After an early breakfast, we picked up bikes and went to explore the nearby paddy fields and the Tra Que garden village.
Within a matter of minutes we were out within the rice fields, on cycle paths, taking in the wonderful views and enjoying the glorious sunshine.
We had been given a route to follow to a cafe spot and we ebbed in and out around the rice fields and water channels in search of Missah Cafe, a Insta favourite stop.
The area is made for cycling, with quiet paths stretching out into the distance bordered by the sea at one side and a snaking river at the other.
Michelle soon got her cycling legs and was happy to lead the way acting as the spotter for water buffalo amongst the flooded fields.
This new mode of transport suited Michelle and there was soon a declaration that she would be happy to cycle more when we get back to the Uk!
We eventually found an ideal spot for a coffee in amongst the paddy fields and settled into our comfy chairs to take in the stunning vista.
This has to be one of the best cycle stops we’ve experienced, although my cycle buddies in Oxford will be comforted to hear that there was no bacon baguettes on offer!!!
The coffee shop itself was stunning sitting over three floors to provide the maximum views and proved to be a real haven for tourists wanting to get that perfect photo out across the paddy fields.
We then made our way to Tra Que, an area famed as the garden village where the locals farm the land growing a host of vegetables.
Such an incredible place, and what a way to spend your days with music playing in the background as the locals toil in the fields.
We then set a route to take us back along the paths bordering the water channels to our Little Oasis hotel. Such a great way to spend the morning exploring this stunning countryside.
Back at the hotel, we had a quick dip in the pool before changing and readying ourselves for a cookery course we’d booked.
Nothing says cooking like a chef’s tall hat and apron. Some might say, all the gear but still no idea….
After a brief tutorial we were soon at work preparing the entree, fresh pork spring rolls , followed by fried spiced fish and vegetables in clay pot, finishing with a banana frittata dipped in rum and honey for dessert.
The hotel chef gave us a brief overview of how to prepare each dish and we then tried our best to become the next Masterchef – although we had fierce competition from a French couple who were also on the course. I think it’s fair to say they were more disciplined with their presentation!
Within a blink of an eye the three courses were done and we were ready to sit down and try out the results.
The great news was it was not only edible but actually tasted delicious. We even got the recipes and plan to give it another go when back in Oxford.
We both polished off the three courses over lunch and we are pleased to report there was no sickness later, so the fish was properly cooked.
After our productive morning and lunch, we spent the afternoon planning out our travel route over the last few weeks in Vietnam, with the next stop being Hue before we head to the caves in Phong Nha and beyond.
Tomorrow looks like the first wet day in a while, so it may prove to be a quieter affair.
@travellingwiththeateam 