Exploring the Coffee Capital of Vietnam: Buon Ma Thuot Adventure

Embracing the Heart of Buon Ma Thuot

As our journey through Buon Ma Thuot nears its end, I find myself reflecting on the incredible blend of nature and culture this city offers. Today was a day of contrasts, from the peaceful embrace of a botanical garden to the lively pulse of the city square. It’s amazing how much you can experience in a single day, and I’m eager to share every moment with you.

The November air in Buon Ma Thuot is quite pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 23°C. Perfect for a day of exploration! Mei and I started our day with a delightful breakfast at Chef's Table. This restaurant is known for its Italian cuisine, which might seem out of place in Vietnam, but it was a welcome change and the food was delicious. It’s always interesting to find unexpected culinary gems when traveling.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Chef's Table in Buôn Ma Thuột - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

Serepok Garden - A Tranquil Escape

Our first stop was Serepok Garden, a serene eco-tourism spot just outside the city. The gardens were lush and vibrant, a perfect contrast to the urban environment we'd been exploring. Wandering through the well-maintained paths, we were surrounded by a variety of local flora, each labeled with informative signs in Vietnamese and English. It was a calming experience, a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate the biodiversity of the Central Highlands. I took the time to practice my photography, trying to capture the vibrant colors and unique textures of the plants. I am hoping some of the pictures turn out well, as I would love to add them to my portfolio back in Zurich. It was a welcome change of pace after our more adventurous excursions to waterfalls and coffee plantations.


Explore the beauty of Serepok Garden, an eco-tourism gem in Dak Lak, Vietnam, blending nature, culture, and adventure for an unforgettable experience.

The beauty of a place often lies not just in its grand landmarks, but in the quiet corners where nature whispers its secrets.

As we strolled through Serepok Garden, I couldn't help but think about how much Wei would have enjoyed this place. He loves exploring gardens and discovering new plants. Maybe next time, I will bring my family here. It is important to take time to appreciate the simple things in life, like a peaceful walk in a beautiful garden. It reminds me of the botanical gardens back in Zurich, though the flora here is distinctly Vietnamese.

Lunch at Quán Cơm Phụng

For lunch, we decided to try a local eatery called Quán Cơm Phụng. It’s always a great experience to immerse ourselves in the local culinary scene, and this place didn't disappoint. The restaurant was simple but clean, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including cơm gà (chicken rice) and canh chua (sour soup). The food was fresh, flavorful, and incredibly affordable. It was a genuine taste of Vietnamese home cooking, and I savored every bite. I am definitely going to try to recreate some of these dishes when I get back to Zurich.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Quán Cơm Phụng in Buôn Ma Thuột - a charming bistro and hawker stall perfect for food lovers.

Buon Ma Thuot Square - The Heart of the City

In the afternoon, we ventured into the heart of the city to visit Buon Ma Thuot Square. This bustling public space is a hub of activity, a place where locals gather to socialize, exercise, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The square was adorned with colorful flower displays and impressive statues, creating a lively and welcoming environment. There was a palpable energy in the air, a sense of community that was truly infectious. I am pretty sure I saw some kids flying kites, others were playing traditional games. It felt like a scene from a movie, a snapshot of everyday life in Vietnam.


Explore Buon Ma Thuot Square, a vibrant park in Dak Lak, Vietnam, where culture, nature, and community blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.

As we walked around the square, we noticed a small stage being set up for an evening performance. It seemed like there was some kind of local event taking place. I love stumbling upon these unexpected cultural experiences, as they offer a unique glimpse into the traditions and customs of the area. I am glad we got to witness it.

Dinner at Ẩm thực hồ câu Bạn Tôi

For dinner, we chose Ẩm thực hồ câu Bạn Tôi, a restaurant known for its local specialties. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm. We ordered some regional dishes, including grilled fish and a selection of fresh vegetables. The flavors were bold and authentic, a true reflection of the local cuisine. I especially enjoyed the grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Ẩm thực hồ câu Bạn Tôi, where every dish tells a story and nature enhances your dining experience.

Nightlife at 47 Club

To cap off the evening, my friends and I decided to experience Buon Ma Thuot's nightlife at 47 Club. It's a popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and trendy vibe. The club was packed with locals and tourists alike, all eager to dance the night away. The music was a mix of Vietnamese and international hits, and the energy was infectious. I am not much of a dancer, but I couldn't resist joining in the fun. It was a memorable way to celebrate our last night in Buon Ma Thuot. The club is known for playing Vinahouse music and on Saturdays, they have live performances.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at 47 Club in Buôn Ma Thuột - a must-visit bar for cocktails, music, and unforgettable fun.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Buon Ma Thuot. From the tranquil gardens to the bustling city square, every moment has been a treasure. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings as we prepare to leave this incredible city. We plan to visit Bao Dai's Palace and the House exiled Ban Me Thuot. It's hard to believe our journey is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime. I should probably start planning my next adventure soon.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip. We will be visiting Bao Dai's Palace and the House Exiled Ban Me Thuot. After that, we have a lunch planned at Rosemary kitchen and a farewell dinner at Thịt Trâu Vi Tiếp. Before heading to the airport, we plan on doing some last-minute souvenir shopping at GO! Buôn Ma Thuật. Looking forward to sharing those last moments with you all!