Discover the enchanting beauty and thrilling experiences of Da Lat, Vietnam, through the eyes of a French tourist. From scaling mountains to encountering wildlife and exploring sacred sites, this traveler's tale is a testament to the allure of Da Lat's natural and cultural wonders. Whether you're an avid hiker or a leisurely sightseer, Da Lat offers a refreshing escape with its cool climate and diverse activities. Join us as we delve into an unforgettable journey that combines physical challenges, spiritual encounters, and the simple joy of connecting with nature.
Embarking on an adventure in Da Lat, a French tourist recounts his extraordinary experience with a mix of humor and awe. The journey began with an "easy" trek organized by Groovy Gekko Tours, a local outdoor adventure company conveniently located next to the tourist's hotel. The ascent was anything but easy, involving a steep climb up the mountain, relying on tree roots and pine needles for traction. The guide, Thanh, along with the tourist's companion Joseph, provided support, but the tourist impressively completed the climb using his own strength.
At the summit, the group was rewarded with a breathtaking view of Paradise Lake. They even had their photo taken by a Buddhist monk who kindly paused his meditation to capture the moment. The descent presented a new challenge, steeper than the ascent, leading the tourist to humorously consider becoming a permanent fixture on the mountain. However, Thanh ingeniously repurposed a plastic tarp intended for lunch seating into a makeshift sled, creating a novel sport—mountain butt sledding—which made the descent much quicker and added an unexpected thrill to the adventure.
Thanh, the guide, is a recent college graduate who has been leading tours for two years. A Da Lat native, he speaks English and Russian, the latter learned in college despite his grandfather's warnings of its difficulty—a possible case of reverse psychology. Thanh's knowledge and skills greatly enhanced the trekking experience.
Before the mountain trek, the tourist visited a local pineapple and coffee farm, tasting coffee berries for the first time. Post-descent, the group enjoyed lunch by Paradise Lake, surrounded by a diverse array of flowering plants and butterflies. A boat ride across the lake with a group of merry fishermen added a touch of local color to the day, complete with belly rubs and near-capsizing incidents.
The day's final challenge was a 222-step climb to the largest Buddhist temple in southern Vietnam, home to around 250 monks and nuns. The tourist listened to a lecture by the head monk, whose tranquil voice provided a soothing end to an exhilarating day. Only afterward did the tourist discover the aerial tram that offers an effortless journey to the temple, a detail that might have been appreciated earlier.
After visiting the temple, the tourist returned to the hotel, refreshed, and explored more of Da Lat, including the Crazy House, a well-known architectural wonder. Reflecting on the day's adventures, the tourist compared the experience to a previous mountain climb in China and contemplated the possibility of future treks.
While the tourist suggests that Da Lat's "sights" may not be for everyone, the surrounding countryside's beauty is undeniable. For those interested in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or motorcycling, Da Lat is an ideal destination. Rental services are available for those wishing to explore the terrain independently or venture back to Saigon.
The tourist discovered Activetravelvietnam, a website offering adventure tours, and expressed enthusiasm for a kayaking tour in Ha Long Bay. The next day's plans included a visit to a district in Saigon known for its monkey population, an opportunity the tourist was eager to seize.
For more information on adventure tours in Vietnam, visit:
Da Lat is a treasure trove of experiences for the adventurous traveler. From the physical demands of mountain trekking to the serene beauty of Buddhist temples and the quirky charm of local wildlife, this French tourist's journey is a testament to the city's diverse appeal. Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled activities or peaceful retreats, Da Lat promises an adventure that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
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