After our time in Hoi An the trip continued with a road trip
to Hue, complete with our guide Long.
First stop was the Museum of the Cham people. The Cham lived a 1,000 years ago, and the
museum displayed a number of sandstone carvings, busts and symbols from their
time occupying central Vietnam. Very
similar to the Angor Wat style sculpture and symbolism. On the way to Marble Mountain we drove past
China Beach, famous for the American soldiers R'n'R during the war, and the tv
series from the early 90's of the same name.
Marble Mountain has various temples associated with Budhism,
and after a few hundred steps you are rewarded with beautiful views over the
bay. (or take the lift to the base of
the seven story pagoda tower. There are
various caves and paths, some more inspring than others. Good to have a guide to explain the meaning
of the symbols and importance of the temple structure.
The drive continued around Danang Bay before winding up to
the top of Hai Van Pass (1,400m). A
welcome relief from the stifling heat and humidity at sea level. Hai Van Pass was a key North/South boundary
during the war occupied by the American army, with a few embattlements
remaining. We stopped for a tasty lunch
(fried rice, noodles, sweet Hibiscus tea) will wonderful views over the bay.
We continued north, taking photos at Lang Co beach, before
arriving at Hue. The last part of the
trip is bit fussy, having nodded off on a number of occasions!
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