#Vietnam – Đồng Đò lake

The 4th Lockdown in Vietnam seemed never-ending.   They started social distancing and restrictions on a few activities from the end of April. Unfortunately, it didn’t stop there.  The government placed more restrictions on the people as the numbers increased rapidly.  By Mid July, they had no other choice but to restrict everyone’s movement, no travel across municipal or provincial lines unless authorised to do so. 

Finally,  the government lifted restrictions on the 15th of October and granted free travel between green zones.  Relief at the idea we could escape, and I immediately took to google to find a getaway on the outskirts of Hanoi.   We had to Escape our bubble. We were becoming stir crazy looking at the same scenery day in day out. 

I found a quirky little retreat situated on the banks of Đồng Đò lake, a mere 1-hour drive from the city.  The well-appointed container home featured all the self-catering facilities with a bonus of a sandwich shop and bar situated on the roof terrace. Offering us all the amenities we would need to enjoy a peaceful getaway.

The weather was perfect, sunny, NO HUMIDITY with a cool breeze. It felt like the ideal South African weather I love and certainly miss, giving it the extra home-away-away-home feeling. A bit nostalgic, lazing next to the dam, enjoying the peace, tranquillity in a beautiful setting, chilling with the family.

Wherever we go, we always miss our country and people, so whenever we get the opportunity to light a braai, we pounce on it, rain or shine, we will braai! This holiday was no exception. Good meat, Salad and toasty garlic bread hit the spot! It was fantastic to hear the Little Rascals reminiscing and laughing about all our funny moments and adventures we have had, bonding around the fire, memorable moments we will always cherish together.

As much as the scenery and bonding were fabulous, our fishing was not. The giant finned slippery creatures still elude us in Vietnam. I believe the scale suckers know we are not Vietnamese and laugh at our lines, taunting us all the way. Regardless of the fishless fishing, everything was perfect, exactly what we needed.

If you are looking for a quirky, peaceful and relaxing getaway, you will love Gisy Lake House. The hosts are friendly and accommodating and offer a unique eco-friendly experience in a beautiful setting. Look them up when you need some fresh air and tranquillity.

360 degree view of the lake