That morning, we had a 9 AM tour to catch, with a pickup point just a few minutes’ walk from our hotel in Da Nang. It felt easy, almost effortless, as we made our way there, still easing into the day. About an hour later, we arrived at Sun World Ba Na Hills — and…
Category: Vietnam
Art & Seats in Da Nang Beach
These are traditional Vietnamese coracle boats found near the shores of Da Nang Beach. These are part of a public beach art installation painted by groups of local artists and craftsmen who turned everyday fishing boats into decorative artworks. I am linking this to Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge More art pieces scattered around I…
The Doors in Sunworld Fansipan
From temple doors to garden gates to a European-style station…Fansipan really takes you everywhere. I am linking this to Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge. But one door stood out—and not quite in a good way. A modern Starbucks sat among the historic facades. However, on a cold day at the peak, a hot coffee would feel…
Travel Diary: On the Road to Da Nang – Day 10
On our last day in Hoi An, Jack and I started the morning with breakfast before heading out to savour our final moments in the town. We wandered aimlessly, browsing for little things we could bring back home to Australia, and a few for my family in the Philippines. … when we stumbled upon a…
Doors and Seats in Hoi An
In Hoi An, even the simplest details feel like art. The old wooden doors, raw or painted in bright yellows and deep blues carry the marks of time.. Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge Just outside, low wooden seats sit patiently along the streets, inviting you to pause. These are part of the rhythm of daily life,…
Travel Diary: Still in Hoi An Day 9
Another full day in Hoi An with no real plan… just wandering. We stepped out of the hotel and let the streets lead us, with only one mission in mind: to find that little stamp shop that can turn one of our photos into a custom piece. No map, no rush… just exploring until we…
Windows in Sa Pa Stone Church
The Sapa Stone Church showcases classic Roman Gothic architecture through its sturdy stone walls, pointed arches, and simple yet striking bell tower. The structure feels both solid and graceful, with its weathered stones adding character and a sense of history. Its windows are a standout feature—tall, arched, and adorned with coloured stained glass that softly…
Silence in Ba Na Hills
In Ba Na Hills, silence is something you feel. As the fog wraps itself around the statues and along the edges of the balconies, there’s a softening and muffling sound. Silent Sunday Johnbo’s Cellpic Sunday
Travel Diary: Hoi An Day 8
Unfortunately, our plans shifted a little as my sister and niece had to cut their trip short due to my brother-in-law’s health situation. It wasn’t the ending we had imagined for this part of the journey. So from here on, it’s just Jack and I continuing on our own in Hoi An. With no set…
Monday Window in Hoi An
I stumbled upon this little restaurant in Hoi An Ancient Town and ended up gazing at it longer than planned. There’s something about those windows and lanterns that just pulls you right in.
Travel Diary: Sa Pa to Hoi An – Days 6 & 7
Day 6 It was supposed to be our rest day, but we found this place just beside our hotel in Sa Pa, so of course, we had to check it out. This is Moana. Definitely one of those spots you visit at least once, even just out of curiosity. It’s very Instagrammable, with carefully styled…
Travel Diary in Muong Hoa Valley, Ta Van Village: Day 4
Today we went on an afternoon tour to Hoa Valley and Ta Van Village, with a 2 pm pickup near Sa Pa Square at the Sa Pa Stone Church. Our van made its way along winding mountain roads, revealing sweeping views of terraced rice fields and quiet villages, each scene more beautiful than the last….
Hoi An’s History through my Lens
This week’s Lens-Artists Photo Challenge, hosted by Johnbo, explores the theme “History Through Your Lens.” It feels especially fitting to share images from my recent trip to Vietnam, where history isn’t just preserved, it’s part of everyday life.. This is the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of the most iconic symbols of Hoi An, Vietnam. (I…
Travel Diary Hanoi to Sapa: Day 3
After breakfast, the first thing on today’s agenda was visiting Le Duan Train Street. I’ve been told time and again by my son not to go because he said it’s usually seniors who get into accidents there. Sorry, Tim… but I really had to see it for myself. Especially now, with talks that the government…
CFFC – View while on a Tuk tuk Ride
This week, I’m joining Dan’s CFFC with the theme “views from or in public transport.” We actually took this ride in Hanoi for no reason other than to have a bit of fun. We were early for our restaurant reservation, so instead of waiting around, we hopped into a tuk-tuk just for the experience. To…
Adventure Begins at Noi Bai Airport
We hadn’t even stepped out of the airport yet when these beautiful murals at Noi Bai Airport already welcomed us to Hanoi. It felt like the trip started the moment we walked past those walls — colourful, detailed, and full of culture. 🇻🇳 Sometimes the journey begins even before you leave the airport. I am…