Tokyo, Japan
January 13
Author: John
Sunday, February 9, 2025 – Photo of the Day – At Sea
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Singapore to Phuket Island, Thailand in Southeast Asia.
Today’s Activities include:
MEET DESTINATION LECTURER EVELYN EVANS
Evelyn was born in Shanghai, raised in Hong Kong, and educated in the UK and Ireland.
The fourth generation of her family to be born in China, she enjoyed carefree trips on her father’s China coast tramp steamers from a very early age, which gave her a great love of the sea,
the region and all things Asian.
However, now living in England and having had a half-Swedish mother, Evelyn has traveled extensively throughout the Baltic Region, and her enthusiasm for this fascinating, magnificent
part of the world is something you cannot help but realize.
Her introduction to the ports we visit will give you the background to enjoy what you see and do and give you the appetite to return and explore further in the future.
Evelyn read Colonial History at Trinity College Dublin and went on to have a long career in Advertising – working in Hong Kong, Sydney, Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.
Now a freelance travel writer and lecturer, she visits this region every year and at every
opportunity.
9:45 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans –
Phuket: Situated in the Andaman Sea on Thailand’s Indian Ocean coast, well south of Bangkok, Phuket has terrific golden beaches, magnificent coves and bays, temples, spirit houses, friendly people, and delicious culinary treats. Seafood is of
course, a specialty!
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss –
Secrets of The Simpsons’ Success: stories, secrets, and scandals from The Simpsons’ 35-year run.
Watch Ted Cruz’s audition for the Simpsons.
6:15 Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Reception
Captain Mino Pontillo welcomes all guests and introduces the Senior Officers of Silver Dawn.
Dinner was in Alantide Restaurant.
MIND MAGIC
SHOWTIME WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MANDY MUDEN
Mandy Muden’s appearances on the 2018 Britain’s Got Talent, won critical acclaim, and standing ovations from both judges and public alike. She was the 13th woman to join the famous Magic Circle. Enjoy tonight’s show: Mandy’s comic take on Mind Reading – She Can Tell You What You Think Before You Have Even Thought of It. Mandy Muden’s appearances on the 2018 Britain’s Got Talent won critical acclaim and standing ovations from both judges and the public.
Saturday, February 8, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Singapore
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Singapore, Singapore, in Southeast Asia.
SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
The surprising superstitions of the Lion City
Superstitions are like culinary specialties: every part of the world has its own, and discovering those of new countries is always an experience, if not tasty, at least fun.
Singapore is no exception to the rule in Southeast Asia that gives pride of place to the supernatural and offers some surprising sparks of superstition that you can observe with a smile or take home with you, should they bring you luck… You never know.
Let’s start with a belief that will please the cheapskates: you don’t gift watches or shoes in Singapore.
Watches symbolise the end and ‘giving a clock’ in Mandarin sounds very similar to ‘attending a funeral’.
To avoid bringing death, no watches or clocks are given. For shoes, the same battle: the shoe is pronounced the same way as evil in Mandarin. So it’s in terrible taste to give shoes. Two beliefs that can save a lot of money…
Cutting your nails after dark is also forbidden. In Singapore, this practice is believed to attract angry spirits who could bring misfortune to the house and its inhabitants. Never point at the moon, either, especially if it is full. The risk? Finding yourself with the tips of your ears cut off in your sleep. Also to be avoided is whistling at night. This practice, which is harmless everywhere else, seems to please ghosts in this part of the world. Whistle at night, and you could end up with a string of not-always-benevolent ghosts hanging around your neck. Fortunately, the best way to deal with this is to wash your feet and face when you get home to ward off the wandering spirits.
Another rule of the Lion City, also found in Vietnam, is that you don’t take photos of three people. Two, yes. Four, yes, but three, no. It’s bad luck for the person in the middle to be the first to die.
Finally, let’s finish with a rather amusing and intriguing superstition involving new owners, a new flat or house, and a pineapple. For good fortune to fall upon a new house and its owners or occupants, when they first enter their new home, they must knock on the door three times and shout ‘huat ah’ (good luck) as they roll a pineapple around. Derived from Feng Shui, this practice is said to purify the premises. The story doesn’t say whether a tin of pineapples will do the trick..
Today’s Excursion – Singapore on your own
Orchard Road Self-exploration
Orchard Road is the symbol of consumerism. Singapore is the world’s largest consumer, and a good reflection of this is
Orchard Road – an avenue of 2km with a concentration of over 50 shopping centers. The best and the most exclusive brands can be found here. However, there are also shopping centers at affordable prices for all budgets. The malls are both above and below the street, and all are connected by “connections,” so there is no need to go outside to go from one place to another. For shopaholics, this is THE street. It is a stylish and cosmopolitan street where you can find anything.
China Town Self-exploration
In Chinatown, stroll along Pagoda Street and get a glimpse of the Chinese-influenced curios, accessories, apparel, and much
more. It is a good place to hunt for local souvenirs and gifts to take home. You can also view the Sri Mariamman Temple, which dates back to 1827 and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Chinatown Food Street is one of Singapore’s best places to eat tasty and authentic local food. The venue is roofed and has an integrated cooling system, making it a perfect all-day dining spot in Chinatown in any weather. You can find the array encompassing a wide range of flavors from across Singapore, China, and the rest of Asia. If it is your first time to Chinatown Food Street – or if you are picky when choosing what to eat – it might be a bit tricky to decide what to go for.
Marina Bay Center Self-exploration
Before you head back to your ship, you will have an opportunity to marvel at the architectural icons that dot the impressive skyline of this tiny city-state at Marina Bay Center. You may wish to walk along the scenic waterfront promenade decorated with artistic sculptures. If you have yet to see more skylines, head up 57 stories to the SkyPark Observation Deck, which boasts picturesque views of the panoramic vistas of Marina Bay and Singapore’s world-class cityscape.
Asian Culture Museum
The highlight was visiting the Asian Cultural Museum. The Special Exhibit was Pagoda Oddessy, featuring the China Pavillion at San Francisco’s 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition. 84 hand-carved model pagodas based on real structures offer a tantalizing glimpse of China’s rich architectural heritage.
Tonight’s dinner was in Alantide Restaurant.
LIMELITE
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Experience a magnificent evening of musical entertainment at its best! Limelite is a dynamic show featuring the best musical theater from New York’s Broadway and London’s West End and some of the most iconic movie musicals.
Join your Silversea Singers and Dancers as we bring this Broadway experience t hits from past productions, including Grease, ABBA and The Greatest Showman.
Friday, February 7, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Singapore
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Singapore.
SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
The City of Gardens’ Skyscrapers and Soaring Structures
Advanced, airy, and elevated, Singapore is a spectacular, futuristic vision of utopian city life. A healthy population of almost six million calls it home. Still, this city is designed with space to breathe, gorgeous outdoor parks, massive indoor greenhouses, and beautiful recreational spaces spread between the City of Gardens’ skyscrapers and soaring structures.
Once a quiet fishing village, it is now a glistening island city-state and an international beacon of science, education, and technology. Singapore is almost intimidatingly clean – and the hyper-efficient public transport system whips residents and visitors across the city’s neighborhoods in a heartbeat. Glorious fountains and audacious skyscrapers loom up – nodding to traditional feng shui beliefs – and putting on dazzling illuminated displays after dark. The lush green botanical gardens are a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 52 hectares and decorated with impressive colorful orchids.
Or breathe in the freshest air by wandering the canopy-strung bridges of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Head for the iconic Marina Bay – a landmark of the city crowned by three interconnected towers, which watch out over island-sprinkled waters. Jaunt between Little India and the atmospheric Chinatown in minutes, where beautiful temples – like the Chinese Thian Hock Keng Temple and Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple add rich cultural intrigue. Singapore’s cuisine is a mouthwatering fusion of its Indian, Chinese, Indonesian, and Malay influences, taking and enhancing the best of each. Enjoy dishes in towering restaurants, or toast the glowing skyline with the city’s eponymous gin-soaked cocktail – a Singapore Sling.
SIGHTS
• Gardens by the Bay
• Chinatown
• Orchard Road
• Marina Bay Sands Singapore
• Singapore Botanic Garden
• Supertree Grove
• Singapore Flyer
SHOPPING
Orchard Road is a 2.2 km long, tree-lined, one-way street in Singapore known for its shopping, dining, entertainment, and hotel. Orchard Road’s main boulevard is filled with iconic shopping malls, luxury fashion, and renowned international brands.
Today’s Excursion – Gardens by The Bay & Observation Deck at Marina Bay Sands
Singapore’s new icon, a 250-acre (101-hectare) horticultural attraction, seems to be the nation’s most beautiful, with more than 1.5 million rare plants in giant domed conservatories. Visit Gardens by the Bay and see why it captures the essence of Singapore – the premier tropical Garden City – making Singapore a leading global city of the 21st century.
Gardens by the Bay
Depart the pier for the short drive to the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore’s new, iconic, approximately 250-acre (about 101-
hectare) horticultural attraction. With more than 250,000 rare plants in giant domed conservatories, the Gardens by the Bay
truly captures the essence of Singapore, the ‘Garden City.’
Cloud Forest, Flower Dome
Upon arrival, walk through the Cloud Forest, a mysterious world veiled in mist. The approximately 115-
foot-high Crystal Mountain is covered in lush vegetation from tropical highlands and shrouds the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. Stroll by the waterfall, meandering through the old forests of conifers and ferns that comprise this unique environment.
Next, step into the Flower Dome, the 2015 Guinness World Record-holder as the world’s biggest glass nursery. The Flower
Dome replicates the cool-dry climate of Mediterranean regions and features towering baobabs, succulent plants, and 1,000-
year-old olive trees. During a guided tour of the Flower Dome, marvel at its extraordinary natural beauty, and spectacular and
innovative designs.
SkyPark Observation Deck
Your final stop is at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. Proceed to the 57th-floor, approximately 650-foot-high (about 198-metre)
SkyPark Observation Deck to marvel at the spectacular panoramic views and photo opportunities overlooking the city.
Your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.
World Crusie Event
Singapore: A Bird’s Eye View
Get a bird’s eye view of Singapore as you enjoy a 360° look at the dazzling skyline with private access to the SkyPark Observation Deck of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel right in the city’s heart. Sip on a Singapore Sling and enjoy gourmet food from the city’s street markets, 57 stories up.
Whisked via dedicated Silversea express elevator to this privileged playground high above the Lion City, you’ll stroll under an evening sky illuminated by starlight, fireworks, projected artwork, and entertaining surprises. Graze on local culinary classics infused with a modern twist—Savour expertly mixed drinks. And revel in the incomparable magic of Singapore.
Thursday, February 6, 2025 – Photo of the Day – At Sea
Where in the World Are We?
We are en route from Saigon, Vietnam, to Singapore.
Today’s activities included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Singapore:
The independent city-state gets more exciting every time you visit, with more to see and do. With its glitzy downtown, upbeat architecture, enviable public transport system, and incomparable public housing system, Singapore’s success is the world’s envy. Tree-lined avenues, orchids galore, and a proud population ensure everyone is impressed. It may once have been
a British Colony, but today, it is a wonderfully successful country of contrasts.
11:00 Intermediate Bridge
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Sir Stamford Raffles & The Founding of Singapore’:
The story of a young man whose self-belief and ambition led him to become the founder of one of the world’s most significant British colonial outposts. Somewhat unscrupulous? Perhaps. But he will always be remembered in that highly successful nation-state.
MOTOWN
Join Silversea Singers in an upbeat, fast-paced performance featuring this iconic music style alongside our Silversea Dancers with some stylish moves.
Let us transport you back to the renowned Motown era, with memorable music ranging from the Supremes to the Temptations.
Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant.
Wednesday – February 5, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Mink City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Saigon, Vietnam.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
A cultural melting pot with a rich history
Ho Chi Minh City is a cultural melting pot with a rich history dating back to the Khmer Kingdom. The city has been affected by various cultures, including Chinese, Indian, French, and American, which have left their mark on its architecture, cuisine, and way of life.
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s many historic buildings and museums is one of the most excellent ways to experience its cultural diversity. The Reunification Palace, for example, is a spectacular example of mid-century modern architecture that functioned as the South Vietnamese government’s seat of power throughout the war. Another must-see is the Museum of Vietnamese History, which depicts the country’s cultural progress from ancient times.
Food is another way to immerse yourself in the culture of Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, robust flavors, and healthy herb and spice balance. Street food vendors can be found all around town, with everything from pho and banh mi sandwiches to exotic fruits and grilled meats.
Ho Chi Minh City is also known for its thriving arts scene, which includes many galleries, theaters, and performance spaces that showcase the work of local artists and performers. For example, the Sydney Opera House is a spectacular French colonial-era structure that hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including opera, ballet, and traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances.
SIGHTS
• Dam Sen Cultural Park
• Bitexco Financial Tower
• Ben Thanh Market
• Hotel Majestic
• Le Van Tam Park
• Jade Emperor Pagoda
SHOPPING
Considered a traditional fine art of Vietnam, lacquerware is beautiful, long-lasting, and—best of all for those with luggage weight restrictions—light. Most tourist shops and markets hawk the same kind of budget lacquerware. Higher quality items come at a price and are usually found in specialty shops. Some of the newer high-rise shopping complexes in downtown Ho Chi Minh City are home to high-end international brands.
Today’s Excursion – Saigon Discovery
This excursion provided an introduction to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly named Saigon, a vibrant and exciting city.
Thien Hau Temple
This beautiful temple was built in 1825 and dedicated to the cult of Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea and Protector of Sailors.
History Museum
This outstanding museum considered the best place to get acquainted with Vietnam’s history, is housed in a building from the early 1900s. The museum displays artifacts from the Bronze Age to the early communist presence in Vietnam. Other exhibits feature Cham art, ceramics, and traditional costumes.
Leaving the museum, the bus will took us to the Notre Dame Cathedral, distinguished by its imposing twin spires. We stopped for photos at the splendid Reunification Palace and the elegant Saigon City Hall.
Lacquer Factory
The last visit was to one of Saigon’s best-known establishments for an introduction to the making of the city’s renowned lacquer
ware. We browsed through the showrooms, where a fascinating array of items tempts even the most jaded shopper.
Tonight’s dinner was an Indian-themed dinner at the Alantide Restaurant.
MUSICAL MEMORIES
PRE-DINNER SHOW WITH CRUISE DIRECTOR MOSS
Cruise Director Moss Hills and the Silver Dawn Band performed a mixture of music to stir up memories, including songs from Dire Straits, James Brown, Santana, Billy Joel, and more.
9:30 Chocolate Extravaganza
A delicious array of Chocolate Desserts prepared by our talented Pastry Chef and party night with Silversea Singer Beatrice.
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
This is our 2nd day in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
The Áo Dài, or the Vietnamese elegance
Vietnam has undergone many changes over the last century. However, one silhouette remains almost unchanged in the landscape of this endearing country: that of Vietnamese women adorned with the Áo Dài.
The Áo Dài is not just a garment but a representation of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and a symbol of elegance. Worn by women in Vietnam for centuries, the dress has evolved to reflect the country’s changing fashion trends and social norms.
It first appeared at the end of the 18th century due to the civil war that divided the country into two parts. One is in the North, controlled by the Trinh family, and the other is in the South, controlled by the Nguyen family. As the clothing worn in the North was too similar to that of the Chinese, Lord Nguyen asked his people to distinguish themselves from the North by wearing silk trousers under a long, wide, five-sided tunic. The ancestor of the Áo Dài was born.
Over fashions, decades, and political changes, its cut, rather wide at first, was adjusted to accentuate the curves of Vietnamese women while still retaining a certain modesty. The collar disappeared, and the sleeves were shortened under Diem, under the influence of Madame Nhu, the First Lady of the time, who breathed new life and modernity into the dress at the end of the 1950s, a move that was, however, rejected by part of the country as being too modern. When the country entered the communist era in 1975, the Áo Dài fell out of favor, as it was considered “decadent” by the ruling powers. It came back with a vengeance at the end of the 80s, never to leave the forefront of Vietnamese dressing rooms.
SIGHTS
• Dam Sen Cultural Park
• Bitexco Financial Tower
• Ben Thanh Market
• Hotel Majestic
• Le Van Tam Park
• Jade Emperor Pagoda
SHOPPING
Considered a traditional fine art of Vietnam, lacquerware is beautiful, long-lasting, and—best of all for those with luggage weight restrictions—light. Most tourist shops and markets hawk the same kind of budget lacquerware. Higher quality items come at a price and are usually found in specialty shops. Some of the newer high-rise shopping complexes in downtown Ho Chi Minh City are home to high-end international brands.
Today’s Excursion – Saigon Street Food Experience
During this excursion to Ho Chi Minh City, we discovered Vietnam’s natural remedies and street food.
Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon Food Street Market
We drove to the Food Street and Tan Dinh Market in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. The Tan Dinh Market is best known for its downhome Vietnamese food. Many vendors and food stalls in the market’s food section offer dishes freshly made to order.
Various local dishes can be purchased here, including Vietnamese pancakes (banh xeo), fresh spring rolls (goi cuon), hue cakes
(banh beo) and Vietnamese noodle soup (pho).
Ngon Restaurant and Lunch
Leaving the Tan Dinh Market, we re-boarded our coach and drove to the Ngon restaurant, which offers an extensive menu of foods from northern to southern Vietnam. The concept behind the restaurant is to bring together many different street vendors under one roof. In this compact venue, many classic Vietnamese dishes from throughout the country are prepared with the impressive local street fare’s flair, independence, and simplicity. A light Vietnamese lunch is served after exploring the food stalls.
6:30 PM – Pre-Dinner Show.
Dinner was in Alantide Restaurant
SMOKE ON
THE WATER
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH INTERNATIONAL VIOLIN SENSATION ANALIZA CHING
AT 9:15 PM
VENETIAN LOUNGE, DECK 5
Analiza returns with her dazzling performance and her
phenomenal violin musical talent.
Click to see her semi-final performance on Britain’s Got Talent on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eFlvIuuNUxs?si=gngde4S-9_qkbDUh
Monday, February 3, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Ho Chi Minh City, previously known as Saigon, Vietnam
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
The Pearl of the Orient
A chaotic, enchanting swirl of sensory stimulation – Ho Chi Minh City has incense-infused temples,
colonial architecture, warm people, and delicious street food. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was affectionately-
labeled the Pearl of the Orient by the French. Afternoons here drift by lazily on the gentle chaos of
the River Saigon as taxi boats and motor canoes flit up and down, and parks fill out with locals playing jianzi,
kicking shuttlecocks back and forth.
The French colonial imprint is evidenced in the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, which stands out with its grand
double bell towers and red brick hue. Just across the road, you’ll also find the celebrated Ho Chi Minh
Post office, which was erroneously credited as a Gustav Eiffel creation. In reality, the architect was another
Frenchman, Alfred Foulhoux. The French also caffeinated this city with coffee culture, and a refreshing iced
coffee from the innumerable coffee shops will perk you up instantly. Taste the street food to get under Ho
Chi Minh City’s skin, with humble restaurants serving rich flavors – from the Vietnamese take on the
baguette, a banh mi sandwich – to the local staple of pho, a delicious noodle soup. The Tortoise Pagoda is
a tranquil escape and a serene place of worship for Vietnamese who practice Buddhism and Taoism. At the same time,
the Vietnamese medical museum has a fascinating collection of remedies and potions – some dating back
to the Stone Age.
Journey to learn more about the Vietnam War at the Remnants Museum and Cu Chi tunnels. Offering a
vivid glimpse of conditions and the ingenuity and resilience of the soldiers, you’ll learn of the guerrilla war
campaign raged from within this claustrophobic, 70-mile network of war tunnels.
SIGHTS
- Ao Dai Museum
- Caravelle Hotel
- Central Post Office
- Cholon Mosque
- Fito Museum
- Giac Lam Pagoda
DINING
Dining options in Ho Chi Minh City run the gamut from fine dining in secluded air-conditioned splendor to sidewalk eateries where the food is cooked in makeshift open-air kitchens. The dynamism and energy of the city is reflected in a dining scene bursting with international options and a host of fusion choices in between.
Today’s activities include:
9:45 Enrichment Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Ho Chi Minh Part Lenin, Part Gandhi, with a little dash of Confucius
The life story of the man who dedicated himself to Independence for Vietnam.
Today’s excursion – Saigonese Coffee Culture
We discovered how coffee is intertwined with Saigon’s local population, culture, and history.
Apartment Café, Sitting-Plump Café, Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, Reunification Palace
Naval officers formerly frequented this old apartment during the post-war period after Reunification Day in 1975, and it features several little coffee shops. The cafe can somehow keep a traditional Saigonese feel, even though it sits in the center of an otherwise modern part of town. After visiting the different coffee shops inside the Apartment Café, we drove to Café Bệt, the ‘Sitting-Plump Café.’ In the central park near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace, students, workers, and even foreigners can be found with a plastic cup of this cafe’s coffee in hand. This area also offers fantastic views of the city’s most attractive highlights.
Racquet Café, Saigon Retro Concept Café & PHO Noodle Shop for snack/lunch
Next, re-board your coach and drive to Café Vot, the ‘Racquet Café ‘. During our visit, we observed how they traditionally brew their coffee for its unique and special taste and enjoy it on the sidewalk filled with tiny plastic stools. Our last stop is at the Saigon Retro Concept Café. Located in a small valley, this eclectically-furnished café exudes a laid-back vibe and a cool, retro feel. Following a cup of coffee here, drive to Pho, a local noodle shop, for a snack lunch with a noodle soup or ‘bánh mì,’ a type of sandwich that consists of a Vietnamese baguette that is split lengthwise and filled with various savory ingredients, along with a cup of coffee. Coffee here is not just a drink but a social aspect of life. Morning, noon, and/or night, coffee is for people of all ages and classes, and a part of Saigon’s history is brewed into every cup of coffee made here.
VAN ANH FUSION BAND
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW
Van Anh Fusion is a Vietnamese folk fusion band formed in Ho Chi Minh City in 1996. VAF combines Vietnam folk and modern music (rock, jazz, blues, country, etc.). VAF is divided into five entertainment groups: Instrumentals, Dance, MC-Singing, Water Puppets, and Special Performances.
Check out one of their YouTube videos at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKEN1xB4z_s
Sunday, February 2, 2025 – Photo of the Day – At Sea
Where in the World Are We?
En route from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), Vietman
9:45 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Ho Chi Minh:
Despite its French colonial heritage and the war, HCM has thrown off its communist cloak to reveal a city of great contrasts and when you absorb the Mekong Delta, you are sure to experience its beating heart
We dined with the Future Cruise Director, Lauren Blair, in The SALT Kitchen
35MM BLOCKBUSTER
From the soundtracks of some of the world’s biggest movies, we present a selection of our favorite hit songs.
Memorable movies with unforgettable music featuring our Silversea singers and dancers, with the Silver Dawn live band.
Saturday, February 1, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Da Nang, Vietnam
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Da Nang, in central Vietnam
DA NANG, VIETNAM
A sublime mixture of secret lagoons, spiritual sites, and Vietnamese energy.
Just North of Hoi An, Da Nang often gets overlooked on the traveler trail. However, as the third largest city in Vietnam (with a population of 1 million), Da Nang packs a punch that puts other Vietnamese towns in the shade.
Naturally, Da Nang is a savvy choice. The beaches are stunning – white sand that runs on for miles, lapped by sapphire seas, and punctuated by tall coconut trees. The mountains are breathtaking – vast swathes of emerald green poking out of the top of the few skyscrapers the city has, and the temples are enormous and plentiful. From Lady Buddha – an 18th-century shrine and statue that guards over the fishermen – to the Marble Mountains, Da Nang is a sublime mixture of secret lagoons, spiritual sites, and Vietnamese energy.
The Marble Mountains are undeniably the city’s main attraction, although the Golden Hands Bridge (40 kilometers from the city center) is fast overtaking the Mountains for the top spot. Both are sublime in their beauty – one a spiritual pilgrimage site sculpted by (and named after) the elements, the other, a man-made structure of two giant concrete hands that stretch towards the sky. You have a destination that offers travelers far more than tourist trinkets. If you are looking for a Vietnamese city that offers both connection and authenticity, you can find it in Da Nang.
SIGHTS
• The Marble Mountains
• Sun World Ba Na Hills
• Lady Buddha
• My Khe Beach
• Dragon Bridge
• Non Nuoc Beach
• Golden Bridge
• Son Tra Mountain
SHOPPING
Regarding shopping in Da Nang, whether you are looking for souvenirs, local delicacies, or high-end fashion items, this city is sure to satisfy your needs and leave you with many unforgettable memories. It is a must-have experience for visitors to this coastal city. From local markets selling traditional handicrafts to modern malls featuring high-end brands, the city offers diverse shopping options in a vibrant atmosphere!
For the best shopping in Da Nang experience, don’t forget to note down these tips:
• Set a budget before going shopping to avoid overspending
• Ask the locals for recommendations on reputable shops and vendors
• Take note of the opening and closing times of markets to plan your itinerary
• Research and compare the prices before making purchases
• Bargain politely but confidently to get the best prices
• Bring cash, as some smaller stores may not accept credit cards
• Consider purchasing souvenirs at the local markets for unique and affordable finds
• Be wary of counterfeit products, especially when shopping for luxury goods
• Don’t forget to try the local specialties before leaving Da Nang
Today’s Excursion – Ancient Town of Hoi An
We discovered Hoi An’s exquisite natural beauty and historical treasures during this excursion.
Da Nang, Hoi An, Old Temples & Houses, Town Centre
Hoi An is a treasure trove of Vietnamese history. An important trading port, Hoi An, initially boasts some of Vietnam’s most historic architecture, colorful old temples, and community houses. This ancient river town. It has been virtually unchanged for centuries.
Walking Tour, Hoi An Museum, Artefacts, Relics, Photographs, Phuoc Kien Temple, Local Market
During our tour of picturesque Hoi An, your first stop is at the Hoi An Museum. We explored artifacts, photographs, and other relics spanning 2,000 years of Hoi An history. We visited the Phuoc Kien Temple, which is dedicated to Thien Hau, Goddess of the Sea, and then stopped by a local market.
Japanese Covered Bridge, Ancient Home Visit, Marble Mountain
We walked across the Japanese Covered Bridge to visit an ancient home on the other side.
World Cruise Event – HOI AN FOR FOODIES
A sunset cruise along the rivers of Hoi An, revered for its well-preserved history and legendary culinary scene, kick-started our gastronomic adventure. We dined at the Cargo Club Café, celebrated for its delicious Vietnamese comfort food.
Friday, January 31, 2025 – Chan May, Vietman
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Chan May, in central Vietnam.
CHAN MAY (HUE/DA NANG) – VIETNAM
A true experience for the senses.
We experienced the rich imperial past, stoic resilience, and blissful beaches of central Vietnam as we delved deep
into this fascinating country’s past and present. The sheer beauty and vitality of the scenery amazed us
as we explored the stories this now tranquil land has to tell – all the while surrounded by rolling rice paddies,
freely grazing water buffalo, and soaring limestone scenery.
Cut in half by the evocatively named Perfume River and home to a spectacular sprawling citadel, Hue is an authentic experience for the senses. Vietnam’s timeless beauty outshines the shadows of its past, but Hue still bears the heavy scars of war – whether it’s from American bombs or harrowing events like those of Hue Jungle Crevice – where the Viet Cong pushed 3,000 civilians to their deaths.
Hue’s Old City was once the jewel of Vietnam, standing proudly as its Imperial Capital. Lotus flowers now twirl peacefully in the grand moat around its mighty walls, which encase a spectacular array of charred palaces, temples, and regal residences.
Danang’s Marble Mountains rise dramatically close by, scattered with Buddhist shrines and plunging caves. While an endless treasure trove of rich cultural experiences is waiting here, it’s hard to resist the call of Danang’s idyllic beaches, where white sand gives way to a fringe of palm trees. The undulating humps of the city’s Dragon Bridge soar across the wide River Han, and this ambitious structure comes alive at night when strobing light shows illuminate its flowing form and the bridge’s dragon head
rasps fire into the dusk.
SIGHTS
- Hoi An Town
- Golden Bridge
- Hue Hoi An Town
- Hue Citadel
- DINING
Chan May is known for its delicious cuisine. The area is home to various traditional dishes, such as banh beo, banh nam, and banh loc. The location is also known for its seafood, often served with various herbs and spices.
Today’s Excursion – Highlights of Da Nang
We discovered the beautiful and historic highlights of Da Nang during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.
Cham Museum, Outdoor Exhibits, Sandstone Sculptures, Temple Decorations
En route to the Cham Museum, we drove through the center of charming Da Nang, with its ornate temples and colonial-style buildings. Upon arrival, stroll through its outdoor exhibits of sandstone sculptures and temple decorations created between the 4th century and 14th century by the Cham people. The displays are grouped into four periods and named after the regions where the sculptures were discovered. Our guide, well-versed in Cham history, comprehensively explained these relics.
Pedicab-Ride, Small Side-Streets, Photo Opportunities, Han Market
Leaving the Cham Museum, we took a picturesque pedicab ride from the Cham Museum to Han Market. We wind through
the small side streets of Da Nang to experience the city’s heartbeat. Riding in a pedicab, or cyclo (pronounced ‘see-klo’),
offers a charming and intimate way to experience the hectic pace and heartbeat of Da Nang. We were pedaled through this
animated and bustling city and enjoyed numerous photo opportunities of the industrious vendors, streets full of motorcycles and
pedicabs, local markets, and colonial buildings. Upon arrival at the colorful Han Market, we had some free time is available for
shopping.
Marble & Kim Mountains, Goddess of Mercy Pagoda, Marble Mountain Village, Stone Statues
Next, we re-boarded our coach and headed to the Ngu Hanh Mountains (Marble Mountains), named after the five basic elements of the universe: Kim Mountain (Metal), Moc Mountain (Wood), Thuy Mountain (Water), Tho Mountain (Earth); and Hoa mountain
(Fire); Hoa Mountain consists of two peaks. We stopped at Kim Mountain to view the Quan The Am Pagoda (Goddess of Mercy
Pagoda), then proceed to Marble Mountain Village. Here, thousands of stone statues, including lovely, different-coloured
specimens have been created by the skillful hands of the area’s talented workers.
Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant.
HYSTERIA
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH INTERNATIONAL
VIOLIN SENSATION ANALIZA CHING
She is a worldwide album-selling recording artist and a modern virtuoso rock violinist. Her unique talent combined with passionate violin playing, dramatic dance moves, and her rich variety repertoire makes audiences tap their feet and sing along.
Analiza has performed for the Royal Family, foreign ambassadors, and high-profile celebrities.
