At the age of U70, not choosing gentle resort trips, Mr. and Mrs. Dang Thuc Binh (Nghe An) still pursue their passion for exploring new lands. The destination this time is Mat Ngoc Lake - a lake located deep in the primeval forest, likened by many trekking lovers to the "green pearl" of Hoa Binh Lake region.
To reach Mat Ngoc Lake, the group departed from Thung Nai, moved to Ngoi Hoa wharf and then went by boat through the lake. Since docking, the familiar scenery of the city gradually receded, giving way to pristine mountains and forests. To reach Mat Ngoc Lake, the group had to cross a mountain peak and then continue down a steep slope on the other side.
The whole road is just a primeval trail, without a single meter of concrete. At the foot are ancient tree roots intertwined and sharp cat ear stone slopes. Each step must be very careful because just a mistake can cause slippage," Mr. Binh shared.
According to Mr. Binh, the journey is not too long but requires physical strength and perseverance. Each step must be careful because even a slight mistake can slip on rocks or tree roots.
What makes the trip special for him is not only the challenge of the terrain but also the companionship of his partner.
The steep slopes make both of us tired. When I slow down, she turns around to help; when she flinches in front of the steep slope, I become a support. These moments make us cherish each other even more," Mr. Binh shared.
The support of the indigenous Muong people also contributes to helping the whole group complete the journey. The guides are not only familiar with the terrain but also ready to help tourists carry luggage and overcome difficult sections.
After many hours of crossing the forest, Mat Ngoc Lake appears in the middle of a valley surrounded by primeval forests. The lake surface is pure turquoise, reflecting the green of the surrounding mountains and forests. The quiet space, almost without traces of tourism exploitation, makes many people who set foot there for the first time be surprised.
Passing through the last bush, the whole space seemed to open up before our eyes. The jade green water color is very special, clear and peaceful to the point that we just want to stand still to admire it," Mr. Binh exclaimed.
Not only impressing with its landscape, Mat Ngoc Lake also brings a rare peaceful feeling in the great forest. For Mr. and Mrs. Binh, that scene becomes even more meaningful after a journey of many challenges just gone through.
Mr. Binh said that when looking at his partner amidst the majestic mountains and forests, he realized that the handshakes pulling each other across the rocky slope, the times stopping to wait for each other on the road have become unforgettable memories. After each trip, the couple seemed to become more understanding and attached.
The journey closed with the hospitality of the Muong people. The next morning, the homestay owner directly drove the boat to bring the whole group back to the wharf, leaving visitors with an impression not only of the pristine beauty of Mat Ngoc Lake but also of the sincerity of the lake people.
For Mr. Binh, the most memorable thing after the trip is not only conquering a trekking route or exploring a new destination, but also an opportunity for the couple to continue to accompany each other on the roads of life.
At this age, happiness is not something too great. Just having a partner willing to stand shoulder to shoulder on each journey is enough to be complete," he expressed.
