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With its lush pines, ever-green gardens, and an "Eternal Spring," Dalat is one of Vietnam's prime cities. Located in the country's central highlands, this charming city of pines is reminiscent of the European countryside. That's how the French wanted it to be: a mountain retreat with cool weather and verdant greens. Today, Dalat is known as the country's most popular honeymoon destination, because of its dreamy and rustic atmosphere. Luckily, the town is open to everyone, not just for newlyweds.
Dalat's paved boulevards showcase a hodgepodge of French-Vietnamese architecture, evident in the meek villas and towering cathedrals, contrasting with the ornate pagodas and monasteries. Looking around, one might perhaps see bohemian artists donning French-style berets, while hill tribe natives walk around in their traditional garments. A notable homage to French design is the town's Radio Mast, a small replica of Paris' iconic Eiffel Tower.
Other colonial buildings in Dalat have become museums and galleries preserving pre-colonial relics, an example being the Lam Dong Museum. South of town is the Crémaillère Railway Station, whose old locomotives bring out the kid in every tourist. Those who are after a more eccentric experience, however, can head out to the Cuong Hoan Traditional Silk Center, where they can witness the whole process of silk-making and even get a try at the cooked silkworms-which tastes nutty and is not for the faint-hearted. Tourists are spellbound by the avant-garde design of Hang Nga Crazy House, whose surreal surroundings take visitors to a world of whimsy.
The religious sights found in the town may strike one as tame and ordinary when it comes to design, but they do not disappoint when intricacy is concerned. The Dalat Cathedral, also known as "Chicken Church" because of the chicken statue found in the bell tower, boasts of being one of the largest churches in town and for having the best views. The hilltop Sino-Vietnamese-styled Du Sinh Church is another great vantage point and is ideal for picnics. For those who fancy a round of golf after lunch can go to Xuang Hong Lake, which has a golf club and is another picnic favorite.
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Dalat Traveler Advice
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