Dalat

I haven't been back to Dalat for more than 10 years so I decided to spend two nights there recently during the Tet holiday period. It probably wasn't enough time but because I traveled by myself, two days was enough that I didn't get bored with my own company. I didn't think Dalat had many types of food on offer but funny enough I spent most of my time trying heaps of them. Some snacks are interpretations from other cities but some are Dalat specialities.

I had lunch at a small family restaurant recommended by my taxi guy where they cook great Vietnamese food and food from Dalat. It was really good especially the local dishes; artichoke broth with pig trotters and BBQ deer with sesame seeds. After lunch, I walked a bit and had a coffee in a very small cafe where all the men came for a quick caffeine hit and to purchase tickets in both the normal lottery and the black lottery. It was a bit awkward but there were many funny and interesting conversations between those men and the lady who runs the black lottery business. In the afternoon I followed my friend's recommendation: avocado ice cream. I was really looking for it and it was super. The ice cream mixed with fresh smooth avocado went down so well that I can still taste the gorgeous flavor.

On the last day, I hired a taxi to visit Truc Lam Thien Vien pagoda. I walked around the beautiful pagoda then wandered around the lake. The view was very nice, the atmosphere peaceful except for the noise created by Chinese and Russian tourists. Anyhow, we went to Love Valley, a place decorated with over-the-top decorations, most of them were very truly ugly. Another interesting but ugly structure in Dalat is Hang Nga Villa, also known as the Crazy House. It is quite a fascinating construction but unfortunately full of tourists shouting and taking photos. I admit I was taking photos, too, but I did feel a bit stupid!!!!

My visit to Dalat was short and sweet and cool, by the way. Because it's located in the central highlands, Dalat has a climate that is not as cold as Hanoi but cold enough for me to have to buy a jacket. Keep that in mind if you ever visit. As for me, I wouldn't mind coming back here again for a short break but next time with a friend.