Visiting the land of martial arts
Update: Jun 09, 2010
Binh Dinh Province is famous not only as the land of Vietnamese martial arts but also for its spectacular landscapes, stunning beaches and historical and cultural sites.

Who touring Quy Nhon City in Binh Dinh Province should visit Ghenh Rang, an area of pristine beaches such as Bai Bang, Bai Xep, Bai Rang and Bai Dai. These beaches offer privacy for honeymoons or summer vacations.

In the north of the city, Thi Nai Bridge connecting Quy Nhon City and Nhon Hoi Peninsula is a good place to stroll around and breathe fresh air and capture romantic views of the sea and the bustling ambiance of the Nhon Hoi Economic Area. Near the bridge is a fresh seafood restaurant serving local specialties.

Another must-see place is Quang Trung Museum in Kien My Village, Binh Thanh Commune, Tay Son District, about 45km from the center of the city. The museum dedicated to relics and artifacts of the Tay Son Revolution (1771-1789), covers about 9ha and includes historical works such as Tay Son Temple, a guest house, statues, an old well and many seasoned trees. Nearby, tourists can also visit drill grounds of the Tay Son Troop such as Ong Binh Mountain and Am and Kien islets.

About ten minutes from the museum by bus is Ham Ho, one of the main military bases of the Tay Son Troop consisting of stream, waterfall, river and lake.

At Ham Ho, tourists can drift on a small boat along deserted and shady canals and then trek to the mountain or take a coach trip at a price of about VND30,000. Tourists can also make camp among the giant rocks near the lake and swim in the stream or river. Do not forget to take photos as the landscapes are wonderful.

Staying overnight is a good way to get closer to nature and hear the mixed sounds of the insects, the murmurs of the streams, the splashing of the waterfalls and the winds through the dense groves.

The province is also famous for its Cham temples such as Canh Tien, Duong Long and Doi. These temples are decorated with bas-reliefs and statues depicting Hindu gods.

The province’s Phu Cat Airport is an hour’s flight from HCMC and a 40 minute flight from Hanoi. From the airport to Quy Nhon City is about 45 minutes by taxi.

The city has many guest houses priced from VND100,000 to VND200,000 and more luxurious services at Saigon-Quy Nhon Hotel, Hai Yen Hotel and Hoang Anh Gia Lai Resort.
SGT