Phong Nha: Kingdom of Caves

Description:

Phong Nha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is famous for its impressive caves , among the largest and most mysterious in the world.

You can visit Phong Nha Cave with its long underground river, Paradise Cave adorned with stalactites, and Hang En , the third largest cave in the world. These sites can be explored on foot, by boat, or through various treks .

For adventurers, the ultimate challenge is Son Doong , the world's largest cave , whose private exploration is expensive ($3000), booked well in advance and requires excellent physical fitness with a dedicated crew.

I took a seven-hour bus from Hanoi to Phong Nha , arriving at 2 a.m. on a deserted street near a backpacker hostel that cost €3 a night, breakfast included. By 7 a.m., I was up for a cave expedition. The next day, I set off on my own and joined a local family ; their little girl translated for us. We explored together, took photos, and then had lunch with them, where I learned about their lives and their hope for marriage to a Westerner. improves their condition . Later, away from the family and with kindness, the mother proposed that I marry her daughter.   This human immersion, combining natural adventures and authentic sharing, leaves a profound mark.

I found that Vietnamese women embody a profound strength . They juggle family responsibilities, work, and daily challenges with quiet courage . Their simplicity reflects a wisdom deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture; they have a remarkable ability to give, protect, and build strong families. Their commitment is evident in their hard work , their devotion to their children, and their vital role in passing on values.

• Take a bus if you are coming from Hanoi or Sapa

• Visit the Phong Nha, Paradise and Hang En caves , accessible at different levels.

• If you are looking for extreme adventure, prepare yourself for Son Doong: booking 2 years in advance and a guide is mandatory.

• Take advantage of the encounters with locals; they enrich your trip far beyond the landscapes.

• Remember to bring appropriate clothing for the different temperatures in the caves and outdoors. - Very cold in the caves and very hot outside

• Stay at Central Backpackers Hostel - Very useful for organizing visits