Footprint Vietnam Tour

Hanoi Street food explained: Bun Dau - Noodles and Tofu

2012-01-31T19:30:00.000-08:00

A fresh option for lunch or dinner is Bun Dau. Literally translated to mean ‘noodles and tofu’, this favourite Vietnamese street food option is truly worth trying!

Bun Dau can be easily found on the streets of Hanoi. To find it look for people huddled around big round colourful serving trays with plates of write noodles (bun), fried tofu (day phu), fried fish cakes (ca ?), spring rolls (nem), and a pile of lettuces and fresh herbs.

To eat it, take a choice of dips - either a traditional shrimp dip (mam tom) or sweetened fish sauce (nuoc mam) - and dip your noodles, tofu, fish cakes, and spring rolls into it. In between bites take bites of the different lettuces and fresh herbs creating new flavours and refreshing the palate.

Cost of bun dau can range from 25,000 VND per person up to 70,000 VND depending on how famous the vendor has become in the area.

A secreted spot in the Old Quarter to check out while on your Vietnam tour is on a side street, just off of Hang Da, exactly opposite of Hang Da Galleria, about 50m down. The women and her husband who run the little street spot are only there for lunch. Best to get there early, before the noon lunch rush or you’ll be waiting a while!

Source: Ocvit_Footprint Vietnam Travel

Vietnam tops list of world's most attractive tourist destinations

2012-01-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

Vietnam is now at the top of the list of the world's emerging tourist attractions, as selected by international visitors in 2012, according to a recent report by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA).

The Southeast Asian country was closely followed by India, Ecuador and China on the list of destinations that USTOA members consider increasingly popular in the year.

The Association announced the list at an annual conference held recently on Marco Island, Florida. It is an occupational association, through which travel agents organize tours and provide tourism services in countries around the world.

Recently, Smart Travel Asia, a prestigious online travel magazine, also highlighted Vietnamese tourism by listing Hanoi and Hoi An among the top ten most attractive tourist destinations in Asia in 2011.

Smart Travel Asia's list was based on votes cast online by more than one million readers worldwide from May to July 2011.

(Source: VOV)

Vietnam travel resolutions for 2012

2012-01-02T20:44:00.000-08:00

As you begin to stake claim to your resolutions for 2012, here are some added inspirations for those planning to travel to Vietnam (or elsewhere) in 2012.

To start off, learning Vietnamese has been too often touted as too difficult to learn. This year, challenge yourself to learn at least 5 new Vietnamese phrases before boarding your flight. Hello (Xin chao), Thank you (Cam on), and How are you (Co khoe khong? Answer: Rat khoe, cam on.) are three to get you started.

Take a Vietnamese cooking lesson! There are all kinds of great Vietnamese dishes that you can take home with you (and, they don’t take up any room in your luggage!). Try and learn at least the recipe for nuoc mam, or Vietnamese spring rolls, or perhaps banana flower salad!

Pack smart and pack lightly. If you plan on bringing gifts for your Vietnamese travel, think about first whether you could buy them here. And if you do bring gifts make sure they are light. Also, when you pack think about how you decrease what you are going to bring. Can you use your running shoes for everyday use as well as trekking and cycling. Maybe you can buy a book when you get to Vietnam, and pass it on to someone after your trip.

Cycle and trek! Take you travels closer to the people, landscapes and culture by cycling and trekking. Footprint already offers a number of great options that suite any level from super easy to adventurous-hard. Plans are in the works to give you even more by early 2012, so go ahead and add one to your trip! You will not be disappointed!

Home-stay! As you begin to book your trip and accommodations in Vietnam, think about staying in a home stay. Staying in a home stay is a great way to gain a deep cultural understanding about the country you are travelling in, and it ensures that the benefits of tourism remain local - not only in the Vietnam, but in the local community!

And finally, volunteer! Volunteering or doing something that ‘gives back’ is not as hard as you may think. Take a few hours out of your day while trekking in Sapa and go and do a little work in the rice paddies. For something that might take a little organizing - painting a school, repairing a playground, teaching anything (English, dental hygiene, first aid), or building something (toilets, safe walkways) - be sure to tell your Footprint travel consultant your idea, and we will help you tailor make your volunteer experience!

We understand that many of these Vietnamese travel resolutions can be integrated into any travel any where, and hopefully, where ever you go, you will take these ideas with you!

Source: Chris_Footprint Vietnam Travel

Hanoi to let off fireworks at Lunar New Year’s Eve

2011-12-15T19:50:00.000-08:00

The Hanoi People’s Committee has plans to let off fireworks during the Lunar New Year’s Eve 2012 at 29 places, including four high-range displays and 25 low-range displays.

The high-range displays will take place at Hoan Kiem Lake, Thong Nhat Park, Nguyen Hoang Ton Flower Garden and Van Quan Lake.

The low-range fireworks will be held at six districts of Ba Dinh, Hoang Mai, Long Bien, Dong Da, Thanh Xuan and Cau Giay and 19 suburbs of Gia Lam, Me Linh, Ba Vi, Dan Phuong, Thach That, Chuong My, Thuong Tin, Quoc Oai, Phu Xuyen, My Duc, Ung Hoa, Tu Liem, Dong Anh, Soc Son, Phuc THo, Thanh Oai, Hoai Duc, Thanh Tri and Son Tay.

The municipal people’s committee asked the Hanoi High Command to coordinate with the police, the district’s people’s committees, and relevant agencies to execute the plans successfully.

Source: VOV

Hanoi to pilot walking streets from early 2012

2011-12-01T20:34:00.001-08:00

The Hanoi Department of Transport has submitted a pilot plan of organising some walking streets around Hoan Kiem District to the city People’s Committee for approval.

The pilot plan aims to preserve tangible and intangible culture, in association with developing tourism and trade in the Hoan Kiem District. The department also hopes to sustain the specific cultural beauty and cityscape of the capital city.

Streets chosen to begin this experiment are Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Hang Duong, Dong Xuan, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake, Le Lai, Le Thach, Trang Tien (from Hang Khay to Ngo Quyen).

According to the plan, the walking streets are expected to open for walkers from 6 am on Saturday to 10 pm on Sunday.

If the pilot plan is approved by the city People’s Committee, the Hanoi Department of Transport will organise the walking streets from January 1st, 2012.

(Source: CPV)

Vietnam tourism targets 7.5 million tourists in 2015

2011-11-15T20:58:00.000-08:00

The Vietnam tourism sector targets 7.5 million foreign tourist arrivals and 35 million domestic arrivals in 2015. This information was given by Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism, Hoang Tuan Anh, in a seminar on developing tourism in the central coastal provinces on November 14, in Hanoi.

Speaking at the seminar, Minister Hoang Tuan Anh said that the central coastal region plays the key role in realising the target of attracting foreign and domestic tourist arrivals in 2015. This is expected to bring a tourism income of USD 8-9 billion, accounting for 5.5 percent of national GDP.

Until 2020, the local tourism sector strives to greet 10-15 million foreign tourists and 40-45 million domestic arrivals, with a tourism turnover of USD 17-18 billion, making up 6-6.5 percent of national GDP, added the minister.

The minister also affirmed travel businesses in the central coastal region should attach importance in developing tourist products specific to each locality. Moreover, localities should coordinate together for mutual development and avoid unhealthy competition among localities and businesses in attracting tourists.

Source: BNA

Halong Bay in early list of top 10 wonders

2011-11-07T19:58:00.001-08:00

Vietnam’s Halong Bay has been named in a temporary list of the world’s 10 new wonders of nature by the New Open World Corporation, an associate of the non-profit New 7 Wonders Foundation.

The others in the list are the Dead Sea in Israel, Palestine, and Jordan; the Grand Canyon in the US; the Great Barrier Reef off Australia and Papua New Guinea); Jeita Grotto cave in Lebanon; Jeju Island in South Korea; Komodo Island in Indonesia; Puerto Princesa Underground River in the Philippines; the Sunderbans in Bangladesh and India; and Vesuvius Mountain in Italy.

They have received the most votes so far, according to the New7Wonders, whose president, Bernard Weber, said the list could change in the remaining days of the campaign before the final list was released November 11.

Earlier on September 27 New7Wonders Foundation chairman Bernard Weber announced that Ha Long was among the 28 finalist candidates for the new seven wonders of nature.

To vote for Halong Bay, one has to go to the website http://www.new7wonders.com, dial + 1.869 760.5990 and press 7712, or send a text message (“Halong”) to 147.

Source: dtinews

Expects over 5 million travelers to Vietnam tour in 2011

2011-11-01T21:19:00.000-07:00

A total of 4.8 million foreign travelers to Vietnam tour during the first ten months of the year, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

Although the number of foreign visitors declined by 25 percent in September compared to the same period last year, Vietnam is optimistic of welcoming 5.3-5.5 million foreign visitors in 2011.

This year, the country hosted many political and cultural events such as ‘ASEAN’, ‘1,000th anniversary of Thanh Long’ in Hanoi, which made it interesting for foreign visitors to visit the country.

The number of foreign tourists to Ho Chi Minh City is estimated to reach 2.9 million this year, an increase of 10 percent compared to the same period last year.

Source: Dtinews

Hoi An welcomes over 1.2 million visitors

2011-10-31T22:13:00.000-07:00

The tourist City of Hoi An has received 1,234,000 visitors since the beginning of the year, up by 17.2 per cent against the same time last year, according to the local statistic office.
Officials said that the rise in numbers of tourists, including international ones to the City during the economic downturn here and around the world was impressive. Especially, the massive earthquakes and tsunami in Japan had remarkably reduced the number of tourists from the market.

According to assessments, the City and local travel agents have been trying to maintain the quality of tourist products and services and to create some more attractive tourist products.

Local authorities also paid much attention to the City’s environment and culture by educating local people to cultural norms and conducts and calling on people to give up smoking in the tourist City.

Source: TBKT

Bicycle tours ideal for exploring suburbs

2011-10-31T22:11:00.001-07:00

An off-road cycling trip through the capital’s towns and villages follows dirt paths, crosses ricefields and passes historic sites. Jens Pickhan, a German businessman, had time to explore the Old Quarter and suburban areas of Hanoi after participating in a marketing survey for a travel agency.

On a hot summer day, Pickhan and his group of 10 friends decided to explore some of Hanoi’s most visited sites, including Son Tay citadel, the historic villages of Duong Lam and Tay Phuong Pagoda.

Pickhan was invited to join an off-road bike trip through the capital’s surrounding towns and villages.

At the suggestion of a local guide, the group took an off-road route, crossing rice fields and riding along dirt paths in the countryside.

Chung, a former tourist guide and biking instructor in Hanoi, accompanied the group on their half-day trip.

Chung chose a difficult route for the first-time riders.

The group left Hanoi in a van, while another van carried their bikes and luggage.

After a 30-minute drive, they reached their departure point in Xuan Phuong Village, 30km west of downtown Hanoi.

There, the guide explained how to avoid problems with muddy and uneven terrain.

At about 8.30am, group leader Pham Ha urged the team to begin riding in order to make a lot of progress before the sun reached its peak.

“I’ve experienced summer weather, so I know to hurry in the morning and reserve energy for hotter afternoon travelling,” Ha explained.

They arrived at Thay Pagoda after an hour and a half. The 20-km route from Xuan Phuong Village to the Thay Pagoda proved challenging for the group; they had to carry their bikes crossing trenches and several riders got flat tires.

But the group agreed that terrain bikes were the best vehicles for their journey across fields of maize and harvested rice.

“It’s amazing. We tackled slippery roads and immediately tested the skills we learned from our guides,” said Pham Thi Hien, a member of the group.

“We also had the chance to talk with local people, who offered us tea and fruit when we took a short break near their gardens.”

The monumental Thay Pagoda, which was built in the 11th century during the Ly dynasty, has statues for the worship of the Zen Buddha and his incarnation as King Ly Nhan Tong.

The upper pagoda’s main gate features two four-metre statues made of a mixture of clay, honey, egg white and chopped paper; they were lacquered more than 500 years ago and remain the largest clay statues in Vietnam.

“I was fascinated by the statues. They reminded me of little clay toys that I used to make when I was a kid, but this was the first time I’ve seen a giant statue made from clay,” Hien added.

“We climbed up to the top of Sai Son Mountain to look down on the pagoda. A pavilion in the middle of the lake, which was set in front of the main building of the pagoda, looks like a match box from a bird’s-eye-view angle on top of the mountain.”

Having lingered at the pagoda for two hours, the group headed on to Tay Phuong Pagoda, where a unique collection of Buddhist statues has been housed since the 17th century.

The pagoda was built on the top of a mountain and visitors must still climb up 239 steps to reach it.

“It’s quite high and we were exhausted by the uphill path to the pagoda after our long ride. But it felt so good to get to the top. It was as if the fatigue disappeared,” Ha recalled.

A lunch at a local restaurant revitalised the group, before they continued another 8km to Tay Phuong Pagoda.

The pagoda is renowned for its lacquered wood arhats, considered to be among Southeast Asia’s most beautiful statues.

It was built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries during the post-Le dynasty era on Tay Phuong Mountain in Thach Xa Village.

The pagoda has 62 jackfruit wood statues from the 18th century, each featuring a different aspect of the Buddha.

The group then went on to visit Son Tay Citadel and ancient village of Duong Lam by van.

“We made sure to select a favourable route that would take only one or two hours and would help visitors get a taste of rural life,” said Ha.

The centuries-old village includes Mia Pagoda and the tombs of Vietnam’s first two kings – Phung Hung (791-802) and Ngo Quyen (939-944) – who were famous for their struggle for Vietnamese independence.

The temple of Va, 5km from Duong Lam Village, was the last stop of the biking group, before they got in the van to drive back to Hanoi. By sunset at 6pm the group was tired, but pleased by their interesting trip through the countryside.

Source: VOV

Hanoi to open six streets for pedestrians

2011-10-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Six streets around Hanoi’s old quarter – Hang Buom, Hang Giay, Luong Ngoc Quyen, May May, Dao Duy Tu and Ta Hien – will become roads for pedestrians.

Hoan Kiem district authorities have submitted this project to Hanoi administration for approval. These streets are expected to open for pedestrians in late November or December, to connect with Hang Dao – Dong Xuan, which are already roads for walkers at weekend nights, to create a complete route for discovering Hanoi’s old quarters.

The roads for pedestrians will serve Hanoians and tourists three nights a week – Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 7pm in summer and 6pm in winter until 12pm.

Located in the first-class preservation zone of Hanoi’s old quarter, Hang Buom – Hang Giay – Luong Ngoc Quyen – Ma May – Dao Duy Tu – Ta Hien belong to Hang Buom and Hang Bac Wards, where host many architectural works of the 18th and 19th centuries and many cultural relics.

These streets are also the home for famous cuisines of Hanoi and Chinese Vietnamese. Therefore, many foreign tourists come here to enjoy food and learn about Hanoi’s old quarters.

Do Xuan Thuy, general director of Dong Xuan JS Company, who is in charge of the project, said that the area around Hanoi’s old quarter is appropriate to recover and develop Hanoi’s gastronomy because gastronomy is part of Hanoi’s culture.

According to a survey, of 159 shops on the six streets, 47 are restaurants. There are also 50 pavement shops on the evening. After walking and going shopping on Hang Dao-Dong Xuan roads, visitors can enjoy food at restaurants along the six streets.

Luong Ngoc Quyen and Ta Hien, where attract large numbers of foreign visitors, will have stalls that are similar as the “foreign market” in Quang An ward.

Source: vietnamnet

Friendly critters in Cuc Phuong National Park

2011-10-23T21:24:00.000-07:00

Beyond the endless trekking and enriching cultural experiences found in the Cuc Phuong National Park, the destination provides ample opportunity to come face to face with some interesting critters. Cuc Phuong is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Vietnam. The landscape is blanketed with dense vegetation and true Vietnamese jungle; the perfect home for a large variety of insects, animals, birds, and the Cuc Phuong Endangered Primate Rescue Centre.

“Dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, breeding, research and conservation of the endangered primates of Vietnam” (Source: http://www.primatecenter.org/), the Rescue Centre is home to over 140 primates from 15 species - some critically endangered. A visit to the centre is an interesting one. Lucky visitors are treated to monkey serenades.

Other chance encounters are with the abundance of insects. Creeping just beyond one’s usual perspective are crawlers of all sorts. As the sun dips beyond the mountains, and night falls, chances of seeing giant moths and huge buzzing beetles increase a thousand fold. Attracted to the light, insect-lovers will be astounded; the rest of us, will be running for cover.

Footprint Vietnam Travel runs a variety of options to trek and home stay within the Cuc Phuong National Park, as well as within the area. Check out their website for more information.

Source: Ocvit-Footprint Travel

Halong Bay’s World Wonder bid receives a boost

2011-10-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

Vietnamese people will have the chance to vote for Halong Bay as a new World Wonder through a TV programme to be broadcast live on October 29.

The live programme will be concurrently aired on Vietnam Television’s Channel 1 (VTV1) linking four places: Halong Bay in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh, the capital city of Hanoi, the former imperial city of Hue in the central region and Ho Chi Minh City.

Famous figures, including pop stars, will vote for the bay and deliver messages calling on audiences to take part in the vote.

Halong Bay has been twice recognised as a World Natural Heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The programme will help promote the image of the World Heritage site of Halong Bay and Vietnam as well, said Nguyen Van Tinh, head of the International Cooperation Department under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) at a press briefing in Hanoi on October 19.

According to MoCST Minister Hoang Tuan Anh, the voting campaign is entering the final stage. New7Wonders will announce the final results of voting around the world on November 11, 2011.

He quoted New7Wonders as saying Halong Bay has received a relatively high number of votes compared to other nominees.

Vietnamese people can vote for Halong Bay by logging on www.new7wonders.com and Facebook and using the SMS service.

The voting will be closed at 11.11am (GMT) on November 11, 2011.

Source: VOV

Vietnam Tourism activities in the first nine months of 2011

2011-10-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

On October 7, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism held a press conference on culture, sports and Vietnam tourism activities in the first nine months of 2011, and focus tasks in the last three months of 2011.

Regarding tourism, in the first nine months of 2011, the number of international arrivals from most of markets increased over the same period of 2010 (Cambodia up by 59.2%, China: 44.9%, and Malaysia: 12.2%). As estimated, total international arrivals in 9 months reached 4.3 million representing a 15.5% growth over the same period of 2010. In 2011, the VNAT set a target to welcome from 5.3 to 5.5 million of international tourists and more than 30 million of domestic ones.

In the last three months, the VNAT will focus on steering the organization of the remaining activities in Phu Yen National Tourism Year 2011, preparation of Hue National Tourism Year 2012, and actively participate in the voting campaign for Halong Bay to be one of new seven wonders of the world.

Source: TITC

Red River listed in the top 18 landscapes

2011-10-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

Russia’s International News Agency, RIA Novosti, has named the Red River of Vietnam among the top 18 natural beauties of the world.

The Red River is 1,149 km long in total, originating from China, flowing across Vietnam to the East Sea.

It has various names, such as Hong Ha or Cai River. The Red River enters Vietnam in A Mu Sung Commune, Bat Xat District, and flows through the east of Hanoi.

A large amount of alluvial soil, an average of around 100 million tonnes per year, flows in the Red River.

Seen as a red martial Dragon, the Red River plays a vital role in daily life and production of local people.

Source: DV

“Passion Indochine” to open in Paris

2011-09-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

A Vietnam-Laos-Cambodia cultural and tourism festival entitled “Passion Indochine” will be held in Paris, France, on September 30-October 1.

The festival will be organized by Vietnam Airlines under the sponsorship of the Vietnamese, Lao and Cambodian embassies.

Le Dung, director of the Vietnam Airlines representative office in Europe, said the event aims to promote culture and tourism in the three countries in the Vietnam Airlines flight network, especially since it plans to open a direct route to London.

Dung said that potential of Vietnam tour will diversified if it can work together with Laos and Cambodia to tap the tourism potential of all the countries.

The festival will be divided into three sections: one to introduce the World Heritage sites in the three countries, another presenting their special cuisines, and one for cultural performances to attract more French and European visitors to the region.

Source: VOV

Quang Ninh accelerates votes for Halong Bay

2011-09-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

Quang Ninh Province’s Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union launched a new campaign “50 days to gather votes for Halong Bay as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World” in Halong City on September 20th.

Accordingly, the campaign will last until November 10th, 2011 with the motto “Each Provincial Union member and teenager, one vote for Halong Bay”.

The program’s launching ceremonies were held at the same time in all localities of the Province, to train and guide local people on how to vote, asking them to vote directly for the Bay, disseminating the campaign on mass media, setting up the youth-managed polling stations at communes cultural houses, schools, factories, bus stops and tourist areas to create more convenient conditions for local residents and domestic and foreign visitors to vote.

The “50 days to vote for Halong Bay” campaign plays an important role in the final critical period, showing the responsibility of Quang Ninh’s people in making contributions to the campaign to decide on Halong Bay as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Source: QDND

The best pho in Hanoi

2011-09-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

I can say for sure that its definitely my favorite place to go for Pho in Hanoi. And, I would be happy to argue that it is probably the best in Hanoi!

Every night at the Western end of Hang Ma in the midst of paper street, starting at about 4:30pm, sitting on the corner is a middle aged women working her noodles, her pots, and her knife. You can almost picture her as a drummer with her two big base drums for stock, her two smaller toms for re-heating the pho, and as her snare, her worn cutting board for slicing the beef. She is fiery and fierce to her workers, kind and generous to her patrons.

The small street-side restaurant is run with her brother. An older man with a strong smile and a weakening voice. He acts as the maitre d’, busboy, and manger. The two of them are often in a heated ‘discussion’. Not knowing enough Vietnamese to understand, I imagine that it is about the rising price of quality beef, but I know that it is an argument and verbal-beating in response to something the older fellow forgot to tell the staff.

It is a joy to sit and watch the pair at work and the satisfied customers slurping away. It is obvious the sister-brother team have a well-developed customer base. Returning clientele show up every night picking up to-go orders of Pho Tai Chin (Pho with rare beef and braised brisket) or Sot Vang (Southern style beef stew) almost bowing in thanks as they see it slopped into their stainless steel carriers.

And what about the Pho? Well, its delicious of course! Fresh ingredients. Great ratio of meat to noodles to garnish. Seasoned to perfection. The stock is clear and flavorful. There is a great selection of condiments for personalization. It’s a delight that I frequently treat myself to (at least once a week). And, every once in a while I am enticed to have a second bowl, half-filled with Sot Vang. Surely, a coveted family recipe.

For those who have pho-ed their way through Vietnam, or have staked claim as Hanoi’s street-food gurus, or for those who just don’t believe that the best Pho in Hanoi is on Hang Ma, then I suggest you go, try, and prove me wrong.

Oh, and I forgot to mention, they have tall chairs and regular sized tables!

Source: Ocvit-Footprint Travel

Tourism’s potentials still untapped

2011-09-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

Experts say Vietnam needs to do more to attract more foreign cruiser travelers to Vietnam tour, the country with 3200 kilometres of coastline, and wonderful bays and beaches.
For the last many years, Vietnam always appears as one of the destination points in the itineraries of cruise trips that tour the Asia Pacific region. However, the number of foreign cruiser travelers to Vietnam tour remains modest, just accounting for one percent of the total foreign tourists to Vietnam.

Tin tuc has cited its sources as saying that since the beginning of the year, Vietnam has received only 25,000 foreign cruise travelers, which represents the 20 percent decrease in comparison with the same period of the last year.

Cruises only make few-day stays in Vietnam

Explaining the decreases in the number of cruise tourists to Vietnam, Vu Duy Vu, Deputy Director of Saigontourist, said that recently, the cruises to Vietnam not only stay at one port, but at two or three ports, and they tend to dock at many ports in Vietnam. A lot of cruises stay in Vietnam overnight, but most of the cruises do not: they come in the morning and leave in the afternoon.

Vietnam is really a good destination for tourists with its beautiful landscapes and wonderful beaches. However, the poor tourism services explain why Vietnam still cannot attract cruise tourists.

At present, only 10 Vietnamese travel firms receive cruise tourists. In 1990s, ship routing (periodic cruise trips) was once planned in Vietnam which then lasts several years. At that time, the number of cruise tourists to Vietnam once accounted for up to 10 percent of the total travelers to Vietnam.

However, due to many reasons, including the difficulties faced by the partners, the activities of receiving periodic cruises have halted. However, Saigontourist said it is planning to resume the plan.

Nguyen Thanh Binh, representative from Tan Hong Travel Firm, said that as for foreign cruise tourists, Vietnam remains an unfamiliar destination; therefore, they want to go to Vietnam to discover the interesting things in the country. However, the problem is that Vietnam, though having attractive destinations, still cannot offer good services due to the poor infrastructure conditions.

For example, foreign cruse tourists dock the Halong Bay and then leave for Hanoi during the same days. It takes them four hours to go to Hanoi and four other hours to return to Halong. This means that they only have two or three hours to visit Hanoi. Since tourists do not have many choices for means of transport, they still have to travel by land, and have no other alternatives in case troubles occur with the road traffic.

Vietnam’s services unprofessional

The first thing that cruise tourists can easily realise when they arrive in Vietnam is that the ports are all cargo ports, not tourism ports. This means that tourists may feel inconvenient when docking cargo ports, including the poor environment conditions. Especially, many tourists have expressed their dissatisfaction when they have to receive a lot of vendors who try to persuade them to buy souvenirs.

Barbara Parson, a Canadian tourism said that when his cruise docked at the Halong Bay and the tourists were planning to leave for smaller boats, they could see the small boats of local residents, who came to ask the tourists to buy souvenirs. If tourists refused to purchase the products, the local residents then asked for money.

Meanwhile, the foreign tourists really did not want to buy the products sold by the people, because they were advised not to buy the products due to the low quality.

Binh from Tan Hong travel firm said that Vietnam does not have many products to sell to tourists. Foreigners like fine art hand-made products in Vietnam, but they do not know where to find high quality products. In general, vendors only sell low quality products. Meanwhile, tourists cannot find vendors to pay back the products they purchase.

After every trip, cruises always ask tourists to give comments about the destinations. And Vietnam has been marked as the new destination which deserves “dropping in”.

Source: Dtinews

Unique colour in Hanoi’s pavements

2011-09-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

Travel to Hanoi, foreign visitor are impressed by the capital’s pavements where they can chat, drink tea or coffee, and even have something to eat.

Mayu Takeda, a Vietnamese Japanese student, says she loves Hanoi’s pavements, through which she can learn more about the city’s in-depth stories.

Mayu often goes around the old quarter of Hanoi to get to know about people’s lives and daily activities. “Sitting on the pavement, looking around and listening to different voices, you will know what is happening in Hanoi,” she says.

Traveling to Vietnam to visit relatives and friends, the 21-year student takes every opportunity to enjoy life here in Hanoi. She left the country when she was just four years old, but the country is always in her heart.

Michael, a tourist from the US, first visited Vietnam five years ago. This time he has brought his friends, who are very eager to explore Hanoi. “You can get everything you need on the pavements,” Michel says, adding that the prices are much cheaper than in the shops.“There is no place like Hanoi, where you can see, either poor or rich people, interacting with each other. And, it’s undeniable that the ‘motorbike civilization’ has contributed to the ‘pavement economy’ which helps thousands of people earn their living,” he says.

Strolling around Hoan Kiem (Returned Sword) Lake, Andreas, a journalist from Germany, feels very excited to see people on the move.

Andreas says he likes sitting on the pavement, listening to the mixed sounds, drinking tea or coffee and seeing what’s happening around him. “In the evening, the streets are less busy but more quiet. It’s time for me to go out and enjoy the atmosphere of open air-living. Life on the streets is something new and special, like a piece of documentary film about Hanoi and Hanoians.”

With the last rays of the sun disappearing and less noise echoing from transport vehicles, Hanoi is closing its day to enter a paradise filled with joy and excitement.

Soaking up the life of the streets which look both old and new, traditional and modern, you will see that nothing is more refreshing to enjoy after long working hours than a cup of coffee near Hoan Kiem Lake.

There are many famous coffee shops in the city, from Nang Cafe (6 Hang Bac), Nhan Cafe (39D1 Hang Hanh), and Cafe Mai (Nguyen Du) to Cafe Giang (Hang Gai), and Cafe Lam (60, 91 Nguyen Huu Huan), which are ideal for old friends to meet and chat in the romantic atmosphere of the city.

Source: Dtinews

Vietnam’s Mid-Autumn Festival

2011-09-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

The Mid-Autumn Festival, one of the most traditional and popular family holidays in Vietnam, is enjoyed by people throughout the country, regardless of their background or economic status.

The festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, which falls in mid September in the Western calendar. It has evolved into an event with both cultural and commercial value.

The Mid-Autumn or ‘Trung Thu’ Festival is associated with the legend of Cuoi, a popular Vietnamese fairy tale that explains the origin of the festival.

According to the legend, a man named Cuoi was very famous because he owned a magic banyan tree that could cure any illness. Cuoi’s wife got angry because Cuoi seemed to love the tree more than her so one day when Cuoi was out treating a sick neighbour, she poured dirty water on the roots of the tree, which made it leave the ground. Cuoi suddenly returned at that very moment to see the tree fly up to the sky. He tried to grab it but failed to pin it down and was taken up to the moon, where he lives together with his tree to this day. That’s why every year children light lanterns and take part in processions on the day of the festival to show Cuoi the way back to Earth!

The Vietnamese version of the Mid-Autumn Festival is similar to the one in China, except for its legend, the food and some traditional activities. Both the Han and minority nationalities in China celebrate the mid-autumn festival, though there are some additional special customs in different parts of the country, such as burning incense, planting mid-autumn trees, and lighting lanterns on towers.

In Vietnam, there are many traditional activities for both adults and children during the festival including lion dances performed by both trained professional children’s groups and amateurs. Lion dance groups perform on the streets and go to houses asking for permission to perform for the people living there. If they are accepted by the hosts, the ‘lion’ will go in and start dancing to wish the household good luck and fortune. The Earth Lord, ‘Ong Dia’, dances around the dragon, urging it on. Ong Dia, who has a smiling moon-shaped face, represents the prosperity and wealth of the earth.

On the occasion of the festival, parents buy their children rattles, drums and star lanterns. Many children also take great interest in traditional paper toys, lion heads and masks of animals from old tales, as well as modern battery-run plastic ships or tanks with remote controls.

The tradition of the Mid-Autumn festival is reflected in the way the children play games. They carry beautifully ornate lanterns while singing and parading along the streets in a candlelight procession at dawn. The candles represent brightness and the procession symbolizes success in school. The lanterns come in different sizes and shapes such as fish and butterflies. There are also spinning lanterns in which candles can be inserted to represent the sun surrounded by the earth.

Mid-Autumn Festival parties in the evening are a good opportunity for children to enjoy the festive food and also learn things from their parents such as how to make the party attractive. The whole family will enjoy the feast in a cozy, sacred atmosphere.

Quite a few foreign visitors to Vietnam are also interested in the mid-autumn festival and some even bring mooncakes back to their home countries as special gifts for their friends.

“I find it quite interesting when I see people selling mooncakes everywhere. I hope to experience my first Mid-Autumn festival with some local families,” said Spiller, a 40-year-old English teacher from the UK.

Mooncakes are an indispensable delicacy for this festival. For generations, mooncakes have been made with sweet fillings of nuts, mashed red beans, lotus seed paste or sweet bean paste, depending on the region. Sometimes a cooked egg yolk can be found in the middle of the rich tasting dessert. People compare mooncakes to the plum pudding and fruit cakes served during the English Christmas holidays.

Vietnamese mooncakes are typically square rather than round, although round ones do exist. They are offered among friends or at family gatherings during this festival. The cakes are usually cut into small wedges and eaten accompanied by green tea because they are so sweet.

Cherry, a young Australian woman who is teaching English in Hanoi, told VOV that she has tried mooncakes several times and found them quite delicious but too sweet. ”I’m a little bit worried about my weight because I couldn’t resist the tempting taste,” she said smiling.

“We try to make mooncakes gifts that are special to Vietnam… Foreigners enjoy our cakes with the green tea filling very much,” said Pham Ly, a seller at a shop that specializes in the well-known Kinh Do brand confectionaries.
Another seller at a Long Dinh shop, Quynh Anh, also said that her shop has been visited by many foreign customers, all of whom are keen on the taste of Vietnamese mooncakes.

Nowadays, many kinds of mooncakes are on sale for a month before the Moon Festival. It has become customary for businessmen and families to present these cakes to their clients or relatives as an expression of their sentiments.

Source: VOV

Moon cake: from an autumn tradition

2011-09-06T21:19:00.001-07:00

Moon cake: from an autumn traditionMoon Cakes (banh Trung Thu) are a sweet specialty found throught Vietnam in mid-autumn.

Just a few decades ago, moon cakes were only a small part of the Vietnam’s festival. Then, they were mostly hand-made with plain ingredients. ‘Banh deo’, the white cake was made with green beans and lotus seeds. ‘Banh nuong’, the brown one, was made with meat, melon seeds, sesame, egg yolk, lemon leaves and kumquat peels. Both kinds can be square or round, and have a bright yoke inside to represent the moon.

They are often given to children to celebrate the festival.

Nowadays, however, the cakes are becoming more sophisticated. A number of manufacturers add exotic ingredients, such as shark fin, abalone.

A chef from Metropole Hotel Hanoi, which has had some eight years producing moon cakes, said that besides traditional ingredients like green bean, lotus seed or salted egg they are creating new flavours with ingredients like carmel and walnut. They are also making large cakes in the shape of fish and moon. This year the hotel produces some 3,000 boxes of cake against 2,000 boxes last year.

Some new hotels are also following their predecessors like Metropole, Daewoo, Hilton, etc. to take advantage from this festival. Silk Path Hotel on Hang Bong Street has also set up a swanky moon cake stall at the lobby to display their first batch. According to the hotel manager, Cesar M.Castro, they are just making 1,000 boxes for this season. “We hire a good Hanoi chef with over ten years of experiences in making moon cakes to make our first products,” he revealed. “We apply just traditional methods and ingredients into our cakes but invest more on the cover and pack so as to make it a nice piece for people to give one another on this special occasion.”

Newly-established Crowne Plaza Hotel on Le Duc Tho Street has just cooperated with two Chinese chefs to produce their own products for the festival. Their chef Can Hong Huang boasts that he has been working in Vietnam for many years and understands people’s taste very well. So he is confident that their four kinds of ‘Banh nuong’ with both traditional and new flavours will please customers’ taste.

Still, many people prefer the taste of traditionally-made cakes.

Therefore, some bakeries are still following traditional methods and employing just traditional ingredients into their cakes. Gia Thinh Shop on Hang Duong, Ninh Huong on Hang Dieu or Do The Gia on Dong Tac and Thanh Cong Street are still popular places for those who love the traditional flavours.

A customer at Do The Gia stall says that her family are always fond of the natural flavours and unique taste of traditional cakes. “We cannot take the cakes with new ingredients and strange flavours even though they are said to be precious and expensive,” she expresses. “Therefore traditional cakes are usually the best choice for us to enjoy or give to our friends or relatives who live far away from Hanoi.

People’s loyalty to traditional cakes is attributed to its special taste and the taste comes from the fresh ingredients and complicated process of making. Do Nang Ty, who has had more than 60 years making moon cake and is now owner of Do The Gia, says that Hanoi people are very meticulous in cooking and a ‘Banh nuong’ must have fat meat, chicken, Chinese sausages, melon seeds, seasame, almond in its content and fresh lemon leaves, young kumquat fruits, and a kind of scented wine called Mai Que Lo to make its flavour.

“And this is why traditional cakes have special and unique flavours that the others aromatized with artificial scent cannot compare,” he explained.

The price for a full moon

In the past, they also used to be quite cheap. The real price of one is around VND30,000-50,000. But these days, they are often considered a luxury gift, and packaged with elaborate boxes, and maybe a bottle of wine.

The “Montes Alpha M” from Daewoo Hanoi Hotel, is priced at VND 6.06 million.

Tips for choosing a moon cake:

- Moon cake manufacturers all have their stalls on many streets in Hanoi. To avoid fake products you should buy here or at big shops or supermarkets but not at small general stores.

- Moon cakes all have very short expiry date, so you should check it before buying.

Source: VNA

Hanoi Nighttime Flower Market

2011-09-04T23:46:00.000-07:00

Not too far outside Hanoi’s old quarter is Hanoi’s fabulous flower market. Many have never had the opportunity to experience the bustling, naturally-perfumed marketplace because it takes place starting at about 3 am.

Every day after harvesting, a multitude of different types of flowers are loaded up onto small trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles and transported to Hanoi’s flower market and awaiting florists. The flowers finally arrive at about 3am to a well-lit parking lot outside of a large automobile retailer. The market area includes an area for buying and selling flowers, as well as a pretty good selection of early morning eats.

When you arrive the fragrance is first to engulf you. As you wander through the colourful activity you will be astonished by the seemingly million different varieties of flowers. Roses, gaberas, and orchids abound, the florists of Hanoi are on a mission to buy-up the freshest and most vibrant of these floral treasures for their morning customers.

If you do decide to go, don’t forget to bring your camera and some spending money. Surely, you will not leave without buying at least a small bouquet for your helpful receptionist; or better yet, your favourite Footprint travel consultant.

Footprint can arrange private tours to the flower market. For more information phone or email Footprint at traveltips@footprint.vn.

Rice Harvest in Sapa, Vietnam

2011-08-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

This morning we called Ly Man May, a homestay owner in Taphin village, in Sapa, to ask her about her, her family, and the rice. In only a week the infamous terraced landscape in Sapa will turn from green to gold marking the rice harvest season. For tourists wanting to experience this extra special time of year, booking a trip to Sapa needs to be done soon.

From the telephone call this morning all is good in Taphin and Sapa. The weather is great and the rice is tall and healthy. The villagers at a resting period just finished the harvesting of the corn. For now, a daily venture out into the rice terraces to check the maturity of the rice, is a part of some of the most critical decision making they will make all year.

The rice will need to be timed just perfect according to its readiness, the weather, and what the ancestors say is good day for harvesting. Then the water will be drained from the paddies and the rice let to dry. During this period Sapa becomes a patchwork of greens, yellows, and golds - a photographer’s mecca. The slurry of activity during this time is invigorating.

It is a lot of work to harvest the rice. The stocks need to be cut, then the rice needs to be separated from the stocks, bagged and transported. Everyone is at work. Families team up to ensure that each family’s yield is collected in the two or three days it needs to be finished. There is usually a big celebration marking each family’s completion. Nevertheless, it is up early the next morning to start the same process in a neighbor’s nearby plot.

Tourists are more than welcome! In our conversation with Ly Man May this morning she agreed that having tourists join in the work would be helpful. Footprint’s relationship with the village of Taphin and the villagers that live there ensure an experence that will not soon be forgotten by both tourists nor the villagers.

If you are interested in this type of trip a 3-4 night Sapa trekking tour is highly recommended with two days (that means adding an extra day) of working in the fields. Please make your bookings a soon as possible to guarantee space. Being flexible while in Hanoi will also help in making sure you are there on the right day. Remember, it is only about a week away from harvest time!

Xe Om Culture in Vietnam

2011-08-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

For some Vietnam is synonymous with motorcycles. Everywhere you look there is a motorcycle; maybe its a motorcycle cruising along a bouncy countryside road driven by a ten year old, or an entire family or five heading to the movies, or someone helping to move a neighbour’s refrigerator to a new home across town. It is a joy to sit and watch the impossibilities that are absurdly achievable on a motorbike in Vietnam. Nevertheless this is the way people get around.

Most tourists on their Vietnam tour will opt to take the visually safer option, the taxi. However, if you are a one or two persons, most Vietnamese will suggest the much quicker, and generally cheaper, xe om (pronounced ’say ohm’), motorcycle taxi. On just about every corner - and usually the same drivers are found on the same corners everyday - you will find ready and waiting xe om drivers. All are equipped with helmets for their passengers (as it now is the law in Vietnam) as well as intense bargaining skills.

The prices usually range on how many people you want to take on the motorbike (two people are feasible, but best to take only one), how bad the road may be, and how far you want to go. Approximately 10,000 - 15,000 dong per kilometre is reasonable, but you will find that the price gets cheaper as your Vietnamese gets better.

Nevertheless, finally strapping on your helmet, mounting the bike, then whizzing off into the busy motorcycle-filled streets of Vietnam is true exhilaration. Becoming a part of the organized chaos that is Vietnam traffic is an amazing experience; and, actually relatively safe. No one is ever going that fast and the rules of the road in Vietnam are conducive to the number of users. A beep of the horn is not to tell someone to get the heck out of way, instead it is to say hey there, I’m coming up on your left.

So even if it is to take a few evening laps around Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem lake, it is highly suggested that you get your wits about you, and head out into the streets of Vietnam on a motorcycle!

Vietnam tourism kept being promoted in China

2011-08-18T22:05:00.000-07:00

Vietnam National Tourism Administration and several tourism agencies will operate two programs to promote and introduce destinations of Vietnam tour to their Chinese counterparts in September and October.

As scheduled, Vietnam travel agencies will participate in Guilin International Tourism Exhibition Fair on September 16th to 18th. The fair is expected to welcome some 800 tourism units from 50 countries and territories over the world and 16 Chinese provinces.

A road-show to introduce Vietnamese tourism and to meet with Chinese businesses and agencies will be held on October 16th to 22nd in three provinces of Hunan, Jiangxi and Fujian.

China is a main market for Vietnam tourism, accounting for one fourth (nearly 786,000 arrivals) of the international tourists to Vietnam in the first seventh months of this year.

This year has seen a decline in Vietnam tourism promotion programs in China; however, this market grew 53.5 per cent, mainly for destinations in northern and central regions. Chartered flights have brought tourists from Kumming, Guangzhou and Shanghai to Da Nang and some spots in Thua Thien-Hue and Quang Nam provinces.

Unfortunately, the number of Chinese tourists to Ho Chi Minh City by air has dropped significantly.

Last week, Tourism Association of Quang Ninh Province established a 27-member club to receive Chinese tourists through the Mong Cai Border Gate. Members of the club will design and carry out various activities in order to improve tour quality to avoid price competitiveness.

Source: TBKTSG

Visa Guidance for travelers to Vietnam tour

2011-08-18T22:03:00.000-07:00

Vietnam has made strides to make visa easier for tourists to enter the country. The Immigration Department, Ministry of Public Security has officially from September 15, 2003 issued Regulation on visa on arrival for all foreigners to Vietnam tour (Related Articles in National Ordinance No. 24/2000/PL-UBTVQH10). Instead of taking time to get visa stamped at Vietnamese Embassy, visitors can get stamped visa at the border gates.

In order to process Vietnam visa for foreigners, you can apply visa on arrival or visa on code.
We suggest you should apply for visa on arrival because its procedure is simple, no fail and additional fee.
Website vietnamvisaonline.net will guide you procedure to apply for visa on arrival:
Step 1 - Fill in the Visa Form
Fill in the Vietnam Visa Application Form - only takes a couple of minutes.
Step 2 - Confirm and Pay
Confirm the information for processing your visa and pay the service fee.
Step 3 - Get your Approval Letter
After 1 to 2 working days, we will send to you Visa Approval Letter and pick up your visa at the
Vietnam international airports.

You will be provided:
1. Your pre - approval letter in GPEG.
2. Visa on arrival form which should be filled in advanced to save time at Vietnam airport in PDF.
Our guidance in PDF.
Check your Approval Letter again for all correct information. Without no mistakes, please print Approval Letter and then get on board, submit at check-in desk to get stamp visa.
Step 4 - Get your Stamped
Bring Visa Approval Letter, passport, 2 photos, exit and entry form, and stamping fee to get your visa stamped at the Vietnam international airports.

Please note these information:

1. Prepare 02 latest passport-sized photos (in color, 4*6cm size, with a face straight forward)
2. Show this printed approval to the Airlines when you get on board.
3. Check your passport again to make sure your passport is valid at least six months as well as all the information in the visa approval letter is correct.
4. Beside the paid service fee, on checking in Vietnam airport, you are required to pay stamping fee (to get your stamp on your passport) directly to the Vietnam Immigration
Officials there (USD 25/person for single entry, and USD 50/person for multiple entry visa).
Contact:

Hotline: 84-974-137-281

E-mail: support@vietnamvisaonline.net
Website: http://www.vietnamvisaonline.net
Source: Viet Travel Service

Halong Bay to collect more votes in China

2011-08-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

To promote and call for more votes for Halong Bay as one of the Seven New Natural Wonders of the World, various activities have been held in Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China.

The opening ceremony of these activities took place on August 12th by the Halong Bay Management Board.

Hundreds of delegates and international and Chinese visitors found out about Halong Bay and cast their votes for the Bay right on the first day of the program.

During the program, scheduled to end on October 30th, several publications, video clips and related materials on Halong Bay will be showcased and shown.

Halong Bay is on the list of 28 wonders and advances to the decisive third round of the vote.

The Seven New Natural Wonders of the World will be announced on November 11th.

Source: HNM

Diversified tours for National Day

2011-08-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

To celebrate National Day local tourism companies are pulling out the big guns and launching some spectacular trips for travellers to Vietnam tour to choose from.

A representative of Saigontourist said that the company has prepared over 100 domestic and foreign tours. Among them, there are trips to Nha Trang, Da Nang, Phan Thiet, Con Dao and Phu Quoc, which are all great choices for a three-day vacation.

Apart from the popular tours from the capital, customers in Hanoi this year can enjoy a four-day tour to Ha Giang-Dong Van stone plateau which departs on September 1 and costs VND3.65 million per guest or the five-day trip to Son La-Dien Bien-Lai Chau-Sapa, leaving on August 31 and costing VND4.65 million per guest).

Tourists travelling from Ho Chi Minh City have the option of a four-day tour to Cai Be-Can Tho-Chau Doc-Ha Tien departing on September 1 and 3, priced from VND2.5 million per guest.

Customers in Da Nang have the choice of tours to Ninh Binh, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta provinces, Hue, Phong Nha and Hoi An.

Saigontourist is launching trips to South Korea, China, Thailand, Brunei, Singapore, Cambodia and Malaysia.

To answer huge demand, Vietran Tour has also designed 28 domestic and foreign tours for tourists to choose.

There is a Halong Bay tour on a five-star boat for two days priced at VND2.35 million per guest; Hanoi-Hue-Da Nang-Hoi An four-day trip leaving on September 1 and 4 at VND6.7 million per guest; three days in Phu Quoc departing on September 1 and 2 at VND2.99 million per guest; Hanoi-Mui Ne four-day trip leaving on September 1 and 4 at VND8.39 million per guest; Hanoi-Da Nang-Hoi An four-day trip departing on September 1 and 4 at the price of VND6.49 million per guest and Hanoi-Nha Trang three-day trip leaving on September 1 and 2 at VND7.79 million per guest.

Source: thesaigontimes

Building tourism trademarks for the northwestern region

2011-08-03T21:31:00.001-07:00

A press conference was held in Hanoi on August 3 to introduce a tourism programme in the northwestern region, with particular emphasis in Son La province, this year.

Cam Ngoc Minh, Chairman of Son La provincial People’s Committee, said he hopes that through the programme, both local and foreign visitors will learn more about the northwestern region in general and Son La province in particular.

Minh, who is also head of the organizing board, expressed his wish that investors will continue to pour further investment into the region through the programme.

The programme, the first of its kind for the northern province of Son La, aims to introduce and develop trademarks for tourism products for the region, strengthen cooperation among localities, and take full advantage of the natural landscapes, historical relics, and cultural identities of ethnic groups.

It is also expected to turn the tourism industry in the region - and in Son La in particular - into a tourism centre for the northwestern area in order to greatly contribute to the country’s socio-economic development.

The programme will last from August 27 to September 2 this year.

(Source: VOV)

The Vietnam Sea Village Festival opens today

2011-08-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

The Vietnam Sea Village Festival opens today in the central coastal province of Ninh Thuan with participation of troupes from the south-central coastal provinces.

The opening ceremony will be organised tomorrow night and broadcast live on Vietnam Television.

Dubbed "Ninh Thuan – A Destination for Vietnamese Sea Culture," the festival includes a wide range of activities such as a traditional cuisine show to introduce local folk foods, a photo exhibition honouring daily life and the socio-economic development of fishermen, as well as an art performance and sporting event to highlight traditional cultural characteristics of villages along the coast of Vietnam.

The festival will involve more than 1,000 folk artists, actors and actresses from south central coastal cities and provinces, including Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Binh Thuan, Ninh Thuan, Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City.

The festival offers a chance for localities to promote cultural and marine tourism, raise public awareness of and appreciation for the country's sea and islands, said Phan Quoc Anh, director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

"This is also an opportunity to respect folk games and traditional festivals of the local people," he said.

The festival is organised by the provincial People's Committee and will run until August 4.

With a long seaside and high mountains near the coast, Ninh Thuan Province is famous for destinations such as Vinh Hy Bay, Ninh Chu and Ca Na beaches and Nam Cuong Sand Dune.

Source: VNS

Vietnam welcome more British visitors

2011-07-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

European countries in general and the UK in particular are considered important markets for Vietnam travel sector.

For the last few years, the number of British travelers to Vietnam tour has increased considerably. Every year, Vietnam receives about 100,000 British visitors and this trend will continue to increase robustly in the future when direct flights between the two countries begin in December, 2011.

For years, most of the UK's major travel agents such as Explore UK, Wendy Wu, Trailfinder and SAGA have sent their visitors to Vietnam through its local partners with an increasing number of visitors to Vietnam. British visitors often choose south to north Vietnam tour packages which include important destinations such as Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh. Long day tours focus on exploring cultural features in different areas and regions or relaxation tours for older visitors. Notably, Indochina tours through Vietnam, Lao and Cambodia are top choices for British visitors.

In addition, British travel agents have also developed special Vietnam tours to attract visitors. According to Gecko Travel, Vietnam has numerous picturesque landscapes and natural scenes which offer opportunities for eco, countryside, beach, adventure, cultural and cuisine tours. Wendy Wu, another British travel agent, focuses on road tours which create a chance for travelers to visit famous attractions en route and stay in villages.

To attract more British visitors, Vietnam's tourism sector in general and travel agents which target the UK market have developed suitable tours and tourism promotion plan to the UK. In addition, Vietnam has implemented numerous tourism promotion activities to embellish its image in the UK market. Through cultural activities, in June 2011, the Vietnam Embassy in the UK in partnership with Oc-Eo Art Gallery, a big Asia art gallery in UK, launched an exhibition entitled "Land of Hidden Charms". The exhibition introduced the culture and beauty of Vietnamese people and Vietnam's country.

In order to promote tourism cooperation, in early July 2011, Vietnam Airlines officially announced the deployment of direct Vietnam-London Gatwick flights from December, 8th 2011. Vietnam Airlines will provide four flights a week, of which two flights will depart from Hanoi and two from Ho Chi Minh City. With the direct Vietnam-UK flights, the number of British visitors to Vietnam will increase sharply. Vietnam will become a gateway to welcome British visitors to Indochina. Vietnam Airlines are the first and the only airline with direct Vietnam-UK flights. This shows its great effort in promoting cooperation ties between Vietnam and the UK. Direct Vietnam-UK flights will contribute to completing and developing Vietnam Airlines' network. London will become the forth gateway in Europe that Vietnam Airlines exploit direct flight besides Paris, Frankfurt and Moscow. Vietnam's position which is a gateway to/from Indochina will be also strengthened.

In addition, to promote tourism activities in the near future, Vietnam and the UK will enhance exchanges on tourism information, market research, tourism development planning and management, and experience on developing special tours to attract British visitors. Vietnam travel agents will have a chance to meet with British partners to seek business opportunities, develop market and attract visitors.

Source: VEN

Doi Village - new homestay destination in Moc Chau

2011-07-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

Doi Village - new homestay destination in Moc Chau Located in Son La Province in the North-West Vietnam, Moc Chau is a vast steppe with tea hills, green pastures, herd of dairy cows grazing, attractive natural sites, traditional festivals of the locals, etc. Especially, the climate is fresh, cool year round with average temperature from 18-22ºC, which is ideal for developing leisure tourism and eco-tourism.

In order to develop sustainable tourism, conserve and promote natural beauty and culture of Moc Chau, Son La Province has allowed investing and developing homestay tourism in Doi Village, Tan Lap Commune, Moc Chau District.

The Doi Village has about 293 Thai ethnic households who mainly live on tea planting and dairy farming. There is now a house on stilts for homestay tourism in the Doi Village. With an area of 130m², including 8 rooms, the house is located in an over 2,000 m² precinct, and surrounded by green forest which brings a feeling of peace and quiet. This house was rebuilt on the old house on stilts of Mr. Ha Van Quyet’s family, so it still has architecture of the Thai group, but its lighting systems, bathrooms and toilets were new-built to ensure standards for serving visitors.

Coming to the Doi Village, visitors will have chance, together with the locals, to cook the Thai dishes from the available materials in the garden, and enjoy shows performed by the villagers. In addition, visitors will be able to experience the daily life of the locals and learn more about their history, community culture. Visitors will also be able to go to the forest to pick medicinal herb and tea, climb mountain, raise dairy cows, go fishing at the stream or visit nearby places such as grottoes of Trung Xa, Phay Don where graves have existed there for hundreds of years.

To attract more visitors travel to Moc Chau, Son La Province will continue to expand homestay tourism model in the Doi Village and other villages in the Moc Chau District, and also focus on developing craft villages, constructing stores of traditional handicrafts to meet the visitors’ shopping need and develop local economy.

More information:

From Hanoi, going along National Highway 6 about 190km, turning right about 3km visitors will meet the t-junction in Moc Chau Farm Town (Moc Chau District), turning left and going toward to Tan Lap Commune about 30km, visitors will arrive in the Doi Village.

Source: TITC

Vietnam’s pho, spring roll listed in top world foods

2011-07-28T00:21:00.000-07:00

Vietnam’s pho, spring roll listed in top world foodsVietnam’s “pho” and “goi cuon” (fresh spring roll) have been added to the list of the world’s 50 most delicious foods by the CNN GO website of the US CNN television channel.

In an article introducing the world’s 50 most delicious foods, CNN recognised that many dishes were worth travelling around the world to enjoy.

In the Asia-Pacific region, Thailand and Vietnam saw the largest number of dishes honoured in the list. Among them, Vietnam’s pho and fresh spring roll were described as comparable to Japan’s sushi, Italy’s pizza, Thailand’s som tam and Iran’s kebab.

Originated in Vietnam’s southern region, spring roll includes lean and fat pork, shrimp and fresh herbs wrapped in rice paper. For this reason, many foreigners described the spring roll as a ‘fast food’ of Vietnam.

As a symbol of the Vietnamese cuisine culture, pho is present anywhere around the world where Vietnamese people live. In addition to rice noodles, thinly-sliced beef or chicken meat and broth as the main ingredients, a slice of fresh lemon and a splash of chilli sauce are indispensable to a delicious bowl of pho.

Major US newspapers such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and the Boston Globe ran articles praising pho.

(Source: VNA)

Ministry rejects ' Vietnam tourism ' slogan

2011-07-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has rejected ‘Vietnam - A Different Orient’ as the official slogan of the Vietnam travel for the 2011-2015 period, an official said.

Hoang Thi Diep, deputy head of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), said relevant departments and experts didn’t agree with the Cowan Design Company’s proposal.

Earlier this year, Cowan won the VNAT slogan and logo contest but the arrangement hasn’t worked out as planned.

“We have decided not only to collect ideas from the contest winner but also from those who finished second and third. The ministry has agreed to seek another work,” she told the Daily.

The ministry has entrusted VNAT to cooperate with European experts of the EU-funded project for Vietnam’s tourism named the Environmentally and Socially Responsible Tourism Capacity Development Program (ESRT) in Vietnam from 2011 to 2015 to seek a new slogan and logo.

“We expect the final work to be completed later this year,” she said.

In late 2005, Vietnam travel authorities chose ‘Vietnam - the Hidden Charm’ as the new slogan for the tourism industry’s 2006-10 push and due to the delay the industry is still using the old slogan for marketing activities at home and abroad.

“We need to also make effective programs as well as having a new slogan and logo to find customers worldwide,” she said.

She said VNAT in the second half of this year would submit a plan to establish the National Tourism Promotion Department to carry out activities to promote the nation’s tourism.

Source: SGT

Vietnam’s travel revenue rises 35% in first half

2011-07-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Vietnam’s travel revenue in the year’s first half surged a staggering 35.5% to VND62 trillion, or more than US$3 billion, compared to VND45 trillion in the year-ago period, the national tourism body said.

The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism attributed the strong rise to higher service prices, the bigger number of both local and foreign travelers, and the strong growth of the high-spending visitors segment.

Nguyen Van Tuan, head of the tourism authority, told the Daily on Tuesday that the country’s tourism welcomed over 2.96 million foreign visitors in the period, up 18.1% year-on-year while the number of domestic travelers was also high at over 17.5 million. “The sharp increase in the number of guests local and foreign alike using high-end services at tourist destinations contributed strongly to the income of the sector. The growth in the period was also due to better service quality,” he said.

He said that the average occupancy rate at high-end hotels and resorts, especially those in the beach areas, was high in the first half of this year.

The country currently has 12,000 tourism accommodations with 235,000 rooms. Three- to five-star facilities make up 19% of the total number of rooms.

There are 48 five-star hotels with over 12,000 rooms, 110 four-star hotels with nearly 13,500 rooms and 235 three-star hotels with nearly 16,400 rooms.

The high-ranking official also added that the industry was facing higher costs, which pulled up service prices in the first half.

“Prices of materials for the food and beverage sector increased at double-digit rates, prompting the final price to strongly increase too,” Tuan said.

Tuan said the average length of international visitors’ stay in the country is about 10.5 days and they spend an average of US$1,024 per guest, excluding the airfare. Visitors from destinations such as Australia and Russia stayed in the country longer than those from other destinations.

According to him, the average length of foreigners’ stay in some big cities like Ho Chi Minh City was lower than the country’s average rate.

Ho Chi Minh City, for example, recorded the average length of foreign visitors’ stay at 2.5 days, or just one-fourth of the country’s average because many foreign visitors just transit at Tan Son Nhat International Airport before going to other destinations especially the beach areas for travel and relaxation.

Source: The Saigon times

Quang Binh-advantages for developing tourism

2011-07-11T22:01:00.001-07:00

Recently, Quang Binh is also destinations attract foreign to Vietnam tour. Quang Binh is just like an imposing picture with beautiful forest, sea and many other landscapes that are very famous as Ngang pass, Ly Hoa pass, Nhat Le seaport, Hac Hai, Cong Troi lagoon and Phong Nha – Ke Bang national park.

Phong Nha cavern, one of the most beautiful landscape of Quang Binh

Quang Binh is a coastal province in North Central part. It places in the narrowest land of Vietnam. To the north, Quang Binh borders Ha Tinh province by Hoanh Son mountain chain and borders Quang Tri province to the south.

Towards the east, Quang Binh borders the East Sea and towards the west, it borders Kham Muon province of Lao by Truong Son mountain chain.

There are not many places in Vietnam that has such advantages for developing tourism like Quang Binh province. With an area of 8,065 square kilometers, Quang Binh has three kinds of geographical terrains, including forests, hills and mountains, and coastal areas.

Quang Binh has a very long beautiful seashore of about 116, 04 kilometers with white sand and blue seawater. It definitely has a stable foundation to develop a tourism resort.

This beautiful coastal land features the particularity of the North Central part, where there are various ethnic groups reside. Therefore, it has plenty of traditional cultures.

Not only that, Quang Binh is also located in a diversified biology area – where there is a system of many plants and animals and especially, most of these species are from valuable and rare genes. These factors can absolutely help Quang Binh develop the ecotourism.

In January 2009, Dong Hoi and Phong Nha – Ke Bang of Quang Binh were listed in 29 tourist attractions by Los Angeles Times newspaper. Phong Nha – Ke Bang national park is also listed as one of the world’s natural wonders by UNESCO.

Quang Binh has some important transportation routes such as highway 1A, Ho Chi Minh road, railway line North – South. In addition, this province also has maritime traffic (Hon La and Gianh port) and air traffic (Dong Hoi airport). These strong points also help to make Quang Binh become more popular.

Source: danangexplorer.com

Da Nang travel targets four million visitors in 2015

2011-07-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

Da Nang is one of the famous destination of Vietnam tour. Da Nang City’s government has approved a tourism development program for the next five years with an aim to receive four million holidaymakers in 2015.

To meet the target, the central city will develop three main categories of tourism, namely sea, resort and ecological tourism; culture, history, landscape, countryside and trade village holidays; and business, seminar and shopping tours.

The number of visitors is projected to grow by 18% annually while tourism revenue is expected at over VND3.4 trillion in 2015. The tourism sector is expected to make up 7% of the city’s gross domestic product (GDP) instead of 5.12% currently.

Local government plans to set aside nearly VND3.2 trillion for the program with VND167 billion coming from the State budget.

The city’s government has asked related agencies to carry out tourism projects in Son Tra Peninsula, Ngu Hanh Son cultural park, Lang Van, Hai Van Pass and Bach Dang tourist street.

It will focus on high-class sea tourism services and waterway, shopping, leisure and business projects, speed up promotion programs and human resources training.

Da Nang aims to receive three million domestic and one million international visitors in 2015.

Source: The Saigon times

Rong house-attractive destination for travelers to Vietnam tour

2011-06-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

A jubilant ceremony was held on June 19 to inaugurate a Rong house in Kon Klor Village in Kon Tum City, one of the biggest traditional communal houses of ethnic minority people in the Central Highlands.

The house was rebuilt on the foundation of an old one, which was burnt down in May 2010. The house is measured at 22m in height, 17m in length, and 6.5m in width, on a total area of 100m². It is built using traditional materials such as iron wood, bamboo and leaves.

Local people contributed materials and working days to build the house which is expected to be an attractive destination for travelers to Vietnam tour.

(Source: VNA)

Domestic tourists change travel habit

2011-06-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

More Vietnamese people took domestic tours in the first five months of the year despite the nation’s economic doldrums but their travel habit changed from last year.

A report by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism says around 17.5 million local people traveled in January-May, half a million higher than the total number recorded in the first half of last year.

Many tour operators in Ho Chi Minh City have posted growth. However, they said more local tourists were inclined to shorten their holidays, with short-haul tours of southern destinations, and budget and free & easy tours preferred.

Tran The Dung, deputy director of the Young Generation Travel Company, said the company’s turnover in the first five months was down nearly 20% though the number of its customers grew.

Many corporate customers of Vietnam travel firms tend to select road rather than air tours for their staff. “Big corporate groups have still come to us, buying yearly tours for their staff but shortening the tours and choosing automobiles as a main means of transport,” he said.

Domestic travelers served by Fiditourist in January-May were up 30% year-on-year. Due to their limited budgets, many of them opted for near destinations like Phu Quoc Island and the resort town of Phan Thiet, instead of far-away areas the central and northern regions.

“Many tourists, especially those traveling with family, just purchased some travel services. We’ve seen more guests asking for car and hotel reservation services only,” said Nguyen Ngoc An, head of the Domestic Travel Department of Fiditourist.

To cope with the new travel trend, Vietnam tour operator have launched a host of promotion tours and changed tour arrangements along with cost cutting.

Doan Thi Thanh Tra, marketing manager of Saigontourist Travel Service Co., said budget tours rose at the company in the first five months. Saigontourist has launched everyday tours, instead of focusing on those departing on weekends as in the past.

She said airlines and tourism service providers were cooperating in promotional tours for fear local people would suspend their travel plans due to rising prices.

Source: SGT

Vietnam where I saw the most beautiful

2011-05-31T22:09:00.000-07:00

In your eyes, where the place Vietnam most beautiful ? Our questions are foreign photographer responded with these images upset: the picture angle is so simple that with them – people from a distance – that’s where most Vietnam features. And more beautiful images are to carry the most emotional story.

Surface of the Ba be Lake

Of all the places I’ve been to in Vietnam, causing nowhere and touched fresh my soul with Ba be Lake that day. That day, we went back a video with beautiful images of Vietnam travel, suddenly there are six women in traditional costumes of the Tay is smooth sailing on the lake near where we shoot. So glad we invited two people to model for us. Do not hesitate, despite the weather and the director asked to turn back, return, the two women still try to smile real big to get the best picture for us.

Back now though Ba be lake many times since taking this picture, it’s hard to see the picture of Tay people wearing traditional dress here, but the image of two women always keep on smiling and generous in my mind. And so I found from Vietnam’s most beautiful places.

Love letter S

First time visit to Chau Doc on the west region, I saw the beauty of the season rice area Ta Pa of Tri Ton distance Chau Doc by 20km. Sitting on the scenery from the hills, I’m ecstatic in front of a vast field of golden wheat and blue layers. After 5-10 minutes, I saw a big tree and a very impressive way, S-shaped drawing up of Vietnam’s beloved. And the assiduous of mothers with heavy two shoulders quietly away in the rice fields have suggested in my real passions.

Fun time

In Sapa, when not in school, the Mong baby help parents sell traditional gifts such as handmade wallet, or souvenirs made from raw materials to earn in the forest. With no guests, the children play by holding the interesting folk game like me takes refreshment stalls in this way. The box game, jump rope, hopscotch is very attractive because despite differences in culture, history and language of our childhood also experienced moments like this.

To Vietnam, I discovered a number of major cities, but where I enjoy most Sapa. I myself moved from noisy Saigon, bustling Hanoi, on the misty highlands full of SaPa. And to come here, I have the impression of a land of fun colorful culture. Price as cultural identity to be kept here forever; do not fade over months on…

Peddled wares

One night, I was lost in the small streets of Hanoi. I have ventured to ask the way woman selling rice vermicelli in the lane. She is busy with scoop each bowl of noodles to visitors, who sit around waiting for food, has always urged her out but she still put bowl down, pointing the way for my guidance. She was laughing and everyone around you is laughing. I feel quietly pleased.

I have read somewhere that the sidewalk food in Vietnam is very interesting. And to come here, I discovered something new again. Sidewalk food in Vietnam is not only interesting because of the abundance of spices, but also by the friendliness of the people. Yes, delicious food around us when there is sincere.

Marking time

Old cars on the famous Hang Ngang in Hanoi. Features blends old and new are always giving me good feelings. I appreciate what goes through but also to the future. Hanoi thousand years of beautiful and graceful as the morning fog in Hoan Kiem Lake and spread around, covering the tree-lined streets, the crowded streets, the cone course, lakes and parks. With dozens of pagodas, communal houses, temples hidden away, with restaurants in the street find their ancient flavor, this city deserves to anyone taking the time to explore the treasures in the quiet, peaceful and forget the loud sounds, speakers, and the sound of motorcycle engines are everywhere.

I have had countless times and went walking along the horizontal motorcycle cities are constantly expanding this. But Hanoi’s Old Quarter is always deep in my heart.

Truong Tien Bridge

As I was walking on Truong Tien Bridge (Hue), a cyclo runs and the children shouted “Hello.” I also see this scene, this smile, and these greetings across Vietnam, but where I come across. Dumplings car by pushing the older woman on the bridge also reminds me something interesting: great food in Vietnam, despite enjoying the sidewalk.

I took this picture with a new discovery, an assertion is true about my country than I have been engaged for several years: Truong Tien bridge not Trang Tien as I (and many) each mistake.
Morning kiss

Morning, the floating markets near Long Xuyen (An Giang province), the boat carrying a man and a woman to visit a surfing boat light food. Between the noises of passing ships, my dear man I call: “Hello, hello.” When I raised the camera up, linked arm in arm across his neck woman hugged and kissed a bit. The woman hesitated; perhaps the first time she was married midst of people should blush, only laughed. I love this moment, I like Vietnamese people, so sincere. I saw Vietnamese little kiss at crowded places, but so do not mean they can not show love.
The people that I met in Mekong River Delta were sincere, generous. Especially river man met me always ready to offer a glass as if had known each other for so long.

Source: xinchaovietnam

RTC workshop on Environmental Impacts of Tourism

2011-05-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Vietnam’s beautiful beaches, soaring mountains, and natural attractions such as Halong Bay, attract millions of visitors each year and generate significant economic benefits for the country and its regions. However, whilst nature-based tourism may offer significant opportunities for both employment and conservation, the sector must be managed sustainably in order to ensure that the growth does not hamper the essence of the product.

Responsible travel club of Vietnam was form in May 2010, the aim of this associations is to work together among the tour operators and other tourism stakeholders on promotion of responsible travel through travel products, environmental training and community based tourism.

Held at the end of May at Lake Lavie Vu Linh, a popular ecotourism destination north of Hanoi, the RTC has convened a training workshop to examine ways in which the local tourism industry can operate sustainably in Vietnam’s fragile environment whilst at the same time work towards its protection.

Over 3 days the workshop will bring together tour operators from Hanoi and as far afield as Hue – central Vietnam. Workshop partners include SNV – Netherlands Development Organisation and WWF – World Wildlife Fund, with additional presentations being given by Vietnam national administration of tourism - VNAT and ENERTEAM.

Club tour opeartors: Footprint Vietnam Travel, Sisters Tours, Active Travel, Indochina Travel Land, Free Wheeling tours, GSO and Handspan are now busy preparing for this event. Also our partners such as WWF and SNV are also putting a great efforts together with us to make sure it will be a fruitful workshop.

Other non-member tour operators will also join us, like Vietnam tourism in Hanoi, HG Travel in Hanoi, Vietran tours, Huong Giang travel Hue… we believe this workshop will be a great success.

On Day One delegates will depart Hanoi for Lake Lavie Vu Linh. Upon arrival delegates will be taken on a boat and walking tour of the Lake and the Lavie Vu Linh ecotourism project and take some time to discuss the fragile beauty of the Lake.

During Day Two delegates get stuck into the core issues affecting tourism and the environment in Vietnam, finding solutions and presentation to all. Attending sessions such as Vietnam’s biodiversity values, tourism’s impact on the environment, Vietnam’s environmental law and regulations, environmental policy development, and green suppliers.

Before departing back to Hanoi on Day 3 delegates are able to hear about WWF’s work in tourism in Vietnam and take motivation from SNV’s presentation on environmental better practice from around the world.

The tourism environmental training workshop will be held from 27th to 29th May, 2011.

Change in Product Department at Footprint Travel

2011-05-10T20:07:00.001-07:00

Footprint sets our first foot in 2001, it has been almost 10 years of operations, we have built our company, not big, but very stable, due to our unique offers of Vietnam tour to clients world wide. The success is for everyone at the Footprint family but we have to reserve our big appreciation to the product department who are creative in different innovative travel products.

Today is Hien last day as the role of the product executive, our first setting for her was a travel consultant, tour guide and she was appointed to be the product executive in 2008.

After Thuc, it has been more than 3 years of Hien’s great efforts to travel to learn from you - our travel clients, from our tour guide, tour operators and even our drivers on how to better our products to make it best for you - the travelers.

We thank you Hien for your all her dedication to make it easy for all the travel consultant at Footprint and good luck to her, Hien will be taking even more important role - as
Also it’s Dien first day on his role of the product executive and tour operation manager, he has been almost 7 years working as the tour operators and travel consultants. His passion and enthusiasm on tourism makes him travel to lots of places in Vietnam, "Ha Giang his love and if you ask him what is the best way to get there, he won't hesitate to tell you to jump on a motorbike! You can travel to the remote mountainous areas to see the unusual lifestyle of local people, and impossible scenery on unbelievable roads.

Footprint management board can not express of our all words for Dien’s dedications on work and travel, the whole Footprint team wishing Dien with the best and good luck with his new position.

If I just visit Phu Quoc island, can I have visa exemption?

2011-05-05T02:45:00.000-07:00

When we offer Vietnam tour to friends and travelers, some friends ask if we just want to travel and be lazy there in Phu Quoc island, can they have a visa exemption.

In regard of this, in late 2005 the government passed regulations specifically in relation Phu Quoc Island entry, exit and residence of foreigners or Vietnamese holding foreign passports. These regulations are provided below with more details.

Under this Decision, foreigners and Vietnamese holding foreign passports who are, entering, exiting from, and residing in Phu Quoc Island for a stay period not exceeding 15 days are exempt from visas. The following section provides a summary of those regulations.

International flight arrivals

Foreigners who enter via another international border-gate of Vietnam and stay in its transit lounge before travelling to Phu Quoc Island shall also be exempt from visas. With the opening of the new airport international terminal in Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat) foreigners will soon be able to transit from international flights directly to Phu Quoc, exempt from visa requirements for up to 15 days. Passports must be valid for at least 45 days. After arriving in Phu Quoc Island, if visitors want to travel other localities or stay in the island for more than 15 days, visitors are required to visit the immigration department who is responsible for issuing visas.

Arriving by ship via the East Sea?

Foreign-tourist ships can arrive or leave Duong Dong harbour in accordance with agreements signed with Vietnamese tourist companies. Foreign tourist ships which visit Duong Dong area & other areas (except restricted areas) must comply with Vietnamese immigration laws and Phu Quoc regulations, i.e. 15 day stay allowed exempt from Visa. Citizens of south-east Asian countries listed above, do not need certification when entering Duong Dong Town for up to 15 days. If visitors want to travel outside Phu Quoc Island and/or more than 15days, they will be required to obtain visa clearance provided by immigration in Duong Dong town.

Khau Vai love market festival in Ha Giang - 2011

2011-05-04T21:48:00.001-07:00

The Khau Vai love market was recently recognised as an historical and cultural relic by the Ha Giang People’s Committee.This is also destinations attracted large number of visitors to Vietnam tour.

The Khau Vai love market, known locally as the Phong Luu love market, takes place annually on the 26 - 27 days of the third lunar month in Khau Vai village, Khau Vai commune, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province. The love market originated as a meeting spot for couples from ethnic minorities such as the Mong, Tay, Nung, Giay, who loved each other, but could not marry. The market offers tourists an opportunity to observe the comedy regarding the market’s legend, watch performances, admire the clothing of ethnic minorities as well as take part in traditional games.

According to Nguyen Trung Thuong, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, a project aimed at transforming Ha Giang into a tourist hub, will be soon implemented. “We will soon start restoring the Ong and Ba temples as well as the more than 90 year old Khau Vai market. We also plan to build more tourist hostels. The entire project is expected to reach completion by 2015,” he said.

(Source: VNS)

Who can have visa exemption for Vietnam?

2011-04-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Footprint is pleased to offer the following information for travelers to Vietnam tour with the following visa exemption.

The Vietnamese people that hold foreign passports and foreigners who are their husbands, wives and children are exempt from visa requirements to enter Vietnam and are allowed to stay for not more than 90 days. In order to be granted visa exemption certificates at Vietnamese representative offices abroad, Vietnamese overseas need the following conditions;

- PRC - Foreign-issued Permanent Residence certificate with the validity of at least six months since the date of entrance.

- VEP - Visa Exemption Paper is granted by Vietnamese appropriate authorities.

For those who want stay more than 90 days must apply for visa according to current stipulations before their entrance.

Bilateral visa exemption:

- The citizens of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Laos holding valid ordinary passports are exempt from visa requirements and are allowed to stay for not more than 30 days; Philippines is allowed to stay for not more than 21 days.

- The citizens of China, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan, North Korea, and Rumania holding valid ordinary passports for official mission and citizens of 52 countries holding valid diplomatic or official passports are exempt from visa requirements. The duration of staying is stipulated in certain cases. For more information, please visit the website of Ministry of Foreign Affaires.

Unilateral visa exemption:

- The visa with 30-day validity is exempted for officials from ASEAN countries secretariat holding different kinds of passports.

- The citizens of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Japan and South Korea holding different kinds of passports are exempt from visa requirements and are allowed to stay for not more than 15 days.

Hope our information is of good for you, please feel free to ask us any questions at info @ footprint.vn.

Footprint team
Footprint Vietnam Travel!

Visa to Vietnam

2011-04-18T00:19:00.000-07:00

Can you do visa upon arrival to Vietnam?

Footprint Vietnam’s answer is definitely YES, you can do visa upon arrival to Vietnam but you will need to have a pre approved letter by someone or a travel company in Vietnam.

As soon as you arrive at the airports, show your approved letter, then fill out paperwork when you arrive to get a visa granted.

For booking Vietnam tour, most travel companies can do the pre-approved letter for you, we will send you the documents via email and all you need is to bring this paper with you, pack and go.

Any questions you might have for Footprint regarding the visa?

Footprintters Vietnam.

Halong travel welcomes more maritime visitors

2011-04-05T00:52:00.000-07:00

Halong travel welcome the five-star cruise liner SuperStar Aquarius with 2,200 foreign tourists and crew aboard docked at the world’s natural heritage in the northern province of Quang Ninh on April 3.

The visitors, mostly from China, were scheduled to tour around the Bay, drop by the Vung Vieng fishing village to get insight into the local fishermen’s life, and get involved in other artistic activities.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Halong travel welcomed about 2 million visitors in the first quarter of this year, including over 600,000 foreign visitors, and earned VND913 billion in revenues, a year-on-year increase of 6 percent.

Source: VOVnews

Vietnam remains a “hidden beauty” in the eyes of foreign tourists

2011-03-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Vietnam has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to show its beautiful landscapes on famous television channels CNN or BBC, or to advertise on taxis in London. However, Vietnam remains an unknown and hidden charm to foreign travelers.

The arrow that failed to reach the target

In recent years, Vietnam has been paying more attention to promoting tourism. However, the result remains modest. In the second half of 2010 alone, Vietnam spent 5.3 billion dong to run advertisement campaigns on CNN, which gobbled up 12 percent of the total budget for the yearly national tourism promotion program.

A mini survey conducted by the Vietnam Economic Forum conducted on 200 foreign travelers showed that 77 percent of foreign travelers have never seen information about Vietnam travel in mass media, advertisements or at tourism trade fairs. Ninety-three percent of polled tourists said they never see the advertisement pieces on BBC and CNN.

Vietnam also spent money to place advertisements on 27 taxis out of 10,000 taxis in London in the UK for six months. However, local dwellers said they never see the advertisements.

Vu Huy Vu, Deputy General Director of Saigon Tourist, said Vietnam needs to do many more things to popularize Vietnam travel in the world. “Vietnam needs to have more and more publications introducing Vietnam’s tourism potentials. It needs to set up tourism representative offices in other countries to promote tourism,” he said, adding that other regional countries like Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines all have representative offices in Europe and the US for tens years.

Meanwhile, a cheap but effective communication channel – Internet – has been ignored.

Ben Chua is a Singaporean person who builds and runs vietnam720, an website that uses interactive products like videos, audios to introduce attractive destinations in Vietnam.

“If you access to yoursingapore.com, you will find everything about Singapore. For example, if you type “art”, the website will show all the information about arts, from the events to places for excursions or the hotels near art centers,” he said.

Ben Chua said he has an account on Twitter to listen opinions from people about Vietnam. There is a tweet posted in every 10 seconds, which means 36,000 opinions come every hour. However, no official agency has replied to the opinions.

What is a new image for Vietnam?

In mid January 2011, the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism VNAT officially announced the result of the logo creation competition for the new period. The slogan “Vietnam – a different Orient” has won the competition. However, after two months, the slogan has not been approved to become the new slogan of Vietnam’s tourism in the new period.

It seems that foreigners still see Vietnam as a war torn country, rather than an attractive destination in peacetime. It is because Vietnam is still busy looking for a new suitable slogan to be introduced to the world.

“Vietnam is a friendly, joyful country, where the prices are reasonable. However, the images Vietnam introduces to the world do not reflect these things,” said Tim Russell, Managing Director of Come & Go Vietnam travel firm.

He believes that since Vietnam cannot build up a reasonable tourism brand, only five percent of tourists return to Vietnam for the second time, while 50 percent of tourists come to Thailand for the second time.

He went on to say that Vietnam only has been trying to attract the tourists who are interested in the culture and discoveries, while it has not been trying to attract holidaymakers. Meanwhile, tourism does not only mean discovery, but also means relaxing, sunbathing, playing golf and water sports, meals, nightlife and anything that is a part of a comfortable life.

He believes that Vietnam should look for professional consultants and should carry out surveys in many places in order to build up a professional marketing strategy.

Source:Vietnamnet

Vietnam travel welcome 1.51 million foreign tourists during first 3 months

2011-03-30T20:22:00.000-07:00

The General Statistics Office (GSO) has reported that the number of foreign tourists to visit Vietnam travel reached 1.51 million in the first three months of 2011, a year on year increase of 12%.

In March alone, Vietnam travel welcomed more than 475,700 foreign tourists, an increase of 5% compared to the same period last year.

Countries and territories recording the largest tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the first three months of 2011 include China, Korea, Japan, America, Taiwan (China), Australia, Cambodia, France, Malaysia and England.

The number of Japanese coming to Vietnam decreased only marginally despite effects of the earthquake disaster. The number of Japanese visiting Vietnam reached 43,500 in March, decreasing 8% against February 2011, but increasing 10% compared to March 2010.

During the first quarter of 2011, Ho Chi Minh City welcomed around 900,000 foreign visitors, an increase of 6% compared to the same period last year.

In 2011, the local tourism sector has set a target of welcoming nearly 5.3 million foreign tourists and providing services to more than 30 million domestic tourists.

Source:Saigon-gpdaily

Exploring Vietnam’s resort town of Nha Trang

2011-03-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

It is a striking contrast from the cool, misty town of Dalat high in southern Vietnam’s central highlands — built by the French as an escape from the sweltering heat and humidity of Saigon to the glittering seaside resort of Nha Trang, which is barely a three hour drive away.

Leaving Dalat in the cool of the morning, we wound our way down through the forests and sub-tropical jungles of the Truong Son mountain range. We passed endless villages and small towns — all a hive of activity — before finally hitting the coastal lowlands and the warm sea breezes of the East Sea and Nha Trang Bay.

Nha Trang, at first look, is certainly a touristy beachside holiday town with its wide seaside boulevards, high-rise hotel towers, tourist shops, flashy bars, restaurants and streams of motorbikes and cars.
The hustle is only exacerbated by the heat of the day and thousands of holidaymakers. But this is a resort town Vietnamese-style, where more than a millennium of history, culture and tradition combine with hectic local markets, night food stalls and a myriad of small family-run restaurants and cafes. These generate an atmosphere way beyond that of your typical Western beachside destination.

Nha Trang is certainly a town to shop, to eat on the streets and to wander, soaking up the atmosphere along the way. It is also very friendly; the locals busy making a living and getting on with life as fast as they can, after enduring so much turmoil in their recent past.

For shopping head for the Cho Dam central market near Nguyen Hong Son Street, which is a maze of stalls stacked with brand name bags, shoes, jeans, leather, silk and plenty more, and a place where bargaining is the name of the game.

Nearby is the busy Phan Boi Chau Street, full of shops, and lined with colonial-style shuttered houses. It is this constant juxtaposition of the old and the new — from colonialism to ancient temples, to modern Vietnam, that makes the place so interesting. It all fits in together nicely.

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Xong Bang Bridge and the vast Cai River estuary, is an incredible temple complex known as Cham Pongar that dates back to 700AD. The four temples, intricately carved, are dedicated to the gods and are a place of pilgrimage for many Vietnamese; the chanting of monks and incense filling the air. Families, couples and school children all come to pay homage and pray.
Below, in the Cai River estuary, Nha Trang’s traditional wooden blue fishing boats, trimmed in red, line the shore. Nha Trang, at its heart, is a fishing village and the boats still head out daily in their hundreds to the East Sea — their catch filling restaurant plates every evening. In the dark of night you can see their lights twinkling way offshore.

Unlike Thailand, there isn’t a huge massage industry in Vietnam, but one excellent way to relax is a soak in the mineral and mud baths of the Thap Ba hot springs. And for a group all in a hot mud bath together, it is loads of fun — though rather intimate.

The bubbling mineral water is 40 degrees and rich in sodium silicate while the mineral mud — a glorious thick, hot brown — stimulates the nerves. And yes, you do feel bizarrely rejuvenated when you finally wash it all off.

Nha Trang is, of course, changing. On the way to the airport the big Western-style resorts are now gaining a foothold. But hopefully, with so much imbedded history and culture, Nha Trang will not lose that individuality that makes it so attractive.

Source: travelweekly

Snow falls in Sapa

2011-03-17T00:18:00.000-07:00

Up to 15cm of snow fell for nearly three hours in and surrounding hill districts early this morning.

Le Minh Hai, deputy director of Lao Cai's Hydrometeorology Centre, said it was unusual for Vietnam for snow to fall at this time of year, which is classed as late spring or early summer.

"Snow falls normally occur from December to February," he said.

Hai said the snowflakes stirred excitement among locals and tourists.

The last time snow was recorded in Sapa, which is 2,000m above sea level, was in January 2003, but it was only a light fall.

Hai said a strong cold spell that had hit the north had brought the snow.

A Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Sapa said tourists were heading to the hills to watch the event, creating congestion on several roads.

Source: VNS

Vietnam travel attracts large numbers of Korean tourists

2011-03-17T00:16:00.001-07:00

The number of Korean tourists travel to Vietnam has increased considerably over the past 10 years, from 53,000 in 2000 to 5 million in 2010, up 230 percent, according to Hoang Thi Diep, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).

She told a seminar in Ho Chi Minh City that the Republic of Korea is now Vietnam’s second largest market for its tourism industry and the country is improving the quality of tourist services.

Cho Young Jai, General Secretary of the ASEAN-Korean Centre, said the centre plans to develop Korean-language networking for four countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar to help Korean tourists easily access information about famous scenery, food and hotel services in those countries.

Source:Vietnamnet

Vietnam travel increasingly attractive to Russian tourists

2011-03-13T22:15:00.000-07:00

Russian press circles have confirmed Vietnam travel as the most popular choice in recent times for Russian tourists, with an increase of 68 percent year on year to over 51,000 arrivals in 2010.

The Voice of Russia quoted National League of Travel authorities as saying that Vietnam joined the group of countries with the largest numbers of Russian arrivals in 2010.
The league’s press secretary, Irina Tiurina, highlighted low costs as one of the reasons that have made Vietnam the choice for Russian tourists instead of Thailand.

The number of Russian arrivals is not so big but demonstrates Vietnam ’s success, she said.
Other factors that have made the hospitality industry successful are comfortable and safe services, while it’s a good time all the year round to travel in Vietnam . Beaches in the southern central cities of Phan Thiet and Nha Trang are the most attractive to Russian tourists.
Photographer Sergei Kovalchuk said Vietnam ’s friendly environment, convenient transport and cheap transport charges were the first to make the country attractive to tourists. It also offers foreign tourists convenient trips to neighbouring Laos and Cambodia , he pointed out.
Journalist and India specialist Nina Rukavishnikova expressed her deep impression on Vietnam ’s superb long coastline.

Positive feedback from Russian tourists has backed Vietnam’s high ranking in services, especially Hanoi, which was rated top in the “price-quality” index for excellent hotel services.

Source: VN+

Vietnam Airlines promotional fare for summer 2011

2011-03-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines (VNA) has launched a program, “Welcoming Summer 2011”, with discounts on flights from Vietnam to other countries and on local routes.

Under the program, passengers on international routes of VNA can buy round trip tickets priced from USD 49 to USD 499.

Discount flights are from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) to Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Beijing, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Seoul, Pusan, Sydney, Melbourne, Paris and Frankfurt.

On local routes between Hanoi and HCMC and from Hanoi or HCMC to Danang, VNA will offer the lowest price (class P).

The program is offered for passengers in Vietnam who buy tickets during the seven days from March 15 to 21 with itineraries departing from April 1 to May 31, excluding those during the anniversary of the death of the Hung Kings, April 30 and May 1.
Source: VNS

Moc Chau- air of Spring

2011-03-09T23:53:00.000-08:00

Moc Chau (Son La) has become a favourite new destination for both daytrippers and vacationers thanks to its fresh air, green plateau atmosphere, good roads, recent devel- oped infrastructure, and especially its fresh milk products.

As if those were not enough, there is also a unique contest held here every year -the ‘Miss Cow Pageant’. Such specialities are enough to attract tourists eager to visit this peaceful plateau.Moc Chau is one of the popular tourist destinations of Vietnam tour.

Unlike other northwestern destinations, the road to Moc Chau was not so challenging, however, the scenery and landscape were truly irresistible. Ten kilometres before MocChau Commune, there is a beautiful road, meandering between two mountains and a green forest. This road lead to Ba Phach,a favourite destination for daytrip- pers and photographers. The lowlands of Ba Phach feature a village of Thai people; while up on the mountain are another three villages inhabited by Mong Xanh people.

From the top of the mountain, one can view a valley, which appears almost white due to the mass of end-of-season flowers, like clouds flowing to infinity. On the other side is a massive area of Moc Chau plateau which disappears to the horizon. The colours of the grass and the young corn all add a fresh green to this amazing scenic painting. The incredible landscape here easily lures people to an overnight stay;even though there is no hotel, or even a hostel, here. There are only some wooden-hous- es, hidden under the shade of a forest of plum trees.

The Internet is now abuzz with pictures of this place, taken by numerous photographers, both amateur and professional, all undeni-ably beautiful. However, given that this upland plateau is usually covered in fog, especially in the afternoon, the ‘windows of opportunity’ for catching a good picture are limited.

There is only one hour in the morning and another in the evening when this place shows its true beauty. At such times, lowland tourists have to quickly borrow, or more accurately rent, traditional Mong Xanh attire to pose for pictures. The colour of the dress, perhaps surprisingly, closely resembles the natural colours found in this Northwest terrain.

While it may take a little time to put on this costume, you are guaranteed photos that are sure to attract many viewers to your facebook page. Having witnessed many tourists visiting this place, the local people still get excited every time they see tourists donning their traditional costumes. In just a few minutes a whole village, from the young to the elderly, are out cheenly watching a tourist taking pictures.

Unlike in many other tourist destinations, where local people might ask for tips for having their picture taken by pho- tographers, here people shyly hideaway. Photographers can only take photos of them from a safe distance using a telephoto lens. However, the children here are active, so their photos will still be full of life and beauty.
For those who haven’t yet visited Ba Phach, there is still plenty of time to catch a great flower season. Tourists can easily see the charming scenery here in any season.

Right now, the flowers are in full bloom and at their most beautiful, but the plum forest is just starting to flourish. Once winter passes and spring comes, the plum flowers will burst out in bloom ltke white clouds flowing in the sky.
‘I have been there a couple of times now and always want to come back, because this land offers up the most amazing scenery from season to season. Just by looking at the grass, the hills, and the leaves, people can easily find peace, relaxation and Joy’, said Mr. Nguyen Thanh Binh, on returning to Hanoi from his trip to Moc Chau with friends.

Halong from on high

2011-03-09T23:50:00.000-08:00

Today, you can explore Halong Bay from unprecedented heights by going on a helicopter tour.

Halong Bay is the jewel of Vietnam travel crown, a stunning geological formation that captivates even the most travel weary and jaded of visitors.

Most people usually take a cruise around the bay. You can choose one or two night trips to enjoy the mesmerising scenery and discover wonderful coves and islets or simply enjoy the views from the top deck of your boat.

As a repeat visitor I wouldn’t say I’m tired of Halong, but I was certainly eager to discover another side of the UNESCO World Heritage Site when a friend told me about the Luxury Travel Company’s helicopter tour.

This would be a great opportunity to fly over the bay and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the limestone karst islets which, according to legend are the shards of diamond and jade, that were spat out by a family of dragons sent from heaven to help protect Vietnam from foreign invaders.

I was so excited at the prospect of climbing into a helicopter, I could hardly sleep the night before. But as the morning drew closer I started to get increasingly nervous. What if, I am scared of heights? Having never scaled any cliff faces, or jumped out of an airplane, how would I know?
Morning departure

I begin to suffer vertigo even before I arrive at Gia Lam Airport, 5km from downtown Hanoi, where I am to meet my tour guide and the helicopter crew. The flight departs at 8.30am. Still slightly anxious, I reassure myself that by flying to Halong Bay I’m at least avoiding the long, rather dangerous road from Hanoi to Hai Phong. Halong is normally more than a three-hour drive but via helicopter we expect to arrive in 45 minutes.

Our guide informs us that the Russian MI-17 helicopter seats 24 people and will reach an altitude of 300m. We are also in luck; the sky is clear and blue, a perfect day for flying. We set off and everyone is immediately glued to the windows and we see vast, beautiful rice fields pass below us.

The Red River looks like a long snake winding its way through a terracotta garden. Tran Van Huong, the captain, informs us that because a helicopter flies slower and lower than a jet, there is less chance that people will feel sick while taking off or landing. The helicopter is quite large and comfortable, but being a military chopper, there is no air- conditioning, just fans.

We are told we can visit the cockpit and talk with the four-member crew or, rather, shout at the crew –it is hard to make yourself heard above the throbbing engines!
The whole package

The Northern Serviced Flight Company, who operate the helicopter, also offer trips to Sapa in Lao Cai province and Dien Bien Phu, but tourists currently seem to prefer Ha Long Bay. The whole tour with Luxury Travel includes a cruise on a junk as well as a helicopter tour over the bay, plus transfer from Hanoi and back by chopper.

Halong Bay is certainly spectacular from the helicopter – it’s as perfect as a painting: the white sandy coves, the thick green forest, the rugged mountains and the jagged karsts jutting out of the emerald water.

I snap as many pictures as I can before the chopper lands at a heliport on General Giap Hill (named after General Vo Nguyen Giap as you might guess) Who knows when I will be 200m above Ha Long Bay again?

The chopper lands smoothly and we are back down on earth. Everyone is buzzing after the trip and I almost feel sad it’s over.

We are driven from the heliport to Bai Chay harbour, where boats and junks have gathered to meet the hundreds of tourists arriving from Hanoi. I can’t help but swagger a little smugly past the tired looking tourists clambering out of the buses and mini-vans thinking, I came by helicopter and I feel great! Coming by chopper I got to sleep in longer and had plenty of room on board.

For once, I am actually refreshed and energised as we set off to explore the caves and beaches around Ha Long. Later on we grab kayaks and paddle around, visiting floating aquaculture farms and beaches. On previous trips I was often slumped in a chair, too tired and stiff to do anything else, but today I am up for everything.

We enjoy a lavish seafood lunch on board and everyone is still in high spirits, reflecting on the amazing trip. It’s a little clichéd to say “this was unforgettable” but that’s how we felt!
After lunch the junk returns to port before we again climb on board the helicopter and set off for the capital where we arrive at 2.30pm. It’s hard to believe we still have the whole afternoon ahead of us!

Footprint showing their true value in travel Vietnam at ITB Berlin 2011.

2011-02-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Footprint Vietnam is a local travel company, locally owned by the Vietnam tour operators, they will be showing their new and innovative products of Vietnam at the biggest travel show - ITB Berlin, from March 9th to March 13rd. Stand 26A/106.

It’s time to travel Vietnam as the country is not only beautiful with friendly people and it’s very safe. Vietnam is no longer a country of war and has opened its doors to foreigners for almost 25 years now.

With 10th years in the travel business and the team has more than 35 years of experience, these experts are making every efforts to offer range of eco-friendly travel products, they can take you or your clients on a custom-made tour or a group tours to most of the destinations thoughout Vietnam.

Alan William - an English tour leader said “Their tour products are not for the common travelers, they travel off the beaten tracks, offer our customers with travel to learn and experience the culture and differences of Vietnam”

Footprint’s mission is to bring true value to your trips. They have worked tirelessly over the past years on every aspect of their company and products to make sure that your clients experience that True Value in Travel.

Come to the show to learn more about them, their unique offers and discuss your possible fam trips to Vietnam with them to have their great support. Here are their details for your appointment;

Mr. Son D
Footprint Vietnam
Stand 106, Hall 26A | Messe Berlin
Email: son [at] footprint.vn
Website: www.footprintsvietnam.com

“Cơm Việt” – a different taste !

2011-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you have ever tried “Cơm Việt” (Vietnamese plain boiled rice), you will find the difference from the boiled rice in other countries!

In an ordinary meal of Vietnamese people, together with a variety of different dishes, Com or plain boiled rice is an indespensable one, the most popular food at the main meals of the day (lunch and dinner).

Different cooking method makes “Cơm Việt” different!

In Vietnam, Com is made from different kinds of rice, typically fragrant rice is used, such as Tam Thom and Nang Huong. The main ingredients of Vietnamese plain boiled rice are commonly as follows:
- 1 cup of rice.

- 2 cups of boiling water.

- 1 teaspoonful of salt.

So, how can you make the boiled rice really delicious? If you have chance to see how Vietnamese people make a good pot of boiled rice, you will notice that its process is not so difficult. Firstly, pick the rice over, taking out all the bits of brown husk; fill the outside of the double boiler with hot water, ans put in the rice, salt and water, and cook forty minutes, but do not stir it. Then take off the cover from the boiler, and very gently, without stirring, turn over the rice with a fork; put the disk in the oven without the cover, and let it stand and dry for ten minutes. Then turn it from the boiler into a hot dish, and cover.

Other rice–made foods...

Beside the above-mentioned recipe of “Cơm Việt”, the Vietnamese people created many other rice-made foods, such as: rice ball, fried rice, rice gruel, steamed glutinous rice. Among them, making a rice ball (“Cơm nắm” in Vietnamese) is so interesting! “Cơm nắm” is a Vietnamese rice dish pressed into cylinder or sphere shape, which is sold in small alleys in Hanoi by vendors. This dish is very familiar with Vietnamese people. “Cơm nắm” has become a cheap but delicious rustic gift. When being fed up with nutritious food like vermicelli or “phở”, people often look for a frugal dish like “Cơm nắm” served with roasted sesame and ground nut.
Do you think it is easy to make a rice ball? A lot of people may say “Yes”, and you can obey the following simple process to make perfect a rice ball. To begin with, you boil the rice in a rice cooker. Please bear in mind that you have to make rice balls while the rice is hot or else it will not stick together. Next, you wet your hands and put a pinch of salt on your palms. Then, you put rice on your hand and wad up the rice and shape like cylinder or sphere. “Cơm nắm” is served with not only sesame but also other things, such as stewed fish, simmered pork or salted shredded meat. However, salted roasted sesame (and ground nut) is still the first choice. The dish is so delicious that you surely would like to taste more than once... The rice is white clear, soft and used to be wrapped in a green banana leaf, which is so attractive. However, its cover is replaced with a plastic bag or paper. The salted sesame is roasted light brown and grated, which has an appealing fragrance. “Cơm nắm” is cut into slices and served with this sesame or/and ground nut. The sweetness of rice combining with the buttery taste of sesame is so unique that can not be found anywhere in the world.

Being in Vietnam, you are strongly recommended to give you the chance for enjoying “Cơm Việt” with dishes of pork, fish, shrimp and vegetable cooked in oil, as well as vegetables, pickles, etc. Have good appetite!

More info Vietnam food.

Ancient streets of Hanoi

2010-09-24T01:53:00.000-07:00

Source: Vnexpress.net

Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam ( Temple of Literature)

Flag Tower of Hanoi.

See the Statue of Liberty on the top of Tortoise Tower

Dinh Tien Hoang Street.

Port on the Red River.

Road to the Long Bien bridge

Hang Non Street.

Activities in the street

2010-09-24T01:28:00.000-07:00

Source: Vnexpress.net

The burden florist around Hoan Kiem Lake.

A burden coffee of street vendor in Hanoi

Those haircuts.

People to rest next to the To Lich River.

Hanoi youth drinking soft drinks next to Lake Shore.

Hanoi People

2010-09-24T00:42:00.000-07:00

Source: Vnexpress.net

Image of a modern bourgeois family.

A family employees.

Children of a bourgeois family.

Portrait artists. Photo of Pham Duy musician when he was young.

Portrait of young woman, Miss Hanoi.

Vietnam package tour - Soft Eco-Adventures packed into 15 days of fun

2010-09-08T21:01:00.000-07:00

Feature:

Eco Adventure Vietnam is an ideal package for travelers, who are active, adventure lover and wish to experience the diversity and majestic beauty of Vietnam.
This amazing eco-friendly adventure 15 days package tour to explore the enchanting Vietnam with a colorful mix of culture, history and nature. Further more, it also comprises of soft adventure activities for all from the first-time to the experienced travelers.
Day 1 (Wed): Good morning Hanoi

Chao Ban! Welcome to Hanoi, we will meet and take you to your hotel, check-in and today is free at your leisure to rest or explore, have your first impressions of Vietnam. Overnight in Hanoi.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, hotel

Day 2 (Thu): Hanoi city tour, night train to Lao Cai.

Depart at 8:00 am from your hotel by van. We will begin our day by visiting Uncle Ho, learning about his great life at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and his residential place. Next stop is the nearby Temple of Literature. The site of Vietnam´s first University, built in twelfth century, to teach Confucius’s theory to royals. Here we will also have a chance to see a traditional music performance. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Hanoi Pho (noodle soup). In the afternoon, choose one from the numerous museums or temples around Hanoi (Museum of Ethnology, Women´s Museum, History Museum or Quan Thanh Temple). In the late afternoon walk around Hoan Kiem lake and Hanoi´s fascinating Old Quarter for some great fun, shopping, and street side traditional food, maybe to try one “hanoi bia”. This is your chance to be part of typical Hanoian style and its traditional Vietnamese culture. We finish our relaxing but informative day by attending a Water Puppet Show, a favorite experience for all visitors to Vietnam. We can help you to get back to your hotel if you wish, but often our guests would rather just spend the evening enjoying a drink with a view of the city. Dinner on your own.

8:15 pm: Transfer from a prearranged meeting spot to the station for your night train to Sapa boarding at around 9: 15 pm. You will be in shared AC soft sleeper cabins to travel North to Lao Cai town.
(Our tour guide will show you a mini hotel which you will have a shower and basic breakfast before going on Halong bay).

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, lunch, puppet show ticket, 1 local beer, train ticket.

Day 3 (Fri): Hanoi - Lao Cai - Sapa, trek to Ta Phin (~ 14km)

Today’s morning: The train arrives at about 6:00 am; look for the “Footprint Travel” sign when you exit the train station, as our guide will pick you up. Then take a morning drive through the clouds by car / van to Sapa (~ 1.5 hours). When you arrive in Sapa you will be taken to a local restaurant for a morning shower & breakfast.
We will then take short ride from Sapa to our trekking base where we start our trek up and down hills (~ 5- 6 hrs) through terraced rice fields, bamboo ranges and many minority villages. Lunch break before we keep hitting the road to Ta Phin village. Our Dao host family will welcome you to their traditional home where we will share in an ethnic style dinner and stay the night.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, train ticket, entrance fee, all meals, permit, homestay.

Day 4 (Sat): More in Ta Phin and back to Sapa

At the first gleam of daylight, you will see and hear the sounds of morning village life. You can join your host family in some of their activities like feeding the animals, cleaning the houses, gardening or preparing breakfast. After breakfast, we could take a short morning wander around the village or resulting in more time spent with the host family.
You will be then supported by our car / van back to Sapa (30 minutes). When we arrive back in Sapa, check in to the hotel, shower, and pause for lunch on your own. At 2:30 pm we will take an easy walk (~ 5km) to Cat Cat village, homeland of Black H’mong hill tribe and to take part in a traditional ethnic music performance put on by the ethnic minority people. Your own dinner and evening, sleep in the hotel in Sapa.

Note: The music show in Cat Cat is closed on Wed afternoon, an alternative will be arranged.

Inclusion: Breakfast, transfer, guide, entrance fee, music show ticket, hotel.

Day 5 (Sun): Bac Ha market then Lao Cai for night train to Hanoi

Sunday is the common trading day of many tribes in the Northwest of Vietnam, Bac Ha is one of them. The market is filled with colors of different ethnic minorities coming from different villages and their trading activities are so vibrant, lasting from early morning till midday, from the hand-made fabrics to the dogs and buffalos.
We will leave Sapa early by 7:00 am so that we can be there on time, please pay respect to the locals here and ask permission before you taking photo of anyone.
Lunch in Bac Ha on your own account then we will do a boat trip along the Chay river, this boat ride is about 1,5 hour. We will then be picked up for our ride to Lao Cai. Dinner on your own well before the train leaves for Hanoi.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, breakfast, entrance fee, local boat, train ticket.

Day 6 (Mon): Hanoi – Ha Long, welcome on the boat

Arrival in Hanoi in the early morning at round 5:00 am. Please find your way by foot back to a mini hotel near the Tran Quy Cap station gate to have shower and basic set menu breakfast.
Depart, 8:00 – 8: 30 am on a shared van from your hotel to Halong city. After 3.5 hours driving and viewing simple, country side, rice paddy life, we arrive at the at port. At 12.00, the junk crews welcome guests on board at Hon Gai wharf. Check- in, enjoy welcome drink & cruise briefing. Lunch with fresh local seafood while cruising to Bai Tu Long bay via Indochina film studio, Teapot islet, Blockhouse islet, Goat Head islet. Stop for swimming, visit mysterious Thien Canh cave. Relax at a wild beach, swim & kayak (~ 45 mins) to explore the bay. Back to junk to enjoy relaxing or the sunset. Dinner and overnight on board nearby Vong Vieng village or Trinh Nu cave.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrances fees, kayak, boat/junk, breakfast, lunch, dinner, permit, fishing gears.

Day 7 (Tue): Explore the tranquility in Bai Tu Long bay, night train to Hue

Early risers can enjoy the sunrise and the quiet breath-taking beauty of Bay’s landscape. From 7.30 to 8:00 am have breakfast in the fresh air then visit Vong Vieng fishing village by a rustic row-boat. Meet the locals, visit floating school & fish farms. More time to swim in the middle of the bay. From 10: 15, we serve on a La-Carte-Menu, you can order any dishes in the menu whenever you want for breakfast and lunch. Continue cruising through the bay, along the way seeing more of the fascinating formations. 11: 45 check out cabin while cruising back. By noon at 12:00, we will be ashore then hit the road back to Hanoi at around 4: 00 pm.

6:00 pm, we pick up from our office or your hotel for night train to Hue. Boarding at 7: 00 pm. You will be in shared AC soft sleeper cabin (s).

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, boat/junk, breakfast, lunch, train ticket.

Day 8 (Wed): Arrival Hue, city tour of Vietnam last feudal dynasty, boat trip
Arrival Hue at around 10:00 am. Station pick up then transfer to hotel to take a short rest, have late breakfast.
In the afternoon, we will visit the former Imperial Citadel. After that we walk/transfer to the boat dock for our cruising on the Perfume River, viewing the city and the tranquil villages on the riverbank. We will walk up to visit the Thien Mu pagoda, a nicely located pagoda, overlooking the Perfume River and the beautiful scenery beyond, where you get to learn more about the Buddhism in Vietnam. Visit Dong Ba market if time permits. Transfer back to your hotel. Check in hotel. Free time to relax, shower and stay overnight at your hotel.
Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, breakfast, local boat, hotel.

Day 9 (Thu): Hue, easy cycling – transfer to Aluoi, hill tribe homestay
Breakfast at your hotel then we pick you up for cycling to visit Vong Canh hill. Stop to visit Giao Heaven to learn more of Hue culture in worship. Arrive Vong Canh hill - here is the best view for you to have pictures of Perfume River and Pine Trees. Cycling back and continue visiting incense–making village and hat–making village. The last site on your cycling day is Duc Ward where has bronze–casting village. On the road back hotel you can see more the hidden sites of Hue city. Lunch on your own account.
In the afternoon, leave Hue city to A Luoi far (~ 60km from Hue city on 49 National Highway). Along the way you can see the life and daily activities of hill tribes such as Katu, Ta Oi. On arrival A luoi Town, you will visit Ashau village – one of the villages in A Luoi where took place the violent battlefield during Vietnam – America war in 19th century. It is also the place received the dioxin poison which is the biggest one of Vietnam in the war from America Army which its result affect local people until now. Next driver transfers you to A Roang village along Ho Chi Minh trail for more enjoyment of beauties of forest. On arrival A Roang you will spend time for relaxing and enjoying at A Roang Hot Spring. Check in at Aka Chi village to homestay. You can meet minority people to know more of weaving textile… of Ta oi people. Have dinner at stilt-house and enjoy traditional music show is performed by Ta Oi minority people to learn of cultural and daily activities of this ethnic people. Overnight in stilt-house.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, Mt. bike, entrance fee, all meals, traditional music show, permit, homestay

Day 10 (Fri): A luoi to Hoi An

Wake up early morning to enjoy the fresh air in the mountainous. Breakfast will be served at our homestay, check out then we take an easy walk inside the jungle (~ 3 hrs). After that we transfer to Hieu for lunch at a local restaurant then onto Hoi An, overnight here. This is also a very good chance for you to get get nice tailor-made clothes at a reasonable price.
Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, hotel.

Day 11 (Sat): Hoi An - walking tour. Visit Tra Que vegetable village

The center of Vietnam is home to many of World Heritage Sites and Hoian is one of them. Here in this ancient town of Hoi An, 30 km south of Danang, lies on the banks of the Thu Bon River.
Free time in the morning to relax then in the afternoon, we pick you up at your hotel for walking tour around the town to visit the old charming Hoi An. We will visit the old Tan Ky House, the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, and the stylish Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. After that you will make a bicycle trip to countryside of Hoi An for more enjoyment at Tra Que vegetables village – a famous one in Hoi An. Walk around for visiting and knowing more of the way local people plant variety of vegetables. Back to hotel before dark. Free time to relax, take shower after full day tour. Overnight at your hotel.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, hotel.

Day 12 (Sun): Hoi An – Danang, fly to Saigon

Breakfast at the hotel then transfer to the airport in Danang for early morning flight to Saigon. Airport pick up upon arrival them transfer down to visit Cu Chi outdoor museum to learn about the infamous tunnel systems of the Viet Cong. Take this opportunity to get a unique understanding of the guerillas underground fight strategies during the war and crawl through 50 - 100 meters of the 200 km tunnel system. On the way back to Saigon, local rice paper workshops, and views of Vietnam countryside and paddy fields are pleasant sights. Arrival in Saigon, continue our trip to visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, we will drop you off at your hotel around 5:30 pm. Dinner on your own and stay overnight at your hotel.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, breakfast, domestic flight ticket, hotel.

Day 13 (Mon): Saigon – Visit the fertile Mekong delta, easy cycling – Ben Tre

Departing Saigon at 8:00 am from your hotel and heading south of Saigon to Cai Be. Upon arrival, we board on boat for visit the floating market and cruise over the mighty Mekong river (~ 1.5km wide) to Dong Phu island. We start cycling one hour under the green canopy, explore the orchards and daily life of farmers. Lunch break on island. Then we cruise 1.5 hr down Mekong river to Cho Lach canals, cycling to discover the nursery gardens & fruit orchards around. Then we cruise again 1.5 hr to Ben Tre for dinner and stay overnight homestay in farmer house.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, all meals, Mt. bike or Hybrid bike, local boat, hotel.
Day 14 (Tue): Ben Tre – Saigon

Breakfast will be served at local farmer house. Be already for our wonderful cycling to day with the total around 35km from morning until 3.00 pm with many stops and visit.
We start cycling 4hrs back on small trail along the river, see daily life of the locals, feeling lost on winding road under the green coconut canopy. The coconut palms that make Ben Tre famous in Vietnam.
Arrive in Ben Tre at noontime, we cruise down the busy branches of Mekong and into a peaceful canal. Visit an island orchard. Pau for lunch with traditional meal, see the daily life of farmers and try exotic seasonal fruits unique to the region. Hammock siesta, then we cycle to explore this quiet area, call on coconut-candy workshop and other handicraft workshop (if time permits) before coming back to our bus. Transfer back to Saigon. Check in hotel, relax on your own and stay overnight here.

Inclusion: Transfer, guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, Mt. bike or Hybrid bike, local boat, hotel.

Day 15 (Wed): Departure Saigon, Goodbye Vietnam

Breakfast at hotel. Depending on your flight you may have sometime for some more shopping. Then we will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Goodbye and hope to see you again soon!

Inclusion: Transfer, breakfast.

Hoa Lu - Tam Coc- full day

2008-09-23T23:25:00.001-07:00

Hoa Lu, 100 km south of Hanoi, was the capital city of Vietnam under the Dinh Dynasty between AD 968 and AD 980. Some of the sanctuaries and tombs have survived the countless years and can still be visited today. Apart from the historical aspects, the area is also one of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Ha Long Bay. It is true that this area is often referred to as the Ha Long Bay on land. The tour includes being rowed along the Boi River, which makes for a truly unforgettable experience, passing between towering limestone peaks.Price: Joined group tour : Daily - U$ 20/ personIncludes: Transport, boat trip, entrance fee, lunch and guide.ITINERARY:Hoa Lu used to be one of the many old capitals of Vietnam before Thang Long – presently Hanoi – take its historical role. From an exciting town and centre of cultural and military activities of the Dai Co Viet Kingdom in 10th century, the area now is more wellknown for its landscape since almost relics of the urban excitement had been collapsed, except in the Temples of King Dinh and King Le. A trip to Hoa Lu should be started from Tam Coc ("three caves"), which takes more than two hours driving from Hanoi, and visitors may say that distance is not a matter after seating in a boat rowed by one or two local persons in Hoang Long river and see the first limestone mountains, which will run along their riverway for several kilometers. The boat will run, sorry, will be rowed, through three caves on the river, all created by wind and water from a legend time, while the sea had occupied this area. The tide-mark is still on the rock about 2m above the water, and in higher mountainwall the erosion have carved some strange shapes that now filled of green grass, delicious foods of the goats that local people breed everywhere. If you are lucky, sometimes you can see mischievous monkeys. The river trip is wonderful for photo hunters, especially when local people come to harvest the water rice planted along the river, or when they transplant some seedling for the next crops. The tourists often compare the place with Guilin – China, or more closely, to the limestone islets of Halong Bay in the Tonkin Gulf for their similar geological structures and shapes. Thus Tam Coc is also called Halong-Bay-On-Land.From the wharf of Tam Coc you can go further till reaching Bich Dong Pagoda, a combination of three pagodas on the Lower, Middle and Upper levels of a pretty mountain. You will need to climb a little bit till you get to the top of the Upper pagoda and your eyes catch the overall panorama of the paddy fields between Truong Yen mountain. All the pagodas, or lean upon a cliff, or simply have some statues inside a large grotto, deserve the name "Bich Dong" (emerald-like grotto). A scene of the popular French movie "Indochine" had been completed here in 1991, remarking a rush of the French-speaking tourists to Vietnam, who usually do not skip Halong Bay and Tam Coc-Bich Dong where the leading actress Catherine Deneuve left her footprints. On the way back from Tam Coc – Bich Dong to Hanoi you can pay a visit to the last relics of the ancient capital Hoa Lu – the Temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, the two heroes who lived in 10th century and chose Hoa Lu to build the citadel of the capital city. From time to time, archaeologists have excavated buried parts of this citadel with rusty weapons and ceramics. The temples are said to be built on the old foundation of their original palaces in 11-12th centuries and restored in 17th century. Though the temples are not maintained entirely some precious antiques are still preserved well like the whole-stone dragon thrones, wooden bas-relieves and lacquered statues of King Dinh, Kinh Le, Queen Duong Van Nga who in turn got married both of the kings, and the princes of the two dynasties Low Season (5th May - 31st August)Size of Group 1 2 3 4 - 5 6 - 7 8 pax upCost/pax (USD) 180 120 95 80 65 50High Season (1st Sep - 4th May)Size of Group 1 2 3 4 - 5 6 - 7 8 pax upCost/pax (USD) 198 132 105 88 72 55Tour type: PrivateDeparture: Every dayInclusive: Transportation (private car/mini van), Boat, Entrance fees, Speaking guide (English or French), LunchExclusive: Drinks, Insurance, Personal expenses, Tips

Miss Saigon?

2008-09-15T18:00:00.001-07:00

Just arrived in Saigon today. Spent ages at the vietnam border for some reason...they love a bit of red tape...like the french.Phnom Penh was good. I really liked it there. Went on the piss by the river with an English Guy and a German girl. Started at the Foreign Correspndants Club and then movd on to several lower class places.Have a magic 50 dollar note that ended up back in my wallet after i spent it which is fantastic. TYhat means i only spent 2 dollars in 4 doays.....im well up for that magic happening over and over again.anyway, we made our way out of Cambodia today. Met a Northern Irish couple and are now drinking in the backpacker district in Saigon. HAvent tried the local brew yet but the tiger is going down nicely.Hope to spend a month here in Vietnam and really looking forward to it.Cookie monster and sneerky are now officiallyt he dirtiest teddies in asia and are due a big wash.Tried to upload pics yesterday but puters too slow. We'll get it done tomorrow. the giant rat stopped to pose in front of me yesterday but i couldnt get the camera out of my bag fast enough. I think i was starting to consider him my pet so it's as well we've moved on.Anyway, we'll be in touch tomorrow.Til then.bye ybe

Sapa Tours in Vietnam

2008-09-08T17:57:00.001-07:00

Sapa Tours
Sapa Trek & Bac Ha Sunday Market
Sapa Trek with Sunday Market Bac Ha - 3 daysSapa Trek with Sunday Market Bac HaThis 3-day 4-night tour is a wonderful offer from Footprint. Including not only trekking to the hidden villages and staying at their home, but also a visit to one of the most colorful tribal markets in Vietnam. Bac Ha is a rainbow of culture and local trading activities. Different tribes and villages all congregate here only on Sunday to do their business. Please schedule your departure from Hanoi on Thursday night so you too can participate in this renowned market...

Sapa Easy Trek - 3 days
Sapa Easy Trek tour - Vietnam trekkingThis is a perfect combination of trek and culture while visiting the hill tribes’ villages at a pace and style that compliments you. Journey away from the crowds and homestay a traditional Dao home. Learn and participate in village life and truly feel the warmth and hospitality of these incredible people. This is an unforgettable soft adventure to Sapa that should be part of everyone’s time in Vietnam, yet probably only offered by Footprint.
Sapa is a special place with an energy like no other. Take advantage of the secret spots we take you to, and make this an adventure you will never forget. This is the way travel truly should be...

Conquer the top of Mt. Fansipan - 4 days
Fansipan Sapa adventure trek in VietnamSapa is a beautiful former French hill-station. At an altitude of 1,650 m Sapa boasts warm days and cool evenings and all day fresh air. Nowadays, Sapa has become a favorite destination due to its inspiring scenery of mounatin ranges and terraced valley floors dotted with small ethnic villages. Sapa is home to several of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups, each with their own distinctive dress, customs and dialects making it a colorful mosaic of culture.
Sapa is also renowned for its trekking. With South East Asia's highest peak, Mt. Fansipan (3,143 m) providing the perfect backdrop for some great trekking routes. This 3 day trek with outdoor camping offers all of the challenges and rewards of any hike. And, at the summit you be one of the few to have reached up and touched the clouds marking the roof of Indochina...

Sapa Moderate Trek - 4 daysSapa Moderate Trek Tour - trekking in VietnamCombing a mix of adventure and culture in this multi-day trek suites those who have a little extra time, are willing to get a little dirty, and want to explore . We will travel South of Sapa along the inspiring Muong Hoa valley and mountain streams, visiting villages of Hmong, Zay, Dao and Tay ethnic minorities.
Sources: Sapa Tours
http://www.footprintsvietnam.com/Tours/Sapa/

This trek can be difficult at times but is worth the effort as you will be taken off the beaten path, away from the crowds, and into the unspoiled Vietnam. Visit and stay with a Zay and Tay family and learn about village life. We promise that this trip will be unforgettable, educational, rewarding with a healthy dose of fun...

Shopping in Vietnam

2008-09-07T22:41:00.001-07:00

Vietnam has some fantastic shopping opportunities, so it’s well worth setting aside half a day or so to properly peruse. Hotspots include Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, each of which has a temping selection of everything from avant-garde art to sumptuous silk suits.
Some of the best buys are as following:
Vietnamese Art & AntiquesThere are several shops to hunt for art and antiques. Both traditional and modern paintings are a popular item. More sophisticated works are displayed in art galleries, while cheaper mass-produced stuff is touted in souvenir shops and by street vendors. A Vietnamese speciality is the “instant antique”, such as a teapot or ceramic dinner plate, with a price tag of around US$2.
As Vietnam has strict regulations on the export of real antiques, be sure the items are allowed out of the country. Most reputable shops can provide the necessary paperwork.
Vietnamese ClothingVietnam is emerging as a regional design center and there are some extravagant creations in the boutiques of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Ao dai, the national dress for Vietnamese women, is a popular item to take home. Ready-made ao dai costs from US$ 10 to US$20, but custom numbers can cost a lot more. There are ao dai tailors nationwide, but those in the tourists centers are more familiar with foreigners.
Hill-tribe gear is winding its way to shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It’s brightly patterned stuff, but you may need to set the dyes yourself so those colours don’t bleed all over the rest of your clothes.
T-shirts are ever popular items with travellers, cost from US$1 to US$4.
Non (conical hats) are favorite items for women in both rainy and sunny times. The best quality ones can be found in the Hue’s area.
Vietnamese HandicraftsHot items on the tourist market include lacquerware, boxes and wooden screens with mother-of-pearl inlay, ceramics, colourful embroidery, silk greeting cards, wood-block prints, oil paintings, watercolours, blinds made of hanging bamboo beads, reed mats, carpets, jewellery and leatherwork.
War SouvenirsIt’s easy to by what looks like equipment left over from the American War, but almost all of these items are reproductions and your chances of finding anything original are slim. The fake Zippo lighters engraved with platoon philosophy are still one of the hottest-selling items.
TIP: BargainingBargaining should be good-natured, smile and don’t get angry or argue. Once the money is accepted, the deal is done. Remember that in Asia, “saving face” is very important. In some cases you will be able to get a 50% discount or more, at other times this may only be 10%.

Leaving Vietnam

2008-09-05T18:02:00.001-07:00

My last week in Hue was a mixture of excitement to be going home and sadness that I was leaving everyone that I have met there. Especially the kids. I found it really upsetting. I had to say goodbye to my TX class and i knew that I would be upset but I hadnt expected such a reaction from them. The little girl Hien who had been quiet and distant in the beginning had gradually warmed to me. It was her 13th birthday (i think) while i was there and i threw a party for her. she hadnt had a party before. i got them all gifts, not just her, so they didnt feel left out and we had a great time. when i say i think she was thirteen it is because in vietnam when you are born sometimes you are 1. other times you are 0. its completely mental. she looks about ten. but she thinks she is 13. anyway, we had a great last lesson. when it cam time to say goodbye they were all really sweet and seemed sad that i was leaving. they gave me the prize red chilli that thye had grown in their vegatable garden. it doesnt sound much but it was a big deal as they treated this thing like a pet and carried it around everywhere and stuff. i think it was the best thing that had ever come out of their garden. i really liked the older ones who i felt i had got to know quite well because they were able to communicate better in english. it must be hard for them to have someone come into their life, just start to get to know them and then it is time to leave again and for the whole process to start again. hien was the only girl in the class and by the end was quite taken with me in the way that i used to be with older girls at school. she made me bracelets and tried to write my name n the board for me arriving and drew me pictures in her spare time. i miss them already. for the last lesson i taught them how to write letters and bought them envelopes and stamps. hopefully they will find a way of posting them.
so then i left Hue.... although my ridiculous amount of excess baggage proved to be no problem...the actual journey to the airport was. the bus from hue to da nang that i had to get was super late and they had over sold tickets which caused a big fuss. poor vietnamese people doing the journey had to give up their seats for the westerners. although totally unfair, i was kind of relieved as someone would have had to physically remove me from the bus before i would have given up mine...even though i was sitting beside an incredibly smelly man!!! he was vile.
once we eventually got going, half an hour late, we still stopped for a frigging 35min break at the cafe down the road that the bus company has a deal with.(it is only meant to be a 2 hour journey). but if they bring the bus to the restaurant they get a cut of what we spend, and the opportunity to make some more cash whether we were late or not meant we were stopping! all of this is done in the open, they dont even try to hide the fact that they are doing it because they get a cut. the vietnamese arent ashamed of living in tin huts and sleeping on rags. there is no shame in being poor. nor is there any shame in their desperately trying to milk every western tourist for all they can get! i have been ripped off right in front of my eyes every day for a month. its mildly irritating. but it seems to be the vietnamese way. and i guess i can afford it.
anyway, by this point i was seriously agitated and freaked out that i would miss my plane. got off the bus and eventually got a taxi... why is it when u dont want one they stalk you by crawling along the curb beside you and when u do want one they are playing hard to get! anyway, got to the airport (more of an aircraft hanger really) at 5.40 (for 6.30 flight) although, as usual, there was no sense of urgency and it seemed i had been panicking for nothing. the flight was good. even aeroplanes seem luxurious to me now....table service...clean cutlery...chilled white wine...even a blanket! i think i must have been overtired as i got really sad on the plane. just thinking about the kids. and how the trip was over. and the general tragedy of vietnam. it seems so unfair that i can just fly in and out of their life and they are stuck there. the babies will be adopted but for the older kids they have no choice but to stay in that orphanage untill they are 18. then if they do well they will have a shop and scrape by. its a continuous struggle. no one wants the kids over 4. and kids that have any surviving relatives often cant be adopted. only the ones who have nobody. at TX last week some of the kids who did have distant relatives got to visit them for a couple of days. 4 of my kids stayed behind. they dont even have a cousin to go see. and when i asked them how they felt when the others go home they said 'even more lonely than usual'. the people across the aisle must have though i was mad as i sobbed my way to singapore.
as soon as i arrived i felt almost awkward at how stark and clean everything and everyone was. came to the hotel, checked in my room and immediately ran a bath to soak off all the grime and dirt i feel like i have picked up. i swear to god i think this tan is probably half dirt! sickened myself by eating too much breakfast out of sheer greed and went to the city to explore. it was the weirdest sensation to be walking around a city, bustling with people and taxis and shops....gucci...prada...louis vuitton. its surreal that two hours away my kids are sleeping on mats. i dont mean for one second that it wasnt great to be there, in fact from first impressions i think singapore is absolutely amazing, its just bizzare to get your head round.
i had better go as someone needs to use this computer but one quickother thing that is quite funny. last weekend in vietnam heather and i went to hanoi and toured ha long bay. it was brilliant. we stayed in a proper hotel in the city and turned out that jamaica were playing vietnam at football in the stadium round the corner. the players were staying in our hotel and we got chatting. they were really nice and offered to give heather and i tickets to the game. we couldnt go as we had to head home but it was nice to meet them. anyway, now i am in singapore and in my hotel is the oman team who are playing indonesia. i had to move rooms...it turns out to their floor, and this morning at breakfast they invited me to a lunch and to go and watch them play tomorrow night. isnt that weird that i meet two football teams in a week. do you have any idea how many girls in glasgow would love this!!!!!

Travel Information of Vietnam

2008-09-02T22:54:00.001-07:00

1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Vietnam borders with China in the north, Laos and Kampuchea in the West, and the Pacific Ocean in the east. Its lies in the centre of South-East Asia. Vietnam's territory stretches from Lung Cu village (Ha Tuyen province) in the north to Rach Tau hamlet (Minh Hai province) in the south. It is a S-shaped pennisula, with thousands of off-shore islands and archipelagoes; the biggest of which are the Hoang SA (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly) Archipelagoes. Vietnam's mainland covers 331,689 square kilometres .
According to archaeological discoveries made at Do Mountain, it is believed that life in Vietnam began as far back as 300,000 years ago. Officially, the history of Vietnam stretches back 4,000 years when it was founded by the Hung Kings. It was then named Van Lang.
When speaking upon the history of Vietnam, it is important to note the large role played by the French in Vietnam. It began in 1858, when the French took over Danang in southern Vietnam. Over time, more and more territory was won over by the French. It wasn't until 1954, when the French surrendered to to the Viet Minh, ending the French Indochina War, that the French colonial control in Vietnam ended.
The immediate image in the minds of most people at the mention of Vietnam is that of the war fought against the United States some twenty years ago. Most people think of the country only in terms of the American conflict in Indochina. The war ended nearly twenty years ago, and today, despite lingering signs of past American involvement, the situation in Vietnam is markedly different. People have finally begun to look at the country from another perspective, now that travelers and tourists from the West are being welcomed into what was once a forbidden country. It may take a bit more effort and tenacity to plan an excursion into Vietnam than it would for another Southeast Asian country, but Vietnam has much to offer in terms of culture and sights.
Top
2. WEATHER CONDITIONS
The weather in the southern part of Vietnam is tropical. It is monsoonal in the north, bringing a hot, rainy season from mid-May to mid-September and a warm, dry season from mid-October to mid-March. Occasional typhoons from May to January bring extensive flooding to the middle regions of Vietnam.
Top3. PEOPLE AND CULTURE
The vast majority of the population is Vietnamese with minute percentages of Chinese. The Viet culture originated on the delta of the Red River and the Ma River where the Viet people cultivated paddy fields. They led a simple farming life in small villages, usually living around a communal house. Today the people living in the countryside follow this lifestyle. The Viet people are influenced by Confucianism, in particular the principle of respect for their elders.
In spite of the immense suffering of the Vietnamese and the somewhat ruined state of the country, they are generally warm and friendly, and surprisingly, the Vietnamese bear little if any resentment or bitterness toward Americans. Children in the streets will commonly greet visitors with the name Lien Xo, which means Russian, but they will easily be corrected if you respond, "Hello!" or "Good morning" and explain you are an American, European or Australian, etc.
Ethnic Groups: The country is predominantly 85-90% Vietnamese, 3% Chinese, ethnic minorities include Muong, Thai, Meo, Khmer, Man, Cham, and other mountain tribes.
Languages: Vietnamese is the official language; French, Chinese, English, Khmer and tribal dialects (Mon-Khmer and Malayo-Polynesian) are also spoken.
Religion: Buddhist, Confucian, Taoist, Roman Catholic, indigenous beliefs, Islamic and Protestant.
Top4. LOCAL CUSTOMS
Be firm, yet diplomatic when dealing with officials who will often be very rigid. In the case of misunderstanding, patience is the best policy.
Small gifts such as cigarette lighters, pens, foreign cigarettes, liquor, perfume and even shampoo are greatly appreciated by anyone you wish to make friends with in Vietnam.
Out of politeness, always ask permission before taking photos of people. The same rule of thumb also applies to photos taken in places of worship. Permission will almost always be granted.
A gentle handshake is the most appropriate manner of greeting.
Be very discrete about giving anything to beggars frequently encountered in Ho Chi Minh City. If anyone is seen giving handouts to a beggar, he or she may end up being pursued by a mob of other beggars. This does not help create a good image for foreigners; it gives them instead the reputation of being easy to hit up for money.
Beware of pickpockets. Keep your ID and passport in a safe place and carry only photocopies of those items.
Remove your shoes before entering Buddhist pagodas. Small donations placed in the boxes found in temples are appreciated. It is acceptable to keep your shoes on within Chinese pagodas.
Never let the soles of your feet face other people or any sacred monument, such as a statue of Buddha.
Top5. CURRENCY
The Dong (D) is the official currency in Vietnam. Exchange rate is approximatley 1 USD = 15,000 Dong (Sep 01)
Bank notes currently in circulation are in denominations of 100 / 200 / 500 / 1,000 / 2,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 20,000 and 50,000 Dong
Notes under 200 Dong have little value and are rarely used.
The U.S. dollar is more or less a second currency in Vietnam. Other foreign currencies are not readily accepted. A large supply of US$1, US$5 and US$10 are almost essential for tipping, for small expenses and for hotel bills. U.S. money is so common that change will frequently be given in dollars.
You may bring in an unlimited amount of foreign currency as long as it is declared on the forms provided by customs officers. Foreign currency can be exchanged for dong at your hotel or at the State Bank of Vietnam.
Top6. THINGS TO KNOW
Population: About 78 Million People Capital: Hanoi Flag: The flag of Vietman is red with a large yellow five-pointed star in the center. Shop Hours: Shops run from 7 or 8am to 11 or 11:30pm. Some are open from 1 or 2pm to 4 or 5pm. Bank Hours: Most banks are opened from 7am or 8am to 11am or 11:30am Some are open from 1pm or 2pm to 4pm or 5pm. Holidays January 1 Solar New Year's Day January/February Tet (Tet Nguyen Dan). The most important Vietnamese annual festival. This marks the new lunar year and the advent of spring. This is a three-day holiday, usually at the end of January or the beginning of February (according to the solar calendar) February 3 Anniversary of the Foundation of the Communist Party of Vietnam April 30 Liberation Day, the day on which Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) fell to Hanoi in 1975. This holiday is commemorated nationwide. May 1 Labour Day May 19 Birthday of President Ho Chi Minh September 2 National Day of Vietnam
Time: +7:00, Vietnam is 11 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and 14 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time.
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but it is enormously appreciated. A 5-10% tip for a meal is a very small amount of money, but to the average Vietnamese, it could easily equal a day's wages. Avoid tipping too much, as it will set a precedent for others.
Restaurants: Government-run restaurants catering to tourists add a 10% service charge to the bill.
Porters: Porters, if they are available, can be tipped with American coins.
Hotel maids: Government-run hotels catering to tourists charge an automatic 10% service fee.
Taxis: Generous tips are not necessary. A small gratuity, however, is expected by cab drivers.
Top7. VISAS AND PASSPORT
Passports and visas are required for entry into Vietnam. The best place to obtain a visa for Vietnam is Bangkok. The visa will specify where you will be arriving and where you will be leaving, in addition to how long you can stay.
Formerly, tours had to be booked to obtain a visa, but this is no longer the situation. Potential visitors to Vietnam must fill out three applications for entry and exit visas, accompanied by three passport photos 4cm x 6cm. One of the applications must be sent to the most convenient diplomatic or consular mission of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The other two applications/photos are carried with you and handed in at the first point of entry.
If you require Asia Travel to assist you in the application, please send an email with the following information to:asiatrav@asiatravel.com:
Surname and first name Date and place of birth Nationality Present place of residence Profession Time and point of entry and exit
Some Embassies of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam:
Australia 6 Timbarra Crescent O'Malley ACT 2603 Tel (062) 866059
France 62, rue Boileau 75016 Paris Tel 4524-5063 or 4527-6255
Mexico Sierra Ventana 255 11000 Mexico, DF Tel 540-1612
Thailand 83/1 Wireless Road Bankok Tel (02) 251-7201
United Kingdom 12-14 Victoria Road London W8 5RD Tel 937-1912
Top8. CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Duty-Free Items Visitors may import 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, 1 liter of wine, 1 liter of liquor and an unlimited amount of film. Commercial goods and items of high value being taken out of Vietnam require export permits from the Customs Service. Antiques may be confiscated permanently. No local currency may be taken out of the country.
The Customs Service Headquarters 21 Ton Duc Thang St. Ho Chi Minh City Tel 90095
Top9. TRAVEL TO THE COUNTRY
Airports Noi Bai International Airport Hanoi Tan Son Nhat Airport Ho Chi Minh City Fares are significantly lower for those flying to Ho Chi Minh City. Although flights are available from the capitals of most Southeast Asian countries as well as from Sydney and Melbourne, the best place is from Bangkok as visas are easiest to obtain there.
Airlines Vietnam Airlines (International) 116-118 Nguyen Hue Blvd. Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 292118 Vietnam Airlines (Domestic) 27b Nguyen Dinh Chieu St. Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 299980 Air France Dong Khoi and Le Loi St. (Caravelle Hotel) Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 241278 Aeroflot 4H Le Loi St. Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 93489 Thai Airways 116 Nguyen Hue Blvd. Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 292118 Philippine Airlines Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 292200 MAS 116 Nguyen Hue Blvd. Ho Chi Minh City Tel (08) 30695
Trains There are currently no train lines running between Vietnam and its neighboring countries.
Buses Traveling by road from Cambodia is a slow and expensive alternative to flying. It is highly advisable that travelers fly in instead.
Ships and Ferries There are no official passenger services. Travelers may be able to ride on a cargo ship to Ho Chi Minh City, Danang or Haiphong from Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, Singapore and France. Check with the local shipping and travel agencies for rates and availability. A ferry service runs from Cambodia to Chau Doc in the Mekong Delta.
Top10. TRAVEL WITHIN THE COUNTRY
Cars Car rentals are currently not in existence. Cabs, which are unmarked cars without meters, can typically be rented for the day for US$30 to US$40. Trains The Vietnamese railway system runs from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi along the coast and links with Haiphong and the regions further north. Odd-numbered trains travel South, and even-numbered trains travel north. The fastest trains take at least 36 hours from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Reservations should be made a day or more in advance. The major setback to the railways is that tourists are charged many times more than Vietnamese people in the form of an outrageously high surcharge. For long distance traveling, it is best to fly. Buses The bus system runs almost everywhere within the country, with stations built around the country dividing the territory into regions. Buses tend to be slow and unreliable.
Top11. SIGHTSEEING
Ho Chi Minh City This is the largest city in Vietnam. It is the industrial, commercial and cultural center of the country. The central city area is still called Saigon.
WAR CRIME MUSEUM This museum exhibit crimes committed by the Americans during the war. Photographs of the famous My Lai massacre, human embryos, genetically deformed babies and innocent civilians being tortured can be seen on display. An array of US armored vehicles, artillery pieces, bombs and infantry weapons are displayed in the courtyard. You can also see a guillotine used by the French to de itate troublemakers in the riots of the 1920s and a model of the famous tiger cages used by the South Vietnamese to house VC prisoners on Con Son island. The War Crime Museum basically reveals a different side of the stories about wars - the innocent victims of modern warfare. HISTORICAL MUSEUM Built in 1929 by the Societe des Etudes Indochinioses, it was formerly named Blanchard dels Brosse. A big statute of President HoChiMinh stands in the main lounge of the museum. The museum has an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the primitive age, bronze age, the Tran dynasty and the Le Dynasty. Take a look at the array of musical instrument especially the special monocord of the one string musical instruments. There are many valuable relics taken from Cambodia's Angkor Wat. REUNIFICATION PALACE In 1868, the Norodom Palace (original name) was built for the French Governor-General of Indochina. A striking modern architecture was built when the original buildings were damaged by bombs. Rebuilt in 1962, it comprises of a ground floor, 3 main floors, two mezzanines and a terrace for helicopter landing. The palace includes many tastefully decorated rooms such as the reception room, the cabinet reference room, the study rooms, the credentials presentation room and the banquet room. It also has a basement with a network of tunnels connecting to the telecom centre and war room and one of the longest tunnels which stretch all the way to the Revolutionary Museum. The grounds outside contain one of the first tanks to burst through the gates of the palace to signify the end of the Vietnam War as well as the fighter plane which dropped further bombs towards the end of the war. Independence Palace was renamed the Unification Palace to denote the spirit and strong will for national independence and reunification Ben Thanh Market The Ben Thanh Market, formerly the main railway terminal, is the largest of the markets scattered throughout the city. A wide variety of goods are available, from imported electronics to imported perfumes. Notre Dame Cathedral This Catholic church was constructed in 1883 and is located near the Tu Do (Dong Khoi) Street, the former red-light district. Presidential Palace This building is now called the Reunification Hall. The center was built as a modern administration center and is where the war and the American involvement in Vietnam ended in April 1975, with tanks invading the compound. Guided tours will take visitors through the various rooms within the complex. Cholon Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown. Sights include the Binh Tay Market, the An Quang Pagoda (District 5) and the scenic Thien Hau Temple. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda A modern Japanese-style Buddhist temple, easily one of the largest and most impressive in Ho Chi Minh City.
Tay Ninh
Cu Chi Tunnels An extensive network of nearly 200 miles (322mi) of Viet Cong tunnels used in the French Indochina war and American war. The tunnels have complete facilities, from kitchens to printing presses and even street signs, all of which were used to aid the NLF (National Liberation Front) military. Tours involve a description of the tunnels, after which tourists are allowed to crawl about the maze. Located in Tay Ninh (suburb of Ho Chi Minh City), 24 miles (39km) northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City. CAO DAI TEMPLE Cao Daism seeks to create the ultimate religion by fusing Buddhist, Taoist, Confucianist and Catholic beliefs into a synthesis of its own. Witness the solemn ceremony of the unique religion - Caodaism at Caodai Holly See at its noon tide prayer service with followers dressed in red, blue, yellow and white robes. There is the divine eye above the altar, the religion's official symbol. The temple has nine levels which signify the nine steps to heaven, each level marked by a pair of multicoloured dragons.
MEKONG DELTA One of the world's largest delta, the Delta Region is formed by the various tributaries of the mighty Mekong River which begins its journey to the sea in Tibet and winds its way for 4500 km through China, Burma, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Southern Vietnam. The vietnamese name for the Mekong is Cuu Long which means "nine dragons" and this is represented by the nine exit points of the Mekong River as it flows into the sea. The land of the Mekong Delta is renowned for its richness. Known as Vietnam's breadbasket, it produces enough rice to feed the entire country with a sizeable surplus leftover. Take a sampan ride that meanders through small villages and experience the simple lives of the Mekong people
Vung Tau Beach Located at the mouth of the Saigon River is the popular Vung Tau beach resort. Pineapple Beach is probably the most pleasant, with its villas and generally tranquil atmosphere. The temples are a definite must-see. The Niet Ban Tinh Xa is the largest temple in Vietnam. Tourist accommodations are available at the Hoa Binh Hotel, as well as the Thang Loi, Thang Thai and Tho Nguyet.
Nha Trang The central region near Nha Trang features some of the most beautiful beaches in Asia. The ocean waters are transparent, and the sands immaculate, attracting more and more visitors in recent times. Tours cover the Cham Ponagar complex, the north tower of which was built in 817 A.D. Ruins of the long-deceased Champa still stand as a testament to this once prominent kingdom.
Dalat The mountain resort among the Central Highlands has scenic surroundings as well as remnants of the French colonial era. The Ethnic Minority Museum is certainly worth visiting for those interested in the costumes, gongs, ornaments and other artifacts collected by locals from the Lam Dong province. As another point of interest, there is even an old abandoned nuclear power plant.
Danang City Known as Tourane under the French, Danang is a seaport of endless stretches of unspoiled sandy beach midway between Ha Noi to the north and Ho Chi Minh City to the South. The city was also the center of civilization of the Champa Kingdom, a kingdom which flourished In the area as early as the 2nd century A.D. Appealing stone sculptures (from the 4th-14th centuries) of Vishnu , Shiva and other Gods of this Kingdom can still be found in the Cham museum located in the center of the city Towards the coast south of Danang are five large hills known as the Marble Mountain. Mysterious caves within the mountains shelter altars delicated to Buddha, Bodhisattvas and The different genies arising from the popular beliefs of the area's inhabitants. With its own international and domestic airport, Danang provides an ideal stopover based for excursions to the ancient town of Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue and My Son-site of the Ruins from the Cham civilization.
Cham Ruins For those interested in seeing all that these fifteen towers have to offer, plan on spending a minimum of one day. These towers are located at My Son in the Duy Xuyen district. Cham Museum The Cham Museum built in 1915, expanded in 1935 , completed in 1936, is in a lovely setting And has large, open well lighted rooms with around 296 statues and artifacts of the Cham People dated back to the 7th century. Marble Mountains Consisting of five limestone peaks, about five (8km) miles south of town. They can be explored by following the paths leading to the peaks. Non Nuoc Beach China Beach, one the most wonderful beaches of Vietnam , was once an in country rest and Recreation centre for the US military during the Vietnam War.
Hoi An Ancient Town Forty-five minutes by land south-east of Da Nang is the ancient town of Hoi An, which was one of the most important trading ports in Southeast Asia for merchants from China, Japan and afar for a couple of centuries ago. Originally a seaport in the Champa Kingdom, by the 15th century It had become a coastal town under the Tran dynasty. Also served as the hub of East-West c ultural exchange, Hoi An's ancient past is superbly preserved in its fascinating temples, pagoda, shop houses and home which make up the town's old quarter. Walking in the streets of this ancient town, one can observe the influence of the architecture, Sculpture and decorative styles of China and Japan and the skill of former Vietnamese architects Who have absorbed their influences and created something similar yet somehow uniquely different.
HUE Hue, the imperial city, the citadel-city of Phu Xuan was originally built up during the end of 17th Century and became a political capital as well as the Imperial City of Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 till 2nd September 1945 when the Communist Party, leaded by President Ho Chi Minh had declared the Independent of the Nation and took over the power from the defeated Japanese Governor. Nowadays, this small & poetical city of 280.000 habitants becomes one of the main tourism site of Vietnam destination by its splendid tombs of the Nguyen emperors, several notable pagodas especially the Thien Mu Pagoda, the remains of Citadel as well as the romantic Perfume River where a cruise tour with Hue music performance in the moonlight was always provided since long time ago. Normally, visiting Hue within a day is a bit rush but still enough time to cover the main attractive sites such as The Citadel, The museum of antique, the tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc emperors and a 02 hours cruise with stop over at Thien Mu pagoda.
Citadel & Forbidden City This forbidden city of 10km. perimeter has 4 main entrance gates and well defended by kilometers of rampart was built in 1804 by the first emperor Nguyen Anh on a site chosen by geomancers and look likes a Chinese forbidden city in Beijin. Some parts of this forbidden city were totally destroyed during the war where now are under reconstruction providing UNESCO & Japanese non-government associations' fund. Lucky thing is most of the main area such as the citadel (the Imperial Enclosure), Flag Tower were remain intact where received hundred of visitors daily. The Museum of Antique (Imperial museum) This beautiful hall which house the Imperial Museum was built in 1845. The most precious artefacts were lost during the war (1954-1973) and the liberation day (1975) but ceramics, furniture and royal relics are remain until the present time. Khai Dinh Emperor's Tomb This is the final monument of the Nguyen Dynasty. The complex features ceiling murals, frescoes and a dragon staircase. Located on the slopes of the Chau E Mountain, six miles (10km) south of town. It takes almost 10 years (1920-1931) to finish this grandiose concrete tomb which is completely unlike the others tombs where there was a mixture of typical Vietnamese & French colonial architecture. After climbing 36 steps passing by rows of elephants, horses, civil & military mandarin you will be reached the main building where a full original artefacts are displayed to the public. Tu Duc Emperor's Tomb The most impressive of the tombs and pagodas at Hue. Located at the tributaries of the Perfume River, seven miles (11km) south of Hue, this complex has beautiful architecture, intricate decor and military statues. This majestic and serene tomb with lake view, grove of pines, temples, living house area is the most expensive tomb which was completely terminated after 5 years by thousands of labor-worker (1863-1868) for this intellectual-poet emperor. Minh Mang Emperor's Tomb The most impressive of the tombs and pagodas at Hue. Located at the tributaries of the Perfume River, seven miles (11km) south of Hue, this complex has beautiful architecture, intricate decor and military statues. Thien Mu Pagoda & Perfume River Cruise Unlike the typical boat used to provide in the past the present Hue cruise is providing a motorized boat which carry a 2 hours cruise along Perfume River including a 30 min stop over Thien Mu pagoda. This pagoda located on the hillock overlooking the Perfume River, built in 1844 by Thieu Tri emperor, 21m-high octagonal tower with seven-storey is one of the most famous structures in all over the country and become an unofficial symbol of Hue until now.
Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda Built in the 11th century, this pagoda sits on a stone pillar in the middle of a pond. This is one of the more unusual structures in Vietnam. Lenin Park (Thong Nhat Park) Built over a former marsh, this park surrounds a large lake containing a statue of Lenin, often the object of jokes among the locals. The park itself is quite beautiful. Tran Nhan Tong Street. National Preserve of Cuc Phuong This national park is one of the last tropical primeval forest reserves on Earth. There are 64 species of fauna and thousands of species of flora, many of which are extinct everywhere else in the world. Bizarre and fascinating species of animals from flying lizards to monkeys dwell within the park's 61,000 acres. Caves and grottoes, where various artifacts have been discovered, are located in the mountains within. Ha Nam Ninh Province. It is located approximately 62 miles (100 Km.) southwest of Hanoi. Thu Le Park Located northwest of Hanoi in the Thu Le village.
Haiphong
Cat Ba This island is the largest in the Cat Ba archipelago. It is potentially one of the major beach destinations in Southeast Asia. This region has beautiful beaches and pristine waters. Within the mountains are caves and grottos. Located 36 miles (58km) east of Haiphong.
Halong Bay One of Vietnam's most beautiful areas, Halong Bay has fascinating limestone formations, coves for nighttime excursions, sheer cliffs, grottoes, arches and scores of small islets.
Top12. DINING AND DRINKING
Vietnamese food varies from region to region. Almost 500 traditional dishes have been recorded! Rice and noodles are staple foods, served with nearly all meals. The most popular dishes are nema rán (spring rolls), bún thang (noodles with sliced pork, eggs, shredded chicken and shrimp), shellfish steamed with ginger and sea crabs fried with salt. Among common ingredients used are: shark fin, duck, pork paste, fish, spices, fruits, vegetables, crab meat, lobster and oysters.
Imported beer is available in Vietnam, although a number of domestic beers are brewed. Rice wine is very popular, and there are many brands available. There is a variety of fruit wines such as apricot, orange or lemon. Soft drinks are processed from the many varieties of tropical fruits available. Water from the tap should be avoided, even though it has already been filtered and sterilized at 10ºC. If you must drink it, boil the water first.
Top13. ENTERTAINMENT
Vietnam is not the place to go for the latest in nightspots, but a number of large hotels have nightclubs and dance halls. Bars are fairly easy to find, even in smaller hotels. Try asking the locals for the current popular spots.
Top14. EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police: 03 Ho Chi Minh City Police Station 161 Nguyen Du, Quan 1 Tel 99398 or 97107 Open from 8am-11am and 1pm-4pm Hanoi Police Office for the Registration of Foreign Visitors 63 Tran Hung Dao, Hanoi All visitors must register with the police within 48 hours of arrival. If you are on a tour, this should have been taken care of (but check anyway). Fire Department: 08 First Aid: 05 International Dialing Access: Available at major tourist hotels and post offices Country Code: 84 City Codes: Hanoi: 04 / Ho Chi Minh: 08 When calling from within the same city, delete the city code from the number. When calling to another city from within Vietnam, use the entire city code. When calling from outside Vietnam, delete the first digit (0) from the city code.
Top16. USEFUL PHRASES
* Greetings - Chao ong (ba) * How are you? - Ong (ba) co khoe khong? * Fine, thanks - Cam on rat tot * My name is ... - Tên tôi là ... * I don't understand - Tôi không hiêú * Restaruant - nhà hàng * Telephone - diên thoai * Hotel - khách san

TOur to SOUTH VIETNAM

2008-08-26T22:55:00.001-07:00

SaiGon - VinhLong - CanTho - SaiGon - DaLatPhanthiet - SaiGon Day 1. Arrival in SaigonCity tour visit to fine examples of French colonial architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Saigon Post Office. In the afternoon, visit Thien Hau pagoda, Cho Lon, lacquer ware factory. Overnight in Saigon. Day 2. Saigon – Vinh Long – Can ThoTransfer to Vinh Long, full day trip to the watery world of the Mekong Delta. Take a boat trip along narrow waterways overhung with dense vegetation and try exotic fruits in one of the many orchards. Enjoy the landscape of the Mekong delta where we take a boat to visit Cai Be floating market. Lunch with local delicacy in the bonsai garden. Procede to Can Tho. Overnight in Can Tho. Day 3. Can Tho – SaigonMake an excursion to visit the biggest market in the Mekong Delta - Cai Rang floating market. Back to Saigon. Overnight in Saigon. Day 4. Saigon – Da LatLeave Saigon for a scenic drive through rubber and tea plantations en route to the cooler climes of Da Lat, 300km from saigon. Established as a hill station, Da Lat is reminiscent of an alpine town with its French chalets and pine forests. Visit of Prenn waterfall on the way, Hang Nga tree house, and the centre market. Overnight in Da Lat. Day 5. Da LatA free day to enjoy golf amongst the pines at the Da Lat Palace Golf Club. A masterpiece of design, the 72 Da Lat Palace course offers an enjoyable challenge for players of all levels and a through test for experienced players. Overnight in Da Lat Day 6. Da Lat – Phan ThietLeave Da Lat for the 250km drive from the hill down to Phan Thiet beach on the coastal plain via the scenic Marvellous Mountain Pass. Enjoy the time at the beach. Overnight in Phan Thiet. Day 7. Phan ThietA free day to enjoy the beach and playing golf at the Nick Faldo-designed Ocean Dunes Golf Club. A links course, Ocean Dunes is rated as Vietnam’ s second best course after the Da Lat course. Overnight in Phan Thiet. Day 8. Phan Thiet – Saigon - DepartureReturn to Saigon and transfer directly to the airport for departure flight.

Food

2008-08-20T23:03:00.001-07:00

My stunach and head have been sensitive ever since we arived. This, coupled with Vietnamese hospitality and cuisine, has been tricky at times. Guests are very important, especially strange visiting family from America, and they will prepare all kinds of food and keep filling your bowl whenever its aproching empty. thus, I have discovered a traveling trick for all of you small or sensitive stumachs out there...never let your bowl go empty, eat slowly, and "No Roy" means 'I'm full"!Most of Vietnamese food I really enjoy; noodle bowls, soups, rice and spring rolls. However, they eat many parts of animals that, as my father puts it, I never knew existed! Ah, such as large shunks of fat, sinues, intestans, toung and bone. Also, they consume large amounts of soda and candy. this whole comming month, traveling with Thay (Tick Naht Hanh)and the sangha, we'll be eating vegitarian...and I think I may continue the trend.

Vietnam Travel Information

2008-08-14T22:57:00.001-07:00

Vietnam Information Most visitors to Vietnam are overwhelmed by the sublime beauty of the country's natural setting: the Red River Delta in the north, the Mekong Delta in the south and almost the entire coastal strip are a patchwork of brilliant green rice paddies tended by women in conical hats.There are some divine beaches along the coast, while inland there are soaring mountains, some of which are cloaked by dense, misty forests. Vietnam also offers an opportunity to see a country of traditional charm and rare beauty rapidly opening up to the outside world.href=http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/vietnam/
Vietnam Travel Vietnam ToursAs a local tour operator, Footprint can take you on a custom-made tour to destinations throughout Vietnam. From small group tours of historical Vietnam; to eco-adventures in Halong Bay; to cultural community-based tourism products in Ha Giang.We have been a Vietnam ambassador to thousands of travelers Worldwide, we pride ourselves as being your guide to experiencing the real Vietnam at your own pace and stylehttp://www.footprintsvietnam.com
Tong cuc Du lich Viet Nam - Vietnam National Administration of TourismOfficial Website of Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, includes information about Vietnam people and country and tourism.www.vietnamtourism.com
Wikipedia VietnamVietnam was under Chinese control for a thousand years before becoming a nation-state in the 10th century. Successive dynasties flourished along with.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Directory

2008-08-14T17:48:00.001-07:00

Vietnam travel directory, provides you Vietnam travel links, hotels Directory, directory listings, add travel url,Vietnam Travel index, Vietnam Travel agents, Vietnam Tour operators ... Vietnam Hotel Guide, Vietnam Hotel Directory, Vietnam Hotel BookingVietnam Hotel
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Until Next Time Vietnam...

2008-07-24T21:27:00.001-07:00

The cycling part of my last journal entry finished on somewhat of a sour note due to the fact that I had ingested more mountain dirt than food over the previous three days. However, I said that I would look forward to better days and fortunately they arrived sooner rather than later.When I hit the road again, the sensation of the super smooth surface beneath my wheels felt so unfamiliar that I thought that something was wrong with the King Brown. The sight of three lanes in each direction plus a shoulder wide enough to be another lane was equally unfamiliar, so much so that I thought that I must still be fast asleep and dreaming in my hotel bed. However, as per usual, the King Brown was running to perfection and I was well and truly awake with a feeling akin to that which a baseballer gets when he warms up with three bats and then goes out to bat with one; my legs felt lighter and the road passed beneath me with ease. Cycling had become enjoyable again.After a few days of these much improved conditions, I rolled into Mai Chau on the back of a 20km downhill. A town much like any other in rural Vietnam, Mai Chau sees its fair share of visitors due to the fact that the local White Thai tribes have opened their homes up to tourists as guesthouses. I found myself in a beautiful wooden and bamboo home complete with a balcony overlooking the vast rice fields in the valley below where local villagers toiled beneath the huge mountains towering above. The accommodation was authentic, meaning basic. My bed consisted of a mat on the floor of a large communal bamboo-floored room, but it came with all the creature comforts one needs including electricity and cold beer. In any case, I spent the majority of my time there lounging in the balcony hammock, which is the most under-utilised piece of furniture in the world, particularly in Oz where the climate just screams for them.For anyone feeling a bit stressed or suffering from anxiety, my suggestion would be to forget shrinks and prescription drugs and to buy a hammock and stretch out for half an hour a day because once snug in that cocoon, it is impossible to do anything but relax.I could have spent quite some time in such a chilled-out, slow-paced and downright beautiful environment, but i wanted to be in Hanoi for Christmas where I was to meet cousin Luke. Besides, I would be passing through this way again in not too long.Seeing Luke step out of his airport taxi after fumbling with all of his dong as he paid the driver, was fantastic. We gave eachother a typical awkward, manly, half-handshake, half-hug that put our inhibitions on display, went for some noodle soup and a much-needed chat and a laugh (it's ok, I made him give me a decent embrace a couple of days later in the street).With Luke just finishing another year at uni and me having been on the road for six months, we felt the need to celebrate and soon became creatures of the night, returning to our hotel at 7, 8, 9am and sleeping until dusk. This meant seeking out the pubs and clubs that remained open late, either defying local law or simply paying off those who enforced it. These establishments gave the outward appearance of being closed, but upon opening the door, one would find groups of rowdy, drunken backpackers playing jenga, seasoned travellers with blackened feet laying on cushions smoking sheesha while listening to Bob Marley or a bunch of baby boomer expats rocking out to a DVD of a live concert by The Who.Whatever the crowd, there was always a good night to be had.Christmas in Hanoi was somewhat of a non-event with a few decorations placed on shopfronts to gratify the tourists, so it was good to see that New Years was widely celebrated and done so in style. Luke and I ended up at Titanic, a floating nightclub in a beautiful setting on the Red River. In saying that, not much time was spent enjoying the scenery, at least not the type that didn't shake their stuff on the dance floor. It turned out to be a fantastic party; the music was pumping, there was plenty of dancing to be had and the crowd was a very friendly mix of Hanoians and Westerners. It was a great way to bring in the massive year of 2008!It also marked a turning point for Luke and I whereby we decided to try and get back to some kind of normality and see Hanoi during the light of day. This meant engaging in some slightly more tame, though no less enjoyable, activites such as visiting the botanical gardens and hiring a giant swan in which we pedalled around West Lake, something we both agreed was very romantic.I also used this recovery time to do something I haven't done in two years; get a haircut. So in true Vietnamese style, I sat out on the footpath looking into a mirror that leant against a concrete wall while my barber/bia hoi drinking buddy, Cuong, removed the locks I had worked so hard for. By the time it was over I looked like a cross between a paedophile on crimestoppers, a teenage goth and Prince Valiant, but what do you expect for $1?Finally, we decided it was time to take our leave from Hanoi where the weather over the previous two weeks had been overcast, grey and often downright cold, in search of sunshine and open spaces. Luke signed up for a tour of Halong Bay while I pedalled off in the direction of the Laos border. We met again 10kms from Mai Chau when I saw Luke hanging out of a bus window as it crawled past me on the steep incline of a mountain. I whizzed by it 15 minutes later going down the other side.Luke took to Mai Chau as much as I had, for this was his first sight of rural Vietnam, which is in total contrast to the urban parts of the country. As we sat on the patio enjoying a cold Tiger, he decided that we should climb one of the mountains that stood over us in the distance. He assured me that he could see a path leading to the top, though try as I might, I could see no such path, only dense jungle on steep mountain slopes.Regardless, the following day we set out under the midday sun and proceeded to climb Luke's path, that was in fact a dried creek bed. It ended up being a challenging though rewarding hike that provided great views over the plains below and the rolling hills beyond. We did have aspirations to reach the summit, but no matter how many times we walked for "just 15 more minutes" amongst foliage that was getting thicker and thicker, it never appeared to get any closer. So eventually, satisfied and buggered, we began the slippery descent.We parted ways again the next day as Luke stayed behind to attempt to buy a motorbike so that he could follow his dream of riding in front of me while I choked on his exhaust. We are still yet to meet up again and I'm not sure exactly where he is, but I know he successfully crossed the border on a moto because the Lao immigration officer had no problem with me going through his documents.After a couple of days of tough riding through the scorching hot mountainside where the jungle was as dense as anywhere I've been, I arrived at the tiny, little-used border town of Nam Xoi. The following morning, after four months or two-thirds of my entire time on tour, I farewelled Vietnam......................just as I was starting to get used to being constantly felt-up aswell.Perhaps it's the close living quarters or the tight family and community ties, but something I have noticed throughout my travels is that the people within these asian cultures are far more affectionate towards one another than those of us in the West. It is not uncommon to see two male friends walking down the street with their arms around one another or five crammed onto a bench that should really only seat three or two girls holding hands while riding their bicycles home from school. It is only in Vietnam however, that this physical affection has been extended to me, usually from men who have just had their daily quota of rice wine.It would start when they noticed my hairy arms, which they would all take turns to stroke and compare to their own hairless limbs. They would then move down to my calves and thighs, which would be cause for particular excitement if they knew I was a cyclist. They would give them a firm, tight squeeze and make strange grunting noises. If I was lucky, that would be the extent of the encounter that left me feeling like some exotic animal in a petting zoo. If not, I would soon find hands reaching down my shirt to caress the curls of my hairy chest.Even after the initial excitement, hands would linger and it would not be uncommon for me to be sitting around a table, being practically forced to down shots of rice wine (just what I needed at 9am to wash down my breakfast before a big ride) while the man next to me stroked my thigh beneath my shorts.There will be things I will miss about Vietnam and there will definitely be things I won't, this experience encompasses both sides of that spectrum.Most notably, what I will miss is the amazingly diverse scenery and the equally diverse inhabitants of these places, from beautiful, white-sand beaches to lush, thick, green jungle to vast rice plains to enormously overbearing mountains to the absolutely unique characteristics of The Gulf of Tonkin. It truly has been second to none for the tour and I am so thankful that I've had the opportunity to experience it all on such an intimate level.Goodbye Vietnam.