December 2015 - Vietnam Breaking News

Hanoi honours 15 outstanding athletes

<p>PANO – The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Hanoi on December 29<sup>th</sup> held a ceremony to honour 15 outstanding athletes of 2015.</p>
<p>This year, Hanoi took the lead in the 7<sup>th</sup> National Physical and Sports Festival, contributing 30% of the athletes and snatching 34.25% of all the gold medals of the Vietnam’s sports delegation at the SEA Games 28 in Singapore.</p>
<div id="attachment_1800295" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZTHV"><img alt="Athlete Dinh Phuong Thanh" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="324" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTHV" width="450" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Athlete Dinh Phuong Thanh</p>
</div>
<p>The sport profession is a special career requiring athletes to work very hard and sacrifice their youth. Meanwhile, the timespan of the job is comparatively short. Therefore, honouring outstanding athletes will encourage generations of athletes to make more efforts, and contributions to the nation.</p>
<p>The outstanding athletes of 2015 are:</p>
<p>1. Pham Phuoc Hung (Gymnastics)</p>
<p>2. Dinh Phuong Thanh (Gymnastics)</p>
<p>3. Do Thi Thao (Athletics)</p>
<p>4. Bui Thi Thu Thao (Athletics)</p>
<p>5. Duong Thuy Vi (Wushu)</p>
<p>6. Loc Thi Dao (Archery)</p>
<p>7. Nguyen Tien Cuong (Archery)</p>
<p>8. Vu Thanh An (International Fencing)</p>
<p>9. Nguyen Thi Le Dung (Fencing)</p>
<p>10. Le Nghia (Archery)</p>
<p>11. Ha Thi Linh (Boxing)</p>
<p>12. Nguyen Thi Huyen Phuong (Boxing)</p>
<p>13. Ha Thi Nguyen (Taekwondo)</p>
<p>14. Vuong Thi Huyen (Weight-lifting)</p>
<p>15. Hoang Quang Trung (Pencak Silat)</p>
<p><b><i>Translated by Huu Duong</i></b></p>
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Hanoi honours 15 outstanding athletes Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTHV" width="200" /><br />

Hanoi honours 15 outstanding athletes

Hanoi honours 15 outstanding athletes

PANO – The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Hanoi on December 29 th held a ceremony to honour 15 outstanding athletes of 2015. ...

Ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015 announced

<p>PANO – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29<sup>th</sup> announced the 10 major cultural, sport and tourism events of the year, voted by 121 journalists from media agencies nationwide.</p>
<p>They are:</p>
<p>1. The special art performance program marking the 70<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the National Day themed “Vietnam – Aspiration for Peace”;</p>
<div id="attachment_1800302" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOXwQ"><img alt="The special art performance program marking the 70th anniversary of the National Day" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="254" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOXwQ" width="450" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">The special art performance program marking the 70th anniversary of the National Day</p>
</div>
<p>2. The largest-ever exhibition on 70 years of social-economic achievements;</p>
<p>3. The recognition of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh as the world natural heritage for the second time by UNESCO;</p>
<p>4. UNESCO inscribed the Tug of War rituals and games, the traditional practices observed in Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines and Cambodia, in the list of human intangible cultural heritage.</p>
<p>5. The State’s first conferment of the Emeritus Artisan title on artisans in the intangible cultural heritage sector, considering them living treasures of humanity.</p>
<p>6. “Yellow flowers on the green grass” became the first film co-produced by the public and private sectors to reap success in terms of artistic quality, social effect and economic efficiency.</p>
<p>7. The Government of Vietnam issued resolutions on exempting visa for citizens from six European countries namely the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Belarus, making breakthroughs for development of Vietnamese tourism.</p>
<p>8. The ABC News Television Station of the US staged a live Good Morning America program from Son Doong and En caves in the central province of Quang Binh with a length of 90 minutes.</p>
<p>9. Vietnam’s sports reaped great success at the SEA Games 28 when 87% of the sports events brought gold medals.</p>
<p>10. Anh Vien was elected one of the five best swimmers in Asia and nicknamed “Steel Girl” by international media.</p>
<p><b><i>Translated by Chung Anh</i></b></p>
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Ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015 announced Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOXwQ" width="200" /><br />

Ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015 announced

Ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015 announced

PANO – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 th announced the 10 major cultural, sport and tourism events of the year,...

Heaven’s Melody

<p><strong>Live with <em>Then</em>, Die with <em>Then</em>, follow it to Heaven</strong></p>
<p>As perceived by these ethnic people, <em>Then</em> means “Heaven”. The singing of Then in worshipping rites is a form of story telling through folk singing, narrating human journeys to Heaven to ask the Heaven King to bestow luck and a happy life on them.</p>
<p>According to folk music researchers, <em>Then</em> singing constitutes a form of cultural and spiritual activities and also a type of folk music. <em>Then</em> is composed of nearly 4,000 verses, reflecting all aspects of life, from daily-life activities, hamlets, living creatures to love, funerals, weddings and corvee labour. The <em>Then</em> worshipping ritual is actually an inspiring artistic show, making audiences think deeply of a supernatural world. Through comprehensive studies of traditional <em>Then</em> rites, one can clearly see the outlook on life, the world outlook and cultural identities of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic minorities.</p>
<p>For a more comprehensive look at <em>Then</em> singing, we had to travel more than 300km to the mountain district of Chiem Hoa, Tuyen Quang Province, which is considered the cradle of particular and attractive <em>Then</em> tunes of the Tay people.</p>
<div id="attachment_1800383" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOXgw"><img alt="In the cultural and spiritual life of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic groups," class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="313" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfn" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">In the cultural and spiritual life of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic groups,</p>
</div>
<p>the singing of Then in worshipping rites is a form of story telling through folk singing,</p>
<p>narrating human journeys to Heaven to asking the Heaven King to bestow luck and a happy life on them.</p>
<p>At Nong Van Sep’s house in Ha Thoi Hamlet, we had a chance to attend a ritual called “Cau Khoan”, a ritual praying for parents’ good health and longevity strictly according to the Tay ancient customs. The rite was presided over by Cao Xiem, a well-known sorcerer. To the Tay, people who preside over <em>Then</em> rituals are referred to as “Ong <em>Then</em>” (Mr. <em>Then</em>) or “Ba <em>Then</em>” (Mrs. <em>Then</em>), who were dispatched from Heaven, acting as the medium between earthly man and deities.</p>
<p>The “Cau Khoan” rite at Nong Van Sep’s house was crowded with people like a hamlet festival attended by almost all hamlet dwellers packed inside and outside his five-partitioned house on stilts.</p>
<p>In a red dress and hat and “Dan tinh” (two- string musical instrument) in hand, sorcerer Cao Xiem opened the “Cau Khoan” ritual with an ancient <em>Then</em> tune. Amidst the incense smoke, his vocals and musical sounds inspired people into a strange mysterious world totally different from the earthly world, where children and grandchildren are making a long journey to Heaven to ask the Heaven King to bestow good health and longevity on their parents and grand-parents.</p>
<p>The Tay, according to sorcerer Cao Xiem, consider <em>Then</em> their own cultural stream, they confide into <em>Then</em> tunes all their thinking related to life such as the struggle for their survival, their sneaking feelings and deeply buried thoughts, their wishes, aspirations and confidence….</p>
<p>As a result, <em>Then</em> is the spiritual strength, helping people surmount all difficulties, ailments, natural calamities and enemy sabotage for a better life. For the Tay, the <em>Then</em> tunes are, therefore, deeply attached to them from the time they are born to the time they die.</p>
<p>According to researchers, as it originates from daily labour, <em>Then</em> contains values of the Tay time-honoured cultural traditions of profound humane nature. It not only deals with the question of belief but also contains human admonitions, moral praises, criticizes bad habits and practices, expresses love between man and woman, love for nature and love for the homeland. For such reasons, <em>Then</em> is an art genre, containing poems, singing, music and dancing, awakening the beauty of the human soul as well as the noble aesthetic and humane values inside people. With such peculiar cultural values, the <em>Then</em> singing ritual of the Tay in Tuyen Quang Province has been recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.</p>
<p><strong><em>Then</em> in Contemporary Life</strong></p>
<p>Currently, besides different forms of ceremonial <em>Then</em> singing with a system of ancient <em>Then</em> songs, there has appeared a form of new reformed on the basis of ancient melodies. According to sorcerer Cao Xiem, the reformed <em>Then</em> songs have gradually freed themselves from creed activities to be an independent form of folk songs, a form of community art performances. This is considered the progress and cleverness of Tay people and also an inevitable change in the course of developing and preserving the traditional cultures of various ethnic groups today.</p>
<p>To further inquire into this matter, we met with artisan Ha Thuan in Tan An Commune, Chiem Hoa District, Tuyen Quang Province. He is the first Tay to be conferred with the title of folk artisan for his great contributions to the socialisation of Then tunes.</p>
<p>Apart from collecting and recording ancient <em>Then</em> tunes sung by older people in the hamlet, he has composed more than 40 new <em>Then</em> tunes, which are very dear to people while also carrying the breath of their life. Free-of-charge <em>Then</em> classes organised at his stilt house lay the foundations for the emergence of various mass Then clubs inside and outside Chiem Hoa District at present.</p>
<p>Ma Van Doan, Director of the <em>Then</em> club in Tan An Commune, said that his club has been constantly maintained with 40 – 50 regular members, who are from 5 to 85 years old, after it was set up 20 years ago.</p>
<div id="attachment_1800379" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><em><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBc"><img alt="Four daughters and nieces of artisan Ha Thuan are famous for Then singing." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="309" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrz" width="500" /></a></em>
<p class="wp-caption-text"><em>Four daughters and nieces of artisan Ha Thuan are famous for Then singing.</em></p>
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<p><em><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBe"><img alt="1800246-11122015161016519-34-resize-877" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="353" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrB" width="500" /></a></em></p>
<p><em>Members from the Then singing club of Tan An learn dances for new Then songs.</em></p>
<div id="attachment_1800384" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBi"><img alt="Elder Ha Thi Chinh (An Thinh Hamlet, Tan An Commune) teaches Then singing for a little member of the club." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="377" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrF" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Elder Ha Thi Chinh (An Thinh Hamlet, Tan An Commune) teaches Then singing for a little member of the club.</p>
</div>
<p><em><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBk"><img alt="1800246-11122015161018888-70-resize-578" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="342" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfp" width="500" /></a></em></p>
<div id="attachment_1800380" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBm"><img alt="A Dan tinh (two-string musical instrument) is indispensible in Then singing." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="324" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfr" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">A Dan tinh (two-string musical instrument) is indispensible in Then singing.</p>
</div>
<div id="attachment_1800385" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBo"><img alt="Thanks to contributions from clubs and schools, Then singing has been preserved and developed in the lives of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic groups." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="345" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQvH" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Thanks to contributions from clubs and schools, Then singing has been preserved and developed in the lives of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic groups.</p>
</div>
<div id="attachment_1800381" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOXgA"><img alt="The vitality of" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="368" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTHT" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">The vitality of</p>
</div>
<p><em>Then</em> is clearly seen through the development of <em>Then</em> clubs not only within communities but also in schools. Ma Van Duc, a teacher at Tan An secondary school (Tan An Commune, Chiem Hoa District), revealed that his school has established a <em>Then</em> club, which had high achievements at district and provincial Then singing contests. More importantly, he added, learning various <em>Then</em> tunes, pupils will further understand and love the traditional culture of their native place.</p>
<p>According to statistical figures of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Department of Tuyen Quang Province, there exist now about 60 <em>Then-Dan tinh</em> clubs in 46 communes, wards and townships with 54 <em>Then</em> artisans, 100 “Tao” and 15 “Put” sorcerers (who practice <em>Then</em> singing in spiritual ceremonies) largely in Chiem Hoa, Lam Binh, Na Hang and Son Duong districts.</p>
<p>On the last day of our journey, we were lucky to attend the 5<sup>th</sup><em>Then-Dan tinh</em> Festival- 2015 of Tay, Nung Thai minority people in Tuyen Quang City with the participation of Then singers from 14 northern mountain provinces. Participants brought to the festival various <em>Then</em> tunes of their ethic groups and localities, which helps audiences discover the origins and diversity of <em>Then</em> singing arts in different regions. For instance, <em>Then</em> of Cao Bang region is deeply attached while <em>Then</em> of Lang Son is cheerful and boisterous, <em>Then</em> of Tuyen Quang highland region is fast and thick and powerful, like troops marching to battlefields, <em>Then</em> of Ha Giang is slow and melancholic, <em>Then</em> of Bac Kan murmurs like heart-to-heart talks.</p>
<div id="attachment_1800382" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><em><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBq"><img alt="The 5" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="310" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQvJ" width="500" /></a></em>
<p class="wp-caption-text"><em>The 5</em></p>
</div>
<p><em><sup>th</sup> Then Singing – Dan tinh Festival provides audiences the chance</em></p>
<p><em>to discover the art of Then singing – Dan tinh of ethnic groups in the mountain northern area.</em></p>
<p>We bid farewell to Tuyen Quang, cradle of the “fairy” tunes which are closely attached to the life of people. Just as Ha Thuan said: “Life without <em>Then</em> is like birds without singing, trees without leaves and flowers, or fish without rivers and streams. <em>Then</em> is a bridge linking the spiritual world with the earthly world, heaven with earthly people. It is the thread of love and duty binding people together for a peaceful and happy life, for good home and hamlet traditions”.</p>
<p>With such profound humane values, <em>Then</em> seems to go beyond the border of a village or a hamlet to become a cultural heritage of the nation and mankind as a noble value of the outlook on life. Hidden in each <em>Then</em> tune, are the objectives which mankind is aiming to reach.</p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p>In order to confirm and honour the value of the <em>Then</em> singing heritage of the Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic minorities, on August 12, 2015, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism issued a decision approving the master plan on formulation of dossiers on national nomination of Tay, Nung, and Thai <em>Then</em> to UNESCO for inclusion in the list of Mankind’s Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage.</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><em><strong>Story: Thao Vy – Photos: Trinh Van Bo</strong></em></p>
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Heaven’s Melody Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfn" width="200" /><br />

Heaven’s Melody

Heaven’s Melody

Live with Then , Die with Then , follow it to Heaven As perceived by these ethnic people, Then means “Heaven”. The singing of Then in wors...

Exploring Cham culture at Po Klong Garai Tower

<p>Tuong Vi</p>
<div id="attachment_1800262" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrx"><img alt="Po Klong Garai Tower in Ninh Thuan Province" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="334" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBa" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Po Klong Garai Tower in Ninh Thuan Province</p>
</div>
<p>The tower was built in the late 13th and early 14th centuries in honor of King Po Klong Garai (1151-1205). During his reign, the king focused on agricultural development. The two projects he built are Nha Trinh Dam and Cham canal, which are still in existence.</p>
<p>Recognized as a relic of architecture, art and sculpture by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 1979, Po Klong Garai Tower has three structures of different sizes — Chinh (main tower), Cong (gate tower) and Hoa (fire tower).</p>
<p>Measuring over 20 meters in height, the main tower is where people wordship King Po Klong Garai. The gate tower is more than eight meters high while the fire tower is around 9 meters high.</p>
<p>The surfaces of the towers are engraved with humans, dragons, leaves and sacred cows in stones and ceramics.</p>
<div id="attachment_1800263" style="width: 315px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfl"><img alt="Tourists climb the stairs to visit the tower - PHOTO: TUONG VI" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="457" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfl" width="305" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Tourists climb the stairs to visit the tower - PHOTO: TUONG VI</p>
</div>
<p>According to Cham people’s belief, the fire tower is the place for resting in peace and keeping the items used during ancient rituals while the gate tower is where people can take a rest to find peace before entering the main tower.</p>
<p>The unique part of Po Klong Garai tower lies in the clay bricks used for building it and the glue used to stick those bricks together. The glue is believed to have been made from an extract from a plant species called Dipterocarpus alatus, a tropical forest tree common in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. How the Dipterocarpus alatus extract was mixed with other materials to make the glue remains a mystery.</p>
<p>On December 30, Cham people still keep their tradition of gathering at the tower on the first day of the seventh lunar month for a ceremony to honor King Po Klong Garai and in October to celebrate Kate festival, during which they pray for pumper crops and prosperity.</p>
<p>It is easy for tourists to get to Po Klong Garai Tower on Trau Hill on Bac Ai Street, around 9 kilometers from Phan Rang-Thap Cham City.</p>
<p>On the way to Phan Rang-Thap Cham, tourists should drop by a local restaurant to eat banh xeo (rice pancake). The flavor of Phan Rang pancakes is slightly different from those made in the southern region. Rice flour is poured onto ceramic molds, instead of being fried. On the pancake are seafood like shrimp or squid, bean sprouts and green onions. The cake is served with fish sauce mixed with ground peanuts.</p>
<br />
Exploring Cham culture at Po Klong Garai Tower Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOUBa" width="200" /><br />

Exploring Cham culture at Po Klong Garai Tower

Exploring Cham culture at Po Klong Garai Tower

Tuong Vi Po Klong Garai Tower in Ninh Thuan Province The tower was built in the late 13th and early 14th centuries in honor of King Po K...

Officially informing 10 typical events of culture, sports and tourism 2015

<div id="attachment_1800088" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfh"><img alt="Special art performance program" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="283" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOUkU" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Special art performance program</p>
</div>
<p><strong>(Cinet)- The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 announced the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015, which were voted by 121 journalists representing media agencies across the country.</strong></p>
<p>1. The special art performance programme marking the 70th anniversary of the National Day themed “Vietnam – Aspiration for Peace”, which honoured the cultural diversity and aspiration for peace of ethnic groups in Vietnam.</p>
<p>2. The exhibition on 70 years of social-economic achievements, at the ever largest scale, which displayed the country’s most outstanding achievements in defence, security, politics, economy, education, culture and society.</p>
<p>3. The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province was recognised by UNESCO as a world natural heritage for the second time. The park is also the only World Natural Heritage site in Vietnam to satisfy three criteria on bio-diversity.</p>
<p>4. UNESCO inscribed the Tug of War rituals and games, which are traditionally practiced in Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Philippines and Cambodia, in the list of humankind intangible cultural heritages. It is the first time Vietnam has joined in building a multinational heritage dossier.</p>
<p>5.The State for the first time conferred the Emeritus Artisan title on artisans in the intangible cultural heritage field who are considered living humanity treasures.</p>
<p>6. “I saw yellow flower on green grass” became the first film produced in the public-private model to reap success in terms of artistic quality, social effect and economic efficiency.</p>
<p>7. The government issued resolutions on exempting visa on certain durations for citizens from six European countries – the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Belarus beginning from July 1, 2015.</p>
<p>8. The US’s ABC News television station ran a live programme named Good Morning America from Son Doong and En caves in central Quang Binh province with a length of 90 minutes, attracting a huge number of audiences.</p>
<p>9. SEA Games 28 là kỳ SEA Games thành công nhất trong lịch sử Thể thao Việt Nam khi lần đầu tiên các môn Olympic đóng góp tới 87% tỉ lệ các môn đoạt Huy chương vàng.</p>
<p>Vietnam’s sports reaped great success at the 28th Southeast Asian Games with a total of 186 medals of all types. It is noteworthy that 64 out of 73 gold medals came from Olympic sports.</p>
<p>10. Anh Vien was voted one of the five best swimmers in Asia and given the nickname “Steel Girl” by international media.</p>
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Officially informing 10 typical events of culture, sports and tourism 2015 Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOUkU" width="200" /><br />

Officially informing 10 typical events of culture, sports and tourism 2015

Officially informing 10 typical events of culture, sports and tourism 2015

Special art performance program (Cinet)- The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 announced the top 10 culture, sports ...

Young chess players fare well at Southeast Asian champs

<p>(VOV) – The Vietnam Chess Federation has reported the nation’s young male and female grandmasters had a strong showing at the recently concluded Southeast Asian Chess Championship in Indonesia.</p>
<p>After 11 matches, Nguyen Anh Khoi earned 7 points, ranking first in the boys’ category while Nguyen Thi Mai Hung took top honours in the girls’ category with nine points.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOXgn"><img alt="1800089-chess" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="250" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOXgn" width="445" /></a></p>
<p>In the final matches, Anh Khoi,13, defeated Megaranto Susanto with an elo 2254 (highest among male contestants in Jakarta) to win the gold medal.</p>
<p>Meanwhile grandmaster Dao Thien Hai also got a silver medal at the event, helping the chess team obtain striking success at the competition recognized by the World Chess Federation (FIDE).</p>
<br />
Young chess players fare well at Southeast Asian champs Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOXgn" width="200" /><br />

Young chess players fare well at Southeast Asian champs

Young chess players fare well at Southeast Asian champs

(VOV) – The Vietnam Chess Federation has reported the nation’s young male and female grandmasters had a strong showing at the recently concl...

Community-based Rehabilitation Project 2015 in review

<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOX06"><img alt="1800078-heath-30-12-2015" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="332" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQff" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>On December 28, the Health department organized the conference to review the operation of Project “Community-based rehabilitation for victims of dioxin toxic, used in Vietnam War by US army” in Quang Ngai province with the participation of representatives of the provincial departments and agencies and more than 150 staffs and collaborators of the project.</p>
<p>At the forum, the participants were heard report on the implementation situation and results of the project in the province in the period 2014-2015.</p>
<p>Reportedly, the project has been implemented since 2008 in three provinces of Thai Binh, Quang Ngai and Dong Nai. The objective is to improve the quality of the AO/Dioxin victims’ life by helping them integrate into the community with rehabilitation techniques, aid facilities and knowledge on the field.</p>
<p>In Quang Ngai province, the project’s phase 2 is implemented from 2014 to 2016 in Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Tu Nghia and Nghia Hanh districts.</p>
<p>In 2014 and 2015, the provincial project management board has signed responsibility contracts with General Hospitals of Son Tinh, Nghia Hanh, Tu nghia, and Dang Thuy Tram in providing health check-up and rehabilitation for AO victims.</p>
<p>As results, within two years, nearly 190 AO/Dioxin victims and disabled people came to hospitals and benefited from health care and functional rehabilitation services; hundreds of AO victims were donated rehabilitation equipments such as wheelchairs, shaking chairs, hearing-aid and cerebral palsy chairs; etc.</p>
<p>The conference also evaluated the coordination, shared experiences of rehabilitation for AO/Dioxin’s victims and disabled people in the community. Of which, the role of collaborators, the victim’s families and health staffs at commune and district level and the Association of Victims of Agent Orange is to be determined as particularly important factor.</p>
<p><b>Minh Thien</b></p>
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Community-based Rehabilitation Project 2015 in review Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQff" width="200" /><br />

Community-based Rehabilitation Project 2015 in review

Community-based Rehabilitation Project 2015 in review

On December 28, the Health department organized the conference to review the operation of Project “Community-based rehabilitation for vict...

Two Vietnamese chess aces dominate ASEAN championships

<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOX02"><img alt="1800080-hung-sdxw" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="375" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrr" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>Nguyen Thi Mai Hung, 21, has won the ASEAN Women category at the 3rd ASEAN Championships in Indonesia. Photo credit: Chessdom</p>
<p>Vietnamese chess players Nguyen Anh Khoi and Nguyen Thi Mai Hung secured top titles at the JAPFA 3rd ASEAN Championships in Jakarta, Indonesia on Wednesday.</p>
<p>In the ASEAN Open category, Khoi, 13, was the youngest player and ranked ninth among 12 players with 2,378 Elo points.</p>
<p>After ten rounds, he gained six points and was 0.5 point behind the top seed Garcia Jan Emmanuel from the Philippines.</p>
<p>In the 11th round, Khoi defeated host player Susanto Megaranto after four hours to secure a total of seven points and won the title.</p>
<p>“From Indonesia, he called home and said the victory is a gift for my birthday,” his mother Thanh Thao told local media in Ho Chi Minh City.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOU4r"><img alt="1800080-khoi-rmpv" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="375" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrt" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>Nguyen Anh Khoi, 13, competes at the event. Photo credit: Chessdom.</p>
<p>Khoi’s coach, Dao Thien Hai, 37, also competed at the event and finished with a runner-up title. Hai and Khoi earlier had a draw.</p>
<p>In the ASEAN Women category, the No.3 seed Nguyen Thi Mai Hung secured the top title after being undefeated in 11 matches.</p>
<p>The 21-year-old player from the northern province of Bac Giang finished with nine points after seven wins and four draws, including a draw with No.1 seed Janelle Mae Frayna of the Philippines.</p>
<p>Frayna, who finished second in the category, has a higher Elo ranking than Hung.</p>
<br />
Two Vietnamese chess aces dominate ASEAN championships Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrr" width="200" /><br />

Two Vietnamese chess aces dominate ASEAN championships

Two Vietnamese chess aces dominate ASEAN championships

Nguyen Thi Mai Hung, 21, has won the ASEAN Women category at the 3rd ASEAN Championships in Indonesia. Photo credit: Chessdom Vietnamese c...

Two Vietnamese chess players dominate ASEAN championships

<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWZW"><img alt="1800103-hung-sdxw" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="375" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrp" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>Nguyen Thi Mai Hung, 21, has won the ASEAN Women category at the 3rd ASEAN Championships in Indonesia. Photo credit: Chessdom</p>
<p>Vietnamese chess players Nguyen Anh Khoi and Nguyen Thi Mai Hung secured top titles at the JAPFA 3rd ASEAN Championships in Jakarta, Indonesia on Wednesday.</p>
<p>In the ASEAN Open category, Khoi, 13, was the youngest player and ranked ninth among 12 players with 2,378 Elo points.</p>
<p>After ten rounds, he gained six points and was 0.5 point behind the top seed Garcia Jan Emmanuel from the Philippines.</p>
<p>In the 11th round, Khoi defeated host player Susanto Megaranto after four hours to secure a total of seven points and won the title.</p>
<p>“From Indonesia, he called home and said the victory is a gift for my birthday,” his mother Thanh Thao told local media in Ho Chi Minh City.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOX00"><img alt="1800103-khoi-rmpv" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="375" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZQfb" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>Nguyen Anh Khoi, 13, competes at the event. Photo credit: Chessdom.</p>
<p>Khoi’s coach, Dao Thien Hai, 37, also competed at the event and finished with a runner-up title. Hai and Khoi earlier had a draw.</p>
<p>In the ASEAN Women category, the No.3 seed Nguyen Thi Mai Hung secured the top title after being undefeated in 11 matches.</p>
<p>The 21-year-old player from the northern province of Bac Giang finished with nine points after seven wins and four draws, including a draw with No.1 seed Janelle Mae Frayna of the Philippines.</p>
<p>Frayna, who finished second in the category, has a higher Elo ranking than Hung.</p>
<br />
Two Vietnamese chess players dominate ASEAN championships Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrp" width="200" /><br />

Two Vietnamese chess players dominate ASEAN championships

Two Vietnamese chess players dominate ASEAN championships

Nguyen Thi Mai Hung, 21, has won the ASEAN Women category at the 3rd ASEAN Championships in Indonesia. Photo credit: Chessdom Vietnamese c...

The Grand Ho Tram Strip hosts the first Ho Tram Kite Festival in Ba Ria – Vung Tau

<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrn"><img alt="1800044-lehoidieu-hotram" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="364" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrn" width="448" /></a></p>
<p>The Grand Ho Tram Strip in collaboration with Ba Ria-Vung Tau Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will host the first Ho Tram Kite Festival above the Ho Tram sea’s spectacular coastline from 10am to 5pm on 1 and 2 January 2016.</p>
<p>The skies of Ho Tram are set to light up as 10 groups of professional Vietnamese kite artisans launching more than 150 unique and colorful kites from the Ho Tram Strip’s 2.2 kilometer beach.</p>
<p>“It’s hard to think of a more spectacular stage for these aerial dancers to grace than the East Sea at the Ho Tram Strip. We cannot wait to host this event, and look forward to showcasing this little slice of Vietnamese culture with guests from near and far,” said Michael Kelly, Executive Chairman of Ho Tram Strip.</p>
<p>Kites are a familiar site in Vietnamese skies, with spare plots of land around the nation frequently playing host to legions of young Vietnamese aerialists, keen to find the precise point where the wind meets the sails for their craft. Kite Festivals elevate this art and are often large scale events around the region.</p>
<p>This will be the first time the Ho Tram Strip has played host to a fun and challenging spectator sport which can be enjoyed by all ages. Of particular interest is the ‘Rokkaku kite battle’ which will bring more energy and excitement to the event as flyers try to knock their opponents’ kites out of the sky.</p>
<p>“My relationship with kites began in my childhood, just like a lot of kids in Viet Nam. It was a passion that reignited when my own kids came along, and I showed them how to build and fly their own kites. The more I study and work in them, the deeper my passion for them becomes. I know no better way to unwind from the stresses of daily life than to take my kite to the sky,” said Mr. Nguyen Nam Hue, Head of Kite Club from Ba Ria Vung Tau. “It’s a part of our culture that we need to save and preserve for the next generations. I am proud to say that my own 10 year old son will be the youngest artisan to take his wares to the clouds in Ho Tram soon”</p>
<p>Ho Tram Strip has hosted a range of activities in the last two years as sporting, music events. Meanwhile the property has unveiled a host of new leisure offerings including a sports bar, a new jewelry store and multibrand boutique. A new BBQ restaurant is coming soon as well as a mini golf course, waterslide and a wide array of water sports on its beach.</p>
<p>While in the festive spirit, a series of other activities will also be offered between 31 December and 2 January, including poolside games for kids, carnival girls and stilt walkers in holiday costumes, a street magic crew as well as balloon artists for kids. No entrance fees are applied.</p>
<p>Furthermore, the Grand will offer appealing room promotions with VND3,600,000++/night, including buffet breakfast for two and offering a third night free with a two night booking.</p>
<p>For more information and reservations, kindly contact us on +84 64 378 8888 or via <a href="#mailto:info@thegrandhotram.com">info@thegrandhotram.com</a></p>
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<td>
<p>The Ho Tram Strip is a group of integrated resorts and residential developments located on more than 400 acres of land with two kilometers of pristine beach in Ho Tram, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Viet Nam. An Investment Certificate listed by the Government of Viet Nam has approved the development which has an investment commitment of US$4 billion of which the already completed phase I has seen an investment of over US$550 million. Work on phase II is underway and future phases will see an additional three five-star resorts added to the 2.2 kilometer seaside strip.</p>
<p>Focusing on providing a personalized blend of excitement and relaxation, the Ho Tram Strip features something for everyone, from lavish entertainment to world-class golfing and exceptional beach recreational facilities. The Strip is located just a two hour scenic and relaxed drive from Ho Chi Minh City.</p>
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The Grand Ho Tram Strip hosts the first Ho Tram Kite Festival in Ba Ria – Vung Tau Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTrn" width="200" /><br />

The Grand Ho Tram Strip hosts the first Ho Tram Kite Festival in Ba Ria – Vung Tau

The Grand Ho Tram Strip hosts the first Ho Tram Kite Festival in Ba Ria – Vung Tau

The Grand Ho Tram Strip in collaboration with Ba Ria-Vung Tau Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will host the first Ho Tram Kite Fe...

Ben Tre cycling tournament to cover 11 localities

<div id="attachment_1800047" style="width: 460px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWJA"><img alt="Twelve teams will compete in the 18th National Men's Cycling Tournament-Ben Tre Television Cup on January 11. — Photo thethaohcm.vn" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="300" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWJA" width="450" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Twelve teams will compete in the 18th National Men's Cycling Tournament-Ben Tre Television Cup on January 11. — Photo thethaohcm.vn</p>
</div>
<p>HA NOI (VNS) — The 18th National Men’s Cycling Tournament-Ben Tre Television Cup is scheduled to begin in the southern Ben Tre Province on January 11.</p>
<p>The event will attract cyclists from 12 teams across the country, who will compete in seven stages over 840km through 11 Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta localities such as Tien Giang, Dong Thap, An Giang and Kien Giang.</p>
<p>The six-day annual event, which offers a total prize of VND250 million (US$11,300), will end on January 16.</p>
<p>The event will be jointly organised by the Viet Nam Cycling and Motor Sport Federation, Ben Tre department of culture, sports and tourism and Ben Tre Television. — VNS</p>
<br />
Ben Tre cycling tournament to cover 11 localities Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWJA" width="200" /><br />

Ben Tre cycling tournament to cover 11 localities

Ben Tre cycling tournament to cover 11 localities

Twelve teams will compete in the 18th National Men's Cycling Tournament-Ben Tre Television Cup on January 11. — Photo thethaohcm.vn H...

Three large cultural events on New Year 2016

<div id="attachment_1800016" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYW"><img alt="Illustrative image" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="383" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYW" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Illustrative image</p>
</div>
<p><strong>(Cient)- Three large cultural programs will feature some attractive songs and dances in Ha Noi on December 31.</strong></p>
<p>The events are being organised by the Ha Noi Department of Culture and Sports to create an atmosphere that provides excitement and motivation and hope for people in the New Year.</p>
<p>The event will start with lively dances and DJ music, with lighting and sound effects at 8pm at Ly Thai To Flower Garden. The audience will also enjoy a colourful and musical night with joyful songs, such as <em>Ao Xanh</em> (Green Shirt) and <em>Giac Mo Tuyet Voi</em> (Wonderful Dream), and dances being performed.</p>
<p>The second programme, entitled Happy New Year 2016, Thang Long- Ha Noi Spirit, will also take place at 8pm at August Revolution Square in front of the Ha Noi Opera House. The initial partial of a eventuality will engage singing of songs about a party, nation and Ha Noi, such as Ha Noi Niem Tin Va Hy Vong (Ha Noi Belief and Hope) and Khat Vong (Aspiration). Music lovers will then enjoy the performances of modern bands such as DJ Battle and Remix.</p>
<p>The last performance will begin at 9pm at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, where intense songs such as <em>Mua Xuan Dau Tien</em> (The First Spring) and <em>Mua Xuan Lang Lua Lang Hoa</em> (Spring in the Flower and Rice Villages) will be performed by famous Vietnamese singers such as Khanh Linh and Quang Tuan.</p>
<p>The program comprises some modern dance performances by O’Plus, and Carmen dance troop and DJ Trang Moon.</p>
<p>Previously, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015, which were voted by 121 journalists representing media agencies across the country. Then, the Ministry also listed the top nine fine arts and photography events in 2015.</p>
<br />
Three large cultural events on New Year 2016 Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYW" width="200" /><br />

Three large cultural events on New Year 2016

Three large cultural events on New Year 2016

Illustrative image (Cient)- Three large cultural programs will feature some attractive songs and dances in Ha Noi on December 31. The ev...

PFV and Japanese FC to train Vietnamese football players

<p><em>VietNamNet Bridge – The Promotion Fund for Vietnamese Football Talents (PVF) has completed negotiating the final article in their contract to cooperate with Japanese Gamba Osaka FC in a youth training programme.</em></p>
<div id="attachment_1799990" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYU"><img alt="PVF players seen during a tournament." class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="329" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOU48" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">PVF players seen during a tournament.</p>
</div>
<p>Following the singing of the agreement, Gamba Osaka will send their experts to Viet Nam to coach players using their methods, and the club will also bring the best Vietnamese players to continue training at their headquarters in Japan.</p>
<p>Gamba Osaka will also sign contracts with those Vietnamese athletes who are able to compete in the J.League.</p>
<p>Additionally, the two organizations will support each other in organizing training courses in their localities.</p>
<p>The signing ceremony is to be held next month.</p>
<p>PVF recently sent 12 players on loan to different clubs to prepare for their 2016 season.</p>
<p>Gamba Osaka is the second international partner that PVF will work with, after Busan I’Park of South Korea, which began cooperating in 2013.</p>
<p>The 35-year-old Japanese club is a professional team, currently playing in the J.League 1. They finished in second place last season.</p>
<p>Gamba Osaka twice won the tournament, in 2007 and 2014, and triumphed three times in the Emperor Cup in 2008, 2009 and 2014.</p>
<p>They also grabbed the AFC Champions League trophy in 2008 and ranked third in the World Club Championship that same year.</p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Related news</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZTb5">U19 Vietnam to play six friendlies in Japan</a><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWJu">Vietnam agrees to reduce maximum age of 29th SEA Games football players</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><em>VNS</em></p>
<br />
PFV and Japanese FC to train Vietnamese football players Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOU48" width="200" /><br />

PFV and Japanese FC to train Vietnamese football players

PFV and Japanese FC to train Vietnamese football players

VietNamNet Bridge – The Promotion Fund for Vietnamese Football Talents (PVF) has completed negotiating the final article in their contract t...

350 enterprises join in Consumption Promotion Fair 2015

<p><strong>The 2015 Consumption Promotion Fair was opened at Phu Tho Sporting Event Hall on December 29.</strong></p>
<div id="attachment_1799954" style="width: 285px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOTNR"><img alt="Illustrative photo: SGGP" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="183" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOTNR" width="275" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Illustrative photo: SGGP</p>
</div>
<p>The event was organized by Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade and Department of Tourism to help consumers choose Vietnamese best products as well as create a chance for enterprises to introduce their best goods to domestic consumers.</p>
<p>Around 350 enterprises displayed 570 pavilions selling home appliances, consumer products, tourism services, sweets, beverages, tea brands during the Lunar New Year holidays.</p>
<p>During the six-day fair, over 10, 000 products will be introduced to consumers and it is also an opportunity to exchange two-way information between enterprises and customers.</p>
<p>Besides, enterprises run ‘Gold time for Vietnamese brand name’ preferential program and discount programs respectively at 9- 11 am and at 5- 7 pm every day.</p>
<p>The organizational board and the city’s Market Management Agency have set up stalls of counterfeit products and bad quality products to provide practical information to customers.</p>
<p>The 2015 Consumption Promotion Fair is scheduled to run until January 3rd, 2016.</p>
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350 enterprises join in Consumption Promotion Fair 2015 Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOTNR" width="200" /><br />

350 enterprises join in Consumption Promotion Fair 2015

350 enterprises join in Consumption Promotion Fair 2015

The 2015 Consumption Promotion Fair was opened at Phu Tho Sporting Event Hall on December 29. Illustrative photo: SGGP The event was org...

Vietnamese fishing village overcomes shyness to host tourists

<p>Le Thi Mot launched her homestay business on Ly Son Islands two years ago after being urged by a group of tourists she had hosted for free.</p>
<p>“The tourists group arrived on Ly Son late and all guest houses were full,” the woman from the island 15 nautical miles off the central Quang Ngai Province said. “I asked them to stay in my house for free that night.”</p>
<p>After returning from the trip, the tourists called Mot and advised her to start a homestay and her business has been a big success.</p>
<p>“In summer there are 5-15 tourists a day. The room rates are VND50,000-100,000 (US$2.2-US$4.4) per night,” she said.</p>
<p>Soon around 10 families on Ly Son’s main island of Re got into the business to meet the increasing demand.</p>
<div id="attachment_1799948" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWJm"><img alt="Tourists visit a garlic farm on Quang Ngai's Ly Son Islands. Photo: Phuong Uy" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="333" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTaX" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Tourists visit a garlic farm on Quang Ngai's Ly Son Islands. Photo: Phuong Uy</p>
</div>
<p>Vo Thi Loan, Mot’s neighbor, said people on the island are mostly fishermen, and it was a bit unusual for them to have strangers in their houses.</p>
<p>“It took time, but we have gradually got used to hosting guests in our houses.”</p>
<p>She has hosted many tourists including students and those visiting the island in groups, she said.</p>
<p>“It is like staying at home for the tourists. I cook any food they want and boil water for drinking. It is not expensive like in restaurants and hotels.”</p>
<p>The hosts also tell interesting stories when taking tourists to visit old houses, an old pagoda, a cave or garlic fields – a specialty on the island.</p>
<p><strong>Improving business</strong></p>
<div id="attachment_1799949" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOTNH"><img alt="Fishing coracles on Ly Son Islands. Photo: Diep Duc Minh" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="335" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTb0" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Fishing coracles on Ly Son Islands. Photo: Diep Duc Minh</p>
</div>
<p>Currently there are three high-speed boats from Quang Ngai to Ly Son Islands that depart at 8 a.m. and five boats depart an hour later every day. The trip takes an hour by speed boat and two hours otherwise.</p>
<p>According to local authorities, the homestay industry has not been managed properly, with many service providers lacking experience.</p>
<p>34 families have registered to run the business.</p>
<p>Around 150,000 people visited Ly Son this year, or 27% of the tourists coming to the province.</p>
<p>Huynh Thi Phuong Hoa, deputy director of the Quang Ngai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said her agency has organized two trips for families on Ly Son to see homestay services in other places.</p>
<p>“They have visited Hoi An and Cham Islands, where homestay developed earlier, to learn and have a look from tourists’ viewpoint to improve their service at home.”</p>
<br />
Vietnamese fishing village overcomes shyness to host tourists Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTaX" width="200" /><br />

Vietnamese fishing village overcomes shyness to host tourists

Vietnamese fishing village overcomes shyness to host tourists

Le Thi Mot launched her homestay business on Ly Son Islands two years ago after being urged by a group of tourists she had hosted for free. ...

Hanoi to organise special art performances on the New Year Eve

<p><i>The Hanoitimes</i> – Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports said that numerous special art performances will be organised to celebrate New Year 2016.</p>
<p>Vietnamese singers and artists and some famous international DJs will partipate in the stellar performances from December 31 to January 1 to welcome the New Year 2016.</p>
<p>According to the department, the performances will be arranged meticulously with impressing stages as well as brilliant sound and light systems.</p>
<div id="attachment_1799908" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWt5"><img alt="Photo for illustration" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="280" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWt5" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Photo for illustration</p>
</div>
<p>Held annually at Ly Thai To Flower Garden, the New Year countdown festival will bring a kaleidoscopic night to the audiences. The show will feature music and contemporary dance performances.</p>
<p>The August Revolution Square will be lightened up during the holiday with vibrant light and music performances given by Vietnam Contemporary Art Theatre and relevant organisations.</p>
<p>In addition, another art performance featuring songs welcoming the 12th National Party Congress will take place at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square on the New Year Eve.</p>
<p>Thu Minh</p>
<br />
Hanoi to organise special art performances on the New Year Eve Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWt5" width="200" /><br />

Hanoi to organise special art performances on the New Year Eve

Hanoi to organise special art performances on the New Year Eve

The Hanoitimes – Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports said that numerous special art performances will be organised to celebrate New Year...

One film listed the first in top 10 key cultural events in 2015

<p><i>The Hanoitimes</i> – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 revealed the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015.</p>
<p>Apart from ceremonies of the national key festivals, the list included some the ministry’s highlights such as: The movie “I saw yellow flower on green grass” became the first film produced in the public-private model having the highest sales and the State for the first time conferred the Emeritus Artisan title on artisans in the intangible cultural heritage field.</p>
<p><strong>1.</strong> The special art performance programme to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the National Day themed “Vietnam – Aspiration for Peace” deeply impressed with local people and international friends.</p>
<p>Bringing together 2,500 artists and artisans, the programme highlighted the country’s cultural achievements in different historic stages.</p>
<p><strong>2</strong>. The exhibition on 70 years of social-economic achievements, at the ever largest scale displayed the country’s most outstanding achievements in defence, security, politics, economy, education, culture and society. The exhibition attracted the participation of 27 ministries, agencies and 30 provinces and centrally-governed cities.</p>
<p><strong>3.</strong> The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province was recognised by UNESCO as a world natural heritage for the second time. The park is also the only World Natural Heritage site in Vietnam to satisfy three criteria on bio-diversity. The park was put on the list of World Natural Heritage sites for the first time in 2003 for its striking geological and geomorphological features.</p>
<p><strong>4.</strong> UNESCO inscribed the Tug of War rituals and games, which are traditionally practiced in Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Philippines and Cambodia, in the list of humankind intangible cultural heritages. It is the first time Vietnam has joined in building a multinational heritage dossier.</p>
<p><strong>5.</strong> The State for the first time conferred the Emeritus Artisan title on artisans in the intangible cultural heritage field who are considered living humanity treasures. The title is in recognition of the artisans’ contributions to the preservation of the country’s precious heritage.</p>
<p><strong>6</strong>. “I saw yellow flower on green grass” became the first film produced in the public-private model to gain success in terms of artistic quality, social effect and economic efficiency.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZTaR"><img alt="1799903-phim1" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="309" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTaR" width="500" /></a></p>
<p>With remarkable success and four important awards at the 19th Vietnam Film Festival – the best movie, the best director, the best camera and the best voted film by audience – the film is a rare phenomenon in Vietnam’s film industry when it received good feedback from both critics and the public.</p>
<p><strong>7.</strong> The government issued resolutions on exempting visa on certain durations for citizens from six European countries – the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Belarus beginning from July 1, 2015. The decision helped solve difficulties for Vietnamese tourism in attracting tourists from important markets. <strong>8.</strong> ABC News television station of the US performed a live programme named Good Morning America from Son Doong and En caves in central Quang Binh province with a length of 90 minutes, drawwing international audiences.</p>
<p><strong>9.</strong> Vietnam’s sports achieved the greatest success at the 28th Southeast Asian Games in Singapore with 87% of gold medals come from Olympic sports.</p>
<p><strong>10.</strong> Anh Vien was chosen one of the five best swimmers in Asia. With the sucess winning 8 gold medals, one silver and one bronze and breaking 8 SEA Games records at the 28th SEA Games in Singapore, the swimmer was given the nickname “Steel Girl” by international media. Anh Vien is also the first athlete of Vietnamese sport who was paid attention by international and the Southeast Asian region communication. She also reached the right to compete in the Summer Olympics 2016 in Brazil.</p>
<p>Thu Minh</p>
<br />
One film listed the first in top 10 key cultural events in 2015 Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1OxZTaR" width="200" /><br />

One film listed the first in top 10 key cultural events in 2015

One film listed the first in top 10 key cultural events in 2015

The Hanoitimes – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 revealed the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015....

Vietnam’s ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015

<p><em>The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 announced the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015, which were voted by 121 journalists representing media agencies across the country.</em> <strong>1. The special art performance programme marking the 70th anniversary of the National Day themed “Vietnam – Aspiration for Peace”</strong>, which honoured the cultural diversity and aspiration for peace of ethnic groups in Vietnam.</p>
<p><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWsQ"><img alt="1799886-20151230104243-2-394" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="307" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWsQ" width="450" /></a></p>
<p>Bringing together 2,500 artists and artisans, the programme highlighted the country’s cultural achievements in different historic stages.</p>
<p>The programme also vividly portrayed the special cultural features of 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam and UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage as well as the whole nation’s aspiration for peace and development.</p>
<p><strong>2. The exhibition on 70 years of social-economic achievements</strong>, at the ever largest scale, which displayed the country’s most outstanding achievements in defence, security, politics, economy, education, culture and society.</p>
<p>The exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and Investment, attracted the participation of 27 ministries, agencies and 30 provinces and centrally-governed cities.</p>
<p>Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung presided over the event’s opening ceremony, while Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and many Party and State leaders were among tens of thousands of visitors to the event.</p>
<p><strong>3. The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh province was recognised by UNESCO as a world natural heritage for the second time.</strong> The park is also the only World Natural Heritage site in Vietnam to satisfy three criteria on bio-diversity.</p>
<p>The park was put on the list of World Natural Heritage sites for the first time in 2003 for its striking geological and geomorphological features.</p>
<p><strong>4. UNESCO inscribed the Tug of War rituals and games</strong>, which are traditionally practiced in Vietnam, the Republic of Korea, Philippines and Cambodia, in the list of humankind intangible cultural heritages.</p>
<p>It is the first time Vietnam has joined in building a multinational heritage dossier.</p>
<p><strong>5. The State for the first time conferred the Emeritus Artisan title on artisans in the intangible cultural heritage field who are considered living humanity treasures.</strong></p>
<p>The title is in recognition of the artisans’ contributions to the preservation of the country’s precious heritage.</p>
<p><strong>6. “I saw yellow flower on green grass” became the first film produced in the public-private model to reap success in terms of artistic quality, social effect and economic efficiency.</strong></p>
<p>With resounding box-office success and four important awards at the 19th Vietnam Film Festival – the best movie, the best director, the best camera and the best voted film by audience – the film is a rare phenomenon in Vietnam’s film industry when it received good feedback from both critics and the public.</p>
<p><strong>7. The government issued resolutions on exempting visa on certain durations for citizens from six European countries – the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and Belarus beginning from July 1, 2015.</strong> The decision helped remove difficulties for Vietnamese tourism in drawing tourists from important markets.</p>
<p><strong>8. The US’s ABC News television station ran a live programme named Good Morning America from Son Doong and En caves in central Quang Binh province</strong> with a length of 90 minutes, attracting a huge number of audiences.</p>
<p>Only one week later, the images of the two caves in the programme appeared in advertising clips for blockbuster Peter Pan that attracted more than 10 million views.</p>
<p><strong>9. Vietnam’s sports reaped great success at the 28th Southeast Asian Games with a total of 186 medals of all types.</strong> It is noteworthy that 64 out of 73 gold medals came from Olympic sports.</p>
<p><strong>10. Anh Vien was voted one of the five best swimmers in Asia and given the nickname “Steel Girl” by international media.</strong></p>
<p>The 19 year-old girl won 8 gold medals, one silver and one bronze and broke eight SEA Games records at the 28th SEA Games in Singapore.</p>
<p>With 15 gold medals, six silvers and three bronzes, 2015 has been Vien’s most successful year. She also earned the right to compete in the Summer Olympics 2016 in Brazil.</p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>related news</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWsS">Hanoi to host Happiness Concert</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZSUz">Hanoi: Special art performances to welcome New Year 2016</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWsU">Countdown Party 2016 in HCM City to feature DJs, entertainment</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYO">Vietnam’s top nine fine arts and photography events in 2015 announced</a></li>
<li><a href="http://bit.ly/1ktOWt0">Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand arts exhibition opens</a></li>
</ul>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><em>VNA</em></p>
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Vietnam’s ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015 Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWsQ" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam’s ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015

Vietnam’s ten major culture, sports and tourism events in 2015

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on December 29 announced the top 10 culture, sports and tourism events in 2015, which were voted...

Leicester frustrate title rivals Manchester City

<p>Manchester City were frustrated again on the road as Leicester bounced back from defeat at Liverpool with a 0-0 draw that maintained their surprise Premier League title challenge.</p>
<div id="attachment_1799889" style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="http://bit.ly/1OxZPYM"><img alt="Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez (R) vies with Manchester City's Aleksandar Kolarov during the English Premier League football match at King Power Stadium in Leicester, central England. (AFP PHOTO/ADRIAN DENNIS)" class="attachment-medium aligncenter" height="281" rel="lightbox" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWcy" width="500" /></a>
<p class="wp-caption-text">Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez (R) vies with Manchester City's Aleksandar Kolarov during the English Premier League football match at King Power Stadium in Leicester, central England. (AFP PHOTO/ADRIAN DENNIS)</p>
</div>
<p>LEICESTER: Manchester City were frustrated again on the road as Leicester bounced back from defeat at Liverpool with a 0-0 draw that maintained their surprise Premier League title challenge.</p>
<p>Leicester had to withstand a barrage of first-half pressure from their visitors but they held firm for the point that took them level with Arsenal at the top of the table. The Foxes grew in confidence after half-time and could have snatched another major scalp in their extraordinary season.</p>
<p>Manchester City are without a win in six Premier League away games but boss Manuel Pellegrini will take heart from a dominant performance before half-time.</p>
<p>Leicester abandoned their normal 4-4-2 system and started with Gokhan Inler as an extra midfielder alongside N’Golo Kante and the returning Danny Drinkwater, who was back from a hamstring injury.</p>
<p>Shinji Okazaki and Andy King were the men to make way while City brought back Sergio Aguero in place of Wilfried Bony. The visitors made all of the early running and exploited their hosts repeatedly down the flanks.</p>
<p>Pellegrini’s men wasted several decent crossing opportunities before Leicester almost struck a blow against the run of play. Inler was fouled 25 yards from goal and Christian Fuchs’ free-kick was headed over by Robert Huth.</p>
<p>But Manchester City were the more likely scorers and the should have made the breakthrough when Raheem Sterling burst down the right and squared for Kevin De Bruyne. He hit a firm shot but it was pushed away solidly by Kasper Schmeichel in the home goal.</p>
<p>Leicester had been pinned back in their own half with striker Jamie Vardy isolated for lengthy spells. But Riyad Mahrez, his goalscoring partner in crime, nearly made the most of a slip by Nicolas Otamendi and tried a curling shot from an angle that dipped just over.</p>
<p>Manchester City came again, however, and Schmeichel came to the rescue once more when he pushed away a decent shot from Sterling. The pair were engaged in a personal battle and Schmeichel succeeded again on 32 minutes when he pushed a left-footed effort by Sterling over the bar.</p>
<p>After withstanding waves of pressure, Leicester should twice have led in the 40th minute. First Fuchs’ cross from the left eluded Marc Albrighton at the far post by inches. Then Fernandinho gifted possession to Jamie Vardy, who exchanged passes with Drinkwater on the edge of the box before blasting over.</p>
<p>Aguero should have given the visitors the lead a minute into the second half when he arrived at the near post to meet a De Bruyne cross. But Leicester, who had squandered possession cheaply, were reprieved when the Argentine sent a cheeky chip over the crossbar.</p>
<p>Albrighton sent a shot into the side netting from a tough angle after a smart pass by Mahrez as Ranieri’s men grew in confidence. But they almost fell behind when Otamendi met a corner from De Bruyne with a firm header that forced Schmeichel into another good save.</p>
<p>With momentum behind them, Leicester sent on Leonardo Ulloa for Inler as they went on the attack. It almost paid off instantly as Ulloa’s decoy run allowed Vardy to collect Drinkwater’s pass, but he shot straight at Joe Hart in the Manchester City goal.</p>
<p>Late on Hart had to make a good, flying save to keep out a thunderous shot from Fuchs following a short corner by the Foxes.</p>
<p><em>Source AFP</em></p>
<br />
Leicester frustrate title rivals Manchester City Related image(s)<br />
<img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/1ktOWcy" width="200" /><br />

Leicester frustrate title rivals Manchester City

Leicester frustrate title rivals Manchester City

Manchester City were frustrated again on the road as Leicester bounced back from defeat at Liverpool with a 0-0 draw that maintained their s...

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