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It was an open secret, everyone knew about the place. Even travelers like me made it a point to visit the Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park.
Growing up, my mum had a big impact on me. She was always the skeptic and cautious one when it comes to strangers and foreign places. It was great to have her in the back of my head sometimes as it would make me think twice before jumping into situations that would get me in trouble. But this time I knew I had to do it regardless of how crazy or dangerous it would be. It was both exciting and scary at the same time.
In my first attempt in the afternoon, I followed Google Maps and went through the main entrance. Funny enough a number of travelers like me had the same idea. We convene at the gates with our motorbikes to soon realized that we were blocked by a security guard who refused to let us enter. As the crowd gathered, we suddenly saw a couple of motorbikes came out of the park. It was an awkward moment and clearly indicated that while the water park was officially closed off, people still sneak in from time to time.
Some of the people tried to reason, negotiate or even bribe the guard to let us in, but somehow he felt it was the best time to stood his ground and be righteous, refusing our plead to enter. As I saw it was futile to wait any longer, I proceeded to my next destination.
As I finish my tour of the Tien Mu Pagoda within the city vicinity of Hue, I felt I had a lot more time left before the sun went down. Not wanting to miss out on the opportunity, I quickly took my motorbike and beeline to the water park. I found that there was another way in through the residential area next to the park.
Soon I arrived at what seems to be the spectator seating area, it was abandoned as well, but there were a couple of locals, dressed nicely and were probably there for an Instagram session.
I was clearly opposite of the lake and could already see the iconic dragon head. Time was definitely ticking and the sun was setting.
Not wanting to be at such a place when there is no more light, I zoomed my way through a narrow paved walkway right next to the lake and arrived at the main attraction.
Same as the other side, there were also a couple of youngsters there taking Instagrammables.
I rushed up the monument and up into the dragon's mouth. The spine-tingling sensation crept through my body as inside was really dark. Once I reached the mouth, I wasted no time setting up my camera and took a couple of photos. Then I stopped and took a moment to soak in the moment and admire the place as twilight draws nearer.
Soon I picked up my gear and departed from the creepy yet enchanting place. Knowing that I did myself justice by going on this crazy adventure.
*Note: The local authorities have plans to give the place a new lease based on this May 2020 report.*
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