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Xuan Huong Lake (Dalat Vietnam)

Thursday, August 07, 2008

Ho Xuan Hong (Xuan Huong Lake) is one of the most famous attractions in Dalat. It is approximately 5 km2. It is said that in 1919 a dam was formed on a branch of Camly river creating a small lake. In 1923, another dam was built further down stream to create yet another lake. During a severe storm in 1932, both dams were destroyed. Between 1934-35, a larger dam was built of boulders (site of Ong Dao bridge today) below the sites of the two previous dam creating one large lake named Ho Lon or Large lake. Ho Lon was later renamed after Ho Xuan Huong, a famous vietnamese poet in the 17th-century.

The lake is very close to the hotel. It is where we spent most of our time when we were in Dalat. Visitors to Da Lat and the town's people use the lake as a place to meet and talk. Early mornings or late afternoons, is the best time to wonder the banks of the lake via the path that circumnavigates the waters edge.

We did lots of things here like biking. We rented a double-bike and wondered around the lake. On the northern side of the lake are the local flower gardens which are well worth a look if your wondering around it.

We usually had dinner at this restaurant which is located by the lake. It's expensive but it worths it. It is very romantic place to have dinner with your loveone. It's also surprising to hear Korean songs in this restaurant.

There are also street vendors selling different kinds of food and we had a schedule for a night to have a taste of different kinds of Vietnamese Food.