Peacefully Beautiful Bantayan

If you are after a beautiful beach that is peaceful and quiet for a really relaxing vacation, Bantayan Beach in Cebu is the place to go. Its long stretch of powdery white sand beach rivals Boracay. And sea here is calm, more pristine, and cleaner. It does not have the seaweeds that are common in Boracay shores.

The place does not have the variety and number of bars and restaurants that makes Boracay vibrant and alive. Bantayan instead provides a more laid back beach life, down to basics of really have a relaxing and fun time in a truly beautiful beach.

This island paradise is a 3 hour bus ride to the town of Hignaya from Cebu City. From Hignaya you take a 1 hour ferry to the port of Sta Fe in Bantayan.

Sunsets at Boracay

Boracay continues to be the Philippines top beach destination. Deservedly so because of its really fine white sand beach and clean waters (except during the summer season). For people who like the good life, there are plenty of good restaurants and an active night life.

But for me the main attraction is still the beautiful beach and an added bonus to this is the glorious sunset of Boracay. Watching the sunset by the beach is calming. Another way is to take a Paraw ( local sail boats) and watch this early evening event from a boat. The latter has increasingly become popular.

Hoi An: Blast from the Past

One of the most popular destinations in Vietnam is Hoi An, a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is a well preserved 15th to 19th century town which used to be trading port.

Hoi An is interesting because of the old houses most of which now operate as restaurants, shops, art galleries, and hotels catering primarily to tourists. Vehicles are banned from entering the town so you can enjoy a leisurely walk around. It is also known for its good food and there are restaurants that offer cooking lessons. However, I prefer the food in Hue.

From Hoi An, you can bike to Danang, a fine sand beach community for a relaxing time by the sea.

Amazing Water Puppet Show

If you are going to Hanoi, you have to find time to watch the water puppet show at the Thang Long Theater. I had very low expectations when I went but I was really glad that I did because the show was absolutely entertaining.

The one hour show had puppets in motion like dancing and fighting in waist deep waters accompanied by a narration and Vietnamese music. It is an amazing show and its always a full house so it is best to buy your ticket in advance.