Solo Exploration of Vietnam's Natural Wonders: Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Son River Reflections & Culinary Delights

Today was a day of simple pleasures and quiet reflection here in Phong Nha. I started with the intention of soaking in the natural beauty and experiencing the local culture, and I must say, it delivered in spades. It's amazing how much you can appreciate when you're traveling solo, allowing yourself to be fully present in each moment.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at The Rice House. The reviews online raved about their vegetarian options, and as someone who appreciates a good meatless meal, I had to try it. I opted for the tomato tofu, which came highly recommended, and a strong Vietnamese coffee to kickstart my day. The tofu was delicious, perfectly flavored, although I have to admit, I've had slightly better tomato tofu in the past. Still, the atmosphere was lovely, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was a great start to the day, fueling me up for my adventures. Lena would have loved this place, she appreciates vegetarian options even more than I do.

With a full stomach, I set off to explore the Bờ bắc sông Son - Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, or the northern bank of the Son River. The Son River is truly the heart of Phong Nha, and I wanted to experience it up close. I spent a good part of the morning simply walking along the riverbank, taking in the stunning views of the karst mountains that surround the area. The landscape here is truly breathtaking, and it's easy to see why this area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The water was so calm and peaceful, reflecting the sky like a mirror. I took some photos, trying to capture the beauty, but as always, the real thing is so much more impressive than any photograph. I could have spent hours just sitting there, lost in thought, watching the boats go by.


Discover the serene beauty of Bờ Bạc Sông Son in Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, Vietnam, where lush landscapes and adventure await every traveler.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the simplest moments, like a quiet walk along a serene river.

For lunch, I decided to try the PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM). It was another local spot that had good reviews, and I was in the mood for some authentic Vietnamese cuisine. I ordered the rice noodles with barbecue pork (bún thịt nướng), a classic dish that I always enjoy. The peanut sauce was indeed homemade and delicious, just as the reviews said. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home. It's these small interactions that really make a trip special, connecting with people and experiencing their culture firsthand. I overheard some other travelers complaining about the portions being smaller than expected, but I found it to be just the right amount for a midday meal.

After lunch, I took a little siesta back at my guesthouse, escaping the midday heat. Traveling solo allows me to be flexible with my schedule, resting when I need to and exploring when I feel like it. It’s a luxury I don’t always get when traveling with Lena, as she likes to keep a packed itinerary. It was during this rest that I realized I had forgotten to pack mosquito repellent and sunscreen. I´ll need to buy some tomorrow.

As the sun began to set, I ventured out again for dinner at The Villas Restaurant. This place was a bit more upscale than the other restaurants I had visited, but I wanted to treat myself to a nice meal with a view of the Son River. I opted for the beef tenderloin, which was cooked to perfection and served with a delicious potato gratin. The restaurant is located right on the riverbank, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The atmosphere was relaxed and sophisticated, a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. The Villas Restaurant seems to be a popular venue for special occasions.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese cuisine amidst the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park at The Villas Restaurant.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out the Dubai Pub Phong Nha. It´s funny to find a place called Dubai Pub in such a remote location, but I was curious to see what it was like. It turned out to be a lively spot with a good mix of locals and tourists. I enjoyed a couple of local Vietnamese beers, chatting with some fellow travelers and listening to live music. The pub had a rustic charm, with warm lighting and comfortable seating, making it a great place to relax and socialize. It was interesting to see how different cultures blend together in a place like Phong Nha, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere. The staff were friendly and attentive, always ready with a smile and a recommendation for a signature cocktail. It was the perfect way to end the day, soaking in the local nightlife and making some new friends.


Discover vibrant nightlife at Dubai Pub Phong Nha, where lively ambiance meets stunning natural beauty in Vietnam's adventure hub.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit The Duck Stop and the Núi Đôi Semiwild Enclosure. I've heard that The Duck Stop is more than just a restaurant; it's a quirky attraction where you can feed ducks and ride water buffalo. It sounds like a fun and unique experience, and I'm looking forward to trying some of their local delicacies. The Núi Đôi Semiwild Enclosure should offer a glimpse into the local wildlife, which I am also excited about. Before that I´ll have breakfast at Phong nha Rooftop Bar.

As I reflect on today, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of travel. It's not always about the big attractions or the adrenaline-pumping adventures; sometimes, it's about the quiet moments of reflection, the delicious local meals, and the friendly faces you meet along the way. Phong Nha has a way of slowing you down and reminding you to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. I am already looking forward to what tomorrow brings.

I am falling in love with this part of the world. I wonder if Lena and I could ever live here?