Vietnam Is Awesome

Travel Daily News: Amazing ways to explore Vietnam

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 13:08:00 +0000

Vietnam is one of the most loved tourist destinations in the world. Whether you are a solo traveler, moving out with family or it is a tour with friends, you will always be able to create wonderful memories at this stunning place.

Travel Daily News, a network of news portals for the travel professionals, has recommended amazing ways to explore Vietnam and load your tour with lots of fun and adventure.

Photo: internet

The first option is enjoying lighting lantern in Hoi An. During Vietnamese New Year (Lunar New Year), you can also join the colorful festival by lighting a lantern at Hoi An. This celebration stays on for almost seven days, and you will find the entire Hoi An bridge loaded with lovely, attractive lanterns.

“Along with the festive vibes, here you will find numbers of food stalls and shopping corners with a spontaneous singing sound all around,” Travel Daily News wrote.

Photo: Vietnam Typical Tours

The second option is visiting Mekong Delta. You might be aware of the fact that the Mekong runs from the Tibetan Himalaya and after covering a long distance of 4,000 kilometers, it reaches Vietnam with a languid flow. Tourists love to enjoy a ride to this calm water with a cargo boat; indeed, it is a unique way to enjoy a picnic with kids. There are numbers of commercial cruises that can help you experience a wonderful time in the river.

Photo: Dave Bunnell

The third way is exploring the largest cave in the world. When you are out with friends, you might be eager to make your tour loaded with adventure and thrill. Well, the best idea is to explore World’s Largest Cave, named as Son Doong Cave. Here you can find several guides and special gears to get inside the deep caves.

Photo: Adam Jones

In addition, you can spare some time to explore Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province. The 1,600 limestone towers, rising creatively from the turquoise waters make Ha Long Bay one of the most astonishing visiting spot of Vietnam. It caters millions of tourists every year who love to take special cruise trips in the area. The Bai Tu Long Bay is also a few miles away from this site with jaw-dropping scenery and superior blessings of nature. The uncrowded caves and tiny yet fresh beach sites make this site a must visit place for all tourists.

Check out the majestic limestone islands on the bay, visit natural caves in Halong's journeys of discovery 2019: http://vietnamtypicaltours.com/location/halong-bay-cruises/

Other than this, Vietnam is popular for delicious recipes and amazing shopping centers. You will also find all accommodation and traveling services with ease. It clearly means you can explore this vibrant place in a trouble-free manner while creating wonderful memories for a lifetime. Never forget to carry your digital camera to capture beautiful pictures on these stunning destinations.

Halong A Day And Things Need To Keep In Mind

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 14:00:00 +0000

For a lot of people, Halong Bay is a place you need to visit at least once.

For some, it’s a place that’s unheard of and an unfamiliar destination talked about because of its natural beauty or maybe because of its world heritage title.

If you are planning a trip to Halong Bay a day while feeling lost and overwhelmed with all the blog post and information that roam the vast internet world about Halong Bay and beyond, this ultimate travel guide will give you everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Ha Long Bay.

Photo by Picryl

The best time to visit Halong Bay

October to December

The most popular period of the year for western tourists and visitors, October to December for some people can be the best time to go to Halong Bay as the weather is not sweaty, the waters are still calm as during summers, and the sky can still be blue and clear, depending on which month you go with.

The only cons during this period is the incredible number of tourists from all over the globe flocking Halong Bay usually all at the same time, especially during Christmas to New Year’s seasons.

Another disappointing factor during the high season for Halong Bay is that the weather can be mostly dull, grey, and quite chilly, as winter in the northern part of Vietnam starts around the end of November and can last until early April.

Again, the best way to avoid disappointment is to double check all necessary information with your tour operator or cruise company before booking anything. It’s always best to be prepared before flying to your final destination rather than find out the worst is yet to come.

When to visit on Halong Bay a day?

Normally, people will need to stay in Halong Bay for 2 days to 3 days either on cruise or a hotel on land. However, if you do not have much time to explore, Halong 1 day is also a bad choice.

Photo by Trina Chu

Things to consider when choosing a Halong Bay One Day Cruise

Prepare your budget

Let’s choose your one day Halong Bay cruise based on your budget, you don’t have to strain your finance to get a good experience in Vietnam. Typically, a Halong Bay tour package price ranges from 30 US$ to over 300 US$ per pax depending on the length of the trip and the service.

Halong Bay a day will cost you normally approximately 30 - 50 US$ per person. This kind of tour package will provide you with the basic itinerary, including accommodation, activity fee and food.

What is included in and excluded from the itinerary?

You should pay your attention to the itinerary. In the itinerary, you will see what is included – meals, transportation, accommodation, activities – and what is excluded or you have to pay extra – more often than not, drinks. You should ask if there are any additional cost and fee can be added along the trip to secure your money.

Also, you can have a rough idea of what the trip will be like, and they can prepare thing accordingly.

Furthermore, double check the activity lists to see anything that you may interest in. Some of the popular activities in Halong Bay tour package are visiting the pearl farm, visiting the floating village, swimming, exploring caves, sightseeing and taking a cooking class. Remember that your time is limited, so you should only choose the activities that appeal you most.

Photo by falco

How many hours should be?

The biggest difference between the cruises of Halong Bay is the amount of time you spend on the water. If you choose a four hour trip, the trip will be less expensive, but you will only be in the most salable places of Halong Bay, which are very crowded with various boats. You may or may not be able to visit one of the Gulf caves in time.

Most cruise trips last six hours, taking you to a cave, as well as a Vietnamese fishing village. Although people no longer live in fishing villages, it is very beautiful and still used.

If you rent a private boat, it is not difficult to create your own schedule. But then the cost will be quite high when you go in small groups. Taking the tour is a popular choice. However, you can not request activities and places of interest as you wish. And choose the companies that organize a tour with the most attractive schedules and routes, also to spend a day and a trip to Halong Bay day cruise tour.

The current day tour has two basic schedule as follows:

Go to Route 1: Visit Ga Choi, Thien Cung cave, kayaking in Ba Hang fishing village. This schedule is reserved for day tour because these locations are only 30 minutes away by boat. Often the place is for the delegation from the neighboring Asian countries to Vietnam.

Go to route 2: Visit the cave, Titov island, kayaking in Luon cave. This is the route for night train, so quite a few companies organize tours using this schedule. However, this is one of the most beautiful sightseeing tours in Halong Bay. It goes through the most beautiful spots of the bay and heads straight to the center of the natural heritage. If you go to Halong without going to this schedule, it is a pity and waste of time.

That is all of your things need to kind in mind for your Halong Bay one day cruise trip. We hope that you find this helpful and will have the best trip to Vietnam.

If you want more information or have further question, please contact us, the Vietnam Typical Tours. We are always at your service!

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Essential Guide for the trip to Pu Luong from Mai Chau [NEW UPDATE 2019]

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 10:33:00 +0000

Not too far from Hanoi capital city, Mai Chau and Pu Luong in the Northwest Vietnam are 2 top choices to get escape from the Hanoi’s bustle and enjoy interesting experiences in Vietnam.

Mai Chau - Pu Luong: Searching for inspiration on where to go for your dream adventure from Hanoi?

This trip offers a wide array of natural sceneries: jungle, terraced rice fields, forested limestone mountain, rivers, cascades and natural pools. It is beautiful and the local hospitality from Thai people is recognized throughout the country.

The following helpful information will be the necessary guide to an unforgettable trip at Mai Chau & Pu Luong.

Photo by Franzfoto

Best time to get visit Mai Chau and Pu Luong

The period between May and June or September and October is the best time for a tour to Mai Chau and Pu Luong. The end of May marks the beginning of the crop season, so you can see charming greenery of terraces if coming to Pu Luong at this time. Alternatively, September, when farmers prepare to harvest, is the best time to visit for those who want to witness yellow rice paddies on the slope across the valley.

How to get to?

During the journey to discover Mai Chau & Pu Luong you will have 3 trips between locations.

1. Transport from Hanoi to Mai Chau

It is certainly easy to find a travel agent in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which can help you arrange a tour package to Mai Chau. But you can absolutely go on your own according to the instructions below.

Buses directly to Mai Chau that drop off in town depart from the My Dinh bus station in Hanoi at 06:00, 07:30, 14:00 and 14:30 and cost 80,000 VND. The journey takes around 4 hours.

Alternatively buses to Hoa Binh leave Hanoi every 15 minutes between 06:00 and 18:00 (from 50,000 VND) and from Hoa Binh bus station there are regular buses to Mai Chau. The bus might drop off down the road from the bus station but if you make it clear that you're heading to Mai Chau they'll kick you off at the right place and point you in the correct direction. From Mai Chau town it's a 2-3km walk or 20,000 VND on motorbike taxi to the villages.

Instead of bus transportation, a motorbike excursion is a favorite choice of many adventure seekers. In spite of busy, dusty, noisy and more dangerous, the drivers from Hanoi will be rewarded with some awesome stretches, particularly jaw-dropping views over the surrounding paddy fields and limestone karst scenery.

Photo by kenh14

2. Transport from Mai Chau to Pu Luong

It is just about 40 kilometers from Mai Chau to Pu Luong,It is just about 40 kilometers from Mai Chau to Pu Luong,

From Mai Chau you can travel to Pu Luong by taxi, motorbike, even by bike.

Motorbike are the most chosen means of transportation. You can just enjoy the scenery of Vietnam countryside, and not spend too much time so you can experience more activities.

Another option for those who love to exercise is cycling from Mai Chau (maybe renting a bicycle in Mai Chau) to explore Pu Luong.

3. Transport from Pu Luong to Hanoi.

There is no bus route you can move from Pu Luong to Hanoi. You can only move from Pu Luong to Hanoi by private car or motorbike.

For the most convenient for a perfect journey from Hanoi to Mai Chau and Pu Luong and without unexpected risks and full exploration of the beauty of these two places, I encourage you to choose a Mai Chau & Pu Luong tour is suitable for your choice.

You will be provided with complete services, activities and experiences. learn more about Thai ethnic culture and cuisine through local guides.

Photo by kenh14

What to do in Mai Chau & Pu Luong?

Trek through terraced rice paddies and small villages in Mai Chau.

Discover the valley’s natural beauty and the ethnic minority Thai people’s culture.

Enjoy jaw-dropping scenery, the marvelous waterfalls, water-wheel and explore the surrounding countryside on back of a bicycle.

Take a stroll around the paddy fields, or arrange a longer trek to Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Bargain for traditional textile items without the usual hard sell.

Sample local specialties such as: sticky rice, Co Lung duck, etc.

For the most amazing backpacking experience in Pu Luong, you can hike on hidden trails along the primary forests and cool streams or drive through valley to Co Luong village and Thai village of Ban Lac to come up with the cultural space of Black Thai for cross-culture experience.

Accommodation in Mai Chau and Pu Luong

The accommodation services in Mai Chau recently can meet the demand of the dramatically increasing number of travelers. Therefore, there is no need to worry about where to stay in Mai Chau, even when you go independently.

Homestay is the best choice for those who want to experience local daily life. If you do not feel comfortable enough to be able stay with locals, Mai Chau Ecolodge is a highly recommended choice. It is a combination of luxury and eco style, giving you the feelings as being in nature, it is suitable for many foreign travelers.

The next day you can continue moving from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, where you can find Pu Luong Retreat. Located on 15C road – the main road of Thanh Lam commune and in close vicinity to many tourist attractions, it remains prominent among a number of homestays and inns here. Not being equipped with modern facilities, Pu Luong Retreat gives all guests the truly sense of nature.

There are also many other accommodation options depending on your needs. If you are looking for accommodation at these two destinations, let us know your requirements, some of our little suggestions that may suit your current needs. Email us: info@vietnamtypicaltours.com

Photo by internet

Famous delicacies in Mai Chau & Pu Luong

Homestay families in Mai Chau offer traditional meals at reasonable prices. You can have a Thai dancing performance accompanied with the meal you if want. The dishes are very local: sticky rice, grilled meat, bamboo shoots and ‘Can’ wine. Some typical dishes in Mai Chau are Com Lam, Grapefruit leaves pork roll, ..

Pu Luong is home to an amazing array of vegetables such as baby pumpkin leaf, green beans and bamboo shoots. Luong cuisine will bring the distinct characteristics of Thai cuisine with grilled dishes, items, and spices with many mountains flavors.

Don't stop at the rural beauty in the villages in Mai Chau, this trip also takes you to the beauty of the golden rice fields in Pu Luong (June or October) and the cultural identity of the people Thai ethnic. If you want an adventure experience in Mai Chau & Pu Luong, we hope that this travel guide would help you a lot in planning. And if you need any assistance, Vietnam Typical Tours experts are always here to customize your vacation.

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Every thing about trekking in Ha Giang province [NEW UPDATE 2019]

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 07:59:00 +0000

Head to the hills for a challenging, yet rewarding, trekking adventure. In the far northeast of Vietnam discover a land of immense beauty and intriguing hilltribe villages. Spend the days hiking up mountains and through rice paddies and the evenings in homestays, getting a true taste of traditional local life.

Don’t miss our new guide to Travel To Vietnam.

The landscape in Ha Giang is overwhelmingly beautiful. Limestone ridged mountains rise up in pyramidal shapes before sinking to hundred-foot mounds and then climbing once more to 5,000-foot peaks. Rice terraces slice along precariously steep mountainsides, hanging over blue snaking rivers, beneath blood-curdling bends. Although still a poor piece of land, the spectacular beauty of nature has attracted many photographers and adventure travel lovers.

Photo: otofun

The best time to trekking in Ha Giang

The best time to travel to the north-east Vietnam, Ha Giang is the dry season starting from late September, early October to late April, early May. During this time, December and January are the two coldest months.

It is a great time to hike in Ha Giang after the Tet Holidays which happens around late January or in February. At this time, the scenery is quite pleasant and serene. The magnificent mountain tops that are hidden behind the clouds and the fragrance of the wild peach flowers will influence and soothe your senses.

The rainy season (May to September) is not the ideal time for trekking in Ha Giang. During this time June and July are the two hottest months. The temperature can be around 38 – 42 degree C outside. There are sometimes land erosion and landslides.

If the purpose of your trip is to see the terraced fields in Ha Giang, then there are 2 times you should not miss:

Pour water season: May and June are the best time for you to watch Ha Giang canvases with fields are filled with water. Under the sun, the ladder is likely the giant mirror reflecting the sunlight.

The ripening rice season: This is the time that Ha Giang put on the yellow shirt of ripening rice. If you want to enjoy the beautiful fields were lush with ripening rice, then September and October will be about the time you should visit Ha Giang.

Photo: otofun

How to get to Ha Giang from Hanoi?

You can get from Hanoi to Ha Giang by bus, motorbike, or by private transfer.

By Bus: You can catch a bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang at My Dinh station. The trip will take about 7 hours and should cost no more than $10.

By Motorbike: It’s not uncommon for travelers to explore Northern Vietnam by motorbike. If you’re the adventurous type, perhaps there’s no better way to get to Ha Giang. You’ll get some of the world’s most spectacular views along the way, and enjoy more freedom than you would on a bus or an organized tour.

By Private Transfer: If you book a Ha Giang tour that begins in Hanoi, it will usually include minibus transfer. While this is the most expensive option, it is without a doubt the easiest way to get to Ha Giang.

Trekking in Ha Giang province

The mountainous and hilly terrain causes difficulties for travel and transport of goods, but in return it bestows beautiful travel sites with dozens of rivers and streams, fascinating caves and grottos, historic and cultural relics and a treasure of traditional cultures of the ethnic groups, which all enchant the visitors.

With pine forests, granite mountains, quiet farming villages, and heavenly views in every direction, Ha Giang is like an illustration of how nature can flourish when unsullied. The trekking routes in Ha Giang fall far enough from the tourist circuit, so you can wander the mountains of Ha Giang uninterrupted for days at a time.

Make no mistake that traveling Ha Giang is a pretty rugged trip. Sharing a border with China, Ha Giang is the northernmost point in Vietnam, and often referred to as the final frontier. To put it simply: it’s way the hell out there.

Most treks in Ha Giang range from 2-to-5 days. While you can’t trek from Ha Giang itself, there are trails starting from small villages nearby.

Photo: otofun

Short walks are available in many major towns of Ha Giang including Thong Nguyen, Ha Giang, Quan Ba, Dong Van. These half day hikes take you to different hill tribes villages are located near main towns.

Longer treks (3 day tours, 4 day itineraries, 5 days or even longer) are only available in the area of Hoang Su Phi, Xin Man, Viet Quang. You can either hike around these places or go towards Bac Ha and get picked up, brought back to Hanoi.

If you’re interested in trekking in Ha Giang, you can either arrange a Ha Giang trekking tour at: http://vietnamtypicaltours.com/location/ha-giang-tours/

Homestay or Ha Giang Hotel Stay with Day Treks?

As a poor province, Ha Giang will not have luxury hotels like the city. However, the hotels or homestays here still provide adequate basic amenities.

I would highly recommend trekking to a homestay unless drinking cheap cocktails with hordes of other tourists is your idea of a good time.

At a homestay, everything is taken care of for you. This can be good or bad. You don’t get a choice of food or drink, and you don’t decide who your roommates are, so a go-with-the-flow attitude is a must. But it will bring you many new and interesting experiences.

Photo: Trong Phu Homestay

Tell your tour operator ahead of time if you want a private or quiet stay — they should be able to arrange that for you.

If you do want to stay in a hostel or guesthouse, then contact us at here.

If you are planning a visit to Ha Giang and wondering about tour organizers in Vietnam.

Then here, you can consult Vietnam Typical Tours tour company. is one of the companies that organize travel tours that are loved and trusted by tourists. With 4 consecutive years, you have been awarded with the excellent certificate of the TripAdvisor community.

Whether who you are, what you do and when you want to join, we have suitable adventure trips for your one a life time holiday in North East Vietnam.

CNN: Helicopter is a new way to explore Ha Long Bay from above

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 03:27:00 +0000

Water cruising has long been one of the top things to do when visiting Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh province.

Discovering Halong Bay on cruise is still a popular way that most tourists choose when coming to Vietnam. See the list of the best yachts in Halong Bay 2019 at HERE

CNN, a US news television channel, has reported that helicopter is a new way to air cruising over Ha Long Bay, a dazzling natural attraction in Vietnam.

Photo by CNN

Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company, a subsidiary of state-owned helicopter operator Vietnam Helicopter Corporation, has launched a series of tourism flights over the scenic Ha Long Bay area.

CNN said that there are three different routing options for visitors, with prices ranging between US$125 and US$396 per person.

“The cheapest journey lasts for 12 minutes and will hover over six tourist sites, including Thien Cung cave, Titop island and Bai Tu Long Bay. The most expensive experience lasts for 40 minutes with views of 17 different sites along Ha Long Bay,” CNN wrote.

Flights depart from and land at Tuan Chau island, which is about 170-kilometers from Hanoi.

It isn't the first and only air sightseeing in the area. Hai Au Aviation, the first company in Vietnam operating commercial seaplane service, also offers air tourism over Ha Long Bay.

The 25-minute tour takes off and lands from the water at Tuan Chau Island Marina. The cost ranges from US$102-120 depending on the season and includes views of Dau Be Island, Cong Do Island and Bo Hon Island.

Recognized twice by the UNESCO as a global heritage for its landscape and geological value, Ha Long Bay has become a magnetic destination for visitors to Quang Ninh.

Vietnam Travel Magazine's travel magazine page provides all the guides and tips on Halong bay travel, take the time to learn and plan for a perfect vacation in Vietnam.

Website: http://www.viettravelmagazine.com/

Synthetic 15 experiences worth trying in Ninh Binh 2019

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Fri, 07 Jun 2019 06:30:00 +0000

Just 100 kilometers to the south of capital Hanoi, Ninh Binh has gained some popularity in recent years as the hidden gem of Northern Vietnam.

Ninh Binh is now the hottest destination in Vietnam

Known as Halong Bay on land, Ninh Binh is famous for its picturesque natural scenery and beautiful historical and religious sites. This landscape offers similar landscape views as like Halong Bay with limestone karsts, but much less touristy and untouched by human.

Below is an article summarizing 16 worthwhile experiences to try every time you come to Ninh Binh.

Photo:

1. Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Used to be the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, Hoa Lu today is a national-level cultural center filled with ancient pagodas and citadels. Hoa Lu gives off a mysterious yet nostalgic vibe as it’s surrounded by high arc-shaped rocky mountains, spectacular scenery and numerous calm lakes. This charming and tranquil landscape always leaves a strong appeal for anyone visiting.

Inside the complex, there is an iconic archway in the entrance on the bridge leading into the capital. Because of wars, there are not many remainings except some temples built on the old sites which are King Dinh and King Le Temples.

This place is for everyone want to know and dig deeper into the culture, history and ancient Viet architecture.

2. Trang An Boat Tour

The Trang An Grottoes consist of a variety of caves, rocks, and temples surrounded by canals, lakes. Take a scenic boat ride through the river networks and you’ll be greeted with amazing sights of the extraordinary natural landforms. It’s simply mesmerizing.

Taking a boat trip is one of the most popular things to do in Ninh Binh for tourists. Trang An boat tour takes around 2 hours and you will be carried around by a skillful lady. They not only peddle by hands but also by their legs. How incredible they are!

>>> Book A Bai Dinh Trang An Tour To Discover The Beauty of Nature and The Religious Monument

Photo: internet

3. Visit Kong: Skull Island Movie Set and Tribal Village

You've watched the filmed and would love to see the film set of this hollywood blockbuster, wait no longer and visit Trang An to live in the movie's alternative universe. The tribal village you've come alive with the rattan huts, tribal people with all the decorative items just like in the film.

At this site, you can also find the models of ship and airplane mimicking the movie. Tribal villagers are role-played by the locals and you can take photographs or selfies with them. With the magnificent backdrop of Trang An landscape, this village makes a unique places to produce impressive photo for your Instagram posts.

4. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda - What to do in Ninh Binh Viet Nam

Bai Dinh Complex is the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia which covers 530 hectares of land. The whole complex consists of the original old temple for Buddhist privileges and a newly created larger temple for tourists visiting.

As a spiritual complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda offers pleasant sights and gives off a peaceful feeling. Temples, shrines and pagodas are spread out over the hillside with fantastic views over the surrounding countryside.

Photo: Ves Pa

5. Trek Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong is the most famous national park in Vietnam, also the oldest one and the largest nature reserve, spreading out on three provinces. What you can find in this paradise of wildlife are limestone mountains with hidden caves, thousand-year trees and lush valleys.

Cuc Phuong is home to a biodiversity of flora and fauna, including 97 species of mammals, langurs; 300 species of birds, 11 species of fish; 2,000 species of vascular plants, and thousands of species of insects.

To visit Cuc Phuong National Park, you'll have to pay 40,000VND for admission. Firstly you'll come to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center which is responsible for rescuing individual animals of rare primates and home to over 140 creatures and 100 offsprings in all from 15 species of gibbon (long-armed, fruit-eating ape), languor (long-tailed tree-dwelling monkey) and Lories (smaller nocturnal primate with large eyes).

The second stop is Prehistoric People Cave - the place where ancient people were living 7500 years ago. The most special feature of the park is the 1000-year-old Cho Tree with a diameter of 5.5m.

Son Cung Cave and 648-m Silver Cloud Mountain are the slightly more challenging options for your trek.

A visit to this nature paradise offers you chance to see a wide range of flora and fauna, caves and hot springs. You’ll be surrounded by a quiet atmosphere, fresh air – it’s literally the best escape from city life.

Photo: Vietnam Typical Tours

6. Watch Birds at Thung Nham Garden

Thung Nham Bird Garden is home to about 40 species of birds – a truly hidden gem in Ninh Binh which is still underrated. Tucked away in the limestone cliffs, Thung Nham sees most of the birds in the region coming to make their nests.

7. Cycle around the rice paddies - Top things to do in Ninh Binh

Cycling around peaceful villages is among top things to do Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is a tranquil, peaceful countryside and tourist-friendly. The roads are mainly flat and not crowded like Hanoi and it’s easy to cycle around.

Many hotels and guesthouses offer free bicycles for tourists or ones to rent for a few dollars. Or there’re some tour operators offer Ninh Binh tour that includes cycling activity in their itinerary.

8. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is another spot for nature lovers who want to discover Vietnam wildlife.

Van Long Nature Reserve is actually the biggest wetland reserve in Northern Vietnam which is home to a number of Vietnamese species like monkeys, reptiles, and especially birds. Some of them are the endangered ones.

It is a unique complex and charming landscapes with heaving rock islands standing in immense water. As the transition region between the plain and the mountainous region, the reserve retains the diverse and varied terrain, including a tropical forest ecosystem in karst and the vast system of marshes.

Photo: Vietnam Typical Tours

9. Explore Mua Cave - What to see in Ninh Binh

Without a doubt, Mua Cave is one of the most alluring views in Ninh Binh. Mua Cave is located at the foot of the Mua mountain and you have to climb up to the top in order to admire the panoramic view.

Experience "Great Wall" in Vietnam with a Mua cave one day tour from Hanoi

To reach the top of Mua Cave, visitors will cross a small bridge over the stream gently flowing, then a paved way covered with green trees and about 500-steps stair up to the top. Standing on the top of Mua Mountain, visitors will admire the most magnificent scenery. In May and June, the entire landscape of paddy fields is minimized in your view.

10. Tam Coc Boat Trip

This 2-hour boat ride which runs through Ngo Dong river will take you through caves, rice fields, and unique karst rocks. You will feel like you’re in a movie scene cruising down a natural kingdom like this.

The single most fascinating thing about the boats in Tam Coc is the women that row the wooden paddles. They use their feet to ride the boats. This is a special technique that takes months to master.

Photo: Vietnam Typical Tours

11. Bich Dong Pagoda

Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda is another favorite thing to do in Ninh Binh. Bich Dong Pagoda is a beautiful ancient temple built in the 15th century. Not a usual pagoda, Bich Dong consists of 3 separate layered pagodas which are Ha, Trung and Thuong Pagoda on different levels and you have to climb up the hillside to explore each of them.

Climbing up to each pagoda may be tiring but when you reach the top, the views are well worth it.

12. Visit Phat Diem Cathedral

Phat Diem Cathedral is 34 kilometers away from Ninh Binh center and sits in the middle of scenic canals and rice paddies. The cathedral is built of stones is a very beautiful mixture of eastern & western gothic architecture which includes 2 gothic chapels and some massive ironwood columns.

Phat Diem Cathedral is one of the top things to see in Ninh Binh. When visiting Phat Diem Cathedral, you should combine it with a trip to Trang An or Tam Coc.

Photo: internet

13. Try Ninh Binh Cuisine

In addition to the historical value, charming and beautiful views, Ninh Binh also impress tourists with unique dishes. One of the best things to do in Ninh Binh is trying their delicious and unique cuisine.

If you have chance to visit Ninh Binh, you should try the Eel Vermicelli which is one of the most delicious dish of Ninh Binh. Besides, there are also many other specialities such as Mountain Goat meat, Com Chay Ninh Binh( also known as Ninh Binh rice crust), fish salad, moutain snais, fermented pork roll,… Ninh Binh rice crust is one of the famous speciallities of Ninh Binh which is different from other parts of the sheep until sauce comes.

Tourists also can buy some foods as a gift for family, friends like Ninh Binh rice crust, Shrimp Sauce,…

14. Visit Endangered Primate Rescue Center

Located inside Cuc Phuong National Park, the Endangered Primate Rescue Center is taken care by Frankfurt Zoological Society and Cuc Phuong National Park staff.

The animals here were rescued to save them from illegal traders and the focus of the facility is to educate visitors on how to protect wild animals in Vietnam. Today, this is home of around 180 primates representing 15 species.

Come here as you will have a chance to observe rare animal species. You can also visit the Turtle Conservation Center at the same time as the rescue center using the same ticket.

15. Shop at Van Lan - Things to do around Ninh Binh

Van Lan is a small village located near the famous Hoa Lu Tam Coc tourist site. In addition to its rich cultural and historical tradition, the village is famous for its traditional embroidery craft.

Wandering around the village, you can find many handicraft products including napkins, pillowcases, tablecloths and even t-shirts.

Go to Van Lan Village and you will find some souvenirs. However, you need bargaining skill to shop at the best price.

With all these best things to do in Ninh Binh, ready to pack your back and let's go discover the beauty of this landscape? Trust me, you won’t regret it. Feel free to contact us if you need some helps!

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How to travel to Sapa from Hanoi by train?

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Tue, 21 May 2019 11:45:00 +0000

Sapa is a one of Vietnam’s most popular destinations, but with no nearby airport the only option for getting there is to travel by road or rail. Currently there are many options to travel from Hanoi to Sapa, in which Sapa express bus from Hanoi is the most popular choice for travelers < See detail at here>. However, if you want to have more train experience in Vietnam on this trip, OK! It's not a bad choice.

Taking the overnight train to Sapa is a unique experience. Here is all you need to know about train to Sapa from Hanoi!

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Should I take a train from Hanoi to Sapa?

You should first determine that going to Sapa by train will take more time than buses, and the train only reaches Lao Cai city station, wanting to go to Sapa you need to move nearly 40km by car, taxi or motobkie. But experiencing Vietnam train is also very interesting, if you have time, this is also one of the experiences you should try.

The Positives of the Overnight Train to Sapa:

It is a great way to save ‘time’ as you travel overnight.

If you choose to go with the train from Hanoi to Sapa option, it is important to choose the ‘soft-sleeper’ option. You either have the option on this train of sharing your cabin with other people (4 pax) or alternatively to purchase all 4 tickets for you and your partner/friend which means you now have what they call a VIP private cabin.

We thought the cabins were beautifully decorated, soft pillows and mattresses, slippers under the bed. There were also free water, snacks, toothbrushes in each cabin.

We were grateful for the electrical points as well so that we could charge up our electronics before hitting Bac Ha markets upon arrival in the Sapa region.

The train also has some western style toilets for those of you who would be concerned about that! They stayed fairly clean for our train trip and had toilet paper for the whole duration of the night – although I still suggest you take some of your own just for in case!

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Train fares for all trains departing from Sapa to Hanoi

Train No	Class	Include	Price for one ticket in a shared cabin
Dream Train	Deluxe 4 berths	Mineral waters Biscuits Fruit Paper cup Wet towels	From $ 32	Book This
	VIP 2 berths	Mineral waters Biscuits Fruit Paper cup Wet towels
King Express Train SP4	Deluxe class with wooden cabin – 4 berths sharing	1 mineral water, tissue, plastic cup, tea & coke	From $ 30	Book This
	Private 4-berth cabin, 2 upper bunks are foldable & set up similar VIP cabin	1 mineral water, tissue, plastic cup, tea, coke soft drink or can of beer
	VIP Class – 2 berths (only 1 VIP available)	1 mineral water, tissue, plastic cup, tea, coke. soft drink or can of beer
Sapaly Express Train	First class with wooden cabin – 4 berths sharing	1 mineral water, cookies indoor slippers, comb, toothbrush & paste hot water	From $ 40	Book This
	Private 4-berth cabin, 2 upper bunks are foldable & set up similar VIP cabin	1 mineral water, cookies indoor slippers, comb, toothbrush & paste hot water 1 small cake & soft drink or can of beer
Chapa Express Train	First class with wooden cabin – 4 berths sharing	Welcome drink, bathroom at Chapa Lounge, 1 cookies/snack or fruit, mineral water	From $ 37	Book This
	Private 4-berth cabin, 2 upper bunks are foldable	Welcome drink, bathroom at Chapa Lounge, earbuds, 1 cookies/snack or fruit, mineral water & soft drink or can of beer

Where to buy train tickets to Sapa?

There are 3 ways to book seat on a train in Vietnam.

1: Book online on the Vietnamese railway website dsvn.vn. After you choose your seat, date and time, you will have to go yourself to the nearest train station with the e-mail confirmation in order to pay for your ticket in VND cash (unless you have a Vietnamese credit card to proceed with payment online, foreign cards are not accepted).

2: Book online on amt.12go.asia or book on baolau.vn both very nice and clear websites which allow you to use all the main global credit cards. Prices are fair, same as on the Vietnamese one, you will only have to pay a processing fee (around 2$). You will receive your e-tickets straight to your e-mail, and you will have to show it when you board the train.

3: Just head to the train station and buy the ticket that suits you. Most of the employees can speak a basic English which is enough to make the job.

In addition, for the best support you can book tickets on Sapa Tours From Hanoi, we have selected the best types and provide all the best services for you.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Train schedule from Hanoi to Lao Cai

SP3/SP4 also conveys several private sleeping-cars including the Orient Express, Sapaly Express Train ( Recommended ) and Victoria Express Train, Dream Train ( Recommended )

SP7, SP8: Daily. Recommended train. Also conveys privately-run 'Livitrans' sleeping-cars for tourists, Livitrans Express and King Express

Hanoi to Lao Cai (for Sapa) timetable

Hanoi to Lao Cai (For Sapa)
Station	Hanoi	Yen Bai	Bao Ha	Pho Lu	Lao Cai
SP3	21:50	01:52	04:16	05:02	06:15

Lao Cai (for Sapa) to Hanoi timetable

Lao Cai (For Sapa) to Hanoi
Station	Lao Cai	Pho Lu	Bao Ha	Yen Bai	Hanoi
SP4	21:00	22:07	22:53	01:09	05:15

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Travelling with children in the train

For trains operated by Vietnam Railways:

- passengers under 6 years old don't need to buy train ticket if they seat with their parents, or else benefit from 25% discount in all fares when they book a separate ticket. If you don't wish to take this passenger into account when making the booking, please select a smaller number of passengers.

- passengers from 6 to 9 years old need to buy train ticket but benefit from 25% discount in all fares.

- passengers with 10 years old or over are not eligible for children discount, need to book train ticket as adults.

For trains operated by Victoria Express, Fansipan Express, King Express, Orient Express, Sapaly Express, Chapa Express, Livitrans Express, Violette Train or Saigon Golden Train:

- passengers under 3 years old don't nees to buy ticket if they seat with their parents. If you don't wish to take this passengers into account when making the booking, please select a smaller number of passengers.

Here are some of the basic information we provide for you to take a closer look at the train to Sapa from Hanoi, we know there are still many problems that you wonder so we are here. ready to support you all the time. If you need any information about Vietnam travel, please share with us to get the fastest and most accurate answer.

Vietnam Typical Tours

Hotline: 0084 974 861 652

Email: info@vietnamtypicaltours.com

Website: vietnamtypicaltours.com

What to do if you only have 2 days for Halong Bay?

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 09 May 2019 08:39:00 +0000

Dive into Ha Long Bay and find out why it’s become a famous World Heritage site. You’ll be sure to feel the spirit!

“Ha Long Bay” means Descending Dragon Bay. Legends tell of dragons sent to defend Vietnam’s Tonkin gulf from its enemies. After the battle, the dragons descended to the sea, forming the breathtaking islands you see here today.

Ha Long Bay is not only a historical site, it’s also home to thousands of marine species and magnificent landscapes.

So if you spend 2 days in Halong Bay, what do you plan to do? With countless tips from travel magazine around the world, among hundreds of interesting destinations in Halong Bay, it is not easy to plan your trip for your 2-day trip.

However, with the desire to bring a beautiful image of Vietnam to international friends, here is our suggested journey for you.

Note: this journey is a suggestion from a personal point of view, you absolutely can choose other great destinations in Halong, our aim is to bring a happy and wonderful holiday for you at Vietnam.

Day 1: Discover the heaven on earth of Halong

Photo by Andrew Crump

1. Exploring the spectacular natural landscapes

Departing from Hanoi, it will take you about 3 – 4 hours to arrive Halong. Upon arrival, the best way to enjoy this inspiring scenery is to join on a Halong bay cruise that take you to many impressive natural landscapes of limestone caves, iconic islets and grottoes, each of them with their own beauty and the stories associated with it.

Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave)

Situated in the central area of Ha Long Bay, on the Bo Hon island, Sung Sot Cave is considered one of the most beautiful caves in the bay. Covering a total area of over 10,000m², the cave is divided into two main sections, with numerous stone stalactites creating a beautiful natural sculpture.

Thien Cung Grotto (Heaven Grotto)

Situated on the southwest side of the bay, Thien Cung grotto is also a top attraction in Halong. With the total area of 10,000m² with its complex interior structure, the grotto fascinates all of its visitors. Inside, you can find a lot of stalactites and stalagmites with strange shapes, hanging down like colorful curtains. Combined with light from the outside, the space in grotto is like a heaven on earth. Be sure to take as many photos as you can to remember it by.

Trong Mai Islet (Fighting Cock Rocks)

Trong Mai islet, also known as “Ga Choi”, is usually one of the first islets that you will see during your trip. Shaped like a pair of chickens rising from the blue sea, these rocks make up the most well-known islet in Halong Bay. The name “Trong – Mai” evokes the image of male and female with loyal love and cohesion. With its artistic value and meaning, Trong Mai has become a symbol of Ha Long Bay.

Dau Go Cave

Situated on Dau Go island in Ha Long Bay, Dau Go Cave is considered one of the most beautiful caves in Vietnam. The cave is approximately 5,000m2, divided into three main sections with a 17m wide entrance. At the end of the cave is a well of clear water surrounded by four ancient walls. Apart from the beautiful stalactites, Dau Go is also well-known for its great diversity of plants like moss, ferns and woody trees,… distinguishing it from some of the other caves.

2. Kayaking through the Bay

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

If you are looking for something more challenging after visiting the caves, kayaking is a good option. Halong Bay has been voted by National Geographic Adventures as one of the top 25 Kayak Tours in the world. Clear and blue water, large space and calm tides, Halong Bay is the perfect location for this experience. The feeling of rowing boats through the majestic caves that heavy ships can’t navigate is definitely great. In Halong, you can rent kayaks with a rental fee of 100k – 200k VND/ hour depending on the type of boat, and remember that a life jacket is a must for safety. Don’t miss this!

3. Wandering through Halong night market

After such a long tiring day, allowing yourself to relax by wandering through Halong night market is a good idea.

Situated in the center of city, the market is open from 6pm until late at night with more than 100 stalls. This place is quite full of goods from the ordinary to the high-class ones. Here, it’s easy to find most souvenirs, handicrafts, backpacks, handbags, etc. You can buy a key ring made of shellfish for friends or buy colorful shirts in Ha Long – Tuan Chau. Besides shopping, enjoying the fresh seafood dishes like grilled clams, fried squid,… around this area is also a must try. Don’t forget to ask the price and make a bargain before ordering!

Day 2: Embrace the marvelous view of Halong bay

Photo by Tranlink1011

1. Climbing Bai Tho Mountain (The Poem Mountain)

Bai Tho is a beautiful limestone mountain located in the city center so travelers of Halong Bay can add this place to the schedule. This is another place to explore Halong from a different perspective. The mountain is only about 200m high so the road isn’t long but quite steep, luckily, there are still stone steps for you. Within about 30 mins of climbing, you will be rewarded with a marvelous view over Halong bay while standing on the top. Remember to bring water and wear sneakers to ensure safety.

2. Visiting Tuan Chau Island

After climbing, you can move to Tuan Chau island for swimming and sunbathing. Located in the southwest of Halong, the island covers an area of 400ha. Thanks to the convenient location, it is easy to get to Tuan Chau by bus or motorbike through a 2km long road connecting it to the mainland. Tuan Chau is famous for its 6km long sandy beach, which will make you comfortable in the midst of the blue sea waves. In addition, tourists might also experience a variety of exciting activities like beach volleyball, canoes parachuting, sea fishing, or other lavish services and entertainment such as dolphin show, seal show, circus, and martial art show.

You can enjoy the journey here till around 4 – 4.30pm. This is the perfect time to end your trip and head back to Hanoi.

What to eat in Halong?

Photo by collect on the internet

Travelling to Halong Bay, Vietnam without feasting on the following dishes would be a shame. Don’t miss out! There is so much incredible gastronomy at this charming Bay, for foodies and newcomers alike.

Cha Muc (Squid Sausage)

Cha Muc is the most famous food of Quang Ninh and also in the top 50 specialties of Vietnam. The main ingredient of Cha Muc, of course, is squid. The crunchy and delicate texture of this specific variety of squid, and the juicy flavour and attractive aroma of this dish goes perfectly well with Xôi (boiled rice, sticky rice) or Bánh Cuốn (a type of thin, steamed rice cake).

This beautiful piece of culinary mastery is sold at many stores and stalls around the city and especially at Halong Market.

Photo by collect on the internet

Sá sùng / Sipunculus nudus

This is probably the most expensive seafood dishes in Halong and almost only in Quan Lan Island (belonged to Bai Tu Long archipelago). Sa sung is a marine worms type, live beneath the sand in a long time, like clean environment and oxygen-rich seawater. In polluted waters area, it has absolutely no sa sung. Halong people use sa sung to cook many good food as grilled with chili salt, fried with garlic or pineapple, roasted and served with chili, lettuce or crunchy fried…. Especially, eaten raw sa sung with mustard is very tasty and nutritious. However, price is not cheap, the price of 1 kg dried nudus is ranged from 100 USD to 200 USD depending on type.

Ngan

Ngan is a type of hard clam. In Vietnamese, Ngan means tasteless but in fact it is quite delicious and carries a very delicate and pleasant aftertaste. If you are planning on visiting Halong, you may have many Ngán dishes like grilled, steamed, deep-fried with vegetables. Amongst all products made from Ngan, the most famous one is Ngan wine.

You can easily find it anywhere from street foods style to seafood restaurants in Halong.

A Halong holiday allows your mind to relax, and as you stop worrying about your job and social life, you can focus on recharging your batteries, having fun, learning new things and broadening your horizons. It is good to travel as far away from home as possible, and really immerse yourself in a different culture.

Dong Van Kasst Plateau: Top 5 places for photo hunters

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Wed, 08 May 2019 14:04:00 +0000

With its earth heritage and unique culture of ethnic minority groups, the Dong Van Karst Plateau in Ha Giang province is one of the most spectacular destinations in Vietnam and favored by photographer.

From Ha Giang province, tourists take the national highway 4C for 43 kilometers to reach Quan Ba district. Passing over the bumpy Can Ty pass and through pine forests and round zigzagging roads, tourists will arrive in Dong Van Karst Plateau.

Sitting 1,600 meters above sea level and covering 2,530 square kilometers, the Plateau shows the typical signs of the development of the earth’s crust. 80% of the plateau is open-cast lime.

The rocky outcrops, small waterfalls, terraced fields, and small thatched houses nestled behind rock walls and peach gardens creates a stunningly picturesque landscape and is the destination of photographers.

Let's explore the 5 suggestions below to make memorable photo sets for photo hunters.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Ma Li Leng Pass

Ma Pi Leng is a must-stop for tourists to the Dong Van Karst Plateau. To tell the truth, Ma Li Peng pass is also a beautiful symbol for the people of this place. It attracts adventurous travelers seeking out challenges like its high mountains and winding roads. Nho Que river is another must-see visit destination there.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Sung La Valley

Sung La in Dong Van district is an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts, with some popular names among photo hunters like Pho Cao and Pho Bang. It is also famous for a local house which appeared in the film “Pao’s Story”.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Lo Lo ethnic village

Lo Lo ethnic village is located at the foot of Lung Cu flagpole and is popular for its wonderful traditional houses. The ideal destination to learn about the unique culture of Ha Giang's Lo Lo minority group.

Photo by collect on the internet

Don Cao Fortness

Don Cao Fortness in Dong Van district is a historic relic site associated with the war of resistance against the French colonists. In addition, from Don Cao, you can enjoy a stunning view of Dong Van town, climb to the top of Mount Don Cao, 1,200 meters (around 4,000 feet) above sea level, to a military post that was originally built by the French. The area has been left largely untouched and is only visited occasionally by those seeking a bird’s-eye view of Dong Van.

Photo by trungydang

Dong Van Town

Dong Van District is home to a mixed community of Tay, Nung and H’Mong people. If you take a trip in April or May, you will see locals tending to their terraced fields. In September and October, the rice is ready for harvest and you will be treated to breathtaking scenes of vast yellow fields with buckwheat flowers as a bonus. Between November and January, it’s the pure white and yellow mustard flowers that enchant visitors.

Travelling to Northernmost of Vietnam to see people still live in harmony with nature and away from the claws of urbanization.

Satisfying hunger pangs with Noodle in Hanoi Old Quarter

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Tue, 07 May 2019 15:45:00 +0000

It is well known that a trip to Northern Vietnam is a feast for the eyes. But before departing to the north of Vietnam, reward yourself with a journey to fill your stomach with unique delicacies in Hanoi.

Pho? Banh mi? What else? From smokey grilled meats by the street to a pizza joint we failed to get reservations for thrice (and how about eggs in your beer?), this is the only Hanoi food guide you need.

Bún Bò Nam Bộ Bách Phương

Photo by collect on the internet

Bun Bo Nam Bo Bach Phuong is like a household name, serving what some say is the best street food in Hanoi. Its signature dish bun bo nam bo (beef noodle salad) is a delectable medley of springy noodles, fresh veggies, and tender beef slices. If you’re extra hungry, add a nem chua (sour meatball) or gio (pork roll). Both cost 6,000₫ (~S$0.35).

The eatery sees a steady stream of locals and foreigners. Go earlier or after regular mealtimes to avoid the crowd!

Cost: 60,000₫ (~S$3.50)

Opening Hours: 7:30AM – 10:30PM

Address: 67 Hàng Điếu, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Phở Cuốn Vinh Phong

Photo by @vietnamesegod via Instagram

You may have had pho in soup form, but have you ever had it deep fried? For a textural change, head to Pho Cuon Vinh Phong and order pho chien phong (50,000₫, ~S$2.90). Thick rice noodles are deep fried to a crisp, and finished with a heap of stir-fried vegetables and beef slices. Healthy-ish!

Cost: 50,000₫ (~S$2.90)

Opening Hours: 8AM – 10PM

Address: 40 Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hanoi

Spicy Phở Bay

Photo by collect on the internet

I know, it’s pho — but hear me out! We stumbled upon Spicy Pho Bay, a hidden gem that was so pho-king good (hehe) we went back twice. The pho (30,000₫, ~S$1.80) is simple and delicious, with a huge portion of noodles and beef slices. Add a dollop of outrageously spicy, Hainanese chicken rice-esque chilli into the broth to kick it up a notch!

The star of Spicy Pho Bay, though, is the unassuming mixed fried rice (com rang thap cam, 30,000₫). Butter-fried rice is piled high on a plate with Chinese sausages, tofu and spring onions. It’s incredibly fragrant, and perfect for sharing.

Cost: From 30,000₫ – 50,000₫ (~S$1.80 – ~S$2.90)

Opening Hours: 7AM – 11PM

Address: 1a Đặng Thai Mai, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hanoi

Note: This eatery is located outside Hanoi Old Quarter, where most street food is located. If you’re looking for a nearby alternative, try Pho Gia Truyen.

Miến Lươn Đông Thịnh

Photo by collect on the internet

It’s not exactly unagi, but it’s just as delicious. Mien Luon Dong Thinh specialises in fried and grilled eels. It’s an interesting alternative to the usual proteins, and worth checking out if you enjoy the aromatic, fishy taste of eel. There are both dry and soup noodle versions available, and even porridge too!

Cost: From 25,000₫ – 60,000₫ (~S$1.50 – ~S$3.50)

Opening Hours: 6:30AM – 9:30PM

Address: 87 Hàng Điếu, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Bún Riêu Cua Hàng Bạc

Photo by collect on the internet

Bun rieu is another highly popular noodle dish in Vietnam. This version has freshwater crab, pork, tofu, and vermicelli noodles swimming in a tangy tomato broth. Bún Riêu Cua Hàng Bạc is apparently one of the best stores in Hanoi. The evidence? Hordes of locals crowding here every morning for a hot bun rieu breakfast.

Cost: 30,000₫ (~S$1.80)

Opening Hours: 7AM – 10:30PM

Address: 11 Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Chả Cá Thăng Long

Photo by collect on the internet

PSA seafood lovers: don’t miss cha ca, grilled fish with turmeric and dill that originated from Hanoi. Cha Ca Thang Long is a highly recommended restaurant that serves this local delight, and they don’t disappoint. Fresh, tender fish is served alongside vermicelli, fresh herbs, peanuts, and a special in-house dressing.

Cost: 120,000₫ (~S$7)

Opening Hours: 10AM – 9:30PM

Address: 19-21-31, Dương Thành, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Bún Ốc Phố Cổ

Photo by collect on the internet

Simply put, bun oc is snail noodle soup. As strange as it may sound, it’s actually quite light and delicious. (Btw, the snails are from rice paddies, not streets!) Don’t expect anything fancy though. You’ll be sitting on plastic stools by the street slurping these suckers down — just like Anthony Bourdain did.

Cost: 45,000₫ (~S$2.60)

Opening Hours: 7:30AM – 3PM, 5PM – 11PM

Address: 36 Lương Ngọc Quyến, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Hạnh Ngan Dé

Photo by collect on the internet

Duck noodles with a tastier twist! Hanh Ngan De uses muscovy duck, a large duck with leaner and more tender meat. We recommend having boiled duck with savoury glass noodles (mien tron, 45,000₫). Bigger eaters can go for bun mien ngan (50,000₫, ~S$2.90), soupy rice noodles which come with a chunk of coagulated duck blood.

Carnivores can also order boiled (ngan luoc) or grilled duck (ngan nuong) on its own — a one-quarter portion costs 80,000₫ (~S$4.70).

Cost: From 40,000₫ – 320,000₫ (~S$2.30 – ~S$18.60)

Opening Hours: 7AM – 10PM

Address: 63 Cửa Bắc, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hanoi

Use the Hanoi city tour to search and enjoy these unique dishes. Wanna find out more about Vietnam? Check out all our Vietnam content here!

Nho Que river is beautiful like the fairy scene in the middle of the jungle

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Mon, 06 May 2019 09:59:00 +0000

The land of Ha Giang has a blue Nho Que river, which flows year-round smoothly through majestic mountains. The beautiful scenery here attracts tourists everywhere.

Located at the foot of HaGiang's rugged cat ears stone mountain., Nho Que river flows all year round smoothly among cliffs, forming a blue border line between Ma Pi Leng Pass and Sam Pun Road.

Photo by chuyenngo

Ma Pi Leng Pass looks down on the Nho Que River, which is known as "legend" because of its steep slope and special bends. Coming here, you will be able to see the distance from the mountain to the view of Ma Pi Leng Pass with the height of 1,200 m.

To be able to see Nho Que River in the most favorable position, tourists often choose to stop at Ma Pi Leng Pass. Although having to run through a dangerous 20 km road, many people still love to come here to enjoy the beauty of the river and take real pictures "quality" in the big rocky cliffs.

Photo by bi_tabu

The beautiful scenery here attracts not only ordinary tourists, but also photographers.

Today, this pass along with Nho Que river has become a beautiful place attracting tourists who love adventure. The landscape here still remains pure and untouched. Somewhere on the mountain backs there are still villages of ethnic people living, the river at dawn is filled with fanciful fog.

Photo by tran_heo_heo

In 2009, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism classified this area as the Vietnam Scenic Attractions, the Nho Que River was honored as one of the unique Kien Kien Valley of Vietnam. If you love nature and adventure then this is one of the places you should conquer once in your life. Come here, you know that Vietnam still has many beautiful scenes to please people.

If you plan to visit Ha Giang, don't miss the opportunity to explore these wonderful natural wonders and set yourself on attractive journeys with Vietnam Typical Tours

Travelling to Ban Gioc waterfall and feel the complete beauty of Vietnamese nature

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Sat, 04 May 2019 08:51:00 +0000

Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights. It also marks the border of Vietnam and China, where we can see another country right in front of our eyes. Some people say you won’t be able to feel the complete beauty of Vietnamese nature if you haven’t taken on a Ban Gioc waterfall tour. Whether that’s true or not, let’s find out.

Ban Gioc waterfall – the true pulchritude of Vietnamese nature

Located in the northeastern province of Cao Bang, the falls are 30 metres high and 300 metres across, making Ban Gioc the widest (but not the highest) waterfall in the country. The falls occur on the Quay Son River, a beautiful jade-blue body of water flowing from China through a pastoral landscape of rice fields and bamboo groves surrounded by limestone pinnacles.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

With a charming natural beauty that perfectly blends in with the peaceful vibe of the countryside, this place has been recognized as a National Landscape since 1997. In recent years, Ban Gioc waterfall has been increasingly attracting many domestic and foreign tourists to stop by. The place soon becomes precious jewelry of Vietnamese tourism, and no one can leave Ban Gioc waterfall without feeling relaxed, refreshing and happier than ever.

But if you’re only visiting Ban Gioc waterfall, your vacation won’t be that exciting. Around this beautiful watery landscapes are many more fascinating destinations that charmed the curiosity of many international travelers. Those tourist attractions not only satisfy visitor’s desire to discover but also help them to understand more about Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and lifestyle of local people.

"You can do all the things above with Ba Be lake & Ban Gioc Waterfall 3 days tour! If you don’t believe, then try to check it out. Our Ban Gioc waterfall tour won’t let you down!

Join Ba Be lake & Ban Gioc Waterfall 3 days tour to discover the beautiful countryside of Vietnam

Not only discover Ban Gioc waterfall but also discover a lot of attractions around it. Starting from Hanoi, the tour will give you the best time of your life!

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Before coming to Ban Gioc waterfall in Cao Bang province, you will visit Be Be Lake - Vietnam's largest freshwater lake. Explore the peaceful landscape, take a boat, go hiking and find out the unique lifestyle of ethnic minorities here. After learning some interesting facts about the rich culture of major hill tribes settled in Vietnam, you will be led to Cao Bang Province.

The Cao Bang tour gives you the opportunity to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine, especially local dishes that were cooked and served by ethnic minority communities including the Tay, Nung, Dzao and Hmong. There’s no better place to study the ingredients, how to cook the food, how to serve and eat of a Vietnamese dish than in their own house. That’s right, on your first night in Cao Bang, you will have the chance to have dinner in the ethnic community’s house! That will be a one-of-a-kind experience that you hardly have twice in your life.

And of course, Ban Gioc waterfall cannot be left out of the list. On the second day of this Cao Bang tour will be the highlight of the trip. You can spend a whole morning playing and wandering around in the cool, fresh and beautiful water of the waterfall. Remember to bring your camera, you won’t get enough of the beauty with just your two eyes. Some pictures of the landscape will definitely help you to remember sweet memories and make your friends jealous!

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Beside the magnificent waterfall, there are two more destinations that most tourists can’t miss out when visiting Cao Bang Province. Nguom Ngao cave and Pac Bo cave definitely are the two destinations that will blow your mind! The beauty of those caves can’t be described by words, so you absolutely have to give those places a chance.

Not stopping there, this Ba Be lake & Ban gioc waterfall 3 days tours also give you the chance to study about Vietnamese history and nature, by exploring the great president Ho Chi Minh – where he mastermind the 1954 independence from French colonialists, and Ba Be Lakes National Park, where the peaceful, quiet environment of the wild nature are kept and preserved for years.

If you’re excited about giving Ba Be Lake & Ban Gioc Waterfall 3 days Tour a chance, don’t hesitate to check out for more information HERE and book yourself a trip right now!

The Perfect Destination For Exploring Sapa's Culture

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Fri, 03 May 2019 04:21:00 +0000

If you are a favorite and passionate about learning new cultures, Sapa of Vietnam is a hidden number worth exploring.

Located in the mountainous Lao Cai province about 350km northwest of Hanoi, Sapa is a great travel tip and gives you a great chance to see Vietnam’s colourful ethnic minorities and explore some of its most spectacular scenery. For a visit in summer try to go midweek, because the town can be very busy at weekends.

How can you learn about a city’s cultural? That’s right, by visiting the local people and see how they live! There’s no greater lesson than experience it by yourself. Here in Sapa lays such huge and wonderful villages of the local people that will surely amaze you.

1. Cat Cat Village – the most famous village in Sapa

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Cat Cat is the most popular ethnic village and the most visited tourists. It's just only 3 km from Sapa town. This is a small village of the Black H'mong ethnic community.

Besides beautiful scenery with terraced fields and Muong Hoa streams. Coming to Cat Cat, you will be led down a giant staircase that leads to the magnificent waterfall called Tien Sa Waterfall. Cat Cat village was built more infrastructure for tourism. Such as small streets paved with stone through the village center, exhibits, and artifacts. labor products of the people, conservation of handicrafts.

Along the staircase, you will be welcomed with various souvenirs shops sold by the H’mong people. And at the end of the staircase, you’ll come to a wide road which surrounded by wonderful natural and fresh cool air. You can hire an H’mong dress, put them on and begin your journey in Cat Cat village – it’ll definitely be an unforgettable experience.

2. Ta Phin - Sapa’s signature handicraft village

Photo by collect on the internet

From Sapa town about 14 km toward Lao Cai city. Ta Phin village is home of Red Dao ethnic group. Ta Phin is located in a four-sided valley, but quite wide and flat.

This place is famous for bath salts that make up the brand "bath medicine leaf Red Dao." When walking around the town of Sapa. You will find many massage parlors with bathtubs of Red Dao.

Ta Phin village is always crowded with women wearing traditional clothes, holding colorful reels of thread and cloths. They mostly sew to earn a living, so in this wonderful village, you can find distinctively hand-made brocades made by ethnic people such as bags, scarfs, purses, skirts, and even backpacks and coats. All these products are beautiful in bright colors and various patterns.

3. Lao Chai village in Sapa

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

From Sapa town to the southwest about 9 km will come to Lao Chai village. This is a village of H'mong people, with houses interwoven with terraced fields, you will witness a great view of the whole village, offering the marvelous panorama of the village, backed by high mountains and facing the river.

The people living in Lao Chai village are quite friendly, they will allow you to join them in meals, and let you ask them about their cultures and customs.

4. Ta Van village in Sapa

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Passing Lao Chai village 3 km you will come to Ta Van village. Where Giay ethnic communities live. Located in the valley with streams flowing Muong Hoa, terraces rice field here is very beautiful. Residents are mainly the H’Mong ethnic, Giay, and Red Dao… with approximately 1000 people.

Visitors who come to Ta Van village will have to go past a small and narrow road, surrounded by fertile terraced fields which adorns by the green of corn and rice. Growing rice is the major profession of the Giay. Local people also produce instruments and engraved silver.

Ta Van is the strongest homestay service development. Local people live in both stilted houses and common houses with a solemn central part which is served as a place for ancestor altar and guest reception. Visitors will be overwhelmed by the beautiful and simple houses there. There are many homestay rentals in Sapa. Visiting Ta Van, tourists can also stop for lunch at local restaurants.

5. Y linh Ho

Photo by collect on the internet

Y Linh Ho is a small commune composed by a dozen of small hamlets scattering on the very tough mountain terrain with high and steep mountains. The village is famous for its magnificent valley, lying between majestic mountains, as well as other sceneries of the area.

Often not mentioned much, but the Y Linh Ho is very suitable for trekking tours. Standing on the southern edge of the town of Sapa, looking down at the foot of the Y Linh Ho village. Feeling very close but to go down very far due to the difference in topography, and the road to the village is difficult to go.

You will have a chance to visit wooden and bamboo houses of local people, the cool and fresh river and valley to Lao Chai village where the H’mong also live, maybe have a picnic or even a swim if the weather is good enough.

Is that interesting enough for a trip yet? Discover unique culture through our SAPA TOURS and book one for yourself! You definitely can't miss out a chance to explore one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam.

After Halong Bay Cruise Trip, Where is the next destination?

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 02 May 2019 07:30:00 +0000

Magnificent Halong Bay – UNESCO World Heritage site has charmed many people before, during and after their visit to this wonderland. But maybe because of its dreamlike beauty, travelers sometimes feel being let down when visiting other places. Well, don’t worry, Vietnam has many to offer. Right here, we will introduce to you some places you might need to put on your plan after Halong Bay.

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Sa Pa Town is located in Lao Cai Province, north-west Vietnam, and 350 km north-west of Hanoi city, close to the border with China. Sapa is one of Vietnam’s most famous and most northern trekking destinations. Sapa Town is famous both for its fine, rugged scenery and for its rich cultural diversity. French used to consider Sapa as Summer Capital of Northern Vietnam in the early decades of the 20th century. Its naturally gifted beauty keeps attracting more and more people to spend their vacation there since then. Particularly, the place is the foremost choice for after Halong Bay Cruise Trip!

All in northern Vietnam and the center is Hanoi city. The selection of Sapa as the next destination after Halong Bay is an option most tourists make when traveling north of Vietnam.

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Overlooking a beautiful valley, with lofty mountains towering over the town on all sides, the spectacular scenery that surrounds Sapa includes cascading rice terraces that spill down the mountains like a patchwork quilt offering great opportunities for photos of a lifetime.

Sapa is highly recommended for those who plan to travel to Vietnam. It is easy to combine Sapa with Halong Bay for a long-term tours package in Vietnam. Depending on the time you spend with Northern Vietnam to have a perfect exploration plan. If you are too stuck for choosing destinations in northern Vietnam, please refer to our suggested options:

So that’s our suggestions for you. And as suggestion always does, nothing is obliged. If you want, you could visit anywhere you prefer. Because, if there’s a will there’s a way.

Behind The Ha Giang Trekking Tours 5 Days

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 12:27:00 +0000

Everyone talks about Sapa and its beautiful nature, but not many know the beauty of Ha Giang.

Ha Giang is Vietnam’s most northern province known as Vietnam’s final frontier. It is one of the fascinating places in Vietnam. This remote and mysterious province is a showcase of incredible mountain landscapes, limestone walls, roaring rivers, smiling people and hundreds of kids.

Ha Giang has been forgotten in time, and just recently it has been slowly becoming popular among tourists. So, if you want to travel back in time, pack your stuff and arrive as soon as possible – before tourism leaves its scars.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

You can explore Ha Giang by many transportations, such as cars, bicycles... But lately there has been a trend of hanging in Ha Giang by trekking, because trekking can not only give you the fullest experience in this beautiful city but also help you relax, refresh your mind, improve your strength and give you the chance to completely drown in the peaceful atmosphere of the lovely countryside. But why is the tour so loved, and what is the truth behind it that has been hiding?

What is The Truth Untold?

Do you know the differences between traveling by car and trekking? Instead of watching everything through a glass window, trekking gives you the opportunity to look at all beautiful places with your own eyes, feel the air with your own skin, and touch everything you want with your bare hands.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Trekking in Ha Giang gives you the best lesson about Vietnamese society

Many people say trekking is one of the best ways to learn about a place’s culture and daily lifestyle. And guess what, that’s so true! Ha Giang trekking tour 5 days will lead you through many rice fields as well as villages of local people. Now you can watch them work and grow crops directly, not from any video clips online or some blurry pictures!

Not only that, Ha Giang trekking tour also brings you to meet many Vietnamese ethnic minority communities, such as Lo Lo, Dao, H’mong, Giay... You will learn their various custom, their traditional food, clothes, visit their villages and houses, study how they work to earn a living... You will even spend a night at a Dzao house too! What can be cooler than that?

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Ha Giangs trekking tour 5 day help you mingle with nature

Absolutely right! Because Ha Giang Trekking tour not only leads you through rice fields but also bring you through long, deep and mystery alleys, where you can feel the majestic and wild vibe of nature.

This amazing Ha Giang trekking tour even bring you to the most impressive mountains, most mighty limestone peaks, stone forests, and canyons! Remember to charge your camera before going, because if you don’t, you will be regret! And some beautiful rivers also can’t be missed from the list, right? Not the biggest, but the most peaceful and poetic rivers are waiting for you in this trekking trip!

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Finally, trekking in Ha Giang in 5 days are tiring, right?

Maybe, but also has the perfect solution to solve the problem! Between trekking schedules, the tour is also designed so tourists can take a break and eat every time they need. It may be tiring at first, but slowly, your body will get used to the activities, and all you feel is joy and excitement.

On other hands, this Ha Giang 5 days trekking tour is a perfect chance for you to work out and improve your body strength! Daily life doesn’t give people much time to exercise, due to heavy workload. So why don’t you use this chance to be active a bit? Besides, some cool fresh air will only do you more good than harm.

What are you waiting for without exploring >> Ha Giang Trekking Tours 5 Days

Ha Giang Fascinated Visitors By The Pristine Beauty Of The Rocky Highlands

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:27:00 +0000

Ha Giang still retains its pristine scenery that has stood the ravages of time for the last 20 years with spectacular geography and a diverse culture of many ethnic minorities. Here lie the most beautiful terraced rice fields, opening up as you traverse the mountainous roads. On the way to exploring Ha Giang you will also be stopping by many ethnic villages with unique cultures and lifestyles.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

As a whole, you will experience a lot of fantastic mountainous scenery, with breathtaking hills and valleys, and the most beautiful place that should be on your list is the Dong Van Karst Global Geopark, representing 400 million years of geographic transformations – rivaling the Trang An Complex of Ninh Binh. You should consider getting to Hoang Su Phi village for the world’s most surreal landscape of rice paddies also. As you start to finish conquering Dong Van plateau, one last exciting destination is the Lung Cu peak with the beautiful flag of Vietnam riding the winds, overlooking the border to China.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Ha Giang stands out with steep slopes,seemingly barren highland lands make visitors fascinated by the same high mountains, terraced fields when stained with ripe rice, when filling summer sunshine. Also here, visitors have the opportunity to see the day and night life still silently, persistent and enduring. It is a picture of a baby sleeping behind his mother on the way to the field, a quiet moment of an old man in front of an ancient house, a bustling laugh of children on the road ...

If the natural scenery of Ha Giang makes people overwhelmed, the rhythm of life here is simple and lyrical, making anyone come to feel free to leave.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

The best way to discover and feel Ha Giang's pristine beauty is trekking. Instead of watching everything through a glass window, trekking gives you the opportunity to look at all beautiful places with your own eyes, feel the air with your own skin, and touch everything you want with your bare hands. And trekking with Vietnam Typical Tours, you can do all of the things above in all tourists attractions in Ha Giang, without missing a single place.

>> The best Ha Giang Trekking Itineary: Ha Giang Trekking Tours 5 Days

What to do in Hanoi for 4 days?

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 11:51:00 +0000

You love the cultural heritage, love the ancient beauty, passionate about discovering delicious food and learning about a diverse and rich culture. You decide to choose Hanoi, Vietnam as the stopover for the next vacation.

Making an Hanoi 4 days itinerary is definitely a pain in the neck. Today we will create your perfect itinerary - so you can make the most out of your time with an itinerary 4 days in Hanoi.

Within Hanoi, you only need 2 days to discover the city. The other two days you can spend discover the suburb of Hanoi where also have a lot of things to do and see for Hanoi day trip.

Day 1: Hanoi City Tour – Old Quarter, French Quarter, Water Puppet Show

Any Hanoi City Tour would take you the most highlighted Hanoi attractions. We suggest you to book a full day Hanoi city tour with a water puppet show included in the evening.

Morning

Photo by falco

1. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum

Ho Chi Minh is the most influential and beloved politician in Vietnam history. Come to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum to not only learn more about Ho Chi Minh and the affection Vietnamese people have shown him but also appreciate the beautiful architecture of the complex.

Location: 25 Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Opening days: Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun

Opening hours: morning from 8:00AM – 12:00, afternoon from 14:00 to 16:30

Admission: 40,000VND

Dress code: avoid wearing shorts, mini-skirts, sleeveless shirts, tank tops and the like

2. Take a look at one Pillar Pagoda

One-pillar pagoda is the centerpiece of Vietnamese traditional architecture style. The work is absolutely singular and very iconic, related closely with history and legends at the same time. You shouldn’t miss visiting this place.

You can visit the pagoda when visit Ho Chi Minh complex.

Photo by 9636137

3. Enjoy the view of West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda

West Lake is the largest lake in Hanoi, offering not only spectacular sunset views but also a lot beautiful religious monuments. Tran Quoc, built 1500 years ago, has a significance role in the religious and spiritual life of Hanoian people.

Location: Thanh Nien Street

Admission: free entrance

Opening hours: 11:00 – 11:30 & 13:00 – 16:00 (Mon – Sat); 7:00 – 16:00 (Sun and holidays)

Afternoon

4. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Hoan Kiem Lake or Sword Lake and Ngoc Son Temple together is the most well-known attraction in Hanoi. One reason for that is the close location of the complex to Hanoi Old Quarter. The lake is such a change of landscape after a long hour on the busy roads of Hanoi.

Ngoc Son temple and The Huc Bridge create a solemn sight on the middle of the green lake. The red bridge is exceptionally beautiful at night.

Ngoc Son temple’s admission: 20,000VND for foreigners

Opening hours: daily, 7:30 – 17:00

Dress code: no miniskirts or shorts

5. Discover Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter is the heart of the capital city, also the city’s biggest travel hub. This is the place everything happens. Originally, Old Quarter was the trading center of the whole country, with at least 36 crafts guilds assembled.

To this day, Old Quarter still retains its traditional traits in some corner, yet developed into a vibrant, modern and exciting hub with a lot of things to do and enjoy.

Photo by Gryffindor

6. If you have time, enjoy a water puppet show

Water puppet is one of the oldest folklore art form in Vietnamese culture. It’s well reserved and promoted so you can easily watch. Artisans stand in the waist-deep water using bamboo sticks to control the water puppetry movements. The performances often tell folklore stories and mythical legends of Vietnamese people. If you’re going with kids, you children would love it so much. This is also the top activities in Hanoi on rainy days.

Day 2: Explore Hanoi

What else we should visit today?

Morning

1. Visit St.Joseph Cathedral

If you’re interested in French architecture then you must visit St.Joseph Cathedral.

To continue our itinerary, go to Nha Chung Street. St.Joseph Cathedral is located at No 40 of Nha Chung Street, next to Hang Trong garden. You should visit the cathedral in morning since it’s usually closed by noon.

Being one of the oldest historical relic of Hanoi—still—St.Joseph Cathedral has the ancient beauty of Hanoi. St. Joseph Catheral has been existed for more than 3 centuries, witness all the change of Hanoi.

The cathedral was designed according to Gothic style (Renaissance) —resembles Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral with high and curvy arch.

Though having an ancient and mysterious on the outside—once you step into the cathedral, you will be surprised by the magnificent and glorious look inside the cathedral.

Now it’s time to grab some food.

Photo by Yun Huang Yong

2. Eat local food: Cha ca (fish meatball)

There are many Cha ca restaurant in Hanoi, mostly from the Old Quarter. One of the best and most popular cha ca restaurant is Cha Ca La Vong at No 14 Cha Ca street.

Cha ca is the traditional food that everyone living in Hanoi Old Quarter knows about. Cha ca in Hanoi is different from cha ca in other places. Cha ca Hanoi is made by filtering the best flesh of the fish, then deep fry to make it crispy.

After that, you can eat cha ca with basil, cumin and other spices. It can be served with special shrimp sauce or fish sauce with peanuts on top.

Afternoon

3. Visit Museum of Fine art

Go to No 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street. The museum opens from 8:30 am—5:00 pm. The ticket price is 10.000 VND (US$0.4)

Then Museum of Fine Art is a must-see place for people who are into the art on the itinerary to explore Hanoi. Vietnam Museum of Fine Art was built in the 30s of 20th century as a place for daughters of French officers to live in.

Now it is the place to save the cultural and artistic value of Vietnam. Here in the museum, you can see the statues from the 16th century, exhibits from the 17th century and painting from the 20th century.

Every single exhibits is cherished and arranged beautifully to help the audience taste the best of artistic value.

The best thing you can see national treasure like the statue of Buddha with 327cm of height, paintings from famous painters like To Ngoc Van, Nguyen Sang.

Photo by chuongnguyen1989

4. Visit Temple of Literature

Which is the first university in Vietnam? If you want to the cultural signature of Vietnam then you have to go to Temple of Literature.

Go to 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street. The ticket price will be 30.000 VND (US$ 1.3).

The opening time is:

7:30 – 18:00 from Monday to Friday

8:00 – 21:00 from Saturday to Sunday.

For dress code, no shorts and miniskirts.

Temple of Literature in Hanoi is not only a historical place representing the long progress of Vietnamese culture. It made a big contribution on both Confucian civilization in Vietnam and human culture in the world also.

5. Eat Local Food: Banh My (vietnamese sandwich)

For the best banh my, you should try Banh My Ngon at no 49 Thanh Street. The price is 25.000 VND (US$ 1.1)/piece.

Banh My (Vietnamese sandwich) is considered as one of the most delicious sandwiches in the world. Banh my is delicious and diverse combination of pork, pate and veggies, stuffed into a crunchy baguette.

Other combination of banh my can have head cheese, pork sausage, cucumber and vegetables.

At Night

6. Eat street food at Hang Buom

Walking through the Old Quarter and enjoy the street food has now become the habits of Hanoi people on the weekend. Go through the night market, there are many kinds of traditional food like shells meat ball, sticky rice with grilled bird, grilled meat ball, grilled meat, che,….

Che and juice are the best choice for walking and enjoying at the same time. You would have plenty of time on 4 days itinerary in Hanoi, so take your time to feel the atmosphere here.

Day 3: Beyond Hanoi

Morning

Photo by Richard Mortel

1. Visit Trang An – Bai Dinh complex

Since you get plenty of time with the 4 days itinerary, why don’t we go further? If you want to see the wonder of Vietnam then you have to see Trang An complex.

You should also arrive early at 5 or 6 in the morning to have more time to spend here—since Ninh Binh is 85 km from Hanoi it would take 2-3 hours to get there.

Once you get to Ninh Binh, you can use taxi or xe om to get to Trang An.

When you get there it’s time to…

With the natural beauty mixed with cultural and historical beauty, Trang an was listed as important heritage of Vietnam and recognized an world heritage by UNESCO in 2014.

The whole place is a beauty of glorious mountains and lengthy rivers connecting with caves—bringing the extraordinary beauty of the scenery.

Coming here, you can not help but absorbing the pure and subtle beauty of nature with the historical value from the mountain, the river, the cave and the jungles.

2. Visit Trang An grottoes

The cruise will take about 3-4 hours and you should also bring along sunscreen and hats. The best time to start the cruise is 8AM

If you want to stand up to take some picture during the cruise, be sure to ask the guide first—since it can be dangerous for people on the boat.

It has one of the most breath-taking grottoes in the world. Trang an is famous for having many stalactites which make the atmostphere breezing inside the cave.

It would be one of a kind experience when you can sit on the boat—seeing all kinds of moss and algae under the water and sense the freshness and purity of the environment.

The journey through unique caves like Sang cave, Seo cave, Dark cave, Drunk cave will be an amazing exploration.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

3. Eat burned rice and goat meat

People often say that “if you come here without eating burned rice and goat meat then you’ve never been to Ninh Binh.”

Goat meat in Ninh Binh is more delicious than other provinces for 2 things: The goat is raised on the mountain, eat many kinds of leaves and herbs - making the flesh more firm. The second is the special method of cooking.

Especially the stir fry goat meat—with the crunchiness and sweetness of the meat—when you eat with other kinds of herbs like basil, cumin it would be extremely delicious.

Along with goat meat, burned rice has become the delicacy of Ninh Binh. If you come here without trying burned rice with goat meat soup then it would be a waste.

Ninh Binh burned rice is mention by many people because of its flavor and crunchiness. Burned rice from Huong Mai is considered the most delicious burned rice in Ninh Binh.

These food you hardly get in another places with the same taste.

Afternoon

4. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda

On this 4 days itinerary, we should not miss Bai Dinh Pagoda. Bai Dinh Pagoda has the most records in Asia and Vietnam—you will be amazed with the numbers of statues and the size of the pagoda.

You should must formal clothing before coming into the pagoda. Also bring along water and snacks because the pagoda is very big.

Day 4: Back to Hanoi

Your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi has one day left. Where should we go now?

Morning

1. Visit Le Mat Snake Village

Coming to Le Mat Snake Village, you will see a lot of snakes. Le Mat village is located in Long Bien District—it’s 9.7km from Hanoi.

Now in the village there are hundreds of household raising snakes, dozens of snake restaurant and a lot of cultural events about snakes being held annually.

The snakes are brought to the village, tamed and familiarized and now become close like a pet in the household. Le Mat is considered the Snake trading center in the North, also the most popular snake village of Vietnam.

Tourists coming to Le Mat not only able to visit the snake farm but also touch the non-venomous snakes. You can also have the chance to see on your own eyes the chefs cooking a snake. The kind of snake that people enjoy the most here is Cobra.

All meals made of snakes are amazing, from snake heart, snake blood, to snake soup, snake sticky rice and stewed snakes. Many people coming to Le Mat might feel shocked at first but later on find it extremely interesting.

Afternoon

Photo by Hưng Giang

2. Eat Che and Banh Troi.

Do you have a sweet tooth?

When we talk about traditional Che, nowhere can serve better Che than Che Ba Thin. Not having the various options like other che—rather sticking with the traditional recipe of Northern Vietnam—Che Ba Thin can still keep the traditional taste of Che.

Traditional che with simply recipe of green and black beans of Northern Vietnam.

3. Buy some souvenirs

Want to keep some memory of Hanoi on this special 4 days itinerary? Want to bring some gifts to friends and family?

There are a lot of things you can buy in the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter has everything for you to buy - many of which contain traditional value of Hanoi.

You can buy Non La (asian conical hat). Non la is the familiar image of Vietnamese women though being simple and subtle but also very elegant. Non La can not also be used as a head cover—it also the symbol of Vietnamese farmer. Non La can be a unique gift and souvenirs from Vietnam.

So that’s the perfect 4 days itinerary in Hanoi. There are a lot of things you can do in Hanoi with an itinerary 4 days. Now it’s time to get going. An exciting journey is right ahead.

Vietnam shines in RCI’s list of great eco-friendly destinations for World Earth Day

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 04:04:00 +0000

Eco-tourism and travel have been steadily rising in popularity, and for great reasons.

Vietnam has been named among great eco-friendly destinations for you to consider on this World Earth Day, according to a list released by RCI, a world of vacation exchange and travel opportunity to create a lifetime of memories.

Photo by Ekrem Canli

Thanks to its sunny climates, rich culture, exotic foods and very affordable prices, is it any surprise Vietnam is such a hot spot to visit right now. And this county isn’t just a pretty face; its protected national parks, incredible coral reefs and one of the largest lagoons in the world, make it an eco-tourism gold mine, according to RCI.

Best Sapa Biking Tour, Best Ha Giant Trekking Tour, Cao Son Eco-adventure, and Ba Be National Park Tour and Mekong Biking tour are some of the incredible eco activities Vietnam has on offer. During your trip in Vietnam, choose to stay with an amazing offering by RCI, Coco Ocean Resort, with its prime location near the beautiful seaside city, you can walk to the beach and take advantage of living amidst nature.

British Columbia in Canada tops the list, followed by Uruguay, Switzerland, Vietnam, and Costa Rica in Central America.

Earlier, Vietnam has been predicted to lead Asia Pacific destinations in terms of average annual growth rate over the next five years, according to the just-released Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2019 - 2023 report.

5 Reasons To Spend Time At A Homestay In Sapa

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 13:39:00 +0000

Boarding a plane for Sapa, Vietnam is an adventure in itself, but in our experience, time at a homestay beyond well-trodden tourist trails remain a treasured highlight.

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Other than staying in a traditional hotel, staying with locals in a village homestay is worth considering things to do in Sapa if you want a real local experience. This will be an extensively different and unique experience as ethnic people carry a significantly special and distinctive culture.

5 top reasons to spend a night or two at a homestay in Sapa

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

1. Get to know the locals

Each of Sapa’s ethnic groups is unique and often very different to the majority Kinh Vietnamese. Staying with a family of any ethnicity gives you an insight into their daily life; ethnic minorities also have their own languages and traditions. Many homestays offer a program of cultural activities for guests, ranging as remedial herbal baths. Even more rewarding are the glimpses into local culture you get through unstructured interactions, like shopping at a local market, or flipping through a family album. In Sapa, you'll often find homestay rooms are decorated with gorgeous traditional textiles and costumes.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

2. Home cooked foods

Few things beat a home cooked meal. In fact, food is often considered a language of love; we cook for those we love and share meals with those important to us. Meal sharing at a local’s home has now become a popular option amongst travelers who are looking for a more personal experience. If you’re staying at a homestay though, you can skip the formalities because the hosts will be the one preparing the meals! If you’re up for it, try offering to help them prepare the food or ask them to teach you their recipes. This will help strengthen your friendship and make the experience even more extraordinary. And, of course, you will learn some delicious recipes to take home!

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

3. Give back to the community

There should always be a fair exchange when travelling; you’ve come a long way to appreciate a country, and its residents are happy to share it with you. Keep this relationship a sustainable one by supporting small communities rather than large corporations.

As well as income for the people or community you stay with, help with daily tasks is not only a valuable contribution, but promises to be a memorable experience.

4. Escape modern life

Many of us spend our lives behind a screen, and while Wi-Fi in Vietnam is unlikely to meet speeds you’re used to at home, you will be able to upload the odd photograph to social media while staying in cities. Homestays in rural areas offer a break from the trappings of modern life; feel your shoulders relax as you set aside your phone and tourist tick-list to join the gentle rhythm of life in the village.

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

5. See more of the countryside

A village can be a small dot against staggering mountains or brilliant golden terraced fields in Sapa. A night or two at a homestay gives you the opportunity to spend quality time in these beautiful surroundings beyond the constraints of a day trip. Your homestay hosts or a local guide may even show you to some hidden highlights.

A homestay experience might feel like an adventurous leap, but once you’ve settled in to your new room, eaten a fresh meal and had a sip or two of local rice wine, it might be a struggle to leave!

Accumulate memorable experiences in your life with the best Sapa homestay tours:
sapatoursfromhanoi.com/tour-category/sapa-tours/sapa-homestay-tours/

5 Things That Make Northern Vietnam A Suitable Destination For Trekking

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 12:31:00 +0000

Famous for majestic mountains, Vietnam is a great destination for trekking lovers.

The northern region of Vietnam is a land of remarkable scenery with high rolling mountains, dramatically steep valleys and magnificent rice paddies creating a patchwork of contours. It's here you'll find endless opportunities to enjoy a host of trekking opportunities from easy walks along well-trodden paths to strenuous treks over the course of a couple of days.

5 things that make northern Vietnam a suitable destination for trekking

Photo by Ves Pa

1. Beautiful sceneries

Northern Vietnam landscape provides pedestrians with unique experiences. This is where you can hike through highland valleys, along terraced rice paddies and underneath towering limestone mountain ranges, or or explore the magical natural caves. Almost everything you will see when you go into the some of favorite areas for trekking in northern Vietnam. Northern Vietnam has also 2 geoparks: Dong Van Kast Global Geopark and Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark writen in UNESCO. Below this article you will find maps of the national parks in Northern Vietnam.

2. The best weather for trekking in Vietnam

The best time to trek in Northern Vietnam are the months of milder tempernatures, from late September to November and again in March and April. The winters in the Northern Vietnam, especially in January and February, can get colder than you might expect, especially in the mountainous regions, with tempernatures reaching 12-15oC. The humidity is high all-year at 60-80%, making winters cold and wet and summer hot and humid. During the summer, the average temperatures is around 30 - 35oC. The rain season lasts from late May to late September, and white rains can be quite heavy, the rain is not consistent and does not usually ruin a hikking tour. You should not recommended to hike in the hot and rainy season.

3. Some notes for planning trekking in Northern Vietnam

To get a perfect trip to North Vietnam you need to have a specific and detailed plan before starting your journey. Some notes you need to know when planning.

- Which places you want to see (mountains, national park, ethnic minorities, reserves, ...)

- How long you will be travelling? (based on the time you spend on trekking in northern Vietnam to choose the most suitable street)

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

4. What to Bring When Trekking in Northern Vietnam

The weather and hiking typography in Vietnam are different from other countries. So even if you’re an experienced hiker, it’s essential to know what to bring. And here are the things that should come along with you:

- Waterproof clothes: Ironically speaking, Vietnam has only two seasons: rainy season and rainier season. With this kind of weather, remember to bring waterproof clothes, or else it will cause you discomfort.

- Anti-blister socks: These are super important when you hike in the deep forest. If you can’t find these socks, you can use blister-preventing lubricants instead. In Vietnam, there is a gel called D.E.P (Dietyl Phtalat) used to eliminate blisters.

- Warm-quality hiking boots. cotton clothes.

- Flashlight/headlamp.

- Mosquito repellent, sunscreen.

- At least something from the medicine cabinet, toilet paper.

- Tent + warm sleep bag (longer hikes).

- Very suitable is also GPS navigation (google maps + mobiphone)

But be careful, some trekking routes and roads in Northern Vietnam are not well marked. In this case, you'd better to hire a local guide and go in a group. This local travel guide can show you come other interesting places that you will not find on the map and give mỏe information about the area.

5. Best Places for Trekking in Northern Vietnam

Photo by Sapa Tours From Hanoi

Sapa

- Is one of the most spectacular scenery of the mountain range in the Northwest of Vietnam suitable for trekking

- Start point for trekking to Fansipan - the roof of Indochina with the height of 3143m.

- Where there are 5 ethnic minority groups living: Hmong, Red Dao, Xa Pho, Tay and Giay. Experiencing the daily life and cultural values of the highland ethnic minorities.

- Muong Hoa valley, villages and Hoang Lien Son mountain with beautiful terraced fields.

- Homestay accommodation and local residential.

- Many cultural destinations, waterfalls and unique highland markets.

Mai Chau

- Is a lowland, peaceful countryside suitable for gentle trekking

- Unique culture of white and black Thai ethnic minorities

- In The vicinity of many villages that can be visited (Van Mai, Pieng ve, Dong Bang, ...)

- Favorite Pu Luong Nature Reserve and Pu Hu, a huge Hoa Binh lake.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

- One of the newest parks in Vietnam, listed as a park in 1999

- Ideal place for bird watching

- The possibility to use homestay accommodation of ethnic population (white Thais)

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Ha Giang

- Is one of the most beautiful places in northern Vietnam

- The villages with ethnic minorities people (Hmong, Tay, Dao, Nung, Lo Lo, Giay, Pu Peo)

- The most beautiful places: Dong Van Karst Global Geopark, Ma Pi Leng pass, ...

- Hoang Su Phi is well-known for the breathtaking scenery of its marvelous terraced fields.

Cao Bang

- Ban Gioc Waterfalls are without a doubt the number one attraction in Cao Bang

- Ethnic minorities tay, Nung, Dao and Hmong

- The most popular hikes are in Quang Hoa district, in the eastern area of Cao Bang

Cuc Phuong National Park

- The oldest National park in Vietnam, 130 km sourth of Hanoi

- There are diverse system of fauna and flora, including endangered species

- Many accessible caves

- The possibility of kayaking (Mac Lake, Quang Yen Lake)

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Cat Ba National Park

- Cat Ba is a grear place for trekking, consists of 366 islands, southeastern adge of Halong bay

- With jungle clad limestone karsts that are home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna, including the rarest primate species in the world: the Golden Headed Langur

- Is a natural ecosystem of sea and land

- Coral reefs, mangroves, lagoons, beaches, caves, limstone karst.

Ba Be National Park

- The ethnic villages and minorities people, mostly Dao and Tay

- Homestay accommodation with local residential

- Waterfall, rivers, caves and muontains

- Home to 330 kinds of butterflies, 550 plant and 300 animal species

If you’re looking for excellent trekking, it can be easy to get lost in all the choices and options in Northern Vietnam. We here at Vietnam Typical Tours can happily solve this problem for you, as booking your trekking in Northern Vietnam through us ensures that you only get the best of the best in terms of sights, activities and authentic experiences.

What are the ingredients in the world's best Bread in Vietnam?

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Sat, 20 Apr 2019 04:56:00 +0000

The BBC's gastronomic page once had the article "The World's Best Vietnamese Bread?" Which recorded the author's feelings when coming to Vietnam and enjoying this dish. And not only the BBC, in many world-famous culinary magazines, Vietnamese bread is considered a dish that cannot be missed when coming to Vietnam, even its popularity is just behind Pho.

So, is there anything special that makes the simple Bread like other breads in the world of Vietnam famous all over the world? Let's with us discover the mysteries hidden in that bread.

Photo by chrisandhilleary

The origin of the Vietnamese bread

The Banh Mi sandwich gets its origin from the French influence on Indochina. The baguette was introduced by the French, but appropriated by the Vietnamese in the 1950s when they started calling it the bánh mì or wheat bread. The sandwich gained popularity around the world after the Vietnam War.

What Makes for the Best Vietnamese Banh Mi?

The Banh Mi is an airy and crunchy French-style baguette, stuffed with an every varying combination of meats, vegetables, and sauces.

The traditional meats you find in Banh Mi are pork, pâté, and cured ham. Then, additional Banh Mi ingredients are a mélange of Vietnamese herbs and vegetables. Typically, the vegetables are coriander, cucumber, carrot, slices, radish and more depending on what part of the country you are in.

Photo by Gary Stevens

Where can you find the best Vietnamese Banh Mi?

Most of the provinces and cities can find Bread. however, in each region, each member will make a different bread with different ingredients suitable for indigenous people.

Here are some of the most sought-after destinations to enjoy the world's best bread

Hanoi Old Quarter

In Hanoi, it's easy to find a Banh Mi, across the streets of Hanoi's old quarter, there are lots of sidewalk strollers that provide Bread. However, not all bread is delicious, to make sure to choose a perfect meal with Mi cake, in Hanoi city tour, ask your tour guide, they will give you the best answer. Or you can refer to some of the following addresses:

Banh Mi Pho Hue: Address: No 118A, Hue Str. This could be the best banh mi sandwich in all of Hanoi, according to locals. The shop has been open since 1974, and the pate is especially delicious.

Banh Mi Moc: Address: 27 Han Thuyen Str, Hoan Kiem. There are lots of different pork rolls at this shop, and all of them are what banh mi dreams are made of.

Banh Mi 25: Address: 25 Hang Ca Str. Locals and tourists alike flock to this go-to banh mi shop. The baguettes here are always crunchy (which is not always the case), and the service is great too. It’s even got vegetarian options (just ask for “banh mi chay”).

Photo by @oopatoo

Hoi An ancient town

There are no questions about Hoi An Bread. “That’s a symphony in a sandwich” is how Anthony Bourdain described about Banh Mi Phuong - Hoi An. Hoi An ancient visit do not miss the rare opportunity to enjoy this dish.

Banh Mi Queen - Madam Khanh: Address: Tran Cao Van Str. This place is truly the stuff of legends. Locals say is should be on every “best banh mi” list ever. The owner, Mrs. Loc, has run this store for 30 years, and you can’t really go wrong. Locals say her banh mi perfectly captures the yin-yang taste of the banh mi: It’s sweet and salty, spicy but basic, and crunchy yet creamy — all at the same time. Fillings include pate, pork char siu, sausage, fried egg, homemade pickles, papaya, carrots, parsley, chili sauce, soy sauce, and — last but certainly not least — her secret sauce.

Banh Mi Phuong: Address: 2B Phan Chu Trinh Str. The late Anthony Bourdain recommended this spot, so you know right away that it’s going to be good (Canadian chef Cameron Stauch has praised it too). Run by a small family, the restaurant typically serves more than 1,000 banh mi every single day. But a word of caution: The word is out, so be prepared to queue up, as it’s usually busy.

Photo by collect on the internet

Ho Chi Minh city

Like Hanoi, there are many options in Ho Chi Minh, from humble food carts to high-end restaurants, but here are the some best spots to enjoy an amazing bánh mì.

Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: Address: 26 Le Thi Rieng Str, Pham Ngu Lao. If you ask someone for the best banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City, this will probably be where they send you. It’s very popular, likely because they absolutely pile on the fillings. Get ready for a feast: There are so many layers of pate, meat, veggies and cilantro, and the pickled daikon and carrots may just blow you away.

Banh Mi Tuan Map: Address 196 Pasteur, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam. Look for the yellow food cart out on the sidewalk, packed with heaps of fresh ingredients for the crowds of repeat customers to fawn over as they wait for their favorite dish. They serve the typical bánh mì—a take-away style baguette sandwich, with your choice of fillings - but for a different, more traditional take, try their sizzling hot plate.

Banh Mi 37 Nguyễn Trãi: Address 37 Nguyễn Trãi, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam. If you’re a meat eater, you have to try the grilled pork bánh mì at this spot. They grill the little meat patties next to the food cart, and the smell is enough to have you salivating as you watch them shovel ingredients into your baguette. This place is only open for dinner, though, so don’t show up expecting breakfast.

Whatever type you may eat you’re sure to have a moment of heaven from each bite into a well-stacked banh mi that is at once crunchy, soft, aromatic, spicy, salty, sour, sweet, and savory. Choose a holiday in Vietnam with Vietnam Typical Tours to have moments to remember with nature and enjoy special dishes.

Hanoi to Sapa: 5-Hour trekking through Muong Hoa valley and Ethnic Tribes

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Sat, 20 Apr 2019 02:20:00 +0000

Being famous for its rugged scenery and rich cultural diversity, Muong Hoa valley is host to many hill tribes, rice terraces and lush vegetation. Many ethnic minorities live in and around, Muong Hoa valley impresses visitors by breathtaking rice terraces, streams, rivers and mountains. It was breathtaking!

Established as a hill station by the French in 1922, the town of Sapa is quaint with boutiques, spas and trendy eateries. But it’s the Muong Hoa Valley between the town and the Tonkinese Alps that’s really why travelers come to the far northwest of Vietnam.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Get back to nature and learn about rural life on a 5-hour trek through the Muong Hoa Valley. Meet local tribes and get stunning views of the most amazing rice terraces in Vietnam.

The activities take place within 5 hours

Explore the traditional cultures of the ethnic people of the Muong Hoa Valley
See some of the ost beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam
Learn more about the Black Mong and Dzay tribes

The destination you will come across

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Cat Cat village

From the center of Sapa town to Cat Cat village is only 2km. This is the ancient Mongolian village preserving many traditional crafts such as flowering, linen weaving and fabricating jewelry. In particular, this place still retains a lot of unique customs that don’t exist, or no longer exist in other areas.

Y Linh Ho village

Y Linh Ho is a beautiful valley lying between mountains. The fresh air in the highland is really great for trekking. This is a small commune composed by a dozen of small hamlets scattering on the mountain. Y Linh Ho Village is home to the Black Mong. You can visit the H’mong people living in their wooden and bamboo houses.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Lao Chai village

Lao Chai Village where the black H’mong people are living is the beginning Muong Hoa valley. From a high point of the main road, great view of the whole village open wide to offer the marvelous panorama of the village, backed by high mountains and facing the river. Trekking to Lao Chai Village, you can enjoy the fresh air, see terraced fields, stream, visit and discover rich culture Hmong ethnic group. People here are quite hospitable so you will have a welcome feeling. You can interact them, learn about their culture and customs.

Ta Van village

Lying peacefully in the valley of Muong Hoa, Ta Van Village is home to H’Mong ethnic, Giay, and Red Dao… with approximately 1000 people. The road leads to Ta Van village is small and narrow. However, you can see a fertile terraced field which adorns by the green of rice and corn along two sides. Coming to Ta Van Village, you amazed at the simple beauty of ethnic houses.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

5 hours of trekking through Muong Hoa valley will take place in 2 days. On the first day, after departing from Hanoi to Sapa, you will have a trekking trip that takes about 2-3 hours through the Cat Cat village - Sapa's beautiful fairy, then returned to the hotel on the town to rest before the 3 - 4 hour trek on the next day.

Depart the second day, walk along the main road heading south for about 20 minutes. Enter the Muong Hoa Valley and visit the Y Linh Ho village of the Black Mong tribe to interact with the locals and experience their everyday life at the market.

Arrive in the village of Lao Chai and get spectacular views of some of the most beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam. Enjoy lunch near the river and taste the local produce of the Black Mong community. Next, trek to Ta Van village and visit the local houses to learn more about the traditional crafts of the minority people, such as weaving and rice cultivation.

Learn more about rural life and meet members of the Dzay tribe to contrast their customs and costumes with the Black Mong people. Take the bus back to the hotel in Sapa town and rest before leaving Sapa to Hanoi capital.

See the journey details at: http://sapatoursfromhanoi.com/tour/best-sapa-tour-2-days-1-night/

Tam Coc - Bich Dong: The Place Attracts Tourists To Ninh Binh

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 13:57:00 +0000

If Halong Bay is known to tourists by thousands of limestone mountains in the middle of the sea ands natural caves, Tam Coc - Bich Dong is known as "Halong on land".

Tam Coc - Bich Dong, a harmonious architectural ensemble has long attracted numerous tourists. Its beauty is wonderfully harmonious combination between the stunning caves, the charming waterways and the talent of the human, forming an inseparable unity.

Tam Coc - View from Mua Cave

Overview of Tam Coc - Bich Dong

Tam Coc - Bich Dong currently has a total area of 350.3 ha, located 7km away from Ninh Binh and about 100 km away from Ha Noi. The whole area is a complex including limestone caves and historic relics that have been retained from the Tran dynasty of Vietnam. It’s location is in Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu and Ninh Binh province. Tam Coc - Bich Dong consists of approximately 20 spectacular sightseeings with exciting activities like yachting, cycling and walking.

Tam Coc, which means "three caves", consists of Cả cave (the First cave), Hai cave (the Second cave), and Ba cave (the Third cave). All three are created by the Ngo Dong (Ngô Đồng) river that pierces through the mountain. The “Cả” cave is 127m in length, passing through a big mountain with many limestones in various forms; the mouth of cave’s width is over 20m. The second one is nearly 1km away from Ca cave with the length of 60m; and the ceiling of the cave has many strange stalactites. The third is 50m, being quite close to second cave; the ceiling is like a stone arch, and lower than the other two caves.

Tam Coc, Ninh Binh - Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

The best time visit to Tam Coc - Bich Dong

Depending on the individual plan, you can choose the time to travel Tam Coc Bich Dong accordingly, but there are a few timelines as follows you can refer to:

It is possible to go to Tam Coc Bich Dong about April, the weather is relatively dry now, there is no hot and humid, uncomfortable, less rainy weather so 2 hours of boat ride will not be something too uncomfortable.

From March 1-3 lunar year is Bai Dinh pagoda festival, you can combine the ceremony and explore Tam Coc Bich Dong on this occasion.

If you want to go to Hoa Lu, remember the 8th day of the 3rd lunar month every year, this is the time of the Truong Yen festival.

At the end of May and early June, there was a ripe rice crop on Tam Coc Bich Dong field, when the image of green rice fields mixed with golden rice fields created a picture with beautiful colors.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

What to do in Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Like Trang An, to see the most impressive sceneries of Tam Coc Bich Dong, you'll have to hire a boat. However, there're plenty of places nearby you can explore on foot or by bicycling.

Boat Routes:

Boat Wharf - Ngo Dong River - Tam Coc (3 caves)
Linh Coc Wharf - River Cave to Bich Dong
Thach Bich - Thung Nang Wetlands
Thung Nham Bird Garden Route

We will introduce you to the 2 most basic routes in Tam Coc:

1. Tam Coc Route: Boat Wharf - Ngo Dong River - Tam Coc (Three Caves) - Thai Vi Temple - Thien Huong Grotto

The trip starts from Tam Coc Wharf, takes you about 2 hours two-way. If you take the Tam Coc Route, the boat will start at the eastern boat wharf and follow the waterway of Ngo Dong River. Actually, Tam Coc was known with the beauty of this part even more widely than the caves themselves.

On the both sides of the winding river are rice fields and limestone mountains which change their own appearance as seasons go by. If you love to experience the boat ride in this particular part, come to Tam Coc in harvest season to see the rice fields in golden color.

Hang Ca: Hang Ca means 'First Cave', also the largest cave with 127m in length and an entrance 20m high. When the boat enters the cave, you'll a cool, refreshing atmosphere here and also can see beautiful karstic formations.

Hang Hai: Hang Hai is the Second Cave, also the second largest in size with just 60m long. The second cave is about 1 kilometer from the First Cave. The second cave is known for its gorgeous ceiling.

Hang Ba: Lying just right next to Hang Hai, Hang Ba (Third Cave) is only 50m in length, much lower than the other two. The cave's ceiling looks like a little dome made of limestone.

Thai Vy Temple: Thai Vy is the worshiping place of King Tran Thai Tong, Generals Tran Hung Dao, Tran Quang Khai and Queen Tran Thi Dung. In the past, Ninh Binh was the place the Trans chose to build a military base (Hanh Cung Vu Lam) to fight the Mongols. During the boat ride, the rower will stop to let you walk trek up to the temple.

Thien Huong Grotto: The grotto lies along the river-way to Thai Vi temple, so you can visit the grotto before the pagoda. The grotto is on middle of a small mountain (about 15m above ground), dry and bright, with height of 60m, depth 40m and width 20m. Inside the grotto is the shrine of Quen Tran Thi Dung who taught the locals here the craft of weaving.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

2. Bich Dong Route: Bich Dong - Xuyen Thuy Dong

The boat ride to Bich Dong is separated with Tam Coc boat ride, starting from a different wharf.

Bich Dong Grotto - Bich Dong Pagoda: Bich Dong is the place that was called 'The Second Nicest Grotto in Vietnam'. The beauty of Bich Dong was only behind Huong Tich Grotto. The grotto is a dry one, lying on the middle of the mountain. Bich Dong Pagodas are also located at this site. There are three pagodas on this mountain: Lower Pagoda, Middle Pagoda (Bich Dong Pagoda) and Upper Pagoda. Visitors often visit the first and the second ones, but if you can trek all the way up for the view.

The entrance to Bich Dong mountain is quite a famous spot to take photos, you shouldn't miss.

Xuyen Thuy Grotto: The grotto is a river grotto going through Bich Dong mountain. It's darker and can be visited by boat. The grotto is 350m long, going from east to west with average width of 6m. The entrance to this grotto is on the opposite side of the pagoda's entrance.

Dong Tien: Dong Tien is a fair spot in the complex, located just 1km away from Bich Dong Pagoda. The grotto's ceiling has a gorgeous karst formations hanging down, sparkling under light. There are also bats and birds living inside the grotto.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

What to eat when traveling Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Goat meat

Goat meat is less fat and flavored. The feature of the mountainous land provides a variety of grasses and vegetables, which are suitable to become food for goats. When enjoying goat meat, you can combine with Kim Son wine, Nho Quan wine and Ninh Binh burned rice.

Burned rice

Burned rice is not a traditional dish of Ninh Binh people but it is created by preserved by Ninh Binh residents. It is simple but reflects the carefulness of people. This dish is preserved in many thousand years, becoming a specialty of the capital.

Snails

This type of mountainous snail is very rare as they only live in the rocky caves. From April to August, they get out of their shelters to find food and give birth. Snails are in all regions of Ninh Binh but concentrate most in limestone areas like Tam Diep, Yen Mo and Nho Quan, Hoa Lu. The meat is tough, brittle and flavored. Snails can be made into various dishes, namely roasted snails, fried snails and boiled snails.

Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi Itinerary sugestion

One day:

Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc
Hanoi - Hoa Lu - Mua Cave - Tam Coc

Two day: Ha Noi - Hoa Lu - Mua Cave - Tam Coc - Bai Dinh - Trang An - Ha Noi

With attractive natural landscape, Ninh Binh is one of the most fascinating destinations in the North of Vietnam. Just try it! Don’t waste the opportunity to explore the hidden charming of Ninh Binh.

A Day Exploring Bac Ha Market - A Textile Lover’s Paradise in Northern Vietnam

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 05:48:00 +0000

Lao Cai is a mountainous province in the Northwest Vietnam, where the famous scenic spot of Sapa and unique cultural traditions of highland people. Sapa Tours From Hanoi is famous for many special markets; and Bac Ha Market is a unique cultural experience of this place that anyone should explore once.

Photo by Truth'soutthere

1. Where is Bac Ha market?

Bac Ha traditional market has long become a famous Sapa tourist destination that anyone who visits Lao Cai will stop by.

Bac Ha market is located exactly in Bac Ha town, Bac Ha district, Lao Cai province. This market is about 65km from Lao Cai city center. A special feature of this fair is the meeting on Sunday mornings every week. So, this is the ideal destination for Sapa weekend trips.

2. How to get to Bac Ha Market

By bus from Sapa: Bac Ha Market lies 100km (62 miles) east of Sapa. The long drive over unkempt, windy roads takes the better part of three hours by minivan - I expect it would take around 4 hours by bus. There are direct local buses from Sapa to Bac Ha, but I recommend changing buses at Lao Cai for a more reliable journey. Minivans bound for Lao Cai city depart from Sapa’s main square throughout the day.

By bus from Lao Cai: In Lao Cai city, find your way to the main bus terminal and pick up a Bac Ha-bound bus. According to this schedule, buses depart at 6am, 11am and 1pm.

By private transport: Any travel agency can organise van transfer to and from Bac Ha. This is essentially what tourist did.

There is another route that visitors often go with to explore Ha Giang. You can go from Hoang Su Phi to Xin Man, passing Bac Ha market to attend the fair. Bac Ha market usually ends around 2 pm. After that, visitors can continue to Sapa if you have time.

3. Unique features of Bac Ha market

Photo by AJ Oswald

Brocade area

Bac Ha market is very large, often divided into many areas with specific characteristics of goods products. The most prominent is the brocade market where the brocade items are sold and hand-woven by the ethnic people themselves. Here you can choose to buy a few beautiful dresses, towels, bags, ... colorful, hanging in the booth.

Area of green vegetables and fruits

The market of green vegetables and fruits at Bac Ha market is also very attractive with many colors of fresh red peppers, lush green vegetables, turmeric yellow beeswax, dark black shovel hoes ... very interested in the eye. Here you can discover more exotic items that may have never been seen before.

Poultry area

Bac Ha Market is mainly a gathering place to sell horses, sell buffaloes but with a very large scale of up to hundreds of animals, , together with men gathered crowded. In addition, there is also a Bac Ha dog market with highland precious dog breeds, be sought after by pet lovers. Another corner is Bac Ha bird market with many rare and precious bird species.

4. What to eat in Bac Ha Market?

Photo by collect on the internet

Men Men (Mèn Mén)

Men Men is a unique dish made from corn, this is a very typical dish of Bac Ha people because the main agricultural product here is corn. Corn kernels are separated and ground into powder until you eat, they bring cornmeal mixed with water and steam it. Men Men are sold in banana-covered baskets or nylon leaves sitting around the market very easy to find.

Thang Co Bac Ha

If you ever travel to Sapa, then surely you've heard about the Thang Co Sapa is not it. Maybe you do not know Bac Ha is the cradle of Thang Co, so no region can make a Thang Co with traditional flavor like in Bac Ha. Thang Co Bac Ha is made from horse meat and internal organs, adding some spices and forest leaves that are often eaten in the cold days beside the kitchen of the pink fire is the best, while eating and sipping some corn wine, there is nothing equal.

Duc Ngo cake

Bac Ha Duc Ngo cake is made from tiny corn, contained in a large pot, when eating, the seller will chop it for more broth and use it together with onion, wild vegetables and chili is a delicacy that cannot be missed in Bac Ha Market, sure you will definitely love it.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Bac Ha Pho

Another traditional delicacy of Bac Ha cannot be missed when wandering the Bac Ha market is Pho. Bac Ha Pho has many types such as: Pho Chua, cooked Pho, mixed Pho, ... made from red rice - a type of rice grown only in Lung Phinh, Bac Ha. Pho is better when served with meat, pickles, herbs, chili, and salt.

People often say, Sapa tourism that has not visited Bac Ha market, the trip is not really complete. So if you have the opportunity, don't forget to visit the market on Sundays. Here, you have just been able to enjoy unique specialties and have many strange experiences that you will never forget.

North Vietnam Tour For Family with 4 Exciting Activities To Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Nga Do) — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 12:01:00 +0000

Traveling with your kids is always not an easy task, from what to pack to how to get there, it’s rife with potential worries. Your kids may get bored by a classic itinerary with so many museums, temples, pagodas, etc. Don't worry, with our following suggestions, your job will be much easier.

With great food, lush scenery and lots of warm, friendly locals, the whole family will fall in love with Vietnam. Sail beautiful Halong Bay. Delight at water puppets in Hanoi. Learn about culture and wearing traditional costumes of ethnic minorities in Sapa. With so much to share and do together, you'll experience the culture, flavours, and highlights of a Vietnam holiday packages your family will always remember.

Photo by Yuchinkay

Street Food In Hanoi

No exploration of Hanoi is complete without having a taste of street food. The food in Hanoi is some of the freshest, and most delicious of anywhere in the world and the best way to explore it is to take a city tour with an in-the-know Hanoi tour guide.

Hanoi city tour took you weaving through the winding roads of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, then pulling up small plastic stools on the pavements to sample a wide range of delicious Hanoi delicacies.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

Trekking In Sapa

Sapa is the hub for hiking the Vietnamese highlands. It’s sad that the town has paid no attention to planning, and has allowed an immense amount of construction to ruin a rural idyll. However, the hiking that surrounds the town is wonderful. With kids trekking to waterfalls, over mountains, alongside rice terraces, and through villages.

The highlands of Sapa are home to five different minority tribes – the Black H’mong, Red Dao, Tay, Xa Pho and Giay. Tourists are invited to visit their villages, watch the embroidery of handicrafts and stone engraving. Your kids will be visiting some villages to experience village life, discover unique life skills from upland kids and learn useful knowledge from traditional craft villages, feel the magic from nature.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours

A Trip Of Halong Bay Cruise

A North Vietnam Unique Tour 2019 will not be completed without an overnight cruise trip in Halong Bay. It is because such excursion offers many interesting activities that all family members will enjoy together. Most of the children are keen on exploring the beautiful outdoors. So you and your kids will have the chance to discover amazing caves with a Halong Bay overnight cruise. You will be surprised at how attentive your kids are when they are hearing how the cave was formed.

Another fun part is kayaking. This activity is often voted as a highlight when your travel to Halong Bay that both the young and middle-aged people enjoy. If you are traveling in a big family with elderly, the boat often offer rowing boat ride as an alternative. When night falls, the family can just chat on the sundeck to enjoy the sky on the sea or try squid fishing. On the second morning, some boats offer a trip to a local floating fishing village and you may teach your kids how the pearl is naturally created.

Last but not least, please have a look at a list of related Vietnam tours 2019 below for your reference:

Now, anyone can plan a great, memorable and meaningful Vietnam family tour package. Traveling with your kids or your elderly parent can be fun and worry-free if you know about the above activities.