27/03/2026

LYFE FRIDAY | MAR 27, 2026

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Quick Vietnam getaway

F OR Malaysian travellers looking for a quick reset without the hassle of long travel hours, Central Vietnam is quietly becoming one of the most practical options. Within just a few hours, the pace shifts from city rush to coastal calm, where beach mornings, cafe hopping and cultural day trips can all fit into a long weekend. Da Nang sits at the centre of it all. The city has grown into more than just a transit point. It is now a destination in its own right, with a laid-back coastline, a growing food scene and easy access to some of Vietnam’s most iconic spots, including the heritage towns of Hoi An and Hue, both just a short drive away. Getting there, however, is what makes the experience feel effortless. Less time travelling, more time exploring A direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Da Nang takes less than three hours, making it possible to leave mid afternoon and arrive in time for an early evening by the coast. Vietjet currently operates a daily direct flight on this route, offering a convenient option for travellers looking to maximise their time at the destination. Airlines such as Vietjet have expanded direct connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and key Vietnamese cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and now Da Nang, making it easier for travellers to plan shorter, more spontaneous trips. It also changes how people approach travel. Da Nang is no longer reserved for longer holidays. It fits comfortably into a four-day break or even a last-minute getaway. o Da Nang offers coastal paradise just hours away from KL

The Dragon Bridge is an unmissably majestic landmark of Da Nang. – ALL PIC S FR OM 123RF

Journey that matters While the destination often takes centre stage, the travel experience itself can shape the mood of the entire trip. A smoother airport process, fewer queues and a more relaxed boarding experience can set the tone before the holiday even begins. For those looking for a more seamless experience, Vietjet’s SkyBoss option offers noticeable conveniences with just a few hundred ringgit more than the standard fare. Priority check-in and boarding help cut down waiting time, while lounge access provides a quieter space before departure.

Onboard, the difference is equally subtle but appreciated. A more comfortable seat at the front of the cabin, along with attentive service and inflight meals, adds to a more relaxed journey without feeling excessive. For many travellers today, it is about finding that balance where comfort enhances the trip without significantly increasing the overall cost. Da Nang at your own pace Arriving in Da Nang, the shift is immediate. The city feels open and unhurried. Motorbikes move steadily along wide roads, while the coastline stretches out with cafes and hotels facing the sea. There is no pressure to rush through an itinerary. Some visitors choose to spend their mornings by the beach and their evenings exploring local eateries. Others take advantage of Da Nang’s central location to explore nearby Hoi An, known for its lantern-lit streets, or Hue, the former imperial capital rich in history and architecture. The appeal lies in its flexibility. It can be as relaxed or as packed as you want it to be. Why Vietnam keeps drawing Malaysians back Vietnam’s popularity among

Hoi An is cherished across the world for its beautiful lantern-lit streets.

Nepal to allow solo trekkers to visit restricted mountain areas

which were built from the ninth to the 13th centuries. The Southeast Asian country’s most popular tourist destination attracted a total of 955,131 international tourists in 2025, generating a gross revenue of US$44.7 million (RM178.4 million) from ticket sales, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise. – Bernama-Xinhua much as those looking for their next short escape. Journey that feels easy What stands out about travelling to Da Nang today is not just the destination, but how simple the entire journey has become. Direct connectivity, efficient travel time and small onboard comforts all contribute to a smoother experience from start to finish. For many, that ease is what turns a one-time trip into a habit and sometimes, that is exactly what a good getaway should be.

Malaysian travellers continues to grow, and it is not hard to see why. The mix of culture, food and scenery offers variety without requiring long travel times or high costs. Meals are affordable, experiences feel authentic and each city offers something slightly different. From the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City to the history of Hanoi and the coastal charm of Da Nang, there is always a reason to return. More importantly, it remains a destination that feels approachable. It suits first-time travellers just as

NEPAL will allow solo foreign trekkers to visit designated restricted areas by ending the group-only permit system, the Immigration Department said on Monday, reported Xinhua. The South Asian country has designated 15 areas across 13 mountain districts as restricted areas. In a notice published on its website, the department said the

decision was to address complaints from travel trade entrepreneurs. However, solo travel to these areas will be subject to certain conditions, including submitting applications through a trekking agency, assigning a trekking guide and requiring the concerned agency to take full responsibility for rescue operations in emergencies, among others. – Bernama-Xinhua

Tourists enjoy equinox sunrise at Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat HUGE crowds of tourists rallied in front of the famed Angkor Wat temple in northwest Cambodia earlier this week to watch the stunning sunrise during the spring equinox, reported Xinhua. of Angkor Wat,”Tourism Minister Huot Hak said in a post on social media. “The equinox sunrise is an extraordinary and rare phenomenon that occurs only twice a year,” he added. Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap province, said the Angkor equinoxes happen twice a year. during which the sun rises above the central tower of Angkor Wat, creating a stunning spectacle bequeathed to humanity by our Khmer ancestors and offering insights into both faith and science,” the ANA said. Angkor Wat is one of the major

The first event, called the vernal equinox, can happen between March 21 and 23, while the second event, called the autumnal equinox, can occur between Sept 21 and 23, the ANA said in a news release. “The Angkor equinox is an event

The Apsara National Authority (ANA), the government agency responsible for managing, safeguarding and preserving the

“A large number of national and international tourists gathered to capture memorable photos of the sunrise aligning with the central tower

temples in the Unesco-listed Angkor Archaeological Park. The 401 sq km park is home to 91 ancient temples,