The Best of Beach Holidays: Da Nang, Vietnam

The Stunning Beaches of Da Nang

My Khe Beach: Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, My Khe Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is lined with luxurious resorts and lively beach bars, offering a blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Non Nuoc Beach: Renowned for its pristine beauty and gentle waves, Non Nuoc Beach is a haven for beach lovers seeking tranquility. The beach is backed by the majestic Marble Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for a day of relaxation.

Bac My An Beach: Offering a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere, Bac My An Beach is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is dotted with charming beachfront cafes and seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the stunning views.

Exploring the Street Markets

Con Market: Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Con Market, where you can find a plethora of local goods, including clothing, souvenirs, and fresh produce. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local delicacies such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) and fresh seafood.

Han Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling ambiance of Han Market, known for its wide array of goods, including clothing, handicrafts, and spices. Indulge in a shopping spree and be sure to try the local street food offerings, such as banh xeo (sizzling pancake) and pho (Vietnamese noodle soup).

Culinary Delights at Food Markets

An Thuong Area: Explore the An Thuong area, a hidden gem known for its diverse culinary scene. Wander through the food stalls and indulge in local favorites such as banh canh cua (crab noodle soup) and banh xeo (sizzling pancake).

Son Tra Night Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Son Tra Night Market, where you can find a variety of street food stalls offering freshly prepared dishes. Sample local specialties such as bun cha ca (fish cake noodle soup) and banh beo (steamed rice cake).

Local foods to try in Vietnam:

1. Pho - A flavorful noodle soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken).
2. Banh Mi - A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette filled with various ingredients such as pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and herbs.
3. Bun Cha - Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce.
4. Banh Xeo - A crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, often served with a side of lettuce and dipping sauce.
5. Goi Cuon - Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and herbs, served with a peanut dipping sauce.
6. Cao Lau - A regional dish from Hoi An made with noodles, pork, herbs, and crispy croutons.
7. Com Tam - Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables.
8. Pho Cuon - Fresh rice noodles rolled with beef or shrimp, herbs, and lettuce, served with a dipping sauce.
9. Banh Canh - Thick rice noodles served in a savory broth with meat and herbs.
10. Che - A variety of sweet desserts and drinks made with ingredients like beans, fruits, and coconut milk.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and diverse foods you can try while visiting Vietnam. Each region of the country has its own specialties, so be sure to explore the local cuisine wherever you go.

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is typically made with beef or chicken. Here's a basic recipe for beef pho:

Ingredients:

• 2 onions, peeled and halved
• 1 4-inch piece of ginger, halved lengthwise
• 1 kg beef bones (such as oxtail, marrow, or knuckle bones)
• 4-5 liters water
• 1 kg beef brisket or chuck, thinly sliced
• 3-4 star anise
• 3-4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-2 tablespoons coriander seeds
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons fish sauce
• 400 grams rice noodles
• Garnishes: bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce

Instructions:

1. Char the onions and ginger: Place the halved onions and ginger on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until charred, about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even charring.

2. Prepare the broth: In a large stockpot, add the beef bones and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse the bones under running water. Clean the pot and return the bones to it. Add the charred onions and ginger, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and coriander seeds. Fill the pot with water (about 4-5 liters) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, skimming the surface occasionally to remove any foam or impurities.

3. Season the broth: Add sugar and fish sauce to the broth, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

4. Prepare the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

5. Assemble the pho: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top with thinly sliced beef. Ladle the hot broth over the beef and noodles, ensuring that the beef is cooked through.

6. Serve: Serve the pho hot, accompanied by bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, hoisin sauce, and sriracha sauce on the side. Diners can add these garnishes to their bowls according to their preferences.

Enjoy your homemade beef pho!

Here is a list of some of the best local food serving restaurants in Da Nang, Vietnam:

1. Quan Ba Mua - Known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
2. Mi Quang Ba Mua - Specializes in Mi Quang, a traditional noodle dish from the Quang Nam province.
3. Bun Cha Ca 109 - Famous for its Bun Cha Ca, a fish cake noodle soup, and other seafood dishes.
4. Bun Cha Ca Cay Bang - Another great spot for Bun Cha Ca lovers, offering a variety of seafood options.
5. Ba Duong - Renowned for its Banh Xeo, a crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
6. Quan Com Pho - Known for its delicious Com Pho, a rice dish with various toppings.
7. Banh Mi Phuong - Popular for its Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich with various fillings.
8. Apsara Restaurant - Offers a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood.
9. Cong Caphe - Known for its unique decor and Vietnamese coffee, a great place to relax and enjoy local flavors.
10. Com Nieu Nha Do - Specializes in Com Nieu, a traditional Vietnamese dish of broken rice served with various toppings.

These restaurants offer a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine and are highly recommended by locals and travelers alike.

Here is a list of recommended hotels in Da Nang, Vietnam, known for their excellent service, amenities, and location:

1. InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort - A luxurious resort set on a private beach, offering stunning views and world-class facilities.

2. Fusion Maia Danang - A wellness-focused resort offering private pool villas and inclusive spa treatments.

3. Vinpearl Luxury Da Nang - A 5-star beachfront resort with spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a large swimming pool.

4. Pullman Danang Beach Resort - A modern beachfront resort with stylish rooms, multiple dining options, and a range of recreational facilities.

5. Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa - A luxury resort set on a private beach, featuring spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and a range of dining options.

6. Premier Village Danang Resort - A beachfront resort offering private pool villas with stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities.

7. Novotel Danang Premier Han River - A modern hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and a range of dining options.

8. Four Points by Sheraton Danang - A contemporary hotel located near the beach, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and a range of dining options.

9. Grand Mercure Danang - A stylish hotel located near the beach, offering spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, and a range of dining options.

10. A La Carte Danang Beach - A boutique hotel located near the beach, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a range of dining options.

These hotels offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Da Nang.

Here is a list of airlines that operate direct flights from the UK to Da Nang, Vietnam, along with some of the main departure airports in the UK:

Airlines:

1. Vietnam Airlines
2. Qatar Airways
3. Emirates
4. Singapore Airlines
5. Cathay Pacific
6. Thai Airways
7. Korean Air
8. Asiana Airlines

Departure Airports:

1. London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
2. London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
3. Manchester Airport (MAN)
4. Birmingham Airport (BHX)
5. Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
6. Glasgow Airport (GLA)
7. Bristol Airport (BRS)
8. Newcastle Airport (NCL)

Please note that the availability of direct flights may vary depending on the season and airline schedules. It is recommended to check with the airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information on flights.

A beach holiday in Da Nang is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you're seeking relaxation on stunning beaches or exploring vibrant markets, Da Nang offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of this enchanting destination.

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