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1. Pine Forest and Childhood Memories
Childhood - Every mention of those three words makes my heart flutter. Amidst numerous beautiful memories of childhood, it is the green pine forest that I cherish the most.
During twilight, my friends and I would venture into the pine forest for fishing. Sitting on rocks by the stream, we'd bait the hooks, engaging in lively conversations that covered the sky and delved deep into the sea. When the float moved, we'd jerk the fishing rod. Red-rimmed tilapia would gleam and flop around in the lush green grass.
As the sunset, we'd return with plump tilapia. Oh, how beautiful those evenings were when we gathered firewood, sat under the pine tree, and listened to the whispering stream. The sound of the wind through the pines echoed like an exquisite melody. Once scolded by my mother, I ran into the pine forest.
Sitting under a tree, listening to the melodious stream, all anger and fatigue seemed to vanish. The sound of the pine forest and the soothing stream lulled me into a peaceful sleep. When I woke up, the sun was about to set. I hurriedly ran home on my three legs and four limbs.
On early school mornings, I would walk through the pine forest, listening to the melodious chirping of birds: 'Chirp chirp, the language of birds.' I'd pluck a flower by the stream's edge. Oh, how beautiful the fresh morning dew on the petals looked like glistening pearls. The green pine forest rustled and whispered in the wind. Hugging the pine tree, pressing my ear against it, I felt the heartbeat of the green sprouts.
At study hours, I'd sometimes wander in the pine forest. Choosing the tallest tree, I'd embrace its trunk and measure if I was as tall. I thought I had to be half the height of the pine tree, only to find out I was just a quarter of it.
Lying with my head on the pine's base, stretching out on the lush green grass, I'd read a story. The pine's melodious sound, the cool breeze, and the fairy-tale-like atmosphere made the story come alive. Some early evenings, the girls would invite each other to the pine forest to enjoy the breeze, while we boys, as soon as we spotted them at the forest's entrance, would rush out waving our hands, shouting loudly, frightening the girls away.
Sundays were off, and we'd play pretend battles in the forest. The pine trees would sway and welcome me as if celebrating my triumphs. The stream would gurgle, narrating my victories, and I would proudly survey my surroundings. During the flood season, angry pines shook their branches, making the scared water froth. When spring arrived, the pines suddenly laughed and swayed all day and night.
Spring wove a green robe for the pines. Being able to see the sun, feel the cool breeze, admire beautiful flowers, hear the stream, and the laughter of us all, the pine trees would sing and dance all day.
There you have it! My green pine forest is like that! It's like a 'kind mother' to me, always sharing with me in joy and sorrow. Through countless springs, my green pine forest has retained its 'personality' and the beauty of green. It remains the most beautiful memory in my life.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
2. The Beauty in 'The Marvelous Green Forest' by Nguyễn Phan Hách
Forests throughout Vietnam are lush and contribute a cool atmosphere to both the land and its people. Thanks to the favorable tropical climate, various types of forests thrive, providing the best habitat for numerous wild species. Each forest holds mysterious and enchanting beauty, a magical gift from Mother Nature to those who observe, love, and explore it.
Within these forests, there is an abundance of breathtaking and impressive scenes. Entering the woods, one wanders amidst the vastness of the enchanting and fresh nature. The damp earth road is covered with mushrooms, resembling a mushroom city, each mushroom like an architectural marvel. The author feels like a giant lost in the metropolis of a kingdom of tiny beings, with castles, shrines, and palaces scattered beneath. The scenery becomes incredibly mystical, akin to stepping into one of the famous fairy tales by Andersen.
The language used here stands out as the author skillfully employs similes. As it is a wild forest, the large leaves covering the ground give a sense of timeless, with sunlight streaming through the gaps, illuminating the ground during midday. Venturing deeper into the forest, unexpected sounds begin to emerge, not the silent and mysterious atmosphere one might briefly imagine. Wild animals traverse the branches, moving underground, vibrant and lively. Silver-cheeked gibbons swing agilely, and squirrels with their fluffy tails dart by, leaving the viewer in awe. Deer with golden fur graze on young grass, treading on the beautiful yellow leaf carpet. Just like that, the forest scene promises many surprisingly fascinating things.
Continuing on, one will find the renowned junction forest famous for its autumnal beauty. The author discovers it with delight and admiration. He can't believe his eyes and has to rub them to believe it because what envelops the entire scene is the color yellow. The landscape is warm with the dyed yellow color. It is peaceful and vibrant, with impressive highlights of green leaves appearing amidst the scene. The forest is likened to a 'golden kingdom.' The work 'The Marvel of the Green Forest,' even though just a passage talking about a forest with pristine and mysterious beauty, is incredibly beautiful and poetic by the author Nguyễn Phan Hách.
It takes keen observation, intimate descriptions, to make the reader easily perceive the work, loving the pristine and mysterious beauty of nature. After reading the work, it makes me broaden my imagination, love the forests even more. I hope everyone joins forces to protect the natural beauty of our forests so that our forests will remain forever green and vibrant.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)3. Journey to Cuc Phuong Forest
Last summer indeed brought me a meaningful experience with a journey to Cuc Phuong Forest. An intriguing encounter with a rare, pristine forest preserved in Vietnam.
Perhaps the first impression is a forest as green as an emerald under the deep blue sky! From the entrance to the resort's stilt house area is about twenty kilometers. After arranging ourselves, we were divided into groups and given a schedule for activities here. Each small group chose their favorite area and embarked on the journey.
This is a quite typical forest of our tropical climate, with vines entwining tightly around large tree trunks, wrapping around the host tree. Some climbing plants seem to have lived like this for so long, only knowing how to entwine to the point where it's hard to distinguish which are the host tree's branches and which belong to the living vine!
The trees here are all broad-leaved, with large canopies. They are divided into different layers because each species adapts to different amounts of sunlight. Some trees face the light, reaching up high, leaving a bit of faint sunlight filtering down for the shade-loving species below. That's how they coexist.
Under this quite pristine forest, occasionally, one can spot a few agile squirrels and cautious foxes with vigilant eyes. The nimble squirrels search for fallen fruits on the ground, cleverly lifting their front legs like two arms to bring the food to their mouths to eat deliciously.
The foxes seem to be looking for friends to share some hidden feelings! Some areas are said to have snakes, wild chickens, or birds... We roamed freely, searching and enjoying the fresh, quiet air, far from the places where people live.
At the end of the day, everyone was tired, especially our legs as we were not used to walking and climbing like that, but everyone was happy and eager to share interesting things discovered during the day. One trip is not enough for us to fully feel the ecology of Vietnam's forests, but one thing is certain that we have bonded with the forest more and felt the heartbeat of the forest.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)I have a great passion for traveling, so whenever I have the opportunity, I always try to visit as many places as possible. Among all the places I have visited, the one that left a deep impression on me is Ba Vi National Forest. As it was my first time visiting a national forest, I was very excited.
From the previous night, my mother had prepared all the necessary things for me to have a joyful trip. Early in the morning, we set off from the school gate. Being able to go on an excursion, we, the young generation, were more excited than ever. On the car, we were not tired of waking up early; instead, we were thrilled to go on an adventure.
On the car, we were briefed on the basics of Ba Vi National Forest. Currently, the total area of the forest is 10,814.6 hectares, located within the administrative boundaries of 16 communes in three districts of Hanoi and two districts of Hoa Binh Province, 60 kilometers west of Hanoi city center.” This made all of us exclaim at the vastness of Ba Vi National Forest. The air, scenery, and nature here increased our expectations for the exploration area.
After more than two hours sitting in the car, we arrived at the forest gate. As soon as we set foot here, the scenery overwhelmed me with its beauty. Ba Vi National Forest has a fresh, cool climate with many spectacular natural landscapes and numerous streams originating from Ba Vi Mountain flowing year-round.
Next, we were guided by the tour guide to explore everywhere. Here, everywhere is filled with various types of trees, from simple to rare, from small to all ancient trees. They are all meticulously cared for by the staff here. This place hides many fascinating things with the richness and uniqueness of pristine nature.
The tropical forests, interspersed with lush green and bushy forests with many precious wood species, create a diverse ecosystem. Here, there are three types of forests: moist tropical evergreen forest, mixed evergreen forest with broad-leaved and coniferous trees, and low mountainous tropical moist evergreen forest.
The plant system here is quite rich and diverse with 1209 higher plant species belonging to 99 families, 472 genera, many rare plant species such as cypress, pine, teak, and orchids. Regarding animals, there are 45 species of mammals, 115 species of birds, 61 species of reptiles, and 27 species of amphibians, including many rare species listed in the Red Book of Vietnam and the world, such as white pheasants, monkeys, leopards, bears, and flying squirrels.”
Witnessing the richness, freshness, and diversity of this place made me feel like I was returning to primitive times, when humans did not ruthlessly destroy forests and animals for their own interests. The air here is fresher and cooler than anywhere I've ever known.
Next, we were led to admire the wild orchids and other flowers here. The flower that impressed me the most was the bright yellow daisy in the midst of the cool Ba Vi mountain forest. Because it was not the blooming season, like autumn, the beauty of this flower was not as splendid, but still, the beauty of this flower here was enough to leave a deep impression in my mind. The daisy was blooming brightly, showing off its vibrant yellow color amidst the vast primeval forest full of intense vitality. The flower is the symbol of Ba Vi mountain forest, representing faithful love, expressing pride that never submits to the severity of nature.
After admiring the flowers, we continued to venture deeper into the forest. The deeper we went, the more the natural landscape unfolded before our eyes. Amidst the vast nature, we, the young generation, felt even smaller, and this made me feel like being embraced by the motherland, embraced by nature. Occasionally, we encountered rushing streams, clear and sometimes, some squirrels, and monkeys suddenly appeared, making us, the children, even happier than ever.
Although we had to go home, I tried to look back on the car to see the pristine forest once again. Despite the long journey, the cool green color of the forest still appeared for a long time afterward. When returning, my mind still lingered with the feeling of visiting Ba Vi National Forest, and I promised myself that I would definitely come back there again.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)5. Vibrant Green Palm Forest
My hometown, Phu Tho, boasts a vast and vibrant green palm forest. Over the years, this palm forest has remained a cherished companion to the locals. Across the Thao River, glimpses of the palm forest on distant hills paint a picturesque scene. The rolling hills, not like the pine-covered ones or the bamboo-lined terrains seen elsewhere, are adorned with a flourishing palm forest, its lush green fronds swaying gracefully.
I recall the afternoons when my friends and I would venture into the palm forest. Amidst the diverse array of trees—such as teak, jackfruit, and bees producing forest honey—we were there to harvest palm fruits. The palm tree trunks, not entirely smooth, were a challenge to climb, yet some of my friends managed to ascend to the top for the fruits. In my childhood fragility, I could only stand below, waiting for them to throw down the fruits so I could gather and share them. Even now, whenever I revisit my hometown, passing by the towering palm-covered hills, with their fronds reaching out as if to shelter from rain and sun alike, I feel a sense of inexplicable nostalgia.
Childhood memories are steeped in the greenery of the sprawling palm forest, with its fronds forming a protective canopy, just as my mother's lullabies and the rhythmic beats of traditional dances echo in my mind. Today, living in the city, the recollections of the Lô River, tea hills, and the palm forest remain sacred and seem destined never to fade in my heart. On return visits, I've read numerous poems and writings about the midlands and the palm forest.
I am particularly fond of Nguyễn Thái Vân's essay 'The Palm Forest of My Hometown.' It vividly describes the imagery of the palm trees, serving as a symbolic representation of my hometown Phu Tho: “Nowhere like the Thao River of my hometown, the sprawling palm forest. The palm tree trunks elongate like sharp swords slashing through the air. The stormy winds cannot topple them.”
The palm forest, even if depicted by a child standing on a stump or an old man with silvered hair, conveys a simple truth: Phu Tho—the palm forest of my homeland—is where my school is, hidden within the palm forest. My home resides in the palm forest…”. For the people of Phu Tho, wherever they go, whatever they do, thoughts always turn to the palm forest of their homeland. There, memories of childhood return like a flock of lambs. The images of the Lô River and the palm forest linger on, etched in my mind. I always remember the beloved palm forest of my hometown, where the song lyrics resonate: 'Palm fronds wide, shading my path…
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
6. Enchanting Mountain Forests in Yen Bai
Van Chan, Yen Bai, is my second hometown. It boasts picturesque and majestic mountain forests. Standing anywhere, you feel surrounded by countless mountains. From a strategic point, the lush green mountain ranges stretch endlessly, with the morning sun casting a golden glow. The front mountains appear even greener, adorned with tall ancient trees and dense bamboo groves. Winding trails traverse the mountainside, revealing the rich red hues of the soil. Occasionally, on a clear day, distant waterfalls cascade, creating a frothy spectacle. At the mountain's base, hundreds of buffalo graze, and the sound of bamboo bells around their necks resonates. The mountainside reveals tea plantations and vibrant cornfields.
Most captivating are the blooming red banana flower forests. The evening sunlight unevenly illuminates the terraced fields and interplays with the dark and light patches of the bamboo forest. Clouds, resembling drifting smoke, hover over the mountain peaks, creating an illusion of towering mountains reaching the sky. The rugged path to the village traverses hills like ribbons, crossing a crystal-clear stream where you can see the water's course. The rushing stream tirelessly turns the water wheels of traditional rice mills rhythmically.
Up ahead, a wooden bridge spans the stream, constructed with two large adjacent logs, and in one section, a single log creates a poetic and swaying sensation. The flat valley hosts the village, where spacious stilt houses, accommodating hundreds of people, are scattered across a hill. Nowadays, among these stilt houses, new settlements emerge as people from the lowlands come to cultivate the land. Amidst the traditional homes, new houses with red tiled roofs stand out. As the evening descends, the blue smoke from the thatched roofs mingles with the mountain mist, creating a cozy atmosphere. Herds of buffalo return, and the sounds of goats, dogs, and lively conversations blend into a harmonious forest melody. Occasionally, the solitary cry of a wild bird in the deep forest adds a touch of wilderness.
The aroma of sticky rice, ripe fruits, and the scent of grilled and roasted food permeate the air, reflecting the warm simplicity of natural and rustic living, gradually undergoing transformation. The attire of the H'mong people, with brown and indigo garments, the girls carrying water, and children running around, all contribute to the lively and vibrant life. I truly love the beauty of my homeland's mountain forests.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
7. Beauty of Mount Tan Vien
As a Vietnamese, everyone must have heard of Mount Tan Vien, a sacred mountain associated with the legendary story of Son Tinh - Thuy Tinh, renowned in our country's folklore. Mount Tan Vien, also known as Ba Vi Mountain, is located in the former Ha Tay province (now part of Hanoi), adjacent to Hoa Binh. It is less than twenty kilometers from Son Tay town to the mountain's base. During the summer days, under clear skies, the Ba Vi range reveals its inherent majestic and enchanting beauty that has existed for centuries. Standing on the windy banks of the Red River, casting our gaze into the distance, we see the lush green mountain range imposingly etched against the azure sky. The mountain's summit is divided into three peaks, with the highest being Ngoc Hoa in the middle, and on either side are Ong and Ba peaks.
Early in the morning, white clouds gently surround Ba Vi, partially obscured by a thin layer of mist, creating an even more mystical appearance. At noon, the highland sun shines golden, resembling amber. The air is crisp. The sun bathes the mountain slopes in vibrant yellow, glistening on the ancient trees of the vast forest. Towards the evening, the mountain's color deepens to a rich purple, standing out against the red hues of the sunset. Ba Vi Mountain looks strangely majestic at that time! Along the mountain's foothills are undulating hills, resembling rolling waves. The brownish-yellow color of patches of grass blends with the intermittent green of the fields.
Thousands of cattle from the farm graze leisurely on the hillsides. The pinkish-purple hues of lagerstroemia flowers illuminate under the sunlight. Suoi Hai Lake acts like a giant mirror reflecting the sky, clouds, mountains, and water. The wind blows, creating ripples on the water's surface, with the mountain shadows sparkling and flickering along the waves. Various birds like bulbuls, kingfishers, and egrets are busy hunting for prey. Occasionally, they soar into the air, gliding gracefully amidst the silvery mist. In recent years, Dong Mo and Ngai Son tourist areas in Ba Vi have become fascinating destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
Visitors can enjoy the myriad colors and scenes of nature: the dense and dark forests, steep and perilous rocky slopes, and the seven-color sparkling waterfalls. The Vua Pond, with its crystal-clear water, and the intriguing caves deep within the mountain are extremely appealing! Immersing oneself in the picturesque scenery of mountain forests makes all weariness disappear. In our hearts, joy and love for life are rekindled. The beauty of Ba Vi Mountain in my homeland can rival that of Mount Fuji in Japan. The silhouette of Ba Vi Mountain has been deeply engraved in the hearts of those born and raised in this land full of legends and fairy tales. Though legendary, I still believe that atop the sacred mountain, the three powerful deities—Son Tinh, brave and extraordinary, along with the beautiful Mysterious Lady, continue to live happily.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
8. Majestic Sóc Sơn Mountain
On the first day of the year, along with my family, we made a pilgrimage to Sóc Temple, seeking luck and tranquility for the new year. It was the first time I had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the mountain where the temple nestled, Sóc Sơn.
The mountain doesn't possess the grandeur of Hoang Lien Son, nor does it overwhelm you, but it carries an unusual and solemn charm. The first impression is the sense of a sacred place with its emerald green hue. The entire mountain is covered with thousands of pine trees, stretching straight up.
The leaves reach for the sky proudly, each small leaf seemingly extending its arms to catch the pure rays of sunlight streaming down from the sun. The gentle slope of the mountain, while making it challenging for pilgrims, creates a soothing sensation as you walk beneath the tall pines, calming your mind and allowing you to enjoy the subtle breeze of this place.
Indeed, it is a meeting place of heaven and earth, where the mountain appears like a colossal altar offered to the divine. According to legend, this is where Saint Giong, riding his divine horse, ascended to the sky after helping the people defeat the An invaders, bringing peace to the citizens.
Each mountain and river is a decorative feature that enhances the beauty of Vietnam, intimately connected with its people, like a mother, a father, a brother, a sister, or cherished friends. Even when each person departs, they always carry in their hearts a deeply affectionate and sacred image.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
9. The Beauty of Northwest Mountains and Forests
Returning after a long journey, Hanoi remains bustling with traffic, skyscrapers tightly packed, vibrant shops, and decorated streetlights. Suddenly, the memories of the Northwest hit me! I've traveled to many places in our homeland, but never have I had a journey filled with so much emotion.
At the beginning of the journey, everyone was excited to the point of sleeplessness. The laughter, advice, and handshakes from everyone wishing us well on our quest to discover the hidden beauties of the Northwest added to our determination. The road to the Northwest is strangely beautiful: winding, challenging yet full of enchanting expansiveness. I was still in awe, thinking there might not be any place more beautiful in this country as I drove to experience the beauty here. I remember a song about the Northwest describing it with 'towering mountains piercing the clouds,' and 'deep streams, high mountain passes.' The noticeable change upon setting foot in this land is the rhythmic pace of life, so different from the bustling city.
Contrary to the hurried and noisy city life with tall buildings and tightly packed streets, here both the people and the scenery are simple and peaceful, with no high-rise buildings, only mountains upon mountains. The mountains stand tall, layered and majestic, one after another. Not only different in scenery, but the way of life here is also distinct. People live simply, harmonizing with nature. The locals thrive on rocky cliffs yet remain vibrant, innocent, full of life, genuine, and very friendly. I can hardly forget the innocent and cheerful smiles of the children when we gave them small candies as gifts. I passed through lush green mountain ranges, the beauty of which made me forget my fear of heights.
Living among the vast mountains, I became entranced by the landscape and the people. I developed a profound love for the Northwest, for its nature, its life, and its people. Above all, I am happy to fulfill the hope and childhood dream of admiring the beauty of my homeland.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
10. The Palm Forests of My Hometown
My homeland, Thai Nguyen, is the cradle of tea trees, but the image etched deep in my mind isn't the undulating green tea hills; I prefer gazing at the majestic and lush palm forests.
Driving along mountain roads, palms are planted everywhere, but a true palm forest is rare. Deep within, hidden behind a few hills, you can find these long-standing palm forests. Palms grow very slowly; in a year, they might only grow a few centimeters, and the older they get, the slower they grow. Yet, in this forest, some palms can reach up to 30 meters. Palms love sunlight, and in the palm forest, each tree strives to grow straight and extend its branches to catch the sunlight. Under the sunlight, the entire palm forest turns a deep green, resembling a giant palm leaf hat. Walking into the palm forest, you'll feel overwhelmed as the leaves block out all the light, with one layer of leaves overlapping another. Due to this, not many plants can thrive under the palm forest, only a few bushes or grasses dominate. The palm forest is considered a treasure by the locals; palm fruit can be sold, and palm leaves are even more valuable. People use palm leaves to thatch roofs and make hats, raincoats, and brooms.
I love palm trees, the palm forests, and everything that palm trees have brought to humanity. I hope these palm forests will always be preserved and protected.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
11. The Majesty of Mount Ba Den, My Hometown
Tây Ninh, my hometown, boasts elevated terrain with numerous historical, cultural, and scenic landmarks. Mount Ba Den stands out as one of the prominent historical and cultural sites in my homeland.
Approaching the mountain, one witnesses the majestic peak standing tall and proud amidst the clouds. This beauty provides a delightful experience for visitors. Stepping into the mountain gate, the most prominent feature is a large statue crafted to represent each zodiac sign, accompanied by vibrant flower pots and fountains spraying water like rain.
The path leading to the mountain is made of cement. While walking, tourists can appreciate the myriad colors and charms of nature. A blue lake shimmers brightly with many swans swimming playfully, wild animal pens along with well-maintained rows of green ornamental plants.
After a while, the road up the mountain transforms into stone steps. Here, there are various games for adults and children alike. Tourists can ascend the mountain using cable cars, slides, or by foot. However, the most exciting option remains trekking. Along the journey, travelers will encounter dense and mysterious forests.
Thick vines firmly cling to the sturdy trees in the dark woods. Treacherous rocky slopes add an element of danger. Mischievous monkeys can be seen playfully climbing on the branches. Looking up, one will spot Ba Pagoda amidst a crowd of people lighting incense and praying. The scent of incense wafts through the dense forest, reaching a large reclining Buddha statue and then Hang Pagoda with various Buddha statues. Proceeding further, there's Wind Cave with dark, misty gusts, followed by Golden Stream with its sparkling golden water.
From morning till evening, clouds envelop the mountain top. Mount Ba Den, vaguely seen through the thin mist, appears even more mystical. Standing at the summit feels like being on a vast celestial platform. Wonderful scenes unfold amidst the silver mist in the air.
The beauty of Mount Ba Den in my hometown reveals itself as majestic, solemn, yet enchanting. This place has nurtured revolutionary traces, and the mountain's silhouette has been deeply engraved in the hearts of those born and raised on the land of Tây Ninh.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
12. My Hometown in the Northwestern Highlands
My hometown in the Northwestern Highlands is abundant with mountains and clouds. The mountain pass, named Heaven's Gate, is the highest point, seemingly a path to the sky. Amidst the rock walls, a vast expanse opens up. The wind echoes softly in the ears. White, wandering clouds drift in various directions.
Looking into the distance from the pass, we see a myriad of vibrant colors from the flower-covered hills, crafting a stunning natural painting. From the mountain slopes, waterfalls cascade down, spraying white foam. The clear stream reflects the grazing goats peacefully nibbling on grass. Wandering through the pristine mountain forests, one might feel like entering a mythical fairyland as the evening mist rises like dissipating smoke.
Along the undulating ridges are cascading terraced fields, resembling rolling waves in the distance. Harvested fields shine golden-brown like honey. In the valley, the golden color of ripened rice inundates the landscape. On the trails leading from the village to the forest, the rhythmic sound of horse hooves resonates as the Hmong and Dao people, with baskets on their backs, venture into the woods to forage for mushrooms. The faintly green Cham ethnic attire blends with the afternoon sun. The wind whispers, the stream sings, and the birds chirp, composing the familiar melody of my hometown's mountainous forests.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
In the beautiful land of Vietnam, every parcel, every region, boasts incredibly scenic destinations. It's not the beauty of wealth or material abundance; it's the simplicity, the charm of the ordinary, and the warm, harmonious nature of the people living there. Therefore, for our homeland, every Vietnamese holds a special, sacred affection whenever it is mentioned or remembered. And I am no different. Born on the soil of Vietnam, I feel a strong connection and pride, but what sets me apart is that I reside not in the plains or deltas but in the mountainous region, a place with challenging terrain yet bound by the warmth of its people.
Vietnam is a country where nearly two-thirds of the territory consists of hills and mountains, mainly low mountains. With such topography, the Vietnamese not only settle in the plains but also a significant population lives in the mountainous areas. And my family is one of those families that has lived for generations in the mountainous region. Compared to those in the delta areas, the terrain in my living area is more challenging, and the material conditions and community services are somewhat limited. However, in return, the homeland where I live is an incredibly beautiful land, with mountainous landscapes creating magnificent yet delightful, dreamlike scenes.
My homeland is in Tam Dao, belonging to Vinh Phuc province. Mentioning Tam Dao, everyone will think of a famous tourist destination, namely Tam Dao mountain. This is an incredibly beautiful mountain, with stunning natural scenery, perfect for sightseeing, tourism, and relaxation. Therefore, every year, my hometown, Tam Dao, attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists, especially in recent years, with many foreign visitors coming here to explore and relax.
I am very happy and proud of the landscape of my homeland. So, whenever there are tourists, I often guide them to the most beautiful places in Tam Dao, providing directions so that they don't get lost. Tam Dao, where I live, is a mountain peak at an altitude of about 900 meters above sea level. It not only offers beautiful scenery, but when you come to Tam Dao, you can experience four seasons in a day. If you arrive in the morning, you can admire the dense fog, creating a surreal, fairy-tale-like scenery. At this time, the temperature is chilly as it drops to around eighteen to twenty degrees Celsius.
However, around noon, the fog dissipates, and the temperature gradually warms up, and the warm sunlight appears. This is also the time when people can enjoy the most complete view of the natural scenery at Tam Dao mountain. At this moment, the trees and grass still retain the morning dew, making the already beautiful landscape even more vibrant. The late afternoon is a time when the weather becomes gentle, with a mild breeze and the weather resembling autumn, but by evening, the weather becomes as cold as winter. Therefore, people can experience the feeling of all four seasons in a day. Due to the weather changes, when traveling, people should bring warm clothes because the night fog here can cause people to catch a cold.
Talking about the unique landscapes and tourist spots at Tam Dao peak, we can mention Chua Thuong Ngan temple. This is an extremely sacred temple, concealing impressive and attractive stories and legends. Following that, Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall) is also an ideal destination. Here, a small stream flows from a height of fifty meters down to the ground, creating a resounding, echoing sound, along with the sounds of the forest, of rustling leaves, making the sound become melodious like a symphony. Additionally, when visiting Tam Dao, you can also climb to the summit of Rung Rinh, visit Tam Dao church, and more. All of these are extremely attractive places, satisfying the exploration passion of everyone, even the most demanding individuals.
Tam Dao also has many delicious specialties, such as Su Su (vegetable pear). The young and plump Su Su will become a very unique and exotic dish for tourists. Many people who come to Tam Dao also buy a lot of Su Su to give as gifts to their loved ones. Besides Su Su, Tam Dao has other special fruits, such as Táo Mèo (Cat Apple), banana forest, honey, forest banana seeds, and many other types of medicinal herbs. Here, people can also buy very cute handmade souvenirs, such as phone hangers, bracelets, necklaces, etc.
Tam Dao is a beautiful area with beautiful natural scenery, cool weather suitable for tourism, and relaxation. This will be an interesting destination for everyone to come with their families and loved ones.
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
Illustrative Image (source: internet)
