tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-208102302024-03-28T12:57:03.265-04:00John & Sun-Ling Wander the EarthSun-Ling and John have been traveling the earth since 2008 while blogging, eating vegetarian and vegan, and riding public transportation. We love uphill day hikes, 20th-century architecture, Roman ruins, all bodies of water, local markets, shopping for groceries, aqueducts, miradors, trip planning, blablacar, and more. johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16229963702961511828noreply@blogger.comBlogger1057125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-13008241205657997862024-03-27T23:54:00.000-04:002024-03-27T23:59:05.301-04:00Sri Lanka: TrincomaleeTrincomalee, on the east coast of the island, is the least touristed city of our Sri Lankan tour. There are beach resorts a few kilometers to the north, but the town itself does not see many tourists. And it's a nice town to visit!
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The city is set on a peninsula, with further peninsulas and promontories jetting out, so there are all manners of beach and waterfront promenades. Over the weekend we were there, they were enjoyed by many local people.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614742514/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Dyke Street Neighborhood Walk - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614742514_e4c4b31049_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dyke Street Neighborhood Walk - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53608950742/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53608950742_95fd7cd57a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53609825886/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53609825886_2f44e17fe7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610163224/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610163224_0056f76f20_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="The Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614587416/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Inner Harbour - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614587416_cd8b73edf3_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Inner Harbour - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53615478265/in/dateposted-public/" title="Evening Walk Around Orrs Hill Peninsula - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53615478265_f47cea3ed5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Evening Walk Around Orrs Hill Peninsula - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614620976/in/dateposted-public/" title="Evening Walk Around Orrs Hill Peninsula - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614620976_cc848d9eb3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Evening Walk Around Orrs Hill Peninsula - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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The spiritual well being of the populus is also well catered for. There are a multitude of churches, mosques, Hindu and Buddhist temples. We could see a Hindu temple from our window (1st below).
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610235350/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="View From Out Hotel Room - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610235350_3fc37e8c0d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="View From Out Hotel Room - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53611888407/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Our Lady of Guadalupe Church - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53611888407_430a2156f0_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Our Lady of Guadalupe Church - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614864705/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="St. Mary's Cathedral - Dyke Street Neighborhood Walk - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614864705_09973f2209_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="St. Mary's Cathedral - Dyke Street Neighborhood Walk - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614265850/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Fishing Boats on the Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614265850_0c7195aa1c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Fishing Boats on the Beach - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53614827613/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Mosque - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53614827613_23a90148fc_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mosque - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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The highlight is supposed to be the much vaunted Kandasamy Hindu Temple, set at the end of the promontory. We timed our visit to the late afternoon ritual, and ran into a special ceremony welcoming an important dignitary.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610896017/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610896017_cf35a102af_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610896932/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610896932_92bb5c2015_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53612105889/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53612105889_7e4d47ed6e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53611986858/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53611986858_10dc79a537_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Kandasamy Hindu Temple - Fort Frederick - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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What I was surprised to find was the Kali Temple. While the outside (1st below) is very typical South Indian style, the inside is a fantastical riot of figures and shapes. John and I struggled to recall whether or how many times we have seen such wonders in India, if ever.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610237245/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610237245_2d1b99f2cd_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610118739/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610118739_e6f9f630b7_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610237055/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple Ceiling - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610237055_cf743558be_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple Ceiling - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610120159/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610120159_a26ef0c846_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53610118864/in/album-72177720315658737/" title="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610118864_3f33365378_c.jpg" width="800" height="309" alt="Kali Kovil Hindu Temple - Trincomalee, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-76278748714006538542024-03-24T00:25:00.003-04:002024-03-24T00:27:10.855-04:00Sri Lanka: DambullaBased in Dambulla, we had three activities.
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<li>Cave Temples: a series of five temples built by enclosing a rock overhang. The site is said to have had continuous buddhist activity since the 3rd century BCE. While the artifacts may be as recent as the last renovation and refurbishing in the 18th century, the overall effect is impressive enough. While the frescoes are reminiscent of Christian art, the statues are decidedly Buddhist.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605414835/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605414835_a9af2fdff1_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605169218/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605169218_2e18be4694_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604080457/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53604080457_c78a19cf3a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Foregoing the exorbitant admission of $36, and crowded climb to Sigiriya (Lion Rock: a rock fortress dates back to the 5th century), we opted to climb Pidurangala, another rock (sans fortress) a couple kilometers to the north with a view of the lion's head. Most people go for sunset or sunrise, so it was not crowded. At the top there are excellent views back to Sigiriya (1st and 2nd below), and the surrounding countryside.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605180238/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605180238_245b959b3e_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605426320/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="View to Sigiriya - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605426320_be989788aa_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View to Sigiriya - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604091627/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53604091627_ef0dbc4c30_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605426535/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605426535_6a0ef25e31_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Auvkana Buddha, tallest standing ancient Budha after Telaban blew up the Bamiyan Buddha in Afghanistan. While the status was compelling enough, I was taken with the big stone blocks of the enclosure. I later realized that the rocks may be just veneers over brick. They were remarkable nevertheless. This site had more Sri Lanka visitors than international visitors.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604996851/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53604996851_8b960f7487_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605334274/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605334274_e6e73a53ba_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605333979/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605333979_7711ae3eea_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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</ul>
<br><br><b> The walk to Pidurangala Rock trailhead follows the Sigirya moat. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605179848/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Sigiriya Moat - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605179848_c479427eb4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Sigiriya Moat - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605426770/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Sigiriya Moat - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605426770_bf19be952e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sigiriya Moat - Day Trip to Pidurangala Rock Rock - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Once again SL booked us into a hotel with a very nice pool. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605332454/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Hotel Pool - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605332454_55e2b28251_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hotel Pool - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The bus route to Auvkana (Giant Standing Buddha) followed the bank of one of the largest reservoirs in Sri Lanka. Video, second below. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604994751/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53604994751_f962594174_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604996911/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53604996911_fe35c7b655_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A few extra Buddha shots. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53604080192/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53604080192_8f7b28e74f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="312" alt="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605168688/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605168688_c72bc8150c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="347" alt="Cave Temples - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53605208173/in/album-72177720315636764/" title="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53605208173_f956916056_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Day Trip to the Auvkana Buddha - Dambulla, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-12604576667278687482024-03-22T23:36:00.000-04:002024-03-22T23:41:58.349-04:00Sri Lanka: Ancient PolonnaruwaPolonnaruwa is an archeological site in north central Sri Lanka. Between the 11th and 13th century Polonnaruwa was the capital of the island where rule changed between Sinhalese and Indian invaders a number of times. Much of what remains today were the results of the building program of Sinhalese King Parakramabahu. It's remarkable to me that such a small island nation, so close to the Indian subcontinent, has managed to maintain its independence for so long.
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We rented bicycles, explored the site leisurely, it took us the whole day as the $30 site ticket is only good for a day, and it was checked/marked/stamped half a dozen times. The highlights were:
<ul>
<li> The site is next to a huge lake - we were corrected - only natural lakes are lakes, otherwise they are tanks/reservoirs - wewa in Sinhala. We came to learn the island is dotted with thousands of them, starting as far back as 5th-century BCE. Those reservoirs allowed Sri Lanka to develop agriculture and advanced culture.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603930895/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603930895_842340a0a4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601428485/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Bendiwewa Reservoir - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601428485_be3434e969_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Bendiwewa Reservoir - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603679998/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Cycling Along Bendiwewa Reservoir - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603679998_8048c55fca_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Cycling Along Bendiwewa Reservoir - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li> The few pools really caught my attention - very luxurious.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53600130582/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Pokuna (Pond or Baths) - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53600130582_a194666799_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Pokuna (Pond or Baths) - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53602575637/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53602575637_177dae96af_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53602592767/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Southern District - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53602592767_de842a18a8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Southern District - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li> The reclining buddha at the Gil Vihara (Rock Temple) is particularly compelling.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603809534/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Rock Temple with Buddha Carvings - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603809534_57cd15062c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Rock Temple with Buddha Carvings - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603809489/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Rock Temple with Buddha Carvings - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603809489_5444cedcfa_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Rock Temple with Buddha Carvings - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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</ul>
<br><br><b> The ruins of the Royal Palace (first below) with defensive walls and moat were impressive even though only remnants of the lower two floors, out of seven!, exist. The nearby King’s Council Chamber with columns, lion astatues, and elephant reliefs was splendid as well. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601452140/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601452140_541e6d50af_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601464155/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="King’s Council Chamber - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601464155_c0d9591ef3_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="King’s Council Chamber - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601339949/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="King’s Council Chamber - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601339949_7d5c106292_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="King’s Council Chamber - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> At Polonnaruwa there a many stupas, large and small. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601355539/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601355539_109f0252c4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601483965/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Rankoth Vehera Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601483965_beabf1d3c9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Rankoth Vehera Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603912960/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603912960_8096ece889_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603662598/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603662598_1ef2380194_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Stupa - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And 2 Hindu temples. One was in the process of being packed up and moved in order for its foundation to be stabilized, the other is active and features a priest. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601480755/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Hindu Temple - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601480755_8e555553b7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hindu Temple - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601480270/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Hindu Temple - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601480270_f148d4cea8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hindu Temple - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There were two outstanding Buddha Image Halls. One medium-size and cozy, the other monumental. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53600983511/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53600983511_84fbc4622d_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53603448356/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Giant Standing Buddha - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53603448356_48a2694dea_c.jpg" width="644" height="800" alt="Giant Standing Buddha - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>And more. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601192183/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601192183_43eff6e534_c.jpg" width="800" height="272" alt="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53600119737/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53600119737_8456a92e44_c.jpg" width="533" height="800" alt="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53601196383/in/album-72177720315547401/" title="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53601196383_0afcedfb9d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vatadage Complex - Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-56310314456634960162024-03-20T09:31:00.001-04:002024-03-20T12:07:49.670-04:00Colombo: Around TownWhile in Colombo, on festival days we walked around the neighborhood of Cinnamon Gardens near our hotel, with wide boulevards, colonial buildings, and shady parks. We even ran into the park that was sheltering the temple elephants. As with the procession, I am super excited by their magnificent presence, at the same time, I am keenly aware of me being a passive witness to the subjugation of free spirits.
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On the last full day we went into the city center to check out Colombo Fort and Pettah. Since it happened to be a Sunday, 90+% of the businesses were closed in Pettah. It was rather easy navigating around. Judging by the number of businesses and hand carts used by ports, I could just imagine what a bustling commercial area it is, more like India than Sri Lanka, including the neighborhood religious institutions, Hindu and Muslim, not Buddhist.
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Colombo Fort, on the other hand, had a forlorn look on this Sunday, loomed over the halted construction of the new Ritz Carlton. All the roads around the Presidential Palace were closed, making the place awkward to navigate. Less than two years ago, in July 2022 protesters stormed the presidential palace as economic conditions deteriorated following Sri Lanka's sovereign default in April 2022. It seems to me the strategy of the government is to have foreign tourists fund their budget shortfalls. When COVID came, tourists stopped coming, things began to unravel. Now tourists have returned, and they are back at it again. Right before we came, the visa fees were upped from $35 to $50, UNESCO site fees for foreigners from $25 to $30 each (Sigiriya $36), and national parks at similar rates. Even with their deflated exchange rate, Sri Lanka cannot be competitive with their exports. I do not see a happy ending for Sri Lanka, as I do with Vietnam.
<br><br><b> An unexpected bonus of staying in a hotel near the Full Moon Festival was disembarking after a long train ride from Kandy at Kollupitiya Station (1st below), right on the Laccadive Sea, and maybe our fav train station disembark ever. And then later riding the train from Kollupitiya into Colombo Station (2nd, 3rd, and 4th below).</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583613081/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Kollupitiya Station - On the Train from Kandy to Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53583613081_93ae61fc25_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Kollupitiya Station - On the Train from Kandy to Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595600498/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="On the Train from Kollupitiya to Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595600498_71ea816912_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Kollupitiya to Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595710054/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="On the Train from Kollupitiya to Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595710054_96d1546717_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Kollupitiya to Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595842180/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo Fort Railway Station - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595842180_e1c43eca09_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Colombo Fort Railway Station - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Not to mention the hotel (Cinnamon Red Colombo) pool on the 26th floor. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583850723/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53583850723_cf6e381a37_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Walking around the Cinnamon Gardens neighborhood: Elephants, City Hall, National Theatre, Rugby Stadium, futuristic Planetarium, and the modernist Clock Inn building. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53585808112/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo Town Hall - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53585808112_f5825a08b4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Colombo Town Hall - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593133334/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Leaving the Elephant Spa (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53593133334_a8504c158c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Leaving the Elephant Spa (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593258050/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Temple Elephants - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593258050_6c3e76b4ca_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Temple Elephants - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53591939977/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="National Performing Arts Theatre - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53591939977_9f363da5d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="National Performing Arts Theatre - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593259955/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo Racecourse Stadium - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593259955_9cc8b6b744_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Colombo Racecourse Stadium - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53591938957/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Planetarium - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53591938957_051838ab33_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Planetarium - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593016303/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Clock Inn - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593016303_6691ca7ab5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Clock Inn - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Our day trip to Colombo Fort was very disheartening as SL describes above, although I did my best to make it look good in the photos below. First is the Unfinished Ritz-Carlton. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53594518932/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="The Unfinished Ritz-Carlton - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53594518932_58826b7fb5_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="The Unfinished Ritz-Carlton - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Clock Tower and Mosque </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595709929/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Clock Tower and Mosque - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595709929_d84414c941_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Clock Tower and Mosque - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Former National Mutual Insurance Building . </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595709179/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Former National Mutual Building - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595709179_4fc26400be_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Former National Mutual Building - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Whiteways Building </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595392811/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Whiteways Building - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595392811_aac36b97d4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Whiteways Building - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Cargills, which is not the same as Cargill, the American Company </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53595392026/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Cargills - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53595392026_e6fd054e3b_z.jpg" width="640" height="320" alt="Cargills - Colombo Fort - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And the adjoining Pettah neighborhood is also a bit worn down. We did however become familiar with the Mawatha Bus Station, finding the platform/terminal and confirming the fare for bus No 48 which we will take to Pollonnuarwa. Yes! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599423751/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Terminal 4 for Bus 48 - Mawatha Bus Station - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599423751_98f1807ec8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Terminal 4 for Bus 48 - Mawatha Bus Station - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599422691/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599422691_ac481712f6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599631723/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599631723_10c1f3a005_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599631593/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599631593_ef6c9fed4b_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599880460/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599880460_3149320c0c_z.jpg" width="494" height="640" alt="Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There are also Hindu Temples and Christian Churches (it's Lent btw) in Pettah. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599753384/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Hindu Temple - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599753384_f78bdd1210_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Hindu Temple - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599422351/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Christian Church - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599422351_08104d4cb7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Christian Church - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We had a very relaxed, tasty lunch at Arunthathee Pure VVegetarian Restaurant. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53599630783/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Pure Veg Lunch - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53599630783_225e8e2d31_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Pure Veg Lunch - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Pettah is a market neighborhood. So loads of green carts. "Sky of blue, Sea of green" ... </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53598550462/in/album-72177720315392722/" title=""Sky of Blue, Sea of Green" - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53598550462_829c383333_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt=""Sky of Blue, Sea of Green" - Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-37858451548887296072024-03-19T11:24:00.000-04:002024-03-19T11:58:47.718-04:00Colombo: February Full Moon (Poya) Festival Instead of the usual single loop, our whole Sri Lanka tour is in the shape of an 8 all because of Navam Maha Perahera at the Gangaramaya Temple. And we were amply rewarded. Easily making into our top 10 processions, the Navam Maha Perahera is a riot of colors, outrageous costumes, exuberant participants, and dozens of elephants!
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There was a small preview procession before dusk two days before the full moon. The first procession was in the evening before the full moon. We didn't expect the procession on the full moon to be identical to the previous evening. It was less crowded - obviously the locals knew. We were totally okay - how many times in our lives do we get to see such a fantastical act? Now we don't feel compelled to make it to the much touted August Poya festival in Kandy.
<br><br><b> Gangaramaya Temple, the sponsor of the festival, is modest in size but large on visual stimulation, and the area around the bodhi tree is always busy. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53584317647/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53584317647_bcb1aa3933_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53585627915/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53585627915_c98b37e6b4_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53585506764/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Bodhi Tree - Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53585506764_e890a610c5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Bodhi Tree - Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The evening before the first full moon procession, there was a dress rehearsal of sorts. We were surprised to see a female mahout (elephant trainer). The sights and sounds of the costumed dancers heightened our anticipation for the main event. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583629521/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Female Mahout - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53583629521_1b8de800a9_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Female Mahout - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583953744/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53583953744_95028c5ac9_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583850978/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53583850978_91a81fcf5c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53583851183/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53583851183_42d92f6dff_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>The festival procession was well attended. One could stand or sit along the curb, or sit in plastic chairs on raised platforms. At first we stood, then sat after a policeman's suggestion. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590840585/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590840585_9f618bd4aa_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590396576/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590396576_1701428037_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590713279/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590713279_54dbe392b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Jumping right to the highlight of the procession; that is, the three abreast elephants carrying the temple's most sacred relic on the back of the middle elephant, with functionaries riding on the backs of the other two. See the video 3rd below or click <a href="https://flic.kr/p/2pEcYCC" target="_blank">here</a>. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592920761/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Three Elephants - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592920761_80b8666f20_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Three Elephants - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592048622/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Three Elephants - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592048622_205302fa25_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Three Elephants - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53597261796/in/dateposted-public/" title="Three Elephants (Amazing Short Video ) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53597261796_204db14cde_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Three Elephants (Amazing Short Video ) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> To recap the rest of the procession: first come very solemn men cracking whips, then the lamp lighters. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593367365/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593367365_ba4edd9717_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593241024/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Lamp Lighters - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593241024_5ac2524df0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="237" alt="Lamp Lighters - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Then men with flags and banners; then the first of dozens of elephants. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53589522372/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53589522372_3fb1d7ac85_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590840595/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590840595_3f247dfde8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592049552/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Men with Flags - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592049552_c53b5329cd_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Men with Flags - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590713864/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590713864_2aca399ece_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590600043/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590600043_7b98452d84_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592921251/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592921251_ca5e0d45c3_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The first of many dance groups. Most groups were 100% men, but some were mixed and some were 100% female. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593241709/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593241709_5901ca3d9b_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593728769/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593728769_ebeb17162d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592920876/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592920876_2c25a395ff_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593367220/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593367220_45e5b423d3_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592048672/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592048672_44f7a1e616_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Then, a group of very prosperous men with attendants. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592049182/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592049182_8b9458e20f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590709039/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590709039_56cbcf7c03_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Many of the dance groups featured masks. Each dance group was accompanied by live drummers and flutists. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593128438/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593128438_9e4978ed5b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593241279/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593241279_5af0d77098_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53592048702/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53592048702_1ab3386ce8_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593861282/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Masked Dancers - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593861282_4d65217427_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Masked Dancers - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Then, a succession of plate spinners, stilt walkers, peacock strutters, busy bees, and fire twirlers. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53590708634/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53590708634_e572c4c719_b.jpg" width="1024" height="242" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593128093/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593128093_6084ccba83_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo. Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53594731051/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Stilt Walkers - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53594731051_3c1281a64b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Stilt Walkers - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53597504498/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Men on Stilts (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53597504498_31f77e8b9e_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Men on Stilts (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53593861197/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53593861197_90be704ea3_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53597517523/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Peacock Regalia (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53597517523_efd50d2254_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Peacock Regalia (Short Video) - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53596379142/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Busy Bees Short Video - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53596379142_6d4e487555_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Busy Bees Short Video - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53597651704/in/album-72177720315392722/" title="Fire Spinners (Short Video) - - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53597651704_ca6458505c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Fire Spinners (Short Video) - - February Full Moon (Poya) Festival - Colombo, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-5869076413474140502024-03-14T01:52:00.002-04:002024-03-14T02:05:44.980-04:00Kandy: Tooth Relic TempleAccording to the <a href="https://sridaladamaligawa.lk/" target="_blank">Tooth Relic Temple website</a>, on Wednesdays there is a ritual of tooth washing, in addition to daily rituals. What we had not expected, and just as we witnessed the day before at the Lankathilaka Temple, was that all these rituals happen <i>entirely behind closed doors</i>, except for a few musicians animating the whole affair. This was completely unexpected from the hundreds of Buddhist temples we visited before. These Sri Lankan Buddhist rituals are more similar to those in Hindu temples, except Hindus are not even that secretive. I doubt Lord Buddha would have approved all the hullabaloo.
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I have been convinced for a while that the goings-on at Greek and Roman temples must have been some versions of what we see at Hindu temples today; a forecourt where the devotees gather and roam, a place/table/altar for offerings, a cella that contains the diet(ies), where the priests do their <i>mumbo jumbo</i>. There would have been much communication between the subcontinent and Europe, after all the languages all belong to the same family of Indo-European language. Sanskrit? While India still practices the religion in the ancient way, Europeans have long been converted to Christianity.
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About 45 minutes after the ceremony began, buckets of cinnamon colored bath water from the tooth began to be distributed to the adherents. Holding empty bottles and vessels, some had been waiting for more than two hours. Such faith, of course, is a familiar sight, yet the materialist in me finds it incredulous every time, just looking at that murky water makes me want to gag. What I loved was seeing all the flower offerings. Photos only capture their beauty, not their fragrance. I imagine ancient Greece and Rome were not so prodigious with such sumptuous flora given their climate, therefore clay figures sufficed as votive offerings.
<br><br><b> The inner sanctum of the Temple of the Tooth is guarded by elephant tusks,and hidden behind a curtain </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573810127/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573810127_0869d1235d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Flower Offerings are given on the 2nd floor of the temple, and the slow moving line up the stairs seemed endless. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575005949/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575005949_bba91c94c5_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575120140/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575120140_38a3661e36_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573818867/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573818867_0ce4d3cd0d_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574887118/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574887118_efb2233cf8_c.jpg" width="450" height="800" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In the photo below you can see the first floor inner sanctum guarded by the tusks, and the Japanese-like grill of the second floor directly above. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574886413/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574886413_14655eb580_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A few photos of the "action"; that is, various costumed priests and functionaries entering and leaving the inner temple, plus occaisonal parading by the drummers.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575004434/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575004434_d09a81def6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575121345/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575121345_9c293b8984_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574679771/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574679771_026cf841bb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>A few more shots of the drummers and and single flutist. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575004589/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575004589_929688d575_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573813032/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573813032_09a2ceb4b0_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Distribution of bath water. The priest admonished more than several line-jumpers.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575122005/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575122005_3d519dc596_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575005654/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53575005654_1575265e1a_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Temple of the Tooth is located on a lake in central Kandy (1st below - far right). The most prominent architectural feature is an octagonal room (2nd and 3rd below). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53576978800/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53576978800_e39d3d65b3_c.jpg" width="800" height="353" alt="Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574879523/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574879523_170d222419_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574879383/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574879383_42bf7d9be8_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The front of the Temple of the Tooth was reduced to rubble in 1998 by a truck bomb, and security is still tight several blocks away. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574879583/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53574879583_910c25fcfb_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Here are more than several (short, I promise) videos of the tooth washing proceedings in chronological order. Turn on your audio.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574888958/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53574888958_ecbccdf906_c.jpg" width="450" height="800" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575121545/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53575121545_5f3bbd6fc9_c.jpg" width="450" height="800" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53575003599/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53575003599_51a42bbc0f_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574886963/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53574886963_dcc607a7e5_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574884203/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53574884203_dd663e5b26_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53574678016/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53574678016_1e7555c33d_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On Wednesdays, Monks Wash the Buddha's Tooth at the Temple of the Tooth - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> </b><br><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-66357199629040343052024-03-12T12:47:00.002-04:002024-03-12T13:14:52.080-04:00Kandy: Three Temple LoopWhen the British appeared in Sri Lanka, the Dutch controlled much of the coastal area, and Kandy was still the seat of the Sri Lankan monarchy. Much of the royal palace was destroyed by the British conquerors, save for the Tooth Relic Temple, which is the main draw for Kandy.
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I was really tempted by Stage 1 of the Pekoe Trail, but the weather was hot, so we opted for the Three Temple Loop walk outside Kandy, a 7km walk that connects the Embekke, Lankathilake, and Gadaladeniya Buddhist temples all dating from the 14th century. It turned out to be a good outing. I was amazed by the wood carving at Embekke: 1)old wooden structures rarely survive - they must be rainforest wood 2)the intricate carvings are reminiscent of stone carvings from the same period in church cloisters in Europe - but these are finer.
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Lankathilake is particularly photogenic, embellished with elephant sculptures coming out of the walls, and it also has a Hindu side. Hmmmm. There was some ritual going on, which we didn't quite understand until we visited the Tooth Relic Temple.
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Gadaladeniya Temple, apparently in perpetual renovation, is known for its ancient stone carvings. Today, the nearby villages are known for their brasswork (see below).
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572391832/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Brass Smith - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572391832_e9d99f9546_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Brass Smith - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572981138/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572981138_ef3f6c0bce_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The amazing carvings on the wooden columns: "Wrestlers, Swans, Lion and Elephant Fight, Warrior" </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572780691/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Wrestlers - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572780691_6764151a63_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Wrestlers - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573222050/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Swans - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573222050_a6af88679a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Swans - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572780041/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lion vs Elephant Fight - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572780041_9de6ec5fcd_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lion vs Elephant Fight - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572780011/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Elephant (L) and Lion vs Elephant Fight (R) - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572780011_4ab61c8b41_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Elephant (L) and Lion vs Elephant Fight (R) - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573101859/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573101859_f5b9b30053_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573221910/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573221910_7ee44d6f84_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There was a rice granary in the temple complex. Rice = wealth = power. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573101864/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Granary - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573101864_2ea69bebcc_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Granary - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> One of the several Buddha images. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571916987/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Buddha Image - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571916987_6ce85eac08_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Buddha Image - Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A well-behaved, 4-bus-load group of school kids came in as we were leaving. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571916762/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571916762_ca6f93c120_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Embekka Dewalaya Buddhist Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> On the walk to the second temple we passed a mosque, a White-Throated Kingfisher, a traditional <i>pambaya</i> (traditional Sri Lankan scarecrow with a realistic head), and farmers harvesting rice. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573027113/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Mosque - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573027113_167908b9d3_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Mosque - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573265920/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="White-Throated Kingfisher - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573265920_35b8a98d00_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="White-Throated Kingfisher - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571960982/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Pambaya (Scarecrow) - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571960982_fb4aab7853_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Pambaya (Scarecrow) - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571960987/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Rice Harvest - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571960987_42244797d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Rice Harvest - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573026853/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Rice Harvest - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573026853_909c8ace16_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Rice Harvest - Three Temple Loop Walk between Embekke Devalaya and Lankathilaka - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Lankathilaka Temple is perched on the top of a large rock outcrop - large not huge. Later in the trip we would see huge. The south approach has steps cut out of the granite. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573286460/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573286460_a537b013e6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571981327/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571981327_64a7922c97_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> This temple also had a granary. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573286415/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Granary - Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573286415_2a55653c61_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Granary - Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There was a ceremony in action when we arrived, similar but way smaller than the one we would see in Kandy the next day. Check out the elephants coming out of the wall in the upper right (below). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573050803/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573050803_7412df491d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The temple is a brilliant white so in the photos below it's hard to see the elephant sculptures in the walls. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573166269/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573166269_52b270b4d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571989607/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571989607_d845e8bed0_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Guardians and Doors. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573045863/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Guardians at the Temple Entrance - Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573045863_acc78fd166_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Guardians at the Temple Entrance - Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>The innermost room of the temple and its three large images of the Buddha. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571980672/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571980672_450b94b7b3_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573285680/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573285680_b10a17ce68_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lankathilaka Buddhist and Hindu Temple - Three Temples Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And another few kilometers down the road to Gadaladeniya, the last of the three temples. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573458133/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Gadaladeniya Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573458133_1cebcf34ee_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Gadaladeniya Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572392612/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Gadaladeniya Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572392612_90ac78fc0d_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Gadaladeniya Temple - Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We ride a local bus back to Kandy... </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53572392457/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53572392457_d6d9e4f2d8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Three Temple Loop Walk - near Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> ... and relax at the hotel pool. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53573576484/in/album-72177720315262042/" title="Hotel Pool - Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53573576484_3b67b6f6d1_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hotel Pool - Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-35449106074480951652024-03-06T04:11:00.000-05:002024-03-06T04:37:46.377-05:00Sri Lanka: Ella to Kandy by TrainThe Ella to Kandy train was much touted. We made our reservation on the day it opened, i.e. 30 days ahead. Curiously our car was only 2/3 full, while the unreserved cars were really crowded. Per internet consensus, we were booked in second class, i.e. non AC, for better viewing - it was true.
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The 163 km journey took our train 7 hours! It may have been one of our slowest train rides, but certainly one of the most amazing ones. Much of the ride, at least the first 100km we were going through what seemed like continuous tea terraces. I never imagined such quantities of tea!
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The railway of course was originally constructed for the benefits of the planters of coffee. Then in the mid 1800s a fungal disease devastated the coffee plantations. By 1900 all the fields were converted to tea with export level approaching that of India. If it were not for the coffee blite, would Brits have the same tea habit? Yet tea production is down from peak level and income from tea exports is less than one third of tourism and one tenth of worker remittances.
<br><br><b> At Ella Station, it's mostly tourists waiting for the Kandy-bound train. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569555609/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Ella Railway Station Platform - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569555609_a9623da0b7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ella Railway Station Platform - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53568378687/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Ella Railway Station Platform - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53568378687_1a006968da_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ella Railway Station Platform - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Cameras ready. And some daredevils are literally hanging off the train. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569670155/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569670155_4b3986b25e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53568377922/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53568377922_653834f9a9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569230756/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569230756_cb3116c7de_z.jpg" width="640" height="537" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571116050/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571116050_940dffe1b7_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Although most of the agricultural land we saw was tea plantations, there were also small plots of rice and vegetables. First below is a <i>pambaya</i>, a scarecrow constructed in the likeness of a man, with an earthen pot or motorcycle helmet used for the semi-realistic head.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570618336/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Pambaya: A scarecrow built in the likeness of a man - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570618336_956e263ac6_z.jpg" width="640" height="426" alt="Pambaya: A scarecrow built in the likeness of a man - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569231321/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Rice Paddy - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569231321_68c1abd818_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Rice Paddy - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570943289/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570943289_a78109ed98_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569760867/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569760867_19bb4e277e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569759737/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569759737_0a0f20c621_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Station Master at Diyatalawa Station </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570574151/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Station Master at Diyatalawa Station - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570574151_1802ba7d9e_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Station Master at Diyatalawa Station - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> More than a few tunnels. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571010365/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571010365_40a7f7e3b7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Fun passing trains going in the opposite direction. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571010355/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571010355_7007fe770f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571115920/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571115920_b7b34152ef_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53571010160/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53571010160_33ef9a099b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Pattipola, the highest Railway Station in Sri Lanka @ 1891 m.a.s.l.; about 6000 feet. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569760792/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Pattipola, the highest Railway Station in Sri Lanka @ 1891 m.a.s.l. - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569760792_a8e9965869_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Pattipola, the highest Railway Station in Sri Lanka @ 1891 m.a.s.l. - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Elgin Falls </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570816458/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Elgin Falls - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570816458_0c386dd261_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Elgin Falls - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The tea plantations! The one minute video first below gives a good idea of the beauty of the landscape, and the feeling of riding the train through it. Check it out! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570683781/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Video - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53570683781_41b6f7e48f_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Video - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569821872/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569821872_ab379627af_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570618726/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570618726_7a58e24b0f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570941894/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570941894_2fdc7ab577_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569822052/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569822052_acc53f652d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tea Plantation - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In Sri Lanka, one is never very far from a cricket pitch of some form. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53569821992/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="Cricket Pitch - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53569821992_fb4fe9437b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Cricket Pitch - On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And after 7 hours Sun-Ling gets off the train in Kandy. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53570680181/in/album-72177720315239982/" title="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53570680181_418af65bae_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Ella to Kandy, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Finally, a 2015 photo from Kanchanaburi, Thailand to show that when you put tourists on a scenic train, it's the same all around the world.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/16454964007/in/photostream/" title="Kanchanaburi, Thailand"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/8678/16454964007_4833587be9_z.jpg" width="425" height="640" alt="Kanchanaburi, Thailand"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-68624699154085514272024-03-05T06:06:00.003-05:002024-03-06T03:24:12.615-05:00Sri Lanka: EllaElla is in the central highlands of the island. What must have an obscure village is now a sprawling tourist center, filled with tour groups and Intagram-enthusiasts from all over the world.. At ~1000 m.a.s.l., the weather (daytime high upper 70s) seemed rather refreshing to us, after the last two weeks of equatorial heat. We were ready for a little walking and hiking the area affords us.
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The first day we walked to Little Adam's Peak, so named because its shape resembles the more well-known Adam's Peak, which has a hollow resembling a giant human footprint, much revered and draws pilgrims from all religions - we gave that one a miss.
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Then I discovered the <a href="https://www.thepekoetrailsrilanka.com/the-pekoe-trail/" target="_blank">Pekoe Trail</a>, a 300km long distance trail. The next day we took a ride hailing car to the Stage 15 trail head in Makulella (also reachable by public bus), and walked back to Ella via the Ella Rock Viewpoint. The day after, we walked Stage 16 from Ella to Demodara and took the train back.
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At first I was appalled at seeing some of the more straggly tea terraces. Then I read that tea was only introduced to Sri Lanka by the British in 1824, and making bagged black tea is not as stringent as loose green tea. I blocked out my Chinese tea terrace standards out of my head, I began to really enjoy seeing the verdant tea terraces.
<br><br><b> Our bus from Galle to Ella left at 5:10am (1st below). Oh my! Super early, however we caught dawn and sunrise over the Indian Ocean (2nd and 3rd below) from the bus window. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53562514053/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="5 AM @ Galle Bus Station - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53562514053_6bc90cd7bf_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="5 AM @ Galle Bus Station - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53562514683/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Dawn - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53562514683_acf12f87fe_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Dawn - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53562643714/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Sunrise - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53562643714_cb43743635_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Sunrise - On the Bus from Gale to Ella, Sri Lanks"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Little Adam's Peak is very accessible to tour groups. Also, at the base of final slope, there are several Instagram Photo Spots - there was no lack of IG Enthusiasts in Ella - including a Mega Zip Line, and a Giant Swing. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563069341/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563069341_a2706b2d4e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563262483/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563262483_7bf4af111f_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563261018/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563261018_15fe54c131_c.jpg" width="800" height="533" alt="Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>The view from the top of LAP. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563391084/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563391084_16db0d061d_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Little Adams Peak - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> By chance Fruity Coco Cafe caught our eye and we tucked into a masala dosa cone, and a veg kottu (lower right)... </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563391809/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Dinner at Fruity Coco - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563391809_9c1b861910_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dinner at Fruity Coco - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> ... and on our way back to the guest house bought some rambutans from the back of a truck, bananas from a stall, and fresh eggs from a box. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563391769/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Buying Rambutans - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563391769_2f07347151_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Buying Rambutans - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564451106/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail near Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564451106_46aa1e379e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail near Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563508600/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Egg Lady - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563508600_a5153401c0_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Egg Lady - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Breakfast on the veranda with tow Sri Lanka Grey Hornbills for company. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564639348/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill seen from our Guesthouse Veranda - Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564639348_d2cac5975d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill seen from our Guesthouse Veranda - Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Stage 15 of the Pekoe trail began on a logging road in Makulella. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564640538/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564640538_104accd00e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563593247/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563593247_85b36265d0_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564887045/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564887045_7ecfffa67b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And took us up to Ella Rock with an awesome view back to Little Adam's Peak. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564640048/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="View from Ella Rock to Little Adams Peak - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564640048_2b5db3f082_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from Ella Rock to Little Adams Peak - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564451606/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="View from Ella Rock to Little Adams Peak - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564451606_f33ff84d5d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="View from Ella Rock to Little Adams Peak - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We take a short detour off the main trail to catch a view of Small Rawana Waterfall and the Railroad (center up) Bridge. And promtly got lost in the high grass for a few minutes </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53563592507/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Small Rawana Waterfall and Railroad (center up) Bridge - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563592507_71e9480351_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Small Rawana Waterfall and Railroad (center up) Bridge - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564639888/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Almost Lost - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564639888_2d7c0378f7_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Almost Lost - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Then it's a slow 3km walk on the RR tracks back to Ella Station. Fortunately one can hear the train before it comes by. ;-) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564451456/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564451456_fd96beac72_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564450761/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564450761_8fb6cc6c1e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564451316/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564451316_8212daf106_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the Railroad Tracks on Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Makulella to Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53564451306/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Ella Railway Station - Walking the Railroad Tracks - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail near Ella, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564451306_b9ff130d66_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ella Railway Station - Walking the Railroad Tracks - Walking Stage 15 of the long distance Pekoe Trail near Ella, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Stage 16 started in Ella at the Nine Arches Bridge, fairly quiet now, but crowded when trains are scheduled pass through. And that will be us in several hours. ;-) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566737315/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566737315_708673e603_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566619629/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566619629_571fa0d1e8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566619564/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566619564_69874ef824_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> Most of Stage 16 is on tea plantation roads. That's a plus as the view is almost always amazing. We're pretty sure we spotted a woolly-necked stork soaring across the valley (2nd below).</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566734875/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566734875_1f546e2c99_c.jpg" width="800" height="351" alt="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566490933/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Woolly-Necked Stork Flying Above - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566490933_7123cf91ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Woolly-Necked Stork Flying Above - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> At one point there was a View back to Ella Rock (left center). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566736230/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="View back to Ella Rock (left center) - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566736230_ae5c76f68a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="View back to Ella Rock (left center) - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In Demodera Estate Tea Plantation, the work supervisor was a sight from the past with stick, checkered blue shirt, blue kneesocks, and khaki shorts. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566489613/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Tea Plantation Supervisor - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566489613_b01404256c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Tea Plantation Supervisor - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566491528/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566491528_5fb9869d05_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566489508/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Demodera Estate Tea Plantation - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566489508_2f52e6d079_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Demodera Estate Tea Plantation - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Soon we were in Demodera with a perfect view down to the station. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566300811/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Demodara Railway Station - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566300811_42c93de945_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Demodara Railway Station - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There was plenty of time to catch the 11:45 train, headed to Ella over the Nine Arches Bridge, and filled with enthusiasts of all sorts (including SL). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566736070/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566736070_dc0edd866b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566736245/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Video - On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53566736245_12f44ee009_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Video - On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566618624/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566618624_239e5f42b7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53566616599/in/album-72177720315175631/" title="Crossing the Nine Arches Bridge n the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53566616599_58a493036b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Crossing the Nine Arches Bridge n the train from Demodara to Ella - Walking Stage 16 of the long distance Pekoe Trail from Ella to Demodara, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-36913305432360413462024-03-01T08:57:00.001-05:002024-03-01T09:11:00.892-05:00Sri Lanka: GalleOn the 2nd day of the Lunar New Year, we flew from HCMC to Colombo via Kuala Lumpur. From the airport we took a transfer directly to Galle, the first stop of our Sri Lanka tour. We are having a circuitous route for Sri Lanka as we plan to catch a temple festival in Colombo on the February full moon.
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We had only been wanting to come to Sri Lanka for almost 30 years. First there was the civil war 1983-2009 that kept us away. Then we were trying to minimize flying. COVID heightened our urgency to travel and explore new countries, making Sri Landa number 82 for us.
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Galle is at the extreme southwest corner of the island (6 degrees north of the Equator = always hot), and had been the major port of the island until the Portuguese, Dutch, and British came, each leaving their marks, the largest of which is Galle Fort. With the rise of Colombo, Galle became a backwater. I imagine Galle Fort has changed very little since the British left. I found Galle Fort, with its massive ramparts, surrounded on three sides by water, rather atmospheric.
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One day we took the train 50 km north along the west coast to Bentota, and returned on the bus. While I wasn't particularly impressed with Bentota, I thought the aquamarine water a little farther south was particularly beautiful. There were many signs relating to turtles hatching along the way. Regardless of their good intentions, ultimately sea turtles are victims of humans' zeal for beach developments - turtles do not come ashore to lay eggs if there is any kind of hubbub.
<br><br><b> The massive ramparts of Galle Fort with clocktower (1st below) and Main Gate just to the right of the traffic circle (2nd) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557649878/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galle Fort Ramparts and Clock Tower - Galle, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557649878_f7dff8b4b5_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Galle Fort Ramparts and Clock Tower - Galle, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557649633/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galle Fort Ramparts - Galle, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557649633_201fcb8734_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Galle Fort Ramparts - Galle, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Just outside the Main Gate is the Galle International Cricket Stadium. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557649723/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galle International Cricket Stadium - Galle, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557649723_8a751f2ff8_z.jpg" width="640" height="320" alt="Galle International Cricket Stadium - Galle, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Every evening we walked the ramparts at sunset, enjoying the cooling breeze, and often bringing a takeaway dinner or snacks with us.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557787144/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Modest Sunset - Galle, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557787144_47d329ed94_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Modest Sunset - Galle, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559359383/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Snack - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559359383_320fbff3d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Snack - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559358928/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Sunset - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559358928_28e35b7653_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sunset - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> From the ramparts, one can see the lighthouse, the main mosque (looks like a cathedral, no?), and tourists enjoying the view. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557561091/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557561091_b39f11751c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557561161/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Meeran Jumma Mosque - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557561161_8f4855e1a7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Meeran Jumma Mosque - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557759093/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557759093_a7a6e62047_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559359628/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559359628_3b82482f2e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Inside the fort ramparts are the British-built All Saints' Anglican Church (1st below) and the Dutch Reform Church (2nd below). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557759843/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="All Saints' Anglican Church - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557759843_3e6768cee6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="All Saints' Anglican Church - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557561711/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557561711_be4f505e85_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Our guesthouse was on a colonnaded street inside The Fort. The view from our balcony is first below. There was an Arabic College just one block away (3rd below: students returning to class). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558014145/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="View from our Balcony - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558014145_609b29cd1c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from our Balcony - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53556601097/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Colonnaded Buildings - Galle, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53556601097_d4961ee1b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Colonnaded Buildings - Galle, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559492079/in/photolist-q7NPN8-w7prBs-2pASp1B-2pASYeG-36PdTy-tSRymn-uxfmb2-uPGukB-v44s7G-w7pEEw-7sAs6o-2j62U9R-2j8qN1W/" title="Returning to Arabic College - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559492079_b433a473ce_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Returning to Arabic College - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Our fav resto Galu Bojuna, just a few meters outside the Old Gate (3rd below), was frequented by locals and tourists. The rice and veg curry was extremely tasty. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559359263/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galu Bojuna Restaurant - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559359263_b2cc628f79_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Galu Bojuna Restaurant - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559161086/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Galu Bojuna Restaurant - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559161086_573b35a9a5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Galu Bojuna Restaurant - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558012980/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Old Gate - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558012980_7d54eb63f9_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Old Gate - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Not to mention our fav snack stand across from the train and bus stations. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559492354/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Fast Food near the Bus Stand - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559492354_b465f437e0_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Fast Food near the Bus Stand - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558300527/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Fast Food near the Bus Stand - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558300527_74f0208412_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Fast Food near the Bus Stand - Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> One day we rode the train north along the coast to Bentota, walked on the beach for 15 minutes, and took the bus back. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558456777/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558456777_aaec040af7_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559514743/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559514743_2f7ac1c8c8_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558456882/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558456882_508bd3b23c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559516973/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53559516973_621a320f3b_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53558456372/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53558456372_932d56d2fa_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559647049/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559647049_f069063f01_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the train from Galle Fort to Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559473486/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="The Beach - Bentota, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559473486_990156bba9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="The Beach - Bentota, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559916380/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the Bus from Bentota to Galle,, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559916380_c9a536583d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus from Bentota to Galle,, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53559670163/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="On the Bus from Bentota to Galle,, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53559670163_ab106b904b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus from Bentota to Galle,, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Here's an Art Deco Villa we spotted inside the Fort. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557562156/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Art Deco Villa - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557562156_32cee2237c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Art Deco Villa - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Also, the S.M.I.T, (Southern Maritime Training Institute, is just across the street from our fav resto. They have an orange submarine (2nd below) = cool.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557896154/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557896154_7bedacd97b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557759298/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557759298_de2d11af27_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Wildlife report: we spotted an iguana near the Maritime Museum. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557561781/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557561781_3deab1ee10_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53557760058/in/album-72177720315136744/" title="Maritime Museum - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53557760058_7ac62bfb9c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Maritime Museum - Morning Walk Around Galle Fort, Sri Lanka"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-27267161593764956352024-02-27T09:37:00.003-05:002024-02-27T22:31:27.333-05:00Vietnam: Around town HCMC (Saigon)Ho Chi Minh City is much changed in the last 20 years. It is almost unrecognizable. There are now many tall buildings. The Saigon River has a tunnel.
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Weather was hot. We connected as many segments of shady sides of the street to check out some colonial buildings, some are art deco. The surprise parts were a mosque, and a few Hindu temples that were established by Indian communities brought by the French by way of Pondicherry.
<br><br><b> Saigon hardcore street photography. First, the Ice Man ;-). Second Sightseeing bus. Third, Vintage Citroën DS. Fourth, Japan Town. And more.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53542408227/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="The Iceman's Moto - Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53542408227_15ac96fe60_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="The Iceman's Moto - Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53542410627/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53542410627_c05aa5e96c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547432566/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Citroën DS - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547432566_440fe20ece_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Citroën DS - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53551364095/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Japan Town - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53551364095_386aed78fe_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Japan Town - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53544870535/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53544870535_ee436d4fd9_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53544762694/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53544762694_52a48011f2_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53549241370/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53549241370_5f2b919f53_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Some well known buildings. First, the French Colonial, Art Nouveau-ish, Post Office, and Second, its letter/postcard writing desks. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53544618893/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Post Office - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53544618893_831453c045_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Post Office - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543565002/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Post Office - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543565002_c0662ba5e6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Post Office - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Independence Palace (former Presidential Palace). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53549240920/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Independence Palace - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53549240920_1e36c8ab28_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Independence Palace - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Clinique Saint-Paul </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547099788/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Clinique Saint-Paul - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547099788_bfd1a4fe8b_z.jpg" width="640" height="289" alt="Clinique Saint-Paul - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> French Navy Building (Bâtiment de la Marine Nationale), designed in 1938 by Paul Veysseyre </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550051032/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="French Navy Building (Bâtiment de la Marine Nationale) - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550051032_5fd8707d0a_z.jpg" width="640" height="320" alt="French Navy Building (Bâtiment de la Marine Nationale) - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Lesser known buildings. First, the mosque behind our hotel. Second, the Hilton (L) and the Vietcombank Tower (R), across the street from our hotel. Third, Marie Curie High School.( </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53544619673/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53544619673_c18d744b5d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53545381273/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Hilton (L), Vietcombank Tower (R) - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53545381273_20aaf14911_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Hilton (L), Vietcombank Tower (R) - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53548805221/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Marie Curie High School - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53548805221_f37e591331_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Marie Curie High School - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>A couple of our vegan meals. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53545634370/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53545634370_cc0e677b82_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550915341/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Vegan Lunch - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550915341_a8c36345d9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vegan Lunch - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Hindu Temple (1st below) with a short video (2nd below) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547102683/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Hindu Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547102683_5df3552f56_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hindu Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547209384/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Very Short Video of a Ceremony - Hindu Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53547209384_240ed10cfe_z.jpg" width="360" height="640" alt="Very Short Video of a Ceremony - Hindu Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> John in the hotel pool, and a view of the Saigon River from the pool deck. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547935792/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Hotel Pool - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547935792_ab051b9470_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hotel Pool - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547932577/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="View from Hotel Pool - Tet - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547932577_8af8e6ceeb_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="View from Hotel Pool - Tet - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-12397041389777797542024-02-25T09:27:00.000-05:002024-02-25T09:33:49.257-05:00Vietnam: Tet in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)We have noticed Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration, preparation all throughout Vietnam, and when we arrived in HCMC three days before Tet, everything was in full swing. The main alameda, September 23rd , has been turned into a flower market. The pedastrian street Nguyễn Huệ has been transformed into the Flower Street. I think they do this for Tet every year.
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This year's theme is of course, Dragon. We arrived just hours before Flower Street opened. Since our hotel was only a block away, we walked on Flower Street quite a few times, and there were always many excited people enjoying the flower displays. There is not a more worthy public good! By all measures Vietnam is a poor country. Why can't we have such public goods in rich countries?! Vietnamese may not have a lot of money, but there is such abundance of beauty.
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At midnight on New Year's Eve, there were 15 minutes of fireworks that drew a lot of people. Traffic was horrendous with all the motorbikes. Micromobility may seem like a good idea. There is still parking to solve. The first line of the metro has been constructed, due to open in the middle of this year.
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On the first (New Year's Day), we happened to walk into a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_dance">Lion Dance</a> team <i>in action</i> first thing in the morning. We watched the non-stop action for an hour before continuing on our way to the super crowded Jade Emperor Temple. The idea is to show up at temples early in the year to burn incense or candles to bring good luck and fortune for the new year. John used to say "to see the old ways of China go to Taiwan". Now I'm thinking "go to Vietnam".
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The one inconvenience of Tet is that quite a few of the restaurants are closed (1st below), or operating at reduced hours. understandable - it's a time to be with family. Those that are open, often charge a surcharge. We are glad people are enjoying the holiday. Vietnamese seem to be exceedingly hard working.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543459258/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543459258_9f9f4acec9_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Ourselfies - On the Daytime Sleeper Bus from Dalat to Saigon. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543593149/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Ourselfies - On the Daytime Sleeper Bus from Dalat to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543593149_07b78c752d_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Ourselfies - On the Daytime Sleeper Bus from Dalat to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Our hotel, the Sevana City Annex, was about 1.5 kms from the bus station. On the walk we passed through the Tet flower market. Wow! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543716475/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543716475_ac25441da7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543604664/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543604664_8cce404d78_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543464253/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543464253_c85c79b960_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543282001/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543282001_fa08aa7839_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Last minute preparations for the so-called Flower Street </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543603574/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543603574_859dd51d71_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543710250/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543710250_ddce44b866_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Every afternoon and evening the Flower Street was packed with people. Our hotel was just 3 minutes away; we walked on Flower Street more than several times. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546934259/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546934259_69f2ddeede_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543715695/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543715695_1c039b0a75_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53542410507/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53542410507_4679e67b1a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543279416/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543279416_06cfc46afa_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53543601924/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53543601924_bc4894832f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53545382528/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Flower Street - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53545382528_7a59f79304_c.jpg" width="800" height="208" alt="Tet Flower Street - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53545193546/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Flower Street - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53545193546_4720e052bb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet Flower Street - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546793458/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546793458_2e326ee69a_c.jpg" width="450" height="800" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Many locals, especially women, put on their finest for Tet. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546792418/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546792418_25f566d6f2_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546604666/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546604666_e63d85a095_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Flower Street ran from the Saigon River to the City Hall (Hotel de Ville). There were a few low-key performances at the City Hall end.. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546804298/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546804298_b1077c79d8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53545643140/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Short Video - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53545643140_a2ec1a4eae_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Short Video - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53546601966/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53546601966_bf390c6df4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547052340/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Hotel de Ville (City Hall) - Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547052340_80b34dc855_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hotel de Ville (City Hall) - Tet Festival - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Waiting for the midnight Tet Fireworks along the Saigon River. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547932302/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Waiting for Tet Fireworks - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53547932302_b6deb6383e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Waiting for Tet Fireworks - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53547939757/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Fireworks - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53547939757_41a2d3ff52_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Tet Fireworks - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Lion Dance for Golden Lotus Spa and Massage Club. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550817736/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Lion Dance Video - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53550817736_10948907a6_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Tet Lion Dance Video - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550892251/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550892251_3ed3e4d785_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550892381/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550892381_4d5dd74604_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550026672/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550026672_835b95a6ce_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53551086708/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53551086708_f1618d80e7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tet Lion Dance - Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple was very busy. We noted that the images inside the main temple were kinda dark and foreboding, not colorful as in a Buddhist temple. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53551112938/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53551112938_9ec78c4b16_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550919646/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550919646_61c3f935e8_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53551362310/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53551362310_54f4145017_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53550918316/in/album-72177720314939607/" title="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53550918316_2e43ef005d_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Jade Emperor Pagoda Taoist Temple - Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-43456875900504756092024-02-21T05:38:00.002-05:002024-02-21T05:45:49.178-05:00Vietnam: DalatDalat has been on radar forever, as it is the name of the restaurant that introduced us to Vietnamese food. It was a hill station started by the French at 1500 masl. I was so hot in the blazing sun, I really could not feel any coolness such altitude was supposed to afford us.
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Today Dalat is a sprawling city that seems to extend forever - John was pretty disappointed. Why isn't Dalat the second largest city in Vietnam?! It certainly felt that way. I too would have written Dalat off if it weren't for the art deco villa of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam, plus a few other interesting colonial buildings.
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There was no fresh mountain air. In fact, the air was terrible as the Lunar New Year (Tet) is approaching, everyone seems to be remembering their ancestors by burning big piles of paper money, paper clothing, paper cars, paper houses(?); that is, whatever the deceased might need on the other side!
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Nevertheless Dalat is hugely popular with tourists judging by the dizzying number of hotels. Maybe everyone is doing whatever artificial tourist traps await them in the surrounding areas.
<br><br><b> We arrived in Dalat around noon and were ready for a couple of bowls of vegan pho for lunch. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536471963/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536471963_2095f702df_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Dalat's Night Market was crowded, smoky, and hot. We grabbed some chay (vegan) street food, and watched the local kids (4th below) and delivery drivers (5th).</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536712305/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Night Market- Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536712305_0eeb044ac9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Night Market- Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53535407587/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53535407587_c386f3e28c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536286571/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536286571_25b8c3f9d7_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536711585/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="All Three Kids want to drive while the folks pick up the take out - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536711585_3dd3932aba_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="All Three Kids want to drive while the folks pick up the take out - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536286576/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536286576_13b068eb44_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536607204/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536607204_95080b403a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Adjacent to the night market was a "field" of yellow potted chrysanthemums put in place for Tet. Wow! And nearby, temporary stalls to buy special Tet items like decorated mellons (2nd below). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536471138/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536471138_93d550674b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> And we finsished up the evening with a cold snack. </b><br>
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<br><br><b> We spent only one full day in Dalat and wore ourselves out with a self-guided architectural walking tour starting with the Crazy House. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53538267513/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Crazy House - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53538267513_8655c9c622_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Crazy House - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Institut Pasteur de Dalat </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53538266188/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Institut Pasteur de Dalat - Colonial Architecture - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53538266188_7aa94c61c6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Institut Pasteur de Dalat - Colonial Architecture - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Bao Dai Summer Palace 3, designed by architect Paul Veysseyre. The interior, decorated classic 1950's, is bright and airy. The exterior has some of the best horizontal lines in Asia. Veysseyre was one of the top architects in Shanghai and Indochina. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53539991877/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Bao Dai Summer Palace 3 - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53539991877_d0794a8e31_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="Bao Dai Summer Palace 3 - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> St. Nicholas Cathedral </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53540298717/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="St. Nicholas Cathedral - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53540298717_024513c578_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="St. Nicholas Cathedral - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>The Du Parc Hotel Dalat and its elevator. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541179026/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Du Parc Hotel Dalat - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541179026_748857aee1_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Du Parc Hotel Dalat - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<br><br><b> The terraces of Dalat Palace Hotel slope down to the lake. </b><br>
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<br><br><b> The Pedagogical College of Dalat. And some townhouse just outside the college. </b><br>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541500744/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541500744_f19cc589ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station), no longer operates as a station, but has been fixed up for train enthusiats and tourists with a cafe, souvenir shops, and a sightseeing train that runs several times a day. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541177501/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541177501_7f4df2b44d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541601980/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541601980_d8277ca0ce_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541501989/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541501989_f4b8f911e4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53541601835/in/album-72177720314873823/" title="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541601835_2e869f22e9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ga Dalat (Dalat Railway Station) - Dalat, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br> <div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-23683405468344515232024-02-18T06:41:00.000-05:002024-02-18T06:45:41.546-05:00Vietnam: Nha TrangAfter Danang, our next aim is Nha Trang, Vietnam's number one beach destination. Now we are far south, the rice fields are much further along (1st below). They probably could grow rice year round here. Now that we know something about Cham towers, we spotted at least three of them in the distance from the train (2nd below).
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532752933/in/album-72177720314822356/" title="Rice Paddies - On the Train from Danang to Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532752933_a8022e69da_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Rice Paddies - On the Train from Danang to Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532575586/in/album-72177720314822356/" title="Cham Tower - On the Train from Danang to Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532575586_c0ffed16d7_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Cham Tower - On the Train from Danang to Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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At sunset we had just reached Tuy Hoa, and stopped to break up the journey. By chance we noticed on the map that they too have a Cham tower and is illuminated at night. Such dumb luck! You can spot Sun-Ling at lower left in the photo below.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532959449/in/album-72177720314822356/" title="Cham Tower - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532959449_6678aff95c_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Cham Tower - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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The view from the Cham Tower of the Tuy Hoa river inlet and the South China Sea beyond.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53533067060/in/album-72177720314822356/" title="View to the Sea - Cham Tower - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53533067060_6c89fae719_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="View to the Sea - Cham Tower - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Tuy Hoa has a Giant Buddha. You can spot his white head in the photo below.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532759903/in/album-72177720314822356/" title="Buddhist Temple with Giant White Buddha - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532759903_9636c4358e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Buddhist Temple with Giant White Buddha - Tuy Hoa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Each of the cities we stopped along the coast are set at a river outlet, with the city, and its train station on the land side. Nha Trang is an exception. Its train station is 1.5km from the beach, so we took a beachfront room with a sunrise view (below) for a change.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53536494418/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Sunrise View from our Hotel - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53536494418_7843047895_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Sunrise View from our Hotel - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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It turns out Nha Trang has more Cham towers, and they are in active use, and possibly appropriated by Buddhists. The Cham people only get to sell their weavings and do their song and dance for tips on the side.
John joked that we could have saved expense and trouble by skipping My Son. But seriously, all the Cham sites we saw really complimented each other.
<br><br><b> Upon arriving in Nha Trang we had a tasty vegan lunch, relaxed a bit in our room, then took an evening stroll on the beach promenade. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532933588/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532933588_f773450756_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53531858402/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="The Beach - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53531858402_eec64dfb41_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="The Beach - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53532747796/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="The Beach - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53532747796_16b2287bec_z.jpg" width="640" height="320" alt="The Beach - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The hotel breakfast: Noodles and mango juice. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53533331242/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Hotel Breakfast - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53533331242_604e0ccaa6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hotel Breakfast - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534536114/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Hotel Breakfast - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534536114_2c295e0950_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Hotel Breakfast - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Cham Towers were a hot 2.5km walk to the north. First in the shade along the beach promenade, then into the sun across a bridge and over to the towers. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534399793/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534399793_f7bd867461_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534221316/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534221316_6a8e8b5cff_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>From the middle of the bridge, one can see the fishing fleet and the Cham Towers behind them on the shore. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53533330592/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53533330592_99186280d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking to the Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There was a steady stream of tourists at the Cham Towers. No wonder, they are impressive. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534536084/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534536084_d286aa963c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534535849/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534535849_55488ca685_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534534954/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534534954_e1fd385a06_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There were ongoing ceremonies at 3 of the 4 towers/temples. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534535139/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534535139_f7435aa558_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534533364/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534533364_b4f6fd6154_z.jpg" width="640" height="478" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53533329007/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53533329007_215bbf8536_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And a performance in front of a 1000 year-old Ganesh image. Take a close look above the fans on the right to spot Ganesha. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534397818/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534397818_14a6785dc7_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534533234/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Ganesh - Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534533234_f3c8e0e1e1_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Ganesh - Ponagar Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Leaving the Cham Towers, we crossed a different bridge and headed to the Long Son Buddhist Temple. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534642739/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Looking back to the Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534642739_6ff008282c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Looking back to the Cham Towers - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The weekend traffic was very, very, busy so we took a route through some alleys, festive with decorations for the upcoming Tet Lunar New Year. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53533438822/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53533438822_e4e785654a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534325901/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534325901_d74cda0843_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Ice Man was busy. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534501608/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="The Ice Man - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534501608_c660a995fb_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="The Ice Man - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Above the Long Son Buddhist Temple, there are 2 Giant Buddha images, one reclining, one seated. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534638599/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Reclining Buddha - Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534638599_8e23587904_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Reclining Buddha - Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534315936/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534315936_1c28ef783f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There is a vegetarian restaurant at the temple. We each had a rice lunch plate. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53534494863/in/album-72177720314843369/" title="Vegan/Chay Lunch Plates at Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53534494863_7079ccc938_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Vegan/Chay Lunch Plates at Long Son Pagoda Buddhist Temple - Nha Trang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> My all time favorite Giant Buddha is the one at Kamakura, Japan. This Daibutsu was cast in bronze in 1252 AD. Wow! Seen below in my 2007 photo. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/17497678944/in/album-72157653417572576/" title="Kōtoku-in - The Giant Buddha of Kamakura - The Great Buddha of Kamakura (鎌倉大仏, Kamakura Daibutsu) - IMG_0515"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/7668/17497678944_2a45a12bac_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Kōtoku-in - The Giant Buddha of Kamakura - The Great Buddha of Kamakura (鎌倉大仏, Kamakura Daibutsu) - IMG_0515"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-8628411384048479632024-02-15T04:58:00.002-05:002024-02-15T05:12:04.793-05:00Vietnam: DanangFrom Hue, Danang is a short but scenic train ride over the Hai Van Pass which forms a geographic north and south divide. Back in 2002 we got off the train in Danang and hopped on a bus directly to Hoi An, a well preserved old port town, and a major tourist magnet. In the last twenty odd years Danang has been transforming itself into a tourist destination. This time we based ourselves in Danang to have a look-around.
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It is a pleasant enough city without many attractions. It has a new dragon bridge that spits fire on the weekend nights (we didn't get to witness). It has the preeminent Cham museum (we opted to only go to the archaeological site). Its pink cathedral (See photo way below) might as well be the biggest tourist draw of all Vietnam. Then we noticed a lot of tourists are Koreans, many businesses have signs in Korean. I looked it up. There are direct flights from four different cities in Korea. This is not unlike Americans flocking to Cancun to enjoy the warm weather, tasty cuisine, and cheap price tags.
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From Danang, we took a shared transfer to visit the Cham archeological site of My Son, since we couldn't find a local bus. Since most of the independent tourists are based in Hoi An, we were first taken to Hoi An. The van took the beach road. It's now continuous resort development all the way to Hoi An, and it all happened in the last 20 years.
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We were fascinated with My Son, learning about the Chams. The Chams were an Hindunized people, originally from Borneo. They used Sanskrit to encode their Malay language. The religion and architecture are all Hindu. They reminded me of the Nabataeans that built Petra. Seeing how modern day Vietnamese people look distinctly different from their Malay neighbors, I surmise that the Chams were settlers, but not colonists. They co-existed alongside local people in the south of modern day Vietnam, with occasional skirmishes, until they were driven out by Vietnamese after a millenium. How oblivious we had been about this history!
<br><br><b> Our Danang-bound train pulls into Hue Station. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524683066/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524683066_22ed5ef5e5_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Our coach and Sun-Ling. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53523794017/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53523794017_a2f387f2db_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Countryside. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53525009654/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53525009654_b90584e754_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Hugging the coast at sea level, and then up 200 meters. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53523798097/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53523798097_feedee7031_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524859393/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524859393_aa9edebd0a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524702746/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524702746_5b44e0b134_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A very short video taken through the train window on the way from Hue to Danang. A link is <a href="https://flic.kr/p/2pxQhLF" target="_blank">here</a>. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53525131375/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53525131375_07c4bc17b3_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Back to beach level, and soon we arrive in Danang, just in time to have a vegan lunch. The steamed-in-bamboo-leaves sticky rice "things" with <i>dofu gan</i> (dry tofu) inside were new to us and an instant fav.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53523784192/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53523784192_4fbc6c2ea4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Hue to Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527056529/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527056529_a07f0369b4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53525834257/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53525834257_524be4bb54_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527056814/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527056814_3e8594df4d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> View from Mitisa Hotel Pool - You can sort of see the yellow Dragon Bridge in the center of the frame.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526911293/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="View from Mitisa Hotel Pool - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526911293_08ff63a0d1_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="View from Mitisa Hotel Pool - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Crossing the Dragon Bridge on our way to Hoi An. And cruising down the beach road. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527319510/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527319510_af2de11ffb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527063868/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527063868_5af48110e3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Hoi An gets loads of tourists. US Army jeep tour anyone? </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527198404/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527198404_5625f37269_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Tending the Rice Paddies </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527063228/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Tending the Rice Paddies - On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527063228_0fccdfdebc_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tending the Rice Paddies - On the Vans from Danang to Hoi An to My Son, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Just a few photos from My Son to show the Hindu Temple ruins, some like 2nd below are unexcavated.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527342740/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527342740_870ba86218_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526911176/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526911176_4160f9b64a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527091118/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527091118_3c7a993c66_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527075308/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527075308_06b418e0c0_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527329695/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527329695_ebf95c3fb6_z.jpg" width="550" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> This lingam, a phallic-shaped symbol of Shiva, is a Vietnamese National Monument. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527219394/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527219394_d19d0b5132_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Nandi the Bull. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527093848/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527093848_e8d25ebea9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Inner Sanctum (1st below). A modest version of ones we've seen in India (2nd below - in Trichy). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526915906/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526915906_262fd2c900_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/3289694143/in/photolist-61Gxsx-61GyKi-61LJ1m-61LMqf-eMTffV-eMTgG8-eMTo3M-eMTufX-eMTvhF-eN5Hjy-eN5M4h-eN5SM3-eN5ZWs-eUEbP2-f3pkB4-f3pqgg-f3Dhof-f3DwgJ-61Gyka-61LKis-61LLfu-eN5RdC-f3p6bB-rSVco-sKDs6-5UFzmX-5WTunH-5WXJQs-5XqwZ7-5XBRNr-5XBUgn-5XBV1c-5XBVCK-5XG7Yd-5XG8CJ-5XG9e3-5XGbU1-7GuBeV-7GuBop-7Gyxt7-7GyxE1-7KggxF-7Kgh4R-f3peJp-f3pvsX-f3Dnuw-f3DJtJ-upSYpX-uLJDdm-sKJof" title="Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple - Srirangam, Trichy, India"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/3416/3289694143_eb51eec166_c.jpg" width="800" height="531" alt="Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple - Srirangam, Trichy, India"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The site is well-signed, not only with info on the architure and functions of the Hindu temples, but of the 100 years of archaeological digs at the site. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527230294/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527230294_e3d42d8868_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53525995637/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53525995637_12ba28dce8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527083038/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527083038_ccd256d1d9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Reliefs of Shiva. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527335155/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527335155_5983216b8f_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526000847/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526000847_e4de121048_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526899886/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526899886_56da8e1499_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Image of a lion with an elephant's head </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53526000192/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53526000192_d7675da362_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> There was a well attended, free, song and dance performance inside the site. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53525993782/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53525993782_2db688009e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="My Son Sanctuary - Shiva Temples of the Cham People - My Son, vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We were back in Danang in time for a tasty vegan late lunch. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53528862309/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Vegan (Chay) Dinner - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53528862309_2fd64d79d1_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vegan (Chay) Dinner - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53528547646/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Vegan (Chay) Dinner - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53528547646_ee508a7944_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vegan (Chay) Dinner - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Architecture in the streets of Danang. First below is the pink Cathedral SL mentioned above. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527054799/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527054799_6317d3e45f_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527647677/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527647677_e2041922c3_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53528975820/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Architecture - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53528975820_ba7d981a1e_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Architecture - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527048939/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527048939_a77706195e_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Dragon Bridge at Night </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53528723433/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Dragon Bridge at Night - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53528723433_e9d0295364_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Dragon Bridge at Night - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We have a beer and a cold water near the hotel swimming pool and enjoy the night view. So far, the beers I've tried in Vietnam are, well, terrible.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527639457/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Mitisa Hotel and Swimming Pool - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527639457_f1bc135d2c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mitisa Hotel and Swimming Pool - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Finally, I think this is a mobile gas station. Agree? </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53527165215/in/album-72177720314756130/" title="Gas Station - Danang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53527165215_bc935cc16b_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Gas Station - Danang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-35996669185753669082024-02-13T06:05:00.002-05:002024-02-13T06:13:49.070-05:00Vietnam: We Return to HueWe visited Hue in 2002, and I remembered being rather impressed by the IMperial Palace, styled after the Beijing Forbidden City. Though it was dilapidated, I thought it had a lot of potential. We were glad we returned, and John has managed to pronounce the name correctly (<i>Hway</i>), uncorrupted by Walter Cronkite (<i>Way</i>).
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The city of Hue seems a lot busier, as expected, and shinier, as it prepares for Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New year Festival. The Nguyen dynasty moved the capital from Hanoi to Hue in the 1800s to be more central, as it controls parts of current day Cambodia and Laos. The Imperial Palace has gone through and is still going through restoration and rebuilding. It was a very pleasant visit, strolling through the massive grounds, while contemplating unpleasant thoughts on unfettered concentration of wealth.
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A number of the Nguyen emperors also have tomb complexes in the outskirts of Hue. Factoring in admission, transportation, and dizziness, we chose to visit the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tombs, built about 100 years apart. While the older Minh Mang tomb is all classical Chinese style, the newer Khai Dinh temple/tomb sought inspiration from the French.
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Since There is no public transportation to the tombs, we ended up using the ride hailing app Grab, which we had already used in other cities. There is no negotiation necessary; pay in cash. The drivers are happy to have our business and we are happy for a fair priced ride. All the cars have been super clean and well cared for. For the comparatively low GDP, Vietnam is super functional. There are other competing apps such as Be and Maxim, but since the Vietnam eSIM we are using does not come with a local phone number, we only had success registering with Grab.
<br><br><b> Arriving at the Dong Hoi Station, we spot several other tourists heading south by train. The station crew are a bit "bundled up" in the chilly morning air. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520131226/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Train Station) - On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520131226_306ccff575_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Train Station) - On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520450524/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Train Station) - On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520450524_9756e5e264_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Train Station) - On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>More rice paddies, but being farther south, the plants are more mature. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520561020/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520561020_bb046e8bfd_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Dong Hoi to Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Tasty dinner in Hue at Lac Tam Vegan Restaurant. One of the dishes was fried mushrooms. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520566540/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Lac Tam Vegan Restaurant - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520566540_f817b89d96_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Lac Tam Vegan Restaurant - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> View from the Hue Four Seasons Hotel, a friendly, family-run, snall hotel, not the well known global brand. ;-) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53519247637/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="View from our Hotel - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53519247637_147aa14b7a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from our Hotel - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> An evening walk along the Perfume River. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520137196/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Perfume River -Bridge and Boat- Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520137196_de40dc81b4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Perfume River -Bridge and Boat- Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Photo session at the Neo Socialist Realism Lenin Monument. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520566505/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Lenin Monument - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520566505_33b5430df3_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lenin Monument - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Cyclo drivers waiting for a fare (1st below); and Cafe Culture (2nd). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53519247512/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Cyclo Drivers - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53519247512_859a1925a9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cyclo Drivers - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520566495/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Cafe Culture - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520566495_3f31ed4f11_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cafe Culture - Evening Walk - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We set off mid-morning for the Hue Imperial City. Located on the opposite bank of the Perfume River, it's a 3km walk from our hotel. The Flag Tower (below) is huge, and one can see the large red flag from a distance.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522086814/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522086814_99bd0f9d7f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Flag Tower as seen from the Meridian Gate. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521767881/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="View from Meridian Gate to the Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521767881_eeb9774e19_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from Meridian Gate to the Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522198725/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="View from Meridian Gate to the Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522198725_5e55f4823c_c.jpg" width="800" height="270" alt="View from Meridian Gate to the Flag Tower - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Meridian Gate. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520872707/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Meridian Gate - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520872707_cea0788a6d_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Meridian Gate - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521768576/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Meridian Gate - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521768576_2455207b84_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Meridian Gate - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520873202/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Our Selfies - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520873202_acbdc28653_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Our Selfies - Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Various buildings. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522199295/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522199295_f612e572cc_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520872942/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520872942_09b525eb62_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520873112/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520873112_8ca1facd5c_c.jpg" width="800" height="533" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Residence </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521938333/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521938333_d6ab3db1db_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Roof Gutter Architecture. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520872937/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520872937_75102e24bf_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Nine Dynastic Urns. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520872497/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520872497_181dafcca7_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Emperor's Reading Room. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53520872882/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53520872882_c7df3aaec7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521767586/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521767586_3e76552ba1_z.jpg" width="640" height="457" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Emperor's Garden. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521767486/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521767486_257e3c4037_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>A group ready for a cyclo tour. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522085904/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522085904_5d18cc4157_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We Order a Vegan Chè Dessert Combo [It comes with 16 different chè(s), a cup of ice, and a bowl. Compose your own chè dessert(s) in the bowl]. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522694605/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="We Order a Vegan Chè Dessert Combo [It comes with a cup of ice and a bowl. Mix your own] - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522694605_aa9b9fac79_c.jpg" width="800" height="533" alt="We Order a Vegan Chè Dessert Combo [It comes with a cup of ice and a bowl. Mix your own] - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> On our way to the Imperial Tombs, we passed the still-under-construction dragon for the Tet (Lunar New Year) Festivities. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522472213/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522472213_df5c08dc26_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Mid-20th-Century Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh sets into a hill, influenced by the Emperor's visits to France, but still following an East Asian layout; <i>feng shui hoa</i>. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522330216/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522330216_2ec13c7e76_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522733130/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522733130_613150ca0d_c.jpg" width="800" height="272" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521403087/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521403087_ab8fda488f_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522318401/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522318401_75030e5a49_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522730585/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522730585_5cee1438e8_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521402062/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521402062_ea3372b9de_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>His tomb lies 18 meters below his bronze image. Wow! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522729900/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53522729900_ea6062d510_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>And as we were leaving the sun came out for the first time in over a week - Woohoo! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53521401667/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53521401667_b80f2c499a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We GRAB a ride to the modest (for an emperor), traditional, early 19th-century, Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524248056/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524248056_5a4bd1f3fa_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524431958/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524431958_3fc2d3a4cf_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524246931/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524246931_5b46780afd_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524570579/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524570579_31b5927470_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> His tomb lies in a small circular hill surrounded by a small lake just beyond the far end of the bridge below.. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53524686475/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53524686475_ff18dc5d49_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53523355957/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53523355957_6c5976c36b_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang - Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Bonus short video: Walking across the Perfume River Bridge. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53522584664/in/album-72177720314691471/" title="Hue, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53522584664_201e02f46f_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hue, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-18026504367613690142024-02-10T03:41:00.000-05:002024-02-10T04:10:25.474-05:00Vietnam: South to Dong HoiAfter wandering around in the north of Vietnam for 3 weeks, we started heading south from Hanoi, as we are eventually flying out of Saigon. We wanted to ride the train, and only during the day. The first place to break the journey was Dong Hoi, even though we arrived an hour after sunset. In that 500 km train ride, I saw more rice paddies than my whole life combined. After China and India, Vietnam is a top rice producer. First below is a short video of the rice paddies passing by through the train window. Also we were lucky to see farmers planting rice and preparing the paddies.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654765/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Short Video - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53518654765_7f6baaa2ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Short Video - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518227006/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518227006_4e21329572_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518541409/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Planting Rice - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518541409_9fd629f201_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Planting Rice - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518541399/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Planting Rice - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518541399_4e75a90f40_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Planting Rice - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Often there is a church steeple in the distance. The French did a great job of converting the Vietnamese to Catholicism.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518227046/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Church - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518227046_a6054df60b_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Church - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Sun-Ling with mask. We were over the main pain of the flu/COVID but were coughing like crazy.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518227691/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518227691_a1c2d4ff3f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Lunch time buckets of soup and rice go down the aisle.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654885/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Lunch Rice Bucket - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518654885_6ec59f4bba_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lunch Rice Bucket - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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As we moved to the south, hills dominated the landscape in places, and we saw fields of corn.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654210/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518654210_5c209083a7_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654160/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518654160_a9c8089fe4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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The Nhat Le River goes into the South China Sea at a 30 degree angle. The city of Dong Hoi is on the land side of the river. There was an old citadel that was started in the 1630s. During the Vietnam War, Dong Hoi as a major staging area for the North Vietnam Army, was severely leveled. Today, Dong Hoi has been rebuilt with scenic river promenade and wide boulevards, and a distinct departure from Hanoi, super chill. Wind was stiff and we were not energetic enough to make it to the beach on the other side of the river.
<br><br><b>Arriving in Dong Hoi after dark we beelined to Genkan Vegan Chay Restaurant for a very tasty dinner. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518305961/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Genkan Vegan Chay Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518305961_3080a67da7_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Genkan Vegan Chay Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The view from our hote room: Canal (lower left), Nhat Le River (right), and South China Sea (center back) </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518471648/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="View from our Hotel Window: Canal (lower left), River (right), and South China Sea (center back) - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518471648_f851422d13_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from our Hotel Window: Canal (lower left), River (right), and South China Sea (center back) - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Walking along the river promenade we should NOT have not been surprised to see so-called Chinese Fishing Nets (traditional shore-operated lift nets), along with fishing boats. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518620569/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518620569_170bd29a7d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518306226/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518306226_190bbd52d3_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518620559/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Fishing Boats - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518620559_1c54af899a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Fishing Boats - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53517417242/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53517417242_ac2c0ceff5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Chinese Fishing Nets - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Farther along the promenade are the ruins of Tam Toa Church, a reminder of the leveling of the city by the USAF. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518306216/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Tam Toa Church - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518306216_accfeaa37e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Tam Toa Church - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We ate an extremely tasty lunch at Na Hang Chay Vegan Restaurant. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518471453/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Na Hang Chay Vegan Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518471453_e6b83b3bd4_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Na Hang Chay Vegan Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518620714/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Na Hang Chay Vegan Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518620714_18a2a4a311_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Na Hang Chay Vegan Restaurant - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> One of the citadel gates also survived the bombing. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53517417167/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Gate - Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53517417167_9717d6e0e6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Gate - Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Moat - Dong Hoi Citadel </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518471218/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Moat - Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518471218_cf552d7aa5_z.jpg" width="640" height="320" alt="Moat - Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Reconstructed Citadel Gate </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518305806/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518305806_3d5fe405bf_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dong Hoi Citadel - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In Dong Hoi we saw many VinFast EVs. More later on VinFast. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518471208/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="VINFAST EV - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518471208_c3643416cb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="VINFAST EV - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518733920/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Vinfast EV - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518733920_8da7294c7a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vinfast EV - Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Two shots of our arrival at Dong Hoi Station. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53517337802/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Station) On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53517337802_4be14b1778_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Station) On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518391958/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Station) - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518391958_00197d72b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Ga Dong Hoi (Dong Hoi Station) - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> And some short videos shot from the train. The first is <i>Rolling out of Hanoi</i> which gives you a feel for the city traffic flow. The second is <i>We Pass Another Train</i>. The third is <i>Rolling Out of Vinh Station</i> featuring a train whistle or two, and a quick view of the dapper Station Master.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654955/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Video - Pulling out of Hanoi - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53518654955_cbd699ca2d_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Video - Pulling out of Hanoi - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518654650/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="Short Video - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53518654650_d9b2b2c712_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Short Video - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518655055/in/album-72177720314678948/" title="One Minute Video - Rolling Out of Vinh Station - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53518655055_29dabce22c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="One Minute Video - Rolling Out of Vinh Station - On the Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> </b><br>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-48538865085329954142024-02-09T04:41:00.001-05:002024-02-09T04:53:20.641-05:00Vietnam: Cat Ba IslandCat Ba Island is the largest island in HaLong Bay. It used to be a fishing village, now it has a tourist village of hotels and restaurants right next to it. During COVID, Cat Ba became a major destination for domestic tourists in the summer. Going there in January meant cold weather sans crowds. The setting is scenic. Our room had a view of the sea. There was a vegan restaurant, we ate there 3 times, a rare occurance at a beach town. We were content.
<br><br><b> There are several ways to get to Cat Ba Island. By one of the world's longest cable car rides (1st below). We arrived by bus and a claustrophobic, death trap, speedboat (2nd and 3rd). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53515250652/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="On the Bus to the Cat Ba Island Speed Boat Dock"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53515250652_f227580169_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus to the Cat Ba Island Speed Boat Dock"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53516134511/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="On the Speed Boat from Cat Ba Island to Cat Hai Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53516134511_4215c0e422_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="On the Speed Boat from Cat Ba Island to Cat Hai Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53516134496/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="On the Speed Boat from Cat Ba Island to Cat Hai Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53516134496_2658f27753_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Speed Boat from Cat Ba Island to Cat Hai Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> View from our Hotel Room. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512469266/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="View from our Hotel Room - Cát Bà Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512469266_78231b359f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="View from our Hotel Room - Cát Bà Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>The hotel breakfast was tasty, and the passion fruit a tangy addition. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512919150/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Hotel Breakfast with Passion Fruit - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512919150_59b0333e91_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Hotel Breakfast with Passion Fruit - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We wore our wool caps and puffer jackets on our evening walk. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512803154/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512803154_f1ffec7cd2_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The evening walk was scenic; a continuous view of the coastal waters, karsts, and fishing boats. The sandy beaches, crowded in summer, were deserted. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512654583/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512654583_6a505aa379_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518289708/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518289708_5c1f6db14b_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53518125546/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53518125546_76b0a9880e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512803004/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512803004_d52ca5c40b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512803009/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512803009_fe3848bc12_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Evening Stroll - Cat Ba Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>A few of our fav dishes at Celery Vegan Restaurant. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53513653591/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Celery - Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53513653591_18fe59f240_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Celery - Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53513653511/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Celery - Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53513653511_dc6e82d542_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Celery - Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512638208/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Lunch at Celery Vegan Restaurant -- Cát Bà Island, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512638208_0d951fb4fb_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Lunch at Celery Vegan Restaurant -- Cát Bà Island, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Another day we walked to the old fishing village. These days it's a busy ferry dock for tourist day tripping. And there is fish farming in the very scenic bay. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53512769317/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53512769317_341bf0d039_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53513830458/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53513830458_649d49c94c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53513974954/in/album-72177720314604175/" title="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53513974954_e5814759d1_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Cat Ba Island - Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-68380640043684739582024-02-06T03:58:00.001-05:002024-02-06T04:05:31.000-05:00Vietnam: HaiphongHaiphong is the third largest city in Vietnam. It has none of Hanoi's frenzy. The center is very chill, with minimal shoppin. Most popular is just sitting with family and friends at old fashioned cafes. Since Haiphong is already a major port, and lacks tourist sites, very few tourists visit Haiphong. But John wanted to come here because Haiphong was a city often mentioned in the news during the Vietnam War.
<br><br><b> We rode a daytime sleeper bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong. Relaxing. I bought a cold-coffee-in-a-can at the first rest stop (first below). We passed Hanoi to the north, and caught a glimpse of the skyline (4th below). Turns out we were also carrying livestock (5th below) underneaeth the bus.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508224913/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Coffee! - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508224913_d8294a6b6d_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Coffee! - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508064206/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508064206_cdcce6f9fa_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508225503/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Our Bus - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508225503_6c775d8f94_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Our Bus - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508062986/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508062986_dbbf570bb6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508063576/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Loading a Black Pig - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508063576_a3837e686e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Loading a Black Pig - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Haiphong traffic is calm. The view from our GRAB taxi below. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508063021/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="In a GRAB Taxi - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508063021_cf4346e218_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="In a GRAB Taxi - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Dinner. We were not very hungry, which turned out to be us both coming down with the flu or maybe COVID. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508394694/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Dinner - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508394694_f1f5d07533_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dinner - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Performers in the park. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508079181/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508079181_836f83707d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Walking around in the city center. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508080661/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508080661_b1078c3744_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53510332104/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53510332104_210067a882_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Along the waterfront. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508503505/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508503505_4f47e4ff1f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Being a bit under the weather - OK, sick - we limited our exploration to the Haiphong city center, where the early 20th-century French Colonial Architecture is amazing. On our Sunday afternoon stroll, the locals were using those buildings as backdrops for photoshoots. First below and second below are the Post Office. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508392324/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong Post Office - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508392324_2e549a58f0_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Haiphong Post Office - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508239888/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong Post Office - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508239888_f8f31ce396_c.jpg" width="800" height="533" alt="Haiphong Post Office - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Haiphong Museum </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509122682/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Bảo tàng Hải Phòng (Haiphong Museum) - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509122682_89c0d3cc05_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Bảo tàng Hải Phòng (Haiphong Museum) - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Opera House </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509121987/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Opera House - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509121987_be658a4a5e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Opera House - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509121127/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Opera House - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509121127_8cb0dee469_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Opera House - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Other French Colonial buildings include the train station, water works, and a small pavilion in the park. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509121092/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Ga Haiphong (Haiphong Train Station) - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509121092_a20e499a22_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Ga Haiphong (Haiphong Train Station) - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509122507/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Water Tower - Water Works - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509122507_b1629df13f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Water Tower - Water Works - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53509120972/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="french Colonial Building - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53509120972_91b2be331f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="french Colonial Building - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>We spotted a mosque that did not appear to be operational. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53510012326/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Mosque - Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53510012326_2e6039a1ba_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Mosque - Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Bonus street photo. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53510444415/in/album-72177720314555746/" title="Haiphong, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53510444415_47ec4fbf02_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Haiphong, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-72841488596693713602024-02-04T04:17:00.002-05:002024-02-04T08:24:53.462-05:00Vietnam: Ha Giang and Dong VanHa Giang province, east to Lao Cai (home to Sapa and Bac Ha), is the next province that borders China, home to the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. Vietnam's most preeminent tourist destination, Ha Long Bay is a collection of karst formations over water. Dong Van is karst formations in the hills. The way the area is marketed to tourists is the so-called "Ha Giang Loop". You either drive a motorbike yourself or ride in the back with a hired driver, in a group, going in a circuit of Ha Giang - Dong Van - Meo Vac - Ha Giang on switchback mountain roads, taking a few days' time.
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Our option is a low carbon approach. We took the minibus from Ha Giang city to Dong Van. Basing ourselves in Dong Van, we took a minibus towards Meo Vac and got off at Ma Pi Leng Pass to walk the famous Sky Path. Instead of continuing to Meo Vac, we returned to Ha Giang from Dong Van as the ride was particularly scenic and the road goes over bigger mountains. We were rather pleased with our Dong Van visit. Even though the weather wasn't particularly good, we did have a dry day to walk the Sky Path, which was the old road until the modern car road was built. The path is very well maintained, either stone or paved, i.e. not muddy. Another afternoon we had a short walk out of Dong Van to a view point.
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From the walks and the bus rides, we could tell that Ha Giang has a lot of roads, which is often not the case for such mountainous areas. Each village has a nice road, sometimes just enough for motorbikes. There are enough shared transport that ply the mountain roads too. The cellphone has been transformative. Hotels and guesthouses can make reservations for us (sometimes with commision) and we'd be collected at their lobby door. Often goods are transported alongside passengers. In the last few weeks, we have shared transport with thousands of dollars worth of cymbidiums, a new motorbike, ducks and chickens on the roof, pigs in the hold. In a different universe, UPS and Amazon drivers would drive minibuses and we too could have public transport in the suburbs. ;-)
<br><br><b> Hiking the Sky Path was the highlight of our visit to Ha Giang Province. The trail starts with a view down into the bottom of the pass where one can take a boat ride in a man-made lake. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505694076/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505694076_f39fc45632_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505845133/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505845133_cd44e467c6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53504808187/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53504808187_6171a72bc0_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>An hour later we have gained altitude but have a different view down into the pass. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53504815987/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53504815987_1890d34536_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505701881/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505701881_953db33fc2_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53504814702/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53504814702_9fbf5a351a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking the SkyPath between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Walking below the so-called White Cliffs of Ha Giang was more than thrilling. A commenter on Flickr, described the 2nd photo below: "What a severe and overbearing landscape! Not for the faint of spirit!" [If the video (4th below) will not play for you, click on <a href="https://flic.kr/p/2pw7N4e" target="_blank">this link</a>.] </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53504829832/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53504829832_d9e44f9902_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53504829492/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53504829492_b50b97fde9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505866688/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505866688_668fc41a37_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505718691/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53505718691_c6afc015d3_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Ha Giang White Cliffs - Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The walk after the White Cliffs is beautiful but not so spectacular. One spot (2nd below) is an Instagram favorite. Maybe you can spot a guy on a rock ledge doing pushups with his shirt off. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505851861/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505851861_d6b795c489_c.jpg" width="800" height="255" alt="Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53506273780/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506273780_67c8ddea14_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking the SkyPath in Ma Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Back on the main road we started walking the 8km back to Dong Van, but soon got picked up by a local bus. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505865021/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505865021_8ed70e6802_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53506287775/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506287775_bbcbf4713a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Dong Van village sits in a scenic spot. Here's the view from our hotel. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53506016333/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506016333_00961e2f88_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Dong Van, Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The long bus rides in Ha Giang Province were not boring. Often we were passing through groups of motos doing "The Loop". Not to mention livestock on the bus roof, and supurb views of the mountains! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508050580/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508050580_a3ce19b99d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53497802756/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53497802756_37003ed5ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53507625941/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53507625941_84a2f91dcf_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508465760/in/dateposted-public/" title="Viewpoint - On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508465760_0cb82fcf2c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Viewpoint - On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53498104214/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53498104214_b2f26aab8e_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53505902979/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Riding the Bus from Dong Van towards Meo Vac, Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53505902979_a5eee5067b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Riding the Bus from Dong Van towards Meo Vac, Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53506735787/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53506735787_356e0b148b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508049015/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508049015_22f0265acc_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53507785833/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53507785833_97b53831a7_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508050345/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508050345_ef27ac647d_c.jpg" width="800" height="601" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53508041876/in/dateposted-public/" title="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53508041876_96e8f94af3_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="On the Bus from Dong Van to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53496918992/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Sun-Ling Escapes Trouble - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53496918992_431d5a1b0a_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Sun-Ling Escapes Trouble - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53498220010/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="Wait for it - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53498220010_348a873627_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Wait for it - On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53498103874/in/album-72177720314450921/" title="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53498103874_c7966f3eda_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="On the Bus from Ha Giang to Dong Van, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In the southern part of Ha Giang, the bus passed by many places where veneers for plywood production were drying alongside the road. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53497897225/in/album-72177720314442277/" title="Drying the Veneers for Plywood Production - On the Bus from Bac Ha to Ha Giang, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53497897225_a9335c877c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Drying the Veneers for Plywood Production - On the Bus from Bac Ha to Ha Giang, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-77656174224380450642024-02-01T09:30:00.001-05:002024-02-02T09:30:39.784-05:00Northern Vietnam: Bac Ha MarketsOn Saturday we got to Can Cau soon after 7am as the market just got going. During our two-hour stay, there were only about a few dozen visitors, Vietnamese included, in total. The local people were very much at ease, which puts me at ease somewhat. Ethnic markets are complicated minefields most of the time.
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The majority of the local women were in native costume which makes for a colorful sight. Furthermore, there were a great number of vendors selling new costumes. They were doing brisk business too. John reminded me that since the Lunar New Year is coming up, people must be lining up new outfits for the new year. Judging by the wares on offer, the days of handmade, natural fiber, and individually made outfits are gone; mass produced synthetic costumes rule. Yet when I saw the joyous smile of each person, young or old, trying on new clothes as their loved ones looked on approvingly, who am I to lament factory made clothes?! I am grateful that the mass produced clothes have made decent, affordable, clothes accessible to everyone, in whatever corner of the world. In fact, it is amazing to see that the village women must be more enthusiastic about their native costumes than their grandmothers' time because the costumes are more affordable and accessible.<br><br>
Most of the hill tribes are Hmong, of <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Spirit_Catches_You_and_You_Fall_Down">The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down</a></i>
fame, or related groups, even though the costumes from two different hills can look quite distinct. Different tribes living in different political countries can have different names. However they are all connected by the Hmong-Mien language with varying degrees of intelligibility. This is an independent, ancient language, and is neither Sino-Tibetan (e.g. Chinese) nor Austroasiatic (e.g. Vietnamese), with fewer than 10 million speakers, dispersed across multiple countries. Is there a people better at <a href="https://g.co/bard/share/960bca891954">schismogenesis</a>???!!! No wonder their womenfolk unambiguously reject the more practical modern universal dressing and overwhelmingly prefer their native costumes which have been evol
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Can Cau was a fabulous market visit. Ba Ha was much bigger and had many outside visitors, e.g. people coming from Hanoi for the weekend to shop. Although this makes the market less color intense, these shoppers are very good for the local economy. Villagers are doing well enough. Given their climate, any agricultural product can really flourish here. A little extra cash means more options.
<br><br><b> The Can Cau Market is literally right on the main road. Although unlike markets we've experienced in China, the vehicle traffic did NOT come to a standstill. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489706092/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489706092_f81da17225_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492464854/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492464854_98715674d2_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492578645/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492578645_207f9314ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Hand-stitched Ribbons For Sale</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490904859/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490904859_05143b9f4c_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489706172/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489706172_db3f7e6448_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53491018085/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53491018085_e26be0802c_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Ribbons For Sale - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> New clothes for the young man. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492578565/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="New Clothes - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492578565_099fd804a6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="New Clothes - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Skirts and tops. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490905079/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490905079_b8898300f8_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492465054/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492465054_e3c96541a2_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492159481/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492159481_33a3ecc1e6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Regular clothes and shoes are also for sale. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490600471/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490600471_f46a1e62d7_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Tobacco seller </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490600431/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Tobacco - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490600431_154d7a1f6b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Tobacco - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Men and their songbirds are off to one side. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490754133/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Birdmen - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490754133_a36cf36893_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Birdmen - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Colorful rice is a popular snack/meal. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492314228/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Colorful Rice - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492314228_95030d9281_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Colorful Rice - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492464989/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492464989_b353ec5c59_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Local color. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53491265542/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53491265542_266b712629_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492578730/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492578730_a58887e601_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492314093/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492314093_4e549eeb04_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53491265472/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53491265472_3e264aa371_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A new festival head dress. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53491265487/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53491265487_498b53dd1d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Mother and child. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492465089/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492465089_47c5061870_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Ducks! </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492464814/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Ducks - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53492464814_0867855e02_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Ducks - Can Cau Market - Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Sunday Market in Bac Ha: Finalizing the new outfit with Mom's help. A series of 3 photos. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495270856/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495270856_2fb1a9e4f7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495571424/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495571424_de29f4d3b9_z.jpg" width="512" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53494381057/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53494381057_4b2e4536dc_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Sunday Market in Bac Ha: Out-of-town joy riders. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53492917890/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53492917890_cbbfaa9405_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> More Sunday Market: Outdoor Barbershop. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495417528/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Barber - Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495417528_ed67156152_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Barber - Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Vegetables and Roots for sale. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495417818/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495417818_d1fe04cd44_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Song and Dance for tips. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495687015/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495687015_3dd5b44baf_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Local costumes for sale. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53494381102/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53494381102_93e6515775_z.jpg" width="512" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Main drag on Market Day. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495417813/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495417813_465d838f4f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Beautiful head scarf. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495417313/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495417313_c473e3e954_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Local Ladies </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495270816/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495270816_c382b40b07_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53495571324/in/album-72177720314369440/" title="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53495571324_267b1e30bb_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Sunday Market in Bac Ha, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-39648069495336270512024-01-27T06:46:00.000-05:002024-01-27T06:46:11.831-05:00Vietnam: Finally SapaSapa first got on our radar when we were in Hanoi in 2002. Since then we had traveled much in the area in <a href="https://meckleyearth.blogspot.com/2008/03/yuanyang-rice-terraces.html">China</a>, right north of Sapa. I was happy to finally be in Sapa, though I am fully aware Sapa is nothing like the town it was in 2002. This place must have one of the highest concentrations of hotel beds in the world. Actually the same might be true for the whole country, making Vietnam one of the most accessible countries in terms of cost. Geographically Vietnam is already well positioned for the millions of eager tourists from East, Southeast, and South Asians, benefitting from weather differentials.
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Vietnam's highest peak Fansipan (3147m) now has a funicular/cable car system to wisk people from Sapa (~1500m). I read there used to be 2000 people a year that reached the top, now 2000 people can summit in one hour. Thankfully the system was down for a month of maintenance, saving us much calculation and analysis. Given the foggy rainy weather, the return on the overnight trek would not be worthwhile.
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We did have two reasonably good days for some walking in the countryside to see rice terraces which is really what attracted me to Sapa. I am a junky for rice terraces. Might my remote ancestors have worked them? One day we walked to the southeast, the second day to the north. We mostly used the trails that are already marked on OpenStreetMap, as we do everywhere else we go, while most other tourists were "trekking" with local guides.
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Over the last week, I realized that we hadn't returned to Vietnam earlier because the last time it seemed that in 90% of the transactions we were being cheated, or at least made uneasy. This time the ratio has reversed - less than 10% are questionable. A lot of the time we are still paying more, but they are all written down, e.g. a menu translated in English, maximum bus fare posted. Most of the time people are genuine, kind, and helpful. I am treated as a fellow human being, not solely as an economic opportunity.
<br><br><b> Let's get right to the food. We ate well in Sapa. The Saparis Hotel provided an awesome included breakfast buffet (1st below), and we ate at least 4 times at Thong Dong (2nd and 3rd below), a vegan restaurant just 10 meters from the hotel. We also ate several times at random restaurants that served meat but had vegan or vegetarian items on the menu; tofu with tomatoes (4th below) being a Vietnamese specialty and our fav. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489892188/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Breakfast at Saparis Hotel: Coffee, Fried Eggs, Tofu, Noodles, Greens, and Tomatoes - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489892188_a6c823afa9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Breakfast at Saparis Hotel: Coffee, Fried Eggs, Tofu, Noodles, Greens, and Tomatoes - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484142334/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Thong Dong Vegan Kitchen - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53484142334_e9eba5ff03_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Thong Dong Vegan Kitchen - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53482939452/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Thong Dong Vegan Kitchen - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53482939452_62f9431aac_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Thong Dong Vegan Kitchen - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484141874/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Vegan Dinner - Tofu with Tomato (left) is a National Specialty - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53484141874_2486209279_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Vegan Dinner - Tofu with Tomato (left) is a National Specialty - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The view from our hotel room balcony on a clear day (1st below) and when the clouds roll in (2nd). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484182924/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53484182924_93d23d7b82_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53488842412/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53488842412_82fdfd6a33_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Sa Pa may be the world's capital for cymbidium orchids. W e first saw them on the bus ride up to Sa Pa (1st below), and there are ambulatory vendors around town (2nd). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484208895/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Cymbidiums!!! - On the Bus from Hanoi to Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53484208895_2c833bcf8f_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cymbidiums!!! - On the Bus from Hanoi to Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484141859/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Mobile Cymbidium Vendors - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53484141859_f90d558534_c.jpg" width="533" height="800" alt="Mobile Cymbidium Vendors - Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We started our rice terrace walk to the southeast on the main road (1st below) and soon had a great view (2nd), no guide needed. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53485935441/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53485935441_a6c0d6bd5e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53486077023/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53486077023_e8c095ddaf_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Then we headed down a muddy track into the terraces and came across a slew of guided trekkers with their guides and <i>followers</i>; that is, local women hoping to sell small souvenirs they carry in baskets. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53485935386/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53485935386_5d2ac8f41e_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489710891/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489710891_dcf931e921_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490123860/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490123860_272c4aa229_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53485028602/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53485028602_a9cb4b0c0a_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> We continue by ourselves for an hour (1st below), then run into the guided trekkers again at a viewpoint with a restaurant/cafe (2nd below and more, in which we eat fried bananas). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489859328/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489859328_374c11c0a5_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489709556/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489709556_e7faa49182_c.jpg" width="800" height="365" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490124295/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490124295_46be62a843_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489709501/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489709501_3d5b6c268f_c.jpg" width="533" height="800" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489709981/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489709981_177ea1231e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Walking South from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Sa Pa Catholic Church, focal point of city center, was built in 1895. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490010804/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490010804_3f7026de3e_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The 2nd sunny day (1st below) we walked north from town through rice terraces. The local farmers had just started to flood their fields in preparation for planting rice. While walking up one flight of terraces, it was as if the fields were filling up right in front of our eyes. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53488844402/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53488844402_ce16c27677_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489742986/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53489742986_fecc422955_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490157100/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490157100_79742b88a5_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490043984/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490043984_3b215a5ce1_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490156815/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490156815_14effd7f56_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53488843752/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53488843752_c64f2eef49_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489742056/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489742056_ac04670064_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490156420/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490156420_a00be24860_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489741691/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489741691_ef66bc7eee_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>Turning around we headed back to Sapa via a sleepy village that grew artichokes, and a tiny hamlet where not much was happening. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490042314/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490042314_2b86a72fde_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53489741656/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53489741656_9945f0cfc6_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53490763885/in/dateposted-public/" title="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53490763885_eb2144ce18_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Walking North from Sa Pa, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Bonus "Fog Rolling In" video </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53484183289/in/album-72177720314281647/" title="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53484183289_05faa7987e_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Sa Pa, Lao Cai, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-41103501545245873522024-01-23T09:42:00.000-05:002024-01-23T09:42:52.715-05:00Hanoi, 2nd Time Around21 years had elapsed since our previous visit to Hanoi, Vietnam. Hanoi has changed for sure, but not as much as I had expected, especially having just come from China.
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While there are more cars than before, scooters and motorbikes still dominate the streets. There are now high rise buildings, but the old quarter of Hanoi, home for most budget tourists, remains largely unchanged, except many of the souvenirs which used to be exquisitely handcrafted are now replaced by mass-produced trinkets from China. The traffic in the city center is chaotic yet Hanoi holds a certain charm, could it be nostalgia?
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We went to some of the obligatory sites. 21 years ago touring was not a thing for most Vietnamese. Today there are many Vietnamese going around. Young people seem to like photo sessions with traditional costumes, as in Korea, Japan, and China.
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Best of all, it was super easy to eat vegetarian. We even went to an all-you-can-eat vegan buffet for $3.67 each!
<br><br><b> From Shanghai, we flew to Shenzhen, then Hanoi. Even though we arrived at the Hanoi airport after dark, it was easy to find Express Bus 86 at Column 2 and ride it to the Old Quarter where we had rented a cozy apartment near Hoan Kiem (Sword) Lake for 4 nights. From the apartment's cozy window street we relax, and observe the street below.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53471420216/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport - Shenzhen, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53471420216_d421283de5_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport - Shenzhen, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480291985/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Ourselfies - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480291985_c6f6893e10_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Ourselfies - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53474736832/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="View from Our Hotel Room- Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53474736832_dd9e15e855_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="View from Our Hotel Room- Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Old Quarter has narrow streets and was very busy, especially around 5pm, school pickup time. 1st and 2nd below are in front of the Cathedral. 3rd (a video) and 4th below are near the Dong Xuan Market.</b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53477026446/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="School Pickup Rush Hour in Front of the Cathedral - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53477026446_f6d36cb52d_z.jpg" width="360" height="640" alt="School Pickup Rush Hour in Front of the Cathedral - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async
src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53477341764/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="School Pickup Rush Hour in Front of the Cathedral - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53477341764_a69ec0ee9d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="School Pickup Rush Hour in Front of the Cathedral - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480292835/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Short Video -- near the Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53480292835_a1c0567013_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Short Video -- near the Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480028458/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480028458_598b9921ce_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480194314/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Mobile Fruit Vendor with Shoulder Pole - Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480194314_8fcb8b8611_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Mobile Fruit Vendor with Shoulder Pole - Chợ Đồng Xuân (Dong Xuan Market) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> In the evenings, people are out playing "foot badminton" in parks, badminton on the sidewalks, line dancing by the lake, or jsut strolling. Not to mention early weekend morning ruunners when the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake are pedestrian only. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53477439270/in/photolist-2ptBRz1" title="Da Cau (Foot Badminton) - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53477439270_4e6775ec1a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Da Cau (Foot Badminton) - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53478979342/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Badminton on the Sidewalk - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53478979342_4ca15fc27e_z.jpg" width="640" height="512" alt="Badminton on the Sidewalk - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53482469713/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Hoan Kiem Lake - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53482469713_9d3fe30f49_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Hoan Kiem Lake - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53482469788/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53482469788_1cdba66fd1_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480911692/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480911692_6222535659_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> After visiting more than several Confucian Temples in China, we found the Confucian Temple Of Literature in Hanoi familiar yet different. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480040475/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480040475_f5cf07c944_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53479942099/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53479942099_3361ed00b5_z.jpg" width="360" height="640" alt="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53479941894/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53479941894_05f71c4ecd_c.jpg" width="800" height="332" alt="Temple Of Literature (a Confucian Temple) - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The Imperial Citadel is a mini version of Beijing's Forbidden City. Fascinating. A large portion of the site is an ongoing archaeological dig. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480681872/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480681872_194fdf3966_c.jpg" width="800" height="289" alt="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480682087/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480682087_8fd944ef9a_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53481726973/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53481726973_8e70f1659f_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53481727158/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53481727158_b307efe5b9_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53481889274/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53481889274_a3879f3a19_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53480912197/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Citadel Archaeological Site - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53480912197_c44474cd41_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Citadel Archaeological Site - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Looking across Ba Đình Square to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53479942034/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Ba Đình Square - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53479942034_dc1cf71971_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Ba Đình Square - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> The French left more that a few Art Deco buildings. Our favs were the CLINIQUE Hospital (1st below) and the Cua Bac Parish Church (2nd). </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53476630622/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="CLINIQUE (Former French Hospital) - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53476630622_84477b3a0e_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="CLINIQUE (Former French Hospital) - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53481814621/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Cua Bac Parish Church - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53481814621_dbcb3a00eb_z.jpg" width="640" height="582" alt="Cua Bac Parish Church - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b>A section of the Veggie Castle all-you-can-eat Buffet. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53481814616/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Veggie Castle Vegan Restaurant - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53481814616_88ac236080_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Veggie Castle Vegan Restaurant - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Lunch at Banh Mi Vegan </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53475644961/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Lunch at Banh Mi Vegan - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53475644961_400c92742a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Lunch at Banh Mi Vegan - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53475954969/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Lunch at Banh Mi Vegan - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53475954969_5264fe6edb_z.jpg" width="640" height="640" alt="Lunch at Banh Mi Vegan - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Our first vegan meal in Hanoi was pho soup at a small stall across from a Buddhist Temple. Tasty. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53477943650/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53477943650_60432b923c_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53476630697/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53476630697_fd3372d80c_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53477676878/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53477676878_542164cb74_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Vegan Soup - Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> A few final shots of the Cathedral at night. </b><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53482738885/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="Cathedral at Night - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53482738885_f33bb7b56d_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Cathedral at Night - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53482738970/in/album-72177720314167618/" title="cathedral at Night - Hanoi, Vietnam"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53482738970_10e3fd22e5_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="cathedral at Night - Hanoi, Vietnam"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-59780526210759741642024-01-17T06:53:00.000-05:002024-01-17T06:53:42.232-05:00China: Around WuxiWuxi, situated just 26 miles from Suzhou, is another ancient city boasting a written history dating back 3000 years. It is also the cradle of the Wu language, spoken by 80 million people, encompassing dialects from Suzhou and Shanghai (which incidentally happens to be my mother tongue). Our base was in the Nanchang Jie area, characterized by ancient canals and well-preserved buildings.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467586546/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467586546_1480d4b849_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53468007555/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53468007555_a13d9f3851_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467723003/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Tofu - Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467723003_dde19093e4_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Tofu - Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467722913/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467722913_42b8418452_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467722858/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Sticky Rice BBQ - Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467722858_1ed58db5bc_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Sticky Rice BBQ - Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53464482771/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53464482771_a56bb4a719_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53463568302/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53463568302_178e9308d4_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53463568177/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Full Moon over Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53463568177_9408182050_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Full Moon over Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53464482706/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Full Moon Over Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53464482706_9442869397_c.jpg" width="466" height="800" alt="Full Moon Over Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53464618948/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53464618948_10de9d9221_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467586501/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467586501_9c12ce370e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467722958/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467722958_6fe53afd45_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467906034/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467906034_907620c7ed_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Nanchang Jie (Nanchang Street) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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We also visited Xihui Park and Huishan Ancient Town, the latter showcasing its prosperity through a multitude of well-maintained houses. Yuntouzhu, or Turtle Head Isle, a scenic peninsula on Taihu Lake, proved to be a rather kitschy, yet popular destination.
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It's worth noting that throughout our visit, we never ventured into the walled part of the city center. Surprisingly, this was my very first visit to Wuxi, leaving me with a desire to return and get to know Wuxi better.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467906423/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Xihui Park - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467906423_e0fbc4da53_c.jpg" width="533" height="800" alt="Xihui Park - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53468091114/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53468091114_d23cda7d5c_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53468091079/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53468091079_c363b57972_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53468191760/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53468191760_047e3165b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="266" alt="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467769091/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467769091_d8cd35b879_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53467769121/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53467769121_d49b4921d4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Huishan Ancient Town - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465359851/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465359851_6d9f079caa_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465677259/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465677259_82e878078b_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465677224/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465677224_400d6d7884_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465680054/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53465680054_8c5961b2da_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465784430/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465784430_d643a46313_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465358006/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465358006_979f086e26_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53465674369/in/album-72177720314081284/" title="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53465674369_eef8e4beb1_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Yuntouzhu (Turtle Head Isle) - Wuxi, Jiangsu, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20810230.post-88130478284702307012024-01-14T05:51:00.001-05:002024-01-14T06:03:34.567-05:00Around ShanghaiBetween visiting family, relatives, and friends, we explored various parts of Shanghai, discovering new places and revisiting old favorites.
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<li>Zhang Yuan (Zhang Garden): an urban renewal project featuring traditional Shanghai residential buildings.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53445777470/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Zhang Yuan (Zhang Garden) - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53445777470_30b249e4cf_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Zhang Yuan (Zhang Garden) - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53445366026/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Zhang Yuan (Zhang Garden) - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53445366026_043c524356_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Zhang Yuan (Zhang Garden) - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Waitanyuan (Source of the Bund): another urban renewal project showcasing the oldest commercial buildings at the north end of the Bund. On the day we visited, a bustling Christmas market, which had sold out, created quite a crowd. Unfortunately, we couldn't explore as much as I had hoped.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53444438647/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="China Baptist Publication Building - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53444438647_194abbc75f_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="China Baptist Publication Building - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53445777490/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53445777490_6f92250aef_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Dishui Lake: located at the very tip of Shanghai on the East China Sea, this new urban development is centered around a man-made circular lake that spans 2.5 km in diameter. It is home to the new Shanghai Planetarium and features a branch of the popular Duoyun Bookstore. The day we visited was bitterly cold and windy.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441345636/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441345636_994f13db77_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53440418657/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53440418657_73bafae2e9_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441755260/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441755260_dde8d6df92_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441482338/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441482338_d4c6223438_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441662199/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441662199_084a083622_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53440418557/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53440418557_6fd2266f46_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441662394/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Planetarium - Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441662394_28fea2c5a5_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="Planetarium - Astronomy Museum - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53441755385/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Duoyun Bookstore - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53441755385_a9263febf1_c.jpg" width="800" height="291" alt="Duoyun Bookstore - Excursion to Nanhuixincheng Town, Pudong, Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Panlong Tiandi: a recently transformed shopping and commercial complex, reimagined from an old water village. Here, we stumbled upon our first Aldi in Asia.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53450907264/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Panlong Tiandi - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53450907264_d74518011b_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Panlong Tiandi - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53450591411/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Aldi - Panlong Tiandi - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53450591411_02fa69dbdf_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Aldi - Panlong Tiandi - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<li>Having missed M50 in 2019, we were delighted to discover that the place has expanded while maintaining its edgy vibe. No wonder it was our go-to place when we lived in Shanghai. First below, a photo by Oliver Jiang. Second below, a painting by Ning Tao.
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456917229/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="by Oliver Jiang - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456917229_b0d0033f05_z.jpg" width="640" height="417" alt="by Oliver Jiang - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53455685802/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="By Ning Tao - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53455685802_3abc6a4878_z.jpg" width="360" height="640" alt="By Ning Tao - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456605721/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456605721_281afa933b_c.jpg" width="450" height="800" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53457016875/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53457016875_270f6e8813_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456604966/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Firehouse - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456604966_0ee2943e72_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Firehouse - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456728773/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456728773_5efa3fa348_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456727503/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Tea Cup Mural - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456727503_4b6dcc3177_z.jpg" width="481" height="640" alt="Tea Cup Mural - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53455679342/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53455679342_bd37e30302_z.jpg" width="640" height="481" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456917009/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53456917009_3148d991bf_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456729573/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53456729573_31c764e5ea_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53456918924/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/53456918924_d5e631742a_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<br><br><b> Shanghai-Style Savory Fried Nian Gao for Lunch at M50. </b><br><br>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meckleychina/53455679102/in/album-72177720313477866/" title="Shanghai -Style Savory Fried Nian Gao - Lunch - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53455679102_e34c7c7270_z.jpg" width="640" height="360" alt="Shanghai -Style Savory Fried Nian Gao - Lunch - M50 Art District - Shanghai, China"/></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</ul><div class="blogger-post-footer">John and Sun-Ling travel the earth.</div>Sun-Linghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14698854617881648602noreply@blogger.com2