Exploring the Mystical Caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Wandering Along the Son River

Today was a day of simple pleasures and delightful discoveries in Phong Nha. After several days of adventurous cave explorations, Jean-Pierre and I decided to take a more relaxed approach, immersing ourselves in the local culture and enjoying the serene landscapes. It was a welcome change of pace, allowing us to appreciate the quieter side of this beautiful region.

Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at The Villas Restaurant. Nestled along the banks of the Son River, the restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding karst mountains. The Villas Restaurant is known as Phong Nha's most beautiful eating place. I opted for a Vietnamese coffee, strong and sweet, while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a classic omelette. The peaceful ambiance and delicious food set the perfect tone for the day ahead.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to explore Bờ bắc sông Son – the northern bank of the Son River. The walk was incredibly peaceful, with the gentle sounds of the river accompanying us. We passed by local houses, their colorful facades adding character to the landscape. Children waved as we strolled by, their smiles as warm as the December sun. It was a far cry from the bustling cities we're used to, a reminder of the simple joys in life. Jean-Pierre, ever the photographer, captured the picturesque scenes, promising to add them to our growing collection of travel memories.


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 most profound experiences are found not in grand adventures, but in the quiet moments of connection with a place and its people.

For lunch, we ventured to Bamboo Chopsticks, a local restaurant renowned for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and vegetarian options. The restaurant was bustling with both locals and tourists, a testament to its popularity. I decided to try the tofu curry, while Jean-Pierre went for the caramel tofu. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, a delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients. We learned that Bamboo Chopsticks is deeply rooted in the Phong Nha community, employing locals who have transitioned from farming and logging to the hospitality industry. Knowing that our meal was supporting the local economy made it even more satisfying.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bamboo Chopsticks in Phong Nha – where every meal tells a story.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, we sought refuge from the heat at Pub with cold beer. The name itself was an invitation we couldn't resist! The pub was located a bit outside the main town, offering a more secluded and rustic atmosphere. Hammocks swayed gently in the breeze, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music. Jean-Pierre and I ordered a couple of Huda beers and relaxed in the hammocks, watching the world go by. We learned about the pub's unique concept – they offer customers the option to catch, kill, clean, and cook their own chicken! While we opted to skip that particular experience, we admired their commitment to ethical farming and fresh, local ingredients.


Discover the charm of Quang Binh's best pub, where cold beer meets local culture in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

For our final meal of the day, we chose The Rice House, drawn in by its reputation for delicious vegan options. As someone who appreciates plant-based cuisine, I was eager to see what they had to offer. I ordered the tomato tofu, while Jean-Pierre, feeling adventurous, tried the tofu and eggplant claypot. Both dishes were exceptional, flavorful and satisfying. The Rice House had a lovely atmosphere, with friendly staff and a cozy setting. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary exploration.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciated the opportunity to slow down and connect with the local culture. The serene walk along the Son River, the delicious meals at local restaurants, and the relaxing stop at Pub with cold beer all contributed to a day of simple yet profound pleasures. It reminded me that travel isn't just about seeing famous landmarks; it's also about immersing yourself in the everyday life of a place and connecting with its people.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve back into the natural wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, exploring more of its stunning landscapes. We'll start with breakfast at Phong Nha Family Restaurant, known for its authentic local menu. Then, we intend to spend the day within the park itself. We also plan to visit Đặc sản, cafe Hương Rừng, a local shop, for some unique finds. I'm excited for another day of adventure, but I'll also cherish the memories of today's tranquil exploration. It's these moments of quiet connection that often stay with me the longest.

As I write this, Jean-Pierre is already fast asleep, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. I, however, am wide awake, savoring the memories of the day. I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Phong Nha, and I'm excited to share more of our journey with you all.

Before signing off, I must admit that I forgot to pack insect repellent and a portable charger! Note to self and to you all: Always double-check your packing list, especially when venturing into nature! Good night from Phong Nha!

P.S. I’m really enjoying using Evendo to share my travel experiences. It’s a fantastic platform for travel bloggers, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to share their adventures with the world. And to my fellow travel bloggers, let's connect on Evendo and inspire each other with our stories!

I am also thinking of taking a cooking class at Bamboo Chopsticks Restaurant. Learning to cook local cuisine is a great way to connect with the culture. The class includes a trip to the local market to source fresh ingredients. I think it would be great to learn how to cook some of the dishes we’ve been enjoying here. The black sticky rice is one of the dishes I would love to recreate at home.