Volcano 117 is one of the many volcanos that can be found in Ho Chi Minh City. As its name reveals, it is located 117 metres away from the city centre.   Although only standing about 60 metres above sea level, the massive crater of the now extinct volcano will leave you gaping in awe. It seemed impossible at first but we "conquered" it in 15 minutes with the help of ropes and of course, hard toil and sweat, though the soil was loose and dry.

Within and around the volcano, many activities are carried out, from farming to the growing of papaya and tobacco. Other types of crops grown are jackfruits and bananas, with the bananas playing a major role.

The magnificient sight from above took our breaths away. Within the crater was a banana plantation occupying a quarter of the crater. We also had a bird's eye view of  nearby plantations, which could reap rich harvests with the help of alluvial soil from the volcanic land.

Dreading the way down, we took a last good view of the terraced-slopes from great heights, and a deep breath of the fresh air, something which seemed impossible to do in our developed motherland, Singapore. On the way back to the tour bus, many picked up solidified lava rocks as a momento.