4 unique winter hobbies

Hot spring bath (onsen)

Onsen culture originated in Japan. In recent years, onsen has been introduced to Vietnam and has become a new trend that is popular with many people, and is also an ideal relaxation therapy in winter.

When participating in the onsen experience, you should pay attention to follow the correct procedure to fully experience the unique cultural features of this type. For example: take a shower before soaking in the hot water pool, prepare yourself mentally to be 100% naked, understand your body to know how long it is appropriate to soak in hot water...

Onsen has the ability to bring refreshment, health and spirit regeneration, so it is suitable for family groups and those who want a real vacation. Currently, in Vietnam, many onsen areas with diverse models and quality service facilities have gradually appeared such as: Alba Wellness Resort (Hue), Kawara My An Onsen Resort (Hue); Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh (Quang Ninh) ...

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

SUP (Stand Up Paddle) is a water sport that is famous all over the world and has gradually become popular in Vietnam recently. SUP players only need a board and a specialized paddle to move on the water; the interesting thing is that from a standing, sitting or lying position, you can control your board.

Many people think that this sport is only suitable for summer, but in fact, SUP enthusiasts around the world consider winter to be the perfect time. At this time, the weather is no longer hot, the beaches are no longer crowded and SUP spots become quiet and deserted - the whole space seems to be yours. SUP activities in winter are especially ideal for those who love freedom, quiet, and freedom. Just equip yourself with a thermal suit underwater, the cold of winter is no longer a problem that hinders players.

SUP services are now available at many tourist destinations across the country, of which some of the most popular places for SUP players are: West Lake (Hanoi), Nho Que River (Ha Giang), Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh)... If you have the equipment available, you can completely choose the SUP playing spot of your choice.

Mountain climbing combined with cloud hunting

Trekking is an activity chosen by many adventure lovers in the winter because of the uniqueness and different experiences that this type of tourism brings. Trekking in the winter is not only an activity to warm up the body quickly, but also gives you the opportunity to "hunt" the spectacular, floating sea of ​​clouds from the top of the high mountain.

Mountain climbing usually takes place in 2-3 days; weather conditions in winter are often harsher than in other seasons, from the foot of the mountain to the top there are constant changes in pressure, air, vegetation... That can be a challenge for amateur trekkers. However, the scene of the sea of ​​white clouds embracing the vast forest will certainly not disappoint you.

For first-time climbers or those who want to conquer moderate-altitude peaks, you can refer to Lao Than peak (2,860 m high), Bach Moc Luong Tu peak (3,046 m high), Ba Den mountain (986 m high)...

Participate in Northwest festivals

The Northwest in winter not only attracts tourists by the blooming of many brilliant flowers, it is also an ideal destination for those who love culture and want to learn about the life of the highland people.

In winter, ethnic people in most of the Northwestern provinces have more free time after the harvest season, they spend time organizing traditional festivals both for fun and as a way to attract tourists.

From November to March of the lunar calendar is the "golden" time for festivals in the Northwest, including famous festivals such as: buckwheat flower festival (Ha Giang); Fansipan winter festival (Sa Pa, Lao Cai); fire dancing festival (Tuyen Quang) ...

When participating in these festivals, visitors will experience the most typical cultural features of the highland people. Eating together, dancing and singing together, chatting and bonding with each other in warm, simple moments… These are all priceless experiences that not all tourists are lucky enough to have when coming to the Northwest at other times of the year.

Thanh Thuy