Places to visit in Vietnam: HoChiMinh - HaNoi

No Vietnam outing would be finished without a visit to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Blasting with history, society and a touch of innovation, these two urban communities are incredible spots to visit in Vietnam. Lying in the north, Hanoi is viewed as a standout amongst the most noticeable social points of interest of Vietnam and a definitive beginning stage for a north to south Vietnam occasion. In like manner, Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect spot to end your ventures in case you're consummation your Vietnam occasion in the south of the nation.

Spots to visit in Vietnam: HCMC 

Up to 1975 Ho Chi Minh City was called Saigon, a name that is still utilized by numerous individuals. Saigon is a city of around 5 million tenants. This is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in case you're searching for a clamoring climate, as a significant part of the occupied life of the city happens actually in the city, particularly in the focal point of the city around the River Saigon and in Cholon, Saigon's Chinatown. There are a mind blowing number of mopeds and bicycles and few autos. Business sector stalls with nourishment and restaurants can be discovered all over, actually such a variety of it would appear to be the Vietnamese are continually consuming.

There are a considerable measure of "illicit" Vietnamese living in Saigon. These are regularly individuals who existed in the city up to 1975 however who after the liberation of the city were no more given a grant to stay in the city. Throughout the years a hefty portion of these individuals have come back to the city and now live in the city. Interestingly, there is likewise an affluent populace here, as the pay rates in Saigon are three times higher than the normal pay in Vietnam. You'll see them strolling along the road in a suit and with their versatile in their grasp. It's a truly intriguing city to stroll around, cycle or take a moped ride around. The city is separated into 17 city locale and 5 nation areas. The city regions have numbers, so there is, for instance, District 1 which is the real focus of Saigon and District 5 which is Cholon. These numbers are frequently painted on the houses so its not difficult to discover where you are on the guide.

Ho Chi Minh City is ostensibly one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in the event that you need to encounter both city life and also investigating sanctuaries and pagodas (sacred spots). One of the most seasoned pagodas is Giac Lam Pagoda in District 10. It was implicit 1744 and most as of late restored in 1900. Ten friars now live in this Vietnamese pagoda, and its completely advantageous making a visit amid your Vietnam trek. Not far away stand the Giac Vien Pagoda, in a somewhat quieter area. There are still ministers living in this pagoda, which is around two hundred years of age. The Dai Giac Pagoda is much more current as it was implicit the 1960s.

In the blessed piece of this pagoda you'll discover a 2.5m high Buddha with a neon radiance. The Thien Hau Pagoda, which is committed to the Chinese Goddess of the Sea remains in Chinatown. It's a standout amongst the most gone by pagodas in HCMC. Yet there's likewise the Emperor of Jade Temple, a sublime sanctuary where professors come to smolder incense stays. It's a standout amongst the most brilliant and one of the biggest sanctuaries in HCMC, brimming with statues of divine beings, including the Emperor of Jade.

Spots to visit in Vietnam: Cholon 

Searching for different spots to visit in Vietnam other than sanctuaries? Truly deciphered Cholon signifies 'substantial business sector'. Cholon turned into an imperative neighborhood when numerous Chinese migrants began to settle here from 1778 onwards. There are far less Chinese occupants here than previously, in light of the opposition to industrialist and hostile to Chinese battle in 1978-79. However with the opening of the fringes numerous Chinese specialists are returning. Luckily it is still a clamoring neighborhood, with bounty going ahead in the avenues. You'll see individuals exchanging everywhere and a visit to Binh Tay Market, near the transport station, is absolutely beneficial.

Spots to visit in Vietnam: Museums in Ho Chi Minh City

See more: Vietnam travel packages

And in addition numerous different spots to visit in Vietnam, there are additionally heaps of galleries in Ho Chi Minh City that will provide for you an impression of the Vietnam War, or as the Vietnamese call it, 'The American War'. Outside the historical center there is a little accumulation of bombs and a helicopter. Inside there are photographs of every last one of loathings that occurred amid the war. There are additionally photographs of the impacts that Agent Orange had. It's a decent thought to equip yourself for what you're going to see in light of the fact that the photographs leave nothing to your creative energy, and a large portion of them are truly stunning. The Revolution Museum takes you through different times of rebellion in Vietnam. Photographs of the imperviousness to French colonization gradually change to photographs dissenting American animosity. There is attire on demonstrate that once had a place with Vietnamese legends. The editorial in the gallery is exceptionally concise, even in Vietnamese, however the greater part of the shows are clear as crystal in the event that you have a little information of the late history of Vietnam.

The image of the end of the Vietnam War is the Reunification Palace. Up to the end of the Vietnam War the royal residence was the presidential castle of the leaders of South Vietnam. After they drove through the iron entryways they lifted the Viet Cong banner from the top symbolizing the communists were assuming control power. There are guided visits in English, which demonstrate to you the shelter in the subterrain room. This was manufactured by President Ngo Dinh Diem, who was so scorned by his own particular armed force that they attempted to kill him in 1962. Lamentably for Diem the development of a shelter had no effect to his security and his troops succeeded in executing him in 1963.

Wheels - A Short Story

The sparrow on the window pane seemed to be the only commonality between the high rise and the slum, thought Manas in his air-conditioned chamber.

He remembered that some fifteen years back, this high rise too was a flowing neat river.

Several cities and educational degrees later, the time had canonized him back to this direction.

It was a difficult decision for his family and him to move their belongings in their bullock cart from the village, that now was a bustling city.

They did, and so did their lives, like the wheels of the cart that rainy night.

Wheels of Time

This post is author's entry to Five Sentence Fiction.

Please leave your feedback below. I'd love to hear from you.

Gear Box: Eureka Spitfire 2 Tent

When it comes to your basic gear for backpacking or camping, I personally think that the most important items are your pack, sleeping bag, and tent. In each case, there are literally hundreds of options to choose from, varying greatly in design, features, and so on, and picking the right one can greatly impact the enjoyment you get from the experience.

Personally, I think selecting the right tent may be the most challenging of all of those pieces of gear. You have to weigh a number of factors, such as 3 vs. 4 season, number of people it can sleep comfortably, pack weight, and so on. And often times it is a real challenge to know if the tent will suit your needs until you're actually out in backcountry, using it for the first time.

Of course, it helps if you go with a proven name in tents, and Eureka is certainly that. The company has been designing tents for more than 100 years, and once offered covers for horse drawn wagons as well. Back then, the products were mostly made of canvas, and they were heavy, bulky items.

We've come a long way since then however, as their Spitfire 2 backpacking tent is the epitome of high tech gear. The two-person, three season tent, is made of lightweight, but tough synthetic materials designed to wear well in a variety of conditions, and keep you dry in the heaviest of downpours. Its equally lightweight frame is constructed of aluminum, and when paired with the clip attachment system, it's a breeze to set-up, and you'll be lounging inside in no time.

Once inside, you'll find plenty of room for two, as the Spitfire is surprisingly spacious. I"m rather tall, topping out over 6'2", and I was still able to not only sleep comfortably, but also sit-up without fear. The sides of the tent are completely mesh, which allows for great airflow on warm nights, like those that I get here in Texas. It is also great for clear nights, when you can lie back and enjoy the stars overhead. And when the fowl weather does set in, the included rain fly can be added easily. I also appreciated that there were doors on both sides of the tent, offering easy access to both occupants.

The MSRP for the Spitfire 2 is $169, and I can honestly say that it is well worth the money. It competes quite well with much more expensive tents, and the entire package weighs just over four pounds. It also is easy to take apart, and return to it's handy carrying case to drop back into your pack when returning to the trail. However, there are a couple of things to be aware of when buying this tent.

First off, this is not a free standing tent. You'll need to stake it down to use it properly. That, in and of itself, is not a knock against the Spitfire 2, as I prefer a tent that is staked, but you'll want to be aware of it so that you provide a bit more time for set-up. Once you have set it up however, it is rock steady and holds up to winds without any issues. You may also want to consider replacing the stakes with something a bit more heavy duty though, depending on the terrain you'll be using it in.

The other thing to consider is that there really isn't much of a vestibule on the tent, which could become an issue in heavy rains or snows, when it's nice to keep your wet, muddy boots on the outside. That may sound like a small nit to pick, but it is definitely something to be aware of.

Those issues aside however, you could do a lot worse than the Spitfire 2. It is a great backpacking tent that is lightweight, easy to assemble, offers plenty of room, and is of high quality construction. For a surprisingly low price, you get a lot of bang for your buck, and a piece of gear that will last you for a long time. As long as you can live with the few limitations I mentioned above, you'll have a home away from home on many adventures.

30,000 Feet In The Air | Thoughts

Ms Hiền Trang in Hoi An street. Photo © Tewfic El-Sawy-All Rights Reserved

At just over 8000 miles, the Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to New York is one of the longest direct flights, and it gave me ample opportunity to use my jet-lag addled brain to toss over ideas about The People of Tay Bac Photo Expedition-Workshop.

In between in-flight movies and meals...and possibly over the polar cap, I concluded that one of the most enjoyable segments of the photo expedition (for me) was the so-called "fashion" photo shoots that either happened serendipitously or by design in Hoi An and in Ha Noi.

I enjoyed these so much that I am seriously giving thought to dedicate a few days during in a forthcoming trip to Vietnam to such "fashion" shoots....fusing travel photography to ethnic fashion photography. The style can be posed...with static portraits, or can be pseudo environmental-street portraits such as the one above.

Ms Hiền Trang in Hoi An doorway. Photo © Tewfic El-Sawy-All Rights Reserved

It's a totally different change of pace. It takes a combination of various skills...some of which I have, and others that I still don't...but that are more or less easy to acquire. To really do a professional job, I'd need the support of models, local photographers (many such photographers are available in Da Nang, Hoi An and Ha Noi), as well as make-up artists....and finding a handful of attractive local dresses.

In Hoi An, I was fortunate to have had the generous support of the adorable Hiền Trang, and of professional photographer Minh Nhat Nguyen. I also stumbled on Mai Đoàn, who could provide the make-up support if required.

Scouting for attractive backdrops is not difficult in Hoi An. The little town is replete with those, including the interiors of the Chinese Assembly halls. Many stores have ancient fronts that offer superb backgrounds, along with mustard yellow textured walls for which the town is famous for.

Ms Hiền Trang in Fujian Assembly Hall. Photo © Tewfic El-Sawy-All Rights Reserved

If these thoughts come to fruition, I'd have to acquire the proper accessories such as reflectors and strobes, which I haven't used much before. However, these accessories would have to be minimal so as not to require photography permits, and to avoid red tape.

We scheduled a photo shoot with Hiền Trang at the Fujian Assembly Hall. This landmark was built around 1690 for the Chinese ethnic group from Fujian to socialise, but later it was transformed into a temple dedicated to the Fujian deity named Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea.

Source: Heritage (Vietnam Airlines Flight Magazine) 

The inspiration for Hiền Trang's photograph at the Fujian Assembly Hall was from images featured in Vietnam Airlines Flight Magazine. One of our group members, Maria Dikeos, spotted the resemblance in the setting, and suggested we held a photo shoot in that particular corner.

Another project to plan for, and to look forward to during 2015.

And yes. All these photographs were made with the new Fuji X-T1, and a Zeiss 12mm f2.8

America's Best Races

Awhile back I mentioned that Outside Magazine had selected their list of America's Best Races, pulled from suggestions from readers, and compiled to give you a full year of competitive events to set your sights on for yourself. There really is something for everyone here, even if I do still contend that an obvious choice was left off the list.

Now that the full list is online, along with a brief description of why it made the cut, you can have a look for yourself. Each of the races is now placed in chronological order, beginning with the Pole Pedal Paddle race in Jackson Wyoming on April 4 and ending with the American Birkebeiner in Cable, Wisconsin next February.

In between you have a dozen other races on foot, bike, and more, that will give nearly everyone the opportunity to get out and challenge themselves. Races are found all over the country and at various lengths, making one of these American classics accessible to more athletes.

All in all, it's a very good list, with a nice variety of challenges and disciplines. I wonder who will be the person to step up and run the Gauntlet trying to complete all of them.

Virgin Global Row Update: Olly Calls It Quits

Just starting to dig out on all the things that have been going on since I left, but I didn't notice that Olly Hicks, who was attempting to circumnavigate around Antarctica in a row boat has decided to abandon the attempt once he reaches New Zealand.

Olly made a post to his blog over at the Virgin Global Row website a few days back announcing the decision, which wasn't an easy one. Essentially it came down to the extremely slow progress he has seen since setting out 82 days ago. In that time, he has covered roughly 1600 nautical miles, but the distance to New Zealand is just 800nm. Considering the length of the journey ahead, Olly figures that it would take him 5 years to complete the row, far longer than he had expected or was prepared to commit.

The British adventurer blames his boat, dubbed the Flying Carrot, for the extremely slow going. He says that she tracks terribly in the wind, and anything over 20 knots in speed kills forward progress, even while using the oars. Considering the legendary winds of the Southern Ocean average more than that in speed, you can begin to see how frustrating this has been for Olly.

He now hopes to make landfall in NZ sometime in the next few weeks, and he says that the trip was not a total loss. He learned a lot and will take those lessons with him into his next endeavor, whatever that may be. Something tells me we haven't heard the last from Mr. Hicks however, and it won't be long before he's planning another expedition.

Get home safe Olly!

Saigon City night life - Visiting Saigon is a must

Vietnam, a place that has in its munititions stockpile abundant chances to guarantee that even the most requesting explorers can feel fulfilled, is honored with numerous must-see places. The city is known for a ton, however the energetic nightlife bails this spot emerge making visitors from the whole way across the globe run here to have a knowledge of a lifetime in only one night.

The excitement business in Saigon is developing quickly and the city gloats an incredible nightlife where individuals can search for simply quality fun. A few clubs, pubs and bars in the city are open throughout the night, which implies you can appreciate till your heart's substance. Saigon is splashed with pubs and bars of assorted types and reach, significance it has something to offer each individual. The locale territory is thought to be a focal spot to delight in HCMC's nightlife completely.

Bars where you can delight in Saigon 

An impeccable rest for laidback vacationers, the spot offers an astounding perspective of the Saigon River from an open patio, where you can delight in captivating stream movement, ships, and splendidly lit travels and more while tasting the incredible gathering of cool beverages the bar brings to the table.

Related post: travel Vietnam

The most astute and most astounding places in Saigon, it is on the 52nd story of Bitexco Financial Tower, a dominator of the horizon of this city. Beverages may appear to be little costlier, yet the perspective you can delight in is worth using each penny. You can discover here a decent choice of spirits, brewskie and mixed drinks and in addition to there's DJ on weekends.

It's for games mates, where even neighborhood heads to find terrifically vital donning occasions. The extensive screen Tvs here show Formula 1, Premier Football League and the NFL with a huge number of beverages that are simply incredible. The décor and climate of the spot is an alternate different gimmick, which will definitely keep you stuck here for quite a long time together.

Lavish 

This spot is perfect for individuals who adoration shaking a leg with the beats of music that is played on most modern music framework to guarantee the sound can make any spirit groove. The spot has couches upstairs to help the tired individuals unwind; likewise there is a clamoring outside bar and two arrangement regions where the music can even now be delighted in yet while unwinding.

Universal Tourist Club 

Arranged in the extension of Hotel New World, its an entrenched stimulation mind boggling in Saigon. Catwalk Club, Karaoke rooms with hey tech individual DJ music course of action, open parlor karaoke zone and a relax room are things that add to the fame of this club. The décor is essentially extraordinary with everything that is impeccable to delight in an incredible night out. There are expert vocalists and groups playing unrecorded music adding to the appeal of this spot much more.

The Observatory 

Since its commencement in 2011, the DJ at The Observatory has figured out how to make calm an impression for the society darlings in Saigon. The trendiest spot to appreciate nightlife in Saigon, the club is as often as possible went by music maestros. The move floor can some of the time get excessively hot, when you can simply slip into the gallery to revel in that flawless city breeze.

Nightlife in Saigon is not pretty much clubbing and setting off to the bar, the spot likewise has numerous clubs playing only traditional music for partners of this class, which can help any spirit escape totally. Likewise, for the individuals who wish to move till their heart's yearning there are resorts which offer such gatherings at times where you can delight in altogether and non-stop for a considerable length of time or even the full night together.

How the money adds up 

The spots where voyagers can delight in nightlife in Saigon are a lot of people, including everything from plan bars and clubs to the most extravagant ones. The beverages can here and there get unreasonable relying on the venue, so its encouraged to check previously dependably, to guarantee you do just what you planned, that is "revel in"!

Thus, when getting ready for your next Vietnam Holidays, verify you use an additional night in Saigon or HCMC to guarantee you have not missed something critical on the rundown of exercises in Vietna

Video of Record Breaking Kayak Drop

Remember that epic kayak drop I posted about yesterday? The one where paddler Pedro Oliva went over a 127-foot tall water fall in Brazil? Well now there is video of it, and it looks even crazier than it sounds. Check out the video below and try not to wet yourself.

Thanks for the vid GoBlog!

Updated: It appears that this isn't from the new record breaking drop set a few days back, but was instead of kayaker Ed Lucero making a big drop of 31 meters (101 feet) a few years back. The video for the drop made a few days ago, which is actually 25+ feet higher, should be out soon, but this one isn't a record any more.

ACROSS THE SKIES : MOUNTAIN FLIGHT TO THE EVEREST

Few things in life can enthrall as much as the thought of mountain flight to the highest peak of the world. During my maiden visit to Kathmandu in March 2016, I had the opportunity to board this 50 minutes odd flight to the top of the world. An overwhelming experience to say the least. The breathtaking panorama was spiced with a chance to visit the cockpit and a Window seat to soak in the majestic heights.

It for sure feels like ticking off an item from your bucket list and to put it straight in three words,

A lifetime experience !

Mountain Flight to Mount Everest - A lifetime experience

Sun Kissed Himalayan Range - Simply Amazing

Off and On Again !

But before that, let me share how the journey was off and on in matter of just two days.

As it happened I had to miss early morning flight to Mt. Everest as it was cancelled.

The Culprit - Weather. Fog to be precise.

But hoping against the hopes, I tried my luck, the very next day despite similar weather conditions as I woke in the morning. The glimmer of hope led to eventuality, as the rays of the sun criss-crossed the skies almost suddenly. The golden hue of the slanting rays covered the mountains, and there I was.

The visibility was just enough for the flight to take off after 3 hours of delay from the scheduled departure. There were last minute jitters as the airline staff were hooked to their transmitters and travellers to the sky for the final nod to go ahead.

And there it was, announcements that led to stamping of the Boarding Pass(held till this date as a souvenir) and we were even more excited to be :

On the way and above the Everest !!

Happy Souvenir - Boarding Pass for the Mountain Flight

Weather Report on the Announcement Screen - Nervous Wait

Golden Rays on the Everest - A Sight to Behold

Eclectic Airport :

The mountain flights operate from the domestic airport of Kathmandu, viz. the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport. The early morning sights of this airport is more of a flux of over-energetic foreign nationals and contrasting calm locals. There is some method to the madness here. One, the foreign nationals were either like me, the people taking one of the mountain flights or they were on their way to Lukla, the nearest airport to the Everest base camp. The locals were heading to Pokhara. That somehow explained the reason for the contrast.

The Airlines :

Several airlines operate mountain flights for Everest. I had taken a Buddha Air Mountain flight for this trip and indeed it was every bit worth it. Their customer handling, quality of information off and on air, and the views of the panorama during the flight were wonderful. (Every seat being a window seat in the 24 seater carrier.) However, the views were better from the seats at back because of the wings mid-way. Their safety records are also quite good, if not the best in the league. The refunds in case of cancellation are prompt and without hassle.

In the nutshell, I'd recommend the airline. 

Wings of Panorama

The Experience  : Journey is HEIGHT of Specialty:

Golden Array of Himalayan Cousins

The mountain flight goes around Everest and as close to it, as the weather permits.

1. The mountain flights passes through several of the top 15 mountain peaks (eight thousanders as they say) of the world. 
2. Apart from that, there are several glaciers and  landscapes that is sure to transport to a fairy tale dream like world.
3. There is an opportunity to visit the Cockpit from a distance, which is an amazing experience in itself.
4. Travel hostess was friendly and introduced us to the peaks that were passing by.
5. At the end of the flight, the travelers are given a certificate of completion. As a memoir, it was a nice idea.

Cockpit Adventure

Tips for YOUR Mountain flight:

1. Safety First: Generally all the carriers adhere to the basic safety norms. However, the reputed carriers have better aircraft and maintenance.
2. Weather the Weather. Yes, the weather is the most important factor beside the safety. The best season to travel is from September - December. Next Best: March - May (Generally post local 'Dushera' festival). The reason being the rains. With clear skies, as in the above seasons, the views would be the best. Remember how I ended up missing my flight.
3. Time it. The best views are on the offer in the first flight of the day. More to do with the dispersion of the sun rays. So the first morning flight is highly recommended. Check in Early to ensure that the first flight is not overbooked.
4. Have ample juice in the camera batteries: The views in the mountain flight are simply amazing. So make sure you have spare batteries to support videos. PS: The views are even better through the cockpit.
5. Air pressure all the way is well regulated, but it's always better to take general precautions.
6. Note: In case of poor visibility, domestic flights are given preference.
7. It's better to schedule taking mountain flights in the middle of your Kathmandu itinerary to allow cushion for some bad weather days (or rather not so good weather days). Many people miss it because of their last day attempt not having enough blessings from the weather gods.
8. The flight is priced in USD, and it generally varies from season to season. There are many booking counters across Kathmandu, particularly near the city center.
9. The best way  to book is through the counter on the airport, for efficient refunds, if need be.
10. Mountain flights are also available from Pokhara but to a different mountain range.

Sun and the Peaks - Great Symbiosis

The Bottomline: 

The mountain flight was truly highlight for my Nepal trip and I'd recommend it without hesitation. There aren't many mountain flights that I've heard of, globally. So although some people may find the pricing a bit steep, the experience is every bit worth it.

Panoramic Views of Himalayas

Panoramic Views of Himalayas

Disclosure - The mountain trip to Everest for the author was hosted by Buddha Air.   As usual, views above are bonafide, impartial and author's own.

Travel Tips for Sorrento, Italy

Of  what we had heard about Sorrento, we had planned a day trip from Naples to Sorrento, even before we had began our trip to Italy. When in Naples though we had to choose between Amalfi Coast and Sorrento or Capri Islands.

The weather decided for us. It was overcast, and most of the people advised us against taking a littoral trip. We did, and so gladly I say, we did. We had to stunt the Amalfi coast from the itinerary. Our excursion to Sorrento from Naples began from the port of Moro Beverello. After a sumptuous lunch, we took a Hydrofoil around noon and reached Sorrento in less than an hour.

Moro Beverello

The journey s a story itself. Snow crowned mountains, breezy sea, and a deck seat. Well we couldn't had much beyond. It was cold and a cup of coffee did wonders to our spirit. We stayed for an hour around the port and enjoyed and marveled its exquisite beauty.

Quaint Charm of Sorrento

There is a quiet charm about the place and the weather complimented that charm all the more. We climbed a top of steep stairs to reach the town and some of the views during our ascent were equally mesmerizing. The town had a piazza that had its characteristic statue, and a leading market street. We shopped a bit to realize that it turned out to be one of the cheaper of the Italian places. On our train trip in Circumvesuviana back to Napoli Centrali (read Naples), we met a bunch of Korean youngsters who had some zealous experiences of Amalfi Coast to share.

Clouds building along the sea

We enjoyed every bit of our stay at Sorrento!

Sorrento-Surreal Beauty!

PS:  Ideally a trip from Naples early morning could give you a chance to explore Amalfi Coast and Sorrento same day.

We hurriedly packed our baggage that night, as we had to leave for Florence next day.

Shop What

• Better places to shop for winter wear.
• Being Town, most of the things are comparatively cheaper.

Bottom Line 

• Sorrento can give make your trip to Italy really really special. Do visit it for sure. 
• My choice between Naples City and Sorrento would be with Sorrento. 
• Plan properly and you can easily cover Amalfi Coast in a Single day. These places are amazing!
• Capri Islands deserves at least a day trip.

Travel facts

• Stayed : One Day Trip from Naples.
• Stayed at : Hotel Ideal, Naples - No, not recommended.
• Traveled with my better half on a single Day trip 
• Traveled in Hydrofoil/Local Train from Naples in January 2013.