A Journey Through Time: The Ancient Capital

As a retired teacher with a penchant for road trips, I often find myself drawn to places steeped in history and culture. The Ninh Binh Highlights tour from Hanoi was no exception. My husband and I embarked on this journey with a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of our youthful road trips across America. The tour began with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Walking through the remnants of this once-great city, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the small towns of the Midwest, each with its own story to tell.

The Dinh King temple, nestled in the mountainous area, was a sight to behold. As we wandered through the temple grounds, I was reminded of the many historical landmarks we’ve visited on our travels. The sense of history was palpable, and I found myself lost in thought, imagining the lives of those who once walked these paths. Our guide, Dat, was a wealth of knowledge, sharing stories and insights that brought the ancient capital to life.

Climbing to New Heights: Mua Caves

The next leg of our journey took us to the Mua Caves, where we faced the daunting task of climbing 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain. As someone who has spent countless hours on the open road, the physical challenge was a welcome change. The climb was steep and the sun relentless, but the breathtaking views from the top made every step worthwhile. The panoramic vista of the river and mountains was a reminder of the vast landscapes we’ve encountered on our travels.

Along the way, we were greeted by the sight of goats grazing on the mountainside, a charming reminder of the rural landscapes back home. The stone staircase, though challenging, offered spots to catch our breath and take in the surroundings. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to appreciate the beauty of the world around us and the journey that had brought us here.

A Serene River Journey: Tam Coc

After a well-deserved lunch, we embarked on a sampan boat trip along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. The gentle rhythm of the paddle and the serene beauty of the limestone mountains and rice fields transported me back to the peaceful drives through America’s heartland. The caves we passed through offered brief respite from the sun, their cool interiors a welcome contrast to the heat outside.

As we glided along the river, I couldn’t help but think of the many rivers and lakes we’ve explored on our travels. Each one holds its own unique charm, much like the small towns we’ve visited along the way. The journey concluded with a visit to the Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient temple nestled in the mountains. Though we opted to rest and take in the views from the restaurant area, the experience was no less enriching.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that this tour was more than just a series of activities. It was a journey through time and space, a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the present. The Ninh Binh Highlights tour was a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits us on the open road, and I left with a renewed sense of adventure and a heart full of memories.