Nha Trang is a popular seaside resort and it is easy to see why. The extensive white sand beaches, turquoise waters framed by towering mountains is a lovely setting. The city itself offers clean, wide boulevards, and first-class international resorts and stylish restaurants. Historically, this was the capital of the Champa Kingdom that once controlled what is now central and south Vietnam for over 13 centuries.
Our first stop was the temple and the white Buddha statue at Long Son Pagoda. A climb of 152 steps takes you to the base of the Buddha and provides a great overview of the city. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple, and an older gentleman was on hand to reprimand anyone attempting to enter with shoes. This location was also being used by a number of beautiful young women, traditionally dressed, to create Facebook profiles.
The Dam Market was next on the itinerary. This 2-story complex sells local goods from foods to clothing to household goods to jewelry. Haggling is part of the fun at the market, and initially quoted prices plummet as you walk away from the vendor.
Next, we had the opportunity to view the city from a cycle rickshaw/pedicab. In this rig, the driver cycles the riders around, unlike the old-fashioned pulled rickshaw of the past. This 40-45 minute ride was a fun (occasionally scary) but interesting way to explore the city from a different perspective immersed in the chaotic traffic.
Our day ended with a visit to the Po Nagar Cham Towers. These Buddhist temples were built between the 7th and 12th centuries. Temple etiquette, throughout this part of the world, dictates specific rules of dress. Long pants and sleeved shirts are required, hats are not allowed and shoes must be removed. At the Towers, robes were available for tourist inappropriately dressed. We also witnessed the most generous displays of contributions from the faithful coming to pray at the temples. Large tables of food and flowers were at the entrance and interior of the temples. This was a perfect ending to our visit to the city.
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