Tam Dao used to be a French hill station built by the French in the early 1900s. Even today, traces of colonialism is still evident in the town such as elegant villas and gigantic stone churches. But Tam Dao never lost its identity as a Vietnamese community by retaining its traditional culture and structures such as even street stalls and perhaps most importantly, local delicacy.

Tam Dao is only 85 kilometers or about two hours away from Hanoi, but it is a picture of solitude that makes it seem far from any form of civilization and commercialism. In fact, one cannot expect fancy restaurants or fine dining here. One is to bring his/ her own picnic basket but with the extra breathtaking view of hills, mountains, free-roaming animals and unpolluted, fresh air.

There are several tourism attractions at Tam Dao. Tay Thien Quoc Mau Buddhist Temple is just a few minutes walk away from the town center and is situated on a hill. Guests are to light an incense stick at the small pagoda before going up the stair case, believed to be for good luck. The stair case itself is a 1000-step made of stones. The climb up may be long and exhausting, but the reward more than makes up for it with a stunning view of the national park.

Vietnam Bear Rescue Center is another must-see at Tam Dao National Park. It can be found at the edge of the park, or about 13 kilometers from town. It is home to sun and moon bears which were saved from illegal bear bile trade. Admission is free and guests have the unique experience and pleasure of watching the animals unbelievably close, in their natural habitat. The bears spend their day in spacious enclosures which they can reach and travel to through tree-lined paths which at the same time loop through a wonderful stretch of woods, all with the guide of the center's staff. The bears also have a bamboo platform which resembles a playground, but also serves a functional purpose of mimicing the trees which the bears are used to climbing to give them a feeling of comfort but actually giving them security as well to get away from other bears.

Animals Asia make up the staff at the bear rescue center, headed by Annemarie Weegenaar. The members or employees speak both English and Vietnamese and are exceptionally good tour guides. This should be a touching and unforgettable experience for visitors since most animals at the center have spent most of their lives on bile “farms,” forced to live and endure cruel conditions. To check for open house days or set up an appointment, go to www.animalsasia.org, the official website for Vietnam Bear Rescue Center.

If you're up for local food, vendors can be seen at the local market selling bananas, roasted corn, sticky rice, pho, and other Tam Dao specialties.