Ninh Binh is an area in northern Vietnam, south east of Hanoi. The city itself is nothing special, but just outside of it are some truly amazing scenes. The two main attractions are the Tam Coc Caves and Bich Dong Pagoda (seems like they are pronounced in the most juvenile way possible…)
To get to the Tam Coc caves you must hire a small boat and an old granny will row you on a river surrounded by rice patties and surreal karst scenes. You also go through three caves or grottoes that the river cuts through.
I went as early as possible in the morning and there was a mist hanging in the morning air (which I was hoping for) and a little drizzle at one point. It was really nice to get back away from the city and hear the sounds of nature.
Ninh Binh is a small city but it produces enough sound pollution to make Chicago sound like a nature sanctuary in comparison. I have never heard car horns so loud or frequent in my life- it almost sounds like a citywide practical joke at points- but a joke that is not at all funny.
Bich Dong Pagoda was nice, although I didn’t take any pictures there. The scenery on the way there and back was what struck me the most.
The only real problem with both places is typical of what happens in a less developed country in tourist attractions: people hassling you for money.
2 comments:
These pictures are so amazing, Kyle!! You are very lucky to have seen this in person - what a beautiful place!! I love how the mountains or hills or whatever they may be called, come straight up out of the earth and then round off at the top - what an interesting look that is. So different than anything I have ever seen, that is for sure. The picture of the boats in the dock area is my absolute favorite - I have to have that one blown up and framed when you get home. It is just beautiful - the colors, the randomness of the boats floating, the misty background - I love everything about it.
Your description of the noise in Ninh Binh is hilarious! I can tell you were utterly disgusted by it!
Sounds like quite the trip you are having!! Anxious to see you later this month though!
Love,
mom
thanks for keeping my spirit alive for me... i have been staring at some good scenery of a peaceful waterfal lately, but that's just my wallpaper. i particularly like the second picture and the third to last one. Their colors stand out really well, especially the shade of green and the red shirted boy.
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