Legendary golfer appointed ambassador for Vietnamese tourism

Legendary golfer appointed ambassador for Vietnamese tourism <div> <div> <div><span>Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien (R) presents the appointment decision to Australian professional golfer Greg Norman (Photo: VNA)</span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Hanoi (VNA) –</strong> The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has selected Australian professional golfer Greg Norman as the next ambassador for Vietnamese tourism for the 2018-2021 tenure. <p>Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien presented the appointment decision to Norman at a ceremony held in Hanoi on October 31.</p> <p>Speaking at the ceremony, Thien said the selection has taken into account Norman’s contributions to Vietnam.</p> <p>He stressed that Vietnam has favourable locations and resources to develop golf tourism and that the ambassador will help make the country a high-profile destination on the global golf map.</p> <p>Born in 1955, Greg Norman had 331 weeks ranking first on the Official World Golf Rankings in the 1980s and 1990s. “The Great White Shark”, as he has been dubbed by golf fans, has won over 90 international tournaments.</p> <p>During and after his professional sporting career, Norman has also been an active businessman. He currently serves as the chairman and CEO of the Greg Norman Company, a global corporation with a portfolio of subsidiary companies in fields like apparel, interior design, real estate, private equity, golf course design, and more.</p> <p>Norman has worked in Vietnam for 12 years and his company has designed several golf courses in the country, most notably the Bluff Ho Tram Strip in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.</p> <p>In taking over the ambassador post, he has designed a specific action plan that covers writing articles and making videos to promote Vietnam’s golf courses at home and abroad. Norman also intends to bring international golf events and tournaments to Vietnam.</p> <p>Before Norman, there were five previous ambassadors appointed, with Vietnamese actress Ly Nha Ky as the first, serving the 2011-2012 tenure. Ky was remembered for her achievements in encouraging people to vote for Ha Long Bay as one of the seven new wonders of the world.</p> <p>Ky’s successors were New Zealand chief Bobby Chinn as ambassador to Europe from July 2014 to July 2017, and Anoa Suzanne Dussol Perran, a French national of Vietnamese origin, as ambassador to France for 2015-2018.</p> <p>Jordan Vogt-Roberts, Director of the Hollywood movie “Kong: Skull Island”, is also named among these ambassadors serving the 2017-2020 tenure. He has worked to promote Vietnamese tourism by inviting foreign film producers, directors and actors to the country.</p> <p>Most recently, Ly Xuong Can, a descendant of King Ly Thai To – the first king of the Ly dynasty (1010-1225) – was appointed Vietnam’s tourism ambassador to the Republic of Korea for the 2017-2020 tenure. –VNA </p> </div> </div> <br /> Legendary golfer appointed ambassador for Vietnamese tourism Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Legendary golfer appointed ambassador for Vietnamese tourism

Legendary golfer appointed ambassador for Vietnamese tourism Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien (R) presents the a...

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Phu Tho Province: Where Vietnam’s ancestors still roam

Phu Tho Province: Where Vietnam’s ancestors still roam <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>The Hung Kings Temple Festival</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Hung Kings Temple:</strong> The Hung Kings Temple complex is located on Nghia Linh Mountain, 175 meters above sea level, in the province’s Viet Tri City, almost 95km from the capital – Hanoi. The complex of remains is tied to the legend about 18 Hung kings who built the Van Lang State, with Phong Chau as its capital. It consists of the Ha Temple, Thien Quang Pagoda, Gieng Temple, Trung and Thuong temples, Hung kings’ tombs, Mother Goddess Au Co Temple, and Father Goddess Lac Long Quan Temple.</p> <p><strong>Au Co Mother Goddess Temple:</strong> Located in Hien Luong Commune of Ha Hoa District, the Au Co Mother Goddess Temple worships the legendary sacred mother of the Vietnamese. The temple was built five centuries ago and has become a symbol of patriotism and national unity and a favorite spiritual destination.</p> <p><strong>Hien Quan Temple:</strong> The Hien Quan Temple in Hien Quan Commune of Tam Nong District worships the female general and Princess Thieu Hoa. The temple is associated with the Phet Festival, named after the phet (a red ball) that is the centerpiece of the celebrations, held on the 12th and 13th day of the first lunar month to pay tribute to Thieu Hoa. After the rite of offering in the temple, the red ball is covered by a parasol and surrounded by strong women. It is then put into a hole under the sand and thrown for people to catch in the belief that it will bring them luck. The festival attracts a large number of visitors.</p> <p><strong>Hung Lo Communal House:</strong> The Hung Lo ancient village in Hung Lo Commune of Viet Tri City has preserved its ancient communal house, houses and traditional crafts. The House was certified as a national historical site in 1990 with its Dai Mon ceremonial hall and houses built centuries ago and preserved. The space is also home to Phu Tho’s famous art of Xoan singing and community cultural activities. Hung Lo village is also renowned for making traditional noodles and banh chung, square glutinous rice cake filled with green bean paste and fat pork.</p> <p><strong>Lai Len Shrine:</strong> Lai Len Shrine in Phu Duc Village of Viet Tri City’s Kim Duc Commune is the cradle of Xoan singing, where Hung kings taught people how to sing these unique melodies. Visitors to Lai Len have an opportunity to not only admire the shrine but also enjoy Xoan singing.</p> <p><strong>Hung Vuong Museum:</strong> Built in the late 1980s, the Hung Vuong Museum in Viet Tri City’s Gia Cam Ward is a popular destination. The museum displays nearly 700 original objects and thousands of reproductions, which reveal Vietnam’s history from the Stone Age to the national construction period of the Hung kings. The museum welcomes thousands of visitors a day. It is most crowded on the death anniversary of the Hung kings marked on the 10th day of the third lunar month.</p> <p><strong>Midland tea gardens:</strong> Phu Tho Province is not only renowned for its high quality tea products but also its beautiful natural landscapes of boundless green tea fields. Phu Tho has become a major tea production center, with its products exported to different markets and attracting buyers.</p> <p><strong>Banh chung and banh giay:</strong> Legend has it that banh chung (square glutinous rice cake filled with green bean paste and fat pork) and banh giay (glutinous rice dumpling) were first made by Prince Lang Lieu to offer to his father – the sixth Hung king. The square, green banh chung cake symbolizes the earth or mother, and the round, white banh giay symbolizes the sky or father. Today, Vietnamese people still consider banh chung and banh giay indispensable food offerings for their ancestors on specific occasions, especially the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday.</p> <p><strong>Doan Hung grapefruits:</strong> Doan Hung District is renowned for its high quality grapefruit. Doan Hung grapefruits can be harvested as early as October and visitors to the province should not forego a taste of the succulent fruit. Multi-spur chicken: At the Xuan Son National Park in Tan Son District, visitors will not only be impressed by its natural beauty but also see the multi-spur chickens mentioned in Vietnam’s famous legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh. Multi-spur chicken are farmed in a natural environment. They are not only beautiful, their meat is of high quality.</p> <p><strong>Gia Thanh persimmon:</strong> Gia Thanh persimmon is a specialty and pride of Phu Ninh District’s Gia Thanh Commune. This high quality seedless persimmon variety has been grown in Gia Thanh for more than 70 years. Gia Thanh persimmons were offered in the past to Hung kings. Its harvest season starts in the autumn.</p> <p><strong>Pickled meat:</strong> Pickled meat is a specialty of the Muong people in Thanh Son District. The product is not only found in the market of Phu Tho but also many other northern provinces and cities.</p> <p>Hoa Quynh</p> </div> <br /> Phu Tho Province: Where Vietnam’s ancestors still roam Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Phu Tho Province: Where Vietnam’s ancestors still roam

Phu Tho Province: Where Vietnam’s ancestors still roam The Hung Kings Temple Festival Hung Kings Temple: The Hung Kings ...

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Double-decker buses in Hanoi fail to attract tourists

Double-decker buses in Hanoi fail to attract tourists <div> <div><span>Hop on-hop off buses are not attracting passengers due to high ticket prices. (Photo: soha.vn)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA)</strong> – The number of passengers using open-top tour buses in the capital was averaging about only 7 per trip each day, according to a report by the Hanoi Transport Company (Transerco).</p> <p>The main reason for the lack of passengers was the high fares, said the corporation.</p> <p>Vu Van Vien, Director of Hanoi’s Department of Transport, said that “the city tour was aimed at tourists, especially foreign guests”.</p> <p>“The bus company should develop programmes and work with travel companies to expand the service,” said Vien, adding that this would take from six months to one year.</p> <p>Last year, the city received 23.83 million visitors, of which international tourists were estimated at 4.95 million. </p> <p>However, the long intervals between tours was an another reason that passengers were not getting on board, he said.</p> <p>At present, there are three double-decker buses running every 30 minutes. </p> <p>Despite being a key unit in charge of the city’s public transport, Transerco had no experience in tourism so it had cooperated with Anh Viet Travel Company to promote and advertise the service, leading to high fees.</p> <p>Although the existing buses had failed to attract passengers, Hanoi had permitted another company to open the same service.</p> <p>Vien explained: “It’s fair for all units that want to do business. Opening more city tours will help the bus companies to improve quality as well as give more options for passengers.”</p> <p>In May this year, Hanoi launched its first double-decker city tour, with hop-on and hop-off at 13 stops, running through 25 streets and taking tourists to 30 destinations around the city.</p> <p>Tickets cost 300,000 VND (13.3 USD) for a four-hour tour, 450,000 VND (20 USD) for 24 hours and 650,000 VND (28.8 USD) for 48 hours.</p> <p>The bus arrives every 30 minutes from 9am to 5pm every day. Tourists can choose to jump off at any bus stop along the route.</p> <p>The buses are equipped with an automatic multi-lingual narration system in Vietnamese, English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.</p> <p>Each bus is worth 6 billion VND (258,000 USD) with loading capacity of 80 passengers and free wifi, refrigerators, TVs and surveillance cameras.</p> <p>The Vietnam-Hanoi Tourism Stock Company is the second business to be permitted to run open-top city tours.</p> <p>The new route will run 14.8km with 10 stops, operating from 9am to 5.30pm every day.</p> <p>The company has yet to announce tickets prices, but a representative said they would not be subsidised but calculated to ensure profit and market competitiveness.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Double-decker buses in Hanoi fail to attract tourists Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Double-decker buses in Hanoi fail to attract tourists

Double-decker buses in Hanoi fail to attract tourists Hop on-hop off buses are not attracting passengers due to high ticket prices. (Photo:...

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New project boosts Thua Thien-Hue tourism infrastructure

New project boosts Thua Thien-Hue tourism infrastructure <div> <div><span>The Meridian Gate, the main gate to the Hue Imperial City – a significant tourism destination in Thua Thien – Hue. (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Thua Thien – Hue (VNA)</strong> – Authorities in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue have approved a sub-project to develop tourism infrastructure in the locality.</p> <p>It is part of a tourism development project that supports comprehensive development in the Greater Mekong Sub-region.</p> <p>Costing 8.05 million USD, of which 6.4 million USD is sourced from the Asian Development Fund (ADF), the sub-project aims to develop a sustainable, comprehensive and balanced tourism industry in line with the ASEAN tourism development strategy for 2016-2025. It will help boost Vietnam’s tourism competitiveness, protect local natural and cultural heritages, and enhance the capacity of tourism management.</p> <p>The sub-project covers upgrading a 1.2km road linking the 1A National Highway to the south-west of Hon Chen, a spiritual destination on Huong River; building a drainage system and a 5,000sq.m car park; and building and upgrading five wharves on Huong River and two others in Tam Giang lagoon.  </p> <p>It will also support the building of cross-country routes to connect destinations across the region, contributing to the comprehensive growth of countries along the regional economic corridor, particularly Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. –VNA </p> </div> <br /> New project boosts Thua Thien-Hue tourism infrastructure Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

New project boosts Thua Thien-Hue tourism infrastructure

New project boosts Thua Thien-Hue tourism infrastructure The Meridian Gate, the main gate to the Hue Imperial City – a significant tourism ...

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Vietnam becomes Asia’s fourth most visited cruise destination in 2018

Vietnam becomes Asia’s fourth most visited cruise destination in 2018 <div> <p>Vietnamese ports are anticipating a total of 493 visits by cruise ships from all cruise lines in 2018, a 20 per cent increase from the 407 visits in 2017.</p> <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Nearly 500 cruise ships will visit Vietnam this year, which reflects impressive growth</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>This increase has propelled Vietnam to become the fourth most-visited country in Asia by cruise ships. In terms of popularity, Chan May is the most visited port in Vietnam with 159 calls in 2018, followed by Phu My (139 calls), Cai Lan (111 calls), and Nha Trang (72 calls).</p> <p>With its long coastlines, stunning beaches, and enchanting local culture, Vietnam is an attractive cruise destination with huge potential and drawing increasing interest from overseas cruise tourists who want to visit Vietnam by sea. Vietnam’s port infrastructure is developing rapidly to meet the growing demand for cruising to accommodate larger cruise ships, allowing more cruise lines to include Vietnamese ports in their itineraries.</p> <p>Princess Cruises will bring in more than 80,000 international tourists to Vietnam this year, with six ships visiting Phu My, Nha Trang, Danang, and Cai Lan. The increasing demand for inbound cruise travel to Vietnam is set to contribute to the growth of the local economy through passenger spending on sight-seeing attractions, shopping, food, and the cruise lines’ re-stocking of ship provisions.</p> <p>“The number of Vietnamese people who took a cruise in 2017 was 5,900. Cruisers from Vietnam comprise only 0.2 per cent of the four million people in Asia who took a cruise in 2017, which highlights the huge potential of the Vietnamese market. These numbers are expected to grow in the coming years as more and more Vietnamese go cruising due to the rise of the middle class,” said Farriek Tawfik, director of Southeast Asia for Princess Cruises.</p> <p>According to Tawfik, the rapidly growing middle class and rising consumer wealth in Vietnam create increased demand for luxurious holidays overseas. Princess Cruises is well-positioned to meet increasing demand among Vietnamese passengers opting for luxury cruise travel to destinations such as Alaska/USA and Europe and the Mediterranean, as well for those opting to sail in Southeast Asia, staying closer to Vietnam.</p> <p>Responding to this demand, Princess Cruises is launching its global portfolio of sailings for the new 2018/2019 itineraries to Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe/Mediterranean, Japan, as well as Southeast Asia, in Vietnam this week.</p> <p>“We are seeing more Vietnamese travellers embarking on cruises and they are happy to fly to their departure point to reach their cruise destination quicker and spend more time exploring and relaxing before and after the cruise. Fly-Cruise packages are ideal for these travellers and we anticipate that they will become increasingly popular in the Vietnamese market,” said Tran Chuong Cuong, director of Golden Star Travel.</p> <p>Sapphire Princess together with Diamond Princess owned and operated by Princess Cruises will be homeporting in Singapore in November 2018 until March 2019, offering a range of 3- to 13-day sailings around Southeast Asia. These cruises meet increasing demand among Vietnamese families as well as first-time cruisers opting for short-haul trips sailing out of Singapore to various ports in Southeast Asia.</p> <p>Princess Cruises’ 17 ships sail to 360 destinations across the globe and offers luxurious accommodation, world-class dining and entertainment onboard that appeal to a growing number of Vietnamese people seeking a luxurious cruise experience that offers memories for a lifetime.</p> </div> <p>By <a>Thanh Van</a></p> </div> </div> <br /> Vietnam becomes Asia’s fourth most visited cruise destination in 2018 Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam becomes Asia’s fourth most visited cruise destination in 2018

Vietnam becomes Asia’s fourth most visited cruise destination in 2018 Vietnamese ports are anticipating a total of 493 visits by cruise shi...

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Vietnam and Azerbaijan travel businesses seek collaboration opportunities

Vietnam and Azerbaijan travel businesses seek collaboration opportunities <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The meeting attracted representatives from five Vietnamese travel companies, Qatar Airways as well as 55 Azerbaijan companies. The high number of attendees from a large number of Azerbaijan companies shows the current level of interest in Vietnam’s tourist industry.</p> <p>At the event, in addition to introducing their services, Vietnamese businesses highly praised Azerbaijan’s tourism potential and expressed their surprise at the development of its economy and infrastructure. They were also impressed by the landscapes, the peaceful environment and friendly people of Azerbaijan.</p> <p>After undertaking a number fact-finding tours, Vietnamese businesses wish to start opening tours of Azerbaijan and hope that in return Azerbaijan businesses will begin to organize tours to Vietnam.</p> <p>Duong Thanh Chung, a representative of Qatar Airways, said that the airline has made great efforts to open tours from Vietnam to Azerbaijan.</p> <p>Located in both Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan shares its borders with many large countries such as Russia, Turkey and Iran. It has great potential for tourism development with a rich history, culture and impressive architectural projects.</p> <p>Some images from the meeting:</p> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div> <br /> Vietnam and Azerbaijan travel businesses seek collaboration opportunities Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam and Azerbaijan travel businesses seek collaboration opportunities

Vietnam and Azerbaijan travel businesses seek collaboration opportunities The meeting attracted representatives from five Vietname...

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Culture, Sports and Tourism Festival opens in Ninh Binh

Culture, Sports and Tourism Festival opens in Ninh Binh <div> <p>The opening ceremony featured songs, dances and short plays praising the natural beauty, culture, and history of Ninh Binh province as well as its encouraging achievements during the integration and development process.</p> <p>Addressing the opening, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Ngoc Thien said that the festival is being held as part a series of activities marking the 1050th anniversary of the Dai Co Viet state, the first feudal state of Vietnam.</p> <p>The event aimed to promote Ninh Binh’s cultural and tourism potential to visitors while raising public responsibility in forming and furthering Vietnamese culture and contributing to socio-economic development.</p> <p>A wide range of activities will be held during the festival, including an exhibition featuring propaganda posters on protecting environment for culture, sports and tourism development, an amateur <em>‘cheo’</em> (traditional opera) contest, a puppetry competition, and a photo exhibition, plus various sporting events.</p> <p>At the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam presented the Prime Minister’s decision to recognise a royal bed, inside the temple worshiping King Dinh Tien Hoang, as a national treasure to the authorities of Ninh Binh province.</p> <p>The antique, dating from the 17th century, is being preserved at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital historical relic site in Ninh Binh.</p> </div> <br /> Culture, Sports and Tourism Festival opens in Ninh Binh Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Culture, Sports and Tourism Festival opens in Ninh Binh

Culture, Sports and Tourism Festival opens in Ninh Binh The opening ceremony featured songs, dances and short plays praising the natural be...

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Check out these gems on your journey to misty Sapa

Check out these gems on your journey to misty Sapa <div> <p>A train trip from the centre of Sapa town to the Fansipan cable car station on vintage European carriages offers visitors a stunning view of Muong Hoa valley with breath-taking terraced fields and charming small cottages.</p> <p>A 75% discount until December 31, 2018 means the return ticket now costs only VND50,000 (just a little over US$2). The service is available from 6:30am to 10pm.</p> <p>Don’t rush to the cable car station immediately after getting off the train. Spend your time exploring the field of buckwheat flowers that covers nearly 8,000 square metres right at the entrance to the station.</p> <p>Many young women immerse themselves in the field of buckwheat flowers only to forget that they came here for Fansipan Peak.</p> <p>Wander through the sea of pure white and romantic purple pink and take a deep breath of the fresh autumn air of the northwestern region.</p> <p>Besides buckwheat flowers, you may lose yourselves in the local life with gorgeous ethnic costumes and enchanting dances and songs performed by people of the Mong, Dao and Tay ethnic groups.</p> <p>And if you are a food fanatic, head to the market to enjoy superb local cuisine that may make you not want to return to the city.</p> <p>When all the eating, flower admiring and wandering are done, hop on the cable car that takes you to a higher altitude for a magical view of the vivid colours of Hoang Lien Son mountain in late autumn.</p> <p>Walk slowly along the stone steps to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere prevailing around the giant Amitabha Buddha statue.</p> <p>It is a sublime experience to say prayers and listen to the sound of the bell in the wind amidst the vastness of nature.</p> </div> <br /> Check out these gems on your journey to misty Sapa Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Check out these gems on your journey to misty Sapa

Check out these gems on your journey to misty Sapa A train trip from the centre of Sapa town to the Fansipan cable car station on vintage E...

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Vietnam welcomes 12.8 million foreign tourists in 10 months

Vietnam welcomes 12.8 million foreign tourists in 10 months <div> <div><span>Foreign visitors to an exhibition at the Temple of Literature in Hanoi (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA)</strong> – More than 12.8 million foreign tourists have chosen Vietnam as their destination over the last 10 months, up 22.4 percent year on year, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT).</p> <p>The VNAT said on October 26 that the country has welcomed over 1.2 million foreign visitors this month, rising 17.6 percent from a year earlier.</p> <p>In the 10 months, it has seen increases in the numbers of tourists from most markets, particularly the Republic of Korea (48.3 percent), Finland (33.3 percent), China’s Hong Kong (29.6 percent), China (28.8 percent), and Denmark (16.4 percent). Although Africa is not a major market, the number of arrivals from this continent has risen by 19.7 percent.</p> <p>Meanwhile, holidaymakers from Laos have dropped by 15.7 percent and from Cambodia down 8.1 percent compared to the same period last year.</p> <p>Domestic travellers totalled 67.9 million between January and October, the VNAT noted, adding that the sector earned 505 trillion VND (21.5 billion USD) from tourists in total, up 21 percent.</p> <p>VNAT General Director Nguyen Van Tuan said Vietnam aims to attract 15 – 16 million foreign arrivals in 2018. The fourth quarter is a peak season for foreign tourists, so if the current growth rate is sustained and there aren’t any sudden upheavals, the country will receive at least 15.7 million foreign vacationers this year.</p> <p>To attract more foreigners in the coming months, the VNAT has organised a tourism promotion programme in Nanning and Shenzhen cities of China from October 22 to 27, he added.</p> <p>In the national tourism development strategy until 2020, China is considered a key source of tourists. It has continually ranked first among sources of foreign travellers to the Southeast Asian nation, accounting for 38 percent of total foreigners visiting here.</p> <p>Tuan said the VNAT has also coordinated with some agencies to launch a smart tourism portal at <a>www.dulich.vtv.vn</a> so as to provide comprehensive information about Vietnam’s tourism and help users gain better travel experiences in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. -VNA</p> </div> <br /> Vietnam welcomes 12.8 million foreign tourists in 10 months Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam welcomes 12.8 million foreign tourists in 10 months

Vietnam welcomes 12.8 million foreign tourists in 10 months Foreign visitors to an exhibition at the Temple of Literature in Hanoi (Photo: ...

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Central VN waterfalls make a splash

Central VN waterfalls make a splash <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Trees and water: Mơ Waterfall in Huế, surrounded by the greenery of the national park. — VNS Photos Hồng Vân</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><a>Viet Nam News</a></p> <p>by Hồng Vân</p> <p>As the central region of Việt Nam boasts some of the best white-sand beaches with warming sunshine and clear water, the area’s eco tourism is often overlooked, especially the natural waterfalls, which never fail to impress travelers.</p> <p>While Mơ Waterfall in Huế City mesmerises visitors with its gentle view of the green national park, Grăng Waterfall is  known as a wild beauty in the middle of the jungle in Quảng Nam Province.</p> <p>To reach Mơ Waterfall in Lăng Cô Town, Phú Lộc District, one can travel from Đà Nẵng, about 40km away from Huế. Drive to the end of Trịnh Tố Tâm Street to reach An Cư Tây Village.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Time to reflect: The clear pools of Mơ Waterfall provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The drive is pleasant, winding past peaceful rice fields and spectacular mountains. One may also catch sight of a water buffalo leisurely enjoying dried grass or meet a hospitable farmer.</p> <p>Mơ Waterfall welcomes its visitors with the dense jungle greenery, which is reflected in the cool, clear water of the falls.</p> <p>Mơ Stream is fed by water from Bạch Mã National Park, 1,400 metres above sea level. Water flows down the big stones, creating pools for swimming. The bubbling sound of water mixes with the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds to form the melodic sound of the jungle.</p> <p>Locals have set up several camps near the waterfall for visitors to relax. </p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>It’s the journey: The scenic road leading to Mơ Waterfall from Đà Nẵng.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Wild, untouched beauty</strong></p> <p>Unlike the gentle Mơ Waterfall, Grăng looks like a strip of silk shining in the middle of the old, mysterious jungle.</p> <p>Grăng is located in Tà bhing Commune, Nam Giang District. It is about three km from  Highway 14D.</p> <p>Senior citizens of Zo Ra Village in Tabhing Commune said Grăng in the Cơ Tu language is a type of fish.</p> <p>The waterfall is associated with a mysterious legend. In the old time, when this region had yet to be discovered by humans, a stream in the foot of the waterfall was filled with grăng fish.</p> <p>Every few years, the strongest grăng would manage to jump over the tall waterfall in order to become sacred fish and save the rest of the fish from death.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Check it out: Visiting Grăng Waterfall is a highlight of any trip to Quảng Nam Province. — Photo chudu24</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>One year, a storm hit the region hard, bringing torrential rain for a whole month. The waterfall became fiercer than ever. Even the strongest grăng fish failed to cross over the waterfall. The grăng died, and their bodies floated to the surface of the water.</p> <p>Local people named the waterfall Grăng after this legendary event.</p> <p>Locals said big grăng fish used to be easy to find. Some weighed up to 40kg, enough to feed the whole village. Locals still find these fish from time to time, but they are very small and quite rare.</p> <p>Grăng Waterfall has three major flows at different levels. Visitors are mesmerised by the sight of water falling from 30 metres.</p> <p>Travelers can set up camp nearby to rest, contemplate the landscape and enjoy the fresh air.</p> <p>A trip to Quảng Nam is not complete without a visit to Sông Bung 4 Hydroelectric Power Lake, dubbed “the giant mirror in the middle of the valley.” Be sure to stop at the Zơ Ra traditional weaving village, where Cơ Tu people “weave local culture” and hold festivals where one can enjoy traditional dances and try local specialities like sticky rice and rice wine. — VNS</p> </div> <br /> Central VN waterfalls make a splash Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Central VN waterfalls make a splash

Central VN waterfalls make a splash Trees and water: Mơ Waterfall in Huế, surrounded by the greenery of the national park. — VNS Phot...

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Top ten destinations in Nghe An during autumn season

Top ten destinations in Nghe An during autumn season <div> <p>Muong Long heaven gate is a well-known destination for young travelers due to the majestic mountains and beautiful white clouds. It is about 60km away from Muong Xen town, Ky Son district and considered a ‘Sapa of Nghe An’. Visitors can explore local life by visiting Diospyros gardens or going to village fairs. There are many things to do here for travelers such as visit the rose gardens. Rubber tree forest in Nghia Dan is considered a beautiful destination all around the year. Tourists can take beautiful photos for their Facebook or Instagram profiles with stunning landscapes like a Western European nation. Covering an area of over 70 hectares, lagerstroemia tomentosa forest in Tuong Duong district is an ideal option for an autumn tour. It looks and feels as if it’s something out of a classic Charles Dickens novel. Autumn is the best time to visit the laden fruit-diospyros orchard. From Vinh city, visitors can explore the garden in Nam Anh commune, Nam Dan district and can also visit Dai Tue pagoda nearby. In October, Co lau flower fields attract a large number of visitors and photographers due to romantic landscape. Visitors can also rent boats out to the lake close by. Ban Ve hydropower lake impresses visitors by pristine natural landscape and majestic mountains. Pu Mat National Park is famous for spectacular Khe Kem waterfalls and diversified flora carpet. It is an ideal destination for visitors who want to explore beautiful landscapes of mountains and forests. The lake is unspoiled and untouched, perhaps in a decade it won’t be as so people should take the chance to visit it as soon as they can. Sheep fields in Yen Thanh district are a popular check-in point for young people. With the luscious hills in the background this again is a great photography opportunity. Ve Vung dam is also an ideal destination for camping activities. It is surrounded by protective forests and about 50km away from Vinh City. In addition, visitors can row boats to savour scenic views here. A must take family trip in the autumn and a good chance for children to bond with their parents in the outdoors away from their phones and computers. Terraced fields in Hanh Dich, Que Phong district attract a lot of visitors in autumn. The golden rice field are absolutely mesmerizing to see in person.</p> <div> <div> <div><br /> Top ten destinations in Nghe An during autumn season Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br /> <table> <tr> <td><em><span>Muong Long heaven gate is a well-known destination for young travelers due to the majestic mountains and beautiful white clouds. It is about 60km away from Muong Xen town, Ky Son district and considered a ‘Sapa of Nghe An’. Visitors can explore local life by visiting Diospyros gardens or going to village fairs. There are many things to do here for travelers such as visit the rose gardens.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Rubber tree forest in Nghia Dan is considered a beautiful destination all around the year. Tourists can take beautiful photos for their Facebook or Instagram profiles with stunning landscapes like a Western European nation.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Covering an area of over 70 hectares, lagerstroemia tomentosa forest in Tuong Duong district is an ideal option for an autumn tour. It looks and feels as if it’s something out of a classic Charles Dickens novel.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Autumn is the best time to visit the laden fruit-diospyros orchard. From Vinh city, visitors can explore the garden in Nam Anh commune, Nam Dan district and can also visit Dai Tue pagoda nearby. </span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>In October, Co lau flower fields attract a large number of visitors and photographers due to romantic landscape. Visitors can also rent boats out to the lake close by.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Ban Ve hydropower lake impresses visitors by pristine natural landscape and majestic mountains.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Pu Mat National Park is famous for spectacular Khe Kem waterfalls and diversified flora carpet. It is an ideal destination for visitors who want to explore beautiful landscapes of mountains and forests. The lake is unspoiled and untouched, perhaps in a decade it won’t be as so people should take the chance to visit it as soon as they can.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Sheep fields in Yen Thanh district are a popular check-in point for young people. With the luscious hills in the background this again is a great photography opportunity. </span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Ve Vung dam is also an ideal destination for camping activities. It is surrounded by protective forests and about 50km away from Vinh City. In addition, visitors can row boats to savour scenic views here. A must take family trip in the autumn and a good chance for children to bond with their parents in the outdoors away from their phones and computers.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Terraced fields in Hanh Dich, Que Phong district attract a lot of visitors in autumn. The golden rice field are absolutely mesmerizing to see in person.</span></em></td> </tr> </table> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Top ten destinations in Nghe An during autumn season

Top ten destinations in Nghe An during autumn season Muong Long heaven gate is a well-known destination for young travelers due to the maje...

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AFP: Hanoi’s colonial-era railway becomes selfie hotspot

AFP: Hanoi’s colonial-era railway becomes selfie hotspot <div> <div><span>French-built railroad tracks have become a hotspot for tourists. (Photo: AFP)</span></div> <p>In the heart of Hanoi’s busy Old Quarter, French-built railroad tracks have become a hotspot for tourists seeking the perfect Instagram selfie, and for cafe owners serving up hot coffee and cold beer, according to an article by the Paris-headquartered AFP news agency.</p> </div> <br /> AFP: Hanoi’s colonial-era railway becomes selfie hotspot Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

AFP: Hanoi’s colonial-era railway becomes selfie hotspot

AFP: Hanoi’s colonial-era railway becomes selfie hotspot French-built railroad tracks have become a hotspot for tourists. (Photo: AFP) In ...

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Jetstar Pacific increases Da Nang- Taipei flights

Jetstar Pacific increases Da Nang- Taipei flights <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Accordingly, flights will take off from Da Nang at 11am while those from Taipei to Vietnam’s Central City will leave at 3.40pm. Total flying time is 2.35 hours.</p> <p>Jetstar Pacific became the first budget airlines to connect Da Nang and Taipei from December 2016. With three flights per week, it has transported nearly 100,000 passengers between the two regions so far. With the adjustment, the low-cost airlines will contribute to promoting tourism growth and facilitating travelling of visitors to Vietnam’s central region.</p> <p>Last year, Vietnam received more than 610,000 Taiwanese people while more than 380,000 Vietnamese people visited Taiwan.</p> <p>More than 1.6 million foreign visitors came to Da Nang in the first half of this year, a year-on-year rise of 47.1%.</p> </div> <br /> Jetstar Pacific increases Da Nang- Taipei flights Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Jetstar Pacific increases Da Nang- Taipei flights

Jetstar Pacific increases Da Nang- Taipei flights Accordingly, flights will take off from Da Nang at 11am while those from Taipei ...

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Ninh Binh’s beautiful spots popularised in Khanh Hoa province

Ninh Binh’s beautiful spots popularised in Khanh Hoa province <div> <div><span>Tran An complex is known as “Ha Long Bay on Land”(Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong><br /> Khanh Hoa (VNA) –</strong> The Tourism Department and the Tourism Association of the northern province of Ninh Binh recently organised a tourism promotion conference in Nha Trang city, the central province of Khanh Hoa, drawing the participation of nearly 100 tourism agencies and companies from both provinces.</p> <p>Throughout the event, Ninh Binh wanted to connect with tourism firms in Khanh Hoa to attract more travellers to the locality and vice versa. It expects to learn experience from Khanh Hoa in organising the Visit Vietnam Year 2019 as Ninh Binh will host the event in 2020.</p> <p>Local excellent tourism products and policies to attract investment in the field were introduced at the event. Besides renowned destinations like Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Trang An Landscape Complex – a world cultural and natural heritage, Hoa Lu ancient capital and Bai Dinh Pagoda, the province is working to develop alluring tourism packages.</p> <p>Representatives from tourism firms suggested measures for Ninh Binh province to extend visitors’ stay in the locality with a view to increasing tourism revenue. Local tourism sector should improve quality of accommodation and services while developing more night entertainment activities.</p> <p>Located about 90 kilometres south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is known as “Ha Long Bay on Land”, given its limestone mountains rising out of paddy fields. The most famous local attraction is the Trang An Landscape Complex with a total of 40 tourism spots of historical, cultural, art and natural vestiges, including 20 recognised as national heritages.</p> <p>In UNESCO’s words, “Trang An is a resplendent complex of limestone karst peaks which are permeated with valleys, including submerged ones, and surrounded by steep, almost vertical cliffs”.</p> <p>Together with other famous sites in the province such as Tam Coc Grottos and Van Long Lagoon, the Trang An Landscape Complex was also used as a location for the movie Kong: Skull Island, one of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of 2017. The locations opened to tourists last April.</p> <p>The province has been listed as one of the 50 best spots to visit in 2018 by US travel site Insider.</p> <div><span><em>Ripe rice</em> season at <em>Tam Coc</em>–<em>Bich Dong</em> tourism site (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p>Ninh Binh is striving to become one of the tourism hubs of Vietnam by 2020 and to turn tourism into a spearhead industry of the local economy by 2030. This is the goal of the province’s master plan on tourism development until 2025, with a vision to 2030.</p> <p>Ninh Binh looks to attract 1 million foreign arrivals and 7 million domestic visitors by 2020, 1.5 million and 9 million by 2025, and 2.1 million and 11.2 million by 2030. Meanwhile, tourism revenue is expected at over 4.2 trillion VND (179.7 million USD), 11.8 trillion VND (504.8 million USD), and 27 trillion VND (1.15 billion USD), respectively.</p> <p>Under the plan, the province will turn Ninh Binh city into the main tourism centre while Tam Diep city and townships in Hoa Lu, Gia Vien, Nho Quan, Yen Mo, Yen Khanh and Kim Son districts will be developed into supporting centres.</p> <p>The Trang An Landscape Complex and the Kenh Ga – Van Trinh national tourist area will continue to be improved to deserve their national status. Six provincial tourist areas and more places of interest will also be formed in the coming years.</p> <div><span>(Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p>To realise this plan, Ninh Binh is set to ask for the Government and relevant ministries’ permission to apply some special preferential policies to attract investment to tourism.</p> <p>Provincial authorities also called on the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to further include local tourism information in promotion programmes for Vietnamese tourism and support Ninh Binh in training human resources, expanding markets and products, and protecting the environment.</p> <p>According to the provincial Department of Tourism, Ninh Binh welcomed more than 7 million visitors and earned over 2.5 trillion VND (107 million USD) from this industry in 2017, respectively rising by 9.5 percent and 43 percent year on year.</p> <p>In the last eight months, over 6 million vacationers chose Ninh Binh as their destination, helping the province gain 2.3 trillion VND (98.4 million USD) in tourism revenue, up 5 percent and 18.8 percent from the same period last year, respectively.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Ninh Binh’s beautiful spots popularised in Khanh Hoa province Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Ninh Binh’s beautiful spots popularised in Khanh Hoa province

Ninh Binh’s beautiful spots popularised in Khanh Hoa province Tran An complex is known as “Ha Long Bay on Land”(Photo: VNA) Khanh Hoa (VN...

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Quang Ninh expects to welcome Vietnam’s 15 millionth foreign tourist

Quang Ninh expects to welcome Vietnam’s 15 millionth foreign tourist <div> <div><span>Welcome ceremony was held for foreign tourists arriving in Ha Long City on the first day of 2018 (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA)</strong> – Vietnam expects to welcome its 15 millionth foreign visitor of 2018 in Ha Long City, the northern coastal province of Quang Ninh, in late November or early December.</p> <p>The province, home to the world natural heritage site of Ha Long Bay, is the host of the National Tourism Year 2018 themed “Ha Long-Heritage, Wonder, Friendly Destination”.</p> <p>Highlights of the National Tourism Year 2018, which offers at least 51 cultural, sports and tourism events, included the opening ceremony and the Carnaval Ha Long 2018 in Ha Long city, which took place last April.</p> <p>Meanwhile, the closing programme will be held in January 2019 in combination with the opening of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2019 and the Ha Long – FLC 2019 open golf tournament.</p> <p>As a result, during the first nine months of 2018, Quang Ninh welcomed more than 10 million tourists, completing 83 percent of its target for the whole year.</p> <p>The provincial Department of Tourism reported that the number of international holidaymakers to the locality exceeded 3.6 million in the period, a rise of 19 percent against the same period last year, and fulfilling 72 percent of the yearly target.</p> <p>During the period, the local tourism sector completed 80 percent of the yearly revenue target, earning more than 17.5 trillion VND (747.3 million USD), up 30 percent year-on-year.</p> <p>Quang Ninh hopes to welcome 12 million visitors for the entire year, including five million foreigners, and earn 22 trillion VND (968 million USD) in tourism revenue.</p> <p>By 2020, the province aims to welcome 15-16 million tourists, including 7 million foreigners, and rake in 30 trillion VND – 40 trillion VND (1.3 billion USD – 1.7 billion USD) in revenue. The tourism sector is expected to contribute 14-15 percent to the gross regional domestic product (GRDP).</p> <p>According to Director of the provincial Tourism Department Pham Ngoc Thuy, Quang Ninh’s master plan on tourism development by 2020 with a vision to 2030 sets the target of turning Quang Ninh into an international tourism centre and the nation’s leading tourism centre which has a synchronous and modern infrastructure system and diversified tourism products.</p> <p>With a range of stunning landscapes, clear turquoise sea and spectacular limestone pillars together with numerous tourism investment projects, Quang Ninh boasts huge potential to develop tourism.</p> <p>The province has a coastline of more than 250 kilometres and over 2,000 islands, two-thirds of the total number in Vietnam. The spectacular stretch of coast connects the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay with majestic natural scenery, Bai Tu Long Bay, Van Don and Co To islands and Tra Co beach with Cat Ba National Park in the northern port city of Hai Phong.</p> <p>Along with the renowned Ha Long Bay, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, Ngoc Vung, Dai beaches in Van Don island district and Tra Co and Vinh Thuc in Mong Cai city have grown in stature among domestic and international tourists thanks to their breathtaking sea and coral reef.</p> <p>Together with the Bach Dang bridge and Ha Long-Quang Ninh Highway, Van Don International Airport, which will begin serving commercial flights in late 2018, is also expected to help attract more foreign holidaymakers to the province.</p> <p>The airport is set to cater for nine air routes and be capable of serving some 7,000 passengers per day. It is hoped to have annual capacity of 2 – 2.5 million passengers by 2020 and 5 million by 2030.</p> <p>Thanks to its clear investment policies, Quang Ninh has attracted a lot of strategic investors in luxury service tourism projects, thus helping change the face of the province and its tourism sector.</p> <p>To date, some projects have been put into operation and produced effective results on local tourism such as the Vincom Ha Long commercial centre, Marina Plaza amusement park, Sun World Ha Long Park, the five-star Vinpearl Ha Long Bay Resort, and Wyndham and Hoang Gia (Royal) Hotels.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Quang Ninh expects to welcome Vietnam’s 15 millionth foreign tourist Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Quang Ninh expects to welcome Vietnam’s 15 millionth foreign tourist

Quang Ninh expects to welcome Vietnam’s 15 millionth foreign tourist Welcome ceremony was held for foreign tourists arriving in Ha Long Cit...

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Laguna Lang Co named among Robb Report’s top resorts in Vietnam

Laguna Lang Co named among Robb Report’s top resorts in Vietnam <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em>The six-time Major winner, Sir Nick Faldo, plays golf at Laguna Lang Co Resort </em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Being recognized for its quality by such a prestigious journal is testament to the Banyan Tree Group’s commitment to deliver Vietnam’s most desired golf experience.</p> <p>The complex is comprised of the Banyan Tree Hotel, the beachfront Angsana Hotel, two Banyan Tree and Angsana branded spas, and luxury residences, including Banyan Tree Residences and Laguna Park residences which decorate an 18-hole golf course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo.</p> <p>All rooms at Banyan Tree Lang Co are villas with private pools, located by the beach, surrounding a lagoon or on a hill overlooking the bay, with each property providing absolute privacy and tranquility to visitors.</p> <p>The villas in their equally spectacular backdrops are currently available for purchase, with long term golf memberships being reserved for property owners only.</p> <p>Furthermore, members of the resort can enjoy reciprocals with IMG Prestige, providing opportunities for property owners to play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses.</p> <p>Laguna Lang Co’s reputation has been growing rapidly over the past five years, with a steady increase in avid golfers visiting the complex in search of a unique golf experience.</p> <p>This reflects the combination of a great championship course that is impeccably maintained with world-class service and facilities.</p> </div> <br /> Laguna Lang Co named among Robb Report’s top resorts in Vietnam Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Laguna Lang Co named among Robb Report’s top resorts in Vietnam

Laguna Lang Co named among Robb Report’s top resorts in Vietnam The six-time Major winner, Sir Nick Faldo, plays golf at Laguna Lang...

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HCM City inks deals with Emirates to woo UAE tourists

HCM City inks deals with Emirates to woo UAE tourists <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Badr Abbas (L), senior vice president at the Far East Commercial Operations of Emirates, shakes hands with Bui Ta Hoang Vu, director of the HCMC Department of Tourism, at a signing ceremony held on October 24 in Dubai </span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The signing ceremony took place at a conference on promoting trade, investment and tourism in HCMC, held in Dubai, on the occasion of the municipal chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong’s visit to the United Arab Emirates from October 22 to 25.</p> <p>Under the agreement, the UAE-based carrier and HCM City, Vietnam’s tourism hub, will team up to organize a slew of marketing events, roadshows and tourism exchange activities to attract more tourists from the United Arab Emirates to visit the city and vice versa, according to the municipal tourism department.</p> <p>Badr Abbas, senior vice president at the Far East Commercial Operations of Emirates, in a media release said that the carrier wants to work with local tourism and trade agencies to introduce HCM City as a tourist destination and a commercial center in the region as well as in the world.</p> <p>The airline currently operates direct daily flights to HCM City and Hanoi. Regarding HCM City, it has transported more than 1.25 million passengers to and from the city since its expansion to this city six years ago, he said, adding that Dubai is among the top five destinations of visitors from HCM City.</p> <p>At the conference, the carrier also signed a memorandum of understanding with the city in the field of commerce. In particular, Emirates SkyCargo, the freight division of Emirates Airline, will collaborate with the HCM City Tourism Promotion Center to bolster commercial activities across the two locations.</p> <p>Last year, Emirates SkyCargo transported nearly 50,000 tons of import-export commodities of Vietnam, rising 21% year-on-year.</p> <p>Besides this, during the given period, the volume of Vietnamese fruit and vegetable products, comprising rambutan, mango and litchi, which were shipped to Dubai by Emirates SkyCargo, increased five times versus the year-ago period.</p> </div> <br /> HCM City inks deals with Emirates to woo UAE tourists Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

HCM City inks deals with Emirates to woo UAE tourists

HCM City inks deals with Emirates to woo UAE tourists Badr Abbas (L), senior vice president at the Far East Commercial Operations of...

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New Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave tour launched

New Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave tour launched <div><span>A new tour to explore Vom and Gieng Vooc caves in the central province of Quang Binh’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has been launched.</span> <p><span>Provincial authorities have allowed Viet Hung Trading and Tourism JSC to pilot the tourism product.   </span></p> <p><span><em>Vom Cave</em></span></p> <p><span>According to the company, they have prepared tour guides and equipment for the service. Travellers can experience a one-day or two-day tour, crossing streams and camping overnight in the forest and exploring stunning caves with diverse fauna and flora.</span></p> <p><span>Vom Cave is about four kilometres from the Ho Chi Minh Highway, and features a large entrance and cave. </span></p> <p><span><em>Gieng Vooc Cave (Photo by Phong Nha Discovery)</em></span></p> <p><span>Inside the cave is a sinkhole and an underground stream which runs to the Chay River.</span></p> <p><span>Gieng Vooc Cave is 400 metres long, with streams and four lakes within it. Although the cave is short, it features spectacular stalactites.</span></p> <p><span>The sinkhole <span>photo by Phong Nha Discovery)</span></span></p> <p><span>Spectacular stalactites  (photo by Phong Nha Discovery)</span></p> <p><span>Quang Binh has a 116.04-km coastline and a 201.87-km border with Laos. Home to a stretch of the Truong Son limestone mountain range, the province is famous for its cave systems, incredible mountain scenery and sprawling beaches. It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and the world’s largest cave Son Doong.</span></p> </div> <br /> New Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave tour launched Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

New Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave tour launched

New Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave tour launched A new tour to explore Vom and Gieng Vooc caves in the central province of Quang Binh’s Phong Nha-Ke...

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Night food street to open at HCM City wharf

Night food street to open at HCM City wharf <div> <p><span>HCM City authorities have allowed the operation of tourist river bus and night food street services at Bach Dang Wharf on the Saigon River.</span></p> <p><span>Bach Dang Wharf recently resumed operations after being closed for a year for improvements. This is part of Bach Dang Wharf Park planning project by SaigonTourist. </span></p> <p><span><em>Bach Dang Wharf</em></span></p> <p><span>Under the project, District 1 will be connected to Thu Thiem new urban area in District 2 via two bridges over the Saigon River. Meanwhile, underground parking lots and shopping centres on Ton Duc Thang and Ham Nghi Street will be linked to metro stations.</span></p> <p><span>The project implementation has to preserve historical sites, including Tran Hung Dao Statue and Thu Ngu flagpole.</span></p> <p><span>According to the HCM City plan on developing waterway tourism products for the period 2017-2020, Bach Dang will become the central tourism pier.</span></p> </div> <br /> Night food street to open at HCM City wharf Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Night food street to open at HCM City wharf

Night food street to open at HCM City wharf HCM City authorities have allowed the operation of tourist river bus and night food street serv...

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Exploring the Hang Kia valley in Hoa Binh province

Exploring the Hang Kia valley in Hoa Binh province <div> <p>The Hang Kia valley regularly attracts a large number of visitors. Its moderate climate gives scenic views and allows beautiful flowers to grow throughout the year. The Hang Kia commune is located next to Moc Chau’s plateau. The homestay of local Mong people including local Mong girl Sung Y Mua. Ethnic Mong girls perform their traditional dances. Visitors can enjoy an authentic experience by making hand made products with ethnic Mong people. The winding roads in the Hang Kia valley. Visitors have the chance to immerse themselves in the local life of Mong people. The Hang Kia – Pa Co Nature Reserve is located at an average altitude of 800 to 900 meters above sea level with its highest point reaching 1,223 meters. It has two mountain ranges, Xa Linh and Luong Xa, which have created several valleys, inhabited by a large number of residents. Visitors pose with embroidery made with local Mong people.</p> <div> <div> <div><br /> Exploring the Hang Kia valley in Hoa Binh province Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br /> <table> <tr> <td><em><span>The Hang Kia valley regularly attracts a large number of visitors. Its moderate climate gives scenic views and allows beautiful flowers to grow throughout the year.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The Hang Kia commune is located next to Moc Chau’s plateau.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The homestay of local Mong people including local Mong girl Sung Y Mua.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Ethnic Mong girls perform their traditional dances.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Visitors can enjoy an authentic experience by making hand made products with ethnic Mong people.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The winding roads in the Hang Kia valley.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Visitors have the chance to immerse themselves in the local life of Mong people.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>   <em>The Hang Kia – Pa Co Nature Reserve is located at an average altitude of 800 to 900 meters above sea level with its highest point reaching 1,223 meters. It has two mountain ranges, Xa Linh and Luong Xa, which have created several valleys, inhabited by a large number of residents.</em></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Visitors pose with embroidery made with local Mong people. </span></em></td> </tr> </table> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Exploring the Hang Kia valley in Hoa Binh province

Exploring the Hang Kia valley in Hoa Binh province The Hang Kia valley regularly attracts a large number of visitors. Its moderate climate ...

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The Great Wall of Vietnam hugs a mountain range – VnExpress International

The Great Wall of Vietnam hugs a mountain range – VnExpress International <div> <div> <div><a><span>Back to English</span></a> <a><span>Comments</span></a></div> </div> <div> <div> <div><a>Travel</a> – October 25, 2018 | 10:06 am GMT+7</div> </div> </div> <div> <h3><span><br /></span></h3> </div> <div> <h2><span>A recently renovated path along the mountains in Quang Ninh Province offers vistas to remember in all seasons.</span></h2> </div> <div> <p>The path, named “The Dinosaur’s Spinal” which leads to landmark 1305 in the rural district of Binh Lieu, the highest point of Quang Ninh’s border, is famous for the dangerous terrain it traverses and known as one of hardest mountain roads to conquer in northern Vietnam.</p> </div> <div> <p>As it gained popularity among tourists and trekkers, a 1.8km long stairway with 2000 steps was built to attract and facilitate more visitors. </p> </div> <div> <p>The path used to be called the Great Wall of Vietnam because it is situated on the border patrol route between Vietnam and China. It offers magnificent views of cloud-capped mountains. </p> </div> <div> <p>Although the stairway is not officially open yet, many curious tourists visit the place to take photos and go on a long walk. The raw, untouched beauty that one can see and enjoy while taking this path makes it an incomparable destination in Vietnam.</p> </div> <div> <p>Binh Lieu presents different facets of natural beauty in each season. Spring’s the time when the flowers bloom; in summer, terraced fields come to play. </p> </div> <div> <p>In autumn, the vetiver grass on the either side of the mountain range rise and bloom, and watching them blow in the breeze is a calming, soothing experience. In the winter, it gets cold and wears a barren look that is also arresting in its beauty.</p> </div> <div> <p>Over the past two years, the number of people visiting Binh Lieu has increased significantly. But there is no parking spot here, and people have to guard against motorbike theft, some reports say.</p> <p><span><b><i>Story by Hung Truong</i></b></span></p> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div><strong>Comments</strong> (<label>0</label>)</div> <div><a>Latest first</a> | <a>Highest rated</a></div> <div>Latest firstHighest rated</div> </div> </div> <div> <div><a>View more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <h2><span>Read more</span></h2> <div> <ul> <li> <div> <h3><a>A vintage railway station stays on the beaten track</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Da Lat beckons: Now is best time to visit Vietnam’s ‘Little Paris’</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Million dollar views for two bucks in north Vietnam</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Vietnam extends e-visa policy for foreign tourists until 2021</a></h3> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <br /> The Great Wall of Vietnam hugs a mountain range – VnExpress International Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

The Great Wall of Vietnam hugs a mountain range – VnExpress International

The Great Wall of Vietnam hugs a mountain range – VnExpress International Back to English Comments Travel – October 25, 2018 | 10:06...

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Quang Binh offers new tours to explore Vom, Gieng Vooc caves

Quang Binh offers new tours to explore Vom, Gieng Vooc caves <div> <div><span>Vom and Gieng Vooc caves own stunning limestone stalactite systems (Phto: baoquangbinh.vn)</span></div> <p><strong>Quang Binh (VNA)</strong> – The central province of Quang Binh on October 24 introduced its new tourism product of exploring Vom and Gieng Vooc caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.</p> <p>Addressing the launching ceremony, Viet Hung, Director of Viet Hung Trading and Tourism JSC – the provider of the product, said the company has prepared tour guides and equipment to serve tourists.</p> <p>Tourists can choose a one-day or two-day tour, crossing streams and camping overnight in the forest and exploring stunning caves with diverse fauna and flora species.</p> <p>Vom cave is about 4km from the Ho Chi Minh Highway, and features a large entrance and cave.</p> <p>Inside the cave is a sinkhole and an underground stream which runs to the Chay River.</p> <p>Gieng Vooc Cave is 400 metres long, with streams and four lakes within it. Although the cave is short, it features beautiful and spectacular stalactites.</p> <p>Quang Binh has a 116.04-km coastline and a 201.87-km border with Laos. Home to a stretch of the Truong Son limestone mountain range, the province is famous for its cave systems, incredible mountain scenery and sprawling beaches. It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and the world’s largest cave Son Doong.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Quang Binh offers new tours to explore Vom, Gieng Vooc caves Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Quang Binh offers new tours to explore Vom, Gieng Vooc caves

Quang Binh offers new tours to explore Vom, Gieng Vooc caves Vom and Gieng Vooc caves own stunning limestone stalactite systems (Phto: baoq...

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Smart tourism portal VTV Travel to be launched this December

Smart tourism portal VTV Travel to be launched this December <div> <p>The launch of the portal was made under a a cooperation agreement signed between the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Vietnam Television, Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group, and Nam Viet Corp, on October 23.</p> <p>The move also aimed to realise VTV’s roadmap on digitalisation and digital content services on the digital platform.</p> <p>Accordingly, VTV Travel will be developed alongside the launch of a VTV Travel app, featuring a portal at the address of http://bit.ly/2R5URp8 for Vietnamese language and http://bit.ly/2q8ePE9 for English language, and the establishment of a customer service switchboard 1039 to support customers.</p> <p>The portal will help visitors get access to a database on tourist destinations and videos on tourism promotion of localities and regions across Vietnam, while keeping users updated on necessary tourist information based on their shared current location.</p> <p>Under the agreement, Viettel will help to build and complete a tourism ecosystem with numerous services, apps and functions, such as a payment system, and telecom and internet services, in order to assist foreign visitors while travelling to Vietnam and to support Vietnamese nationals travelling abroad.</p> <p>At the launch ceremony, a contest on seeking slogan for the VTV channel was launched with the highest prize worth up to VND20 million.</p> </div> <br /> Smart tourism portal VTV Travel to be launched this December Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Smart tourism portal VTV Travel to be launched this December

Smart tourism portal VTV Travel to be launched this December The launch of the portal was made under a a cooperation agreement signed betwe...

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Vietjet Air offers 2 million promotional tickets from 0VND

Vietjet Air offers 2 million promotional tickets from 0VND <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The tickets will be available on the airline’s website, on smartphones at m.vietjetair.com, or on their facebook page at <a>www.facebook.com/vietjetvietnam</a>. Passengers have a range of payment options such as popular credit cards like Visa, Master, AMEX, JCB, KCP, UnionPay and ATM cards of 34 major banks in Vietnam.</p> <p><span>Following the “Consumer Airline” model, Vietjet has consistently expanded by adding new routes, added new aircraft and invested in modern technologies to bring added-value products and services to customers.</span></p> <p><span>At present, Vietjet operates the latest generation airline model with low costs and diverse services for passengers. The airline now operates 60 aircraft A320 and A321 types, undertaking more than 385 flights per day and carrying over 65 million of passengers with 101 air routes to destinations in Vietnam and international destinations all over Asia such as Hong Kong, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Cambodia.           </span></p> <p>Vietjet has ambitious plans to develop its network across the Asia-Pacific region and will continue to expand air routes in the region. It has also signed contracts to purchase new, modern aircraft from the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers.</p> </div> <br /> Vietjet Air offers 2 million promotional tickets from 0VND Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietjet Air offers 2 million promotional tickets from 0VND

Vietjet Air offers 2 million promotional tickets from 0VND The tickets will be available on the airline’s website, on smartphones ...

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Paradise lost: Tourist spots in danger of being loved to death

Paradise lost: Tourist spots in danger of being loved to death <div> <p>MANILA: The Philippines’ most famous resort island Boracay re-opens Friday (Oct 26) after a six-month clean-up intended to fix the damage done by unrestrained mass tourism.</p> <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Made famous by the 2000 movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay on the western Thai island of Koh Phi Phi Ley is now a case study in the ruinous costs of runaway tourism. (Photo: AFP/Lillian Suwanrumpha)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Here are some other global hotspots that authorities have moved to protect:</p> <p><strong>BALI, INDONESIA</strong></p> <p>Officials on the holiday island, Indonesia’s top tourist destination, declared a “garbage emergency” last year after the palm-fringed Kuta beach was swallowed up by mountains of trash.</p> <p>Indonesia, second only to China as the world’s biggest contributor to marine debris, deployed 700 cleaners and 35 trucks to remove roughly 100 tonnes of debris each day from Kuta and two other popular beaches to a nearby landfill.</p> <p><strong>EASTER ISLAND, CHILE</strong></p> <p>Known for its 900-odd human figures standing up to 10m tall, the isolated Pacific island severely curtailed visitor numbers in August this year due to concerns over the remote Chilean territory’s environmental sustainability.</p> <p>Tourist stays on the island, believed to have been settled by the Rapa Nui people around the 12th century, were cut to 30 days from 90, after the population – along with the crime rate – doubled in a few decades.</p> <p>Those who wish to live on the island are now required to be a parent, partner or child of the Rapa Nui people.</p> <p><strong>DUBROVNIK, CROATIA</strong></p> <p>Dubrovnik, which boasts an old walled city, saw cruise ship arrivals shoot through the roof after it was used as a backdrop in the smash television drama series Game Of Thrones, causing congestion as tourists made a beeline for the shoot locales.</p> <p>Mayor Mato Frankovic told AFP the authorities plan to cut cruise ship numbers coming into the Adriatic port, while deploying cameras to count the number of people entering the old town.</p> <p><strong>VENICE AND FLORENCE, ITALY</strong></p> <p>Venice authorities are trialling a system that forces visitors to make a reservation if they want to go to the popular Saint Mark’s Square during peak hours.</p> <p>They are also fining tourists €500 (US$585) for bathing or having picnics in the city’s famous canals.</p> <p>In Florence, officials have resorted to hosing down public spots such as church steps where many visitors congregate to eat picnics. This aims to prevent people from sitting on the wet pavement.</p> <p><strong>MACHU PICCHU, PERU</strong></p> <p>Peruvian authorities increased surveillance at the 15th-century Incan citadel high in the Andes mountain range in 2014 as nude photos and streaking became increasingly common.</p> <p>Tourists have since at least 2013 been posting their naked selfies on social media, which the government described as a “disrespectful act” aimed solely at getting attention.</p> <p><strong>MAYA BAY, THAILAND</strong></p> <p>The glittering Thai bay immortalised in the movie The Beach was closed indefinitely on Oct 1 to allow it to recover from the impact of mass tourism, after a four-month respite failed to ease beach erosion and pollution.</p> <p>About 5,000 tourists had arrived by boat each day to the beach framed by limestone cliffs that was made famous by the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio.</p> </div> <p>AFP</p> </div> </div> <br /> Paradise lost: Tourist spots in danger of being loved to death Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Paradise lost: Tourist spots in danger of being loved to death

Paradise lost: Tourist spots in danger of being loved to death MANILA: The Philippines’ most famous resort island Boracay re-opens Friday (...

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Tourists can learn about HCM City with QR codes

Tourists can learn about HCM City with QR codes <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>A source from the HCM City Department of Tourism stated that the department will conduct a QR code scanning pilot program at 20 tourist sites in the city, mainly free of charge.</p> <p>There will be a separate QR code for each tourist attraction, so all relevant details will appear when visitors use their smartphones to scan their codes. When a code is scanned, a list of tourist sites appears, making it easy for tourists to plan their next site visit in HCM City.</p> <p>Nguyen Thi Thanh Thao, head of the Information Technology Division under the HCM City Department of Tourism, said that the QR code concept was the best solution for travelers to the city who are not accompanied by a tour guide.</p> <p>Tourists often access the internet for information related to popular sites such as Ben Thanh Market or Mong Bridge and find it difficult to gauge whether the information is correct. Thus, getting accurate information will become more convenient with the QR codes. Besides this, tourists will learn about the interiors of some sites that they cannot enter.</p> <p>“The department is working with application writers to conduct the pilot program in November,” Thao said, adding that the program is scheduled to cover all tourist attractions citywide at the start of 2019.</p> <p>The program is part of HCMC’s smart-tourism development strategy. The department had earlier launched an application running on Android and IOS operating systems in two languages, English and Vietnamese, allowing tourists to look for information on the city’s tourism attractions.</p> </div> <br /> Tourists can learn about HCM City with QR codes Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Tourists can learn about HCM City with QR codes

Tourists can learn about HCM City with QR codes A source from the HCM City Department of Tourism stated that the department will c...

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Homestay tourism boosts income of Mong ethnic people

Homestay tourism boosts income of Mong ethnic people <div> <p>Located at an altitude of 1,000 meters above seas level, Then Pa pine forest has now become an eco-tourism site, featuring Mong ethnic culture. Although the infrastructure of the site has yet to be completed, it still welcomed more than 6,000 domestic and foreign tourists in more than one month. The entrance of the village is decorated with colorful pinwheels. The ethnic people borrowed VND100 million from the bank for investment. They were also granted VND150 million by the local authority. Almost all of the building materials are collected from the forest. The project aims to be as eco-friendly as possible. Then Pa pine forest eco-tourism site has cool weather. A simple stilt house is built for a couple. This is a idyllic place for couples to take a unique romantic vacation. Since the tourism model is deployed, households providing homestay services have more income. The site attracts more than 100 tourists each day. The sanitation and fire safety works are the top priority. Tourists are interested in embroidery art of ethnic women. It is also an ideal destination for couples to take wedding photos.</p> <div> <div> <div><br /> Homestay tourism boosts income of Mong ethnic people Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br /> <table> <tr> <td><em><span>Located at an altitude of 1,000 meters above seas level, Then Pa pine forest has now become an eco-tourism site, featuring Mong ethnic culture.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Although the infrastructure of the site has yet to be completed, it still welcomed more than 6,000 domestic and foreign tourists in more than one month.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The entrance of the village is decorated with colorful pinwheels.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The ethnic people borrowed VND100 million from the bank for investment. They were also granted VND150 million by the local authority.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Almost all of the building materials are collected from the forest. The project aims to be as eco-friendly as possible.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p><em>Then Pa pine forest eco-tourism site has cool weather.</em></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>A simple stilt house is built for a couple. This is a idyllic place for couples to take a unique romantic vacation.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Since the tourism model is deployed, households providing homestay services have more income. The site attracts more than 100 tourists each day.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The sanitation and fire safety works are the top priority.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Tourists are interested in embroidery art of ethnic women.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>It is also an ideal destination for couples to take wedding photos.</span></em></td> </tr> </table> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Homestay tourism boosts income of Mong ethnic people

Homestay tourism boosts income of Mong ethnic people Located at an altitude of 1,000 meters above seas level, Then Pa pine forest has now b...

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Exploring the majestic Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa

Exploring the majestic Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa <div> <p>Tay Do, or the Ho Dynasty citadel, is located in the hamlets of Tay Giai and Xuan Giai in Vinh Tien commune, Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province. The Tay Do citadel’s unique architecture and design were built with painstaking precision. The citadel has a total perimeter of 3,513 metres and covers an area of 769,086 square metres. The Ho Dynasty citadel has four gates in total. Pictured is the southern gate of the citadel. According to archaeologists, an excavation of the southern gate unearthed a bluestone road connecting the entrance with the Nam Giao worship area in Don Son mountain. Pictured is the fortification wall that lies just outside the western gate. The eastern gate as it stands today. The fortified wall of the eastern gate was made of large carved stones placed on top of each other without any form of cement. Two stone dragons were discovered in 1937 and placed outside the citadel. Many experts believe that the Tay Do citadel is one of the largest and most unique citadels in all of Southeast Asia and one of few remaining stone fortifications in the world. A section of the fortification wall was broken on the northern wall. On June 27, 2011, the Ho Dynasty Citadel was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. In 2012, the Prime Minister signed a declaration to recognize the Ho Dynasty Citadel as a national relic.</p> <div> <div> <div><br /> Exploring the majestic Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br /> <table> <tr> <td><em><span>Tay Do, or the Ho Dynasty citadel, is located in the hamlets of Tay Giai and Xuan Giai in Vinh Tien commune, Vinh Loc district, Thanh Hoa province.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The Tay Do citadel’s unique architecture and design were built with painstaking precision.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The citadel has a total perimeter of 3,513 metres and covers an area of 769,086 square metres.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The Ho Dynasty citadel has four gates in total. Pictured is the southern gate of the citadel.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>According to archaeologists, an excavation of the southern gate unearthed a bluestone road connecting the entrance with the Nam Giao worship area in Don Son mountain. Pictured is the fortification wall that lies just outside the western gate. </span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The eastern gate as it stands today.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The fortified wall of the eastern gate was made of large carved stones placed on top of each other without any form of cement.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Two stone dragons were discovered in 1937 and placed outside the citadel.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Many experts believe that the Tay Do citadel is one of the largest and most unique citadels in all of Southeast Asia and one of few remaining stone fortifications in the world.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>A section of the fortification wall was broken on the northern wall.</span></em></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>On June 27, 2011, the Ho Dynasty Citadel was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. In 2012, the Prime Minister signed a declaration to recognize the Ho Dynasty Citadel as a national relic.</span></em></td> </tr> </table> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Exploring the majestic Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa

Exploring the majestic Ho Dynasty Citadel in Thanh Hoa Tay Do, or the Ho Dynasty citadel, is located in the hamlets of Tay Giai and Xuan Gi...

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Khanh Hoa gears up preparations for Sea Festival

Khanh Hoa gears up preparations for Sea Festival <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The festival will include a wide range of culture, art, sport and tourism activities, aiming to promote the cultural value of Vietnam, particularly Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa.The event is also part of activities in response to the National Tourism Year 2019 hosted by Khanh Hoa province.</p> <p>The opening ceremony of the Festival and the National Tourism Year 2019 is scheduled to be held on the evening of May 11 while the closing ceremony will be on May 14.</p> <p>Nguyen Dac Tai, vice chairman of the Khanh Hoa People’s Committee, said after eight successful festivals, the organizing board will further improve the quality of the event in order to leave good impression on both domestic and foreign visitors while promoting the province’s economic, culture and tourism potential as well as its sustainable development prospects.</p> </div> <br /> Khanh Hoa gears up preparations for Sea Festival Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Khanh Hoa gears up preparations for Sea Festival

Khanh Hoa gears up preparations for Sea Festival The festival will include a wide range of culture, art, sport and tourism activit...

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Staff shortage in central provinces’ tourism industry

Staff shortage in central provinces’ tourism industry <div> <div> <div>Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism in Quang Nam Province Le Ngoc Tuong said that by end of 2017, there was around 13,000 employments in the province’s tourism sector aged from 26 to 45 making up 65 percent.</div> <div>Of them, 10,000 people work  for hotels & apartments while 1,000 others work in travel agencies and transportation and 2,000 people work in amusement parks, restaurants and other services.</div> <div>As per prediction, the tourism sector must recruit around 20,000 direct human resources and 40,000 indirect staffs to meet the province’s growth in demand for personnel by 2020. Accordingly, in the period 2018-2020, it is expected nearly 11,300 people will be recruited to work as receptionists, cook and safeguards in restaurants.</div> <div>Likewise, travel agent needs 880 people accounting for 7 percent of the whole employment.</div> <div>Worse, the tourism industry in the central province of Quang Nam is short of qualified and skilled staffs and presenters at historic sites who have little knowledge of history and foreign languages especially Japanese, Korean, Thai and Chinese.</div> <div>Therefore, there is a fierce competition between hotels and accommodations.</div> <div>By June, 2018, the industry employed 32,000 staffs, said Deputy Director of Da Nang Department of Tourism Nguyen Xuan Binh. As per the tourism plan by 2020, Da Nang will receive 8.5 million visitors and the industry is required to have over 35,000 direct employment.</div> <div>Though tens of tourism training institutions provide 2,000 workers in the industry annually but it can’t meet demand and these graduates even must be re-trained.</div> <div>Within 10 years, Quang Nam tourism sector has grown by 15 percent – 18 percent. For instance, in 2017, nearly 5.35 million holiday-makers arrived in Quang Nam Province. Tourist arrivals in the first nine months of 2018 increased by 22.9 percent to 5.4 million. The province has 90 travel companies with 595 accommodations to provide 12,139 rooms for visitors.</div> <div>It is projected that when Nam Hoi An or Vinpearl put into operation, around 6,000 skilled tourism workers will be recruited.</div> <div>Mr. Binh said Da Nang City is supplying 29,000 accommodations; yet, graduates from training facilities can’t also satisfy the demand. Not only the Central Vietnam but also all provinces across the country are facing the problem of human resource.</div> <div>Subsequently, Deputy Director of Quang Nam Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs Nguyen Thuy said that it needs to re-structure schools and update the facilities to train more personnel for the industry.</div> <p>By NGOC PHUC – Translated by UYEN PHUONG</p> </div> <div> <h3>Tags:</h3> <div><a>Staff shortage</a> <a>central provinces</a> <a>tourism industry</a> <a>Quang Nam</a> <a>Quang Ngai</a> <a>Da Nang</a></div> </div> </div> <br /> Staff shortage in central provinces’ tourism industry Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Staff shortage in central provinces’ tourism industry

Staff shortage in central provinces’ tourism industry Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism in Quang Nam Provinc...

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Ninh Binh targets higher tourism quality

Ninh Binh targets higher tourism quality <div> <div><span>The Trang An Landscape Complex was recognised by UNESCO as the world’s mixed cultural and natural heritage, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Ninh Binh (VNA)</strong> – The northern province of Ninh Binh has employed an array of synchronous measures in an effort to improve the quality of tourism services, especially at the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism site in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district.</p> <p>The provincial Tourism Department has closely coordinated with relevant departments and agencies, the People’s Committees of Hoa Lu district and Ninh Hai commune, and the management board of the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism site to encourage organisations and individuals to observe regulations in the sector.</p> <p>Besides, communication work has been stepped up to raise public awareness of preserving and promoting values of the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO-recognised Cultural and Natural Heritage Site.</p> <p>Regulations of the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism site have also been popularised among tourism service providers and visitors.</p> <p>The management board of the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism site has promptly planted boards of regulations in both English and Vietnamese at the Dong Gung parking area, the Dinh Cac Wharf and the Hang Ba (Ba Cave) area.</p> <p>Apart from increasing security guards and inspectors of tourism activities from the Dinh Cac Wharf to the Hang Ba area, the board has set up a hotline to receive and handle feedback of tourists.</p> <p>The provincial Tourism Department has assigned the tourist support centre to team up with relevant units to assist vacationers, especially during holidays and weekends.</p> <p>In the first nine months of this year, the centre has provided help for 76,559 visitors, including 25,305 in the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism site.</p> <p>According to the department, between January and September, Ninh Binh welcomed more than 6.3 million tourists, completing 88.5 percent of the yearly target and up 4.9 percent year-on-year. During the period, the province earned some 2.4 trillion VND (103.2 million USD) from the sector, representing a year-on-year rise of 18.9 percent.</p> <p>Ninh Binh served more than 7 million visitors and pocketed over 2.5 trillion VND (107 million USD) from this industry in 2017, respectively rising by 9.5 percent and 43 percent year-on-year.</p> <p>The locality is striving to become one of the tourism hubs of Vietnam by 2020 and to turn tourism into a spearhead industry of the local economy by 2030.</p> <p>It looks to attract 1 million foreign arrivals and 7 million domestic visitors by 2020, 1.5 million and 9 million by 2025, and 2.1 million and 11.2 million by 2030. Meanwhile, tourism revenue is expected at over 4.2 trillion VND (179.7 million USD), 11.8 trillion VND (504.8 million USD), and 27 trillion VND (1.15 billion USD), respectively.</p> <p>The Trang An Landscape Complex was recognised by UNESCO as the world’s mixed cultural and natural heritage, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia.</p> <p>In UNESCO’s words, “Trang An is a resplendent complex of limestone karst peaks which are permeated with valleys, including submerged ones, and surrounded by steep, almost vertical cliffs,” nestling on the southern shore of the Red River Delta.</p> <p>Archaeological traces of human activity dating back thousands of years have been found within the complex.</p> <p>The 12,250-hectare complex boasts several nationally recognised sites like the Trang An ecotourism site and Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s capital in the 10th and 11th centuries. The area also has many temples, pagodas, paddy fields, villages and other sacred sites.</p> <p>It is home to about 500 flora species, 73 species of birds and 41 species of other animals and has a diverse ecosystem.</p> <p>Together with other famous sites in the province such as Tam Coc Grottos and Van Long Lagoon, the Trang An Landscape Complex was also used as a location for the movie Kong: Skull Island, one of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters of 2017.<br /> The locations opened to tourists last April.</p> <p>Ninh Binh province has been listed as one of the 50 best spots to visit in 2018 by US travel site Insider. -VNA</p> </div> <br /> Ninh Binh targets higher tourism quality Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Ninh Binh targets higher tourism quality

Ninh Binh targets higher tourism quality The Trang An Landscape Complex was recognised by UNESCO as the world’s mixed cultural and natural ...

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Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award <div> <div> <p>Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Paradise Cruises, and the Hanoi-based French restaurant Clover.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>The Cau Vang (Golden Bridge) in Da Nang city</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>With an impressive design resembling a yellow ribbon on the hands of God, at a height of 1,400m on the Ba Na peak, the Golden Bridge has quickly become the most attractive destination among others of Da Nang city since its official launch in early June 2018.</p> <p>As part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort run by Sun Group, the bridge is considered a strong stimulus for the development of Da Nang city’s tourism sector.</p> <p><em><strong>Translated by Chung Anh</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Para...

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Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Paradise Cruises, and the Hanoi-based French restaurant Clover at Ngoc Thuy.</p> <p>With an impressive design resembling a yellow ribbon on the hands of a god, at a height of 1,400m on Ba Na peak, the Golden Bridge has quickly become the most attractive destination in Da Nang since its official launch in early June 2018.</p> <p>The bridge’s reputation has even surpassed Vietnam’s borders, praised by prestigious news agencies, newspapers and social networks as one of the world’s most spectacular walking bridges.</p> <p>As part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort run by Sun Group, the birth of the bridge is considered a strong stimulus for Da Nang tourism.</p> <p>Statistics from the central coastal city’s Tourism Department showed that in the first nine months this year, the total number of visitors to Da Nang was estimated at over 6.5 million arrivals, an increase of 27.7% over the same period last year. Of which, half of them have travelled to Da Nang because of the attraction of the famous bridge.</p> <p>The Guide Awards is a prestigious award organised by the Vietnam Economic Times and The Guide magazine. Since its launch in 1999, the Guide Awards has become one of the most prestigious travel awards and is sponsored by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations, and the Vietnam Economic Science.</p> <p>Under the theme “Tourism and Digital Transformation”, the Guide Awards 2018 honoured 110 brands.</p> </div> <br /> Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC,...

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Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The site boasts diverse ethnic cultures reflected in local clothing, house architecture and cuisine. With the growth of homestay services, visitors now have a more intimate way to explore the local culture.</p> <p>Homestay services are becoming popular in Vietnam. Cheap and authentic, this type of tourism draws visitors closer to local life and nature. Moc Chau is a great place to enjoy this kind of experience.</p> <p>Áng village is a prime destination. Last year 100,000 out of 350,000 visitors did a homestay. Local residents have expanded their houses and improved their vegetable and flower gardens to accommodate tourists. Lu Tien Quan was one of the first homestay hosts in the village. Renovated a few months ago, his house can now accommodate 30 people. Over the past months, he has welcomed 1,000 visitors and earned more than US$5,000.</p> <p>Mr. Quan said, “In the past months, we welcomed a large number of visitors Our increased income will be reinvested in upgrading our services.”</p> <p>Doi village, 30 km from Moc Chau district’s center, is a favorite place for tourists fond of Moc Chau tea, one of the best in the country. In 2010, Ha Van Quyet, a resident of Doi village, signed a contract with a travel agency in Hanoi to provide homestay services. Since then, his family has welcomed thousands of visitors who are invited to sample the local food, watch performances by local amateur artists, savor the excellent local tea, and participate in tea harvesting and preparation.</p> <p>Quyet said, “We have learned that tourists love photographing natural landscapes around Moc Chau, eating the local agricultural produce and observing local farming activities. We have built houses on the hillside and in tea production areas to introduce tourists to our specialty.”</p> <p>Hua Tat village in Van Ho commune is another popular destination for homestay tourism in Moc Chau. Gardens of peaches and apricots and beautiful valleys are the local attractions. Mr. Trang A Chu, a Mong local, upgraded his house for homestay but retained its traditional architecture.</p> <p>Built in September last year, the house on stilts with a thatched roof of Trang An Senh has welcomed hundreds of tourists. Guests sleep on the first floor, in a huge dormitory, separated by thin wooden partitions. Comfortable mattresses and mosquito nets guarantee a good night’s sleep. This experience delights tourists in search for unusual adventures.</p> <p>Tourists can spend time with the villagers, sample local cuisine, play folk games, and help with tea production. Nguyen Huu Chinh, a visitor from Hanoi, said, “Things have changed dramatically. The atmosphere is wonderful and people are enthusiastic. I love the city, which has a lot of historical sites recognized as national relics. I love the nature, the local people, and the wonderful homestay service.”</p> <p>Far from the more crowded tourist sites, the small ethnic villages of Moc Chau have kept their authenticity. The traditional houses, lifestyles and cultures of its ethnic minorities make Moc Chau a wonderful place to explore the historical roots of Vietnam. </p> </div> <br /> Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing The site boasts diverse ethnic cu...

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Thanh Hoa announces new community-based tours in Pu Luong

Thanh Hoa announces new community-based tours in Pu Luong <div> <div><span>An eco-tourism site in Thanh Hoa (Source: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Thanh Hoa (VNA)</strong> – A number of community-based tours made their debut in Don hamlet, Thanh Lam commune, Ba Thuoc district of the central province of Thanh Hoa on October 19.</p> <p>Pu Luong is a nature reserve established in 1999 with its area covering Ba Thuoc and Quan Hoa districts. It is considered as a valuable natural reserve for science research, socio-economic and ecotourism development.</p> <p>The tours offer visitors activities to discover local primeval forests, waterfalls, rivers and mountains.</p> <p>They can also participate in traditional festivals of the locality, visit traditional trade villages, enjoy local specialities and experience daily activities of locals, especially those from ethnic minority groups.</p> <p>Visitors can take one-day tours in Pu Luong, or two-day tours across three districts of Ba Thuoc, Quan Hoa and Lang Chanh. There are also tours going cross Hoa Binh province to Ba Thuoc.</p> <p>Chairman of Ba Thuoc district People’s Committee Lo Van Thang said the development of community tourism is hope to assist with poverty reduction, raise income and improve the livelihood of local residents, thus contributing to bolstering the locality’s socio-economic development.</p> <p>He highlighted the significance of the launch of community-based travel tours in the locality, saying that this will help attract more holiday-makers to the locality.</p> <p>Ba Thuoc hopes to create a breakthrough in tourism development, Thang said, adding that the locality has set a goal to welcome 30,000 visitors by 2020, of which about one third being international tourists.</p> <p>In recent years, Ba Thuoc district has focused on upgrading infrastructure in many tourist destinations. It has also enhanced promotion of community tourism, restored many traditional cultural activities, in connection with conserving and developing intangible cultural values and training human resources for the tourism sector.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Thanh Hoa announces new community-based tours in Pu Luong Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Thanh Hoa announces new community-based tours in Pu Luong

Thanh Hoa announces new community-based tours in Pu Luong An eco-tourism site in Thanh Hoa (Source: VNA) Thanh Hoa (VNA) – A number of co...

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Son La Culture – Tourism Week opens in Hanoi

Son La Culture – Tourism Week opens in Hanoi <div> <p>Co-organised by the two locales’ authorities, the event also targets luring more travellers to Son La with unique tourism products imbued with indigenous ethnic identities.</p> <p>The programme features various cultural and sporting activities, such as performances of the Pang A Ban festival by La Ha ethnic minorities, tradition Thai dances and a costumes show by the ethnic Thai, Mong, Dao and Kho Mu people, as well as traditional folk games.</p> <p><em>Specialties of Son La province introduced to Hanoians at the Son La Tourism – Culture Week. (Photo: kinhtedothi.vn)</em></p> <p>Typical products, specialties and souvenir items of Son La tourism are also being introduced at the event, in addition to enacting traditional handicraft activities.</p> <p>The week will last until October 21.</p> </div> <br /> Son La Culture – Tourism Week opens in Hanoi Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Son La Culture – Tourism Week opens in Hanoi

Son La Culture – Tourism Week opens in Hanoi Co-organised by the two locales’ authorities, the event also targets luring more travellers to...

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Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award <div> <div> <p>Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Paradise Cruises, and the Hanoi-based French restaurant Clover.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>The Cau Vang (Golden Bridge) in Da Nang city</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>With an impressive design resembling a yellow ribbon on the hands of God, at a height of 1,400m on the Ba Na peak, the Golden Bridge has quickly become the most attractive destination among others of Da Nang city since its official launch in early June 2018.</p> <p>As part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort run by Sun Group, the bridge is considered a strong stimulus for the development of Da Nang city’s tourism sector.</p> <p><em><strong>Translated by Chung Anh</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award

Da Nang city’s Golden Bridge wins special award Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Para...

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Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC, Azerai Can Tho resort, Paradise Cruises, and the Hanoi-based French restaurant Clover at Ngoc Thuy.</p> <p>With an impressive design resembling a yellow ribbon on the hands of a god, at a height of 1,400m on Ba Na peak, the Golden Bridge has quickly become the most attractive destination in Da Nang since its official launch in early June 2018.</p> <p>The bridge’s reputation has even surpassed Vietnam’s borders, praised by prestigious news agencies, newspapers and social networks as one of the world’s most spectacular walking bridges.</p> <p>As part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort run by Sun Group, the birth of the bridge is considered a strong stimulus for Da Nang tourism.</p> <p>Statistics from the central coastal city’s Tourism Department showed that in the first nine months this year, the total number of visitors to Da Nang was estimated at over 6.5 million arrivals, an increase of 27.7% over the same period last year. Of which, half of them have travelled to Da Nang because of the attraction of the famous bridge.</p> <p>The Guide Awards is a prestigious award organised by the Vietnam Economic Times and The Guide magazine. Since its launch in 1999, the Guide Awards has become one of the most prestigious travel awards and is sponsored by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations, and the Vietnam Economic Science.</p> <p>Under the theme “Tourism and Digital Transformation”, the Guide Awards 2018 honoured 110 brands.</p> </div> <br /> Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018

Da Nang’s Golden Bridge wins special award at The Guide Awards 2018 Among the winners of the awards are also Vietnam Airlines JSC,...

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Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The site boasts diverse ethnic cultures reflected in local clothing, house architecture and cuisine. With the growth of homestay services, visitors now have a more intimate way to explore the local culture.</p> <p>Homestay services are becoming popular in Vietnam. Cheap and authentic, this type of tourism draws visitors closer to local life and nature. Moc Chau is a great place to enjoy this kind of experience.</p> <p>Áng village is a prime destination. Last year 100,000 out of 350,000 visitors did a homestay. Local residents have expanded their houses and improved their vegetable and flower gardens to accommodate tourists. Lu Tien Quan was one of the first homestay hosts in the village. Renovated a few months ago, his house can now accommodate 30 people. Over the past months, he has welcomed 1,000 visitors and earned more than US$5,000.</p> <p>Mr. Quan said, “In the past months, we welcomed a large number of visitors Our increased income will be reinvested in upgrading our services.”</p> <p>Doi village, 30 km from Moc Chau district’s center, is a favorite place for tourists fond of Moc Chau tea, one of the best in the country. In 2010, Ha Van Quyet, a resident of Doi village, signed a contract with a travel agency in Hanoi to provide homestay services. Since then, his family has welcomed thousands of visitors who are invited to sample the local food, watch performances by local amateur artists, savor the excellent local tea, and participate in tea harvesting and preparation.</p> <p>Quyet said, “We have learned that tourists love photographing natural landscapes around Moc Chau, eating the local agricultural produce and observing local farming activities. We have built houses on the hillside and in tea production areas to introduce tourists to our specialty.”</p> <p>Hua Tat village in Van Ho commune is another popular destination for homestay tourism in Moc Chau. Gardens of peaches and apricots and beautiful valleys are the local attractions. Mr. Trang A Chu, a Mong local, upgraded his house for homestay but retained its traditional architecture.</p> <p>Built in September last year, the house on stilts with a thatched roof of Trang An Senh has welcomed hundreds of tourists. Guests sleep on the first floor, in a huge dormitory, separated by thin wooden partitions. Comfortable mattresses and mosquito nets guarantee a good night’s sleep. This experience delights tourists in search for unusual adventures.</p> <p>Tourists can spend time with the villagers, sample local cuisine, play folk games, and help with tea production. Nguyen Huu Chinh, a visitor from Hanoi, said, “Things have changed dramatically. The atmosphere is wonderful and people are enthusiastic. I love the city, which has a lot of historical sites recognized as national relics. I love the nature, the local people, and the wonderful homestay service.”</p> <p>Far from the more crowded tourist sites, the small ethnic villages of Moc Chau have kept their authenticity. The traditional houses, lifestyles and cultures of its ethnic minorities make Moc Chau a wonderful place to explore the historical roots of Vietnam. </p> </div> <br /> Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing

Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing Homestay service makes Moc Chau more appealing The site boasts diverse ethnic cu...

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