, I didn't!. They stop here for 3 hours and lunch (included) is had here.
Our last stop is Lao Island (Monkey Island) Wild monkeys are everywhere. Also included, is a monkey and dog show, one that I didn't enjoy as I felt sorry for the animals.
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Published on Tuesday April 12th, 2011
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Sat, Apr 30 2011 - 09:00 PM
 by mistybleu
| What lovely place to visit - great repor |
Tue, Apr 12 2011 - 04:13 PM
by eirekay
| Great report with lots of nice pictures! |
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