HOI AN ON BIKE

Once known as Faifo, Hoi An was one of the orient's major trading ports in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Hoi An City Tours

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

Nha Trang Boat trip

Overview Transferring to Da Chong Whalf, about 18 km away from the city center for embarking on boat, cruising on Nha Phu bay.

Ha Long bay

Recognized by Unesco as a World Heritage Site since 1994 for it thousands of natural islands, Ha Long Bay is a legendary world, and one of the most magnificent scenic spots in Vietnam as well.

Discover Stunning Terraced fields in Northwest Vietnam

The terraced fields in the mountain district of Mu Cang Chai in Yen Bai, Vietnam are associated with the developmental history of the Mong ethnic minority group.

Big buffets for National Day

Some hotels and restaurants under Saigontourist in HCMC are preparing special food programs for Vietnam National Day on September 2.

* Fireworks night at Majestic Hotel Saigon (1 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, tel: 3829 5517)

The program will feature seafood dishes at the Breeze Sky Bar on the hotel’s fifth floor from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The bar is also ideal for guests to enjoy the National Day fireworks show with live music, juggling and bartender performances. Tickets are priced from VND918,000 per adult and VND458,000 per child, inclusive of wine, soft drinks and mineral water.

At the hotel’s Serenade Restaurant on the seventh floor, guests can enjoy buffets with European and Asian dishes, accompanied with a free drink and entertainment. Tickets are priced at VND728,000 per adult and VND368,000 a child.

The hotel’s M.Bar on the eighth floor is another good venue for tourists to join with family or friends to admire the fireworks and enjoy live music performed by the Coco band.

* Binh Quoi 2 Tourist Area (At the end of Binh Quoi Street, Binh Thanh District, tel: 3556 5470)

Guests select from the delicious buffet at Binh Quoi 2 Tourist Area in HCMC’s Binh Thanh District. - Photo: Courtesy of Saigontourist.

The buffet will be served with more than 60 dishes from coastal regions and new grill dishes. Buffet lunch will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and buffet dinner will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the price of VND170,000 per adult and VND100,000 per child. There are a flamenco show with the Latin Eyes band plus circus and juggling performances by sorcerer Tran Long to entertain gourmets.

* Gala buffet at Grand Hotel Saigon (8 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, tel: 3829 4046)

The hotel will serve a buffet program with selected dishes such as seafood, mixed vegetables with Ha Tien seaweed, a delicious range of sushi, grilled clams with cheese, roast turkey American style and Russian style grilled pork.

Buffet lunch on September 1 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the hotel’s Chez-Nous Restaurant will cost about VND149,000 per adult and VND99,000 per child, inclusive of a bag of Russian beer or fruit juices.

Buffet dinner at the restaurant will be prepared from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on September 2, accompanied with ethnic music performed by Phu Sa band and singers Bich Phuong, Phuong Thuy and Anh Tho. Tickets are VND319,000 per adult and VND159,000 per child, inclusive of drinks such as Russian beer, cocktail and wine. After the buffet, stay to dance with the Philipin band and enjoy the fireworks from the hotel’s rooftop 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are priced at US$20.

People who purchase 10 tickets before August 31 will get one free.

* Grilled seafood buffet at Gio Noi Restaurant (265 Pham Ngu Lao Street, District 1, tel: 3836 5172)

Come to the party on the ninth floor and take in the panoramic view of Saigon by night while the chefs grill the fresh seafood. Tickets are priced at VND320,000 per adult and VND160,000 per child, inclusive of beer and soft drinks. Guests that purchase tickets before August 31will get 10% discount.

* Van Thanh Tourist Area (48/10 Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, tel: 3512 3025)

A buffet featuring more than 50 dishes will be served in the garden from 5 p.m. on September 2. Guests can also join folk games and children can have fun making sand paintings or coloring figurines. Tickets are priced at VND170,000 per adult and VND100,00 per child.

VietNamNet/SGT

Air tickets for September holiday running out

VietNamNet Bridge – Representatives of the national air carrier Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar Pacific Airlines have said that flight tickets for August 30-31 and September 1 on some “golden air routes” like Hanoi – Nha Trang are nearly running out. Meanwhile, tickets for flights on some other routes are also running short.



The National Day holiday is long this year, lasting four days, so many families decided to take trips during the holiday. As the demand for traveling increases, it is very difficult to obtain air tickets from big cities to tourism sites.


According to the budget airline Jetstar Pacific, the Hanoi – Nha Trang and HCM City – Nha Trang flights are the “hottest” air routes now, since many families like spending time on beautiful beaches. The airline said the demand for traveling has increased by 30-40 percent from ordinary days. All the seats on the flights from Hanoi and HCM City to Nha Trang on September 1 have been booked. Passengers can now only book tickets for earlier or later flights on August 29-31 and after September 3.


Vietnam Airlines has said the air carrier is planning to provide more flights on some air routes on the days close to September 2, National Day. To date, tickets for short and medium distance flights have nearly run out because of the high demand for air travel. There have been no tickets available for the flights from Hanoi and HCM City to Nha Trang on September 1.


Passengers need to book air tickets right now for flights on August 30-31 or September 2. Meanwhile, air tickets for flights on other routes like Hanoi – Da Nang, Hanoi – Hue, or Hanoi – Da Lat are also running low, especially flights during “golden hours” (in the morning or afternoon).


The owner of the booking agent on Tran Hung Dao street in Hanoi has confirmed that the number of passengers booking tickets to fly on holiday days with Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar Pacific has increased sharply over the last few years. “A lot of passengers are still calling to book tickets for flights on September 1, but we have to tell them that we have no more tickets,” he said.


According to the booking agent, unlike Tet holiday, the “hottest” air routes on National Day holiday are the ones which link big cities and tourism destinations like Nha Trang, Da Lat, or Da Nang. Meanwhile, passengers still can book tickets now for the Hanoi - HCM City flights on August 30-31 and September 1-2. Since both Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar Pacific have been focusing on developing the two air routes, the supply of tickets for these flights remains abundant. At the moment, passengers can still book cheap tickets on the HanoiHCM City route.


In related news, the budget airline Jetstar Pacific has announced a campaign to sell thousands of cheap air tickets for domestic flights on August 31. The sales campaign is in honor of the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi.


The air carrier will sell tickets from 8am to 5pm on August 31. The tickets will allow passengers to fly roundtrip on these routes: Hanoi - HCM City, Hanoi - Da Nang, HCM City - Da Nang, HCM City - Hai Phong. The flights will depart between September 7 and October 27.


Tickets for the HanoiDa Nang and HCM CityDa Nang routes will cost 315,000 dong, while tickets for HanoiHCM City will cost 615,000 dong. The HCM City – Hai Phong route will cost 600,000 dong.


On August 20, Jetstar Pacific also launched a campaign to sell cheap air tickets. Nearly 6000 passengers successfully booked tickets.


Source: VnExpress

Exploring the Ho Chi Minh Trail, Vietnam

The Ho Chi Minh trail, made famous as a supply route for the North Vietnamese in the Vietnam War with America, is actually a network of trails and dirt roads roughly paralleling the Vietnam/Laos border.

Motorcycling on Ho Chi Minh trail, Vietnam

These trails were originally developed during the resistance movement against the French and were used to move troops and supplies during both conflicts.

There is no “official” Ho Chi Minh Trail because it is a loose network of trails, and there are no official tourist opportunities available on the trail, but the trail is available for hiking or biking as a traveler sees fit.

Danang is a good place to start. Flying into Danang will help you get your bearings in this country, and someone will help point you in the right direction. Going to villages to the west of Vietnam is your best bet, but understand that nothing official has been set up regarding the Ho Chi Minh trail. There are no museums or cultural exploration sites, nor are there marked trails or visitor’s centers. Renting a mountain bike and exploring the trails on your own is your best bet to experience the Ho Chi Minh trail.

Some war relics remain in these areas, destroyed tanks, shrapnel, etc.; anything that is too large to take to a recycling facility easily. These can be found lying in the open or buried under jungle growth. Keep in mind that it is important to stay on the trails as some of the U.S. bombs and mines may still be live in the areas.

A good place to explore is in the southern part of Vietnam near Ho Chi Minh City. The Cu Chi tunnels that were built to infiltrate enemy lines were built in conjunction with a few of the supply trails. Many of these tunnels have been developed into attractions for visitors; they can tour almost 200 kilometers of tunnels built during the Vietnamese – American war.

Because the trails meander between Laos and Vietnam, it is important to know where you are and where you are going. This will keep you from breaking your visa agreement and being fined or kicked out of the country. Visas must be applied for at least six months prior to entry date. Tourist visas are granted for one month, but may be extended after arrival in Vietnam, and only allow one entry into the country.

Tourists must fill out arrival/departure papers and declaration papers, keeping both with the passport at all times. It is also recommended having a few extra passport-size photos with you as local authorities may request these and it is always a good idea to stay on the good side of authorities.

With over two-thirds of its roads unpaved and those paved roads sporting an abundance of potholes, the road conditions almost require a mountain bike. Most hotels, cafes and GHs will rent bicycles while also providing fairly dependable service options at the same time.

Source: bootsnall

Viajes Indochina Introduce New Viajes Vietnam Website

Viajes Vietnam tour and travel guide with tips, advice and useful information on travel activities on tours provided direct from local tour operators. This guide helps travelers find out what to see and do and plan the travel itinerary.
Viajes Vietnam

Viajes Indochina is pleased to announce the launch of a new website section that features Viajes Vietnam tours which are supplied direct from tour operators based in Vietnam. Take no chances with the next vacation, travel with those who know the destination by experience.

Vietnam is a premier travel destination in Indochina, offering many beautiful sightseeings, UNESCO’s Heritages to explore, and cultural depth unlike anything else seen on earth. The Natural sights and culture tours complemented with modern amenities makes Vietnam becomes an ideal vacation destination on several levels.

Vietnam is a country most people have heard of but until recently few have had the opportunity to visit. It was not until the early 1990s that the first intrepid travelers started arriving. Things have come a long way in the past decade and visitors from all over the world are now discovering what a hidden gem of a country Vietnam is. Brilliant green rice fields, exotic temples and pagodas, grand colonial buildings, bustling city streets, thatched bamboo huts, grand colonial buildings, exotic temples and pagodas, deserted sandy beaches, breathtaking mountain scenery, conical straw hats, colorful ethnic minorities, graceful women in ao dai tunics, delicious cuisine, great out door activities luxurious hotels, stunning resorts and more, much more, it’s all here in Vietnam.

The two great metropolises of the country are the elegant capital city Hanoi and the dynamic, economic powerhouse Ho Chi Minh City. Since 1993 UNESCO has declared five World Heritage Sites in Vietnam, four in central Vietnam and one in the north. The four sites in central Vietnam are the former imperial capital Hue, the historic trading port of Hoi An, the centre of the former Cham Kingdom, My Son, and Phong Nha Caves. The fifth World Heritage Site is the spectacular natural wonder that is Halong Bay in northern Vietnam, breathtakingly featured in James Bond and other films.

A Vietnam tour should make every first-timer's itinerary to Indochina, with no exception. The sightseeings systems are beautiful, the unique culture is unmatched anywhere on earth, all without giving up the comfort of civilization, with hotels and other amenities located nearby.

Minimalist air-and-hotel tours attract active travellers

VietNamNet Bridge – Travel addicts have more options after the recent launch of two new Free&Easy tourist packages by the national carrier Vietnam Airlines.

Crescent city: The central city of Da Nang is a favourite destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. Vietnam Airlines is offering a Free&Easy tour of the city.
Crescent city: The central city of Da Nang is a favourite destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. Vietnam Airlines is offering a Free&Easy tour of the city.
The new packages to Seoul and Pusan, South Korea include an economy-class return ticket, two-night hotel accommodation and round trip airport-hotel transfer.

The airline launched its first Free&Easy package at the end of 2005. It now offers packages to four domestic destinations and 10 locations in Southeast and Northeast Asia.

Domestic packages include tours to Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang and Da Lat from Ha Noi and HCM City, with prices ranging from VND2.6-5.2 million (US$135-270). The domestic packages are only available to Vietnamese citizens and foreigners living in Viet Nam.

International packages are available for Vietnamese citizens and all foreigners.

The reasonable prices for the Free&Easy packages have attracted many people, including Ngoc Diep, who has taken several trips, mainly to Thailand.

"I’ve travelled to Bangkok four times over the past two years for less than $200 each trip," she said.

However, due to the current chaotic security, Bangkok is no longer Diep’s favourite option. She’s considering Seoul or Pusan as her next travel destination.

"Although these packages are more expensive than the Bangkok package, I believe it will be worth it," she said.

University student Khanh Ly and her friends bought Free&Easy packages to Beijing for their summer holiday.

"We didn’t worry about the hotel because it was included in the package, leaving us more time to discover Beijing," said the 22-year-old.

Ly said that after she returned from Beijing some of her classmates decided to choose similar vacation packages.

"My friends selected the package to Siem Riep because they longed to visit the World Heritage site Angkor Wat. The reasonable $179 price also influenced their decision," she said.

The package does not include entrance tickets to tourist attractions.

The wanderers: Located about 30km from Da Nang, the historic town of Hoi An is another tourist favourite. (Photos: VNS)
The wanderers: Located about 30km from Da Nang, the historic town of Hoi An is another tourist favourite. (Photos: VNS)
"Although we bought the Free&Easy package, we still had to pay for the entrance tickets whenever we visited any sightseeing sites, while some tours designed by travel agents include these costs," Dao Mai Trang, a white-collar worker, said.

However, Trang and her friends still have reason to be Free&Easy customers.

"We don’t want to wake up early to join pre-planned tour activities. We prefer our own flexible travelling schedule. That’s why we have bought Free&Easy tours several times."

According to the Vietnam Airlines Passenger Marketing Department (PMD), 1,800 customers bought the Free&Easy packages from May to July, a 25 per cent increase over the same period last year, with Vietnamese customers making up 70 per cent of that figure.

"The tours to Singapore, Hong Kong and Siem Riep are our customers’ favourites," said PMD staff Phi Thi Bich Ngoc.

Similar packages are also offered by tourist agencies, including the New Orient Tour, Viettran Tour and Hanoi Red Tours.

Vietnamtourism Hanoi Joint Stock Co deputy director Nguyen Thi Kim Thanh has offered a tip for those who are considering a Free&Easy package: "In order to get the best price, the traveller should book the tour as far in advance as possible."

Most people who have taken a Free&Easy tour agree with Thanh’s advice, saying they had to plan for their trip a couple of months early.

"Although the Free&Easy tour includes many conditions, it was designed for flexibly and can be adjusted to meet the demands of all travellers, including those who wish to take business class on the plane or stay in a five-star hotel," Thanh said.

Vietnam Airlines plans to launch a Free&Easy package to Shanghai by the end of this year.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News

Century old cathedral in Phu Yen

VietNamNet Bridge – Amidst the greenery and serenity of a small quiet commune of An Thach in Phu Yen Province stands Mang Lang Church, a building that has weathered over a hundred years in the harsh central region.

The 120 year-old Mang Lang Church in Phu Yen Province. (Photo: SGT)

The 120 year-old Mang Lang Church in Phu Yen Province. (Photo: SGT)

The burning heat in the dry season, and downpours and storms in the rainy season have not ruined Mang Lang, but have left a grey-black layer on the façade of the oldest church left in the province which is better known for its natural attractions such as Da Dia Cliffs.

Time has left its mark on the church’s two bell towers that attract many tourists, Catholic and non-Catholic.

The church is equally appealing behind its walls. It has stained glass windows with the Cross and other Christian images and yellow arches along the corridors that run down both sides of the building.

The silence inside Mang Lang is overwhelming when there aren’t any prayer sessions or services underway. The beautiful paintings and carvings about Christ and saints shed light over the quietude. The stained glass filtered sunlight bathes the inside of the church during the day while it is lit by lanterns at night.

The combination of Eastern and Western architecture makes Mang Lang worth a visit and Catholics may want to peruse the documents about the life of Saint Andrew Phu Yen. His statue stands solemnly on a small hill in the church yard.

Saint Andrew Phu Yen was the first Vietnamese martyr who was canonized in March 2000. Documents say he was martyred in July 1644 at the age of 19, three years after he was baptized and 248 years before work began on the church.

French priest Joseph de la Cassagne started building Mang Lang Church in a paddy field in 1892. No doubt, the building has not experienced much change since that time, when there were many plants with purple pink blossoms called Mang Lang, from which the church takes its name.

Mang Lang is a famed destination for Catholic pilgrims but is still reasonably unknown compared to other Phu Yen attractions. But, it is easy to visit as it is situated on the way to Vietnam’s nearby national site Da Dia Cliffs.

Mang Lang is less than two kilometers from National Highway 1A and just over 10 kilometers from Da Dia Rock Cliffs. The church can be reached by car and the best time to go is from noon till early afternoon.

VietNamNet/SGT

Developer signs multiple hotel management deals

VietNamNet Bridge – The Vietnamese-American Hotel and Resort (VAHR) Ltd. signed three management agreements yesterday, August 24, with a major hotel operator for the The Ritz Carlton, JW Marriott and Outrigger hotels, all US-headquartered.


VAHR was established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of American company ITC Spectrum LLC to develop the Vinh Hoi Bay Golf Resort Project, which covers 325ha, 25km north of Quy Nhon City in Binh Dinh Province.

The Outrigger Vinh Hoi Bay Resort and Spa with 210 rooms and 46 villas will start construction in mid-2011, and is expected to open for business at the end of 2013.

The 100-villa Vinh Hoi Bay, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and the 320-room JW Marriott Vinh Hoi Bay Resort&Spa are expected to begin construction in early 2012 and be completed in 2014.

The centerpiece of the 325ha-development will be an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones II of California.

Beside the three hotels in the first phase, residential villa communities, a retail centre, and another culture and entertainment centre, as well as a tropical garden will be constructed.

The later phase of the development will feature three additional hotels and residential properties, as well as a horse race course and marina, according to Canh D. Tran, chairman and CEO of the Vietnamese-American Hotel and Resort Co.

Going with SAP

In another development, Bitexco Group has begun a US$900,000 plan to apply enterprise-resource planning solutions from German-based SAP for the operation and management of the 68-floor Bitexco Financial Tower in HCM City, the country’s highest building, which will open in October.

Global CyberSoft (Vietnam), in co-operation with its strategic partner, BayanTrade (Philippines), will develop the plan over a four-month period.

The modules include financial services and accounting, real estate sales, real estate management, maintenance and document management systems.

All modules are customised to maximise the effectiveness of the tower’s functional operations.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News

Viajes Indochina kicks off special Viajes Vietnam for honeymoon couples

Viajes Indochina has a special offer tour named “Special Viajes Vietnam” for couples who are in the honeymoon week. Enjoy the sweet as honey emotions beside the love of the life, in the most famous and romantic of Vietnam.

Halong bay, VietnamHalong bay, Vietnam

Viajes Indochina Agency (AVI) is brand name of Spain language market where ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (a largest and most prestigious tour operator in Vietnam) offers professional travel sevices and holiday package which have been widely accepted by customers primarily in Spain, Mexico, Venezuela.

Feel the love and romance in Vietnam. AVI does everything which makes the couples have a sweet honeymoon vacation

with an unforgettable experience and unique. AVI will arrange Vietnam visa on arrival for couples to have more time to prepare the vacation before arriving Vietnam. The hotels and places AVI has chose are amazing and wonderful to the complete satisfaction of couples and spend some quiet time while enjoying life ....

Roses and chocolates that are inside the room will also be included in the offer, thus helping couples have moments of ecstasy and fulfillment during sweet time in Vietnam.

Couples only send AVI a request or call us at +844-35738569 or Hotline: +84977.311.466 and AVI will do the best to arrange the perfect week honeymoon they have ever had in Vietnam

TRAVEL IN BRIEF 20/8

German tour operators explore MICE

Tour operator Asian Trails Co will organise tours for more than 300 MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) organisers from Germany who want to look over Vietnamese destinations. The group, which will be here on September 4-10, will visit Ha Noi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and HCM City.

Bui Viet Thuy Tien, managing director of Asian Trails, said Germany and Belgium are the company’s biggest customers for MICE tourism to Viet Nam.

Five-star resort to open on Con Dao

Con Dao Island. (Photo: SGT)
Con Dao Island. (Photo: SGT)
Six Senses Con Dao, the first luxury resort on the famous Con Dao Island in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau will welcome its first guests in December.

The five-star resort boasts "ultra-contemporary architecture designed to enhance the natural beauty of the site".

All materials and resources have been locally chosen, and from sustainable sources, the resort developers say.

The resort has 50 villas, each with its own private infinity pool and unobstructed views of the East Sea with a total capacity of 200 guests. Each villa has both space and privacy along with indoor and outdoor bathrooms.

Con Dao is part of a 16-island archipelago around 200km from Vung Tau City.

Malaysian food for national day

Malaysia’s National Day will be celebrated with a special menu at the Hotel Nikko Ha Noi from August 21-31.

Organised in conjunction with the Embassy of Malaysia and the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, the menu will feature authentic dishes of Penang Island "the food capital of Malaysia".

The island was influenced by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Nyonya (or Peranakan) cuisines, the latter being a mixture of Chinese and Malay.

Featured dishes include spicy and sour tamarind fish, spicy king prawn with stinky bean, Malaysian beef stew in oriental herbs, famous Penang fried flat noodles and curry fish head with lady fingers.

In addition, the teh tarik (pulled tea) – a hot black tea and condensed milk – will be brewed using an authentic technique of pouring back and forth from a high container to a low one. A demonstration will be presented daily.

The dinner buffet will cost VND500,000/person. Malaysian National Day is on August 31.

Tourists opt for budget travel

More Vietnamese went or plan to go on vacations this year but mostly on low budgets, a survey by Sai Gon Giai Phong (Liberated Sai Gon) newspaper has found.

More than 64 per cent of the 2,100 people polled between April and July said they made several trips this year, compared with 54 per cent last year, but more people went on budget tours.

Less than 20 per cent were willing to spend more than VND10 million (US$512) on a trip, slightly down from 20.2 per cent last year, while 46.3 per cent agreed to pay VND5 million to VND10 million, down from 57.4 per cent.

Charity caravan leaves for Ha Noi

A Charity Journey from HCM City to Ha Noi 2010, a nine-day caravan to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of Ha Noi, has left HCM City on its first leg to Binh Thuan.

The caravan, sponsored by the CT Group, the HCM City Business Association, the Viet Nam Young Doctors Association, and others, will travel through Khanh Hoa, Thua Thien-Hue, Da Nang, Binh Dinh, and Quang Binh to Ha Noi.

At every stop, it will perform charity activities like providing free health checks and medicines and giving away scholarships to the poor it will also engage in cultural exchanges.

VietNamNet/Viet Nam News

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Blue seas and unspoiled beaches

VietNamNet Bridge – Beaches in the North are always crowded so the romance of nature seems to be lost. However, for beachgoers looking for somewhere relatively untouched, Co To Island’s beaches in Quang Ninh Province are the perfect spot.


Unspoiled Van Chai beach on Co To Island in Quang Ninh Province. (Photo: SGT)

Unspoiled Van Chai beach on Co To Island in Quang Ninh Province. (Photo: SGT)

East of Van Don Island, Co To Island District comprises dozens of islands on about 4,000 square kilometers. Among them, Co To Lon, Thanh Lan and Tran are three largest and most attractive islands.

To get to Co To, take an hour boat ride from Cai Rong Wharf, which is an hour and a half bus ride from Halong City. Though the cruise can be rough, it is worth taking to see the breathtaking limestone islands sitting like sleeping dragons on the water. These islands inspired a local legend.

Once upon a time, when Vietnam was invaded, the Jade Emperor sent a mother dragon with a herd of little dragons to earth help the people defend their country. When the enemy boats came towards the shore, dragons vomited thousands of pearls and gems that turned into stone islands to prevent the enemy’s approach. After defeating the invaders, the dragons did not return to heaven but stayed on earth. The place the Mother Dragon resided is now Ha Long Bay and the young dragons turned into the islands of Bai Tu Long Bay which contains the Co To island group.

After an hour on the boat, green, misty mountain ranges and white sandy beaches of Co To Island appear on the horizon.

The island boasts many beaches, of which the most popular is Bac Ho Beach, a long stretch of sand bordered by pine forest. A paved path winds along the edge of the sandy beach, lined with houses, shops and a market.

Van Chai and Hong Van are the two must-see beaches in Co To. Van Chai Beach is still unspoiled. Tourists can relax and play in the big waves and stay overnight in small bungalows. Hong Van beach is always quiet with small waves.

Bac Van Beach is known for the different kinds of coral that the authorities are trying to conserve.

At Co To, trek up to the lighthouse to take in a panorama of the whole island. On the way, there is a pine forest full of wild flowers and butterflies.

Tourists can take photos of many tamed monkeys on the island.

At the end of the day the sunset looks spectacular from the wharf as it sinks behind the mountains leaving a darkening purple sky.

VietNamNet/SGT

Life on the Ba Be lake in Vietnam

At nearly 150 meters above sea level, Ba Be is Vietnam’s highest and biggest lake. It remains full all year round. Ba Be mean three lakes in Tay language, Ba Be Lake is nine kilometers long and averages one kilometer across. The lake’s deepest point measures 35 meters.

Ba Be lake, Bac Kan, VietnamBa Be lake, Bac Kan, Vietnam

The road to Ba Be Lake is winding and crooked.

At times concrete gives way to dirt and I begin to wonder why I’m travelling 240 kilometers northwest of the capital’s comforts.

By car, this trip can take seven hours.

Perhaps it is this treacherous road that keeps the mountains surrounding Ba Be Lake primitive and unspoiled.

As we neared the lake, the sky opened up and a powerful mountain rain began to fall. I was overwhelmed with the strength of this rain, which seemed to blur the soft green lines of the forest.

As the rain reached a frightening ferocity, Ba Be Lake appeared below us. The lake emerged through the tree branches like a powerful aquamarine monster. Stalks of vermillion corn and rice lined its banks while a patch of floating grass hung on the watery surface. The lake continued to peer at us through the trees as we inched seven kilometers down into the valley toward our home stay at the water’s edge.

Ms. Ho, our Tay host was waiting patiently in her raincoat. Behind her, a large wooden house loomed on stilts. Like other traditional Tay homes the main house is situated next to the kitchen. Family life takes place on the second floor while the ground “floor” acts as a kind of barn for water buffaloes and chickens.

Our terrace overlooks a small green field and a winding river that empties out onto Ba Be Lake. From here, the neighboring houses peek through the sprawling green like tiny mushrooms in a damp field. Before long, night falls and tranquility settles over the valley.

Sleep comes to me so softly.

The next morning we awake to the quacking of ducks. Our breakfast consists of fresh vegetables from the garden and fish caught in the small river in front of the house. “It rained heavy yesterday so the fish came up from the river bed. We caught a lot of fish with our vó (lift net, a traditional fish trap),” Ho said.

The pleasant mother said her family began opening their home to guests years ago, but they still maintain land for cultivation. Their days are spent in rice paddies, corn fields and their home vegetable garden.

They keep chickens and ducks. Sometimes her husband takes tourists out for a row on the lake. Life here seems simple and good.

In the morning, before making our way out onto Ba Be Lake we attempt to catch fish using the vó. We set the four bamboo sticks lined with the netting into the water and wait. When we feel a little movement, we yank the contraption out of the water. All around us, we see fishermen engaged in the same hunt.

In the end we catch a few small fries and spend a while under the trees snacking on our catch. “We should come back here tomorrow with some books,” my friend said as we wandered through rows of trees that seemed ready to fall into the river.

Ba Be lake, Bac Kan, VietnamKayaking in Ba Be lake, Bac Kan, Vietnam

At 2 p.m., our boat was ready. Because we wanted to see a lot, we opted for a motorboat over the traditional long boats rowed by locals.

The midday sun had transformed last night’s big green “monster” into a giant, sparkling diamond. “We are on a lake 150 meters above the sea level,” I nearly shout, just to hear my voice echo through the valley.

The lake is so big that sometimes we have the feeling we are at sea. The shape shifts as it curves though channels lined with ancient evergreen forests. We float along on a deep blue; above us, white clouds cling to the mountain tops like the last remaining bites of cotton candy on the cone.

I try to picture myself in this place. Farming. Fishing. Picking fruit in the forest. The boat passes by a stand of Voi trees (a kind of plant whose buds and leaves can be used to prepare a drink like tea). My friend dives into the cool water and begins a slow swim. I step onto the bank and begin picking Voi buds to make tea back in Hanoi. As I begin plucking the buds, our guide tells us about a python that swallowed a whole goat on a nearby hill. I step nervously back into the boat, leaving the Voi trees alone.

The boat man tells us that we are approaching the Dau Dang water fall. Here, a stream bloated by last night’s rain feeds red clay rain into the deep blue.

We spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the quiet streams leading off the lake, following the gentle sounds of the falls, fishing and wandering through the woods.


Source: thanhniennews

Ha Long Bay ranks 2nd in world wonders voting


VietNamNet Bridge - Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay won second largest number of international votes over the past four weeks in the campaign voting for the world’s seven new natural wonders.

Ha Long Bay listed among the world’s most surreal landscapes

The information was released by the NewOpenWorld on its website

The voting for Ha Long Bay has achieved satisfactory results in several countries like Japan , the Republic of Korea , France and Mexico .

Recently, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has worked with the Ha Long Bay Management Board to open a photo exhibition in New York City of the US from August 11-18.

In the coming time, a wide range of activities to vote for Ha Long Bay will continue to take place in many countries across the world.

To voted for Ha Long bay, twice recognised by the UNESCO for its landscapes and geological values, please visit the website www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/vote_on_nominees.

Source: VNA

Tour guides show off their skills

VietNamNet Bridge – Fifteen outstanding tour guides from travel agents across the country attended the final round of a contest held in Hanoi on August 15 by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism to honour the profession and set standards for tourism.


The participants, selected from more than 50 candidates from 14 key tourist cities and provinces, competed in many different fields of activity.

Saigontourist travel agency continued to assert its leading position among Vietnam’s travel companies with its candidates securing the highest awards at the contest.

First prize went to the company’s Huynh Cong Hieu, who also won the title for giving the most interesting narration in a video clip on Hoi An ancient town. Hieu received VND5 million in cash and a tourist package to the Republic of Korea for two people.

Another candidate from Saigontourist, Nguyen Quynh, came in second and also secured the talent event. Another second prize was presented to Nguyen Hong Nguyen from Hanoitourist.

This is the second time such a contest has been held by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism; the first one was held in 2000.

The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism prepared a bank of 150 thorny questions for the contest, one third of which were situational. The candidates need to be experienced and have a broad knowledge of cultural, social and economic affairs.

VietNamNet/VOV

Halong Bay Vietnam - Where dragons lie

By CHOU K. S.

Nothing is more romantic than cruising Halong Bay in a rustic wooden junk.

After several days of being caught in the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, we badly needed to escape the chaos of Vietnam’s second largest city. So we did what most tourists here do — head for Ha Long Bay, 170km east of Hanoi.

Halong Bay Vietnam

The bay, dotted with countless mist-shrouded limestone islands, offers a stunning seascape that must rank as one of the most spectacular sights in Vietnam.

To enjoy the splendour and romance of Ha Long Bay, the wife and I joined a boat cruise. Trips of various durations are available; we opted for the popular three-day/two-night cruise. We would spend one night onboard and the second on Cat Ba Island.

The 3½ hour coach ride from Hanoi to Ha Long City took us through patchworks of rice fields. At the wharf, the scale of Ha Long Bay’s tourism business hit us as hordes of tourists milled about, while at the pier, countless wooden junks anchored close together.

The inhabitants of these floating houses in Ha Long Bay wake up every morning to the enchanting view of mist-shrouded limestone outcrops.

After waiting a while, our tour leader led us to our junk. It looked pretty much like the others, done up in rustic wood and bright yellow sails. Our boat could accommodate 20 but since our group numbered only 13, there was no fear of crowds onboard.

Ensuite cabins took up the lower deck and the lounge-cum-dining hall, the middle deck. The top deck was where the best views could be found. We promptly plonked ourselves in the deck chairs as the boat set sail.

The hazy sky cleared as we left the harbour behind. Soon, the beguiling scenery that makes Ha Long Bay a worthy World Heritage Site took over. Ribbed limestone cliffs cloaked in tufts of vegetation, rose spectacularly from the sea.

As our boat meandered through a maze of oddly shaped pinnacles and craggy rocks, we began to understand why they have earned names like Buddha Praying, Toad Islet and Rooster Rock.

Heritage sites are chosen for their cultural and historical importance as well as geological uniqueness. Ha Long Bay offers a little of all three. The view is mystical and surreal at times. The scenery that typifies Ha Long Bay is also found in Guilin, China and Phang Nga Bay in Thailand, but Ha Long Bay stands out in terms of numbers — at last count, 1,969 islands pepper the 1,553sq km bay.

There is a romantic tale of how the islets came to be. A celestial dragon and her children, sent by the Jade Emperor to stop an invasion, spat pearls into the path of the enemy. The pearls became the islands that still stand today. This legend gave rise to the name “Ha Long”, which means “dragon descending”.

There is another version which says that the islets are the bodies of the mythical beasts. Indeed, on a mist-shrouded day, pinnacles that rise from the sea do resemble the humps and bumps of dragons.

Descending dragons aside, the islets of Ha Long are more likely remnants of an ancient seabed, shoved upwards by tectonic forces, and then sculpted by wind and water. The elements have also carved cavities in these structures, thus creating hidden caves and grottoes. At Sung Sot Cave, we stood in cavernous chambers that drip with stalactites and conceal unusual cave formations.

Some limestone outcrops in the bay encircle hidden lagoons. These can be explored only by kayaks or sampan, as entry is usually just a narrow opening at the base of the outcrops. When our kayak squeezed through the low arch of an overhang, we entered a lagoon enclosed by soaring rock faces. It was dead quiet. The only other sign of life was a lone hawk circling the sky above. We instinctively paddled slower so as not to break the silence. This was indeed a small piece of heaven.

Later, we paddled past another fascinating feature of the bay — its “floating village”. This is a flotilla of houses, and even a small school, set atop floating barges.

It would be idyllic to live here, we thought: Imagine waking up to views of the enigmatic limestone islets every morning! One family was seen having a meal inside their little boathouse while on another, an elderly man was repairing nets.

The people mostly fish for a living but many have learnt to exploit the burgeoning tourism of the bay — they load their sampan with seafood, snacks, fruits and even locally made wine to sell to tourists on junks.

Yes, there were plenty of other junks like ours sailing through the bay but fortunately, the tourist hordes were easily swallowed up by the bay’s generous proportions. Our boat dropped anchor in a quiet bay in the company of several other junks that evening. After dinner, we hung out on the top deck, trading stories and watching the peaks surrounding us turn a dusky blue.

As night fell, the winter chill crept in and we quickly retired to the comfort of our cabin.

Jungle-clad island

On the second morning, we sailed towards Cat Ba Island, one of the biggest in the bay.

Cat Ba town is squeezed into a strip of land wedged between the water’s edge and limestone hills. Candy-coloured hotels line the streets of what was once a fishing village. Fortunately, the rest of the island remains largely unspoilt.

The areas consisting of coastal mangroves, freshwater swamps, beaches, caves and waterfalls were declared a national park in 1986. Then, in 2004, the Cat Ba Archipelago was designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.

The park is famous for its critically endangered golden-headed langur, which lives nowhere else and is believed to number no more than 60.

To appreciate the park’s biodiversity, we trekked for two hours to its highest point at Yen Ngua peak. The climb through the rainforest was steep in places, requiring us to scramble over tree roots and sharp rocks. But neither the langur nor other wildlife made an appearance.

At the summit, we clambered up a watch tower and found a carpet of green all around. Unfortunately, the sea was nowhere in sight.

The dining room of the sailing junk.

Later, we headed for the beach east of the town. A boardwalk hugs the rocky coast to link the three main beaches of the island. From there, the views were fantastic and as the boardwalk skirted the cliff face, we could see the island’s geological features up close. It being winter, the beaches were empty of crowds. The cold kept us from the water, so we just basked in the sun and relished the peaceful environment.

In the evenings, locals and visitors alike stroll along the harbour promenade, stopping to admire the musical fountain by the waterfront. All cruise tours include meals but it might be worthwhile eating at the many seafood restaurants in the town. We opted for a light dinner of pho bo or beef broth noodles.

The next morning, finding the hotel breakfast of toast with butter and jam too boring, we went in search of local fare and found a roadside stall offering banh cuon, Vietnam’s version of our chee cheong fun. Instead of a topping of curry or sweet sauce, the slivers of soft noodles were dunked into a bowl of tangy, herb-flavoured fish sauce. It was delicious!

From Cat Ba Island, we boarded our wooden junk for the cruise back to the mainland.

Seeing it was our last chance to experience the splendour of Ha Long Bay, we promptly sank into the deck chairs and watched the tranquil scenery slide by.

Like a scene in a Chinese brush painting, the limestone outcrops loomed mysteriously in the morning mist. Ha Long Bay is enchanting, and a welcome respite from the madness of Hanoi.

Source: thestar.com.my

Miss Vietnam contestants look sporty in jeans

VietNamNet Bridge – While Miss Vietnam Global contestants posed in swimwear, 37 girls of Miss Vietnam pageant acted for video shooting in jeans and T-shirts.
















PV

Foreign visitors disturbed in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

VietNamNet Bridge – Visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter, foreign tourists were surprised and then annoyed for being harried by vendors. These photos were shot on August 12.


These women walk along Hang Dau street to “hunt” foreign visitors.

Though the visitor refused, this woman tried to put the bamboo frame on her shoulder.

The woman asked with insistence the visitor to buy several bananas for 50,000 dong ($2.5).

Japanese visitors in a “blockade” of vendors on Dinh Liet street.

Vendors approach visitors on Cau Go street.

Vendors hang on visitors in front of the Ngoc Son Temple. There are around two dozens of old people and kids who sell souvenirs at this site.

In front of the Hanoi Opera House, the visitor refused to buy, but this woman persisted in selling her a T-shirt.

This man finally had to buy a T-shirt so this woman would leave him alone.

Source: VNE

Top 5 adventure destinations in Vietnam

According to Bootsnall travel network, there are 5 adventure destinations Vietnam recommended for tourists to travel.

Vietnam seems to be one of the new hotspots in Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s new slogan is “it’s a country, not a war”. Currently Vietnam is experiencing a massive influx of tourists not only interested in it war history, but also interested in the immense amount of soft adventure trips available throughout the country.

Below are a few of our favorites and recommendations:

HALONG BAY

Halong bay, VietnamHalong bay, Vietnam

Often touted as Vietnam’s number one tourist destination, Halong Bay, literally means “where the dragon descends into the sea.” This is an area of more than 3000 islands, where tourist come to swim, explore, and visit a natural, scenic areas recognized in 1994 on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. This is a scenic area not to be missed!

Many of the islands are uninhabited, but some have floating villages of fishermen. Most travelers rent boats and spend multiple days exploring the tiny islands. There are some great caves and inlets to explore. The great way to experience this is on sea kayak, and sleeping in a tent at night, instead of taking the main tourists boats like everybody else.

BACH MA MOUNTAIN
The highest point in Bach Ma National Park, the mountain is only 140 meters above sea level and about 18 miles from the coast. Although the mountain is steep and dense, it makes a good day hike to the top. There are great view on the way.

WESTERN CENTRAL HIGHLANDS
Using Dalat as a starting point, head west toward the border of Cambodia and Laos. If you go far enough west, this is a great way to get somewhere way off the typical Vietnam traveler circuit. This is home to a bunch of ethnic minority villages.

Some traveler’s report that tourists are not welcome, but other report to have truly remarkable experiences.

DALAT

Dalat, VietnamDalat, Vietnam

If you don’t have time, energy, or the will power to visit the Western Central Highlands, then the areas around Dalat are perfect for adventure. Dalat is a hill station in the central highland. There are mountain highlands with tiny villages scattered around throughout the area. It makes a fascinating area worth exploring.

There are a number of standard expensive tours you can arrange in the city, but it’s much better to hire your own guide, usually one that approaches you in the streets. Then, you hire a moped, and he will take you to little villages in the middle of bascially nowhere, staying a night or two and having a real cultural experience.

There are some villages in the area that is off limits to tourists – just look for the sign that has a C.

MEKONG DELTA

Mekong delta, VietnamMarket floating in Mekong Delta, Vietnam

In southern Vietnam near the border of Cambodia lies Mekong Delta. Known as “Vietnam’s Rice Belt,” the Mekong Delta is a huge system of canals of all sizes that flow into the Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Asia. This picturesque area is almost all under cultivation, and produces enough rice to feed the entire population of the south and the central regions of Vietnam. This is a great place to relax away from the big cities, taste good fruit and vegetables, and meet local people.

There are a number of interesting adventures through the Mekong Delta. You can take a boat through some of the rural waterways. Most people hire guides but you can also attempt it on your own. The Mekong Delta is also a fascinating place for cycling. You can get a true glimpse of rural life and interact with locals, although conversations are difficult.

Source: bootsnall

The cool mountain retreat near Hanoi

VietNamNet Bridge – About 80 kilometers from Hanoi, Tam Dao Mountain is considered of Dalat of the North. Holiday-makers make the trip to escape the scorching heat of the city.

Mist settles on the town of Tam Dao that experiences four seasons in one day. (Photo: SGT)

Like the name Tam Dao, which means three islands, three mountains rise like islands in the clouds. The mountains named Ban Thach, Thien Nhi and Phu Nghia are 1,300 meters above sea level.

Tam Dao has a wonderful climate with four seasons in a day. It has spring in early morning when the area is draped in mist, summer sun at noon, autumn clouds and winds at sunset and a winter chill at night. Even when everyone in the North complains of 40 degree heat, Tam Dao still enjoys the cool temperatures that draw crowds of tourists from Hanoi.

Tam Dao is in the valley between the mountains. It is known for its splendid scenery. Stand at Cong Troi (The Gate of Heaven) and Bai Da (Rock Ledge) halfway up the mountain and see the town draped in mist and clouds.

Stroll around on foot to discover the secrets of Tam Dao. If you decide to climb the mountains the way is lined by wild flowers and there is plenty of birdlife.

Close to the top is Thuong Ngan Temple where you can burn incense, learn about the history of the temple and marvel at the old architecture.

For those who do not want to walk, motorbikes are available for hire.

Another tourist spot is Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall), located not too far from the center of the town. It can be reached by a trail through a valley. When the sun shines on the 30-meter fall it looks like a silver carpet. Rung Rinh Mountain has many types of old trees and wild fruit.

Tam Dao National Park is home to 2,000 flora species and 840 species of animal, including many rare ones.

The local specialties include fish caught fresh from the streams, free range chickens and garden vegetables.

VietNamNet/SGT

 

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