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Thu Quynh is a freelancer in Ba Vi, Hanoi. Because she works independently and can arrange her work online, she can travel for extended periods and live with locals. She planned to visit Da Lat in November or December, when the weather is pleasant and many flowers are in bloom. However, she decided to go right when Da Lat's rainy season began. Speaking to Travellive, Quynh said she doesn't regret not choosing a more favorable time, believing that Da Lat has its own unique beauty in every season.
"If we keep hesitating, when will we ever get there? I want to go now, and I can return to Da Lat at other times," Thu Quynh shared.
Before leaving, Thu Quynh meticulously planned her expenses. Therefore, during her month-long stay in Da Lat, she didn't spend too much money but still enjoyed the comfortable experience. Regarding costs, Thu Quynh believes that prices in Da Lat are not much different from Hanoi and Bac Ninh, where she used to live.
Dalat in the mist always has a unique charm.
Dalat in the rain has a calm and gentle charm.
Living among the local people is an unforgettable experience.
Greenhouses for growing flowers, vegetables, and fruits in Da Lat.
Thu Quynh found a place to rent a room on a monthly basis. She only spent around 2.5 million VND/month to rent a nice room located near the city center. For transportation, Quynh rented a motorbike for 100,000 VND/day or 1.5 million VND/month. Admitting she's not a food lover, Quynh uses food apps, asks friends for recommendations, or visits places frequented by locals. For her, the cost of these things wasn't too expensive.
"Da Lat during the rainy season has something very chill about it compared to other places; it's gentle and peaceful. It feels like you're completely immersed in nature," Thu Quynh told Travellive.
Thu Quỳnh met many friends and formed new relationships during the trip.
Barbecuing and camping on the hill gives a really relaxing feeling.
From Thu Quynh's perspective, the rain blankets the mountain town in a romantic curtain of water. However, she advises caution when traveling in the current weather. Da Lat has many short and steep roads, some with steep inclines that can be slippery and dangerous for tourists. Tourist attractions are often far from the city center, and some areas have bad roads or landslides. Tourists should plan and choose destinations that are suitable for the weather conditions of the day.
"My one-month experience living here gave me more than I expected. I gained new friends and saw amazing scenery. I met more people and listened to more stories, which made me love life more and appreciate what I have," Thu Quynh replied when asked what she gained from choosing to visit Da Lat during the rainy season.
Let's put up a mosquito net together to take shelter from the rain.
Although strangers, shared goals will attract each other.
There are times when I simply sit in one place and admire the scenery shrouded in mist.
Efficiently managing her work schedule allowed Quynh to gain more experience.
This rainy trip to Da Lat was like a workation session for Thu Quynh. She divided and arranged her work so that she could both experience everything to the fullest and meet deadlines. Thu Quynh usually works in the morning and at noon, and spends the afternoon relaxing. On days when she plans to go on a trip or spend a whole day or half-day outing, Thu Quynh will arrange her work the night before.
Da Lat has many places to visit, as many people review. Thu Quynh often books picnics at May Da Lat, climbing the hills to watch the sunset, then relaxing until evening, barbecuing, and socializing with friends. Her favorite spots include La Ba Bridge, Cau Dat tea plantation, etc.
"If I return to Da Lat, I will come back during the flowering seasons, when the cherry blossoms, white bauhinia flowers, or purple jacaranda flowers bloom. I've heard stories and seen many pictures, but I haven't had the chance to admire this scenery yet," Thu Quynh said.
