Island Escapade: Exploring Ly Son from Saigon

Planning a trip to Ly Son has been on my mind for ages, dating back to before Tet, but life always seemed to get in the way. It wasn't until a month after Tet that I finally got the chance to embark on this adventure. Luckily, I learned that March is the ideal time to visit Ly Son, as the weather is much more favorable compared to pre-Tet.

Flying from Saigon to Danang and then taking a train to Quang Ngai proved to be quite an adventure in itself. Firstly, the ticket prices from Saigon to Danang this year were quite steep, so I highly recommend checking both departure and return fares before making any decisions. I made the mistake of assuming that the airfare wouldn't be too high, only to find out it cost a whopping 5 million dong per person! So, I ended up taking a train to Phu Yen for just over 1 million dong per person. This year, airlines have reduced their flight frequencies compared to previous years, so it's essential to be mindful of ticket prices and consider various modes of transportation.

I quite enjoyed the train journey, finding it rather relaxing. If there's a sleeper option available, I suggest snuggling up with a good book and letting the train take you on its rhythmic journey. The train ride from Danang to Quang Ngai lasted about 2 hours and 30 minutes, similar to the Danang to Hue route but not as scenic, with fewer coastal views. It's worth noting that when the train stops at Quang Ngai Station, there aren't any public transportation options to Sa Ky Port for Ly Son. A taxi ride costs around 300,000 dong one way or 600,000 dong round trip, so be sure to factor in this additional expense.

Arriving in Quang Ngai, I had initially planned to board the ferry to Ly Son straight away. However, the weather had other plans, with rough seas and rainy conditions preventing any sailings that day. So, I ended up spending a night near Sa Ky Port. The food options near the port were limited, primarily consisting of seafood. Along the Dung Quat coastline, there are plenty of eateries to choose from. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a local favorite frequented by students or residents, offering delicious meals at affordable prices. I was fortunate enough to find one such gem, where the stir-fried squid stole the show, though the clam porridge left much to be desired compared to the culinary delights of Danang or Nha Trang.

Finally, the moment arrived – setting foot on Ly Son Island after a 45-minute ferry ride. If you're fortunate enough to encounter calm seas, you might even catch a nap during the journey. However, if luck isn't on your side like it was for me, brace yourself for choppy waters and a few seasick passengers aboard the ferry.

Though the sky was overcast upon arrival, the following day blessed us with glorious sunshine. They say traveling is all about luck, and indeed, our experience was heavily influenced by the weather forecast. Thankfully, we were able to savor the delectable flavors of Ly Son, starting with a mouthwatering fish salad at a local eatery named "Hai San Khoi Chieu." The portion was generous enough to satisfy two hungry souls, and the egg sauce was simply divine.

As we scrolled through the photos captured on Ly Son Island, it felt like stepping into the frames of a romantic ballad. Ly Son exudes a tranquil charm reminiscent of the melodies sung by Trang, she's an indie singer, if you haven't heard about her, try this track “Trang - ngã tư không đèn”, where one could easily spend an entire day basking in the warm sunlight.

Despite its modest size, Ly Son boasts modern amenities, with numerous administrative buildings, homestays, and eateries scattered across the island. The island has been inhabited for generations, making it easy to find simple yet delicious dishes like Quang-style noodles, dried noodles, or duck noodle soup, providing a welcome break from seafood-centric meals.

In just under two days, I fell in love with the island's serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Saigon. Stay tuned for the next installment, where I'll detail the journey from Danang to Quang Ngai, hopping on the ferry to Ly Son, and a brief stopover in Phu Yen before heading back to Saigon.

Exploring Quang Ngai, I'm captivated by its tranquil ambiance, reminiscent of the allure of Quy Nhon. Here, serenity reigns supreme, creating the perfect backdrop for culinary adventures. Seafood aficionados will find themselves in paradise, with Quang Ngai's rich maritime bounty offering a feast for the senses. And when it comes to dining options, the diversity is unparalleled. Whether you're seeking a cozy bistro or a bustling eatery, every meal promises to be a delightful experience.

In Ly Son and Quang Ngai in general, each dining experience unfolds like a culinary journey, inviting you to savor the flavors of this hidden gem. Join me as we embark on a gastronomic exploration, where every dish tells a tale of simplicity and satisfaction.

As I reflect on my whirlwind trip to Ly Son Island, I can't help but marvel at the tranquility and beauty that surrounded me. In just under two days, I fell in love with the island's serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Saigon. From the exhilarating ferry ride to the delectable seafood feasts and breathtaking coastal vistas, Ly Son left an indelible mark on my soul. Stay tuned for the next installment, where I'll detail the journey from Danang to Quang Ngai, hopping on the ferry to Ly Son, and a brief stopover in Phu Yen before heading back to Saigon.