Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang: A Vietnamese Adventure

A Fond Farewell

As our Vietnamese adventure in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. Today was all about savoring the last moments, from the delightful vegan cuisine to the vibrant local nightlife. It’s amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, even when you’re thousands of miles away.


Explore Phong Nha Ke Bang, Vietnam's breathtaking national park known for its stunning caves, rich biodiversity, and picturesque landscapes.

Our final day in Phong Nha began with a hearty breakfast at the Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant. Lena and I were eager to try more of their plant-based offerings, and we weren't disappointed. I opted for a flavorful lemongrass chili mushroom dish, while Lena enjoyed the braised tofu. The restaurant's friendly staff and the serene view of the river made it a perfect start to the day. It’s funny, I never thought I’d be seeking out vegan food in Vietnam, but this place has truly won me over. It reminds me a bit of the vegan places back in Berlin, but with a unique Vietnamese twist.


Discover delicious vegan cuisine at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant - where local flavors meet healthy eating in beautiful Quang Binh Province.

After breakfast, we took a leisurely stroll through Phong Nha. The town was bustling with activity, locals preparing for the weekend and tourists getting ready for their own adventures. The weather in November is quite pleasant, with warm temperatures and a gentle breeze. Perfect for exploring the outdoors. It's a far cry from the chilly autumn we left behind in Berlin.

For lunch, we decided to try The Rice House, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and vegetarian options. I had the tomato tofu, and Lena chose the tofu and eggplant claypot. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful, and the use of fresh, local ingredients was evident. It's these simple, authentic meals that I'll remember most about our time in Vietnam. I am going to try to recreate the tomato tofu dish back home.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at The Rice House in Phong Nha - a culinary haven surrounded by breathtaking nature.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

In the afternoon, we revisited some of our favorite spots in the park. We drove along the Ho Chi Minh Highway, stopping to take photos of the stunning karst landscapes. The dramatic cliffs and lush greenery never cease to amaze me. We even considered a quick swim in one of the park's natural swimming spots, but decided to save that for another trip.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant for our final dinner in Phong Nha. This place came highly recommended, and we were excited to experience its unique atmosphere. I ordered a local beer, while Lena tried a Vietnamese cocktail. The pub was lively, with a mix of locals and tourists all enjoying the evening. It was a great way to soak in the local culture and celebrate our last night.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant in Quang Binh, Vietnam.

The Jungle Boss Pub had a charm that reminded me of some of the pubs back in Havlíčkův Brod, Czechia, where I grew up. It's that sense of community and shared stories that makes a place special. We chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing our experiences and travel tips. I even met a fellow photographer who was equally passionate about capturing the beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang. It's moments like these that make traveling so rewarding.

For dinner, we opted for traditional Vietnamese dishes. I tried the Bun Cha, a Hanoian specialty, while Lena had the Cao Lau, a dish from Hoi An. Both were delicious, and the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Vietnam. The Jungle Boss Pub also had live music, which added to the festive atmosphere. It was a memorable evening, filled with laughter, good food, and great company.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took one last walk through Phong Nha. The town was quiet, the only sounds being the gentle hum of crickets and the distant murmur of conversations. I paused for a moment, taking it all in. The sights, the sounds, the smells – all of it will forever be etched in my memory.

As I reflect on our time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, I am filled with gratitude. This trip has been an incredible adventure, a chance to explore a unique and beautiful part of the world. From the stunning caves to the lush landscapes, from the delicious food to the warm and welcoming people, Phong Nha has exceeded all of my expectations.

I am especially grateful to have shared this experience with Lena. Her enthusiasm and adventurous spirit have made this trip even more special. We've created memories that will last a lifetime, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us in the future.

And while our time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang has come to an end, our journey continues. Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin, filled with stories and photographs to share. I'm already looking forward to planning our next adventure, perhaps somewhere closer to home, like hiking in the Harz Mountains. But for now, I'll cherish the memories we've made in this magical place.

As we prepare to leave, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. We came, we saw, we explored. And most importantly, we connected with a new culture and a new part of ourselves. Until next time, Phong Nha!

Son Doong Restaurant was our last stop for a nightcap. The cozy cabins and tranquil setting were ideal for reflecting on our trip. We enjoyed some local tea and shared our favorite memories from the past two weeks. It was a peaceful end to an action-packed adventure.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Son Doong Restaurant in Phong Nha – where every meal is a journey into local culinary delights.