Ho Chi Minh city - Attracting tourism products associated with history

50 years after the National Reunification Day (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025), many "red addresses" in Ho Chi Minh City such as the Independence Palace, Cu Chi tunnels, War Remnants Museum... still retain their historical value and become attractive destinations for tourists. Ho Chi Minh City is trying to promote the development of return-to-origin tours, introduced new products and special stimulus programs to attract a large number of domestic and international tourists. Saigon tours

The attraction of "red addresses"

Located in the heart of the city named after president Ho, the Independence Palace (Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1) is an important historical witness of April 30, 1975. It was here that on April 30, 1975, a tank pulled down the main gate to enter the palace, marking the victory of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign and the complete unification of the country. Today, this building has become a symbol of peace and independence.

Passing through the historic gate, visitors can see with their own eyes the offices and reception rooms that have been preserved intact, along with the underground bunker system, maps, and communication equipment of the old Saigon government. All of these take visitors back in time to the turbulent historical years.

Not far from the Independence Palace, the War Remnants Museum on Vo Van Tan Street (District 3) is a place to preserve artifacts, documents, and images of the crimes and devastating consequences of the Vietnam War. More than 20,000 original images, documents, and artifacts are preserved and displayed, carrying great documentary and artistic values, deeply moving many visitors.

Not only a "red address", the War Remnants Museum is also a famous global tourist destination, being in the Top 10 most attractive museums in Asia voted by travel site TripAdvisor in 2012.

Leaving the city center, visitors who want to learn more about the war can join the journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site - a "wonder" located in the heroic steel land. This tunnel system has a total length of 250km, was dug by the army and people of Cu Chi, used throughout the two wars and was a solid base for the Southern Liberation Army to attack the center of Saigon.

Coming to this "underground city", visitors can hear about the exploits of the army and people of Cu Chi, and try crawling inside the tunnels to feel the hardship and resilience of the soldiers of the past.

The Cu Chi Tunnels historical site is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a meeting place, a place to revisit the old battlefield full of emotion for veterans from all over the country. Thanks to its profound historical significance and unique appeal, the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site is being submitted by Ho Chi Minh City to UNESCO for recognition as a World Cultural Heritage.

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day, the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Department launched many new attractive products. This is an opportunity for the city’s tourism industry to honor historical values, while welcoming visitors with the hospitality that is a characteristic of the people of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City.

Accordingly, the Department of Tourism and local travel agencies prepared a variety of products to attract tourists during the April 30 holiday this year. Many historical tours have been newly designed or have new experiences, combining visits to relics with hands-on interactive activities, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of national history. The products have also been diversified to suit many audiences, from students to veterans, the elderly and international tourists.

In addition, hundreds of travel and accommodation businesses participated in the stimulus program "50 golden days - Discover the hospitable and vibrant Ho Chi Minh City", offering many incentive programs for tourists such as discounts on historical-themed inner-city tours, night museum tickets, hotel - food combos, souvenirs... This is an effort to create attraction for Ho Chi Minh City tourism on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification, while aiming at the goal of sustainable development of cultural - historical tourism.

Highlighted among the new products are the “return to the origin” tours recreating the journey of 50 years of unification, introduced by leading travel companies in Ho Chi Minh City. For example, Saigontourist Travel Company launched the “50 years - Return to the beloved South” tour exclusively for veterans to revisit the old battlefields combined with a tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Viet lux Company pioneered the development of inter-provincial “Return to the origin” tours rich in experiences.

It is expected tol be one of the city's signature products and create a meaningful impression on tourists from other provinces, cities and internationally on this occasion.

Source: Saigon exploiting tourism from Red Addresses

Night experiences not to be missed when coming to Bai Chay

Enjoy artistic fireworks 3 times a week, explore Vui-Fest night market, watch the sunset on the Sun Wheel or chill beach bar,... Bai Chay ward is becoming the most vibrant nightlife destination in Quang Ninh. Halong cruise tours

A spin on the Sun Wheel at Sun World Ha Long is the ideal choice for visitors to fully experience the moment of transition from afternoon to night in Bai Chay. From a height of more than 200 meters, the entire bay is captured in the last rays of sunlight of the day. The red sunset colors the landscape, creating a poetic moment - a "gentle silence" that many couples and families love to experience when coming to Bai Chay.

Sun World Ha Long is currently offering a cable car ticket price of VND 380,000/trip for adults and VND280,000/trip for children. Visitors can also choose a combo ticket for 2 parks or a combo ticket for 3 parks with Dragon Restaurant buffet, enjoying a full day of fun - cuisine - sightseeing at Sun World Ha Long for only VND 400,000. A worthy investment for the journey of "capturing the heritage in sight" and enjoying the summer in the most special way.

Watch fireworks 3 nights a week

No need to wait until Tet or other holidays, people and tourists can now enjoy the feeling of "New Year's Eve in the middle of summer" right at Fireworks Bay, Sun Elite City, Bai Chay Ward, with artistic fireworks displays. The beach opposite Sun Carnival Square is the most ideal place to watch fireworks. Fireworks will be launched at 9:30 pm on Thursday (July 31) and Saturday (August 2). It is expected that from the following week, there will be 3 fireworks shows each week at 9:30 pm, lasting until September 2, 2025.

Not simply a series of fireworks lighting up the sky, the fireworks here are designed in the form of high-altitude performances, combining sound and light effects. More than 1,000 fireworks and 50 special effects create unforgettable visual moments. The fireworks light up the entire bay in the excited cheers of locals and tourists. The atmosphere is enough to make anyone who has passed by look back, and anyone who has seen it once wants to come back. Fireworks on Bai Chay beach are gradually becoming a part of Quang Ninh night , when locals and tourists eagerly wait until the end of the day, not to rest, but to "see fireworks together".

"Making a mess" at Vui-Fest night market every day

Fireworks are not the only new thing in Bai Chay now. This already familiar destination now also brings a miniature festival world with the new version of Vui-Fest night market. From 6:30 p.m., the coastal space of Sun Elite City enters one of the most exciting times of the day, when the night market opens and exciting interactive activities take place continuously. Street music, a rich food court, souvenir stalls and exciting games create a very different version of Bai Chay - attractive, youthful and vibrant like never before.

The food stalls are eye-catching with grilled skewers, seafood, traditional cakes and cool drinks. Right in the middle of that space are mini-activities taking place throughout: stirring up with quick and fun mini-games with the audience; free balloon twisting to create shapes that fascinate children; friendly mascot characters ready to take pictures with visitors. In particular, the tall "light robots" moving through each area create modern visual highlights, making the atmosphere more lively. Next to that are young bands performing in street style, creating a background for conversations, gatherings to "chill" to the music with friends by Halong bay.

Party at Bai Chay beach

For tourists who love the excitement of Bai Chay at night, the bars, pubs and beach clubs along the beach are ideal choices to continue the fun after the brilliant fireworks and bustling shopping at the night market.

Just walking along Ky Quan Street - connecting Sun Carnival Square with the central beach, visitors can easily come across a series of entertainment venues that are open until late at night such as Valley Beach Club, Bistro Fou Beach Club, Chill Beach Bar... Open space near the sea, vibrant music, bright lights - all create memorable night experiences. Each place has its own "mood": there is a vibrant place with DJs and stage lights, a chill place with acoustic music, or simply a cocktail table overlooking the sea, where people can clink glasses and listen to the sound of the waves.

Any visitor to Bai Chay, Quang Ninh can now find their own version of the night – vibrant or romantic, liberal or peaceful. And perhaps, that is also part of the attraction that makes Bai Chay gradually become the most attractive sleepless night destination in northern Vietnam.

Source: Explore the most vibrant nightlife destination in Quang Ninh

Quang Ninh tourism strives to approach key Korean market

In late July, the Quang Ninh Tourism Delegation organized a program to promote Quang Ninh tourism in Korea. Many large tourism and service enterprises of the province also participated. Private Halong bay cruises

Within the framework of the working trip, the Quang Ninh tourism promotion program with the theme "Shape of Quang Ninh" took place with the participation of representatives of the Vietnamese Embassy in Korea and 150 delegates who are leaders of travel businesses and press agencies in Korea.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Ninh, affirmed that Quang Ninh always considers Korea as a strategic international market, with a stable number of visitors and steady growth over the years. Organizing tourism promotion in Seoul this time demonstrates the province's strong commitment to expanding cooperation, creating the most favorable conditions for Korean businesses to exploit, invest and organize tours to bring visitors to Quang Ninh.

Quang Ninh is constantly innovating and developing diverse tourism products to suit the tastes of the Korean market, such as: high-end island resort tourism, golf tourism, experiencing local culture, health care and beauty; at the same time, continuing to invest in synchronous infrastructure and high-quality tourism services. The province especially focuses on developing tourism in a sustainable, green and smart direction, associated with preserving local heritage and culture.

At the program, many new tourism products exclusively for Korean tourists were introduced, such as: Halong Bay - Yen Tu - Bai Tu Long heritage connection tour, 5-star cruise experience tour, high-class island resort, health and beauty care tourism program, golf tourism, shopping at leading commercial centers in Quang Ninh province...

Speaking at the event, Commercial Counselor, Embassy of Vietnam in Korea, highly appreciated the efforts of Quang Ninh province and said that the “Shape of Quang Ninh” program is a symbol of dynamism, creativity and determination to integrate internationally in the field of tourism and services. He emphasized: Quang Ninh possesses outstanding advantages from the world natural wonder of Halong Bay, modern tourism infrastructure, to friendly and professional human resources. This is an ideal condition for Korean enterprises to cooperate and exploit effectively in the coming time.

He also proposed 4 key orientations for Quang Ninh tourism in the coming time, including: Strengthening promotion at major tourism fairs in Korea; developing charter tours directly connecting Quang Ninh - Seoul/Busan; promoting digital communication through KOLs, travel bloggers; creating favorable conditions for Korean investors in the tourism sector in Quang Ninh.

The highlight of the program was the business-to-business (B2B) connection between Quang Ninh tourism and service businesses and Korean travel agencies. The two sides exchanged information, sought partners, introduced tours and routes, and developed a cooperation plan to bring Korean tourists to Quang Ninh in the near future.

The Quang Ninh tourism promotion program in Korea in 2025 is an important activity, part of the series of programs implementing the province's tourism development plan, while contributing to the realization of the GRDP growth target and enhancing the position of Quang Ninh tourism in the international arena. This is also an opportunity to establish long-term cooperative relationships, aiming to strongly attract Korean tourists to the heritage land of Quang Ninh - an attractive and safe destination of Vietnam tourism.

Source: Quang Ninh organizes tourism promotion in Korea

Da Nhay beach, a masterpiece of natural sculpture

Da Nhay beach or Bai Da Nhay is one of the famous tourist destinations in Quang Binh province, Vietnam. This place is known as "a masterpiece of sea sculpture" with giant limestone blocks, many unique and interesting shapes. Private tour packages to Vietnam

Da Nhay beach is located about 30 km north of Dong Hoi city, in Thanh Trach and Hai Trach communes, Bo Trach district. This beach is located right on National Highway 1A, part of the North-South highway. This place was also an important military position during the war under the Le dynasty.

Origin of the name

The name Da Nhay or "Dancing Rock" comes from the erosion of the sea waves. Over time, the giant limestone blocks here have been eroded, creating unique and strange shapes. When the waves hit, these rocks undulate as if they were dancing.

Da Nhay beach is made up of giant limestone blocks, 3 to 4 meters high, undulating, stacked on top of each other. These blocks of rock have many different shapes, they can be elephants, buffaloes, toads, tigers,... or the shape of giant mushrooms depending on each person's imagination.

Besides the undulating rocks, Bai Da Nhay also has a white sand beach, clear blue water, and gentle waves. This is an ideal place for tourists to swim, relax, and immerse themselves in nature.

Activities to do when coming to Da Nhay beach

- Water activities: thanks to the wide beach, clean and cool water, visitors can participate in recreational activities such as swimming, boating,...

- Explore the pine forest: along the beach are rows of pine forests, if you don't like the hot weather outside the beach, take a walk in the forest!

- Overnight camping: many tent rental services, food and drink, etc. are provided right next to the sea, so visitors can also organize team building activities, campfires, singing and playing to create many memorable memories together.

- Enjoy seafood: Da Nhay is a beach with many fresh seafood restaurants. Coming here, visitors can enjoy famous seafood dishes in Quang Binh such as Ram Den, Shrimp, Crab, Fish salad, Seafood porridge...

Best time to travel to Da Nhay beach

The best time to travel to Bai Da Nhay is in the summer, from April to September. At this time, the weather in Quang Binh is sunny, with little rain, and the sea is calm, suitable for fun and entertainment activities.

How to get to Da Nhay beach

To get to Bai Da Nhay, visitors can go by motorbike, car or bus.

- If traveling by motorbike or car, visitors follow National Highway 1A to the North. When reaching Ly Hoa Pass, visitors will see the rock field right next to the road.

- If traveling by bus, visitors can take the bus route Dong Hoi - Ba Don. This route will pass through Da Nhay Beach.

- If going from Phong Nha town, visitors should go in the direction of Phong Nha - Cu Nam - Cau Gianh - along Highway 1A to Da Nhay.

Notes when traveling to Bai Da Nhay

- When swimming, visitors should be careful of the waves.

- Do not climb on high rocks, be careful when moving.

- Do not litter, keep public hygiene.

Bai Da Nhay is an attractive tourist destination, with the wild and majestic beauty of nature. When coming to Quang Binh, visitors should not forget to visit this place to explore and enjoy the wonderful beauty of this beach.

Source: Da Nhay beach in Quang Binh

Visit Happy Land Halong Eco-tourism Area

The cool, spacious green space with swimming pool, camping spot in the forest, many new games... are the highlights that bring joy and excitement to children and adults at Happy Land (Khe Khoai village, Thong Nhat commune, Halong city). The interesting thing is that this new destination is convenient in terms of transportation, only about 1 hour drive from the center of Halong city. Halong Bay Travel

Summer is coming, surely many parents and students are still wondering, choosing a place to have fun, summer vacation for the family or students, how to suit the time, short travel distance or convenient services to experience... Located in a cool green residential area, Happy Land is not far from the center of Thong Nhat commune (Halong city), is quite an ideal choice. 

The first impression is the experience area shaded by large, old trees; the gurgling waterfall and the flat space as far as the eye can see. Mr  Huyen, manager of the experience area said: We have had the idea for a long time to build a green space as a place for students to play and experience and a weekend getaway for families. With the available area of perennial forest, we designed more waterfalls and planted grass. In particular, we try our best to preserve the perennial trees to provide shade for the forms of experience and services under the shade of the trees and forest canopy.

With an area of about 2 hectares, not far from the center of Thong Nhat commune, this destination is cleverly designed, combining artificial space and cool natural space. The management block and restaurant are neatly arranged on one side. On the other side is a forest, a lawn with large, long-standing green trees designed in a continuous strip, creating a good impression when visitors come to visit.

The space is designed to be very "chill", for those who are passionate about taking "check-in" photos, the photo angles next to the forest, the grass next to the waterfall or the swings on the big trees... can become the perfect background for a beautiful photo. 

Along with that, this destination also attracts tourists with many convenient services, such as: Swimming pool, playground, large yard that can organize team building, dining activities, BBQ parties... Next to it is a planted forest space, about 1 hectare wide, located on a low, gradually sloping hill, where more than 10 canvas tents are arranged for young people and family groups to camp and experience the natural space.

Therefore, here visitors can choose to camp, prepare your own food or enjoy local dishes at Happy Land's restaurant with a large space that can serve 250-300 guests. Currently, this eco-tourism area has completed 2 more community guesthouses and 2 homestays to meet the needs of tourists for a day's rest.

Coming here, children can enjoy the fresh air, freely immerse themselves in the cool water of the large and beautiful swimming pool. Not only that, Happy Land also organizes attractive games, increasing the entertainment experience for children.

According to the eco-park manager, this is currently a destination that attracts many students to participate in experiences or organize year-end parties, and is also a place where families go on weekends. This place is especially popular in the morning and evening, when the weather is less hot.

Huyen added: In the coming time, Happy Land will aim to build an eco-tourism area with a variety of fun activities for children and students. The tourist area is under construction and will soon have more experience points such as vegetable gardens, zoos... Visitors will be supported by staff to guide and introduce activities and suitable entertainment spots.

To get to Happy Land, visitors can go from the center of Halong City along Cao Xanh Street, cross Bang Bridge, turn into Thong Nhat Commune or from Bai Chay follow Love Bridge to the commune. The road is beautiful and convenient.

Entrance fees to Happy Land Halong

- Adult or children over 1.4m: 50,000 VND / person

- Children from 1m to 1.4m: 30,000 VND / person

- Children under 1m: Free

- Free entrance for people with contributions in the wars

- Free entrance for disabled people (with certificate)

Inclusions:

- Unlimited free time to play during the day at Happy Land campus;

- Free use of swimming pool, children's play area, zoo visit;

Note : 100% free admission for:

- Guests using overnight accommodation services;

- Guests book food service at the restaurant.

Source: Interesting experience at Happy Land Halong

In-depth cooperation model between Hanoi tourism businesses

The 'Green Island Symphony' tour alliance connecting Cat Ba - Hai Phong is implemented by Hanoi Unesco Travel Club (HUTC) in coordination with Sun World Group (Sun Group), bringing new experiences with classy shows, attractive food tours, 4-star resorts and preferential prices. Cheap tours to Vietnam

The “Green Island Symphony” tour is designed as a summer-inspired experience for 2 days and 1 night. Visitors will travel by the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car ; visit the Bach Dang Giang relic site; immerse themselves in a spectacular show on the sea and end with a Hai Phong food tour with delicious specialties.

The highlight of the tour is the international-class art and sports performance on the sea combined with fireworks in the central bay of Cat Ba. International athletes coordinate in jetski, flyboard and jetsurf formations - extreme sports that are already challenging in standard conditions, now programmed with a system of music, lights, fireworks and lasers that match every second. The show has just set two Guinness World Records at the same time: "Jetski Fireworks Show with the largest formation in the world" and "Most acrobatic flyboard athlete in one minute".

The “Green Island Symphony” tour is the result of a typical multilateral cooperation model, when 7 businesses in Hai Phong joined hands to create a high-quality tourism product, professionally operated but still ensuring accessible prices for the majority of tourists.

With the sharing of infrastructure, services, and communications, the alliance offers prices from VND 2,250,000/person, 30% - 40% lower than individual travelers. Not only does it help optimize costs for tourists, this alliance model also ensures stability in weekly tour operations, proactively sources input, and provides good support for travel agencies in building an ecosystem of short-term tourism products around Hanoi.

Speaking about the new tour of Hai Phong city, Mr Ngoan said that the show "Green Island Symphony" is not just a simple entertainment product, but an international art product that previously had to be experienced in Singapore. The tour is designed to be compact, convenient, suitable for everyone from the elderly to families with young children. The cable car system operates all night to serve visitors to watch the show - a flexible solution, optimizing time and experience of traveling from Hai Phong to Cat Ba and vice versa.

The “Green Island Symphony” tour is a typical example of the mindset of renewing tourism products based on familiar destinations. “Cat Ba is a destination that attracts both domestic and international visitors, but only when there is a high-class live show will the tourism brand here truly break through. The short tour itinerary but rich in experience, professional operation and reasonable price, is the premise for developing sustainable tourism products all year round, not just seasonally,” Ngoan added.

In his role as program coordinator, Mr Anh from HUTC, said that the “Green Island Symphony” tour alliance is not just a single product, but the first step in the strategy of building a short-term tour ecosystem of 2 days and 1 night around Hanoi. “We are preparing to expand a similar model in Ha Nam, Ninh Binh, Quang Ninh, creating a chain of products to serve tourists all year round, while improving the competitiveness of the capital’s travel business community.”.

The birth of the “Green Island Symphony” tour alliance shows that the model of in-depth tourism cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises and large service providers is completely feasible, bringing dual benefits to both tourists and organizers.

In the context of the domestic tourism market being reshaped towards short-term, good-priced, and rich-experience tourism, the tourism alliance model is the key to opening up a more sustainable and proactive future for Vietnamese travel businesses.

Source: Hanoi - Hai Phong tourism connection launched

Tien Giang tourism awakening potential of cultural and historical values

Tien Giang focuses on exploiting the value of cultural, historical and ecological relics to create unique tourism products, attracting a large number of domestic and foreign tourists to visit, research, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the locality. Tailor-made Vietnam tours

According to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Tien Giang province, the locality currently has over 2,100 historical and cultural relics, including archaeological relics, revolutionary history relics, religious relics and architectural and artistic relics. Of these, 21 historical and cultural relics have been ranked at the national level and 86 historical and cultural relics at the provincial level, creating a colorful picture of the country and people of Tien Giang with long-standing traditional cultural beauty crystallized over thousands of years. Most of the historical and cultural relics are places for religious, spiritual activities, honoring cultural values, being a rich source of materials in the study of regional and ethnic cultures, and at the same time being attractive destinations for tourists.

Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Tien Giang province Vo Pham Tan informed: The strength of Tien Giang tourism is associated with historical and ecological cultural relics such as: Oc Eo and Go Thanh cultural relics from the 1st to 6th centuries in Cho Gao district; Rach Gam - Xoai Mut historical relic in Chau Thanh district, Ap Bac victory relic in Cai Lay district, Phao Dai rampart in Tan Phu Dong district; many tombs and temples such as Truong Dinh tomb, Hoang Gia tomb, Vinh Trang pagoda, Sac Tu pagoda...

For the freshwater ecosystem tourism area in the West, an attractive destination is the cultural heritage of Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village in Dong Hoa Hiep commune, Cai Be district. Along with Duong Lam village in Hanoi and Phuoc Tich village in Hue, Dong Hoa Hiep village is one of three ancient villages in Vietnam that have been selected by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to implement the Project "Supporting the Promotion of the Role of the Community in Sustainable Development in Vietnam, through Heritage Tourism" since 2003.

Vice Chairman of Cai Be District People's Committee Le Van Y said: Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village attracts tourists to explore the ancient architecture and patterns of the South, expressed through the wooden panels, the elaborately carved columns and beams, imbued with the cultural architecture of the Southern garden houses, which are over 100 years old. The ancient houses are interspersed with fruit gardens, creating a rustic yet poetic beauty.

Coming to the mangrove ecosystem tourism area in the East of Tien Giang, tourists can visit the national historical and cultural relic Royal Tomb in Long Hung ward (Go Cong town) to learn and know more about the birthplace of a virtuous Queen Mother - Tu Du. The Royal Tomb was built in 1826, including the tomb and temple of Pham Dang Hung, the maternal grandfather of King Tu Duc, the father of Queen Mother Tu Du, the wife of King Thieu Tri, the tomb is located about 2 km from the city center.

In addition, visitors cannot miss a special national relic, the Truong Dinh Uprising sites in Tien Giang province, including: Truong Dinh Tomb and Temple (Go Cong town); Truong Dinh Temple, Dark Leaf Field (Gia Thuan commune), Dinh Pond (Tan Phuoc commune), Go Cong Dong district; Phao Dai Rampart (Phu Tan commune, Tan Phu Dong district). Visitors can learn about the life and career of National Hero Truong Dinh, a shining highlight that adds to the heroic history of the nation's fight against foreign invaders...

Go Cong town also attracts tourists with dozens of ancient houses over 100 years old with unique East-West architecture such as Governor Nguyen Van Hai's house (at 9 Hai Ba Trung street) built in 1860; Trung communal house built in the late 19th century...

To develop the potential of cultural and historical tourism, Tien Giang has focused on introducing and promoting local tourism products and images, paying attention to exploiting new tours to attract tourists; cooperation and linkage activities are increasingly expanded and more practical. Travel businesses proactively build tours, routes and expand the tourism market between Tien Giang and other regions.

In the first 5 months of 2025, the number of tourists to Tien Giang was 679,000, reaching 32.3% of the plan. International visitors were 234,000, reaching 33.4% of the plan. Total revenue from accommodation, food and beverage services, travel services and tourism support activities, and other consumer services reached 9,143 billion VND.

Vo Pham Tan said: With rich and diverse potential and advantages in natural resources and a long history and culture, Tien Giang is becoming an attractive destination for tourists. Exploiting tourism potential reasonably, combining visits to historical and cultural relics will create conditions for sustainable development of Tien Giang tourism to meet the needs of tourists in the integration period.

Tien Giang currently has nearly 20 operating travel agencies, over 200 passenger transport boats, nearly 100 restaurants and hotels constantly improving the quality of services and products to meet the needs of domestic and international tourists.

In 2025, Tien Giang aims to welcome about 2.1 million tourists, including 700,000 international visitors, and tourism revenue of VND1,507 billion.

Source: Cultural and historical tourism in Tien Giang land

Presstrip becomes a bridge connecting Lao Cai Tourism

Not simply an experiential trip, the press trip within the framework of the Lao Cai International Tourism Fair 2025 has become a bridge connecting the media and the tourism industry. The press trip is a “golden” opportunity for Lao Cai’s typical tourism products to be more widely communicated on the Vietnamese and international tourism map. Private Sapa tours

Participating in the presstrip within the framework of the Lao Cai International Tourism Fair 2025, Vu Mai - reporter of Vietnam Travel Magazine said that this was the second time she set foot in Sapa. During this trip, she had many good impressions of the people, landscapes and local tourism services. Since the beginning of the journey, Mai has continuously recorded videos and taken photos at the destinations and could not hide her surprise and delight at the dramatic changes of the Sapa National Tourist Area.

Mai excitedly said: “Right after the trip, I will share the images and clips recorded during this journey. The pristine and majestic scenery of Sapa combined with its unique cultural identity will certainly attract the attention of readers.”

As for journalist Ho Sy Luc, although he has been to Lao Cai many times, this trip still brought him many surprises. "I see that the number of tourists coming to Sapa is higher now, but the work of preserving and conserving the natural landscape is still being done well. I went to the Cat Cat community tourism site and was impressed by the wooden steps that were simply designed for tourists to walk, both convenient and minimizing the impact on nature. The waterfalls, flowers, and ornamental plants are cleverly preserved. I see that Sapa is moving towards the image of green tourism and sustainable development," said journalist Ho Sy Luc.

Luc also said: During this trip, I recorded many images and had the opportunity to meet tourism managers, representatives of accommodation facilities and destinations. As someone interested in topics such as ecotourism, environmental protection, and preservation of ethnic cultures, this will be valuable material for me to write many in-depth articles in the future.

Within the framework of the Lao Cai International Tourism Fair 2025, the Provincial Tourism Information and Promotion Center (Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism) organized a survey program for the press delegation in Sapa town with the participation of 20 press agencies inside and outside the province. The delegation surveyed many typical tourist destinations such as Lan Rung brocade craft village cluster, Cat Cat community tourism site, Hotel de la Coupole, Sapa Jade Hill, Topas Ecolodge. At each destination, in addition to the experience, reporters and journalists also directly discussed with representatives of tourist establishments about the orientation of developing green and sustainable tourism; learning about issues related to protecting the ecological environment, applying renewable energy in operations; the role of the community in tourism activities, especially the use of local labor to improve service quality and create sustainable livelihoods for people.

At the Lan Rung brocade craft village cluster and the Cat Cat community tourism site, reporters and journalists had the opportunity to talk with artisans to understand their efforts to preserve indigenous cultural values in the context of rapidly developing tourism. Many reporters were interested and excited to listen to people sharing their traditional embroidery and weaving techniques. Vo Van Tai, Director of Lan Rung said: “Through this survey trip, I hope that journalists and reporters will further spread the image of traditional brocade made by the hands of ethnic minorities, bringing the products closer to domestic and international tourists. That is also a way to preserve culture, increase the value of local products and create long-term livelihoods for people in the highlands”.

In the context of global tourism shifting strongly towards sustainability, the role of the media is not only to promote destinations, but also to contribute to shaping awareness and changing tourists' behavior. The media becomes an important bridge to help convey the message of a Sapa that is not only beautiful, but also green, humane and responsible. Images of wooden stairs, streams that still retain their wild beauty, or stories about ethnic artisans embroidering brocade at the Lan Rung brocade village cluster... when honestly and vividly reported by the press will not only touch the emotions of readers, but also create social consensus, helping tourists choose destinations more responsibly.

In the tourism development strategy of Lao Cai province, the tourism industry clearly identifies the role of the media in promotion, destination image building and brand development.

Tran Son Binh, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism said: “We attach great importance to communication work, because only with the support of the press, will Lao Cai destinations have the opportunity to reach closer to the people and tourists. Through press activities within the framework of the Lao Cai International Tourism Fair 2025, we hope that the image of Lao Cai destination and its unique tourism products will spread more widely.”

This presstrip is not only an opportunity to experience, film or write articles, but also a journey of connection, companionship and development between journalists and tourism workers. Through the media, the cultural values, nature and people of Lao Cai continue to shine, contributing to enhancing the local tourism brand on the journey of integration and sustainable development.

Source: Presstrip creates opportunities to promote Lao Cai tourism

Travel to Halong bay 2025 - How much does it cost

The latest updated Halong Bay entrance fees in 2025 offers visitors many options to suit budget and schedule. Before choosing a suitable journey, visitors need to understand the basic costs when traveling to Halong Bay. Currently, ticket prices are divided into many different categories such as entrance tickets, sightseeing boat tickets, service tickets... Currently, Halong Bay has 8 main routes as follows: Private charter cruises in Halong bay

Day trips:

- VHL1 route: Port - Thien Cung Cave - Dau Go Cave - Hon Cho Da - Hang Ba Hang - Hon Dinh Huong - Hon Trong Mai, ticket price: 250,000 VND/person.

- VHL2 route: Port - Soi Sim Beach - Ti Top Island - Sung Sot Cave - Vung Tung Sau - Me Cung Cave - Bo Nau Cave - Luon Cave - Trong Cave - Trinh Nu Cave - Dong Tien Lake, ticket price: 250,000 VND/person.

- VHL3 route: Port - Cua Van Floating Cultural Center - Tien Ong Cave - Ba Ham Lake - Ba Men Temple - Ang Du - Bamboo Forest, ticket price: 200,000 VND/person.

- VHL4 route: Port - Hang Co - Hang Thay - Hang Cap La - Vong Vieng - Tung Ang Ecological Area - Cong Do Island - Hon Xep Park, ticket price: 200,000 VND/person.

- VHL5 route: Port - Thien Cung Cave - Dau Go Cave - Hon Cho Da - Ba Hang - Hon Dinh Huong - Hon Trong Mai - Gia Luan Wharf, ticket price: 250,000 VND/person.

In addition, there is a promotion program applicable from May 1, 2025 for the following routes:

- VHL6 route: Port - Hon Chan Voi - Vung Ba Cua - Tung Lam Island - Hon Cap Bai, ticket price: 150,000 VND/person.

- VHL7 route: Combines VHL1, VHL2, VHL3, VHL4 itineraries - only applicable to luxury cruises, ticket price: 600,000 VND/person.

- VHL8 Coastal route: Tuan Chau Port - Halong Port - Nam Cau Trang Port, ticket price: 70,000 VND/person.

Overnight stay on Halong Bay: (Maximum stay for 1 night is 24 hours, 2 nights is 48 hours from the time of departure).

- Route 2: Stay 1 night: Visit Trong cave, Trinh Nu cave, Dong Tien lake, Lat island 690, Ti Top island 587, ticket price: 550,000 VND/person, stay 2 nights: Same as 1 night stay, ticket price: 750,000 VND/person.

- Route 3: Stay 1 night in Tien Ong cave area, ticket price: 500,000 VND/person, stay 2 nights in Tien Ong cave area, ticket price: 650,000 VND/person.

- Route 4: Stay 1 night in Cong Do area, ticket price: 500,000 VND/person, stay 2 nights in Cong Do area, ticket price: 650,000 VND/person.

Sightseeing cruise to visit Halong Bay

Boat rental costs account for most of the budget for a tour of Halong Bay and depend on private boat or shared boat:

- Shared boat: 150,000 - 250,000 VND/person, private boat: 1,500,000 - 5,000,000 VND/trip.

However, there will be additional service such as:

Kayaking or bamboo boat: 50,000 VND/person. Lunch on the boat: About 150,000 - 250,000 VND/person. Private tour guide: 300,000 - 500,000 VND/day.

Depending on time and preferences, visitors can choose the appropriate type of Halong Bay cruise tour.

- 4 hour cruise tour

The 4-hour Halong Bay cruise tour is an ideal choice for travelers with limited time. Time frame: Morning (8am-12pm) or Afternoon (1pm-5pm). 

Popular itinerary: Hon Ga Choi - Hon Dinh Huong - Thien Cung Cave or Dau Go Cave. Tour price: 600,000 - 750,000 VND/person.

- 6 hour cruise tour

The 6-hour tour offers a valuable experience of exploring Halong in one day. Time frame: 8am-2pm or 12pm-6pm.

Itinerary: Sung Sot Cave - Luon Cave - Ti Top Island - kayaking or swimming. Tour price: 750,000 - 850,000 VND/person.

- Deluxe 8-hour cruise tour

The 8-hour deluxe cruise tour for tourists who want to enjoy luxury and classy service. Time frame: 8am-4pm. 

Services: Lunch buffet, bar, sightseeing deck, relaxing chairs. Tour price: 890,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person.

- 2 days 1 night cruise tour

If visitors want to enjoy the unique feeling of sleeping overnight in the middle of the bay, the 2-day 1-night tour is the right choice.

General itinerary

Day 1: Visit cave, Soi Sim island, swim, dinner on boat. 

Day 2: Explore Bright Cave - Dark Cave, kayak, finish about 11.00 am

Tour price ranges from: 2,500,000 - 4,000,000 VND/person.

- 3 days 2 nights cruise tour

If you really want to get away from the city and enjoy pristine nature, don't miss the 3-day, 2-night tour that promises to bring extremely interesting and memorable experiences. 

General itinerary

Day 1: Check in, visit the famous cave, dinner on board. 

Day 2: Visit the distant bay with activities such as kayaking, swimming...

Day 3: Rest, return guests to the pier by 11.00 am

Tour price: 4,500,000 - 6,500,000 VND/person.

Source: Updated entrance fees to Halong Bay in 2025

Con Dao tourism focuses on preserving environment and local culture

Con Dao, or Con Lon island, a cultural, historical and spiritual tourist destination of Ba Ria - Vung Tau province, is undergoing dramatic changes in its pursuit of the goal of building and developing a green, circular economic model based on the promotion of natural resources and a system of special national historical relics. Private tours to Vietnam

One of the most impressive points for tourists, especially those who have been to Con Dao in previous years, is the movement to respond to the "Green Gift Basket" campaign that has spread strongly, contributing to significantly reducing the amount of plastic waste as well as discouraging the burning of votive paper at destinations in Con Dao.

Many environmental protection programs

For a long time, most tourists coming to Con Dao mainly came to pay their respects to the tomb of Miss Sau - Hero of the People's Armed Forces Vo Thi Sau. In previous years, in addition to fruits and flowers, there were also items such as clothes, shoes, votive paper money, etc. decorated on the offerings to Miss Sau. However, Con Dao has now undergone many changes in its campaign to build a green, clean and beautiful Con Dao environment.

A tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, said that every year, she goes to Con Dao to make offerings to Co Sau. This year, when she went to buy offerings, she was quite surprised to see that the offerings did not include votive paper, but instead contained real items. Explaining this change, the sales staff said that currently, cemeteries and relics in Con Dao implement "Green Offering Baskets" on all days of the year. Accordingly, pilgrims are not allowed to make offerings of votive paper, write petitions, burn votive paper, use disposable plastic items, and the offering trays are not allowed to use floral foam. Customers making offerings are only allowed to offer fresh flowers with fruit, the "Green Offering Basket" models: do not use floral foam or the offering trays use 100% real offerings.

Many tourists commented that Con Dao still retains its pristine natural forests, and in particular, its awareness of environmental hygiene is very good. Con Dao is made up of 16 large and small islands, of which the main central island concentrates administrative agencies, residents and the entire infrastructure system serving the lives of the people and tourists. This change will contribute to raising awareness and environmental quality.

In fact, since 2023, Ba Ria - Vung Tau province has had a Project on Research and Application of Circular Economic Model to Serve Sustainable Socio-Economic Development of Con Dao District in the period of 2022-2025, with a vision to 2030. The tasks and strategies set out are to address existing environmental and energy challenges in Con Dao, thereby building the foundation, infrastructure and social resources, aiming at the goal of sustainable economic development for Con Dao.

On that basis, environmental protection programs in Con Dao were implemented such as: developing a plan to Say No to the burning of votive offerings, the "Green Offering Basket" campaign, minimizing plastic waste... to focus on the goal of greening Con Dao.

Along with environmental protection programs, Con Dao also invests in building self-managed roads and sections of roads for environmental sanitation, ensuring urban beauty and order, planting flowers and trees along the roads, cleaning the environment, equipping 3-color trash cans to classify waste at source, replacing disposable plastic materials with long-lasting, environmentally friendly items... These programs have contributed to gradually greening Con Dao.

For a green Con Dao

Most tourists are increasingly interested in civilized tourism, sustainable tourism, minimizing environmental impacts and respecting local culture. Besides spiritual tourism, experiences and natural exploration in Con Dao are popular with tourists.

In 2024, Ba Ria - Vung Tau province organized a Famtrip Program to survey and connect tourist destinations in Con Dao and provinces and cities in the Southeast region in Con Dao district. Delegates attending the program conducted a survey and assessment of the potential and advantages of tourism development and proposed and introduced tours linking the Southeast region with Con Dao. Through the famtrip program, a number of new tourism programs have been formed such as: a program to visit Con Dao by speedboat; coordinating to provide a list and information of 10 beautiful and unique destinations in the province to promote to localities in the Southeast region.

Source: Green tourism in Con Dao island

מהו האוכל הפופולרי ביותר בווייטנאם?

חופשה זולה לווייטנאם - וייטנאם היא גן עדן לאוהבי אוכל! המדינה ידועה במטבח המגוון, הטרי ובעל הטעמים שלה, המשתנה מאזור לאזור. הנה כמה מהדברים הטובים ביותר לאכול כשאתה בוייטנאם:

1. פו (Phở)

• מה זה: זהו המנה הכי מפורסמת של וייטנאם, מרק נודלס עם בשר בקר (pho bò) או עוף (pho gà), עשבי תיבול טריים, נבטים ולימון. ציר המרק מבושל במשך שעות כדי להשיג טעמים עמוקים.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: פו אפשר למצוא בכל מקום, אבל בהאנוי הפו בשר בקר מאוד פופולרי, בעוד שבסייגון הפו עם עוף מאוד נפוץ.

2. באן מִי (Bánh Mì)

• מה זה: סנדוויץ' וייטנאמי טעים שמורכב מבאגט פריך עם מגוון מילויים כמו בשר צלוי, פטה, נקניקים, ירקות כבושים, כוסברה ופלפל חריף. זהו פיוז'ן מושלם בין המטבח הצרפתי לוייטנאמי.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: אפשר למצוא ברחוב בכל רחבי וייטנאם, אך במיוחד כדאי לנסות את באן מִי פוונג בהוי אן, שהיא מפורסמת בזכות חומרי הגלם האיכותיים שלה.

3. באן סאו (Bánh Xèo)

• מה זה: פנקייקים וייטנאמיים מלוחים עשויים מקמח אורז, כורכום וחלב קוקוס, ממולאים בחזיר, שרימפס, נבטים ועשבי תיבול. הם מטוגנים עד שהם פריכים ונהוג לאכול אותם עם חסה ורוטב טבילה.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: מנה פופולרית בדרום וייטנאם, במיוחד בסייגון ובדלתא של המקונג.

4. גוי קואן (Gỏi Cuốn) – רולים טריים

• מה זה: רולים טריים עשויים מדפי אורז, ממולאים בשרימפס, חזיר, עשבי תיבול טריים, אטריות אורז וחסה. הם מוגשים עם רוטב טבילה של חמאת בוטנים או רוטב הויסין. זהו מאכל קל ורענן, מושלם לאקלים חמים.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: אפשר למצוא ברחוב בכל רחבי וייטנאם, במיוחד בדרום, בסייגון.

5. קאו לאו (Cao Lầu)

• מה זה: מנה מיוחדת מהוי אן, המורכבת מאטריות עבות וצ'ייביות, עם פרוסות חזיר, עשבי תיבול טריים, וקריספי חזיר. הציר עשיר אך לא נוזלי מדי, וזה שונה מפו.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: המנה פופולרית בהוי אן.

6. קום טאם (Cơm Tấm) – אורז שבור

• מה זה: קום טאם הוא מנה של אורז שבור, שמוגש עם חזיר צלוי, בדרך כלל עם ביצה מטוגנת, ירקות כבושים ורוטב דגים. זהו מאכל דרום-וייטנאמי קלאסי.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: פופולרי בסייגון, במיוחד במסעדות המתמחות במנה.

7. בּוּן צ'ה (Bún Chả)

• מה זה: מאכל המיוחס להאנוי, המורכב מחזיר צלוי (כולל גם בשר חזיר שומן וקציצות חזיר) המוגש בציר חמוץ-מתוק עם אטריות אורז ועשבי תיבול טריים. לרוב מוגש עם רולים מטוגנים.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: כדאי לנסות בהאנוי! בּוּן צ'ה הוא מאכל פופולרי מאוד בעיר, ואם תגיעו ל-Bún Chả Hương Liên (שם אובמה אכל), זה יהיה חוויה.

8. הוּ טִיו (Hu Tieu)

• מה זה: מרק אטריות עם ציר עשיר, לרוב מוגש עם סוגים שונים של בשר, מהחזיר ועד לפירות ים. זהו מאכל פופולרי במיוחד באזור דלתת המקונג, אבל גם בסייגון.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: בסייגון או באזור דלתת המקונג.

9. מי קוואנג (Mì Quảng)

• מה זה: מנה אטריות מתערובת כורכום עם ציר עשיר, עשבי תיבול, בוטנים קלויים ומבחר של בשר (חזיר, עוף, שרימפס).

• איפה כדאי לנסות: בעיקר במרכז וייטנאם, במיוחד בדא נאנג ובקוונג נאם.

10. צ'ה (Chè)

• מה זה: קינוח וייטנאמי מתוק, שמגיע במגוון גרסאות – ממנות על בסיס חלב קוקוס ועד למנות עם שעועית מונג, זרעי לוטוס וג'לי. המנה לרוב מוגשת קרה, מה שהופך אותה למתאימה במיוחד בימים חמים.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: אפשר למצוא צ'ה ברחובות בערים רבות, במיוחד בהאנוי.

11. באן בהו (Bánh Bèo)

• מה זה: עוגות אורז קטנות, המוגשות עם שרימפס, בצל פריך, ומלוות ברוטב דגים. זהו חטיף או מנת פתיחה נהדרת.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: במיוחד בהוי, במרכז וייטנאם.

12. קפה וייטנאמי (Cà Phê)

• מה זה: וייטנאם ידועה בתרבות הקפה שלה. הגרסה הכי איקונית היא קפה עם חלב ממותק וקוביות קרח (Cà Phê Sữa Đá), שהיא חזקה, עשירה וממכרת. יש גם קפה ביצה (Cà Phê Trứng), שהוא קפה קרמי עם חלמון ביצה מוקצף, סוכר וחלב ממותק.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: קפה אפשר למצוא בכל מקום בוייטנאם, אבל בהאנוי קפה ביצה הוא מאכל חובה (נסו את Giang Cafe).

13. נמ (Nem) – רולים מטוגנים

• מה זה: רולים מטוגנים פריכים, ממולאים בחזיר, פטריות ואטריות. נהוג לאכול אותם עם חסה ועשבי תיבול ולטבול ברוטב.

• איפה כדאי לנסות: פופולרי בצפון ובמרכז וייטנאם.

טיפ: וייטנאם היא גן עדן לאוכל רחוב, אז אל תפחדו לנסות מנות מקומיות בדוכנים. האוכל הכי טעים נמצא פעמים רבות ברחוב. רק כדאי לוודא שהדוכן מלא במקומיים – בדרך כלל סימן איכות.

איזו מנה נראה לך שתרצה לנסות? או שאולי כבר טסת לוייטנאם וטעמת חלק מהמנות הללו?

Source: מהם הדברים הכי טובים לאכול בוייטנאם?

Peaceful villages attract tourists in Sapa

Besides the bustling city center or town, peaceful villages with fresh nature and many unique ethnic cultures such as Ta Van, Lao Chai, Ta Phin or Y Ty are also ideal choices for tourists. Private Sapa tours

At this time, the villages of Sapa are as beautiful as a picture, the weather is cool, the sky is clear and the trekking routes are beautiful, making them ideal destinations for tourists to experience. Ms. Wednesday, a tourist from London, England, had her first day of vacation with her friends in Sapa. Ta Van village was the stop that she and her friends chose for their trip. Ms. Wednesday said: I find the scenery around here very beautiful, very different from my feelings when I was in the city. So I plan to stay here for a few more days to experience the activities and understand more about the culture and people here.

Walking around the roads in Lao Chai and Ta Van, it is not difficult to see groups of tourists trekking and learning about local brocade products. Not only foreign tourists, but the trend of walking and experiencing the culture of the villages is also popular with many Vietnamese tourists. Binh from Hanoi said: I spent 2 days here and had interesting experiences such as: walking, bathing in medicinal leaves of the Red Dzao people, enjoying ethnic cuisine. I am very satisfied with this trip.

According to records, on this occasion, many homestays in Ta Van and Lao Chai were full of guests, some households had a booking rate of over 80%. Identifying the increasing demand for accommodation, relaxation and service experiences of tourists, service and accommodation establishments have enhanced and upgraded their services. In particular, they have trained a team of staff who are both knowledgeable about ethnic culture and have professional skills to serve tourists.

Mr. Lo A Pho, manager of La Dao Spa & Coffee, Ta Van said: During the holidays, the number of guests experiencing the services increases from 30 - 50%. To meet the needs of tourists, 2 months ago, the facility invited experts to train and educate the staff, ensuring the best response to the resort services here.

To enhance the experience for visitors, in addition to culinary and resort services, some establishments also organize activities such as weaving, beeswax painting, brocade embroidery... Unique handicrafts help visitors understand more about the culture and people of the highlands.

Not only the villages in Sapa have many tourists to experience, the community tourism site of Y Ty commune, Bat Xat district is also expected to attract tourists at the end of the holiday. Currently, in Y Ty commune, there are nearly 30 homestays. All families have prepared the best facilities, ensuring environmental hygiene, food safety and hygiene, ready to bring interesting experiences to tourists.

During this year's Labour holiday, the weather in Y Ty tourist area is quite favorable, with only light rain in the morning, sunny at noon and in the afternoon, with a sea of clouds, but in Y Ty, many homestays are still empty. According to some homestays, this year's Labour holiday is quite long, many tourists choose to go to the South to witness the parade and historical tourist attractions, some establishments have guests booked since May 2, so the first 2 days of the Y Ty holiday are still empty. It is predicted that the number of visitors will increase in the last days of the holiday.

Y Ty promises to be crowded with tourists at the end of the holiday season, there are many interesting options with attractive experiences for tourists when coming to Sapa.

Source: The attraction of village tourism

Ta Xua - paradise on earth of Son La

Like most visitors, we came to Ta Xua - known as "Heaven on Earth of Son La" - from Moc Chau. This is considered the shortest route, only 100km away; from Son La town to Ta Xua is 115km and from Hanoi is 240km away. private tours to Vietnam

From Bac Yen, passing through a winding and dangerous road, only seeing a few small villages of the H'Mong people nestled on the mountainside, we arrived at Ta Xua in the cool weather. Before our eyes was a bustling urban area with all kinds of shops, motels, tourist services, cloud hunting facilities... looking like a part of Sa Pa, or a miniature town in an European country. We were all surprised at the rapid change of a highland that was just a deserted H'Mong village 5 years ago, but is now a colorful tourist town.

Ta Xua is at the end of the cloud hunting season (from October to March of the following year), but tourists and backpackers are still bustling and accommodation establishments, restaurants, cafes... are busy with construction. Unlike Sa Pa, which has many family tourists, Ta Xua is almost exclusively young visitors. The signs of the shops are all associated with clouds, both in Vietnamese and English. Funny enough, there is a restaurant named Chi Bau, related to a backpacker anecdote. The story goes that once a group of backpackers went to the highlands and saw a beautiful flower growing wildly on the mountainside, so they asked a H'Mong man who was herding horses nearby. The ethnic minority guy replied: "chi bau"! (in Mong language it means... "don't know"). Thinking that this was the name of a beautiful and strange flower, the backpacker group happily posted online the image of the newly discovered chi bau flower. Many people flocked to take pictures of the strange flower and it turned out that "chi bau" was not the name of this flower.

Ta Xua’s development potential and tourism appeal are still huge. This highland region has advantages that no other place has.

Located in a primeval forest of 17,650 hectares on the southeastern slope of the Hoang Lien Son range, the terrain is strongly divided, forming many high peaks along the Phu Sa Phin range; of which Ta Xua peak is one of the 15 highest peaks in Vietnam and is a place that is very popular with mountaineering enthusiasts. Many mountain climbing awards have been held here. Quite uniquely, Ta Xua peak is not a single peak but is composed of 3 peaks. Of which, the highest peak of 2,850m is where the Vietnamese flagpole is erected, with a stainless steel top; the second peak still has a flagpole erected by the French; the third peak is lower, located in the middle.

In particular, Ta Xua is also chosen as one of the three “cloud paradises” in the Northwest region, including Lao Than peak and Bach Moc Luong Tu peak in Lao Cai, but Ta Xua is more popular with cloud hunters. Besides, camping and trekking in the forest in Ta Xua are also very interesting. In this primeval forest located in the highlands, there is a very mysterious vegetation with “ancient moss forests” with magical shapes and landscapes.

In addition to Pu Ta Leng, Pusilung (Lai Chau) and Fanxipan (Lao Cai) known as the "kingdom of rhododendron flowers", recently, Ta Xua primeval forest has also been discovered as a place with ancient rhododendron flowers of all colors blooming in February and March, captivating art photographers and flower lovers.

So, checking in Ta Xua along with cloud hunting, you can also climb mountains, trek to see moss and ancient rhododendrons, camp amidst majestic landscapes, fresh air.

Experience the thrill

Backpackers and mountain climbers all agree that conquering Ta Xua peak is never easy, because the terrain of this mountain is complex with steep, undulating, long stretches, and extremely winding climbing routes... But the biggest challenge in the Ta Xua climbing route is... the dinosaur's spine. This is the third peak located among the three peaks of the Pu Sa Phin range, commonly known as Ta Xua. This climbing section is narrow on steep rocky terrain, with deep abysses on both sides. One of the most dangerous but also attractive climbing routes for adventure lovers. Experienced tourist guides here all advise people with a fear of heights or weak hearts... not to take the risk.

The car carrying a group of people into Hang Dong commune just stopped when dozens of Mong youths on motorbikes rushed to offer their services. From the commune center to Chong Tra village, where the 2,500m high mountain range looks like the back of a giant sleeping dinosaur, about 5km away, of which the "back" section is 3km long, said to be a trail, thin as a knife's edge, and when you walk on it, you feel like you are walking on a precarious wall, with deep abysses on both sides.

Although in 2019, to ensure the safety of tourists, the local authorities and people had erected iron stakes and stretched steel wires in difficult climbing sections, sitting on a motorbike hugging a H'Mong boy in first gear while climbing uphill through these sections, my heart skipped a beat and my whole body turned cold every time the two motorbikes kept the same speed and ran in opposite directions to avoid each other; if the wheels deviated by just 10cm, the motorbike would fly into the abyss, and both the person and the motorbike would be lost. There was a section, about 500m long, I had to walk, I had to crawl step by step; my body was sweating, just one careless step and I would fall into the abyss that awaited both sides.

Returning safely to Hang Dong, we breathed a sigh of relief and praised the motorbike taxi drivers here for being as good as circus performers. The “driver” who took me to the dinosaur’s back was Mua A Trung, a second-year student at the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment at Son La University. He said that there were more than 50 motorbike taxi drivers here, all of whom were H'Mong youth, and were most active during weekends and tourist seasons. Trung took advantage of his days off from school to drive a motorbike taxi to earn money, taking 2-3 trips a day. Each round trip was 60,000 VND.

Source: A memorable adventure to Ta Xua

5 Best beaches in Quy Nhon that you should visit

Quy Nhon - a famous island paradise in Central Vietnam with many beautiful clear blue beaches, coming to Quy Nhon - Binh Dinh, visitors not only enjoy diverse local cuisine, the long-standing historical culture of the land of martial arts and literature, but also immerse themselves in the cool, blue water of the wonderful beaches beautiful right in the peaceful coastal city of Quy Nhon. Tailor-made Vietnam tours

Let's check out the top 5 most beautiful beaches in Quy Nhon today, the beaches that are highly appreciated by tourists and also the beaches that welcome the most tourists in Quy Nhon at present.

1. Ky Co Beach

+ Address: Nhon Ly Commune, Quy Nhon town

+ Distance from Quy Nhon: 25 km

+ Entrance fee: 100,000 VND/person

Ky Co Beach is currently the beach that welcomes the most tourists in Quy Nhon. Known as the Maldives paradise of Vietnam, Ky Co owns a beautiful long beach with clear blue water that can be seen all the way to the bottom, the majestic caves that create highlights have turned Ky Co Beach into the most beautiful beach in Quy Nhon - Binh Dinh today.

If you come to Ky Co Beach, you should not miss diving to see coral at Bai Dua - the most beautiful coral diving site in Quy Nhon and visit Eo Gio - the most beautiful place to watch the sunset in Vietnam.

2. Hon Kho Island Beach

+ Address: Nhon Hai Commune, Quy Nhon town, Binh Dinh

+ Distance from Quy Nhon: 20 km

+ Means of transport: Car, Speedboat, Wooden boat of fishermen

Hon Kho is one of the ideal places for swimming and snorkeling. The scenery here is still wild, the water in Hon Kho is very clear and clean, in some places the coral reefs are only 1-2m from the water surface, very suitable for snorkeling.

Here, there are also activities such as jet skiing and kayaking. A special feature of Hon Kho that attracts young people is the extremely beautiful white wooden road along the mountainside. In addition, it is impossible not to mention the unique cross-sea road that is enough to make visitors' hearts flutter.

3. Cu Lao Xanh Beach

+ Address: Nhon Chau Commune, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh

+ Distance from Quy Nhon: 24 km (30 minutes by canoe and 2 hours by wooden boat)

+ Means of transport: Speedboat, Fisherman's wooden boat

Cu Lao Xanh is a beautiful piece of nature that nature has bestowed upon the land of martial arts Binh Dinh. Often called the "Sleeping Pearl", Cu Lao Xanh is located in the middle of a vast, clear sea, covered by green trees and smooth white sand. Visitors will feel the atmosphere of heaven and earth, simplicity and nature when coming here.

Nearly 2 hours by wooden boat or 30 minutes by canoe from Quy Nhon city center, Cu Lao Xanh has emerged as a tourist destination not to be missed when coming to Quy Nhon - Binh Dinh. Currently, Nhon Chau island commune has electricity, which partly promotes the development of local tourism here, many Homestays and hotels have sprung up to serve tourists staying overnight, experiencing the most authentic daily life of fishermen on remote islands.

+ Note: Cu Lao Xanh is still a military island so it does not accept foreign visitors

4. Hoang Hau Beach

+ Address: Ghenh Rang Ward, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh

Located about 3 km southeast of Quy Nhon city center, in Ghenh Rang - Tien Sa tourist area. This is a small beach with a view towards the city center, fresh and airy. When traveling to Quy Nhon, visitors can combine visiting Thi Nhan hill and visiting the poet Han Mac Tu in the Ghenh Rang tourist area.

Hoang Hau Beach is also known as the White Bird Beach, because here there are large, round, smooth rocks that look like giant bird eggs from afar. What could be more exciting than stepping on those rocks with your bare feet? Although a bit risky, it will really be an interesting experience for you.

+ Note: Hoang Hau Beach is only for sightseeing, taking photos, visitors should not swim as it is dangerous

5. Quy Nhon Beach

Located right in the heart of Quy Nhon city, endowed with a golden sand beach running along the cool blue coast, since 2014, Binh Dinh province has relocated the aquaculture activities of the people to renovate and develop Quy Nhon beach into a tourist beach.

The 5km long crescent-shaped beach runs from Mui Tan to Ghenh Rang, deserted with sweet golden sand and murmuring waves. The beach is very close to Xuan Dieu seafood culinary street. Tourists can combine sightseeing in the city with a relaxing beach experience as well as enjoying fresh seafood right here.

Source: Top 5 most beautiful beaches in Quy Nhon visitors should know

How to plan the perfect visit to Can Gio, Saigon

Can Gio is one of the famous tourist destinations of Ho Chi Minh City, with beautiful beaches and pristine nature. If you are looking for an exciting and adventurous trip, Can Gio is a great choice. Saigon travel

Can Gio Beach is a suburban district of Ho Chi Minh City, 50 km from the city center and takes only about 1 hour and 30 minutes to get there. With a quiet space and no high-rise buildings, this is an ideal destination for those who want to get away from the noise of the inner city.

Can Gio District is divided by canals and has no fresh water source, but has many beaches and islands with rare species of animals and plants listed in the Red Book. This unique feature has helped Can Gio become a unique and more attractive destination than anywhere else in Saigon.

Can Gio has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the world's leading biosphere reserves and is known as the "Green Oasis". It is also an important destination in Vietnam.

Places to visit in Can Gio

Thanh An Island

Thanh An Island is a place you should visit when traveling in Can Gio sea area. Although the island area is quite small, tourism services are not yet developed and there are not many entertainment activities, this is still an ideal place to enjoy the fresh air of the sea, explore the simple life of the people of the fishing village and enjoy delicious dishes made from seafood.

When arriving at Thanh An Island, you can travel by ferry from the mainland to the island with the following travel schedules: 6:30, 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:00 and 17:00. The fares is only 10,000 VND/person and the travel time is about 45 minutes.

Although it does not have the splendor of the sunset in Phu Quoc or the pride of the sunset on Nha Trang beach, the sunset on Thanh An island still has its own unique beauty, very gentle and rustic, captivating visitors. If possible, you should spend a night on the island to watch the sunset and feel the peaceful beauty of a small fishing village.

Thieng Lieng Island

Thieng Lieng Island Hamlet is located in Thanh An Island Commune, about 70 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. This is a small island surrounded by rivers and canals, creating a difficult place for tourists to visit.

Thieng Lieng Island is quite small, only about 2,000 hectares and surrounded by water. However, this is one of the ideal places to explore and learn about the simple life of the people here. With more than 200 households living on the island, visitors can chat and learn interesting things about the activities and culture of the local people.

In addition to enjoying the fresh air of the sea, visitors can also participate in activities to experience the life of local people such as: raking salt, carrying salt, fishing, feeding crabs, catching crabs, releasing buoys to raise oysters, setting nets for star goby, setting traps for mudskippers, looking for three-sided crabs at midnight, catching snails in the coconut forest, picking water coconuts... All of these activities are great experiences for you to explore and enjoy the nature here.

Vam Sat forest

Vam Sat forest is a famous eco-tourism destination located in the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, about 60 km from the coast. With an area of over 75,000 hectares, Vam Sat forest is the habitat of many rare and precious species of animals and plants, which are preserved and protected.

Vam Sat forest is a special eco-tourism destination that attracts visitors with the immense green of the forest land and the richness of terrestrial animals, birds, reptiles, etc. Here, visitors can visit, take photos and explore the diverse animal world, and enjoy typical rustic dishes.

In addition, the resort also offers many interesting recreational activities, including boating, camping, cycling, mangrove planting, crocodile fishing and many other activities, bringing unforgettable experiences.

Hang Duong Seafood Market

Hang Duong market is located in Can Gio, where fishermen gather fresh seafood after a day of fishing. The market is characterized by hundreds of seafood pots lined up along the market, giving the first impression of the richness and diversity of seafood.

Different from the quietness of other tourist attractions, Hang Duong market is bustling with the cries and bargaining of buyers and sellers, creating a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. Visitors can freely choose seafood such as snails, squid, octopus... with prices depending on the type.

In addition to buying seafood to bring home to cook, visitors can also enjoy pre-prepared seafood dishes at the market, or go to the nearby beach to sip and enjoy fresh seafood. Hang Duong Market will bring visitors an interesting and unique experience during their trip.

Monkey Island

Monkey Island is a destination not to be missed when traveling to Can Gio, especially for those who love animals and want to explore nature. Called an "island", this tourist area is located right next to the road, motorbikes and cars can enter and exit comfortably and conveniently, you do not have to travel by boat at all.

There are more than 1,000 monkeys of many different species living here. The entrance fee is very affordable, only 30,000 VND/person on weekdays and 35,000 VND/person on holidays.

However, you need to pay attention to your belongings such as phones and bags because the monkeys here are very naughty and often snatch tourists' belongings and run away. In addition to visiting Monkey Island, visitors can also enjoy monkey circus shows, visit the crocodile reserve and experience recreational crocodile fishing.

Sleeping in Can Gio

If you only have half a day to visit Can Gio, you can return to Saigon in the evening of the same day. However, if you want to stay overnight, there are many accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs, from luxury resorts to budget hotels. Here are some places to stay that you can refer to:

Eco Homestay Can Gio

Address: Tac Xuan, Can Thanh Town, Can Gio

Rates: 500,000 - 800,000 VND/night

Hoa Vien Cat Tuong Hotel

Address: Duyen Hai, Can Thanh Town, Can Gio

Rates: 300,000 - 500,000 VND/night

Thai Duong Guesthouse

Address: No. 1, Street No. 1, Long Hoa, Can Gio

Reference price: 300,000 - 500,000 VND/night

How to get there

From Ho Chi Minh City to Can Gio, you can use the following means of transport:

- Bus: You can take bus route 75 from 23/9 Park or bus route 20 from Ben Thanh to Binh Khanh ferry. Here, you buy a ferry ticket and continue to take bus route 90 to the center of Can Thanh commune. You should pay attention to the time to catch the last bus back to the city.

- Motorbike: This is the most convenient means of transport. You just need to go straight on Huynh Tan Phat Street, Nha Be to Binh Khanh Ferry, then buy a ferry ticket for 4,500 VND for motorbikes. After crossing the ferry, you continue straight on the Sat forest road about 40 km to reach the center of Can Thanh commune.

Best time to travel to Can Gio

You can visit Can Gio at any time of the year. Because Can Gio is located in a tropical monsoon climate near the equator, there are only two seasons: rainy season and dry season like other southern provinces. Usually, the rainy season here starts from May to October every year, and from November to April is the hot dry season with an average temperature of 25 - 29 degrees Celsius. The weather here is often sunny, very convenient for sightseeing and entertainment activities.

Although the rainy season in Can Gio does not last long, you should avoid going on rainy days. Rainy days make it difficult to move around and the sea can be rough with strong winds. Therefore, choosing to go on sunny days is the best.

Can Gio beach is a favorite destination for tourists. Usually on weekends, holidays or Tet, this is a crowded place for tourists. If you choose to go during the peak season, you need to accept the crowding and increased fees for some services.

Expenses to visit Can Gio

Transport: 200,000 VND including petrol, fares...

Food and drinks: 500,000 VND depending on dietary needs

Hotel: 250,000 – 500,000 VND/person, depends on accommodation 

Entertainment: 300,000 – 500,000 VND/person, including entrance fees, services at the destination...

Shopping: 200,000 - 500,000 VND/person

Other services such as parking fee...: 20.000 VND/person

TOTAL: 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 VND/person

Some notes when traveling to Can Gio

- To get the freshest seafood, you should choose it yourself and bargain with the seller.

- To ensure safety when driving back from Can Gio, you should return before 5 pm because many roads do not have street lights. It is best to depart from Can Gio around 4 pm.

- If you travel to Can Gio by motorbike, save the phone number of a tire repairman in advance to be ready to handle problems on the road.

Above are the experiences to travel to Can Gio that we want to share with you. Hopefully the above information will help you have the most interesting and complete trip in Can Gio. Wish you a wonderful trip!

Source: https://saigontraveltour.com/sai-gon-travel-blog/useful-information-about-visiting-can-gio-saigon/

Experience journey on Chay River from Trung Do to Coc Ly

Traveling on Chay River from Trung Do village - where there is a national cultural and historical relic - Tien Cave, Bao Nhai commune to Coc Ly Hydroelectric Lake, Bac Ha district used to be an activity that attracted a lot of tourists. Private Sapa tours

Since the Bac Ha hydropower plant filled the water, the Chay River dried up, making it difficult to travel by boat, and there were no more visitors, and this river tourism route almost stopped. But now, it is attracting and welcoming many visitors again when the Bao Nhai 1 hydropower plant filled the dam.

Chay River in Bac Ha District (Lao Cai province) stretches and winds along the winding terrain of the mountain ranges. On both sides of the river, there are vertical cliffs, while other parts are wide open with far-reaching views. Tourists can start their cruise on Chay River from Bao Nhai Commune up to Coc Ly Commune or vice versa.

Since Bao Nhai 1 hydropower plant has stored water, boating on the Chay River is no longer difficult. Especially in the summer, on weekends, when the weather is hot and humid, many tourists from the lowlands or Lao Cai City come to the countryside or highlands with beautiful and peaceful landscapes and rivers, streams, where there are cool waterfalls or peaceful blue hydropower lakes, becoming attractive "hot escapes" for local people and tourists.

That is why the Chay River boat trip from Trung Do village to Hang Tien, Bao Nhai commune to Coc Ly hydroelectric lake, Bac Ha district has revived and in the early summer of 2023, the experience of cruising on the Chay River on the poetic white plateau of Bac Ha has been chosen by many people.

After many years of having to stop working or operate at a low level, now there are many tourists, some households in Bao Nhai commune who used to work as boat drivers, budget motels and some homestays are happy and excited. Mr. Ha Quang Chanh, Tay ethnic, Trung Do village, Bao Nhai commune said that his family has lived in Trung Do village for generations, attached to the river and rice farming.

Previously, the village invested in developing community tourism, creating jobs for homestays and boatmen who transported us tourists. Then the dam was built to make Coc Ly hydroelectric lake, losing water and flow, no one came anymore, we lost our jobs, only knowing how to farm. Now, the Bao Nhai hydroelectric dam has been built, the flow is stable, the scenery of Hang Tien and Trung Do village on the Chay river is beautiful, many visitors have come, the people are very happy because they can return to their jobs.

Currently, in Bao Nhai and Coc Ly communes, there are 20 boats operating to pick up and drop off tourists, each boat can accommodate up to 10 passengers. All boats are equipped with life jackets. Tourists will experience sitting on a boat to enjoy the river about 3km, the travel time is about 30 minutes. The price of each boat is 500,000 VND (including round trip). After the experience of watching the river on the boat, tourists can bathe in the cool water; prepare their own lunch with snacks right on the riverbank.

A homestay owner in Trung Do village, Bao Nhai commune said that before the dam was built, the beautiful mountain scenery, the gentle river flow, the Trung Do - Hang Tien Bao Nhai tour and upstream to Coc Ly to go to the market attracted many visitors. Then, the dam was built to make Coc Ly hydropower plant for many years, causing this tour to disappear. People working in homestays and river transport services lost their jobs, some went to Bac Ha to do tourism, others stayed in their hometowns to farm, life was difficult. Now that Bao Nhai 1 hydropower plant has dammed water, this tour is operating again and we have jobs and income again. Hopefully there will be more visitors and the homestay will try to ensure good service for visitors.

With beautiful poetic scenery, clear and cool water of Chay River, the experience of cruising on Chay River is becoming an attractive destination for locals and tourists. To protect the tourism environment, tourism workers also recommend that locals and tourists when visiting and experiencing need to be aware of maintaining public hygiene, not throwing waste into the river; always wear a life jacket when the boat is moving to prevent drowning.

Currently at Bac Ha Hydropower Plant, the water rises to form a large lake, boats can travel easily, attracting more and more tourists, especially on Tuesdays and weekends where people visit Coc Ly market. Therefore, Bao Nhai Commune has a plan to restore this tourist route.

To restore this once famous tourist route, Bao Nhai commune also has a policy and plan to establish a new boat dock starting at Trung Do village, organize a number of local traditional festivals associated with Trung Do temple, combined with the landscape and national cultural identity to create highlights to attract tourists such as: the army celebration ceremony in July every year, the festival "Going to the fields" at the beginning of the first month of the year, the boat racing festival... This will be an opportunity for Bao Nhai to exploit its inherent potential strengths to develop the economy, when the tourist route on Chay River is restored.

Source: https://privatesapatours.com/news/conquering-chay-river-from-trung-do-to-coc-ly-market.php

Vietnam train travel - a journey connecting heritage regions

With over 100 years of history, Vietnam Railways has accompanied many ups and downs of Vietnam history. Entering a new stage of development, the mission of the railway industry is now not only a means of transportation, but also brings special experiences, helping visitors explore the natural beauty, culture and history of each land, becoming a journey to discover the beauty of the country's heritage. tailor-made Vietnam tours

Coming to Da Lat city, a place that tourists cannot miss in their journey to explore this land is Da Lat station - the starting point of the Da Lat - Trai Mat railway line with a length of 6.7km, the remaining part of the 84km Thap Cham - Da Lat line, connecting Ninh Thuan province with Lam Dong, put into operation in 1932, built by the French.

This is the only unique cog railway in Vietnam and one of the two most beautiful cog railways in the world (along with the Swiss railway).

With a train journey of about 1 hour (30 minutes on the way there and 30 minutes on the way back), the train speed is slow, during the day, visitors can comfortably relax and admire the poetic beauty of Da Lat, and at night, the beauty of the city of flowers is really magical and different.

The main building of Da Lat station is built with three stylized pyramidal roofs symbolizing the three peaks of Langbiang mountain, the middle peak has a large clock, the building was recognized as a special national monument by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2001.

Mr. Dang Hieu Dan, who has many years of experience in teaching in the railway field, said: "Along with Da Lat station with its mountain-shaped architecture and the communal house roof of the Central Highlands people, Thap Tram - Da Lat railway has a sawtooth-shaped track to be able to cross the mountain ranges. This project has a unique design similar to the railway line in Switzerland crossing the Alps."

Different from the bustling and crowded Da Lat, when coming to Trai Mat, visitors can feel the gentle, peaceful atmosphere with pine hills rustling in the wind, the poetic scenery captivates people.

Before boarding the train, visitors can freely visit and check-in at Da Lat station - a unique ancient architectural work inspired by the legendary Langbiang mountain and the traditional Central Highlands communal house roof or check-in at ancient train cars in Indochina style.

On "Da Lat Night Journey", in addition to enjoying music, visitors can also enjoy a dinner party upon request.

A tourist from Ho Chi Minh City said: "The experience of the Da Lat - Trai Mat tourist train reminded me of a historical period. Listening to songs praising the poetic land of peach blossoms and enjoying unique cuisine gave me an interesting feeling."

Another tourist from Can Tho, said: "Da Lat Station is more than beautiful. I hope that services like this will continue to be experienced by many tourists to feel the beauty of the country."

Da Lat night journey is a tourism product that the railway industry has put into operation to continue to bring passengers new experiences, feel the beauty of Da Lat at night, contribute to diversifying services and developing local tourism.

Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province said: "Da Lat Station is associated with a historical story, the train station system of Da Lat City is currently an attractive destination for domestic and foreign tourists. Therefore, this is the lever and premise contributing to the economic development of the city, in line with the policy of the Provincial Party Committee and the City Party Committee in developing high-quality tourism".

Train connecting central heritage

If "Da Lat Night Journey" allows visitors to visit Da Lat city by the only unique cog railway in Vietnam, the tourist train connecting Hue - Da Nang named "Connecting Central Heritage" helps visitors have more interesting experiences on the journey to visit and experience heritage destinations and tourist attractions in the central region.

The train "Connecting Central Heritage" was put into operation on March 26, 2024, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the liberation of Thua Thien Hue. This is a transport business product combined with the exploitation of tourism, history and culture services.

With a travel time of about 3 hours, the train will take visitors through Hai Van Pass - known as "The most majestic pass in Vietnam" to Da Nang - a city with many beautiful beaches.

Train number HD1 consists of 10 carriages, including 2 community carriages serving Hue cuisine and Hue folk songs. The two carriages are decorated by Vietnam Railways in the traditional style of ancient royal courts.

The train is equipped with soft, air-conditioned seats, placed next to the windows for visitors to enjoy the scenery along the railway line considered the most beautiful in Vietnam, connecting Hue - Da Nang.

On this train, Hue singing artists will perform Nam Binh, Phu Luc, Co Ban… to serve tourists. Next to this carriage is the culinary carriage, with a series of Hue cakes and fruits such as: Banh It, Cha Lua, Nem Hue… along with drinks for tourists to freely choose on this heritage journey.

Source: https://tailormadevietnamholidays.com/travel_news/vietnam-railways-opens-unique-tourism-products.htm

Attending cherry blossom festival in Halong

On March 22, the Cherry Blossom Festival was held in Ky Thuong Commune, Halong City (Quang Ninh Province). This is the first festival organized by the Halong City People's Committee, aiming to contribute to maintaining and promoting the nation's fine traditional cultural values, creating unique products to promote, promote and attract tourists to Halong City in general and Ky Thuong Commune in particular. Halong cruise tours

The festival will take place over 2 days, including outstanding activities such as: Planting cherry blossom trees; visiting cherry blossom displays and exhibitions, booths displaying and selling OCOP products and some booths displaying and selling products of typical households and businesses in the city; cultural and sports exchange activities taking place during the festival; experiencing Kimono costumes (Japan) and costumes of ethnic groups in Halong city; bamboo dancing exchange; crossbow shooting, stick pushing, stilt walking performance, and traditional costume embroidery.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chairman of the People's Committee of Ky Thuong Commune, Halong City said: "The festival is organized to concretize the project of Halong - the city of flowers and festivals. To develop tourism in Ky Thuong Commune associated with exploiting the cherry blossom landscape, the People's Committee of Halong City has approved 2 detailed plans with a total expected area of  planting landscape forests and cherry blossom trees of about 30.8 hectares (at Dong Cut Hamlet Tourism Service Area, Khe Tre Village about 8.86 hectares and Khe Tre Hamlet Tourism Service Area, Khe Tre Village about 22 hectares). The future orientation is to create a flower forest in Ky Thuong Commune, aiming to exploit this area to become a large landscape park typical of the area associated with experiential activities, such as: sightseeing, adventure sports activities, camping activities, festivals, conferences, film studios, and nature museums.

Ky Thuong cherry blossom area is a new and promising eco-tourism project in Halong, accompanied by leading Japanese companies specializing in cherry blossom planting. About 100 cherry blossom trees have been planted and are growing well.

By organizing the cherry blossom festival, Halong city hopes that Ky Thuong will become an attractive destination, attracting tourists, enriching resources and unique tourism products; contributing to introducing to tourists from all over the world, besides Halong Bay - a heritage and natural wonder of the world, the city is also very attractive because of the pristine and majestic beauty of the mountainous area in the North of the city. Through the festival, it contributes to bringing the image and culture of the Dao ethnic group to many tourists, bringing the beauty of Japan to the majority of people in Halong city. At the same time, it strengthens the great solidarity of ethnic groups, creates a joyful and exciting atmosphere, enriching the spiritual life of the people.

Ky Thuong is located in the highest area of the highland communes of Halong city, with a population of nearly 900 people, of which over 98% are Dzao people. In addition to its biodiversity value, Ky Thuong commune is also considered a locality with natural tourism resources, with many high mountain ranges, many systems of rivers, lakes, streams, and vertical waterfalls, interspersed with vast green forests, creating a natural landscape of "beautiful mountains and rivers", with a cool climate all year round.

Source: https://halong-tour.com/travelnews/cherry-blossom-festival-in-halong-city.php