TRAVEL TIPS - Traveling & Sharing...

Tips on Travelling To Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:24:15 PST

Asia is the largest and the most populated continent in the world, with population close to 4 billion people. There are 48 countries inside Asia and the continent is also being divided in some regions. The most popular one among tourists will be South East Asia.

As the name implies, this region is located to the south of Asia and there are eleven countries inside the region. If you want to go for a vacation in South East Asian countries, you must use the services provided by the car rental companies because they are really cheap. If you rent a car, you will be sure that your vacation will be more enjoyable.

Here, we will tell you specific tips on travelling to three countries of South East Asia; Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines.

Vietnam

The main place of attraction in Vietnam will be Hanoi located to the south and Ho Chi Minh City at the other end of the country. Both of these cities are highly modernized but not all cities in Vietnam experience the same thing. You can even see some old towns inside the country that is still lack of basic facilities and such. Every tourist that comes to this country will need a visa except for those who are from Thailand and Philippines. On a more important note, buy mosquito repellents to protect you from those insects during the night as mosquito related diseases are quite common in Vietnam.

Thailand

The Thais are a religious community so you must not disrespect the customs that they have whenever you visit the temples known as ‘wat’. The same word is also being used in other countries nearby like Cambodia to represent their temples. Do not insult the Thais by touching them on the head as it will be their greatest insult especially to total strangers. Thais are always known for their politeness so give them the same level of respect.

Philippines

Philippines is quite a special country because it has thousands of islands all around the main island. As it is an archipelago of islands, the beaches will be the main tourist spots inside the country while the best activity that you can do here is island hopping. There is always something to see here and you will be impressed with the beauty of the resorts here that complement the beauty of the nature given by God to this country.

Vietnam to offer tax refunds for tourists

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:01:40 PST

Dulichbui's Blog - The government has decided to pilot a value-added-tax refund scheme for foreign visitors in July in an attempt to boost sales of local products.

Foreigners who make purchases in Vietnam and leave the country via Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City will receive VAT reimbursements, according to statement on the government’s website.

The goods are required to be brand new and not on the list of prohibited items. A valid invoice with a value of at least VND2 million (US$95) and a tax claim statement are required.

Commercial banks selected to handle the tax repayments are allowed to charge a service fee of up to 15 percent of the refund value. The refund will be made in Vietnam dong and can be converted to other currencies accordingly.

The pilot program will last from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2014. Retailers must register with the authorities to join the scheme, the government said in the statement.

Thanh Nien News

Wild Sunflower, Dalat (2011)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:32:33 PST

This time, if you travel to Da Lat you will see Wild Sunflowers (Helianthus) everywhere: The Truc Lam Zen Buddhist Pagoda (Truc Lam Temple), Dalat Train Station, Park,... These are some photo of wild sunflowers that i took in Dalat Train Station (11/2011):

Photo: Tùng Lâm

Bangkok Flood Updates (November 7th, 2011)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:13:28 PST

The flooding situation in Thailand is mainly affecting the central provinces along the Chao Phraya River including Bangkok and Ayutthaya. Other popular tourist destinations in the central region including Pattaya, Hua Hin, Kanchanaburi and Ko Chang have not been affected by the floods. Tourist destinations in the south of Thailand including Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Ko Samui, Hat Yai and Phang-Nga; and in the north including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Sukhothai, also have not been affected by the floods.

Flood waters in Ayutthaya and some other central provinces have begun to subside, although many areas are not yet fully accessible. Tourist attractions in Ayutthaya will reopen once they have been restored.

Events relating to Loy Krathong, an ancient tradition that has been celebrated since the Sukhothai Era, will still take place in many locations throughout Thailand including Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Tak, Hat Yai and Surat Thani during November 8th to 10th. Some Loy Krathong events have been cancelled in Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Suphanburi due to the flood.

Situation in Bangkok

Areas flooded in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area includes suburbs in the east and west, the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, and districts in the northern part of the city. In central Bangkok, businesses, hotels, shops and tourist attractions remain open as per normal in areas including:

• Khao San Road

• Ratchaprasong (Central World area)

• Phetchaburi Road

• Sathorn

• Ploenchit/ Chidlom

• Siam Square/ MBK/ Siam Paragon

• Pratunam

• Silom/ Surawongse

• Rama 1 Road

• Sukhumvit Road/ The Emporium

• Rama 4 Road

• Yaowarat (Chinatown)

Given the rapidly changing nature of the flooding situation in Bangkok, visitors should also check multiple sources of information to make an informed decision about whether they should visit central Bangkok at the present time.

The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are operating normally at this time. Visitors are advised to check with the BTS and MRT regarding the current status of their operations. Taxis and tuk tuks are available as per usual. Many BMTA bus routes have been rerouted or suspended due to the flooding. Express boat services on the Chao Phraya River have also been suspended, as have most water-related tourist activities.

Transportation

Airports

Bangkok is served by two airports. Suvarnabhumi Airport, the main gateway to Thailand with 120 international and domestic airlines, remains open. It has considerable flood protection measures in place. Suvarnabhumi Airport is also the main connector for international arrivals to domestic flights serving tourist destinations throughout Thailand such as Phuket, Chiang Mai and Surat Thani. Domestic flights are operating as per normal between Suvarnabhumi Airport and other airports in Thailand.

Transportation to and from the airport into central Bangkok including taxis, buses and the Airport Rail Link have not been affected by the floods and are operating normally. Highways from the airport to tourist destinations southeast of Bangkok such as Pattaya, Rayong and Ko Chang are open.

Don Mueang Airport, the old international airport, is closed due to flooding. The two domestic airlines operating from Don Mueang have temporarily switched their operations to Suvarnabhumi Airport.

A “Tourist Assistance Center” is set up on the 3rd floor of Airport Rail Link’s Makkasan Station to facilitate tourists’ transport from hotels in central Bangkok to the airport. TAT and Thai Hotels Association (THA) are providing free transportation from hotels to Makkasan Station. The Tourist Police will assist tourists at Makkasan Station and at the airport. Tourists who would like to use this service can contact the Tourist Assistance Center via the TAT Call Center at 1672, or the Tourist Police at 1155.

State Railway of Thailand and inter-provincial bus services:

State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and inter-provincial bus services are operating as per usual in areas that are not affected by the floods. In Bangkok and other areas affected by the floods, the SRT and inter-provincial bus service operators are adjusting their routes to best serve passengers given the disruptions caused by the flooding. Inter-provincial buses from Bangkok to southern provinces are leaving from a temporary station with shuttle services to and from the Southern Bus Terminal, also known as Sai Tai Mai.

Train services to northeastern Thailand are operating as per normal. Train services to the northern provinces are operating between Hua Lamphong station in central Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Trains to the north are being rerouted around flooded areas, adding approximately two hours of travel time. Train services to the southern provinces are operating from Hua Lamphong station or Nakhon Pathom if required due to flooding in Bangkok’s western suburbs. The SRT is providing shuttle bus services between Hua Lamphong station and Nakhon Pathom when needed. Travelers are advised to check in advance with these operators and may want to consider flying to their destinations within Thailand.

Accommodation

For Tourist who would like to move to /check in at hotel in unaffected area in Bangkok and other city of Thailand, Check out the below information

• Sukhumvit Area

• Siam Square Area

• Pratunam Area

• Khaosan Area

• Silom Area

• Sathorn Area

• Suvarnabhumi Airport Area

• Petchburi Area

• Ploenchit / Chidlom Area

• China Town Area

• Ratchaprasong Area

Attractions

• Future Park Rangsit closed

• Dream World closed

• Central Pinklao closed

• Central Ramindra closed

• Central Ladprao closed

• Chatuchak weekend market closed

• Fashion Island closed

• The Mall Bang Kae closed

Chatuchak market open as usual
The Chatuchak weekend market is still open as usual although floodwater is swelling through the drains at a section next to the army's Land Transport Department on Phahon Yothin road, market's deputy director Tinakorn Rujirong announced on Sunday. Pumps are being used to drain water out and keep the market dry.
Vehicles can enter the market through Gate No 1. About 50 per cent of the shops have been opened.
The water level outside the market this morning was 50-60 centimetres high.

Photo: Bangkok Post

USEFUL NUMBERS:

• Government Call Center: 1111 ext 5

• Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department Hotline: 1784

• Royal Irrigation Department Hotline: 1460

• Emergency Medical Institute Hotline: 1669

• Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Hotline: 1555

• BMS’s flood response center 02-2485115

• Highway Hotline: 1586

• Highway Police: 1193

• State Railway of Thailand Hotline: 1690

• Transport Co. Hotline: 1490

• JS100 community radio: 1137

Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand

Thailand Flooding Update (Oct 23, 2011)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 23:59:31 PDT

Over the past several weeks, seasonal rains that are heavier than usual have resulted in widespread flooding in Thailand. While the flooding is having some impact on tourism, most key tourist destinations and attractions throughout Thailand have not been affected by the floods and almost all remain open.

Bangkok Flood Round Up (Bangkok Post)

The floods are mainly affecting the provinces in central Thailand and a few provinces in the north and northeast. Flood waters in some provinces in northern Thailand have begun to subside. Provinces in the south of Thailand have not been affected by the floods. Ayutthaya has been the only tourist destination widely affected by the floods, while other provinces where tourists generally go have been slightly impacted.

Major tourist destinations such as central Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Sukhothai, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Pattaya, Ko Chang, Rayong, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Ko Samui, and all

provinces in southern Thailand, are not affected by the floods. They remain fully accessible and are experiencing normal weather conditions for this time of year.

All airports in Thailand, including Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, have not been affected by the floods and are operating as per usual. Suvarnabhumi Airport has considerable flood protection measures in place and officials are monitoring the situation closely.

Flood waters are being drained through Bangkok’s system of canals in a controlled manner. Most areas of central Bangkok where tourists normally go are not flooded and fully accessible. Some of the city’s outlying suburbs and areas along the Chao Phraya River are experiencing localized flooding. The government has enacted measures under which military personnel are helping to protect central Bangkok and key transportation facilities such as Suvarnabhumi Airport from flooding.

Tourist destinations in the north, such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Sukhothai, are best accessed by air as some roads and railways in the central provinces are closed due to the floods. Provinces in southern and eastern Thailand remain fully accessible by road and train.

Train services from Bangkok to northern destinations are suspended due to the tracks being flooded. The

State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is offering full refunds on tickets for travelers who want to cancel their trips to destinations where train service is suspended. Train services to other parts of Thailand are available as per normal.

Tourists planning to travel to the provinces affected by the floods are advised to check the latest weather forecasts for their destination and confirm arrangements with the transportation providers with which they will be travelling. Tourists can call the TAT Information Line at 1672 to check local conditions, or visit the Thailand Meteorological Department web site at http://www.tmd.go.th/en for updated weather forecasts.

Major events going ahead as planned include

Phimai Festival, from November 9th to 13th, at Phimai Historical Park in Nakhon Ratchasima province
The 5th Thailand International Balloon Festival in Chiang Mai from November 25th to 27th.
Loi Krathong Festival and Candle Festival in Sukhothai, from November 8th and November 10th at the Sukhothai Historical Park.
The Royal Flora Ratchaphruek Fair 2011 in Chiang Mai, although the opening date has been moved back from November 9th to December 16th.

T.A.T Update (Oct 23, 2011)

Photos: Mekong delta on a motorcycle

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 18:29:37 PDT

Two men, one motorcycle - we drove through the Mekong Delta for 5 days. They are exciting experiences.

Our destination:

Day 1: Saigon - Long An - Dong Thap - Chau Doc

Day 2: Chau Doc - Tra Su - Ba Chuc - Ha Tien

Day 3: Ha Tien - U Minh Thuong - Ca Mau

Day 4: Ca Mau - Bac Lieu - Soc Trang - Can Tho

Day 5: Can Tho - My Tho - Saigon

There are some pictures that i took during our trip.

Binh Hiep border gate (from there you can entrance to Cambodia)

A small boat

Ferry (from Dong Thap to An Giang)

Sunset

Floating house village in Chau Doc

Xe loi

Ba Chuc Tomb

Untitle

See from Sam mountain

Snakehead fish

Tra Su Forest

Travel news: Flooding in Thailand 2011 (update)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 19:09:11 PDT

The current flooding is having some impact on tourism. Key tourist destinations and attractions across Thailand are not damaged by the floods and most are open. Provinces in the other parts of Thailand including the northeast, east, west and south are not affected by the floods. Major tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai, Loei, Phuket, Krabi and Samui are experiencing normal weather conditions.

Flooding in Bangkok - Photo: Reuters

The floods are mainly affecting land in low-lying agricultural areas and adjacent to major waterways such as the Chao Phraya River. Warnings of heavy rains resulting in localized flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas or areas adjacent to waterways have been issued for several provinces.

Certain areas of several provinces in north and central Thailand including Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Chai Nat, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Kampheang Phet, Khon Kaen, Lamphun, Lop Buri, Mae Hong Son, Mahasarakham, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Prachin Buri, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Sukhothai, Suphan Buri, Ubon Ratchathani, and Uthai Thani have been affected by floods due to heavier-than-usual seasonal rains.

The crest of the floodwaters is currently passing through Bangkok. Most parts of the city have not been affected, while flooding is occurring in some areas adjacent to the Chao Phraya River. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has comprehensive flood control measures in place and is monitoring the situation closely.

All airports throughout Thailand are operating as per normal. Train services from Bangkok to northern destinations beyond Lop Buri are suspended, with only limited services in the areas affected by the flooding.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is offering full refunds on tickets for travelers who want to cancel their trips to destinations where train service is suspended. Travelers can contact the SRT Call Center at 1690 for updates regarding train services. Highway 32, also known as The Asian Highway (AH-2), is partly affected by the floods and closed from Km 21 to Km 39 in Ayutthaya province.

Tourists planning to travel to the provinces affected by the floods are advised to check the latest weather forecasts for their destination and confirm arrangements with the transportation providers with which they will be travelling. Tourists can also call the TAT Information Line at 1672 to check local conditions, or visit the Thailand Meteorological Department web site at http://www.tmd.go.th/en for updated weather forecasts.

Attractions and roads affected by flooding as of 7 October 2011

Ang Thong

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding. Visitors should use alternate routes:

- Pho Thong – Ang Thong Road

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding

- Wat Ang Thong Worawihan

- Wat Chaiyo Worawihan

- Wat Khun Inthapramun

- Wat Pamok Worawihan

Chai Nat

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- The Chao Phraya River Crossing Bridge, in front of Wat Thammamun Worawihan - Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao

- Some parts of Highway 3183

- Chai Nat – Manorom Road

- The weir on Chao Phraya Dam Road

- Highway 1 Chai Nat – Tar Klee

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as:

- To Amphoe Muang, Chai Nat: use Highway 340 Bang Bua Thong – Suphan Buri – Chai Nat

- To Nakhon Sawan or other northern provinces: use The Asian Highway (AH-2), also known as Highway 32

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding

- Ton Nam Tha Chin Market

- Wat Khao Tha Phra

- Wat Pak Khlong Makham Thao

- Wat Thammamun Worawihan

Chaiyaphum

Attractions affected by flooding but remain open

- Attractions in Amphoe Ban Khwao, Chaiyaphum province

- Tat Ton National Park - water-related activities are temporarily suspended as flash flood warnings have been issued

Kalasin

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Lam Pao Wildlife Conservation Development and Promotion Station or Suan Sa-On

Kampheang Phet

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Khlong Lan National Park

- Wat Phra Borom That Nakhon Chum

Khon Kaen

Attraction temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Nam Phong National Park

Lamphun:

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- Highway 106 Amphoe Li - Amphoe Ban Hong, in Lamphun province

Lop Buri

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding

- Highway 2275 Chai Badan – Bueng Sam Phan Road, Km. 0-4

- Lop Buri Bypass, Km. 8-19

- Lop Buri – Sing Buri Road, Km. 159-166

- Lop Buri – Pho Kao Ton Road, Km. 76-94

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as

- Highway 21 Chai Badan – Si Thep Road

- The Asian Highway Network

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Khao Samo Khon

- Wat Cheng Tha

- Wat Kung Tha Lao

- Wat Lai

- Wat Manee Cholkhan

- Wat Samor Khon

- Wat Thammikaram

- Wat Tong Pu

- Wat Yang Na Rangsi and the Lop Buri Boat Museum

Mae Hong Son

The following road should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- Route to Salawin River, Mae Sa Rieng – Mae Sam Lab Road

Mahasarakham

Attraction temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Kosumphee Forest Park

Nakhon Nayok

Attraction temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Sarika Waterfall

Nakhon Pathom

Attractions affected by flooding but remain open:

- Bang Luang Old Market

- Khlong Maha Sawat

Nakhon Ratchasima

Attractions affected by flooding but remain open:

- Sai Ngam in Phimai

- Khao Yai National Park and Tab Lan National Park - water-related activities are temporarily

suspended as flash flood warnings have been issued

Nakhon Sawan

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- In Buri – Tak Fa Road

- Nakhon Sawan – Kam Pheang Phet Bypass

- Road between Amphoe Krok Phra in Nakhon Sawan – Uthai Thani

- Highway 117 Nakhon Sawan – Phichit – Phitsanulok

- Route to Amphoe Chum Saeng, Nakhon Sawan province

- Route to Mae Wong National Park

- Route to Wat Pa Siri Wattana Wisut

- Tar Klee – Ban Mi Road

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as:

- Kam Pheang Phet – Phichit – Phitsanulok Road

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Attractions, restaurants, hotels and lodging along the Chao Phraya River

- Bung Boraphet & Water Bird Park

- Ko Yom

- Thepharak Shrine

- Wat Kei Chai Nua

- Wat Ko Hong

- Wat Pa Siri Wattana Wisut

- Wat Phra Prang Leuang & Retro Weekend Market

- Wat Takien Leuan

Nakhon Sawan’s traditional Long-tailed Boat Competition is postponed from 7-16 October 2011 until 15-24 November 2011.

Phichit

Attractions affected by flooding but remain open:

- Wat Pho Prathap Chang, Amphoe Pho Prathap Chang

- Wat Hirunyaram (Wat Bang Klan), Amphoe Pho Talay

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding. Visitors should use alternate routes:

- Route to Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine and Wat Thalo, Amphoe Thalo

- Route to Nakhon Chai Baworn Forest Park

- Route to Wat Puttha Ket Mongkol

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine, Amphoe Thalo

- Nakhon Chai Baworn Forest Park, Amphoe Pho Talay

- Wat Puttha Ket Mongkol (Wat Thewa Prasat), Amphoe Taphan Hin

Phitsanulok

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Night Bazaar

- Suan Chom Nan Park

Prachin Buri

Attraction temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Prachin Buri National Museum

Saraburi

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- Highway 3034 Na Phra Lan – Cement plant at Ban Mor Road, km. 14-16

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as:

- Phra Putthabat – Ban Mo Road

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Ban Ton Tan Floating Market

- Thai Yuan Cultural Study Centre

Sing Buri

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding. Visitors should use

alternate routes:

- Highway 309 Sing Buri – Ang Thong

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- In Buri National Museum

- Pak Bang Market

- Wat Amphawan

- Wat Klang Thanarin

- Wat Kudi Thong

- Wat Muang

- Wat Sutthawas

Sukhothai

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- Highway 1195 to Sukhothai Airport

- Khlong Pho Junction on Route 12 from the center of Sukhothai to Sukhothai Historical Park

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as:

- From Nakhon Sawan to Sukhothai: Use roads that pass through Phichit and Phitsanulok

- To Sukhothai Airport: Use Highway 101

Suphan Buri

The following road should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- Highway 340

Visitors should use alternate routes, such as:

- Highway 321

- Highway 333

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Wat Manao

- Wat Pu Bua

- Wat Pho Charoen

- Wat Phrao

- Wat Sam Pasiu

- Wat Wora Chan

- Kao Hong Market

- Pho Phraya Market

Ubon Ratchathani

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Had Ku Dua

- Had Wat Tai

Uthai Thani

Attractions and activities that are not affected by flooding:

- The “Tak Bat Thewo,” merit-making event will still be held on the morning of 13 October 2011 as

planned, with monks from Khao Sakae Krang

The following roads should be avoided as some sections are closed due to flooding:

- All roads on Ko The Pho

- Highway 333 to Amphoe Phayuha Kiri

- Road from Amphoe Krok Phra, Nakhon Sawan province to Uthai Thani

- Ferry service between Chai Nat to Uthai Thani are suspended

Visitors should use alternate routes such as:

- From Bangkok to Uthai Thani: use Don Jedi – Dan Chang – Ban Rai – Uthai Thani Road

- From Nakhon Sawan or other northern provinces to Uthai Thani:

use Lad Yao – Sawang Arom – Tab Tun – Uthai Thani

Attractions temporarily closed due to flooding:

- Agricultural tourism attractions

- Biking route on Koh The Pho

- In the city of Uthai Thani and Koh The Pho, most attractions, accommodations and restaurants are

temporarily closed

- Local History and Cultural Museum

- Route for “Visiting 9 Temples a Day”

- The Museum Hok Saetung

- “Trok Rong Ya” Walking Street

- Wat Chan Tharam (Wat Tha Soong)

- Wat U Po Satharam (Wat Bot)

- Uthai Thani’s Traditional Long-tailed Boat Competition 2011 is cancelled

Tourism Authority of Thailand - News

Video: Son Doong Cave

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 21:06:18 PDT

Son Doong cave (Vietnamese: Hang Sơn Đoòng) is a cave in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam. The biggest chamber of Son Doong is over five kilometers in length, 200 meters high and 150 meters wide. With these dimensions, Son Doong overtakes Deer Cave in Malaysia to take the title of the world's largest cave.

Ha Giang: Terraces and Stone plateau

noreply@blogger.com (Tùng Lâm) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 07:32:00 PDT

Hà Giang is a province of northeastern Vietnam. It is located in the far north of the country, and contains Vietnam’s northernmost point. Hà Giang has many high rocky mountains (lime stone formations) and springs and that is a reason why there are a lot of trekking tourist want to travel to there.

Ha Giang Photos by Le Tuong - old traveler (over 70 year old).

Terraces in Hoàng Su Phì

Núi Đôi (Double Mountain)

The way to Mã Pí Lèng

Mã Pí Lèng

From Mã Pí Lèng

Mã Pí Lèng

Stone plateau

Dong Van stone plateau

stone plateau

Lung cu flag tower on the top of Lung Cu mountain of plateau Dong Van

On the way to Lũng Cú flag tower

Dao Ethnic Girl

Lê Tường - Author

Photo by Le Tuong

Photos: Ha Tien town (Kien Giang)

noreply@blogger.com (Tùng Lâm) — Sat, 14 May 2011 01:49:57 PDT

Ha Tien Town in Kien Giang Province is famous for its countless breathtaking landscapes, beautiful coastlines, cultural delights and historical significance.

Ha Tien is such a delightful location that a French film company chose it to produce the movie "L'amant" (The Lover) in 1995.

How to get there:
From Ho Chi Minh city, you can take a bus (From Mien Tay Bus Station) ag: Kumho,...
Where to stay
It is easy to find a place to stay in Ha Tien.
You can find hotels that's located near by riverside.
Where to visit
Thach Dong
Mac Cuu Temple
Pagodas
Mui Nai Beach

These are some photos that i took in Ha Tien:

Mac Cuu Park

Mac Cuu temple

Phu Dung Pagoda

Thach Dong

From Thach Dong...

Head of bird in Thach Dong

Memorial

A stone mountain

Stone mountain

Mui Nai Beach

Mui Nai beach

Maui Nai beach

It's me

Ha Tien Border gate

Photos: Ho Coc, Ho Tram Beach

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 07:50:54 PDT

Ho Coc and Ho Tram are small beaches community located in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, in Xuyen Moc district. It is situated about 125 kilometers South East of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). At present, there are a lot of resort are building in Ho Coc and Ho Tram, in the near future, Ho Coc and Ho Tram will become "Mui Ne 2" in Vietnam.

Salt field in Ba Ria town

Sand dunes in Ho Tram

A new resort is building

Ho Coc Beach

How to get there?

From Ho Chi Minh City, you can rent a motor cycle or a car to get there.

Where to stay?

You can stay at some resorts in this area: Furama Resort Ho Coc (building), Ho Tram Beach, Saigon-Binh Chau resort,...

Tung Lam

Cave systems in Phong Nha – Ke Bang

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 01:05:41 PDT

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is called the kingdom of grottoes. Since 1920, this area has been known as a famous cave system. Then the Phong Nha cave was organized for visiting by French since 1937. Nowadays the cave system here has been discovered and measured in detail by the British Royal Cave Association, the Science University of Ha Noi National University. They found and recorded the outstanding values of the cave system in Phong Nha – Ke Bang.

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha - Ke Bang grottoes are the oldest age in South-East Asia that the establishment concern to tectonics faults in third period (35 million years) at the same time with separation and stretching takes shape Chinese sea. The cave system is developed above the largest limestone area in South-east Asia with very ancient age from the late Devon period (377 million years) to the Permian period (250 million years).

The Phong Nha - Ke Bang Caves consist of the Phong Nha Cave system, with 9 caves of various sizes and the Vom Cave system, with 8 caves of various sizes. The total length of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang Caves is 86,839m (from 2005). In these caves, there are many underground rivers. In some places they appear on the ground and all the inlets of underground rivers flow down to the Chay and Son Rivers. Finally, they combine with the Gianh River and run to the sea.

At the present Phong Nha and Tien Son cave always open to welcome to visitors to discover marvelous beauty and hidden values here.

Phong Nha Cave System

Vom cave system

Source: Phong Nha – Kẻ Bàng National Park

Photos: Tra Su Forest (An Giang)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 19:07:47 PDT

Tra Su Forest is located in Van Giao Commune, Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province, about over 20km from Chau Doc Town and 10km from the Cambodia border.Coming to Tra Su Forest, people will have a chance to enjoy precious moments living in harmony with nature as well as the wholesome atmosphere.

How to get there

To get to Tra Su Cajuput Forest, first go to Chau Doc Town and then turn left about 17km to Nha Bang Town in Tinh Bien District. From there it is only 4km to Cam Mountain, which is right next to the Tra Su Cajuput Forest.
The best time to visit Tra Su is at the high water season, from September to November.

Photos: Vung Tau

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:39:10 PDT

Vung Tau is a city in southern Vietnam, It is also known as one of the most beautiful cities of tourism in Vietnam.

These are some pictures that i took at Vung Tau.

Ong Tran House (Long Son Island)

Vung Tau City

Jesus statue

Light house

Nghinh Phong Beach

Ba Island

Dog Racing in Lam Son Stadium

Dog Racing

Plearn Wan (Hua Hin, Thailand)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:54:15 PST

Plearn Wan is the old-fashioned village in Hua Hin (Thailand). This village is environmentally-friendly and use recycled paper wrap and containers and it’s one of the main Hu Hin’s attractions.

Visit Plearn Wan, you can discovery the culture of Hua Hin (life style, tranditional house architecture,..). Beside that, you can try Thai tranditional foods, play tranditional games, and .. buy souvenirs. At weekends there is an open air cinema. On a busy weekend Plear Wan village is visited several thousands of people.

The entrance to Plear Wan village is free of charge. The PlearWan village is located between soi Hua Hin 38 and 40 opposite Klai Kangwon Palace of King Rama VII.

Plearn Wan

Visit Plearn Wan’s site: http://www.plearnwan.com

Vietnam travel books

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 19:04:18 PST

I think you need have a Vietnam travel guide book when you travel around in Vietnam. Where to visit? Where to sleep? Where to eat? Where to buy? A travel guide book is all you need. Right?

There are some Vietnam travel guide books:

The Rough Guide to Vietnam
The Rough Guide to Vietnam is the essential guide with clear maps and detailed coverage of one of Southeast Asia's most enticing destinations.
Reviews:
Comprehenseive handbook for the adventurous traveller. . dining out and accommodation on all budgets. - The Star
Combines scrupulous research and a whipcrack ability to get tothe point – if you buy only one guide to vietnam this should be it. - Sydney Morning Herald
Price: 14.95 usd

Let's go Vietnam
Vietnam is tough. But you didn’t pick up this book for “easy.” You chose Vietnam because you want travel to thrill and amaze you—because you want stories that will last you the rest of your life. You chose it for the dizzying diversity of landscapes, tastes, and ethnicities that make traveling to Vietnam, dare we say, the greatest adventure on the planet. So go.
Reviews: "For independent travelers on a budget, with an emphasis on whatever's hip, fun, or free."-- Associated Press
Price: 15,59

Vietnam Travel Pack (Globetrotter Travel Packs)
The handy pocket-size guide is packed with useful information, tips and recommendations, accompanied by colour photographs, charts and maps for the first-time traveller who wants to experience the major highlights that Vietnam has to offer. This travel book surpasses other guides in that it incorporates essential information in an easy-to-carry and easy-to-read format that is attractive and useful at the same time. It provides a visitor with an invaluable introduction to Vietnam by concisely highlighting the country's 'must see' areas in a practical and user-friendly format, thus encouraging the tourist to make the most of his/her available time. All the essential information you need to get around an unfamiliar country is compacted into useful and practical 'At-a-Glance' sections at the end of each chapter.
Price: 11.66 usd

Lonely Planet Vietnam
Whether you travel with a backpack or a matched set of designer luggage, Lonely Planet's Vietnam Travel Survival Kit has the historical, cultural, and practical information necessary to explore and enjoy Vietnam.
Reviews:
"As someone who has traveled to Vietnam to get our new son, we found the Lonely Planet Guide our "bible". The other 4 families and I would whip our our Guide whenever we were planning any trips/tours/dinner. Excellent advice and information!!" (Kim Breuer. Earlier edition)
Price: 16.49

Backstreet Boys to Perform in Saigon and Hanoi

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 05:48:22 PST

The Backstreet Boys (BSB) is scheduled to perform in Vietnam for the first time this March, following their tour to Latin America.

The four members of the group, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell and A. J. McLean, will perform at Ho Chi Minh City’s Military Zone Stadium (Quan Khu 7) on March 24 and at Hanoi’s My Dinh Stadium on March 26.

They will sing their hits: I Want It That Way, I’ll Never Break Your Heart, Straight Through My Heart and others from their This Is Us album.

The performance is part of the tour This Is Us that began in fall 2009 and will continue to the end of this year. They have had 20 shows thus far.

Book your seats?

1. Buy your tickets at ticket offices:

Ha Noi

The tickets will be available in Hanoi at:

MegaStar VinCom City Towers, Floor 6 VinCom City Towers, 191 Ba Trieu, Hai Ba Trung Street;
11B Tran Quoc Toan Street;
20 Phan Dinh Phung;
VIT Building, 519 Kim Ma Street;
My Dinh National Stadium, Tu Liem District

Ho Chi Minh City

75 Pasteur, District 1;
Galaxy Nguyen Du Cineplex, 116 Nguyen Du, District 1;
Galaxy Tan Binh, 246 Nguyen Hong Dao Street, Tan Binh District;
MegaStar Hung Vuong, 126 Hung Vuong Street, District 5.

In addition, tickets will be available at MegaStar Cineplexes in Hai Phong and Bien Hoa.

You should bring your ID card or passport to pay and get tickets.

2. Booking online on www.bsb.com.vn

3. Book your tickets by phone

Ha Noi: 1900 6604
Ho Chi Minh City: 1900 6608

Tickets range from VND500,000 to VND2 million each.

Backstreet Boys will have two meet-and-greet sessions with fans. The “Fan Meet and greet” will take place on March 23 and the “VIP Party” will be March 25.

List of airlines in Vietnam

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Sun, 20 Feb 2011 04:18:25 PST

Vietnam Airlines

Introduction: Vietnam Airlines is the largest aviation company in Vietnam. Established in 1956 with one 5 airplanes, Vietnam Airlines has overcome many challenges and constantly transformed over the years to become a world class aviation company.
Website: http://www.vietnamairlines.com

Vietnam Airlines Logo

Domestic destinations

* North

Dien Bien Phu Airport
Hanoi — Noi Bai International Airport Hub
Hai Phong — Cat Bi International Airport
Vinh Airport

* Central

Chu Lai International Airport
Da Nang International Airport
Dong Hoi Airport
Huế — Phu Bai International Airport
Nha Trang — Cam Ranh International Airport
Pleiku Airport
Qui Nhơn — Phu Cat Airport
Tuy Hoa — Dong Tac Airport

* South

Buon Ma Thuot Airport
Can Thơ International Airport
Da Lat — Lien Khuong International Airport
Ho Chi Minh City — Tan Son Nhat International Airport Main Hub
Phu Quoc Airport
Rach Gia Airport

Jetstar Pacific Airlines

Website: http://www.jetstar.com/vn

Introduction: Jetstar Pacific is the second largest aviation company in Vietnam and is also the only budget airline in Vietnam, which is formerly known as Pacific Airlines.

Jetstar Airlines

Domestic destinations

Da Nang – Da Nang International Airport
Hanoi – Noi Bai International Airport Focus cities
Hai Phong – Cat Bi International Airport
Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat International Airport Hubs
Hue – Phu Bai International Airport
Nha Trang – Cam Ranh International Airport [seasonal - resumes 1 June]
Vinh – Vinh Airport

Air Mekong

Website: http://www.airmekong.com.vn

Introduction: Mekong Aviation Joint Stock Company (doing business as Air Mekong), is an airline from Vietnam which operates scheduled passenger flights from its base at Phu Quoc Airport and secondary hubs at Noi Bai International Airport and Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Air Mekong Logo

Domestic destinations

Buon Ma Thuot – Buon Ma Thuot Airport
Con Dao – Con Dao Airport
Da Lat – Lien Khuong International Airport
Ha Noi – Noi Bai International Airport Hub
Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat International Airport Hub
Phu Quoc – Phu Quoc Airport
Pleiku – Pleiku Airport

Indochina Airlines

Website: http://www.indochinaairlines.vn/

Introduction: Indochina Airlines was the first operational private airline based in Vietnam, originally licensed in May 2008 as Air Speed Up. After a series of difficulties including unresolved debts and a drop in customers, Indochina Airlines ceased flying on November 25, 2009

Indochina Airlines Logo

Domestic destinations:

Indochina Airlines ended service to all destinations in November 2009. While active, it did serve the following destinations:

o Da Nang – Da Nang International Airport

o Hanoi – Noi Bai International Airport

o Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat International Airport Base

Others:

VietJet Air

Website: http://www.vietjetair.com

Introduction: VietJet Aviation Joint Stock Company (trading as VietJet Air) is a planned airline in Vietnam. It received approval to proceed with its plans from the Vietnamese Minister of Finance in November 2007. On February 2010, AirAsia announced that it has purchased a 30% stake in the airline.

Vietjet Air is the first to be 100% privately-owned. It first take-off flight to a destination is scheduled for August 2010, but changes might be made.

Vietjet Air

Photos: Saigon before Tet holiday

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:03:31 PST

The Tet Holiday in Vietnam will be started on Feb 3rd to 13th, 2011. This time in Vietnam, Tet is in the air,...These are some pictures that i took at Saigon before Tet holiday.

Chuc mung nam moi (Happy new year)

People Committee Hall Saigon

Thuong xa Tax

Video: Saigon at night

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 20:49:48 PST

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) is so beautifully at night. If you have a plan to travel to Saigon, watch this video before you fly to Saigon.

Places to go in Saigon At Night:

Enjoy The Dinner Cruise along Saigon River
Shopping at Ben Thanh Night Market
Nightclubs and bars: Go2 Bar (Pham Ngu Lao Area), Apocalypse Now (Thi Sach Street), Fuse Bar (Ton Duc Thang St),...
...

Happy Vietnamese New Year 2011

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:09:24 PST

Hi readers,

Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Vietnamese: Tết) is the most important festival of Vietnamese people. And It is coming... (February 3rd 2011 is the first day of New Year 2011).

On this occation, I wish you and your family the best of luck, health, happy and success everyday in new year!

Chúc mừng năm mới! (Happy new year).

Etraveltips.net - Happy Vietnamese New Year

In Vietnam, 2011 is year of Cat (different with China - year of rabbit).

Where to travel in Vietnamese New Year?

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:07:50 PST

Vietnamese new year (Vietnamese: Tết) is the most important and popular holiday and festival in Vietnam. In this time, from the north to the south of Vietnam, there are a lot of cultural activities, tranditional festivals,... If you travel to Viet Nam in this time, i think you feel so exciting, amazing. A chance to discover Vietnamese Culture, why not?

Five fruits tray in Tet Holiday

Where to travel in Vietnamese New Year?

This is Top 4

Mekong Delta
Hoi An - Da Nang - Hue
Ha Noi
The north-west of Vietnam

Four places are so exciting for you. They are different in culture.

How about Saigon?

Saigon in Tet Holiday is so quite, not crowded,... but not exciting.

If you travel to Saigon in Tet holiday, you can visit Nguyen Hue flower street (near Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Head office).

How about Mui Ne, Nha Trang, Da Lat?

All of them are so crowded with a lot of tourist (Vietnamese, Vietnamese-born American, ...)

How about the weather?

. Mekong delta

the weather in Tet holiday will good for travelling. It will be warm.

. Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An

The weather will cold, dry. Sometime it will be rain.

. The north of Vietnam

In the Vietnamese New Year, the weather will very cold. In north-weast of Vietnam, you can see snow, ice...

Getting around in Phnompenh

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:21:32 PST

Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-Tuk is the most popular transport in Cambodia. These refer to a motorcycle vehicle with a cabin for passengers also known as motorcycle trailers.

They are also a more economical option than taxis and with a somewhat more intimate and charming view of the city.

The tuk-tuk drivers in Phnompenh (in most of the tourist areas) are able to speak English, Vietnamese.

Remember : always agree on a price before you set off.

To get around Phnompenh by Tuk-tuk you can contact with any tuk-tuk driver (choose a nice tuk-tuk), the tuk-tuk cost for one day is 15usd.

Tuk-tuk cost from airport to downtown is about 6usd.

Tuk-tuk is the most popular transport in Cambodia

Motorcycle taxi (Vietnamese: Xe om)

It like a "xe om" in Vietnam. You can take a Motorcycle taxi at every corner in Phnompenh. They cost about US$6-$8 per day and tend to be higher at night, with multiple passengers.

Remember : always agree on a price before you set off.

Bus

At present, there is no regular in-city bus system in Phnom Penh.

Taxi

Taxis are available at selected locations such as the area outside the Foreign Correspondents' Club on Sisowath Quay. Most of them are not meter taxi.

Such taxi-car arrangements with a driver may cost between US$30-$35 per day, while a shorter trip within town costs US$4-$5.

Taxi cost from airport to downtown is about 8 - 10usd

Cyclo

A more traditional and relaxing form of transport is the cyclos, a three-wheeled cycle-rickshaw. Although significantly slower then a motodop, the cyclos is well-liked by tourists as they are less chaotic than motodops.

Walking

This is the cheapest way to get around Phnompenh. Is it safe? Yes.

See the post: Walking tour of Phnompenh (Cambodia)

Motor rental

The traffic in Phnom Penh is challenging and hazardous so be careful if you ride a motorcycle...

Motorcycles are available for rent from US$5-$9 per day.

Son Doong - the world's largest cave (Vietnam)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:15:02 PST

Photo by Carsten Peter

Phnompenh (Cambodia) travel guide (from Saigon, Vietnam)

noreply@blogger.com (N.T.L) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 04:01:50 PST

Distance: 230km

Information:

Visa

You should get a visa before acess to Cambodia. Contact with Cambodia embassies and Consulates.

In Vietnam:

Cambodia Embassy in Ha Noi: 71A Tran Hung Dao St, Ha Noi, Vietnam - Tel: (+84)04.39427636

Cambodia Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): 41 Phung Khac Khoan, Dist 1, HCMC - Tel: (=84)08.38292751

Or you can obtain the Cambodian Visa at Bavet border gate (on the way to Phnompenh from Saigon by bus).

The service fee is about 24usd.

Moc Bai Border Gate

Cambodia currency - Exchange money

Cambodia currency: Riel (1 usd = over 4000 Riel)

You can exchange money at Moc Bai Border Gate (Vietnam border gate) or Bavet border gate (Cambodia border gate). But if you don't spend for anything on the way from Saigon to Phnompenh (Cambodia), you can exchange at some money exchange service in Phnompenh.

Note: Spend US Dollar in Cambodia, it's OK.

Get in from Ho Chi Minh City

By bus

1. There are some daily bus from Saigon to Phnompenh, Most of them departure at Pham Ngu Lao Area in Saigon. And stop at Olimpic Stadium Bus Station in Phnompenh.

Mailinh bus

Ticket Price: 10usd/seat (one way)

Office: 32 Nguyen Cu Trinh, Dist 1, HCMC.

Tel: 08. 39 20 29 29

Fax: 08. 38 370 999

Ticket Offices in Ho Chi Minh City:

* 15 Dao Duy Anh, No.9 Ward, Dist Phu Nhuan, HCMC - Tel: 08. 38 477 888

* 31A/1 Hung Vuong, Dist 5. - Tel: 08. 38 304 982

* 64 Hai Bà Trưng, Bến Nghé, Dist - Tel: 08. 38 29 79 79

* 209 De Tham, Dist 1 - Tel: 08. 38 360 888

* 400A Lê Hồng Phong, Dist 10 - Tel: 08. 39 29 29 29

* Saigon Railway Station, 01 Nguyễn Thông, Dist 3 - Tel: 08. 35 260 888

- Ticket Office in PhnomPenh:

391 Sihanouk Blvd (No 274) PhnomPenh City.

Tel:(855) 23 211 888

Fax : (855) 23 229 999

Kumho Bus

Ticket Price: 12usd/seat (one way)

- Office in Saigon: 305 Pham Ngu Lao, Dist 1, HCMC

- Office in Phnompenh:

345 Sihanouk (247st) Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Sapaco Bus

Ticket Prica: 11usd (or 200.000 VND)/seat (one way)

- Ticket Offices in Ho Chi Minh City

* 500 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Dist 3 - Tel: 08.38322 038

* 325 Phạm Ngũ Lão, Dist 1 - Tel: 08.39203 623

* 592 Cộng Hòa, Tân Bình Dist - Tel: 08.38101 466

* 309 Phạm Ngũ Lão, Dist 1 - Tel: 08.39206 878

* 16 Đặng Thái Thân, Dist 5 - Tel: 08.38537 800

- Ticket Offices in Campuchia

+ 188 130 Phsar thmey III - Daunpenh Pnom Penh

* 309 Preah Sihanouk Blvd, Sangkat Veal Vong, Khan 7 Makara, Pnom Penh - Tel: 023 210 300 - 023 210 324

+ 213 Đường 13, Phường Chey Chum Neas, Dist Đaun Penh, PhnomPenh – Tel: 012.344089

+ 0667 National Road No.6, Siem Reap, Cabodia

. Night bus from Saigon to Phnompenh:
There is only one night bus from Saigon to Phnompenh, it's Vica Thai Bus.
Vica Thai Bus alway departure at 23h45'. The ticket price is about 10 usd (to Phnompenh), 17 usd (To Siemriep), 19 usd (To Sihanouk).
Note: You have to sleep on bus at Moc Bai border gate for waiting it open.
Contact to 0169.4999.905 (Bus Operator, he is a Cambodian) or travel agencies at Pham Ngu Lao Area to book a ticket.

2. From Benh Thanh Bus Station, You take a bus No.703 to Moc Bai Border Gate.

You exit from Vietnam at Moc Bai border gate (Vietnam), and entry at Bavet border gate (Cambodia).

Go to Bavet Bus Station, and taxi a taxi to Phnompenh (4 seats for 6 people).

Ticket Price: 7.5 usd/seat

Taxi will stop at everywhere in Phnompenh that you want (include in ticket price).

Bavet Bus Station

By Plane

Book a flight ticket to Phnompenh at http://www.vietnamairlines.com.vn or some travel agency.

From Phnompenh international Airport to Phnompenh downtown tou can take a taxi (8-10 usd), tuk tuk (6usd), motor-taxi (5usd).

By boat

From Saigon, you take a boat to Chau Doc (An Giang Province, Mekong Delta) and from here you take a boat to Phnompenh.

It take 5 hours from Chau Doc to Phnompenh.