I know it’s been a while since I’ve given an update about what I’ve been doing and where I’ve been here on the blog. So let me give you a very brief bullet point format of my last month (a lot has happened, so bullet points are absolutely necessary!).
First off, here are my top highlights since arriving in Vietnam.
Food & Drink
- Where to begin? Let’s start with the Banh Mi. Sandwiches filled with unknown and strange looking substances. But close your eyes, take a bite, and soon you are in sandwich heaven. I’m not exaggerating when I say the most amazing sandwiches in the world are Vietnamese.
- Coffee. Coffee. Coffee. This dark molasses textured Vietnamese specialty has me shaking on a caffeine high for more. I am going to be a serious coffee addict by the time I leave this country. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to write a more detailed post devoted entirely to the fascinating coffee culture in Vietnam (along with my latest WIP’s of course 😉 ).
Places
- Hanoi was the start of my Vietnamese adventure, and I fell in love with it at first sight. The traffic is mad crazy, the food is dirt cheap, and the people are amazing. Definitely worth a visit.
- Sapa is on so many backpackers must see list. But with good reason. It has some of the most stunning views in the country. Unfortunately the rapid development of tourism and gawdy resorts being constructed on the hillsides take away from the natural beauty. Staying in the nearby village of Ta Van is a good option if you’re not so into the crowds.
- Hoi An was one of my most favorite places in Vietnam. I’m not alone in thinking this, as almost every backpacker I’ve crossed paths with has told me the same thing. Okay, so maybe Hoi An isn’t the most “original” destination. But it has cheap custom tailored clothes, beautiful rice fields to bicycle through, amazing food, great cafes with good wifi and beaches. What more could a budding blogger ask for?
- Next up, Ninh Binh. Another destination filled with incredible views, sights and boat rides. Less touristy than Sapa.
- And finally, Cat Ba. Having only just arrived on this island, I can’t tell you much (yet) other than it’s beautiful views and great beaches. But expect more to come soon.
Shawl Pattern Giveaway from Drea Renee Knits!
I had such a fun time looking out for beautiful shawl patterns for my latest Bucket List post and now have the chance to offer you a free shawl pattern from Drea Renee Knits beautiful collection!
You have a chance to win either the Om or Briochealicious shawl patterns courtesy of the lovely Andrea of Drea Renee Knits.
To win, all you have to do is leave a comment below saying which shawl pattern you would like to win, your ideal knitting getaway destination (and why), along with your Ravelry username or email. The winner will be announced in one week from now!