Discovering the Coffee Culture of Buon Ma Thuot

Green Escapes and Culinary Delights

Today was all about immersing myself in the natural beauty and local flavors of Buon Ma Thuot. It's incredible how much a change of scenery and a taste of authentic cuisine can invigorate the soul. As a freelance translator, I often find myself confined to my desk in Haarlem, so these days of exploration are a welcome escape. I was excited to see what the day had in store, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

My day began with a quest for the perfect *bánh mì*. I remembered reading about Bánh Mì & Ăn Vặt Mẹ Na, a local favorite, and decided to give it a try for breakfast. It was a small, unassuming place, but the aroma of freshly baked bread and grilled meats wafted through the air, drawing me in. I ordered a classic *bánh mì thịt*, filled with succulent grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a generous spread of pate. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Vietnamese fast food at Bánh Mì & Ăn Vặt Mẹ Na—home to delicious bánh mì sandwiches and local snacks.

With my stomach satisfied, I set off to Mộc Garden BMT. The garden was a little oasis of tranquility, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As I strolled through the grounds, I was struck by the vibrant colors and the meticulous care that had gone into creating such a serene space. There were flowers of every hue imaginable, their delicate petals unfurling in the gentle sunlight. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. It was the perfect place to escape and reconnect with nature.


Discover the serene charm of Mộc Garden BMT in Buôn Ma Thuột, Vietnam—a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery and delightful local cuisine.

The beauty of a place lies not just in its landscapes, but in the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture.

Next on my list was Serepok Garden - Khu Du Lịch Sinh Thái, an eco-tourism spot. This place was much larger than Mộc Garden, with winding paths that led through lush greenery and past serene ponds. I spent hours wandering through the gardens, marveling at the diversity of plant life and the peaceful atmosphere. There were hidden nooks and crannies everywhere, each offering a different perspective on the landscape. I found a quiet spot by a small waterfall and sat for a while, simply listening to the soothing sound of the water cascading over the rocks.


Explore the beauty of Serepok Garden, an eco-tourism gem in Dak Lak, Vietnam, blending nature, culture, and adventure for an unforgettable experience.

For lunch, I decided to try Quán Ăn Buôn Ma Thuột, a local restaurant known for its traditional Vietnamese dishes. I ordered *cơm niêu*, a classic Vietnamese dish of rice cooked in a clay pot, served with a variety of savory side dishes. The rice was fragrant and fluffy, and the side dishes were bursting with flavor. It was a truly authentic culinary experience.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Quán Ăn Buôn Ma Thuột - where every meal tells a story.

In the late afternoon, I popped into Moss Buôn Ma Thuột - Phụ kiện Quà tặng, a charming little shop that sells local handicrafts and souvenirs. I was looking for a small gift to bring back to Alessia, and I found the perfect little wooden toy, painted with bright, cheerful colors. I know she'll love it. It reminded me of the small wooden toys they sell in Matera.


Discover unique gifts and accessories at Moss Buôn Ma Thuột, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs in Vietnam.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Nhà Hàng Hò Lăk for dinner. This restaurant is famous for its *bánh xèo*, crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The pancakes were enormous, and the filling was incredibly flavorful. I savored every bite, washing it down with a refreshing glass of local beer.


Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Nhà Hàng Hò Lăk – home of delectable mung bean pancakes in Buôn Ma Thuột.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I took a stroll through the streets of Buon Ma Thuot, soaking in the atmosphere of the city. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter, and the streets were alive with activity. It was a vibrant and energetic city, full of life and character. I thought of Pieter and Alessia back in Haarlem. I miss them, but I know this solo trip is important for me. It allows me to recharge and reconnect with myself, so that I can be a better wife and mother when I return.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Dray Nur Waterfall and the Buon Ma Thuot Victory Monument. I'm also hoping to check out Fantasy Lounge in the evening, maybe meet some locals. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this fascinating city. It will be nice to see some more of the natural beauty around Buon Ma Thuot, and I am hoping to find a nice strong coffee in the morning.

The weather has been quite pleasant, with temperatures hovering in the mid-80s during the day and cooling down to the low 70s at night. It's the perfect time of year to explore the outdoors, and I'm making the most of it.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this beautiful city. Buon Ma Thuot is a place of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern life, and where natural beauty blends seamlessly with urban energy. It's a place that has captured my heart, and I know that I will never forget my time here.

And now, it's time for some rest. Goodnight from Buon Ma Thuot! See you tomorrow for day six!