10 BENEFITS OF GROUP TRAVEL
Ever since the first trip I’ve ever taken, I’ve appreciated the benefits of group travel. From adventures in South East Asia, to city hopping in Europe, I love group travel. Yes it has its downsides, and sometimes you just want to travel solo.
However if you get like-minded people together, looking for the same thing, it can be amazing. Some of my lifelong friends have come from these trips. Here are what I consider the best reasons for everyone to try it, at least once, in their lifetime. Here’s my 10 benefits of group travel, in partnership with https://danangtravelagency.hatenablog.com/…
#1 Planning
I’ve started big here, this is one of my favourite reason for group travel! First things first, I’m a planner, I enjoy the planning stage of travel, it’s exciting and the freedom is unbeatable. However, sometimes, if you trust someone, or you’re struggling for inspiration, it’s amazing to have all this stuff planned for you. Let someone else find the best spots, tell you what time to get up, give you the options of what to do and you pick the one you’re most interested in. I love that side to group travel.
#2 Share your Experience
Solo travel’s biggest shortcoming is you make amazing memories, but only you were there to witness it. Not to mention the endless selfies we take, because no one can take our photo! So, what about being able to reminisce with lifelong friends from all over the world? Arrange meet ups years later? Look back through old photos or videos, or laugh at that time you did a shot of snake blood in Vietnam (for example!). Sharing experiences is far better.
#3 Meet like-minded People
For me this is as important as any on this list. How hard is it in every day life to do this? Especially for busy working professionals, or if you’re are single. Da Nang Local Tours is specifically aimed at bring like-minded people together in their 30’s and 40’s. It’s aimed at busy, working professionals to experience more from their valuable holiday allowance. I’ve always connected instantly with people from group trips. You share travel stories, have similar interests, and most importantly you’ve made the same decision to see the planet. Brilliant.
#4 It’s for everyone
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple or a group of friends, it doesn’t matter. I’ve travelled in groups with all of the above, even different age groups. When you get a group of people together with similar interests, they just gel. So don’t be put off. Especially if you’re a solo traveller. When I first backpacked I joined a group tour and ended up travelling with people from the group months after the tour had finished.
#5 Find the best spots
An experienced tour company should always be taking you to the best places, and it should be a mixture of touristy “must see” destinations and local hidden gems. These are often places you simply cannot find on your own, or you need an insider tip to find it. Make sure you check the itinerary to ensure the trip you’re spending your hard-earned money on is going to places that suit you. Exodus Edits offers curated itineraries, designed to help you maximise your time and find the best spots.
#6 Your Tour Guide
Your group tour guide can make or break your trip, and in my experience they’ve always made it. They should be passionate and knowledgeable of the places they are showing you, and ideally from the area, if not experts in it. Often they will be strict on things like timekeeping and behaving. They’ll push you, test you and keep you in check, but all in a good way!
#7 It’s Cost Effective
Although in some ways you pay for the tour and guide, a good tour company should also make this a cost effective way of travelling. In a group you’ll be eligible for group discounts, you’ll share rooms and even try camping. Often the guide will give you choices for the evening meal, ranging from budget local options to something more expensive. But you have the choice. A guide will generally know the cheapest spots or local hangouts to eat and drink.
#8 Lifelong Friends
I’ve found the friends I’ve made in group travel have become some of my best travel friends, and from all over the world. When you put like-minded people together, this just happens. I still keep in touch with people I trekked with 10 years ago, from all over the world. The best part, if I ever visit these people I have a place to stay and exciting stories to catch up on. I ended up house-sitting for 6 weeks in Melbourne for a couple I met on a group trip. Having friends all around the world is priceless.
#9 Push your Comfort Zone
If you’re in a group, it will push you to try new things. Whether it’s hiking on the Upper Yosemite Falls, or kayaking in Halong Bay. These experiences shape us as a person and even if it’s tough, we all pushed each other through. And tough experiences strengthen a group bond. Without a group like this we may not have all done it. Being part of an adventurous group will really push you out of your comfort zone, and you’ll be glad it did.
#10 Safety
I’ll be the first to say travelling alone is never as bad as people make out. Of course it depends on the country, but generally speaking. Wherever in the world you go, you need to know the area and stay safe. There are two advantages of a group travel, firstly you’re most likely travelling out in large numbers rather than alone, especially at night. And secondly your guide will have been to the area numerous times, and be able to give you the low down on places to avoid, what valuables to leave behind and how much money you need. This information is priceless.
Book a Tour
Don’t want to wait for the competition? Well why not book at trip anyway? You can follow this link to see all of the amazing adventures Da Nang Travel Agency - Da Nang Local Tours have to offer. I really believe Da Nang Local Tours have covered all the important aspects on their trips, and they know what really matters.
Read more: Da Nang Tours Blog
How to Travel from Hoi An to Hue
Da Nang Travel Agency - Hoi an and Hue are two tourist destinations located along the coast of Central Vietnam. Located roughly 3 hours from one another (130kms), each location sees tens of thousands of tourist visitors each year due to their individual and unique charm.
Additionally, when traveling from Hoi An to Hue, travelers have the opportunity to see famous destinations such as the Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach and Elephant Springs - making it one of the most popular short voyages in Vietnam due to it having so much to offer in such a short distance.
When traveling from Hoi An to Hue, travelers have various modes of transport to choose from. Each has it's own pros and drawbacks, so in this post we will discuss the best ways to travel from Hoi An to Hue so that you can choose the best option for you!
TRAVELING FROM HOI AN TO HUE BY BUS
Traveling by bus is the most basic option when traveling from Hoi An to Hue. The buses run at 2 times at 8am and 1pm every day. The bus is an option who those aren't too concerned with comfort and traveling with other locals (likely no English speaking staff on the bus also) and they don't pickup at hotel so it isn't for everyone.
TRAVELING FROM HOI AN TO HUE BY TRAIN
Traveling by train is another option for those wanting to travel from Hoi An to Hue -although those wanting to take this option will be required to travel into Danang first, as there is no train station in Hoi An.
The trains run more frequently than the bus and also hold more seats. The train is the preferred option for travelers wanting to experience the beautiful scenery Central Vietnam has to offer, as it takes a route separate to the road in which the bus takes, Highway 1.
The train ride from Hue to Hoi An is fantastic for some photo opportunities, as well as having the chance to witness some of the true rural living that you may not witness via the bus.
Please note: You can travel from Hoi An to Da Nang via bus, taxi or private car. The trip generally takes around 45 minutes. For those with luggage, we recommend a taxi or private car as they offer more space and also privacy. Taxis and private cars are roughly the same prices.
TRAVELING FROM HOI AN TO HUE BY MOTORBIKE
Traveling by motorbike is a popular option for that backpacking throughout Vietnam, or even those just daring enough to scale the road between Hoi An to Hue! This trip will take longer than the other options, as motorbikes cannot pass through the tunnel and will have to go via the Hai Van Pass.
This is no problem though, as the Hai Van Pass is one of the most popular roads in Vietnam - named by Jeremy Clarkson of Top Gear as "a deserted ribbon of perfection. One of the greatest coastal roads in the world". Traveling by motorbike to Hue can be done either by renting or buying a motorbike in Vietnam or with an organized group tour.
TRAVELING BY PRIVATE CAR
Traveling by private car has fast become the most popular option when go to Hue from Hoi An or return in recent years, for several reasons. Most companies offer 4 seat, 7 seat and 16 seat vehicles to cater for all group sizes.
Traveling from Hoi An to Hue by private car also allows you to customize your own journey, so you are able to stop at any destinations you like whilst skipping those you don't wish to see - with an English speaking driver! Another popular reason is that it is considered the safest option (on par with train) due the drivers being experienced and taking their time to navigate the Hai Van Pass.
It may not be ideal for the solo-backpacker due to the higher price than the bus or train, but a great option for families who are wanting to make a memorable experience on their holiday!
Things To Do In Da Nang
Da Nang Travel Agency – The City of Bridges is such a charming destination of Central Vietnam. Due to its close location to three cultural world heritages – Hue Imperial City, My Son Sanctuary and Hoi Can Ancient Town, Da Nang city makes a great base to discover all the wonders of the central part of Vietnam. Once you are in the city of Da Nang, you can’t help to be attracted by the gentle, white sandy coastline, the colorful, impressive bridges and spectacular mountaintops and more. Here is your ultimate list of the top things to do in Da Nang.
Things to do in Da Nang
1. See colorful lit bridges of Da Nang
The thing Da Nang is most famous about is its collection of bridges. The bridges in Da Nang are so creative and iconic to the point that every time the city build a new bridge, it becomes trendy. After the Dragon Bridge and Love Bridge, the newest sensation that has gone worldwide recently is Golden Bridge, boasting a mind-blowing architecture.
Love Bridge
Welcome to the romantic side of Da Nang – a bridge that is dedicated to all the couples. Built in 2015 on Tran Hung Dao Street which is just perfect location to watch Dragon Bridge, sunset and fireworks.
The bridge is 70m long, inspired by many love bridges across the world where lovers share their moments together. Right at the bridge is the statue of Carp Turns into A Dragon representing virtues like patience, dedication and determination in Asian culture.
- The Iconic Dragon Bridge
This bridge was opened for traffic in 2013, became the 7th bridge in Da Nang over Han River. The bridge became a trend right away for its dragon-like appearance and its special feature of breathing water and fire through its mouth on every Sunday at 9:00PM.
Come to the riverside at night to see the bridge light up across Han River. This bridge is absolutely the number-one thing to do in Da Nang.
Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills
This should be the highlight of 2018 – the whole world was amazed by this newly built bridge which has already drawn so much attention and praises. Located in Ba Na Hills, Golden Bridge boasts with an impressive architecture – two giant stone hands emerging from the mountain and holding the delicate gilded bridge.
With the magnificent backdrop view from the height of 1400m, this construction is even more outstanding. Adorned by lavenders and chrysanthemums, Golden Bridge is a dreamlike walkway for posing.
2. Visit the beautiful Linh Ung Pagoda
Featured a giant standing statue of Guan Yin looking over the sea, Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra peninsula is a perfect site for cultural exploring and sightseeing at the same time, especially at night, from the pagoda you can see Da Nang lit up with the colorful city lights.
To the locals, this pagoda is such a blessing because since built, it seemed that the hurricane season was less severe than before.
3. Trek up Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains)
Located only 7km from the centre of Da Nang city, Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains) include 5 mountains according to Wu Xing (Five Elements in Chinese culture) that are Kim, Moc, Thuy, Hoa, Tho mountains.
Ngu Hanh Son is a total package with breathtaking views on the top, beautiful caves – Huyen Khong, Van Khong, Van Nguyet, sacred pagoda – Tham Thai, natural stream Giai Oan and Non Nuoc village at the base of the mountain. Ngu Hanh Son is also known for stone carving handicraft.
*Tip: you can join Guan Tin festival held at Ngu Hanh Son during 18th – 20th days of the second lunar month. Activities: procession of Guan Yin statue, floating flower lights on the river and other philanthropic activities.
4. Get closer to the nature at Cu Lao Cham Island
Untouched by tourism, Cu Lao Cham is a wonderful getaway from the city life. You’ll be charmed with the turquoise, clean water color surrounding the island. The wildlife on Cu Lao Cham is fantastic for adventure with primitive landscapes.
Don’t forget visiting the fishing village to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere here and the delicious seafood. Come to Cu Lao Cham, you can have the whole beach for yourself where you can enjoy swimming, sailing and scuba diving.
5. Relax at My Khe Beach
If Cu Lao Cham is too far for you, My Khe is another excellent choice for your beach break. With length of 900 meters, My Khe boasts a white sandy beach and blue sea water running along the city’s road AND cleanliness which is a huge score for a beach in Vietnam.
Come to My Khe to enjoy swimming, surfing and other beachside activities. A wide range of restaurants and hotels along the coastline offers plenty options and services for your trip.
6. Loosen up at Ba Na Hills
Other than seeing the Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills is also the place to have fun and enjoy romantic French architecture. Located 40km southwest of the city centre, Ba Na Hills take you about 30 minutes traveling. The complex, only accessible by cable cars, features a range of gardens, French village, Wax Museum, Le Jardin D’Amour.
Ba Na Hills tickets: Adults: 700,000VND | Children (1m-1.3m): 550,000VND
*Ticket Inclusions:
Entrance Fees
10% VAT
Fees of games in Fantasy Park: 105 games, mountain sliding and more
Not included the fee for Wax Museum (100,000VND)
7. Dip yourself in the healing water at Than Tai Spring Park
Than Tai Hot Spring is a wonderful place to take your kids and family to enjoy the landscape and of course, bathing time in such fairy tale like setting. The water would definitely relieve you from muscle ache and stress. There’s also a Japanese onsen site in the complex which is pretty similar to one in Japan.
Take your kids to the complex’s water park, they’ll absolutely love it.
Entrance tickets: 300,000VND/adult and 150,000VND/child 1m-1.3m
8. Shop at Han Market
If you're finding a place to shop and enjoy Da Nang cuisine, Han Market is your top choice. The market has been in operation since the French occupation in 1940s, caters all kinds of products to both locals and tourists who come to Da Nang.
Han Market has two floors, is located on at the grand intersection of Tran Phu Street, Bach Dang Street, Hung Vuong Street and Tran Hung Dao Street.
Inside the market, you can find as many types of products as you can, including clothes, dried foodstuff, extract oils, household products, etc. The market's food court is the paradise of Vietnamese dishes like mi quang (Vietnamese turmeric noodles) and com tam (broken rice) to banh xeo (sizzling pancake) and goi cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), each of which should cost you no more than VND 30,000.
9. Visit Museum of Cham Sculpture
The Museum of Cham Sculpture deserves to be one of the best things to do in Da Nang for its uniqueness and spectacular exhibition. Housing the largest exhibition of Cham sculpture in the world, the museum displays almost 300 terracotta and stone works of art ranging from the 7th to the 15th centuries, and many of them are considered the masterpieces of Cham sculpture.
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00-17:00
Location: At the intersection of Bach Dang and Trung Nu Vuong in Danang by the Han River
10. Enjoy Da Nang Nightlife
As the worthiest city to live in Vietnam, Da Nang nightlife is active, full of activities and wide range of choices. Here are some places to go and things to do in Da Nang after nightfall:
* Book Han River Cruise Ticket
Running hours: 18:00-19:00 and 20:00-21:00
Route: Han River Bridge, Dragon Bridge and Bach Dang Street
*Asia Park's Sun Wheel – 1 Phan Dang Luu Street, Hai Chau District
