Go Travel in Vietnam

Staying afloat in a picturesque lagoon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 28 Feb 2014 00:12:00 -0800

Hai Hung, host of the sole homestay service on Thi Tuong lagoon, the biggest of its kind in Mekong Delta poses with a bag of ghem - a kind of small crab / PHOTO: PHU SA LOC

Thi Tuong Lagoon stretches along for about 10 kilometers. Its widest part is some three kilometers, and its water surface covers an area of some 700 hectares.

The lagoon hosts some 20 big and small floating bamboo houses where local fishermen stay while waiting to collect their catch.

Nguyen Van Hung, or better known as Hai Hung, owns most of the houses there, earning him the moniker, “King of the lagoon.”

He is also the only fisherman to operate a homestay service at his biggest house, or “the water villa” as the locals call it.

We visited Hung’s house on the recommendation of famous writer Nguyen Ngoc Tu, who led a dozen tourist groups, including foreigners, there last year. Most of the people that Tu, Hung’s friend, has taken to his floating house are writers. Some of the writers with foreign friends asked her to guide the latter as well.

Hung’s children picked us up on motorized boats at the Xeo Duoc relic site, which is over 30 kilometers from Ca Mau Town.

They took us directly to the popular house, which is ten meters wide and 20 meters long. The house can accommodate as many as 100 people. Next to it was an old boat where vegetables are planted, while inside there were several cages holding fowls.

After a short break, the 51-year-old host, who started working at Thi Tuong some 30 years ago, took us around the lagoon.

Since it was late in the afternoon, the sun was moving down to the sea on the west, leaving sunrays reflected on the slightly moving water surface. We all agreed that the scene was a hint that the lagoon deserves the praise it gets for its beauty.

Occasionally, on the way, fishermen collecting the yield from their nets would raise their head above the water to greet Hung and his guests.

Hung said the water level reaches an adult’s chest during summer, and its highest level is around 1.6 meters during the rainy season.

Despite the shallow water, the lagoon is a rich source of fish, prawn and crab throughout the year, helping local fishermen, including our host, make their living.

For instance, September is the season of ghem which is a small crab known for its quality meat and roe, Hung told us, adding that during the season, fishermen can harvest at least 500-700 kilograms per day.

It took us almost two hours to finish the tour around the lagoon, taking in a beautiful sunset and other scenes before returning to Hung’s house, where an array of dishes made with local produce by his wife, Duong Thi Lua, was awaiting.

We ate and drank, sitting on the wooden floor, and Hung entertained us with stories about the lagoon.

He said legend has it that the lagoon was named after a woman who was the first one to exploit it. Its other name is Ba Tuong (Lady Tuong). Locals also call it Dua Nuoc (Nipa fruitcans) because it is surrounded by these palms.

Situated between Phu Tan and Tran Van Thoi districts, the lagoon consists of three smaller lagoons: Trong (inside), Giua (middle), and Ngoai (outside). The largest is Giua which is often compared to a fully inflated balloon.

As Hung’s stories continued, a chilly breeze blew in from outside the house, but several glasses of rice wine mixed with honey kept us warm.

Hung said he once treated a group of Korean tourists to the homemade liquor, and the foreigners loved it so much that they drank a lot. The next morning, one of them, nursing a hangover, missed his step when getting on a boat, and fell into the water. He was covered in mud, but kept laughing.

According to Hung, positive reviews online have helped increase the popularity of his service.

We finished the dinner soon, but stayed up until it was nearly midnight, drinking and admiring the lagoon’s night scene: the moon and stars lit up the vast dark sky, and moonlight was reflected by the calm waters.

When we woke up the next morning, we were offered bowls of hot rice porridge with small shrimps cooked by Lua, and glasses of lightly fragrant tea.

It was still early, so we were able to catch the soft light before sunrise, and see how crystal clear the water was. But soon, clouds appeared in the sky, coloring the water with a slightly pink shade.

Finally, the sun came out, breaking the morning dew, and streaks of red seemed to move along with waves across the lagoon before disappearing.

The homestay cost us just VND200,000 each, but besides accommodation, meals, and the lagoon tour, Hung also gifted us bags of ghem.

Meanwhile, Lua kept blaming us for not being able to prepare mam (fish paste) – a native specialty – as gifts for us, saying that we should have informed them of our visit in advance.

“It is such a strange place,” Tu had told us. “People treat their guests whole-heartedly, and are ready give guests gifts even before starting any conversation.”

NORTHWEST VIETNAM 10 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:08:00 -0700

Overview

The northwestern part of Vietnam is one of the most interesting and beautiful areas of South East Asia. Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups and in the northwestern part of the country you’ll see the lives and customs of some of the ethnic minorities. In this part of the country the minorities still dress in their traditional colorful clothing – especially the women. The Northwest Jeep tour includes a minority trek, overnight stay with some of the tribes and a jeep tour through some of the country’s most spectacular nature.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Lao Cai
You will be picked up at 20:00 from your hotel and transferred to the train station. Here, you take a night train to Lao Cai. The night train leaves at 21:10. Overnight stay on train in a 4-berth soft sleeper cabin.

Day 2: Lao Cai – Sapa
The train arrives at Lao Cai train station early in the morning, at around 06:00. Pick-up and transport by shared bus to Sapa (35km – about 1 hour drive). In the morning, there will be some spare time to enjoy the fantastic view of the Sapa valley and explore the local market. In the afternoon the guide will provide with more information about the tour. After this we’ll visit the Cat Cat village, where the Black H’mong people live. Overnight stay at o hotel in Sapa.

Day 3: Sapa – Lao Chai – Ta Van(B, L, D)
After breakfast, leaving the hotel and trekking to Lao Chai village to visit the Black H’mong people. From Lao Chai you’ll continue to Ta Van village to visit the Zay people. Dining and sleeping in a local homestay in the Ta Van village.
Trekking distance: 15km

Day 4: Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai – Ban Ho(B, L, D)
Walking tour to Giang Ta Chai village to visit Red Dao people. The women of Red Dao have a very colorful red embroideries, coins on their clothing, and on their head they wear a red scarf. Some of the women have shaved off their eyebrows because a hairless face is considered, by the the Red Dao people, to be very beautiful. We then make our way to the waterfall in Giang Ta Chai. In the afternoon we’ll make our way to Ban Ho, to visit the Tay people. If we arrive early there will be some spare time to go for a swim in the nearby river.
Trekking distance: 15km

Day 5: Ban Ho – Sapa (B)
After breakfast, trekking up to Su Pan hill (3km). Pick-up and transport back to Sapa. In the afternoon, there will be some spare time to experience the colorful Sapa market. Overnight stay at a hotel in Sapa.

Day 6: Sapa – Lai Chau (178km) (B)
In the morning driving in a car to Lai Chau. On the first part of the trip we will pass the beautiful Silver Waterfall Thac Bac and Tram Ton Pass (1900m). Later there will be a chance to visit Lao, Lu, Thai, Mang and Black Dao villages. Arrival in the afternoon to Lai Chau – one of the hottest places in Vietnam during the summer months. Overnight stay at a hotel in Lai Chau.

Day 7: Lai Chau – Dien Bien Phu (130km) (B)
Starting the day by driving to Dien Bien Phu. While driving, one can enjoy the spectacular view of the forested hills. Making several stops on the way to visit some of the minority villages (Kho Mu, Thai and H’mong). Arrival in the noon at Dien Bien Phu in the flat Muong Thanh Valley. Dien Bien Phu was the place, where the last battle between the forces of Ho Chi Minh’s Viet Minh army and the French(1954). In the afternoon visiting the Museum in Dien Bien Phu, which gives a better understanding of the Vietnamese history. Overnight stay at a hotel in Dien Bien Phu.

Day 8: Dien Bien Phu – Son La (180km)(B)
Leaving Dien Bien Phu and driving to Son La. The drive is beautiful, with high mountains, limestone rocks, gorges, rice fields and small villages. Before arriving in Son La the bus makes a stop in a small village, where there will be a chance to visit the Thai people. Overnight stay in Son La.

Day 9: Son La – Mai Chau (180km) (B)
Leaving the hotel at 08:00 in the morning for a short trek and visiting another Thai village. Arrival late in the afternoon at Lat village in Mai chau, where we’ll spend the night at local homestay.

Day 10: Mai Chau – Hanoi (165 km) (B)
Leaving Mai Chau at 08:00 in the morning and heading for Hanoi. On the way to Hanoi we’ll visit the Hoa Binh Hydro-Electric Power. Later in the afternoon we’ll arrive in Hanoi, where the tour ends.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

Trip notes

What to bring:

Trekking shoes or boots.

Rain-wear.

Warm fleece jacket in the winter.

Cap or hat, sunglasses and sun lotion.

Medicine for personal use.

Earplugs

Price

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	1,200	688	575	529	344	0

Note: Price in USD per person

Inclusive of:

Van/mini bus transfers

Train tickets Hanoi - Lao Cai - Hanoi (first class)

Accommodations (1 night on train in deluxe 4 berth cabin, 3 nights in homestay in Ta Van, Ban Ho, Mai Chau with mattress, sheets, blankets and mosquito net included, 5 nights in budget hotels in Sapa, Lai Chau, Dien Bien Phu and Son La)

Meals (8 x breakfast, 2 x lunch, 2 x dinner)

Admission fee for villages

English speaking tour guide.

Exclusive of: Insurance, drinks, personal expenses and tips

NORTHEAST VIETNAM 4 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:01:00 -0700

Duration: 4 Days

Overview

The northeastern part of Vietnam is one of the least visited, but most beautiful and interesting areas in Vietnam. On this tour you will visit the Ba Be National Park with a boat trip, see spectacular waterfalls, impressive grottoes and the border town of Lang Son.

Day 1: Hanoi – Ba Be National Park.
Day 2: Ba Be Lake – Cao Bang.
Day 3: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc waterfall – Cao Bang.
Day 4: Cao Bang – Lang Son – Hanoi.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Ba Be National Park (250 km - 10 hours). (L, D)
You will be picked up at 08:00 by a private van/mini bus and we depart for Ba Be National Park. On the way there stopping in Thai Nguyen city to visit the Museum of the Culture - the second largest museum in Vietnam for ethnic minorities. We continue our drive to Ba Be National Park. Spending the night with a local family, in a Tay village overlooking Ba Be Lake.

Day 2: Ba Be Lake - Cao Bang (115 km - 4 hours). (B, L, D)
In the morning off to a boat trip on Ba Be Lake. It is a beautiful area surrounded by high limestone hills and tropical forest. You will stop at Dau Dang Waterfall and the impressive Puong Cave which is 30m high and 300m long. The river flows through the cave, so the boat will take you through to the other side. Return to the homestay, from where you will drive to Cao Bang. Arrival in Cao Bang in the evening and stay in a hotel.

Day 3: Cao Bang - Ban Gioc waterfall - Cao Bang (180 km - 8 hours). (B, L, D)
At around 09:00am driving to the largest waterfall in Vietnam, Ban Gioc. Having lunch en-route. Later in the afternoon heading back to the hotel in Cao Bang.

Day 4: Cao Bang - Lang Son - Hanoi (330 km - 10 hours). (B, L)
At around 08:00am we drive to the border town Lang Son, where lunch will be served. In the afternoon, we will visit the beautiful caves in the town and the local market before driving to Hanoi. We will be back to Hanoi around 17:00.

(B: breakfast; L: lunch; D: dinner)

Trip notes

- The program is subject to change according to the weather conditions.
- Tipping is not compulsory but it is highly recommended if you are satisfied with the services.

What to bring

Rain-wear

Warm sweater in winter time

Mosquito repellent

Cap or hat and sun lotion

Camera and battery

Torch and ear plugs

Medicine for personal use

Price

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	700	360	304	279	180	30

Note: Price in USD per person

Inclusive of:

Private van/mini bus for transfers

Boat trip on Ba Be Lake

Accommodation (1 night in homestay; 2 nights in hotels)

Meals according to the program

All entrances fees and permit fees

English speaking tour guide.

Exclusive of: Insurance, drinks, personal expenses and tips.

CENTRAL HIGHTLIGHTS 5 DAYS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 19:17:00 -0700

Duration: 5 Days

Overview

For those wanting to delve deeper into Vietnam both geographically and culturally the central region offers a more rounded picture of the countrys roots. It is here that you'll discover all three of Vietnams UNESCO cultural sites. The major sites of interest are loosely gathered around the three main towns in the region, Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang. This tour consists of interesting tourist attractions in the central of Vietnam: Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An.

Itinerary

Day 1: Hue arrival (L)

You will be picked up from Hue train station or from Phu Bai airport and transferred to your hotel in the center of Hue city. In the afternoon, boat trip on the Perfume River and visit to Thien Mu pagoda. On return, you can relax and admire the beautiful landscapes along the River.
Overnight stay in Hue at Festival Hotel (***) or similar.

Day 2: Hue - Da Nang (B, L, D)
In the morning, visit to the Tombs of Emperor Tu Duc & Emperor Khai Dinh and the Royal Citadel. After lunch, travel to Danang (110km ) via Hai Van Pass - one of the most scenic hillside roads in Vietnam. At the height of 500m above the sea level the Pass produces spectacular cloud formations and views of sprawling Da Nang to the south and picturesque Lang Co Beach to the north. Arrival in Da Nang late in the afternoon followed by lunch in one of the many local restaurants.
Overnight in Da Nang city at Pacific Hotel (***) or similar.

Day 3: Da Nang - Hoi An (B, L)

In the morning the trip continues to Hoian with a visit to Cham Museum, Marble Mountains, stone carving village of Non Nuoc and white sandy beach. After lunch at a local restaurant in Hoian, the rest of the day is at your own disposal. Overnight at Hoian at Lotus Hotel (***) or similar.

Day 4: Hoi An (B, L)
The day starts with a half day tour in Hoian. You'll have a chance to explore the ancient narrow streets of Hoian and visit historic temples, the old house of Tan Ky, the Japanese Covered bridge, Thu Bon and Phuc Kien assembly hall. Overnight at Hoian at Lotus Hotel (***) or similar.

Day 5: Hoian - My Son - Departure from Da Nang (B, L)

Trip to My Son (55km) on rural roads in order to explore the architectural treasure and sculptures of Cham from the 7th to the 13th century. Lunch will be served in Da Nang city. The trip ends at Da Nang airport.

(B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner)

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 02:24:00 -0700

Most travelers to Vietnam are attracted by the country’s wonderful natural beauty: From the green rice fields in the north to the fascinating bustle of the Mekong Delta in the south. Vietnam however is also a country with a long history and ancient traditions. It has many historic attractions and old temples. An overview of the most amazing tourist attractions in Vietnam.

10. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is Vietnam’s most popular seaside resort town located along the second most beautiful bays in the country. It features beautiful beaches with fine and clean sand and clear ocean water with mild temperatures. The city has about 300,000 inhabitants and is more lively and urban in character than other beach destinations like Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. It’s also the scuba diving center of Vietnam.

9. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an immense network of connecting underground tunnels located about 40 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). The tunnels were used by Viet Cong guerrillas as hiding spots during the Vietnam War, and were the base of operations for the Tết Offensive in 1968. The tunnels have become a popular tourist attraction, and visitors are invited to crawl around in the safer parts of the tunnel system.

8. Mekong River (Mekong Delta)

The Mekong Delta is the region in southern Vietnam where the Mekong River approaches and empties into the sea. It is a very rich and lush area, covered with rice fields, that produces about half of the total of Vietnam’s agricultural output. Subsequently, life in the Mekong Delta revolves much around the river, and all the villages are often accessible by river rather than by road.

7. Mui Ne

The formerly little-inhabited beach south of the fishing village of Mui Ne has seen some serious development in the last 15 years. Due to strong sea breezes it is a popular destination in Vietnam for kite- and windsurfing. No trip to Mui Ne is complete without a trip to the famous sand dunes located a short distance north of the town. The vast sandy expanse provide some great panoramic views especially during sunset.

6. Sa Pa Terraces

Sa Pa is a town in northwest Vietnam not far from the Chinese border. Rice terraces can be found in the Muong Hoa valley between Sa Pa town and the Fansipan Mountain, on a backdrop of thick bamboo woodlands. Local mountain people, the Hmong, Giay, Dao, Tay, and Giay, grow rice and corn on these paddy terraces, along with vegetables.

5. Phu Quoc

Located in front of the Cambodia coast, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam. Phu Quoc is what Phuket would be if it hadn’t been overrun by development. The island features pristine tropical forests, undamaged coral reefs and great beaches. One of its beaches, named Bai Dai (Long Beach), was chosen by the ABC News as one of five beautiful and clean beaches. Phu Quoc is famous for producing the best nuoc mam or fermented fish sauce in the world.

4. Hoi An

This fishing-village-turned-tourist-attraction is situated on the coast of the South China Sea. Hoi An has been an international port from the 16th century although the serious shipping business has long since moved to the city of Da Nang. The heart of the city is still the Old Town, full of winding lanes and Chinese-styled shops. It is sometimes called the “Venice of Vietnam” because of the narrow canals that cut through part of the town.

3. Hoan Kiem Lake (Hanoi)

Located in the historical center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the major scenic spots in the city and serves as the locals’ favorite leisure spot. Hoan Kiem means “returned sword”, and the name comes from a legend in which King Le Loi was given a magical sword by the gods, which he used to drive out the invading Chinese. Later he returned the sword to the Golden Turtle God in the lake.

2. Thien Mu Pagoda (Hue)

With seven stories, the Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue is the tallest pagoda in Vietnam. The pagoda overlooks the Perfume River and is regarded as the unofficial symbol of the former imperial capital. The temple was built in 1601 during the rule of the Nguyễn Lords. The initial temple was very simply constructed, but over time it was redeveloped and expanded with more intricate features.

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is situated in north Vietnam round a 120 kilometer long coast line and is literally translated as “Bay of Descending Dragons”. The top tourist attraction in Vietnam, Ha Long Bay features thousands of islands, each topped with thick jungle vegetation, forming a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars. Several of the islands are hollow, with enormous caves, others islands include lakes and some support floating villages of fishermen.

HUE CITY TOUR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:58:00 -0700

Duration: 1 Day

Overview

Welcome to the city of Hue, let us guide you through the bustling streets, natural landscape and unique architecture including the perfume river, tombs, pagodas and many temples, all of which have become major tourist attractions for visitors from all over the world. You will rediscover the ancient world of the emperors of 13 kings of Nguyen dynasty, from Gia Long to Bao Dai. Is the first UNESCO world heritage site in Explorer the village where women make the traditional hats and learn from our expert guides about the lives of these people .

Itinerary

AM: Pick up at your hotel in Hue from 08:00 - 08:30 and drive to visit the following tourist attractions of the city.
- Hat and incenses stick making village: learning the traditional job of people here and you can buy some for souvenirs…
- Tu Duc tomb: Tu Duc designed the exquisitely harmonious tomb, which was constructed between 1864 and 1867, for use both before and after his death.
- Minh Mang tomb: Said to be the most majestic of all of the Royal Tombs. Renowned for its architecture, which harmoniously blends into the nature surroundings.
- Khai Dinh tomb: unlike Hue’s other tombs, being a synthesis of Vietnamese and European elements. Even the stone faces of the mandarin honour guards are endowed with a mixture of Vietnamese and European features.

12:00: Back to the city to enjoy Vietnamese food (Eating lunch and end services of half day tourist at 13h00)

PM: After lunch, we continue our tour to visit Hue Citadel. Here, we will see the tallest flag pole of Vietnam (37m-hight), Ngo Mon gate where Bao Dai ended Nguyen dynasty, Thai Hoa palace ( Palace of Supreme Hamony), Hall of the Mandarins, Forbidden Purple city… After that we move to visit Thien Mu pagoda which was built on a hillock overlooking the Perfume river, this pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and the symbol of Hue city.

Cruise the beautiful perfume river by dragon boat viewing daily life along the way. Visit some villages and do not miss viewing sunset on the river
16:00. End services.

Trip notes

Please bring cap/hat with you!

Price:

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	20	20	20	20	10	0	Book now

Note: Price in USD per person

Included Services:

A/C bus

English speaking guide

Meal in the tour

Excluded Services: Entrance tickets, drinks, personal expenses and tips.

DMZ TOUR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:51:00 -0700

Duration: 1 Day

Overview

The Geneva Conference on July 21, 1954, recognized the 17th parallel as a "provisional military demarcation line" temporarily dividing the country into two states, Communist North Vietnam and "Free" South Vietnam. The tour of DMZ will bring you the historical study about the war between Vietnam and USA in the years from 1954 to 1975. Besides, you will explore the charming of the nature here with forest, mountain range and river…

Itinerary

AM: Pick up at your hotel 08:00 - 08:30, our bus will take you to Quang Tri province where you will visit the following tourist attractions:
1. Frame of a church: La Vang holly land
2. Dong Ha Town: was the location on a strategically important U.S. Marine Combat Base, out posted to provide surveillance of troops movements across the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
3. Doc Mieu base: One part of an elaborate electronic system (McNamara’s wall) intended to prevent infiltration across the DMZ.
4. Hien Luong bridge: known as the "Peace Bridge", a beam bridge built from steel by the French in 1950
5. Ben Hai river: an important landmark in the partition of the country into a northern and a southern zone along the 17th parallel by the Geneva Accords of 1954
6. Cua Tung beach: the river flows from west to east just south of the 17th parallel and close to the northern border of Quang Tri Province
7. Vinh Moc tunnels: The complex of tunnel, located deep in the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone, grew to include wells, kitchens, rooms for each family and spaces for healthcare.
* Have lunch in the restaurant, here, you will be free to choose for your lunch

PM: After lunch, we continue our tour with few more interesting points:
8. Ethnic minority village: learn the lives of minority people
9. Dakrong bridge: crossing the Dakrong river.
10. Ho Chi Minh trail: was a logistical system that ran from the North Vietnam to the South Vietnam through the neighboring kingdoms of Laos and Cambodia
11. Rock pile: a base for American long – range artillery nearby.
12. Khe Sanh combat base: is a valley surrounded entirely by rolling mountains and forest. Was one of the most controversial battles – of the American War.

Return to Hue in late afternoon. Tour finished.

Trip Notes

Please bring cap/hat with you!

Price

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	25	25	25	25	13	0	Book now

Note: Price in USD per person

Included Services:

A/C bus

English speaking guide

Entrance tickets

Excluded services: Meal in the tour, entrance fees, tips and personal expenses.

HOI AN CITY TOUR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:46:00 -0700

Overview

Take a step back in time on a walking city tour of Hoi An -a well-known ancient town in Vietnam and a UNESCO World heritage site. A private guide leads you through the well-kept historic district of this once-prosperous seaport city.

Itinerary

We spend the morning for a walking tour around this enchanting port town. Follow the narrow lanes lined with centuries-old houses influenced by Chinese, Japanese, French and European architectures and visit its numerous places of interest: the 400-year old Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Halls, the local fish market… Around the town we can see a numerous art galleries and tailor shops, get some made-to-order clothes if you like. After lunch in local restaurant, enjoy a short boat ride to a nearby village specializing in ceramics and crafts-including boat building.

Trip notes

Please bring cap/hat with you!

Price

Class	Size of group						Booking
Class	1 pax	2 pax	3 pax	4+ pax	Children	Single Room	Booking
Standard	70	39	36	33	20	0	Book now

Note: Price in USD per person

Included Services:

All admission fees

Lunch

Boat trip

English speaking tour guide

Excluded Services: Drinks, personal expenses and tips.

HOI AN ON BIKE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 01:30:00 -0700

Overview

Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was one of the orient's major trading ports in the 16th and 17th centuries. After the Thu Bon River linking Hoi An to the sea silted up ocean going ships were no longer able to sail into town and trade moved 30km up the coast to Tourane, known nowadays as Da Nang. Despite the passing of 200 years and the ravages of the weather and war, the center of Hoi An remains much the same as it was in its heyday. A cycling tour is the best way to see the town and the nearby areas in the countryside.

Hoi An is now enjoying something of a renaissance as tourists flock to the once peaceful town. The ancient streets and temples have withstood this modern onslaught remarkably well, and Hoi An remains a "must see" on any tour of Vietnam. The streets themselves - narrow and faced with formidable frontages of ancient "shop-houses" - together with the town's remarkable and eclectic architectural styles, evoke a feeling of times gone by, and it isn't difficult to imagine the town of three- or four hundred years ago, bustling with trade and enjoying its economic and cultural heyday.

Itinerary

Start from your hotel at about 8:00 Am & ride your bike to a Lantern Making Workshop to learn how to make lanterns. We will spend 02 hours with families to learn all the work stages: from sharpening bamboo, bending into frame, cutting cloth, sticking and completing lanterns under the guidance of enthusiastic craft-men. You will have a souvenir from the family : The lantern made by yourself.

Continues to ride to the Shrimp Farm to see the biggest Farm on the outskirt of Hoi An. After the Shrimp Farm, we go to Tra Que Vegetable Village - a charming little village specialized in producing “safe” vegetables to Hoi An markets. In this village, you will be taught by a local family how to grow vegetable. Lunch with the local family

After lunch, we will ride back to Ancient Quarter of Hoian, discover the historic town which used to be a prosperous seaport city during the 17th to 18th centuries. Visit Japanese Covered Bridge, Phung Hung Ancient House, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Hoi An Local Market, Hoi An Fish Market, and Traditional Handicraft Workshop. You can also see the Hoianese raise silkworms and produce silk for Hoi An's burgeoning textile industry.

Tour finishes at your hotel around 17:00.

NHA TRANG BOAT TRIP

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 01:16:00 -0700

Overview

Transferring to Da Chong Whalf, about 18 km away from the city center for embarking on boat, cruising on Nha Phu bay. We are getting on boat for Nha Trang bay cruise to visit some islands orderly Thi island, Orchid stream island & Lao island, where you can enjoy a number of outdoors activities there, ranging feeding wife animals such as Afrian Ostriches, deer, Monkeys… to watching animal performances of Goats, Monkeys, elephants, bears & dogs. Then you can participate in rowing, swimming, riding horses around the islands for photos taking and doing various kinds of water sport there.

Itinerary

We will pick you up from hotel at 8:30 Am, then transferring to Da Chong Whalf, about 18 km away from the city center for embarking on boat, cruising on Nha Phu bay.

We are getting on boat for Nha Trang bay cruise to visit some islands orderly Thi island, Orchid stream island & Lao island, where you can enjoy a number of outdoors activities there, ranging feeding wife animals such as Afrian Ostriches, deer, Monkeys… to watching animal performances of Goats, Monkeys, elephants, bears & dogs.

Then you can participate in rowing, swimming, riding horses around the islands for photos taking and doing various kinds of water sport there. After lunch boat will cruise back to mainland.

Then we return hotel in Nha Trang at about 16:30. End of the tour.

DA LAT CITY TOUR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 01:13:00 -0700

Overview

Da Lat is always beautiful and lovely. It is the holly land for the couple for honey moon. The weather here is ideal for all year around. The mountain and the trees make Da Lat the land of nature and the architecture here is still unchanged from the French time…From the Da Lat city, you can do a tour half day or full day to many places all around.

Dalat city

Itinerary

We pick you up from your hotel from 08:00 - 08:30 and then transferred to visit the following city's attractions:
1/ Tuyen Lam lake:
7 km South of Da Lat, 320 ha, the nicest lake of the city.
+ Truc Lam Zen monastery:
Over look Tuyen Lam Lake, at present is the biggest University in Vietnam. Please dress decently.

2/ Prenn waterfall:
10 km South of Dalat with a mini zoo.

3/ Valley of Love:
6 km to the North, typical scenery of Dalat, dotted with lake, pine hills and flowers, well – known for its Cow-boys, a good place for horse riding.

4/ Bao Dai’s SummerPalace:
3 km from Dalat’s center, where the last Emperor of Vietnam. Bao Dai stayed and ruled the country from 1914 to 1954

5/ Domain de Marie Church:
5 km from the center, a French built Convent with remarkable architectural style and garden.

6/ Lake of Sight: This natural lake situated on top of a hill covered with pine trees, 6km east of Dalat City. The sounds from the forest resemble the sighing of an invisible man. The lake has been surrounded by many stories and legends with sorrowful endings in which the heroine drowns in the lake to keep her true love forever. The lake has a vast and calm surface. Standing on the edge of the lake, a small path running towards the forest can be seen.

7/ Dalat Historical Village:
The place where the collection of the most valuable embroidery artworks is kept and exhibited. By the language of things, performance art, visitor shall hear the breath of life by the harmony of embroidery artworks.

End of the tour at about 17:00.

HO CHI MINH CITY TOUR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 01:09:00 -0700

Overview

Ho Chi Minh (fo

rmerly Saigon) is a fast paced city with a unique mix of French colonial architecture, Chinese influences, a modern entrepreneurial spirit and numerous temples. On this tour, you will take in the highlights of Ho Chi Minh starting with an exploration of Saigon's turbulent past with visits to the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum...

Itinerary

AM: Take a short city tour, Giac Lam Pagoda. This is Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest pagoda, dating back to 1744 and one of the finest in Vietnam. Inside 98 pillars and 113 statues. Cho Lon, including the Thien Hau Pagoda: Cho Lon actually means Big Market – a claim that is well justified as Vietnam’s largest market, the Binh Tay is situated here. then have lunch at Vietnamese restaurant.

PM: Visiting the War Remnants Museum, Formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war. Some of the black and white photography in the ‘Requiem’ exhibit is particularly touching, Reunification Palace (Ex-Presidential Palace) that was built in 1963 and is well-known as an outstanding example of 1960’s architecture, obtaining the mark of France in the hustling city through sites of Notre Dame Cathedral, Post office, and shopping at Ben Thanh Market. Tour ends at around 16:00.

CAO DAI TEMPLE - CU CHI TUNNELS

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 01:05:00 -0700

Overview

The tour to Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai is a great day trip from Ho Chi Minh. Visit Tay Ninh, home of the unique Cao Dai sect which is a mix of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity. After lunch, visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an amazing underground labyrinth from which the Vietnamese fought during the American/Vietnam war.

Itinerary

You might have wondered if Vietnam has a religion of its own. The answer is yes, and its name is Cao Dai. Caodaists believe that, before God existed, there was the Tao which was nameless, formless, and unchanging. Then, a Big Bang occurred, out of which God was born. The universe could not yet be formed and to do so, God created yin and yang….

Depart Ho Chi Minh City at 0800 in the morning for Tay Ninh where the scenery changes totally with views of rice paddies, villagers drying noodles by the side of the road… the daily activities of.

Arriving Tay Ninh at noon, visit Cao Dai Great Temple which is considered as “Mecca” of Caodaism with special architecture that could have come straight from Walt Disney fantasy and the major faiths of the world have blended together in a unique religious cocktail. Founded in 1925, the temple is home to the Cao Dai religion - the sect's belief is that all major religions of the world came from the one source and belong to one god. The colorful and unusual murals that cover the temple's interior will catch your attention with their brilliance.

After lunch in a local restaurant, visit the famous Cu Chi Tunnels in which an incredible underground tunnel network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters (Viet Cong) during both the French and American wars. In Ben Dinh
or Ben Duoc tunnel you can imagine what it was or to be a guerrilla with a Russian Carbine rifles and AK 47's in the Shooting Range. In the late afternoon, drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Hanoi Capital (expansion)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:54:00 -0700

Hanoi Capital (expansion)

Area: 3.324,92 sq. km
Population: 6,232,900 habitants (8/2008).
Administrative divisions: -10 urban districts: Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan, Cau Giay, Long Bien, Hoang Mai, Ha Dong.
- 1 cities: Son Tay
- 18 rural districts: Dong Anh, Soc Son, Thanh Tri, Tu Liem, Gia Lam (old Hanoi); Ba Vi, Chuong My, Dan Phuong, Hoai Duc, My Duc, Phu Xuyen, Phuc Tho, Quoc Oai, Thach That, Thanh Oai. Thuong Tin, Ung Hoa (former Ha Tay province) and Me Linh (a former district of Vinh Phuc province).

Ethnic groups: Viet (Kinh), Hoa, Muong, Tay, Dao...

Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the center of culture, politics, economy and trade of the whole country.

Geography
Hanoi is located in the Red River Delta, in the center of North Vietnam. It is encompassed by Thai Nguyen, Vinh Phuc provinces to the north, Hoa Binh and Ha Nam to the south, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh and Hung Yen provinces to the east, Hoa Binh and Phu Tho to the west.

Hanoi means "the hinterland between the rivers" (Ha: river, Noi: interior). Hanoi's territory is washed by the Red River (the portion of the Red River embracing Hanoi is approximately 40km long) and its tributaries, but there are some other rivers flowing through the capital, including Duong, Cau, Ca Lo, Day, Nhue, Tich, To Lich and Kim Nguu.

Climate: Hanoi is situated in a tropical monsoon zone with two main seasons. During the dry season, which lasts from October to April, it is cold and there is very little rainfall, except from January to March, when the weather is still cold but there is some light rain. The wet season, from May to September, is hot with heavy rains and storms.

History
Hanoi is a sacred land of Vietnam. In the 3rd century BC, Co Loa (actually belonging to Dong Anh District) was chosen as the capital of the Au Lac Nation of Thuc An Duong Vuong (the King Thuc). Hanoi later became the core of the resistance movements against the Northern invasions. Located in the middle of the Red River Delta, the town has gradually expanded to become a very populations and rich residential center. At different periods, Hanoi had been selected as the chief city of Vietnam under the Northern domination.In the autumn of Canh Tuat lunar years (1010), Ly Thai To, the founder of the Ly Dynasty, decided to transfer the capital from Hoa Lu to Dai La, and so he rebaptized it Thang Long (Soaring Dragon). The year 1010 then became an historical date for Hanoi and for the whole country in general. For about a thousand years, the capital was called Thang Long, then changing to Dong Do, Dong Kinh, and finally to Hanoi, in 1831. This sacred piece of land thereafter continued to be the theatre of many fateful events.

Tourism
Throughout the thousand years of its eventful history, marked by destruction, wars and natural calamities, Hanoi still preserves many ancient architectural works including the Old Quarter and over 600 pagodas and temples. Famous sites include the One Pillar Pagoda (built in 1049), the Temple of Literature (built in 1070), Hanoi Citadel, Hanoi Opera House, President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum...

Hanoi also characteristically contains 18 beautiful lakes such as Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and Truc Bach Lake..., which are the lungs of the city, with their surrounding gardens and trees providing a vital source of energy.

Many traditional handicrafts are also practiced in Hanoi including bronze molding, silver carving, lacquer, and embroidery. Hanoi has many famous traditional professional handicraft villages such as Bat Trang pottery village, Ngu Xa bronze casting village, Yen Thai glossy silk...

Transportation
By road: Hanoi is 93km from Ninh Binh, 102km from Haiphong, 153km from Thanh Hoa, 151km from Halong, 474km from Dien Bien Phu, 658km from Hue, 763km from Danang, and 1,710km from Ho Chi Minh City.

By air: Noi Bai International Airport, over 35km from the city center, is one of the biggest airports of the country with various international and domestic routes. There are domestic flights from Hanoi to Danang, Dien Bien, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Nha Trang and international flights to many countries in over the world.

By train: Hanoi Railway Station is Vietnam's main railway station. It is the starting point of five railway lines leading to almost every province in Vietnam./.

Exuberant orchards in Mekong Delta

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 20:38:00 -0700

This is the harvest time of orchards in the Mekong Delta. Visiting the region at this time, tourists will be enchanted by these luxuriant orchards. Let’s visit them with us!

Original wine cellar in Vietnam

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 01:29:00 -0700

Built in the early 20th century by the French, Debay wine cellar in Ba Na resort (Danang city) has a unique architectural style in Vietnam. Standing the test of time, the structure remains primeval and mysterious.

This special cellar was built in 1923 for French military officers and businesspeople,
as well as rich Vietnamese. It was named after Debay, a French officer, who built
the structure. On May 15, 2012 the cellar was restored for tourism purposes.

The arched structure simulates the French-style architecture. It is 100m long,
2.5m high and 2m wide. No bulbs are installed along the passageway of the cellar.

Temperatures inside the cellar are rather low, ranging between 16-20 degrees Celsius
during the daytime and dropping to below 10 degrees Celsius at night. Bottles of wine
can be placed along the passageway of the cellar.

Bottles are stored in locked compartments to prevent wine being exposed to heat,
light, temperature fluctuations, and humidity that can spoil wine aroma and flavour.

Not only grape wine, but rice wine distilled in Ba Na was also stored in the cellar
to serve French military officers and rich Vietnamese businesspeople at the time.

Big compartments were marked by the name of the wine maker. The wine was formerly
deposited in the cellar for use by upper classes in society.

The lighting system was only installed at the middle of the cellar, where parties or
other formal functions were held by the French.

A fire place was put up to warm up the cellar during the winter time

Coming here, visitors have the chance to taste wine of different kinds

Thousands of tourists visit Ba Na and the cellar every day.

Hue displays all its old structures to boost tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 01:21:00 -0700

Tourists to the ancient capital of Hue will have the chance to enjoy the real life of the old city rather than just viewing relics or landscape as they usually do.

Pillars of strength: Undamaged 120-year-old nha ruong (old-style house) owned by Ho Van Te in Phuoc Tich Village. Such houses will be used for community-based tourism to improve villagers' lives.

Community-based tourism was included in the city authorities' strategy to attract 3 million tourists by 2015, confirmed Ngo Hoa, deputy chairman of Thua Thien-Hue Provincial People's Committee.

With the support from the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), the city chose the model of traditional markets on Thanh Toan tile-roofed bridges in Thuy Thanh Commune to develop.

In fact, the Thanh Toan market day was revitalised during the Hue Festival and gained tourists' applause. However, only the tourists who went on tours were introduced to the spot. In addition, few local households got involved in providing the service so the number of beneficiaries remained limited.

JICA will help set up an office for the village's tourism management which will monitor the local tourism quality and enlarge the service scale so more local residents can take participate in tourism.

Travel agencies and information providers are encouraged to co-operate in bringing more tourists to the destination. Field trips will be organised to test out tour quality.

Elsewhere in Phong Dien District's Phong Hoa Commune, Phuoc Tich ancient village, which is home to 40 hundred-year-old nha ruong (houses built with many beams and pillars), has been selected to develop homestays.

JICA also sent Mizokami Yoshihiro, a Japanese ceramic expert to help the village maintain its traditional ceramics production by creating new products based on their traditional technique. More than 20 villagers, most of them old artisans, took part in the programme.

The community-based tourism does not only refresh tourism in the old city but help create more jobs and improve the incomes of local people.

Apart from JICA, the Netherlands Development Organisation SNV helped 70 local residents get jobs as tourism service providers and craft sellers for Huyen Tran cultural centre in An Tay Ward.

This was a good way to promote Hue cultural values and the easiest way for local people to market their traditional crafts, Hoa said.

Visitors to Hoi An will enjoy discounts of up to 30 percent next month

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 6 Jun 2012 00:07:00 -0700

Hoi An’s ancient architecture and craft products attracts many visitors Tourism businesses in ancient Hoi An in central Vietnam will offer discounts of up to 30 percent to domestic and foreign travelers next month, Hoi An City People’s Committee Deputy Chairman Truong Van Bay announced. During the first phase of the discount program from March 26 to the beginning of April, visitors will receive free meals when staying for more than two days at local hotels rated four stars and above. Discounts of up to 20 percent on food and beauty services will be offered to tourists staying at hotels of two to three stars. Holidaymakers will also enjoy discounts of between 10 to 30 percent at local attractions, shops and restaurants. UNESCO-listed Hoi An is a popular tourist destination in central Vietnam, known for its charming ancient architecture, craft products and nearby beaches. Hoi An welcomed about 450,000 visitors last year, 320,000 of whom were from outside the country, an increase of 6 percent on 2007. Source : TUOITRE/Son Phuoc

A sweet little mystery in the highlands

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 20:12:00 -0700

If you set off from Hanoi in the early morning, you can be in another world by the afternoon – Dong Van town sits over 1,000 metres above sea level in a green valley surrounded by rocky mountain ranges in the awe-inspiring province of Ha Giang, one of the most spectacular rural destinations in all of Southeast Asia – truly, a far cry from the bewildering heat and hectic streets of Hanoi at the height of summer.

The town is the capital of Dong Van district, one of four districts surrounding the Dong Van Geopark, a karst plateau featuring large tracts of limestone with many fossils of creatures that walked the earth 400 to 600 million years ago.

The plateau’s average elevation is 1,400-1,600m above sea level. The route up the mountains to the town is precipitous and slow-going, but the views of the imposing rocky mountain ranges make the trip a constant pleasure.

Near Dong Van town we came across a group of H’Mong people preparing for a local music contest that was to be held in the morning. Some of them were playing a khen (pan-pipe) and a ken la (leaf-horn) while others were harmonizing their sweet voices.

The town’s old quarter was lit up with red lanterns hanging from the window ledges of houses along every street and all around the market. As night fell, the town took on a wonderfully fanciful light in the midst of the mysterious rocky highland.

The locals always celebrate the full moon nights on the 14th, 15th and 16th of the lunar calendar to preserve and promote the town’s cultural heritage and customs. During these festivals, cultural and artistic activities take place in the old market. Visitors can taste the local cuisine, watch musical performances, or check out some of the traditional handicrafts, and much more.

In the evening, an ebullient crowd of H’Mong begins to gather. Soon there are more than 300 artisans and artists from all corners of Ha Giang province ready to perform. A small stage has been set up for the occasion and there is music and dancing; everyone is happy to be part of the show. We listen to the melodies as well as the sounds of the valleys, forests and mountains, and everyone smiles.

There are 40 houses in the centre of Dong Van’s old quarter, which are most beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the dark grey houses are suddenly brightened by golden sunlight.

The town was built in the early 20th century and, in the beginning, mainly Tay and Hoa people lived here. During the 1940s and 1950s, the Kinh, Dzao and Nung tribes also settled in the area. The two-storey houses are a combination of architectural styles and there is influence from the Zhongnan region of China. The houses are built with tick earthen walls, dark brown wooden frames and stairs and dark grey Chinese yin and yang tile roofs. Each house has a yard and three-step staircase made from bluish limestone pillars. The houses are designed according to the principles of feng shui, balancing the natural and structural energy that courses through the environment.

By nine in the evening, the old quarter is empty and quiet. The ceremony is over; the winners have been awarded their prizes and almost everyone has wandered off home. I stroll over to the old market which was built in 1920 as a central trading place for local tribes to exchange clothes and tools. At night, the market is closed for business, but open for romance. Some of the young women are beautifully dressed and the young men do their best to woo the ladies by playing their khen or ken la. Leaving the young ones, I step into Pho Co Café, which is located in one of the oldest houses in town; the owners claim it was built in 1890. By a flickering oil lamp I sit sipping my hot tea and gazing out at the street through the faded wooden window bars. I can hear the sound of a khen and a ken la playing in response.

The café stays open till midnight and I am perfectly consent to sit there, soaking up the sense of mystery exuded by Dong Van town. As I walk home through the shadows in the still night, I am already looking forward to the first rays of golden sunlight that will herald the dawning of the day.

More similar posts at Pham An Khanh's Blog

Tourism connected communities around the world

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 5 Sep 2011 11:21:00 -0700

World Tourism Day (WTD) 2011 under the theme "Tourism - Links cultures" will be held in Aswan (Egypt) on 27 September.

In his broadcast message, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said: "Tourism has made great contributions to the global solidarity, as an instrument of peace, connecting communities around the world. This is also the industry to create more job opportunities, help shorten the gap in wealth, contributing to the economic growth of nations, cultural links and understanding people. "

On this occasion, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is organizing a photo contest on the social networking site Twitter, which focuses on themes that link the culture of tourism. The prize is a trip around Egypt, was awarded the WTD 2011 in Egypt.

Fifth Ha Giang Sports and Cultural Festival opens

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 21:50:00 -0700

The fifth sports and cultural festival for ethnic minority groups opened in the northernmost mountainous province of Ha Giang on August 17.

The fifth sports and cultural festival for ethnic minority groups opened in the northernmost mountainous province of Ha Giang on August 17.

11 local sports teams and art troupes have registered to take part in different programmes, including shows of traditional costumes of ethnic groups, folk songs, and games.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Sen Chin Ly, deputy chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, who is also head of the organizing board said that the fifth Ha Giang sports and cultural festival is a major event aimed at highlighting the cultural traditions and ethnic solidarity movements in the province.

The event also provides an opportunity for them to enhance the spirit of mutual understanding and assistance.

The festival will close on August 20.

(Source: VOV)

Travelers flock to beaches to avoid summer heat

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:22:00 -0700

After a quiet June, the number of domestic travelers keeps increasing in July. Islands, tourism sites and beautiful beaches these days receive more travelers who want to relax on brine.

Choosing nearby beaches

In Long Bien district in Hanoi, many 30-40 seat coaches are present early in the morning of Saturdays and Sundays, which come to pick up travelers to beaches. Two weeks ago, local residents were eager to register trips to Cua Lo, Tuan Chau, Halong Bay and Sam Son beaches. A group of coevals left for Cua Lo last week. Meanwhile, NA, a company located in the district, organized a tour for its staff to Van Don-Quan Lan.

According to Nguyen Cong Hoan, Deputy Director of Hanoi Redtours, the number of travelers witnesses a boom in July. The number of registered tours to the central region and the south has increased by 50 percent. Especially, people now favor the tours to Nha Trang and Da Nang, thanks to many choices with airlines and high quality of services. Meanwhile, those travelers, who choose to travel to the north, regularly register the tours to Quang Binh, Hue and Lang Co.

Tran The Dung, Deputy Director of HCM City-based The He Tre travel firm, said that not many people traveled in June, because their children had to take high school final exams and prepare for the university entrance exams. Therefore, the trips have been delayed until July.

Dung has reported a 20 percent increase in the number of travelers in July in comparison with the same period of the last year. Meanwhile, Vietravel hopes that it will serve 125,000 travelers in 2011’s summer, an increase of 25 percent over the same period of the last year.

The tours to beaches remain the most favorite tours for travelers. However, they tend to go to nearby beaches this summer instead of going farer in order to save money. Travelers in HCM City take short distance tours to Vung Tau, Phan Thiet or Ninh Chu.

The national flag air carrier Vietnam Airlines has reported that the domestic aviation market in the first six months of the year, witnessed a 20 percent growth rate in comparison with the same period of the last year. Airlines have all provided more flights to serve the increasing number of tourists. The flights to Da Lat, Phu Quoc, Hai Phong and Hue City have seen the number of passengers up by 30-40 percent.

Con Dao, Phu Quoc islands attract northern travelers

Con Dao and Phu Quoc are now not the choice of southern travelers any more, because of the high tour fees (the lowest rate is 4.5 million dong per traveler for 3-day-and-2-night tour). Meanwhile, the two localities have become the choice of more and more northern travelers, especially when direct flights from Hanoi to Phu Quoc have been launched. Besides, there are also the flights from Can Tho to the island.

The tours to Phu Quoc island (travelers can take directly flights with Air Mekong), including the ones provided by Vietravel (9.8 million dong per traveler for 4-day-and-3-night tour, 4-star resort), by Hanoi Redtours (7.9-8.5 million dong for 4-day-and-3-night tour, 3-star resort) have been selling very well.

With direct flights, travelers, instead of transiting in HCM City and wasting three hours at the HCM City airport, can go directly to Phu Quoc, where they have lunches and walk on Sao beach with white sand and blue sea water.

Nguyen Duy Quang, a business officer of Air Mekong has revealed that the direct flights from Hanoi to Phu Quoc always have the occupied seat percentage at 90-95 percent. In the three months of 2010’s summer, the airline only served 100 passengers who flew from Hanoi to Phu Quoc, while the number of passengers is expected to reach 400 in June-August of 2011.

Meanwhile, Dung from The He Tre said the number of southern travelers to the islands has decreased. In previous years, the firm served 600-700 travelers, while the number is thought to drop to 300-400.

(source: vietnamnet.vn)

Northern village preserves rich architectural heritage

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 07:02:00 -0700

Located by the Nhue River, 15km west of Hanoi, the ancient village of Cu Da is famous for its soya sauce and glass noodles. The suburban village has been attracting an increasing number of tourists in recent years, not only for its local specialities, but its traditional houses which reflect both the architectural and cultural values of the northern rural region.

Home to more than 100 wooden houses, the village is a popular tourist attraction for people in search of a glimpse of the past. Most of the tiled houses, which are hundreds of years old, were built from go xoan (bead tree or Chinaberry tree). The houses form a complex in the typical traditional architectural style of the Hong (Red) River Delta region.

A main house includes an ancestral altar, a set of wooden couches and a tea table. In the wings of the house are bedrooms for the owner and his eldest son. The other space is used for the women's living quarters.

The outbuildings are smaller than the main house and used as kitchens and dining rooms, and for storage. The traditional house of Trinh The Sung in Dong Nhan Cat Hamlet is considered the most beautiful and untouched of its kind. Built in 1864, the house consists of 35 wooden pillars, decorated in intricate carvings. With a similar architectural style, the 360m² house of Dinh Van Du in the same hamlet welcomes many visitors. According to the owner, six generations of his family have lived in the 200-year-old house.

The typical architecture of the northern rural area can also be found in the archways leading into the village's 12 hamlets.

The simple beauty of Cu Da together with its traditional houses have been used as the setting for a number of Vietnamese movies and TV series, including the famous Bao Gio Cho Den Thang Muoi (When the Tenth Month Comes), and the recent Leu Chong (Going to Royal Exam).

The village is not only home to traditional houses, but also modern colonial French villas, more than 20 of which can be found across the village.

Among the French villas, the estate of Trinh Thi Hong in Ba Gang Hamlet is considered the most beautiful. The two-storey house still retains almost all of its original features, including flowery motifs, a wrought iron balcony, tiled floors and a wooden staircase that combine to make an intriguing mix of French and Vietnamese styles.

(Source: VNS)

Italian architects help preserve Hanoi’s old quarter

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 5 Jun 2011 21:09:00 -0700

The Italian embassy in Vietnam and the Genoa Architects Association held a conference in Hanoi on June 3 to introduce Genoa’s experience in preserving its old city after it was recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage site.

The event, one of the activities to mark Italy Independence Day (June 2), said the Italian ambassador, Lorenzo Angeloni.

Architecture is one of the major issues of concern for the Italian embassy in Vietnam. The Genoa Architects Association and the Hanoi Architects Association have signed a cooperation agreement in the field.

Mirco Grassi, Head of the Genoa City Design Office said that Genoa has a population of 600,000 people living in an area of 30km2. The old city covering 3km2 was built in the 11th century with different lines of walls, narrow streets and some habours on the sea.

In the 13-14th centuries, the city was expanded to meet the demand for developing these habours.

Around 200 tall buildings were constructed in Genoa in 1900 to receive important guests to the city.

Today, 80 have been were selected for restoration and preservation and have also been recognised by UNESCO.

After restoration, some of the buildings will be inhabited and others have become cultural exhibition centres which attract a large number of tourists.

Giuliano Peirano, a representative from the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities, said that Italian architects are always ready to help Hanoi preserve its old quarter.

He proposed that the Vietnamese capital should decide which constructions in the old quarter need to be preserved. Hanoi should also focus on new technologies and solutions for preservation. The preservation work should be implemented gradually so it will not interfere with the lives of the people living there.

"Slow" photography depicting the depth of life

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 23 May 2011 00:09:00 -0700

Leica Vietnam Club this week opened an exhibition with the theme of “Sống” (To Live) in Hanoi, which featured photos depicting very real life.

Members of Leica photographer club prefer slower, quieter way of working.

Most members had been established professionals before they moved over to Leica. The main challenge for many of them in doing so was to change from the fast-paced methods of modern digital cameras, taking large numbers of pictures. The group's method is much slower and more selective, not focusing on quantity, but paying great attention to aesthetics and choice.

Some photos of the exhibition:

Boy with photo frame by Nguyen Viet Thanh

Huong River in March 1996 by Duong Minh Long

Mong boy on Ma Pi Peng Mountain by Hoai Linh

Portrait of aesthetics professor Duong Viet A by Hoang Anh Tuan - Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism

“Khu-Lai nhu thi”, known as understanding both the past and the future, by Venerable Thich Minh Hien

Sunset of West Lake by Phan Huu Lap

K Hospital by Tran Viet Dung

Street circus in Hamburg by Nguyen Chi Trung

Billiard by Nguyen Minh Tri

Pump tobacco or thuoc lao by Do Anh Tuan

Musician Trinh Cong Son shared the light with counterpart Van Cao by Duong Minh Long