Experience Chan May and Hue , Vietnam - Superb.

After an enjoyable and relaxing dea day sailing across the South China Sea we were excited to be returning to Vietnam and Chan May and Hue.

We arrived on a near perfect morning with the weather prediction of dry morning with rising afternoon temperature.

Chan May (Hue) is a large coastal city in Central Vietnam, located in Thua Thien-Hue province. It is known for its rich history and culture as well as the stunning natural beauty.

The city is ho,e to the Imperial city a walled fortress and Palace complex built in the early 19th Century. It is also home of the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven story Buddhist temple that is one of the oldest and most iconic religious sites in Vietnam.

We berth at 9.30am and are allowed to disembark at 10.15am a little later than previously advised. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches and the nearby Lang Co Beach is popular for swimming and sun bathing, while Thuan An Beach is most popular for fishing and also for exploring the nearby caves.

We depart the ship and have a walk of some 600 metres to the exterior of the port beyond the Security fences where our guide is awaiting our arrival. She greets us enthusiastically and we are escorted to a Mini Van which is quite comfortable for ur 75 minute to the Imperial City. The City is also home to many historical sites such as The Citadel, The Flag tower, and the tomb of Tu Duc.

Hue is also known for its hot and humid weather and is known to be hotter than most other Cities due to its location in the Central Vietnam highlands and plains and experiences the hot winds from Laos.

The Dry Season lasts between March and August, when it can get to 40C during the day.

Hue is also typically always crowded with local tourists during this hot summer dry period and there are always issues with hotel accommodation..

Chan May ( Hue) is also known for its cultural environment and historical attractions. We come to visit the Imperial City. We may get to the pagoda depending upon time , but we aim to explore the Imperial city , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are many beautiful temples, palaces and tombs to explore, many museums, but with our limited time this will likely prove difficult.

There are also brilliant attractions for Nature lovers with the stunning scenery of the nearby Bach Ma National Park, which is home to a wide variety of natural wildlife and plants.

Many also take in the wide variety of markets where there are a variety of local handicrafts souvenirs and local clothing..

We spent the first 45 minutes driving with our guide explaining the rich history of this traditional Capital and the relevance and importance of the Imperial City and Palace.

Our guide also wants to discuss the possibility of hiring electric vehicles to transport us around the Imperial Palace site rather than walk for long period.

We enthusiastically agree to the use of the electric vehicles and a guide / driver.