Opt for renting a motorbike over the local tours and hit up the places of interest on your own. While only about half the island is accessible via road and only a quarter of that is paved it’s an excellent way to explore your surroundings BUT be up for an adventure and expect a bit of a sore toosh when you return.
We made our way down the unpaved red road (dirt road that just happens to be red), getting what I like to call a Vietnamese massage as we bopped up and down over the bumps. We finally made it to the Pearl Factory – NGOC HIEN – (the 3rd one down the road). It really wasn’t anything interesting. More of a jewelry store that I think is a bit overpriced. Personally, I think you could bypass it all together unless you have a pearl fetish.
After the pearl farm we headed off in search of Coconut Prison (otherwhise known as Nha Lao Cay Dua) . Our journey took us a bit longer than anticipated as the one map that is available only highlights the main roads. The map also has another downfall when you’re lost; it’s only written in English so asking locals for directions requires that you are willing to embark in a game of charades to understand each other. I became aware of just how silly we looked when the navy guard started to crack up as he watched us and humble Vietnamese soul try to understand each other.
The prison is something that I think you should visit if you can. It is a bit graphic so be prepared. It reminds us that torture on either side, no matter who it is and who the others are, should not be permitted or tolerated by human kind.
The prison is something that I think you should visit if you can. It is a bit graphic so be prepared. It reminds us that torture on either side, no matter who it is and who the others are, should not be permitted or tolerated by human kind.
Beach Bumming and Spa Treatments:
We spent the first few days just bumming around on the beach and relaxing by the pool – typical beach bums. And course we indulged in multiple spa treatments. All of which were same same except for the facial. For the facial it was back to basic and ALL NATURAL. The process included yogurt, honey, and some sort of oatmeal like rice mixture. I might just have to adopt the process and have my own spa at my apartment.
Okay a few things...I love the bike idea but where are your helmets? Ahem! And I expect to have a whole string of pearls upon your return and as for in-apartment facials, I'm down!
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