Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang with Friends

Valley of Jade: A Day of Serenity in Phong Nha

Today was all about embracing the natural beauty and local culture of Phong Nha. After several days of intense cave explorations, it felt wonderful to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of this enchanting region. The day unfolded with a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, delectable food, and the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant. I'm not a strict vegan, but I always enjoy trying plant-based cuisine, especially when traveling. The restaurant was cozy, and the menu offered a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for a bowl of pho chay, a flavorful vegan noodle soup, while my friends enjoyed some delicious spring rolls. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I must admit, I've been pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to find vegan options here in Vietnam. Even Hans would be impressed!

With our bellies full, we set off to explore HaVa Valley - Thung Lũng Ngọc Bích. Located about 75 kilometers from Phong Nha town, the valley is nestled within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The drive itself was an adventure, as we wound our way through picturesque landscapes of towering limestone mountains and lush green forests. It was easy to see why this area is often referred to as the emerald of nature.


Experience the enchanting beauty of HaVa Valley – Thung Lũng Ngọc Bích, a serene escape in Quảng Bình, Vietnam, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Upon arriving at HaVa Valley, we were immediately captivated by its serene beauty. The valley is a symphony of emerald-green waters, towering cliffs, and natural stone formations. The Chay River meanders through the valley, its crystal-clear water inviting us to take a dip. We spent the morning kayaking along the river, marveling at the stunning scenery that surrounded us. The sun was shining, the air was fresh, and the only sounds were the gentle lapping of the water against our kayaks and the chirping of birds in the distance. It was pure bliss.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, surrounded by nature's untouched beauty.

After our kayaking adventure, we decided to cool off with a refreshing swim in the Chay River. The water was cool and invigorating, and we spent a good hour splashing around and enjoying the natural beauty of the valley. Some of us even tried the zipline that plunges into the water, which was an exhilarating experience. I felt like a kid again, laughing and playing with my friends in the cool, clear water. It was exactly the kind of carefree fun I needed to recharge my batteries.

For lunch, we headed to The Rice House, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including the tofu and eggplant claypot, which was super flavorful and tender. We also tried the tomato tofu, which was delicious, and some fresh spring rolls. Every dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored each bite while enjoying the company of our friends. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back home to Berlin. Hans and Sophie would love them!


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to do some souvenir shopping at Đặc sản, cafe Hương Rừng. This charming shop offered a variety of local products, including coffee, tea, and traditional handicrafts. I picked up a few bags of Vietnamese coffee to bring back home to Hans, who is a coffee aficionado. I also bought a beautiful hand-embroidered scarf for Sophie, who loves anything colorful and unique. The shop also had a selection of local wines and spirits, but I decided to pass on those, as I knew I wouldn't be able to fit them in my luggage.


Explore unique gifts and local delicacies at Đặc sản, Cafe Hương Rừng in Bố Trạch District, Quang Binh Province.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3 for dinner. This seafood restaurant is located in Nha Trang, but I assume the Phong Nha establishment has a similar menu. We indulged in a feast of fresh seafood, including grilled fish, prawns, and squid. The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and we savored every bite while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The restaurant had a lively and festive atmosphere, and we felt like we were truly immersed in the local culture.


Experience the freshest seafood in Nha Trang at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3 - where tradition meets taste!

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights of the town. We stopped at a local bar for a nightcap, where we shared stories and laughter while reminiscing about our adventures in Phong Nha. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bờ bắc sông Son - Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, and perhaps enjoy a drink at Cây Bàng Quán - Big Tree Restaurant in the evening. I am looking forward to discovering more hidden gems in this beautiful region.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible corner of the world with my friends. Phong Nha has a way of capturing your heart with its natural beauty, its delicious food, and its warm and welcoming people. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The trip is flying by, and I am already thinking about how to bring a little piece of Vietnam back home with me to Berlin. Maybe I'll try my hand at making pho, or perhaps I'll just settle for নিয়মিত visits to the Vietnamese restaurants in our neighborhood. Either way, I know that the memories of this adventure will stay with me long after I've returned home.