Da Nang marks the halfway
point between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and was the first place to
organize its own local communist party committee. The city is fairly
featureless, and if you are coming from the tranquil setting of Lang Co, Hoi
An, or anywhere for that matter, Da
Nang is an extreme disappointment. It is a busy,
dusty, colorless city, the fourth largest in Vietnam, and one of the largest
business centers. Unless you are in Da
Nang for business, chances are you will pass straight
through. Da Nang does have a fascinating Cham Museum
that contains an excellent collection of Cham art. However, the main reason for
staying in Da Nang
is in the surrounding region. China Beach, the Marble
Mountains, Hoi An and My
Son are all within striking distance of Da mange, though it is more pleasant to
stay in Hoi An and visit these sights.
Lang co beach: If you were not planning on staying in Lang Co, a drive through
may change your mind. The main street is lined with palm trees enticing you to
go for a swim in the crystal clear waters that lap onto fine white sandy
beaches. Lang Co is on a sand spit peninsula with a sparkling lagoon on one
side, and a long beach lining the South China Sea on the other. This is one of the most
beautiful places in Vietnam,
and is yet to be developed extensively for tourists, which is probably a good
thing.
Hai Van Pass: Travelling by road between Lang Co and Da Nang, you will have to get over the Hai
Van Pass. This pass is created by a spur from the Truong Son Mountain Range
that extends to the coast. This extremely mountainous road, with its
sensational views, is the cause of many local vehicles breaking down. So if you
are on one, allow yourself plenty of time. The view from the top of the pass is
extraordinarily beautiful and well worth a stop to take it all in.
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