Relax on Son Rai Island

Tourists experience paddleboarding (SUP) on the sea off Son Rai Island.

Many interesting experiences

Hon Son Rai Island belongs to the Kien Hai Special Economic Zone. Here, the coastal road winds around the island, with clear blue water and gentle waves lapping against the shore on one side, and towering coconut trees on the other. Many tourists enjoy visiting Bai Xep beach, which boasts a beautiful coconut grove jutting out into the sea, especially a coconut tree leaning against a rock that extends into the ocean. Not far from Bai Xep is Bai Bang beach with its blue sea and white sand, where visitors can relax and recharge after a tiring day at work.

Conquering the summit of Ma Thien Lanh, 500 meters above sea level, is an exciting experience that tourists shouldn't miss when visiting Son Rai Island. To reach the summit, visitors must trek 2 kilometers through the forest and rely on local guides. About halfway up, there are resting places prepared by the locals; hammocks are hung under the trees, and water dispensers are provided at intervals. Along the way, there are decades-old mango and jackfruit trees with trunks so large that it would take several people to encircle them. Upon reaching the summit, visitors will see layers of clouds drifting over the peak and descending towards the sea; below, the mountain is covered in the green of the forest, dotted with the white blossoms of a few flowers. Gazing into the distance, one can feel the passage of time and hear the gentle breeze, creating a sense of peace. In addition, tourists can visit historical sites and religious establishments rich in maritime and island culture, such as the Ba Co Chu Temple and the Ong Nam Hai Mausoleum. If visiting at the right time, tourists can also immerse themselves in colorful local folk festivals such as the Nghinh Ong Festival in mid-October (lunar calendar) every year.

As night falls, visitors can experience the Golden Camp Hon Son, a campsite spanning over 4,000 square ^meters, nestled peacefully beneath ancient longan trees and surrounded by hundreds of large and small rocks from the entrance to the beach. “My first impression upon arriving here was the unspoiled, natural atmosphere. All the materials used are wood and bamboo, yet it ensures comfort, cleanliness, and safety,” shared Ms. Huynh Nghi, a visitor from Ca Mau province.

Delicious dish

When visiting Son Rai Island, tourists not only get to admire the beautiful scenery but also enjoy many local specialties. Visitors shouldn't miss the famous and delicious grilled squid with chili. The squid is marinated with chili and spices, then grilled until cooked through, resulting in a very fragrant dish. Many restaurants even allow diners to experience grilling their own squid. In the cheerful and lively atmosphere around the charcoal grill, enjoying the fragrant grilled squid with chili with family is an unforgettable experience.

During your journey to conquer Ma Thien Lan peak, don't forget to enjoy the garlic-fried chicken. According to locals, the garlic-fried chicken from Son Rai is made from free-range chickens raised on the mountain, with firm, sweet meat marinated in rich spices. This dish is usually served with thinly sliced young banana blossoms mixed with lime juice and sugar, so you can eat as much as you want without getting tired of it. The chicken is served on a plate, alongside a plate of young banana blossom salad mixed with fragrant coriander. Diners can use scissors to cut or tear the chicken meat with their hands. The pristine white meat and golden skin blend with the slightly astringent, sour taste of the young banana blossom salad, plus the salty-sweet flavor of the fish sauce, the spicy kick of chili, and the nutty taste of garlic... creating a rich flavor. "The chicken here is more fragrant, sweeter, and firmer than in many other places. Eating it with the young banana blossom salad is perfect; it's delicious and not at all cloying," said Ms. Nguyen Anh Nguyet, a resident of Rach Gia ward.

Fish salad is a flavorful seafood specialty that leaves a lasting impression on diners. While this type of fish is found in many coastal regions, not everywhere prepares it as deliciously as here. Fresh, filleted fish slices are seasoned to perfection, mixed with onions, grated coconut, roasted peanuts, and a touch of coriander for added aroma. Diners wrap the fish and wild herbs in rice paper, dipping it in a rich, spicy and sour fish sauce. Each tender piece of fresh fish blends perfectly with the pungent spiciness of onions and chili peppers, the richness of peanuts and grated coconut, and the sweet and salty fish sauce, creating an irresistible and harmonious flavor. Despite being raw, the dish is almost entirely free of any fishy smell thanks to the addition of lime juice, offering a unique culinary experience.

Text and photos: THUY TIEN

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/thu-gian-o-hon-son-rai-a424863.html