Michael Learns to Rock, Wonder Girls at Vietjet’s concert

Michael Learns to Rock, Wonder Girls at Vietjet’s concert <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2gEy9Cj" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Legendary band Michael Learns to Rock (Source: VNA)</p> </div> <strong>HCM City (VNA)</strong> – New-age carrier Vietjet will bring the legendary band Michael Learns to Rock (MLTR), the Danish group that sold over 9 million records, and iconic band of the Republic of Korea Wonder Girls to Vietnam for the region’s largest musical concert, “SKY CONNECTION.” <p>The concert will be held at Quan Khu 7 Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City on December 21, 2016.</p> <p>The event will bring together multi-generational music idols performing on the same stage, and is the first event of its kind to be held in Vietnam.</p> <p>It will also contrast the two unique and inspirational performance styles of two world class bands. The event features some of Vietnam’s top singers, including Thu Minh “Sexy Queen” and Son Tung M-TP “Vietnam Idol,” along with the appearance of Vietnamese top model Thanh Hang, supermodel Lan Khue and Miss Universe Vietnam Pham Huong.</p> <p>The concert was designed to be an astonishing gift to music lovers, and is held under the auspices of Vietjet’s 5th Anniversary.</p> <p>Concert tickets are now available for booking at http://bit.ly/2fxKJqN and are priced from 100,000 VND to 2 million VND.</p> <p>MLTR band won hearts through the hit songs, Sleeping Child, 25 Minutes, Take Me To Your Heart, Out Of The Blue, and That’s Why You Go Away, bringing them fame and fortune among world music rankings. Meanwhile, Wonder Girls are renowned for their impressive Retro Pop style which is popular throughout all of Asia. They remain one of the RoK’s top music bands with hit songs that include Nobody, Tell Me, and So Hot.</p> <p>Following the two groups’ massive achievements, their appearance at the Sky Connection concert is a precious chance for global music fans to enjoy a world-class music festival in celebration for Vietjet’s 5th Anniversary with IMC Corporation as the event’s media partner.</p> <p>Vietjet is the first airline in Vietnam to operate as a new-age airline with low-cost and diversified services to meet customers’ demands. It provides not only transport services but also uses the latest e-commerce technologies to offer various products and services for consumers.</p> <p>The carrier recently became a fully-fledged member of International Air Transport Association (IATA) after receiving the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate two years ago.</p> <p>Vietjet was also named as one of the Top 500 Brands in Asia 2016 by global marketing research company Nielsen and “Best Asian Low Cost Carrier” at the TTG Travel Awards 2015, which compiles votes from travelers, travel agencies and tour operators in throughout Asia. The airline was also rated as one of the top three fastest growing airline brands on Facebook in the world by Socialbakers.</p> <p>Currently, the airline boasts a fleet of 40 aircraft, including A320s and A321s, and operates 350 flights each day. It has already opened 53 routes in Vietnam and across the region to international destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Chinese Taiwan, China and Myanmar. It has carried nearly 30 million passengers to date.-VNA</p> <br /> Michael Learns to Rock, Wonder Girls at Vietjet’s concert Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2gEy9Cj" width="200" /><br />

Michael Learns to Rock, Wonder Girls at Vietjet’s concert

Michael Learns to Rock, Wonder Girls at Vietjet’s concert Legendary band Michael Learns to Rock (Source: VNA) HCM City (VNA) – New-age c...

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Vietjet offers promotional air tickets

Vietjet offers promotional air tickets <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2fxUzsA" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Illustrative image (Source: VNA)</p> </div> <strong>HCM City (VNA) –</strong> New-age carrier Vietjet will bring out 1.5 million promotional tickets priced from only 0 USD at www.vietjetair.com on the occasion of its 5th anniversary “Sky Connection” concert in Ho Chi Minh City. <p>The promotion, during the golden hours 12h to 14h daily from November 28 to December 11, 2016, applies for all domestic route within Vietnam and international ones connecting Ho Chi Minh City/Hanoi with Hong Kong, Busan, Seoul (the Republic of Korea), Taipei, Kaohsiung, Tainan, Taichung (Chinese Taiwan), Singapore, Bangkok (Thailand), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and Yangon (Myanmar).</p> <p>Specially, the 50 first persons booking air tickets within the promotion time and making payment right away will win 50 free “Sky Connection” Concert tickets every day.</p> <p>The promotion applies for traveling from December 1, 2016 to March 25, 2017 (for domestic routes) and from December 1, 2016 to November 28, 2017 (for international routes) excluding national holidays.</p> <p>Promotional tickets are also available for booking at http://bit.ly/1BDdBzh (for smart phones) or at http://bit.ly/1zyybAq (just click the “Booking” tab).</p> <p>Payment can be easily made with debit and credit cards of Visa, MasterCard, JCB, KCP, and American Express and ATM cards issued by 29 Vietnam’s banks that have been registered with internet banking.</p> <p>The “Sky Connection” Concert will bring together multi-generational music idols performing on the same stage, and is the first event of its kind to be held in Vietnam.</p> <p>The event will also contrast the two unique and inspirational performance styles of two world class bands. The event features some of Vietnam’s top singers, including Thu Minh “Sexy Queen” and Son Tung M-TP “Vietnam Idol,” along with the appearance of Vietnamese top model Thanh Hang, supermodel Lan Khue and Miss Universe Vietnam Pham Huong. The concert was designed to be an astonishing gift to music lovers, and is held under the auspices of Vietjet’s 5th Anniversary.</p> <p>With its high-quality services, special low-fare tickets and diverse ticket classes, Vietjet offers its passengers enjoyable flights with dynamic and friendly flight crew, comfy seats, amazing hot meals and special surprises from the airline’s inflight activities.</p> <p>Vietjet is the first airline in Vietnam to operate as a new-age airline with low-cost and diversified services to meet customers’ demands. It provides not only transport services but also uses the latest e-commerce technologies to offer various products and services for consumers.</p> <p>The carrier recently became a fully-fledged member of International Air Transport Association (IATA) after receiving the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certificate two years ago.</p> <p>Vietjet was also named as one of the Top 500 Brands in Asia 2016 by global marketing research company Nielsen and “Best Asian Low Cost Carrier” at the TTG Travel Awards 2015, which compiles votes from travelers, travel agencies and tour operators in throughout Asia. The airline was also rated as one of the top three fastest growing airline brands on Facebook in the world by Socialbakers.</p> <p>Currently, the airline boasts a fleet of 40 aircraft, including A320s and A321s, and operates 350 flights each day. It has already opened 53 routes in Vietnam and across the region to international destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Chinese Taiwan, China and Myanmar. It has carried nearly 30 million passengers to date.-VNA</p> <br /> Vietjet offers promotional air tickets Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fxUzsA" width="200" /><br />

Vietjet offers promotional air tickets

Vietjet offers promotional air tickets Illustrative image (Source: VNA) HCM City (VNA) – New-age carrier Vietjet will bring out 1.5 mill...

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Vietnamese visitors to Japan skyrocket in 2016: tourism official

Vietnamese visitors to Japan skyrocket in 2016: tourism official <p><strong>The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan has increased sharply this year, according to a Japanese tourism official.</strong></p> <p><strong>The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan has increased sharply this year, according to a Japanese tourism official.</strong></p> <p>Over 200,000 Vietnamese have visited Japan in the first 10 months of this year, a 30 percent increase year-on-year, Akihiko Tamura, an official from the Japan Tourism Agency said during a recent meeting with 30 Vietnamese travel agencies in the East Asian country.</p> <p>The growth can be attributed to new and simpler visa procedures for tourists, Tamura assessed, adding that travel companies in Japan have been paying more attention to the Vietnamese market.</p> <p>According to Keiji Yoshida, CEO of Asia Investment & Travel Company, which offers package tours to the Asian market, many outbound tour operators in Vietnam have increasingly focused on promoting Japanese tourism to local travelers.</p> <p>More direct flights from Vietnam to Japan have also opened, providing a more convenient journey for visitors, Yoshida added.</p> <p>Aside from the meeting, the 30 Vietnamese travel agencies sought new destination partners in Japan to organize more tours for Vietnamese travelers who wish to come to the East Asian nation and vice versa.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="A Japanese food vendor points at the name of his fried sweet potatoes, written in Vietnamese. Photo: Tuoi Tre" src="http://bit.ly/2fruXxA" title="A Japanese food vendor points at the name of his fried sweet potatoes, written in Vietnamese. Photo: Tuoi Tre" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">A Japanese food vendor points at the name of his fried sweet potatoes, written in Vietnamese. Photo: Tuoi Tre</p> </div> <br /> Vietnamese visitors to Japan skyrocket in 2016: tourism official Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fruXxA" width="200" /><br />

Vietnamese visitors to Japan skyrocket in 2016: tourism official

Vietnamese visitors to Japan skyrocket in 2016: tourism official The number of Vietnamese visitors to Japan has increased sharply this year,...

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Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey

Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey" src="http://bit.ly/2g9zvIe" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Western tourists on cyclo cycle rickshaw tour in Hanoi. Photo by Vietnam News Agency</p> </div> <p>Many lodgings, including four-star hotels, have reported hygiene-related incidents.</p> <p>Low quality, hygiene and sanitation are the biggest turn-offs for travelers in Vietnam, according to a recent survey conducted by the Hanoi-based Institute of Tourism Development Research.</p> <p>The survey polled 1,470 tourists, including locals and foreigners, to gauge the factors that influence the country’s tourism competitiveness.</p> <p>The survey showed that travelers are most likely to be turned off by tourism destinations and accommodation where hygiene and sanitation facilities are inadequate and of poor quality, said Nguyen Anh Tuan, the director of the research institute.</p> <p>Nguyen Thanh Binh, a senior official at the national administration of tourism, admitted that sanitation and hygiene are an important factor for many tourists when it comes to choosing their destination.</p> <p>She added that despite being equipped with modern amenities, many lodgings, including four-star hotels, have reported hygiene-related incidents.</p> <p>The number of foreign visitors to Vietnam is well on track to top nine million in the first 11 months, up 25.4 percent from a year ago and already surpassing the full-year 8.5 million target for 2016.</p> <p>According to the General Statistics Office, foreign arrivals to Vietnam in November are estimated to reach more than 926,000, up 14 percent from last month and 25 percent from last year.</p> <p>Official statistics show the tourism sector accounted for 6.6 percent of Vietnam’s gross domestic products in 2015. This figure is expected to jump to 10 percent or more, making tourism a driving force behind the country’s economic growth.</p> <p>Vietnam jumped five places to 75th among the 141 countries on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index for 2015.</p> <p><em>Related news:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2azw1Nz">Vietnam’s flourishing tourism market poses threat to Thailand</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2b1YOH1">Weak marketing hurts Vietnam’s tourism growth</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2fVGcKN">Ho Chi Minh City plans floating market to boost tourism</a></p> <br /> Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2g9zvIe" width="200" /><br />

Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey

Poor sanitation, hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey Western tourists on cyclo cycle rickshaw tour in Hanoi. P...

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Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey

Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey" src="http://bit.ly/2g9zvIe" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Western tourists on cyclo cycle rickshaw tour in Hanoi. Photo by Vietnam News Agency</p> </div> <p>Hygiene-related incidents have been reported at many lodgings, including four-star hotels.</p> <p>Low quality, hygiene and sanitation are the biggest turn-offs for travelers in Vietnam, according to a recent survey conducted by the Hanoi-based Institute of Tourism Development Research.</p> <p>The survey polled 1,470 tourists, including locals and foreigners, to gauge the factors that influence the country’s tourism competitiveness.</p> <p>The survey showed that travelers are most likely to be turned off by tourism destinations and accommodation where hygiene and sanitation facilities are inadequate and of poor quality, said Nguyen Anh Tuan, the director of the research institute.</p> <p>Nguyen Thanh Binh, a senior official at the national administration of tourism, admitted that sanitation and hygiene are an important factor for many tourists when it comes to choosing their destination.</p> <p>She added that despite being equipped with modern amenities, many lodgings, including four-star hotels, have reported hygiene-related incidents.</p> <p>The number of foreign visitors to Vietnam is well on track to top nine million in the first 11 months, up 25.4 percent from a year ago and already surpassing the full-year 8.5 million target for 2016.</p> <p>According to the General Statistics Office, foreign arrivals to Vietnam in November are estimated to reach more than 926,000, up 14 percent from last month and 25 percent from last year.</p> <p>Official statistics show the tourism sector accounted for 6.6 percent of Vietnam’s gross domestic products in 2015. This figure is expected to jump to 10 percent or more, making tourism a driving force behind the country’s economic growth.</p> <p>Vietnam jumped five places to 75th among the 141 countries on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index for 2015.</p> <p><em>Related news:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2azw1Nz">Vietnam’s flourishing tourism market poses threat to Thailand</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2b1YOH1">Weak marketing hurts Vietnam’s tourism growth</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2fVGcKN">Ho Chi Minh City plans floating market to boost tourism</a></p> <br /> Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2g9zvIe" width="200" /><br />

Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey

Poor hygiene make Vietnam less attractive tourism destination: survey Western tourists on cyclo cycle rickshaw tour in Hanoi. Photo by Viet...

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Piloting electronic visa: The push to attract international visitors

Piloting electronic visa: The push to attract international visitors <div><i>The Hanoitimes</i> – Vietnamese National Ambassy has recently passed a resolution on the pilot implementation of electronic visa (E-visa) to foreigners entering Vietnam for a period of two years, that will take effect from February 1, 2017. This is considered a push to attract international tourists to Vietnam.</div> <div><em><strong>Quick procedures</strong></em> <p>According to the Resolution on the implementation of pilot electronic visas for foreigners entering Vietnam, E-visa is valid for a period of time that does not exceed 30 days. Visa applicants must pay fees via electronic bank account, and will not be refunded in case of E-visa is not granted. Time for electronic visas are processed within 3 days, foreigners must have a passport and must not in the case of immigration provisions of Article 21 of the Law on entry, exit, transit and residence of foreigners in Vietnam.</p> <div> <table> <tr> <td><img alt="International tourists are visiting the Old Quarter of Hanoi" src="http://bit.ly/2g75lCN" /> <div>International tourists are visiting the Old Quarter of Hanoi</div> </td> </tr> </table> </div> <p>General Director of APT Travel Group Nguyen Hong Dai said: The E-visa pilot has great significance in the present context. By tourism enterprises and tourists do not necessarily need a free visa, but more importantly, the procedure to be resolved quickly. “In fact, to make a visa, travelers feel that the most troubling thing is not having to pay fees that go through many procedures, from the other company to the other agencies. Meanwhile, electronic visas will help shorten the multiple stages, multiple procedures and reducing the time for the traveler,” Mr. Dai analyzed.</p> <p>Sharing the same view, Head of Vietrantour’s Communications Le Cong Nang said that the E-visa granting is general global trend to simplify entry and exit procedures between countries. While ensuring security, safety, and transparency of financial information, easily managing and creating favorable conditions for the entry of tourists. On the other hand, according to the 2014 report of the World Tourism and Travel Council (WTTC), Vietnam has the potential to boost the number of tourists from 8-18% if facilitating the issuance of visas. Therefore, the application of E-visa is necessary.</p> <p><em><strong>Gradually removing three barriers</strong></em></p> <p>To effectively implementing E-visa, Mr. Nang said: “From now until February 2017, the agencies and units concerned have sufficient resources and equipment, avoid the situation that visitors must suffer long-awaited clearance, because applying for E-visa is accompanied by registration of visitors increasing many times as the normal visa.”</p> <p>At the same time, Vietrantour also proposed, the national airline and international flight operators to Vietnam to be propaganda on E-visa procedures. Then, asking the flight attendant passenger guidance procedures that are necessary to quickly complete immigration procedures. In addition, experts said that the State management agency on tourism should advise the Government to expand the list of countries to be granted a visa to Vietnam and in specific destinations. Along with that, improving the process of issuing visas at border gates in an easy, transparent, clear and consistent way; a review of the ban on visa-free travelers are back within 30 days without a valid visa. Vietnam also needs to develop a system of transiting visas to attract tourists and develop a transhipment hub in the region.</p> </div> <div>By Anh Kiet</div> <div>(Ho Ha – Kinhtedothi.vn)</div> <br /> Piloting electronic visa: The push to attract international visitors Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2g75lCN" width="200" /><br />

Piloting electronic visa: The push to attract international visitors

Piloting electronic visa: The push to attract international visitors The Hanoitimes – Vietnamese National Ambassy has recently passed a res...

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Da Nang voted among best holiday destinations in Asia

Da Nang voted among best holiday destinations in Asia <p>(CPV) – The central coastal city of Da Nang has been listed among the Top 10 holiday destinations in Asia by readers of the online magazine Smart Travel Asia.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="This is the fourth consecutive time Da Nang won the maganizine's recognition. (Photo: CPV)" src="http://bit.ly/2ggU71u" title="This is the fourth consecutive time Da Nang won the maganizine's recognition. (Photo: CPV)" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">This is the fourth consecutive time Da Nang won the maganizine’s recognition. (Photo: CPV)</p> </div> Smart Travel Asia’s editor-in-chief Vijay Verghese said Da Nang won this award thanks to its beautiful natural landscape, attractive festivals and events, tasty local dishes and safe travelling environment. <p>Da Nang was voted as the magazine’s best holiday destination in Asia since 2013, and continued to appear on the list for four consecutive years.</p> <p>Smart Travel Asia is the most prestigious online travel magazine of the region, with 14 years of experience and 1.2 million views annually around the world.</p> <p>The magazine’s voting runs within three months from May to July 2016 with the participation of a million readers worldwide. The vote is based on three main factors: the real quality of tourism products, word of mouth (responses from friends and colleges) and the popularity of the tourism brand in the online community./.</p> <p>BTA</p> <br /> Da Nang voted among best holiday destinations in Asia Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2ggU71u" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang voted among best holiday destinations in Asia

Da Nang voted among best holiday destinations in Asia (CPV) – The central coastal city of Da Nang has been listed among the Top 10 holiday d...

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VinaCapital sells trophy asset for $100 million

VinaCapital sells trophy asset for $100 million <div> <p>The Vietnam Opportunity Fund, managed by VinaCapital Group, has sold its entire holding in an unnamed trophy asset for US$100 million to a newly-formed hospitality joint venture between it and US private equity firm Warburg Pincus.</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2fDAT2N" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">The Vietnam Opportunity Fund, managed by VinaCapital Group, has sold its entire holding in an unnamed trophy asset for US$100 million to a newly-formed hospitality joint venture between it and US private equity firm Warburg Pincus.-Photo vietnamfinance.vn</p> </div> <p>The unnamed asset, which has the audited net asset value (NAV) of $60 million as of June 30, 2016, is believed to be the landmark century-old Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel Hanoi.</p> <p>In the filing to the London Stock Exchange, the fund announced that it received the first payment of $37 million upon signing and closing the Share Purchase Agreement on the divestment of “an asset” to a newly formed consortium.</p> <p>The closed-end fund will receive minimum net proceeds of $100 million from the sale of the asset, and the balance of the remaining proceeds will be payable in two annual installments.</p> <p>According to its October report, the fund’s portfolio value stood at $823.4 million as of October 31, in which the top ten highest-valued assets accounted for 58.1 per cent.</p> <p>The Ha Noi-based hotel, valued at over $60 million, is the third largest investment of the fund with 7.3 per cent of its NAV, after dairy producer Vinamilk (VNM) with 16.9 per cent and steelmaker Hoa Phat Group (HPG) with 8.8 per cent.</p> <p>The 365-room, French colonial-era hotel was built in 1901 near the Sword Lake in the heart of Ha Noi. It is 50 per cent owned by Vietnam Opportunity Fund and 50 per cent held by tour operator Hanoitourist Travel.</p> <p>The hotel has annual revenue of around VND800 billion ($35.7 million) and net profit of VND200 billion per year, according to Cafef.vn.</p> <p>The fund has been seeking to divest from the hotel since 2012, as it tries to sell premium assets after the collapse of the property market, but it has yet to succeed.</p> <p>“We are delighted to have reached this agreement and we look forward to redeploying the proceeds into the many new opportunities in this market as well as toward our ongoing share buyback programme,” said managing director Andy Ho.</p> <p>VinaCapital and its CEO Don Lam will continue to be involved in the oversight of the asset and are expected to participate with a non-controlling interest in the consortium.</p> <p>In a related development, VinaCapital, Don Lam and Warburg Pincus LLC last week agreed to form a $300 million joint venture that focuses on development, acquisitions and operations of hotels in Viet Nam and Southeast Asia.</p> <p><em>Source VNS</em></p> <br /> VinaCapital sells trophy asset for $100 million Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fDAT2N" width="200" /><br />

VinaCapital sells trophy asset for $100 million

VinaCapital sells trophy asset for $100 million The Vietnam Opportunity Fund, managed by VinaCapital Group, has sold its entire holding in ...

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An open-air studio: French photographer bathes Hoi An in gold

An open-air studio: French photographer bathes Hoi An in gold <p>Vietnam’s ancient coastal town bewitches travelers and artists alike.</p> <p><a href="http://bit.ly/2cjq5JV">French photographer Réhahn</a> fell in love with Vietnam and its people during a field trip in 2007.</p> <p>Four years later, he moved from France to the town of Hoi An in central Vietnam.</p> <p>Through Réhahn’s lens, Hoi An takes on a striking and distinctive golden-yellow hue.</p> <p>The town has about 1,000 ancient houses of which 844 are on a UNESCO list for their historical value.</p> <p>“Hoi An is like an open-air studio. The light and the yellow walls make the perfect backdrop for any subject, continually surprising and inspiring me,” BBC Travel quoted Réhahn as saying.</p> <p>The French photographer tries to capture this remarkable feature of the ancient town in everyday moments.</p> <p>Keep scrolling to see stunning photos from his most recent book: “Vietnam-Mosaic of Contrast”.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens" src="http://bit.ly/2gFAW35" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">The street, canals, bridges and the distinctive yellow houses here have been unchanged for hundreds of years.</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens-1" src="http://bit.ly/2ghf3Do" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Most buildings in Hoi An’s ancient town back on to the Thu Bon River, making it easy for loading and off-loading goods that are transported by boat.</p> </div> <br /> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="Schoolgirls, as seen here, always wear the traditional ao dai, said Réhahn." src="http://bit.ly/2gFErq7" title="Schoolgirls, as seen here, always wear the traditional ao dai, said Réhahn." width="500" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>Schoolgirls, as seen here, always wear the traditional <em>ao dai</em>, said Réhahn.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens-3" src="http://bit.ly/2ghk92a" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">In Hoi An, East meets West with French colonial houses among Japanese temples and Chinese wooden shops. Many of the buildings are covered in a distinctive golden-yellow color.</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens-4" src="http://bit.ly/2gFwvW0" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">The shade symbolizes pride, wealth and respect in Vietnamese culture.</p> </div> <br /> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="As dawn breaks on the horizon, Réhahn captures a woman sweeping the street with a broom." src="http://bit.ly/2ghfVaP" title="As dawn breaks on the horizon, Réhahn captures a woman sweeping the street with a broom." width="500" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td> <p>As dawn breaks on the horizon, Réhahn captures a woman sweeping the street with a broom.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens-6" src="http://bit.ly/2gFAD87" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Locals eating breakfast at a food stall around the Japanese bridge.</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="an-open-air-studio-hoi-ans-ancient-town-through-french-photographers-lens-7" src="http://bit.ly/2ghdDsA" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">In a rapidly growing Vietnam, there are a few places like Hoi An where time seems to stand still with all its unique and charming features intact.</p> </div> <p><em>Related News:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2cQeD9P">Hoi An plans to dismantle iconic 400-year-old bridge</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2cQfdEy">Hoi An, an ancient outpost turned Instagram heaven</a></p> <br /> An open-air studio: French photographer bathes Hoi An in gold Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2gFAW35" width="200" /><br />

An open-air studio: French photographer bathes Hoi An in gold

An open-air studio: French photographer bathes Hoi An in gold Vietnam’s ancient coastal town bewitches travelers and artists alike. French ...

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Central city voted in Asia’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations

Central city voted in Asia’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img src="http://bit.ly/2fSSTGE" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">A yacht sails in the Han River during the Clipper 2015-16 Round the World Yacht Race. Photo Clipper World Race</p> </div> <div><a href="http://bit.ly/24En4mq">Viet Nam News</a> <p>ĐÀ NẴNG – Đà Nẵng has been named among the Top 10 Holiday Destinations in Asia by <em>Smart Travel Asia –</em> an online tourism magazine for Asia.</p> <p>Deputy Director of the city’s tourism department Nguyễn Xuân Bình told <em>Việt Nam News</em> a certificate recognising the honour was handed over by a representative of the magazine in Da Nang last week.</p> <p>Bình said Đà Nẵng has been listed in the annual magazine’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations since 2013.</p> <p>In the readers’ vote this year, Da Nang ranked ninth, tied with Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Chengdu, China.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="http://bit.ly/2fSNAai" width="500" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td>The Rong (Dragon) Bridge lights up in the Han River in Da Nang city.Photo ASA Studio</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>HCM City, a trade hub in Việt Nam, was listed in the Top 10 Cities for Business, while HCM City-based Park Hyatt Saigon was included in Top 25 Conference Hotels.</p> <p>The Nam Hai Hoi An in Hội An city and Banyan Tree Lăng Cô in Thừa Thiên-Huế were listed in the Top 25 Spa Hotel and Resorts.</p> <p>The Nam Hai resort, situated on the coast of Hội An, and Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hà Nội, ranked second in the Top 25 Leisure Hotels and Resorts.</p> <p>Đà Nẵng also received an award for Asia’s Leading Festival and Event at the World Travel Awards ceremony for tourism in Đà Nẵng this October.</p> <p>The central city hosted 4.6 million tourists, of which 1.25 million were foreign tourists, in 2015. – VNS</p> </div> <br /> Central city voted in Asia’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fSSTGE" width="200" /><br />

Central city voted in Asia’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations

Central city voted in Asia’s Top 10 Holiday Destinations A yacht sails in the Han River during the Clipper 2015-16 Round the World Yacht Ra...

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Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations in Asia

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations in Asia <p>2016 has been a good year for Da Nang’s tourism industry.</p> <p>Vietnam’s central city of Da Nang has been voted ninth out of the top 10 attractive holiday destinations in Asia by readers of the Hong Kong-based Smart Travel Asia magazine, the city’s Center of Tourism Promotion said on Thursday.</p> <p>This is the fourth consecutive year Da Nang has been listed Smart Travel Asia’s top 10.</p> <p>“Da Nang remains a hugely popular draw for its stunning stretch of unbroken beach, local food, family travel, meetings options and great resorts,” the magazine said.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="da-nang-named-in-top-10-asian-destinations-in-asia" src="http://bit.ly/2g7oZz6" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Nguyen Thi Hoai An (right), deputy head of Da Nang’s Center of Tourism Promotion, receives the award from from Smart Travel Asia Editor Vijay Verghese. Photo courtesy of the center.</p> </div> <p>The city was also named “2016 Asia’s Leading Festival and Event Destination” by the World Travel Awards, knows as “the Oscars of the travel industry”.</p> <p>The city’s Department of Tourism said that 2016 has been a good year for tourism in Da Nang.</p> <p>The city is estimated to welcome 5.5 million tourists this year, up 17.7 percent from last year. Foreign visitor numbers are projected to grow 31.6 percent to hit 1.66 million, while domestic visitors are expected to rise by 12.5 percent to 3.8 million.</p> <p>Revenue from tourism is also set to surge by 24.7 percent on-year to hit VND16 trillion ($711 million).</p> <p>Da Nang has set a target of attracting 6.1 million tourists in 2017, up 10.7 percent against 2016.</p> <p><em>Related news:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2g7rmly">Vietnam wins top titles at ‘Tourism Oscars’ ceremony</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2gum47h">Can Tho City wins Asian Townscape Award 2016</a></p> <br /> Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations in Asia Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2g7oZz6" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations in Asia

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations in Asia 2016 has been a good year for Da Nang’s tourism industry. Vietnam’s central city of Da N...

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Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations by Smart Travel Asia magazine

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations by Smart Travel Asia magazine <p>2016 has been a good year for Da Nang’s tourism industry.</p> <p>Vietnam’s central city of Da Nang has been voted ninth out of the top 10 attractive holiday destinations in Asia by readers of the Hong Kong-based Smart Travel Asia magazine, the city’s Center of Tourism Promotion said on Thursday.</p> <p>This is the fourth consecutive year Da Nang has been listed Smart Travel Asia’s top 10.</p> <p>“Da Nang remains a hugely popular draw for its stunning stretch of unbroken beach, local food, family travel, meetings options and great resorts,” the magazine said.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="da-nang-named-in-top-10-asian-destinations-by-smart-travel-asia-magazine" src="http://bit.ly/2g7oZz6" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Nguyen Thi Hoai An (right), deputy head of Da Nang’s Center of Tourism Promotion, receives the award from from Smart Travel Asia Editor Vijay Verghese. Photo courtesy of the center.</p> </div> <p>The city was also named “2016 Asia’s Leading Festival and Event Destination” by the World Travel Awards, knows as “the Oscars of the travel industry”.</p> <p>The city’s Department of Tourism said that 2016 has been a good year for tourism in Da Nang.</p> <p>The city is estimated to welcome 5.5 million tourists this year, up 17.7 percent from last year. Foreign visitor numbers are projected to grow 31.6 percent to hit 1.66 million, while domestic visitors are expected to rise by 12.5 percent to 3.8 million.</p> <p>Revenue from tourism is also set to surge by 24.7 percent on-year to hit VND16 trillion ($711 million).</p> <p>Da Nang has set a target of attracting 6.1 million tourists in 2017, up 10.7 percent against 2016.</p> <p><em>Related news:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2g7rmly">Vietnam wins top titles at ‘Tourism Oscars’ ceremony</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2gum47h">Can Tho City wins Asian Townscape Award 2016</a></p> <br /> Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations by Smart Travel Asia magazine Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2g7oZz6" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations by Smart Travel Asia magazine

Da Nang named in top 10 Asian destinations by Smart Travel Asia magazine 2016 has been a good year for Da Nang’s tourism industry. Vietnam’...

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Danang named “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016”

Danang named “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016” <p>(VOVworld) – Da Nang has been included in the “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016”, as voted by readers of Smart Travel Asia following its success two years ago.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td><img alt="danang named "top 10 holiday destination in asia 2016" hinh 0" src="http://bit.ly/2gunuih" width="500" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Smart Travel Asia’s editor-in-chief Vijay Verghese presents the certificate recognizing Da Nang as “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016” for a representative of the city’s Tourism Promotion Center. (Photo: tourism.danang.vn)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Smart Travel Asia is a prestigious online travel magazine with 14 years of experience and 1.2 million views annually around the world.</p> <p>The online voting lasted from May to July 2016, with more than 1 million readers worldwide, and based on the quality of tourist experiences, word of mouth, and the popularity of the tourism brand among the online community. Nguyen Xuan Binh, Deputy Director of Da Nang’s Tourism Department, said: “The award has boosted the image of Da Nang City. We feel honored to be voted on this list again, especially when recently Da Nang has been selected as one of Asia’s leading destinations for events and festivals. We’ll increase publicity programs and prepare products and services of the best quality to meet visitors’ rising demands.”</p> <br /> Danang named “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016” Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2gunuih" width="200" /><br />

Danang named “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016”

Danang named “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 2016” (VOVworld) – Da Nang has been included in the “Top 10 Holiday Destination in Asia 201...

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Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection

Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection <p>Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection</p> <p>Kieu Giang</p> <p>Around 100 leading entrepreneurs signed a commitment for not using rhino horns or products from wild animals and pledge to contribute to the protection of wild animals in Vietnam at a large-scale campaign hosted by WildAid and CHANGE in Hanoi on Wednesday.</p> <p>A commitment to preserve wildlife and stop the use of rhino horns in Vietnam was kicked off a year ago when U.S.’s billionaire Richard Branson had a meeting with a group of entrepreneurs in the country during his visit to Vietnam. Since then, there have been 75 more business leaders and 250 senior staff of enterprises signing the pledge.</p> <p>Vietnam and China are the two major consuming markets of rhino horns that are illegally hunted in South Africa and other African countries. There have been 5,750 rhinos killed in South Africa since 2008.</p> <p>Some of the entrepreneurs signing the commitment include Tran Hung Huy, chairman of Asia Commercial Bank (ACB), David Do, managing director of Vietnam Investments Group, Truong Hue Van, chairwoman of WMC, Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh, CEO of REE, Dinh Thi Hoa, CEO of Thien Ngan, Bui Quang Ngoc, general director of FPT Group, Le Quoc Vinh, CEO of Le Media, and Hoang Khai, CEO of Khai Silk, among others.</p> <p>Nguyen Thi Mai Thanh said in a statement that by signing the commitment, she wished to both balance financial benefits and social values. “I understand my role and responsibilities towards social issues, especially the consumption of wild animal products, as many of them have almost neared extinction. I’m calling on my family, friends and business partners to join me in this campaign,” she added.</p> <p>In addition, these business leaders will be pioneers in building sustainable strategies and corporate social responsibility. “I highly evaluate the commitment of Vietnamese businesspeople. It shows a strong support of local entrepreneurs to strengthen the legal compliance with more effective preservation activities of wild animals,” said Peter Knights, executive director of WildAid, in a statement.</p> <p>The signing list will be published on some local newspapers and magazines, including <em>Nhip Cau Dau Tu</em> (Vietnam Investment Review), <em>Doanh Nhan Sai Gon</em>, <em>The Thao Van Hoa va Dan Ong</em>, and <em>TravelLive,</em> and will go online at <em>http://bit.ly/2g7pGbO</em>.</p> <p>CHANGE and WildAid are also making a short documentary, featuring interviews with entrepreneurs about the protection of rhinos. There are more roundtables for businessmen and marketing campaigns to spread the campaign to people in the community.</p> <br /> Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200" /><br />

Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection

Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection Local entrepreneurs join forces for rhino protection Kieu Giang Around 100 leading en...

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Vietnam, Singapore: safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia

Vietnam, Singapore: safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia <p>Low risk of terrorism puts Vietnam on the safe travel map.</p> <p>Vietnam and Singapore are the only countries in Southeast Asia marked throughout as having low travel security risk in Southeast Asia, according to the Travel Risk Map for 2017 compiled by International SOS and Control Risks.</p> <p>Vietnam is well-known for its sustainable political situation and low violent crime rate.</p> <p>While seven in 10 surveyed respondents expressed concerns over terrorism threats, Vietnam should not be an issue. The country was in the top 10 on the 2016 Global Peace Index for conflict free areas.</p> <p>Vietnam is ranked as having rapidly developing variable medical risk along with other ASEAN countries, except for Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, where medical risk has been flagged as high.</p> <p>International SOS said that medical care in Vietnam’s remote areas could be an issue due to a shortage of medication while in major cities “appropriate standard of medical care is available from select providers.”</p> <p>As the world is on alert for the infectious Zika virus, half of travelers have changed their plans for fear of being infected by the virus, according to the report.</p> <p>Vietnam’s <a href="http://bit.ly/2g7saa2">Zika</a> cases are approaching 50, and the virus is continuing to spread in the south of the country.</p> <p>Vietnam is notorious for its chaotic traffic, especially during rush hour. Road safety risks in Vietnam are a serious issue, with risk level rated as very high. This makes Vietnam and Thailand the two countries with the most danerous roads in Southeast Asia. International SOS recommended people not to travel by motorbikes when visiting Vietnam and instead choose a reputable transport company.</p> <p>During the first eight months of this year, Vietnam recorded over 13,000 cases of traffic accidents, marking a decrease of 7 percent on-year, according to the General Statistics Office.</p> <p><em>Related news:</em></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2gumgDT">Vietnam named a favorite destination for Chinese tourists</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2g7rmly">Vietnam wins top titles at ‘Tourism Oscars’ ceremony</a></p> <p>> <a href="http://bit.ly/2cvWMyE">Vietnam has a big night at Mekong tourism awards</a></p> <br /> Vietnam, Singapore: safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam, Singapore: safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia

Vietnam, Singapore: safest travel destinations in Southeast Asia Low risk of terrorism puts Vietnam on the safe travel map. Vietnam and Sin...

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EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="ec proposes a european travel information and authorisation system hinh 0" src="http://bit.ly/2fzvY5w" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">(VOVworld)- The European Commission has proposed to establish a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to strengthen security checks on visa-free travelers. If approved, the system will facilitate travel and help agencies ensure security in Europe.</p> </div> <p>The proposal follows an announcement in September by EC President Jean Claude Juncker in his 2016 State of the Union address, and is a first deliverable of the priorities for action identified in the <a href="http://bit.ly/2g1tiMW">Bratislava Roadmap</a>. The ETIAS will gather information on all individuals travelling visa-free to the European Union to allow for advance irregular migration and security checks. This will contribute to a more efficient management of the EU’s external borders and improve internal security, at the same time facilitating legal travel across Schengen borders.</p> <p>The EC’s first Vice-President Frans Timmermans said that securing borders and protecting citizens is Europe’s first priority. The ETIAS is therefore an important step towards stronger and smarter information systems for border and security. The ETIAS will be managed by the European Border and Coast Guard in close cooperation with the competent authorities of the member states and Europol.</p> <p>Migration and Home Affairs Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos said that ETIAS is the missing link in the EU’s border management, connecting the dots with migration and security policies and enhancing Schengen entry for at least 95% of visa-free travelers.</p> <p>The ETIAS authorisation is not a visa; it is a lighter and more visitor-friendly regime. Nationals of visa liberalisation countries will still be able to travel without a visa but will have to obtain a simple travel authorisation prior to their travel to the Schengen Area. If the system is put into operation, travelers within the Schengen Area need to pay an application fee of 5 euro for multiple visas for a 5-year period. The European Commission hopes the system will be put into operation by 2020. Before that, it needs approval of 28 EU members and the European Parliament.</p> <p>At present, citizens of 60 countries and territories around the world can enter the Schengen Area without a visa – from the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, Chile, and Argentina.</p> <p>Thu Hoa</p> <br /> EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fzvY5w" width="200" /><br />

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (VOVworld)- The European Commission has proposed to establish a European...

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Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations <p>Foreign arrivals are estimated to increase by 31.6% to about 1.66 million, while domestic tourists are also up by 12.5%.</p> <p>The sector has created jobs for about 27,000 people and generated revenues worth an estimated VND16 trillion (US$720 million), a year-on-year rise of 24.7%.</p> <p>Such positive figures come as a result of the city’s campaigns to promote its image, an endeavour to open new flight routes connecting the city with Bangkok and Taiwan, China and the efforts of the city’s tourist support centre.</p> <p>Da Nang has also worked with the provinces of Thua Thien-Hue and Quang Nam and travel agencies to diversify tour packages, and with the EU to enhance the capacity of its tourism staff.</p> <p>In addition, CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the city to ensure a safe environment for tourists.</p> <p>Last month, Da Nang was named Asia’s leading festival and event destination at the World Travel Awards ceremony.</p> <p>The city has set a target of attracting 6.1 million visitors in 2017, including 1.9 million foreign tourists, by stepping up its promotion programmes in key markets in East Asia and Southeast Asia and expanding to new markets in Europe and North America, as well as India.</p> <p>Da Nang’s tourism sector in 2017 is also expected to be buoyed by its hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and the annual firework festival.</p> <br /> Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations Foreign arrivals are estimated to increase by 31.6% to about 1.66 million, whil...

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A day in Pom Coong

A day in Pom Coong <p>A day in Pom Coong</p> <p>Nguyen Vinh</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2guh9mW" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">Thai ethnic minority girls in Pom Coong</p> </div> <p>Travelers to Mai Chau District in the northern mountainous province of Hoa Binh should not miss a trip to visit Pom Coong, a village of Thai ethnic minority people. There are only 70 stilt houses in the village where people are still doing farming alongside tourism.</p> <p>Many people in Pom Coong currently still stick to their job of making brocade products while others help entertain tourists by traditional music performances or serving local specialties made from pork and chicken.</p> <p>People in Pom Coong do their tourist services quite professionally. Guests can stay at stilt houses and rent motorbikes to explore the place.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2g7pDg6" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">A tourist browses for brocade fabric</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2gukCSv" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">A traditional dance of people in Pom Coong</p> </div> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2g7qkWJ" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">A path leading to Pom Coong Village in Mai Chau District in the northern mountainous province of Hoa Binh – PHOTOS: NGUYEN VINH</p> </div> <br /> A day in Pom Coong Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2guh9mW" width="200" /><br />

A day in Pom Coong

A day in Pom Coong A day in Pom Coong Nguyen Vinh Thai ethnic minority girls in Pom Coong Travelers to Mai Chau District in the norther...

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EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="ec proposes a european travel information and authorisation system hinh 0" src="http://bit.ly/2fzvY5w" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">(VOVworld)- The European Commission has proposed to establish a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to strengthen security checks on visa-free travelers. If approved, the system will facilitate travel and help agencies ensure security in Europe.</p> </div> <p>The proposal follows an announcement in September by EC President Jean Claude Juncker in his 2016 State of the Union address, and is a first deliverable of the priorities for action identified in the <a href="http://bit.ly/2g1tiMW">Bratislava Roadmap</a>. The ETIAS will gather information on all individuals travelling visa-free to the European Union to allow for advance irregular migration and security checks. This will contribute to a more efficient management of the EU’s external borders and improve internal security, at the same time facilitating legal travel across Schengen borders.</p> <p>The EC’s first Vice-President Frans Timmermans said that securing borders and protecting citizens is Europe’s first priority. The ETIAS is therefore an important step towards stronger and smarter information systems for border and security. The ETIAS will be managed by the European Border and Coast Guard in close cooperation with the competent authorities of the member states and Europol.</p> <p>Migration and Home Affairs Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos said that ETIAS is the missing link in the EU’s border management, connecting the dots with migration and security policies and enhancing Schengen entry for at least 95% of visa-free travelers.</p> <p>The ETIAS authorisation is not a visa; it is a lighter and more visitor-friendly regime. Nationals of visa liberalisation countries will still be able to travel without a visa but will have to obtain a simple travel authorisation prior to their travel to the Schengen Area. If the system is put into operation, travelers within the Schengen Area need to pay an application fee of 5 euro for multiple visas for a 5-year period. The European Commission hopes the system will be put into operation by 2020. Before that, it needs approval of 28 EU members and the European Parliament.</p> <p>At present, citizens of 60 countries and territories around the world can enter the Schengen Area without a visa – from the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, Chile, and Argentina.</p> <p>Thu Hoa</p> <br /> EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fzvY5w" width="200" /><br />

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System

EC proposes a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (VOVworld)- The European Commission has proposed to establish a European...

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Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations <p>Foreign arrivals are estimated to increase by 31.6% to about 1.66 million, while domestic tourists are also up by 12.5%.</p> <p>The sector has created jobs for about 27,000 people and generated revenues worth an estimated VND16 trillion (US$720 million), a year-on-year rise of 24.7%.</p> <p>Such positive figures come as a result of the city’s campaigns to promote its image, an endeavour to open new flight routes connecting the city with Bangkok and Taiwan, China and the efforts of the city’s tourist support centre.</p> <p>Da Nang has also worked with the provinces of Thua Thien-Hue and Quang Nam and travel agencies to diversify tour packages, and with the EU to enhance the capacity of its tourism staff.</p> <p>In addition, CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the city to ensure a safe environment for tourists.</p> <p>Last month, Da Nang was named Asia’s leading festival and event destination at the World Travel Awards ceremony.</p> <p>The city has set a target of attracting 6.1 million visitors in 2017, including 1.9 million foreign tourists, by stepping up its promotion programmes in key markets in East Asia and Southeast Asia and expanding to new markets in Europe and North America, as well as India.</p> <p>Da Nang’s tourism sector in 2017 is also expected to be buoyed by its hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and the annual firework festival.</p> <br /> Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ift.tt/1eWmqbm" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations

Da Nang welcomes 5.51 million visitors, beating expectations Foreign arrivals are estimated to increase by 31.6% to about 1.66 million, whil...

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English website promotes Vietnamese tourism

English website promotes Vietnamese tourism <p>PANO – The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) launched a new website, <a href="http://bit.ly/2faqCLH">http://bit.ly/2faqCLH</a>, in English to promote the Vietnamese tourism abroad during the World Travel Market, which was held in London on November 8.</p> <p>The website is expected to attract at least 10 million visits per year by its modern and eye-catching web interface.</p> <div style="width: 510px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img alt="" src="http://bit.ly/2fSslGf" width="500" /> <p class="wp-caption-text">The web interface</p> </div> <p>Enjoying, discovering, and sharing are what tourists and those interested in traveling in Vietnam can find via this website by different categories like “charm your senses”, “places to go”, “things to do”, and “plan your trip”. In addition, the website is connected to official social networking channels of VNAT, including Facebook, Instagram and Youtube, allowing visitors to share travel information about Vietnam with others worldwide.</p> <p>According to Nguyen Van Tuan, VNAT’s Director General, the website addresses three key issues of promoting the Vietnamese tourism, namelyinvestment attraction, professional promotion, and the internet.</p> <p>Tourists at home and abroad may find articles about different regions of Vietnam and activities they can enjoy in the country, written by well-known tourism bloggers and journalists worldwide; such as Anthony Bourdain – a famous American chef and television personality, Ryan Deboodt – a photographer with videos and stunning images on Son Doong Cave, or Greg Norman -an Australian professional golfer.</p> <p><em><strong>Translated by Hong Thanh</strong></em></p> <br /> English website promotes Vietnamese tourism Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2fSslGf" width="200" /><br />

English website promotes Vietnamese tourism

English website promotes Vietnamese tourism PANO – The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) launched a new website, http://bit....

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Vietnam squad leaves for AFF Cup

Vietnam squad leaves for AFF Cup <p><em>A Vietnamese squad including 25 footballers and coaches has departed for Myanmar for the 2016 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Cup taking place from November 19 to December 17.</em></p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 1" src="http://bit.ly/2gdILg0" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>The Vietnamese squad was present at Tan Son Nhat Airport on November 15 morning before flying to Myanmar. Pictured is Thanh Luong (Left) and Cong Vinh (Right).</em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 2" src="http://bit.ly/2fSsTvE" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>Trong Hoang (Left), Tran Nguyen Manh (Centre) and Nguyen Van Toan (Right)</em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 3" src="http://bit.ly/2gdNxtV" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>Light suitcases are right travel luggage.</em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 4" src="http://bit.ly/2fSstVW" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>Coach Nguyen Huu Thang (in white T-shirt)</em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 5" src="http://bit.ly/2gdN4bn" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>Coach Huu Thang has shortlisted 25 players who fly with him to Myanmar including 3 goalkeepers, 9 defenders, 8 midfielders and 5 strikers.</em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><br /></em></p> <p><em><img alt="vietnam squad leaves for aff cup hinh 6" src="http://bit.ly/2fStSvR" /><br /></em></p> <p><em>They have completed an intensive training for AFF Cup. German expert Martin Forkel (Left) participates in the training.</em></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><em>Zing/VOV</em></p> <br /> Vietnam squad leaves for AFF Cup Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://bit.ly/2gdILg0" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam squad leaves for AFF Cup

Vietnam squad leaves for AFF Cup A Vietnamese squad including 25 footballers and coaches has departed for Myanmar for the 2016 ASEAN Footbal...

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