Welcome, dear expatriate friends! Are you ready for an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Vietnam? Join us as we unveil the secrets of Quảng Ngãi, a hidden gem that captivates with its breathtaking landscapes, delectable cuisine, rich history, and unique cultural tapestry.
Are you ready to teach in this amazing area? Follow this article to learn more!
Tourist
Relax by the ocean after a long day of teaching at VUS at our new campus in Quang Ngai. Quang Ngai is comfortably tucked between the mountains and the sea, just south of Da Nang. It’s the gateway to famous Ly Son island, and has also long been home to the people of Vietnam.
Ly Son Island
Just off the coast of Quang Ngai lies Ly Son Island. Explore this volcanic island’s many beautiful beaches and vistas by motorbike, enjoy some fresh seafood and the island’s signature garlic, and relax by the crystal-clear ocean at sunset.
My Khe Beach
A little north of Quang Ngai city is Mỹ Khê Beach (not to be confused with Mỹ Khê Beach in Da Nang). This beach is known for its white sands and peaceful atmosphere, and is a great place to head for some relaxation.
Thien An Mountain
Right across the river from Quang Ngai city sits Thien An Mountain. This 100m tall hill provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It’s home to 300-year-old Thien An Pagoda, as well as the tomb of Huynh Thuc Khang, acting President of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1946 while Ho Chi Minh was in France for peace talks.
History & Culture
Quang Ngai province was also the cultural center for the ancient Sa Huỳnh people, who flourished along the central Vietnam coast between 1000 BC and AD 200. Many relics have been discovered and preserved in local museums.
One fascinating discovery was the extensive use of ceramic pottery. The Sa Huỳnh people even made large burial jars, which included the ashes of the deceased, as well as items such as tools and jewelry.
The Sa Huỳnh were also capable of making iron tools and glass jewelry, which was traded with different groups all around the neighboring sea.
Cuisine
The central coast of Vietnam has many of its own unique dishes and flavors, with the star of the show of course being fresh seafood.
- Mì Quảng is a signature dish of central Vietnam. It consists of thick rice noodles served in a flavorful broth made from pork or beef bones, turmeric, and other aromatic herbs. The soup is typically topped with thinly sliced beef or pork, shrimp, crushed peanuts, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers.
- Quảng Ngãi-style rice cakes (Bánh dày Quảng Ngãi) are made from sticky rice and are typically filled with a mixture of mung bean paste, ground pork, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The cakes have a slightly sweet and sticky texture.
- Sa Huynh is a coastal town south of Quảng Ngãi city known for its delicious grilled fish (cá nướng Sa Huỳnh). The local fishermen catch fresh seafood from the sea, and the fish is marinated with a mixture of spices, lemongrass, and garlic before being grilled over hot coals. The result is a smoky and flavorful dish that is often served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.
- Ly Son Island is famous for its garlic. The island’s volcanic soil makes for a more fragrant and sweeter flavor, with some of the rarer varieties selling for around ten times the price!
