Exploring the Mystical Caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Embracing the Heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Today was a day of complete immersion in the natural beauty and local flavors of Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Jean-Pierre and I set out to explore more of what this incredible national park has to offer, from its famed caves to its charming local eateries. It was a day filled with wonder, delicious food, and a deeper connection to the heart of Vietnam.

Our day began with breakfast at Phong Nha Family Restaurant (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM). It’s always a pleasure to start the day with authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to fuel up for their day’s adventures. I opted for a steaming bowl of Pho, while Jean-Pierre chose the Banh Mi. The flavors were vibrant and fresh, setting a perfect tone for the day ahead. It reminded me of mornings back in Miarinarivo, Madagascar, where the day always began with a flavorful, home-cooked meal.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Phong Nha Family Restaurant in Quang Binh Province – a culinary gem amidst stunning natural beauty.

After breakfast, we dedicated our morning to exploring more of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Although we've seen a lot of caves already, the park is so vast and diverse that there's always something new to discover. The weather in December is quite pleasant, with mildly cool temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. It's ideal for exploring the park without the intense heat of the summer months.


Explore the stunning landscapes and incredible caves of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam's Quang Binh Province.

We decided to revisit some of the areas we loved the most, taking our time to soak in the scenery and capture some photographs. The karst landscapes are truly breathtaking, and the lush greenery is a welcome change from the cityscapes of Montreal. We even stumbled upon a few hidden trails, which led us to stunning viewpoints overlooking the park. It's moments like these that remind me why I love travel blogging – sharing these hidden gems with the world is such a rewarding experience.

For lunch, we headed to Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant. This cozy spot is known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes and inviting atmosphere. Jean-Pierre and I shared a variety of dishes, including the famous Banh Mi and Bun Cha. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and the cozy ambiance made it a perfect midday retreat. The staff were incredibly friendly, and we even got a chance to chat with the owner about the local cuisine and culture. It’s these personal interactions that make traveling so enriching.


Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Phong Nha at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Đặc sản, cafe Hương Rừng. This charming shop is known for its local specialties and coffee. We picked up a few souvenirs for our friends and family back home, including some locally sourced coffee beans and traditional handicrafts. I always love supporting local businesses, as it helps to sustain the community and preserve their unique culture. Plus, it's a great way to bring a piece of our travels back home with us.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Son Doong Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is highly recommended for its delicious Vietnamese cuisine and warm hospitality. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and culinary delights.


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

During dinner, Jean-Pierre and I reflected on our time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. We both agreed that it has been one of the most incredible experiences of our lives. The natural beauty of the park is simply unparalleled, and the warmth and hospitality of the local people have touched our hearts. It reminded me of the unique landscapes of Madagascar, but with its own distinct charm.

As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this remarkable place. We plan to visit the Phong Nha Tourism Center tomorrow before we head out. I am already looking forward to sharing our experiences with all of you through my blog. I hope that our adventures in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park will inspire you to explore this incredible destination and discover its many wonders for yourselves.

Tomorrow marks the end of our journey through Phong Nha-Ke Bang. We plan to have breakfast at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant, followed by lunch at ARTIST'S ZONE. In the evening, we'll have a farewell dinner at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3, savoring the last moments of our Vietnamese adventure. Before heading to the airport, we hope to enjoy a drink at Cây Bàng Quán - Big Tree Restaurant, reminiscing about our incredible experiences in this beautiful country. I am so grateful to have shared this experience with my wonderful husband, Jean-Pierre. His support and companionship have made this trip even more special.

The memories we’ve created here will stay with us forever. From the depths of the caves to the warmth of the local people, Phong Nha-Ke Bang has captured a piece of our hearts. Until next time, keep exploring and embracing the beauty of our world. À bientôt!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I did miss having insect repellent today, especially when we were venturing off the beaten path. Jean-Pierre also wished he had brought his portable charger, as his phone battery died halfway through the day. It's always the little things, isn't it? But these minor inconveniences didn't dampen our spirits one bit. We were too busy soaking in the beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang to let anything bother us.