Dalat is the first major city as you go north into the Central Highlands of Vietnam from Saigon. The French colonists realized the value of the mild climate when they founded the city in the late 1800s. The city's architecture reflects this heritage in many villas still scene in the city. Fortunately the buildings were spared the ravages of war from the 50s to the 70s. So much of the city is as it was in colonial times.

The cool temperatures result in pine forests surrounding the lakes and rivers in the area. Waterfalls, vegetable and flower gardens attract many tourists from home and abroad. For summer tourists this is a pleasant change from the tropical heat of the lowlands and should be on any summer traveler’s itinerary. Travelers wanting to experience Dalat should consider hiring the services of one of Dalat’s Easy Riders. These guides will shuttle you around on the back of a motorbike to visit the attractions in the area. If this isn’t your style hire a taxi to take you to see the natural beauty of the mountain town.

The area is the home to first groups of montanyard (hill) tribes, also known officially as “minority people” in Vietnam, as you go north. The people of the “Chicken Village” offer hand woven silk scarves and other colorful crafts to visiting guests. The village is an excellent place to pick up several unique souvenirs for those back home. Many bargain family run inns are available in Dalat, as well as several upscale hotels. A walk around Xuan Huong Lake will build an appetite for your next meal. A few restaurants have a decidedly French flavor. Several local pastry shops entice patrons any time of the day. And aromatic coffee, grown on local plantations, completes any break or full meal anytime of the day.