Helena Out and About

It is classified as a 4* Resort but I will give it only 3*. Stuff was lovely, the bed was very comfortable and clean, but breakfast had only 4 menus / possibilities and the portions were quit small,  and be prepared to get just packed sliced bread. Apart from a swimming pool, which was great and an overpriced bar, you don't have any other facilities at the hotel   the SPA was meant to open when I was there). As I said the bed is very comfortable but if you want stay in your room reading a book for example, the sofa has the design but is not practical. When booking this place take in consideration that you have to get a tuck tuck to go to the centre and return. During the day it costs you 2USD and evenings 3USD. The CD playing rain forest sound is ok at the beginning but after a while you which it wasn't there.

  We  stayed in Chau Doc city, very briefly on our way to Cambodia. After a day traveling and full of activities, we just wanted a great meal and relax. We decided to try Bassac Restaurant,  part of the beautiful Victoria Hotel, with elegant atmosphere   and view over Bassac River. I describe it as   fine dining and relaxing experience  in beautiful dining room,  very tasty and well presented food, served by lovely staff, that  looks after all the details, including repellent for insects,if you wish to have your meal in their terrace .  The portions were perfect and  cocktails irresistible. In terms of prices, obviously is more expensive then other places on the street, but for what you get, and per comparison with what you would pay in Europe, is very, very, good value.

I spent a morning in their beautiful place for a traditional Vietnamese  post card painting workshop and  I enjoyed it very much. It was an opportunity to learn new skills, help the beautiful projects that this foundation develops, have a very relaxing morning and a nice chat with our teacher who gave us general information about the country. As a person who can hardly draw a circle, I was very proud with the result of my postcard painting! All this activities are performed while enjoying their lovely tea selection. At the end have a wonder in their shop where you can find meaning souvenirs. Visit their web site for more information. Thank you! http://www.lifestartfoundation.org.au/lifestart-foundation-workshop/

M agic Hoi An (Vietnam) Magic city or city of the lanterns. I have never seen so many and so beautifully displayed. If you go to Vietnam you must include Hoi An in your trip. This amazing place is located in Vietnam´s central coast and it´s old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an old trading Port, that fact can be seen in its architecture and life style, that mixes French, Chinese, Japanese influences and others.  Is a place where you can see beautiful temples, colonial French buildings, Chinese wooden houses, all very well ornate with beautiful silk lanterns, that create a magical atmosphere. It´s worth to spend, at least 3 days enjoying the atmosphere. It was my favourite city in Vietnam. Rent a bicycle and explore the city, get some tailor made clothes, enjoy the street food, do a workshop with one of non-profit organizations, buy some lanterns, go on a boat trip and sip a drink just watching the world go by from one pf the roof tops.