Bali Diaries 2017 – Days 1-3 – Beach Activities in Tanjung Benoa

Mar 23, 2017 | Indonesia, Travel Diaries

Returning to Bali for a 2017 adventure was nothing short of exhilarating. I had been counting down the days until I could return to paradise and explore new places in this stunning part of Indonesia. One of my first stops was at Tanjung Benoa. I had only heard it was near a famous beach, but as I arrived, I had no idea what to expect.

It’s safe to say that Tanjung Benoa exceeded my expectations and thrilled me with every moment I spent there. The moment I got there, I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. There were endless activities to choose from along the Bay, and I couldn’t wait to dive right in. It indeed was an excellent experience.

So let’s venture into another fun travel diaries edition as I take you on an adventure on the East coast of the Indonesian Island of God, where I stayed in a fine luxury hotel, did a few fun activities along the beach and enjoyed the streets of Tanjung Benoa in this, the first edition of Bali Diaries 2017.

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Escape to the beach and see a beautiful sunrise.

Bali Diaries 2017 – Days 1-3 – Beach Activities in Tanjung Benoa

Embark on an adventure in the paradise of Tanjung Benoa! Join us as we explore all this tropical island getaway can provide! Spend your first three days discovering what Bali offers – white-sand beaches, crystal blue waters perfect for snorkelling and sunsets that will take your breath away during your Beach Activities in Tanjung Benoa.

The best bit of Tanjung Benoa

The experience of parasailing in Tanjung Benoa was a first for me, and I have to say I loved every moment. I’ll admit that I was initially hesitant, but the friendly salesman persuaded me to take that leap of faith. Before I knew it, I was on the boat and up in the air, with a rope attached to a ship and a parasail to keep me hoisted.

If you can try parasailing in Tanjung Benoa, I highly recommend it – it’s an experience like no other! As someone who was not always comfortable with heights, the view on top of the ocean overlooking Tanjung Benoa and the Bay was breathtaking. I felt like I was on top of the world, and at that moment, I never wanted to come down.

Getting high in the blue sky in Tanjung Benoa.

Where I stayed in Tanjung Benoa

I was lucky enough to experience the beauty of The Sakala Resort during a sponsored trip, and I must say, it was an unforgettable stay. The spacious rooms, with their stunning views, provided the ultimate relaxation after a long day of exploring. The resort offers a true paradise in the tropics and is the perfect destination for a luxurious getaway.

However, the highlight of my stay was the large and spacious swimming pools perfect for a quick dip or a full day of lounging under the sun. And the dining options? The Sakala restaurant, situated by The Sakala Beach Club overlooking the Bay, offered some of the best cuisines I’ve ever tasted. Truly outstanding.

The whole design throughout the resort is breathtaking, with each area providing a unique and memorable experience. I can certainly say that The Sakala Resort is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious 5-star experience.

The Sakala Resort is a stunning resort in the paradise of Bali.

The Major Highlights of Bali Diaries- Beach Activities in Tanjung Benoa

– Jet skiing:

The rush of adrenaline that comes with trying new things is irresistible. I had already conquered parasailing, but that wasn’t enough for me. I wanted a more heart-pumping adventure, so I gave Jet Skiing a go. As I approached the crowded beach, my nerves began to set in. But, with an experienced instructor by my side, I felt reassured.

I revved up the throttle, and the ski skimmed across the water at lightning speed, giving me an intense thrill ride. My heart raced, and the hairs on my neck stood on end as I felt the wind in my face and the spray of the salty ocean water. No wonder they call it a thrill ride! It wasn’t until we hit the Bay’s open waters that I felt alive.

Getting a little Jet ski action.

– Exploring the streets of Tanjung Benoa:

While it may not have the frantic pace and commotion of some of the more bustling areas in Bali, Tanjung Benoa has a charm all its own. This little gem boasts a lively street home to various boutique markets, restaurants, and bars. And for those looking to indulge in pampering, many massage parlours offer services for a fraction of the usual price. But it’s once you hit the beach that the genuine excitement begins.

Surrounded by the stunning blue waters of the ocean, the beach truly comes alive as tourists and locals alike frolic in the sand and surf. And to top it all off, there’s even a Starbucks for those who need their caffeine fix. So be sure to take your time strolling the streets of Tanjung Benoa, soak in the sights, and don’t be afraid to say hello to the friendly locals. Just be sure to politely decline when asked for a taxi ride – after all, there’s plenty of fun to explore on foot.

With our first round in Bali’s Tanjung Benoa finished, it’s safe to say that this cozy corner of the island has a unique balance between stillness and vibrant energy. From its stunning coastline views to quiet fishing villages, we’ve been thoroughly enchanted by this part of paradise!

You can check out the second edition, where I visit the Cultural City of Ubud.

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Say Hi to the locals in Bali.

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Vietnam Diaries: Days 13-14 – The Conclusion

Jan 28, 2017 | Travel Diaries, Vietnam

It has come to an end, the conclusion to my first Vietnam trip. An exhaustive, crazy and stressful trip all rolled into one. At the end of the day it was a fulfilling trip that will stick in my memory bank and for the right reasons. Vietnam, at least the Southern part was interesting to say the least. The hustle and bustle, the chaos, the shoving, the pushing and then try crossing a bloody road. Good luck with that. When I speak of such scenes naturally I’m referring to Ho Chi Minh City. Did I enjoy Vietnam? Yes of course. I always make the most out of my adventures. Perhaps not my favorite travel destination, however it is still a destination I’m glad I visited and there is still so much more of this great country I want to see in time. Let’s get into the highlights of day 13-14. The conclusion of Ho chi Minh City.

The Conclusion: The last look at Ho Chi Minh City.

Best bit Bitexco Financial Building As soon as you get off the express elevator to the 49^th floor of the Bitexco Financial Building, you are struck with the mesmerising view of Ho Chi Minh City, as far as the eye can see. I was fortunate enough to go on a clear day, without a cloud in sight as I circled the 49h floor on several occasions, getting a 360 view of an amazing city full of life, colour and chaos. The city may have a bit of work to do, but it’s on the rise and rapidly. For the cost of about $12AUD, you can see the work in progress from above. A must see.

View from the Bitexco Financial Building

Bitexco Financial Building

Highlights of day 13-14 Last day means getting is as much as possible and to get in any attraction that I have not seen in Ho Chi Minh City. Pearl Plaza Pearl Plaza in the Binh Thanh District is great to spend a couple of hours away from the heat. Not the largest centre in the city but it’s pretty and boutique. Plenty of great shopping with brand outlet shops, a supermarket, amazing food court and cinemas. Luxury apartments are situated above the centre.

Pearl Plaza in the distance

The next locations I speak are all within an ear shot of each other and is great way to spend a day out in the city. Saigon Centre The best shopping mall in Saigon. The centre is full of fabulous retail brand stores, café’s and a top-class cinema. Amazing in its interior design, with a fantastic modern touch, The Saigon Centre is a must see whether you are in the mood for a bit of retail therapy or not. The Saigon Centre food court is the best I have ever seen. In fact, you probably couldn’t call it a food court, it’s a level full of top class restaurants that has cuisines form all over the world, Japan, Korean, America, you name it. Get there and dine in style, but be prepared to pay a little more for your food than usual.

Inside the amazing Saigon Centre.

Opera House The Opera House is another French pioneered building, which like other buildings in Saigon is simply beautiful. Built in 1897, at a similar time to the Cathedral and the old Post office. The opera house is certainly worth your time if passing by the area. Especially if you are into lovely architectured buildings.

Saigon Opera House

Nguyen Hue Walking street Named after an emperor of the late 1700’s, The Nguyen Hue walking street is epic in its colour and design, and a great way to walk in freedom away from the nearby traffic. Unfortunately for me most of the strip was closed due to preparations for the Tet New Year. That was only bad luck for me, but put it on your list if in Ho Chi Minh City.

Nguyen Hue Street

Ben Thanh Street Food Market Time to doge bikes and other commuters again. The street markets which is close by to the Bitexco Financial Building, is stacked with food stalls, fresh produce and seafood. It is a crazy atmosphere but worth your time to see the locals at work. It’s great if you want a feed at a ridiculously low price.

Already for the Tet new year.

That’s a wrap the conclusion to my Vietnam Diaries. It was a unique trip but one I am glad I did to witness a different city and different cultures. It is why I live for travelling. Check out GPSmyCity for further Ho Chi Minh reading! For a detailed reaction on I what my feelings were towards the country can be read in the I didn’t fall in love with you Vietnam, but I like you a lot.

Vietnam Diaries: Days 10 – 12 – Tunnels, Rooftop Bars and Relaxation

Jan 22, 2017 | Travel Diaries, Vietnam

A return to Ho Chi Minh City after a few beautiful days in cooler Dalat. The excitement well and truly kicked off again, with tunnels, rooftop bars and a little bit relaxation the priority. It’s Vietnam Diaries days 10-12 as the trip is slowly starting to wind down.

Ho Chi Minh City at its very best.

Best bit

Cu chi tunnel

A tour group to the Cu-chi Tunnels and another brief education into the fascinating history lesson of Vietnam and how they battled and survived in the war. If you are ever in Ho Chi Minh City, do yourself a favor book a spot on the tour bus and head to Cu-Chi Tunnels. While the time at the tunnels is short, you will leave with a lasting memory.

Through the tunnels we go at Cu Chi tunnels.

The Viet Cong were smart and very strategic in war, to learn about their underground system was astounding. Three levels of tunnels that ran for hundreds of kilometres with three different levels, the lowest level being a good 8-10 metres deep below the surface.

It gets quite cluster phobic in the dark tunnels.

A hard slog through the tunnels.

The Vietnamese set some gruesome traps too, set up to capture and kill enemy soldiers. While clever little traps, it was hard to ponder at those traps with imaging the terrible pain it would have caused the young soldiers. But that was cruel fate of any war.

The traps of Vietnam War.

Highlights of days 10 -12

I am Vietnam hotel and Rooftop Bar

Sad to say this was my first time visiting a Rooftop bar in Vietnam and I had been missing out in a big way. Gorgeous night time views of Ho Chi Minh City with the city looking spectacular under lights. The occasion was even better with a cocktail in hand as you enjoy the great views and romantic setting with the love of your life.

A rooftop bar are a smash in Vietnam.

New Airbnb apartment

A return to Ho Chi Minh City and our 3^rd Apartment for the trip. For the second time, we used airbnb and it was the best of the lot. An apartment with spacious rooms, large beds, small kitchen, good shower, daily housekeeping and a free laundry service. No complaints all round, as this time we were in the lively Binh Thanh District.

Our latest Airbnb apartment.

Binh Quoi Tourist village

A short 20-minute walk from our apartment is the tourist village. My kind of place to chill and relax and feel like you are staying in a tropical resort. Lots of palm trees, quiet drinking area overlooking the lake, swimming pool and a care free walk in Paradise. A visit to the Tourist Village is highly recommended, especially if you are after a little relaxation in style.

Tourist village looking good for relaxation.

The Lily Pads of the Tourist Village.

Emperor Jade Pagoda

One of those if you’re in the area, come for a visit. Nice temple (they all are), built by the Chinese community in 1909. It is hidden off the main street as walked past it trying to find and I know I am not the only one. Come for a photo or two if in Mai Thi Luu street of district one and perhaps stop for a prayer for good health.

Emperor jade Pagoda

Read about the Previous diaries by clicking on the link Days 8-9

Vietnam Diaries: Days 8-9 – Exploring in and around Dalat

Jan 18, 2017 | Travel Diaries, Vietnam

Exploring around Dalat and seeing as much as possible in my short time in this beautiful town was high on the priority list for the last days. With only four full days in the area seeing everything was always going to be impossible. So come days 8 and 9, it was full throttle as we rushed around to as many locations in and around Dalat as possible.

Prenn Waterfall

A word or two on Dalat before I wrap up my diaries in this amazing city. If you are ever in Vietnam, be sure to put Dalat on the list. It’s a great city full of amazing landscapes, water features and buildings. For me four days is certainly not enough but heck I will take it and I am certainly glad I visited.

Now to the highlights of days 8 and 9 of Vietnam Diaries.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda

Best Bits of the day

Day 8 – Dalat star – A village made of clay, Dalat Star is about 20-minutes from the city centre. To wander through the maze of sculptures and housing is a sight to behold. A good hour is all that you will spend but you will be glad you made the trip through windy roads as it is truly unique design and artwork put into this truly remarkable place will leave a lasting effect.

Dalat Star

Day 9 – The crazy house – The architecture around the Crazy House is fascinating. Designed by one lady who took 14-years to design what can only be called a masterpiece and the end result is nothing short of sensational. The initial thought before coming to the crazy house if you haven’t seen any pictures prior is, it’s just a hotel. Upon arriving you realise any such thoughts are plain crazy (pardon the pun). While an hour is all you need and perhaps a coffee in the café, you will be caught stunned at this crazy and quirky hotel.

The Crazy House, Dalat

Climbing up the steps and reaching great heights as you go through skinny obstacles and dodge other tourists. Each structure is different and quite odd. You couldn’t even give a name to any of sculptures that you are starring at, except for the fact that it would be perfect for a Halloween party. I guess that’s why the Crazy House was named the top 3 most unique hotels in the world and here it is in the middle of Vietnam.

Chasing the Waterfalls

Dalat has a lot of waterfalls, I did not have time to visit them all as some are a bit of a drive away. A couple of waterfalls to visit that I didn’t see are the Pongour and Datanla Waterfalls. Let’s discuss the falls I did see.

Elephant Waterfall – Driving through incredible terrain to get to this waterfall, about forty-five-minutes South West of Dalat town centre. The Elephant Waterfall, which got its name from a rock resembling an elephant, will truly amaze you as the fresh water flows freely creating a picturesque view that your camera will appreciate.

Elephant Waterfall

Once you enter after you drive through the Nam Ban Village, pay a small fee and from the carpark it is a short hike through slippery terrain (wear good footing). From there you will get all sorts of angles and views of the fall.

Elephant Waterfall is one of the many waterfalls in and around Dalat.

Prenn Waterfall – Unlike the Elephant Water, the attraction here is much more than a waterfall, which is fabulous in itself. While most of the attention will be on the falls and the unbelievable path that will take you directly under the fall as you feel splashes of water rain onto you.

Prenn Waterfall

There is plenty of other activities to do at Prenn. Take a brisk walk through some gardens, amusements for the kids and a cable car over the falls. Also available is the unethical elephant and ostrich riding, at an extra cost, but I never choose to participate, it never seems right especially seeing the elephants in chains and all for human pleasure.

Prenn Waterfall

Highlights of Days 8 and 9

Linh Phuoc Pagoda – Not too far from the city-centre, too long to walk but a short taxi ride. Linh Phuoc Pagoda is a must visit, especially since it is free of charge. The Pagoda, a Buddhist temple, made from broken glass and smashed up pottery, is brilliantly designed and a treat to gaze upon. Go inside one the man temple halls, have prayer and spend a minute wondering if monks praying are real or not. Or perhaps that is just me.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda

Weasel Coffee Plantation – The story of the Weasel coffee beans is made is fascinating story. The Weasel eats the coffee bean, it goes through their system undigested, with the acid from the stomach giving it its distinct flavour. So yes, the coffee beans come from the droppings of a weasel.

Weasel Coffee Plantation

It may sound disgusting but for coffee lovers this place is a must visit. You can see the process happening the coffee beans drying out and the weasels having a nap. Of course, there is the taste tasting it cost a small fee and I have got to be honest with you as a mad coffee fan, I loved it.

The coffee beans before the Weasels get to them.

Cricket farm – A bit of honesty here, unless you are visiting this place as part of a tour, which you usually are if visiting the Elephant Waterfall. There is not much to see here unless you love seeing cricket’s bounce around in a dark room or perhaps have a snack on a crispy dried cricket. Otherwise, move right on. There is plenty more to do around Dalat.

Check out GPSmyCity and explore Dalat a little more!

That’s a lot of crickets.

At the Crazy House.

Dalat Star

Read days 7 diaries in Vietnam right here and see plenty more around Dalat.

Read about Vietnam Diaries days 10 -12 right here.

Vietnam Diaries: Day 7 – A Stroll through Da Lat

Jan 18, 2017 | Travel Diaries, Vietnam

A stroll through Da Lat was the order of things on Day seven, as we began to spread our wings and explore this amazing city. Beautiful scenery, amazing landscapes and a little less chaos than in [easyazon_link identifier=”1520422989″ locale=”US” tag=”fdt0c-20″]Ho Chi Minh City[/easyazon_link]. Da Lat is a city that truly amazes. Let’s take a look at this edition of travel diaries, Vietnam style.

A stroll through Dalat.

Best bit of the day

Xuan Huong Lake: This picturesque lake is a mesmerising 5km walk with beautiful gardens, horse and carriage and waterfront cafes that surround the lake. The Bich Cau Garden, is on an island on the east end of the lake, that has amazing garden landscapes and also a nice cafe with amazing views. You can also enjoy a ride on the pedal boats at a couple of separate locations around the lake. We did, even if the old legs got a bit stiff.

A pedal on Xuan Huong Lake.

A waterfront cafe on the lake.

Best food

Poc Poc: Another grill at a much more well-known and central restaurant. This time the spontaneity came out. For the first time my wife and tried the deer and boar on a grill. You must thin we are huge meat eaters, we are not. But being in Vietnam and finding new foods unfamiliar in Australia has got us both exploring different food.

Grilled deer and boar at Poc Poc

Highlights of the day

A stroll in Dalat: Our stay in Dalat is so short that time couldn’t afforded to be lost. Leaving the Nguyen Minh Hotel by foot, a little after breakfast, the family and I went out for a stroll in Dalat. By foot I is always the best way to learn a thing or two about a destination. You slow down your travel and you find all those hidden secrets.

The Dalat Cathedral.

This was the case on this occasion, passing through beautiful buildings, The Dalat Cathedral, down to the Xuan Huong Lake and continuing our path around the lake until we stopped at the lovely Bich Cau Gardens for a coffee. Before making our way to the Dalat Garden Centre.

Bich Cau gardens and cafe.

After making our back and this time through the town centre, we had been on a stroll through the city for seven hours. A tough task for two young boys who handled themselves admirably. A much-needed rest was the only option once back in the hotel.

Admiring the view.

Dalat flower centre: A beautiful stroll amongst a lovely garden centre. Amazing colour, decorative bushes especially the bonsai and picturesque views high above of this amazing garden from the top of the hill on the east side. Put it on your list if ever in Dalat, it cost very little and it is a nice little spot to enjoy a coffee or have a bite to eat amongst nature.

Dalat Garden Centre.

A stroll through Da Lat and see this stunning Cathedral

Want to have a stroll through Da Lat, check out hotels on TripAdvisor

Check out day 6 of Vietnam Diaries – Welcome To Da Lat.
Check out days 8/9 of Vietnam Diaries – Exploring Da Lat.

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Vietnam Diaries: Day 6 – Welcome to Da Lat

Jan 16, 2017 | Travel Diaries, Vietnam

Spending the first few days in crazy Ho Chi Minh City, it was a pleasant relief to land in beautiful Da Lat. That’s right, welcome to Da Lat where the greener pastures, quieter roads, cooler weather and stunning landscapes make up this small city tucked away in the middle of the mountains of central Vietnam.

Straight off the bat, when I say quieter roads, it’s still quite busy in the town centre with a steady flow of traffic, but compared to the big city chaos in the South, it’s like walking into an abandoned village.

Dalet, Vietnam

Best bit of the day

Welcome to Da Lat: About twenty-degrees, tame humidity and a little rain, gave us a cool welcome on arrival in Da Lat. Pure relief. Straightaway you are captivated by its amazing scenery with a much cleaner smell in the air. Large mountains can be seen wherever you look and how beautiful it is to see so much green.

The town centre has unique difference. With soaring apartments suturing the town. Almost a European look. It is still busy and you need to watch your step as you cross the road, but not nearly the same rush as in Saigon.

Arriving at Dalat Airport.

The view from Nguyen Minh Hotel.

Best foods

Pho Nuong – This restaurant was found by chance down a side alley street, sometimes those hidden restaurants make for great eating. On this occasion it was no different. We enjoyed the sliced beef and pig stomach on a charcoal grill we cooked ourselves. It was the first time I tried the pig stomach and fair to say with its crispy taste that it didn’t let down.

Highlights of the day

Dalat Night Market: Good old google came to the rescue on this occasion. Arriving in Dalat we were unsure what to do. With the markets about to open at 5pm, it was a good chance to check it out.

The markets are not too different to those in Saigon, crowded and a lot of cheap stuff that is a real bargain for a tourist. The Dalat Markets has all the basics that come with a market, fruit and veg section, butchers, food court and clothing. the atmosphere is buzzing in the evening and it is a great way to enjoy the nightlife of Dalat.

Dalat Markets.

Welcome to Da Lat where everyone is keen to make a buck.

Lien Hoa Bakery: It may seem strange to get excited about a bakery, but this one was quite incredible. A large range of bread, savouries, pastries, sweets and magnificent looking cakes. It was quite like a bakery I had never seen before and everyone seemed to agree, it was rather packed out. Grab yourself a tray and some tongs at the entrance and go nuts selecting a variety of breads. Lien Hoa bakery will get more than one visit.

Check out GPSmyCity for further details on Dalat in Vietnam!