Dalat, a city I've been to.

A 4-day trip for only 4,000 baht!

A small city in Vietnam with amazing weather. Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon, and chilly at night.

Trees and flowers bloom all over the city.

The cost of living is significantly lower than in our country, allowing for carefree eating and entertainment. However, there are limited shopping options. Accommodation is affordable, with excellent service.

There are numerous trendy cafes to choose from, and transportation is convenient thanks to direct flights. We flew with VietJetAir, which took only 1.45 hours. The ticket price was comparable to domestic travel. I wish I had known about this sooner!

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I must preface this by stating that this was my first international trip. As a result, I conducted extensive research beforehand, covering topics such as accommodation, attractions, and cuisine. This made my trip enjoyable and hassle-free, avoiding the scams that are often rumored. 555

Renting a motorbike and using a map to navigate was simple. Their maps are incredibly accurate. Most establishments, with the exception of cafes, have designated parking areas, so you don't have to worry about your vehicle being stolen.

Join me on this exciting adventure!

Domaine De Marie Church

This pink-hued church is a popular landmark for photography enthusiasts. Located in the city center, the church offers free entry for visitors to capture its beauty.

Doha Cafe

The dome-shaped structure you see here is a cafe, a popular hangout spot for young Vietnamese people. In the evenings, it becomes especially crowded with people coming to relax, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere.

UP Coffee Dalat: A Breathtaking View and Delicious Latte

UP Coffee Dalat stands as the top contender among all cafes in Dalat, boasting an unparalleled view and a perfect ambiance for leisurely contemplation of the city.

Spanning three floors, each with its unique decor, the cafe offers a consistent panoramic vista. The photogenic setting is complemented by an exceptional hot latte, boasting a smooth and delightful flavor.

The Windmill

A legendary bakery and banh mi shop in a city I often drive through.
A famous shop in Dalat, I tried it and the taste is delicious. And this yellow wall,
a lot of people are queuing up to take pictures. Imagine the model standing by the wall, the photographer must be on the other side of the street,
and there are cars running around all the time. It might take some quick hands and timing to get each shot. 555
And this book is from this shop, you can pick it up as a prop and put it back where it was after you're done taking pictures.

Hydrangea Garden Da Lat

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Da Lat, the Hydrangea Garden offers a captivating escape for nature enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike. This sprawling haven, adorned with vibrant blooms, beckons visitors to immerse themselves in its enchanting beauty.

Located approximately 20 minutes outside the city center, the garden boasts a mesmerizing display of hydrangeas, meticulously arranged in cascading terraces. The vibrant hues of these captivating flowers create a breathtaking spectacle, inviting visitors to wander through the verdant pathways and capture the essence of this floral paradise.

With its serene ambiance and ample space for exploration, the Hydrangea Garden provides an ideal setting for leisurely strolls and photography sessions. The cool, refreshing air adds to the overall tranquility, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the garden's splendor.

Admission to this floral sanctuary is remarkably affordable, costing only 45 Thai Baht or 30,000 Vietnamese Dong. The garden's secluded location ensures a peaceful and uncrowded experience, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking solace and inspiration.

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or simply seeking a picturesque escape, the Hydrangea Garden Da Lat promises an unforgettable experience. Its vibrant blooms, serene atmosphere, and affordable entry fee make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the enchanting city of Da Lat.

This garden is open year-round and features flowers all year long, but the most spectacular blooms occur at the end of the year.

Hydrangea Garden Da Lat

Dalat Railway Station

The historic Dalat Railway Station charges an entrance fee of 7 baht or 5,000 VND for those who wish to take photographs. While train rides are available for a separate fee, we opted to simply capture some photos and move on to our next destination.

Hoa Son Dien Trang: A Green Oasis with Stunning Views

Hoa Son Dien Trang is a picturesque destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a vibrant escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This sprawling green space boasts a diverse array of attractions, catering to visitors of all ages and interests.

Upon entering the park, visitors are greeted by a lush tapestry of verdant foliage, creating a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere. The park's meticulously designed pathways meander through various themed gardens, each showcasing unique plant life and captivating landscapes.

One of the park's highlights is its collection of vibrant flower displays, bursting with an array of colors and fragrances. Visitors can stroll through fragrant rose gardens, admire the delicate beauty of orchids, and marvel at the vibrant hues of seasonal blooms.

Beyond its floral splendor, Hoa Son Dien Trang offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can embark on leisurely walks along scenic trails, enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the park offers challenging hiking trails that lead to panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

For those seeking a moment of relaxation, the park provides tranquil picnic areas where visitors can unwind amidst the serene surroundings. Additionally, the park features a charming restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Hoa Son Dien Trang is conveniently accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park on foot, as the distances between attractions are relatively short. However, for those who prefer a more leisurely approach, the park offers a shuttle service that transports visitors to various points of interest.

The entrance fee to Hoa Son Dien Trang is 45 Vietnamese Dong (approximately $2 USD), providing visitors with exceptional value for their money. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse attractions, and affordable admission, Hoa Son Dien Trang is an ideal destination for a memorable day trip or weekend getaway.

This is the reason I came here.

The innermost coffee shop is spacious and has a pleasant atmosphere.

F Canh Dong Hoa

A cafe amidst a flower garden where people flock to take pictures. Even though I thought it would be less crowded in the morning,

it was packed at 9 am.
If you come here, I recommend ordering coffee, which is reasonably priced. However, plain water costs 30 baht, so I skipped that. They're open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

I stumbled upon this spot by chance at the entrance of the Secret Garden. The rows of pine trees and the numerous parked cars caught my attention, so I decided to join the crowd.

Secret Garden

This place reminds me of Pang Ung in Thailand. It has a similar vibe. Many people don't know that Dalat has a place like this, but it does exist, just a bit outside the city. It's a 30-minute drive from the city center, and during the drive, we hardly saw any oncoming traffic, making us wonder if we were on the wrong road. However, upon arrival, we found it quite crowded, with many people taking pre-wedding photos. We had to wait our turn to take photos as well. The entrance fee is around 75 baht or 50,000 VND.

Thongdalat.Space: A Hidden Gem in Dalat

Thongdalat.Space, a cozy coffee shop located across from the Dalat Center building, offers a surprising spacious interior despite its unassuming facade. The hip decor and delicious coffee make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Stepping inside, one is greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The spacious layout allows for comfortable seating and a relaxed ambiance. The cafe's commitment to quality is evident in its expertly crafted coffee, which is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Thongdalat.Space has become a favorite haunt for coffee enthusiasts, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its convenient location, extended hours (8 am to 10 pm daily), and consistently high-quality coffee, it's no wonder this hidden gem has become a local favorite.

Lam Vien Square

This central square in the city is a great starting point for exploring. It's similar to Ekkamai Park in Bangkok, a spacious green area by a lake.

The Big C supermarket is located under the building where we bought our SIM cards. You'll also see crowds of people waiting to eat Vietnamese pizza, which is sold by many vendors and always attracts long lines.

We visited this square every day to enjoy pizza and roasted sweet potatoes.

This trip, we flew roundtrip with Vietjet Air. The flight was comfortable, the price was affordable, and they always have promotions. We love it! If you're interested, check out their website at www.vietjetair.com. Roundtrip to Dalat is almost as cheap as a domestic flight!

The only souvenir I got from this trip is this beloved hat. I wore it proudly on the plane ride home.
It's rare, so I cherish it. 55

Dalat Travel Guide: A Quick Summary

Weather: Dalat enjoys a cool climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for any season.

Flights: The city boasts its own airport, offering direct flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.

Currency: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. It's recommended to exchange currency in Thailand before arrival, as the Dalat airport lacks exchange facilities. To estimate the cost in Thai Baht, remove three zeros from the VND price and multiply by 1.5.

Transportation: Two options are available for reaching the city center from the airport: taxi or shuttle bus. Both cost around 60 Baht or 40,000 VND per person.

Internet: SIM cards with internet access can be purchased at Big C, located opposite the shuttle bus stop in the city. Alternatively, search for Lam Vien Square (the same location) if arriving by taxi. A 7-day SIM card with fast internet costs 180 Baht.

Taxis: Starting fares are around 10 Baht or 7,000 VND. Agree on the fare before entering the taxi, as some drivers may insist on fixed rates instead of using the meter.

Traffic: Be prepared for a symphony of honking! Cars drive on the right side of the road, and traffic lights are scarce. However, driving speeds are generally slow, and drivers use their horns to signal turns. Motorcycles often have only one side mirror, which can be surprising.

Food: Don't miss the famous Vietnamese pizza, a thin crust cooked on a stovetop with eggs, sausages, vegetables, and various sauces. Dalat Night Market offers a variety of street food options, and many vendors speak Thai.

Coffee: Vietnamese coffee is a must-try, available hot or cold. Drip-style iced coffee is particularly popular.

Accommodation: Hotels typically lack air conditioning, relying on fans instead, as the nights are naturally cool.

Electricity: Electrical outlets are the same as in Thailand.

Offline Maps: Download the Maps.me app for offline navigation in case internet access is unavailable.

Photography: Be prepared to share your photo locations with numerous couples taking pre-wedding photos.

Souvenirs: Finding Vietnamese hats as photo props can be challenging, as vendors often wear them but rarely sell them. Consider venturing outside the city center for better chances.

Drones: Drones are prohibited at the airport.

Alcohol: Beer is incredibly affordable, costing around 18 Baht or 12,000 VND per can.

Currency Exchange: Use up all your exchanged currency or keep only large bills. Superrich exchange booths do not accept small denomination VND bills.

Moving on to accommodation, if you're looking for budget-friendly homestays with a touch of quirkiness, we recommend two options: Lalaland Homestay and InThePine.DL.

Lalaland Homestay: A Cozy Retreat in the Heart of the City

Our first night's accommodation, Lalaland Homestay, was conveniently located less than 10 minutes from the Shutter Bus stop. This charming homestay offered private rooms for a reasonable price of 1,500 baht, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.

The homestay's simple yet elegant design emphasized natural materials, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The spacious common areas provided ample space for guests to relax and socialize. The friendly staff offered excellent service, including motorbike rentals and taxi bookings.

Lalaland Homestay's proximity to the city center made it easy to explore the local culinary scene and experience the vibrant nightlife.

The rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Each room is decorated differently, which is something I really like.

The central area is designed for activities, and the corner is especially romantic at night.

INThePines.DL Homestay: A Budget-Friendly Haven in Dalat

This homestay offers budget-friendly accommodation within easy reach of Dalat's city center. It doubles as a cozy cafe and provides motorbike rentals for convenient exploration. The owner's exceptional hospitality shines through in their detailed pre-trip communication, addressing travel tips, nearby attractions, and even acknowledging the guest's unfamiliarity with Dalat. Their reassuring "don't worry" and comprehensive answers fostered a sense of trust and comfort. Upon arrival, the owner's warm welcome and attempts at conversation, despite language barriers, further solidified the positive experience.

Only 900 baht per night!
The room is super cute, but there is no bathroom inside.
Shared bathroom is clean and well-equipped.

Both accommodations offer the advantage of being close to the city, making it convenient to find food.

Don't forget to bring a nice outfit for taking photos.

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