Da Lat

People

Dalat has a humble population of just over 400,000 people in 2015. Just 10 years ago, 40% of its population was foreign, mainly French and Chinese nationalities. The composition of Dalat ethnicity is highly diverse. Due to historical reasons, different ethnicities of the whole country have reunited and settled into a united community inhabiting in this highlands such as Lach, Sre and Chil. The city is young and over 30% of the population is under 15. Residents here still live of gardening and farming while the rest are focused on trading.

Cuisine

Due to its unique mix of community, the choices of restaurants are plentiful, from high-end to affordable eats in the markets. Some restaurants with relaxing views can be found around the lakes such as Ho Tuyen Lam lake. Due to its French colonial past, there are multiple French gourmet restaurants such as Le Moulin Rouge, Le Rabelais and Le Petit Dalat. Foreigners can additionally explore the night markets and evening snacks after 8PM at the Dalat Central Market with a variety of choices such as barbecued rice paper served in tiny stool by the little charcoal brazier. Grown in the region’s rich soil, tea and coffee are Dalat’s specialties and can be found in high tea parlors.

Attractions

All attractions are blended with nature. Locals like to take a drive around the mountains to contemplate the natural beauty of countless national parks, forest hills, waterfalls and religious grounds such as the Linh Son and the Linh Phuoc Pagoda. Just northwest of Central Dalat City is the popular Melinh Coffee Garden and Cau Dat Tea Hills where many locals and foreigners can hand pick the coffee beans, tea leaves, and enjoy their flavors afterward. 

Activities

Due to its high altitude, pine-covered hills, lakes and high peaks, the region offers numerous outdoor activities such as abseiling, scrambling, zip-lining, hiking an cliff jumping in the beautiful canyons and waterfalls. Golfing is also a favourite sport for foreign visitors. Home to the 3 oldest yet considerably most challenging golf courses in Vietnam, Dalat is attracting golf players from around Asia, especially those from Korea. Due to its potential, Dalat has seen the emergence of many luxury golf resorts projects such as Dalat at 1200. Alternatively, gardening and fruit picking are other enjoyable yet relaxing activities which can be done during the day time.