29/12/2024 – Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang
The History of Ba Na Hills
Our day began with great anticipation as we set out for Ba Na Hills, a site steeped in history and now home to a sprawling theme park. Originally developed by the French in the early 20th century as a hill station, Ba Na Hills offered a cool retreat from Vietnam’s tropical heat. The French built villas and homes here, but many were later destroyed by Ho Chi Minh’s supporters, viewing them as remnants of colonial rule. Decades later, the area was transformed into a world-class resort and theme park, featuring modern attractions while retaining a nod to its historical roots. The first stop however was at a pearl’s outlet, where after a pitch about how they craft pearls jewellery we gave in to the hard sell and brought a pearls necklace.
Ascending Through the Clouds
Upon arrival at Ba Na Hills, we boarded a cable car, renowned for being one of the longest in the world. The ride was spectacular, taking us over gushing waterfalls and lush green forests. However, as we ascended, the weather turned, with thick clouds enveloping the landscape. By the time we reached the top, rain had set in, casting a foggy shroud over the theme park.
Craft Beer and Rainy Wanderings
Many of the park’s outdoor attractions were closed due to the rain. We made the best of the situation by sampling craft beer brewed locally in Ba Na Hills, courtesy of free vouchers. The foggy atmosphere added an air of mystery as our guide led us through the mist-laden park. Unable to enjoy the sweeping views, we ventured into the indoor section of the theme park.
Indoor Fun: Games and Rides
Inside, we spent a couple of hours enjoying bumper cars, much to the delight of the children. They also braved a vertical drop ride and a modern merry-go-round that spun high into the air. We tried our luck at classic carnival games—ring tosses and ball throws—but after repeated failed attempts to win stuffed animals, we decided to enjoy the vibrant performances instead.
European Performances
The park featured shows by European dancers and musicians, adding a lively flair to the otherwise dreary day. I’ve included video blogs of these performances for readers to enjoy. The music and dance offered a delightful respite and added some much-needed cheer to the experience.
The Golden Bridge: Hidden in Fog
After lunch at an Indian buffet restaurant, we visited the iconic Golden Bridge, supported by two giant stone hands. Unfortunately, the thick fog obscured the panoramic views, leaving us with only glimpses of this architectural marvel. Descending via cable car, the lower altitudes offered clearer visibility, allowing for some quick photography before departing.
Evening in Da Nang: Tranquility and Vibrance
Back in Da Nang, we rested briefly before heading out to the Standing Buddha at the Linh Ung Pagoda. As one of the tallest statues in Vietnam, this serene landmark offered stunning city views and an unparalleled sense of tranquility. Visiting around 7:30 PM, we had the site almost entirely to ourselves, making it a peaceful and reflective experience.
The Dragon Bridge: A Fiery Display
Our Grab driver then took us to the Dragon Bridge, where we witnessed the famed fire and water display. The festive atmosphere was electric, with music, night markets, and throngs of tourists celebrating the lead-up to the New Year. While the rest of the family returned to the hotel, I lingered to capture the vibrant scene at the Love Bridge, though the lack of a tripod made night photography challenging. Despite this, the photographs captured the lively spirit of Da Nang’s nightlife.
Reflections on the Day
While the rainy weather at Ba Na Hills dampened our expectations, the day’s experiences still held moments of joy and discovery. The serene beauty of the Standing Buddha and the vibrant festivities at the Dragon Bridge more than compensated for the earlier disappointment. As New Year approached, the city’s festive atmosphere filled us with anticipation for the adventures yet to come.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter | Day 2: Immersing in Hanoi’s History, Culture, and Culinary Delights | Day 3: A Journey Through Ancient Vietnam and Cultural Wonders | Day 4: Cruising Through the Wonders of Ha Long Bay | Day 5: From Ha Long Bay to Da Nang – Adventures Above and Below | Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang | Day 7: A Day of Serenity and Lanterns in Hoi An | Day 8: Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Welcoming 2025 | Day 9: A Journey Through the Mekong Delta | Day 10: From the Horrors of War to the Charm of Cambodia | Day 11: The Majestic Temples of Angkor | Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor | Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures | Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
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