International newspapers suggest iconic destinations in central Vietnam

In the post-Covid-19 era, Vietnam has emerged as one of the most popular destinations for Indian tourists due to its vibrant atmosphere, affordable prices and diverse attractions ranging from history, nature to endless shopping and culinary delights.

Báo quốc tế gợi ý những điểm đến mang tính biểu tượng ở miền trung Việt Nam - Ảnh 1. — My Son Sanctuary. Photo: Sandip Hor

"I love coming to Vietnam and have been there several times before, mainly in the north and south of the country, including the capital Hanoi , Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Ho Chi Minh City. And this time back in Vietnam, I visited the ancient port city of Hoi An and the modern coastal city of Quy Nhon. These destinations are famous for being holidays for those who love sun, sea and sand," wrote author Sandip Hor.

Hoi An – Cultural convergence destination

Nestled on the banks of the Thu Bon River, the ancient town of Hoi An was once a 2,000-year-old river port settlement. Merchants from China, India, Persia, Japan, and Europe came here to trade spices, silks, jewelry, and other goods. Some of them decided to stay in Hoi An, helping it become a melting pot of cultures.

Centuries have passed, but Hoi An still retains much of its ancient character. This is what attracts tourists and inspired UNESCO in 1999 to declare it a World Heritage Site.

"The best way to enjoy the beauty of Hoi An is to walk along the riverbank and adjacent alleys. Hoi An is captivating with its ancient beauty as soon as you step out of the resort. I feel like I am wandering in an open-air museum, where many ancient buildings were built from the 15th to the 19th century, reflecting the ancient beauty and architectural influences of the Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese and French," author Sandip Hor shared his feelings when coming to Hoi An ancient town.

Explore My Son Sanctuary

While Hoi An is a commercial center bearing the mark of the Champa era, My Son Sanctuary is considered the religious and cultural center of the Champa era, located about 45km from Hoi An.

From the 4th to the 13th centuries, My Son was built with a series of Hindu temples by traders visiting from India. Over time, many works of art were lost due to natural disasters and historical upheavals.

The tower is built of dark red bricks from local soil, widening and tapering in the shape of a flower at the top. The tower's floor plan is mostly square with a narrow interior, usually with a single door opening to the East (the direction of the rising sun). The ceiling is arched, and inside the tower is a stone altar. The art of carving and chiseling flowers, birds, dancers, and gods is shown on the outer wall of the tower.

"I went to My Son Sanctuary for half a day. With the help of a tour guide, I walked through the ruins of the tower temples, some intact and others only partially preserved. Orange bricks with stone pillars were used for construction. What is special is that the towers were all built with bricks using a technique that is still a mystery to this day. The ancient Cham people did not use adhesives, the bricks seemed to be only grinded tightly, stacked but solidly. Some of the towers were severely damaged but have now been gracefully restored to their original beauty," wrote author Sandip Hor.

Quy Nhon – the most attractive destination in central Vietnam

Located 300 km south of Hoi An, Quy Nhon is now an attractive destination in central Vietnam. Not only the coastline but also the peaceful space is an attractive destination for tourists.

In particular, another extremely rewarding experience is the 6-hour rail journey from Hoi An to Quy Nhon by The Vietage Quy Nhon – Da Nang tourist train, a combination of history and nature, beauty and luxury.

This is a luxury train in Vietnam, connecting the ancient town of Hoi An with the peaceful shores of Quy Nhon. The 6-hour journey gives visitors an exciting experience on the rails.

The Vietage Quy Nhon – Da Nang tourist train trip offers luxury transfers between Anantara Hoi An Resort and Anantara Quy Nhon Resort.

The Vietage train departs daily from Da Nang station in the morning and arrives in Quy Nhon in the afternoon.

"The rail adventure offers luxury service throughout the journey. The journey not only offers breathtaking rural views of central Vietnam but also a diverse service with a variety of drinks, snacks, a delicious 3-course lunch and many other options," author Sandip Hor commented./.

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