Lan Ha Bay (in the northern portal city of Hai Phong) and Da Lat City (in the Central Highland Province of Lam Dong) were listed by the US’s CNN Travel, among the 18 most underrated places in Asia.
Lan Ha Bay is a less-visited waterwat in northeastern Vietnam. (Photo: CNN)
In its article, CNN noted that comprising more than 40 countries, Asia cannot be summed up easily. In addition to destinations that are too familiar to tourists, Asia has other less-crowded and equally-rewarding treasures.
Among the list of the 18 most underrated destinations, Vietnam was honoured with two destinations including Lan Ha Bay and Da Lat City.
With its fresh mountain air and pine forests in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, Dalat is a popular destination for local Vietnamese that isn't as well known among international travellers, quoted by CNN’s Travel.
Located in the highlands, Dalat's cool air makes it a popular place for locals to escape from the city. (Photo: CNN)
At 1,500 metres above sea level, the cooler weather is the great attraction of this highland city.
Dalat possesses the beauty of French colonial architecture in combination with modern features, as well as twisting stairwells and whimsical sculptures. Da Lat is always an ideal destination for honeymoon couples and nature lovers.
Regarding Lan Ha Bay, CNN’s Travel noted that Ha Long Bay is no secret, the UNESCO-listed waterway has long been popular with backpackers and luxury travellers alike.
However, visitors who want to ply the waters with fewer neighbours should head to Lan Ha, south of Ha Long Bay, according to CNN.
“Lan Ha Bay is a stretch of shimmering water broken up by limestone (karst) islands that can be enjoyed by a day trip (kayak, canoe) or overnight (cruise ship, junk boat).”, added CNN’s Travel.
There are many tours to explore Lan Ha Bay. Most travellers come to the bay by bus or car from Hanoi or Hai Phong and then leave from Cat Ba Island to explore Lan Ha Bay's grottoes, caves and white-sand beaches.
Other most underrated destinations in Asia in the list include Ipoh (Malaysia), Isaan (Thailand), Leshan (China), Skardu (Pakistan), Nikko (Japan), Davao (the Philippines), Meghalaya (India), Pulau Ubin (Singapore), Samosir Island (Indonesia), Pakse (Laos), Bangladesh, Tengchong (China), Gogunsan Islands (the Republic of Korea), Kenting from Taiwan (China), Banteay Chhmar (Cambodia) and Jaffna (Sri Lanka).