Spectacular view points

Those heading south, who also want to escape the mass-tourism soullessness of Vung Tau, could press on to Long Hai, a less-commercialised seaside retreat within a couple of hours' drive of HCMC. The fishing village of Long Hai, 30km northeast of Vung Tau, has a pretty white-sand beach and the area benefits from a microclimate that brings less rain than other parts of the south. Its natural beauty and microclimate are the main reasons why Bao Ðai, the last emperor of Vietnam, built a holiday residence here (now the An¬oasis Beach Resort). Long Hai is a peaceful place to visit during the week, but it loses its local character on the weekends when Vietnamese tourists (and the occasional busload of Chinese visitors) pack the sands on weekends. Though there are a couple of low-key resorts in the Long Hai vicinity, western travellers have yet to arrive, so if you're looking for a lively spot with dining and nightlife action, Mui Ne is probably a better choice. The main appeal of Long Hai is the main sweeping beach, which is more attractive to Vietnamese travelers than nearby Vung Tau. It is backed by a long promenade and also comes with plenty of accommodation options, including cheap beach bungalows and luxury resorts with private sands.Other attractions in Long Hai include Chua Phap Hoa Pagoda, the tunnels at Dia Dao, and the caves at nearby Minh Dam. Long Hai comes alive during Vietnamese New Year (Tet) festival, with hundreds of fishing boats mooring up. The fishermen get on a pilgrimage to worship at Mo Co Temple.