Babe national park
As usual, I was (un)prepared for my time in this magnificent natural heritage. I marked out the “must-see places” with the green flag into my google maps. In my case, this means I am ready for exploring. There are several caves in this beautiful place. The first one on my way was not far from the main road and to find it was not difficult. What a surprise, that somebody lives there. A man in his forties with a gorgeous cat was sitting by the fire and cooking lunch. I apologized for disturbing him, passed his kitchen and living room and went deep into the cave, using my head torch. I always enjoy caves, the air with its special odour, the darkness and silence. I enjoy it with full joy.
I also found on the map that there are some viewpoints, so I decided to find them. After hiking up the hill, there was an old observation tower. The stairs and floor were rotten and climbing up was, of course, a very dangerous and totally stupid idea. But once I came there, I wanted to see. So slowly, step by step I reached the top and saw the beautiful view of the lake and green forest with magic clouds spreading over the nearby mountains. Spectacular breathtaking view over the lake was the price for the dangerous climb. On the way, I found one more tower to climb up, which was close to the lake, so I accepted the challenge. If my mom knew what I was doing, she would come to take me back home. Sometimes I behave really silly.
Babe national park is a beautiful place with a huge lake, which I expected I could walk around, but it is too far. The local villages are quiet and not much visited by tourists. You can see the simple shacks equipped with a satellite dish. In the fields are villagers with buffaloes ploughing the ground. Kids ride scooters on their way back home from school and I am the only one tourist in the neighbourhood.
My homestay was an amazing place, lovely friendly family who cook great Vietnamese food. Although none of them speaks English, using google translator, a piece of paper and pencil, we communicated together and had fun.
Where there is the will, there is the way.