Discovering the Coffee Culture of Buon Ma Thuot

Finding Peace in the City

Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and quiet moments in Buon Ma Thuot. I set out without a rigid plan, eager to simply wander and absorb the local atmosphere. It turned out to be a beautiful blend of serene landscapes, cultural encounters, and delicious food. Sometimes, the best days are the ones where you let the city guide you.

My morning began with a leisurely stroll through the Công viên, the city park. It was a welcome escape from the bustling streets, a tranquil oasis filled with lush greenery, towering trees, and vibrant flowers. I found a quiet bench and sat, watching locals practice Tai Chi, children playing, and couples enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It reminded me of the parks back in Haarlem, though with a distinctly Vietnamese charm. I took some time to journal, jotting down my thoughts and observations, feeling grateful for the simple beauty around me. It's amazing how a pocket of nature can bring so much calm amidst a busy city. I even managed to capture a few decent photos, though I still wish I hadn't forgotten my portable charger; my phone battery is always a concern!


Discover the serene beauty of Công Viên, a lush park in Buôn Ma Thuột, perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Next on my list was the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ban Mê Thuột. As I approached, the modernist architecture of the cathedral struck me, a contrast to the surrounding cityscape. Inside, the stained glass windows cast colorful patterns across the serene space. I'm not particularly religious, but I always find churches to be incredibly peaceful places, and this was no exception. I lit a candle and sat in quiet contemplation, reflecting on my journey so far. The cathedral is the oldest religious structure in the mountain town. The building's architecture is beautiful and serene. I learned that the diocese plays a significant role in the local community, with many members belonging to ethnic minorities. It was a reminder of the diverse cultural tapestry that makes Vietnam so fascinating.


Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ban Mê Thuột in the heart of Vietnam's Dak Lak province.

Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are the ones that unfold organically, without rigid plans or expectations.

For breakfast, I ventured to Quán Toan : Cơm Chiên + Mỳ Xào + Bò Xốt Hầu. I decided to try the Cơm Chiên (fried rice), and it was absolutely delicious! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and it was evident that the ingredients were fresh. It was a hearty and satisfying start to the day, and the friendly service made it even better. I made a mental note to try the Mỳ Xào (stir-fried noodles) next time.


Experience the flavors of Vietnam at Quán Toan, where delicious fast food meets local tradition in Buôn Ma Thuột.

Lunch took me to Ẩm thực hồ câu Bạn Tôi, a restaurant by a fishing lake. The setting was idyllic, with the gentle breeze and the sound of water creating a relaxing ambiance. Although I don't fish, I enjoyed watching the locals trying their luck while I savored some fresh seafood. The restaurant had a lovely, laid-back atmosphere, and it was a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Ẩm thực hồ câu Bạn Tôi, where every dish tells a story and nature enhances your dining experience.

In the evening, I decided to try Nhà Đất for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The menu featured a range of Vietnamese dishes, and I opted for a local specialty. The flavors were bold and authentic, and the presentation was beautiful. It was a culinary experience that truly captured the essence of Buon Ma Thuot.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà Đất in Buôn Ma Thuột - a culinary journey filled with flavor and tradition.

To cap off the day, I decided to check out LYRA Pub for a nightcap. The pub had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the music. I ordered a local beer and struck up a conversation with a friendly Vietnamese couple who shared some interesting insights about the region. It was a fun and relaxed way to end the day, soaking in the city's nightlife.


Discover the lively ambiance of LYRA Pub, a hotspot in Buôn Ma Thuột for refreshing drinks, live music, and an authentic local experience.

As I walked back to my guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. Buon Ma Thuot had surprised me with its blend of serenity and vibrancy. The city park offered a peaceful retreat, the cathedral provided a moment of reflection, and the local eateries tantalized my taste buds. It was a day of simple pleasures and unexpected discoveries, a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones where you simply let the city guide you.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Di tích nhà tù Buôn Ma Thuột (Buon Ma Thuot Prison) and the Mau Than memorial. It will be a day of delving into the region's history, a chance to learn more about the struggles and triumphs of the Vietnamese people. I'm also hoping to squeeze in some time at Shop's Make My, a local shop that a local recommended for unique souvenirs. I am hoping to find something special for Alessia, she would love that!

Even though Pieter and Alessia aren't here with me, I feel like I'm collecting experiences to share with them when I return to Haarlem. I am learning so much about Vietnamese culture, and it is a joy to experience and then share these stories with them. Perhaps next time, we can all come together and explore this beautiful country.

I am also thinking of my next solo trip, maybe somewhere in the Italian countryside, to reconnect with my roots. But for now, I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings in Buon Ma Thuot.