Vietnam’s tourism benefits from Asian market

Vietnam’s tourism benefits from Asian market <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>International tourists at Reunification Palace in HCM City’s District 1 -Photo: Dao Loan</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Data from the General Statistics Office show that over 11.6 million international tourists entered Vietnam during the nine-month period, up 22.9% year-on-year, with more than nine million visitors coming from Asian countries, rising by 27.2%.</p> <p>In Asia, Chinese andKorean tourists accounted for over two-thirds of the country’s total arrivals. Also, Vietnam welcomed 3.8 million Chinese tourists, up 29.7% and more than 2.56 million Korean travelers, surging by 49.6% over the January-September period.</p> <p>The Asian market makes up a large market share in Vietnam due to the region’s geographical proximity to Vietnam and its large tourist source. However, the country’s tourism sector heavily depends upon the Chinese and Korean markets, as a majority of tourists come from these two countries.</p> <p>Travel firms suggested tourism authorities to seek ways for tapping other markets with significant potentials, in a bid to raise the number of arrivals and diversify the markets.</p> <p>Although many Japanese travelers prefer Vietnam as a destination of choice, the growth of Japanese arrivals has slowed. Some 623,700 Japanese tourists traveled to the country over the past nine months, up only 4.2% year-on-year. Many Japanese firms attributed the slow growth to Vietnam’s failure in meeting Japanese tourists’ tastes and an absence of social networking services and communication apps.</p> <p>For example, many Japanese people are greatly impacted by various photos and videos about trips posted on some social media, such as Line and Instagram, but Vietnam has yet to access these advertising channels for the tourism sector.</p> <p>Nguyen Son Thuy, director at Indochina Unique Tourist Co. Ltd., said there were many potential source markets in Southeast Asia for Vietnam to develop its tourism sector. Taking Thailand as an example, Thuy said that many Thai tourists tend to visit some destinations in Central Vietnam.</p> <p>A series of air routes opened to link these localities and Thailand has recently encouraged the country’s tourism sector. Thuy also suggested that more promotional programs and tourism activities should be carried out to turn Vietnam into an attractive tourist destination for Thai visitors.</p> <p>“The company welcomes some 4,000 Thai travelers to Danang City and some localities in Central Vietnam each month,” Thuy said, adding that a Thai travel firm has come to Vietnam under the company’s arrangement to survey destinations and research products.</p> <p>The data also indicated that the number of European and American tourists to Vietnam increased modestly over the January-September period. Over 1.53 million European travelers arrived in the country, up 9.8% year-on-year, while American arrivals amounted to 528,600, rising 14.1% against the same period last year.</p> </div> <br /> Vietnam’s tourism benefits from Asian market Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam’s tourism benefits from Asian market

Vietnam’s tourism benefits from Asian market International tourists at Reunification Palace in HCM City’s District 1 -Photo: Dao Loan Data from the General Statistics Office show that over 11.6 million international tourists entered Vietnam during the nine-month period, up 22.9% year-on-year, with m…

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Tourism industry earns VND 451, 200 billion in revenue

Tourism industry earns VND 451, 200 billion in revenue <div> <div> <div>The number of international tourist arrivals to Vietnam in September was around 1,212,597 declined by 8.4 percent compared to August and up 24.2 percent compared to the same period in the last year.</div> <div>More than 985,000 foreign visitors to Vietnam arriving via air was up 18.5 percent compared to September last year, accounted for 81.2 percent while the number of tourists coming by sea and land were 8,090 and 219,432 respectively; 18.9 percent decrease of travelers coming by sea, accounted for 0.7 percent and 62.7 percent rise rise in tourists coming by land and accounted for 18.1 percent.</div> <div>The number of international visitors to Vietnam in the first 9 months estimated at 11,616,490, up 22.9 percent compared to the same period in the previous year. Of which, 9,407.391 travelers chose to fly to Vietnam, up 17.4 percent compared to this time last year; while the number of visitors coming by sea and land were 190,805 and 2,018,294 tourists, up 0.5 percent and 62.1 percent respectively.</div> <div>As of September, the number of visitors from South Korea increased most by 49.6 percent, Finland 33.8 percent, China 29.7 percent, Hong Kong (China) 29.4 percent, Denmark 16.4 percent, Taiwan (China) 15.1 percent, Italia 14.4 percent, Sweden 14.2 percent, the US 14.1 percent, Malaysia 14 percent and Africa 19.5 percent.</div> <div>The number of international visitors from Laos and Cambodia decreased by 16.7 percent and 8.1 percent compared to the same period in the previous year.</div> <div>The number of domestic travelers reached 62.1 million, including 30.2 million long-staying tourists. Total revenue of Vietnam’s tourism industry was estimated at  VND 451,200 billion in the first 9 months.</div> <p>By MAI AN – Translated by Kim Khanh</p> </div> <div> <h3>Tags:</h3> <div><a>Tourism industry</a> <a>visitors in the first 9 months</a> <a>The number of international visitors</a></div> </div> </div> <br /> Tourism industry earns VND 451, 200 billion in revenue Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Tourism industry earns VND 451, 200 billion in revenue

Tourism industry earns VND 451, 200 billion in revenue The number of international tourist arrivals to Vietnam in September was around 1,212,597 declined by 8.4 percent compared to August and up 24.2 percent compared to the same period in the last year. More than 985,000 foreign visitors to Vietnam …

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Direct flight from Phu Quoc to Seoul to open in December

Direct flight from Phu Quoc to Seoul to open in December <div> <p>A new flight route is also to contribute to boosting trade in the region.</p> <p>The new flights will be put into service on December 22, 2018 with traveling time of 5 hours 30 minutes.</p> <p>The flights will departure from Phu Quoc at 15:30pm and arrive in Seoul at 22:45pm (local time). The return flights will take off in Seoul at 01:45am (local time) and land in Phu Quoc at 5:35am.</p> <p>M.TRAM –Translated by M.Quyen</p> </div> <br /> Direct flight from Phu Quoc to Seoul to open in December Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Direct flight from Phu Quoc to Seoul to open in December

Direct flight from Phu Quoc to Seoul to open in December A new flight route is also to contribute to boosting trade in the region. The new flights will be put into service on December 22, 2018 with traveling time of 5 hours 30 minutes. The flights will departure from Phu Quoc at 15:30pm and arrive i…

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Open-top double-decker bus tour to be launched in major cities

Open-top double-decker bus tour to be launched in major cities <div> <div>The  “City Tour” bus line will connect sightseeing places, tourist sites and entertainment areas in the inner cities and provinces of Hanoi, Quang Ninh, Quang Nam, Da Nang, Thua Thien-Hue, Lam Dong, Kien Giang and HCM City.</div> <div>Travel businesses have to ensure safety for travelers and send reports of the operation to the Departments of Transport; the Departments of Culture, Sport and Tourism; and the Directorate for Roads of Vietnam on the 25th of every month.</div> <div>The experimental project will be run for five years.</div> <p>By QUOC HUNG – Translated by Kim Khanh</p> </div> <br /> Open-top double-decker bus tour to be launched in major cities Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Open-top double-decker bus tour to be launched in major cities

Open-top double-decker bus tour to be launched in major cities The  “City Tour” bus line will connect sightseeing places, tourist sites and entertainment areas in the inner cities and provinces of Hanoi, Quang Ninh, Quang Nam, Da Nang, Thua Thien-Hue, Lam Dong, Kien Giang and HCM City. Travel busine…

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New city bus tour to be launched in Hanoi

New city bus tour to be launched in Hanoi <div> <p>Hanoi Joint Stock Company is planning to launch a new city bus tour on October 10.</p> <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Each double-decker bus can accommodate 80 passengers.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The capital’s second double-decker bus route will operate from 9am to 5:30pm daily at 30-minute intervals. Along the 14.8km route, there will be 10 stops for tourists to hop-on and hop-off.</p> <p>The company is yet to announce ticket prices but confirmed that prices would not be subsidised to ensure the company makes a profit.</p> <p>On May 30, Hanoi launched its first double-decker city tour, with hop-on and hop-off at 13 stops, running through 25 streets and taking tourists to 30 destinations in the city.</p> <p>The buses run every 30 minutes from 9am to 5pm, and are equipped with an automatic multi-lingual system in Vietnamese, English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.</p> <p>The first city tour bus service provided by the Hanoi ransport & Services Corporation offers four-hour tours starting from VNĐ300,000 (US$13.3), VNĐ450,000 ($20) for 24 hours and VNĐ650,000 ($28.8) for 48 hours.</p> <p>According to the company, there are about seven passengers on every double-decker bus per trip, and they usually hop on and off 6.5 times on average.</p> </div> <p>VNA</p> </div> </div> <br /> New city bus tour to be launched in Hanoi Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

New city bus tour to be launched in Hanoi

New city bus tour to be launched in Hanoi Hanoi Joint Stock Company is planning to launch a new city bus tour on October 10. Each double-decker bus can accommodate 80 passengers. The capital’s second double-decker bus route will operate from 9am to 5:30pm daily at 30-minute intervals. Along the 14.8…

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New cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc

New cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc <div> <p>Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort and Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay has announced Nguyen Vu Dan Chau as the new cluster director of marketing, responsible for leading all the marketing, communications, and branding activities of the two properties.</p> <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Nguyen Vu Dan Chau, the new cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Chau joins Premier Village Phu Quoc with eight years of professional experience at international brands, seven years among which were dedicated to the hospitality field. Her most recent journey was with Le Méridien Saigon, a Marriott International brand that strives to ignite creativity and a sense of discovery in travellers.</p> <p>Prior to Le Méridien Saigon, she had been marketing manager of The Coffee Bean, Moevenpick Hotel Saigon, and Grand Mercure Danang. Through the journey, she gained extensive skills and knowledge in branding, digital marketing, public relations, advertising, and strategic planning, as well as the concrete foundations of hotel operations.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Premier Village Phu Quoc from above</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>“Chau has a passion for marketing and inspiring people. She places great emphasis on boosting the spirit of her team and fostering their personal development with strategic planning at all phases. Such congenial attitude towards all company members and genuine dedication to the brand have won my trust and convinced me to choose her for my team,” Heami Chung, cluster director of sales and marketing for Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort and Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, shared.</p> <p>Joining the management team in this new AccorHotels family, Chau sets her heart on making a significant contribution to revenue increase and brand growth. “There is ample space to explore and exciting stories to unfold about this island and these two new resorts. It is not only the distinctive experience inside the resort, but also the unexpected aspects of the whole destination that I want my guests to discover,” shared the new director.</p> </div> <p>By <a>Thai An</a></p> </div> </div> <br /> New cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

New cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc

New cluster director of marketing at Premier Village Phu Quoc Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort and Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay has announced Nguyen Vu Dan Chau as the new cluster director of marketing, responsible for leading all the marketing, communications, and branding activities of t…

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Phu Tho province works to tap tourism potential

Phu Tho province works to tap tourism potential <div> <div> <div><span>At a cultural camp in Phu Tho (Source: VNA)</span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Phu Tho (VNA)</strong> – Bestowed with an array of world and national cultural heritages, the northern midland province of Phu Tho is looking for breakthrough measures to capitalise on its strength to become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists. <p>According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the province is currently home to 1,372 historical and cultural sites, including Hung Kings Temple special relic site, and three UNESCO intangible cultural heritages of the worshipping rituals of the Hung Kings, Xoan folk singing, and ca tru-ceremonial singing.</p> <p>Xuan Son National Park, which boasts diverse ecosystems, untouched natural beauty, and cultural identities of ethnic people, is a fascinating tourism magnet. It is among 13 national parks in Vietnam that protect large habitats of natural ecosystems.</p> <p>In addition, Thanh Thuy hot mineral water mine, Tam Giang pagoda, Mother Au Co Temple, and Ao Chau lagoon all together create conditions for the province to branch out various kinds of tourism products like eco-tourism, historical-cultural tourism, and resort tourism.</p> <p>Grasping local tourism potential, the tourism sector integrated the “Xoan singing in ancient village” into its cultural heritage tours, and the outcomes were incredible as to local tourism destinations like Hung Lo communal house and Lai Len shrine in Viet Tri city, Do Nghia communal house in Lam Thao district has become popular to domestic and foreign visitors.</p> <p>Besides ancient Xoan singing, visitors will have a chance to have a look at historical and cultural relic sites built during the time of Hung Kings.</p> <p>Director of the province’s centre for tourism promotion Phung Thi Hoa Le said that thanks to the availability of the tours, more tourists are coming to the locality. The centre welcomes an average 2 million visitors each year, nearly 8,000 of them come to explore the Vietnamese folk music.</p> <p>Various travel companies have developed tours featuring Xoan singing like Vietrantour, Saigontourist and Golden tour, she said.</p> <p>The centre also designs new tourism products to attract more tourists and introduce to travel agencies. Now, Gia Thanh conical hat village in Phu Ninh district, Dich Qua tea hills in Thanh Son district, Tam Giang temple in Viet Tri city, Dao Xa communal house in Thanh Thuy district and Du Yen temple are ready to welcome tourists.</p> <p>In addition, the province is working to promote products linking local tourism sites like Hung King Temple-Hung Vuong Museum-Hung Lo communal house in Viet Tri city, Xuan Son National Park-Thanh Thuy hot mineral water spring, and Mother Au Co temple- Ao Chau lagoon tourism site. It has joined hands with neighbouring provinces of Lao Cai and Yen Bai to branch out spiritual tours along Hong River.</p> <p>Signing cooperation programmes with foreign travel companies in the Republic of Korea, Indonesia and India, and partnership in tourism programmes with localities across the country are significant moves to popularize local tourism sites.</p> <p>This year, the tourism sector of the province eyes to welcome 580,000 visitors, up 5.4 percent from the yearly plan, and expects to earn 3.8 trillion VND (159.6 million USD).-VNA</p> </div> </div> <br /> Phu Tho province works to tap tourism potential Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Phu Tho province works to tap tourism potential

Phu Tho province works to tap tourism potential At a cultural camp in Phu Tho (Source: VNA)   Phu Tho (VNA) – Bestowed with an array of world and national cultural heritages, the northern midland province of Phu Tho is looking for breakthrough measures to capitalise on its strength to become a must-…

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Thua Thien-Hue honors outstanding tourism businesses

Thua Thien-Hue honors outstanding tourism businesses <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>At the ceremony</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Accordingly, the awards for leading hotel operators were presented to Laguna Vietnam, and Kinh Thanh Hotel.</p> <p>The top seven travel agents honored this year include Vietnam Travel and Marketing Transports (Vietravel), Vietnamtourism Hanoi JSC, Apex Viet Nam Travel, Viet Media Travel, Saigontourist Travel Service’s Da Nang chapter, Vidotour Indochina Travel, and HG Hue JSC.</p> <p>The top catering service provider award was handed over to DMZ Tourist, while Thien Huong received the title of top shopping service. The transport services award was presented to Phuong Ty Co.</p> <p>Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Dung, who is also head of the organizing board, said the Thua Thien-Hue tourism awards aim to improve the quality of tourism services in the province.</p> <p>Thua Thien-Hue aims to attract 4-4.2 million visitors this year, which would be a rise of 10-12 percent year-on-year, with about 40-45 percent being foreigners. It hopes to record a 15 percent increase in tourism revenue to 4.2-4.3 trillion VND (184-189 million USD).</p> <p>From the outset of the year, the province has organized a string of activities including cultural festivities, art performances, and cuisine festivals to lure more tourists to the locality.</p> <p>It has also been raising the region’s attractiveness with public decorations, such as dressing the the Ky Dai (Flag Tower) with 1,000 LED lights and firing cannons from the tower.</p> <p>The province recently approved a project worth 27 billion VND (1.15 million USD) to light up Dai Noi (Imperial Citadel) with LED bulbs to create another visual highlight for the city.</p> <p>Thua Thien-Hue is working to improve its tourism portal in Vietnamese and English, linking with the portals of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, as well as other localities and international cities to promote its tourism.</p> <p>In the first nine months of 2018, Thua Thien-Hue welcomed nearly 3.5 million visitors, including 1.42 foreigners. Tourism revenue is so-far estimated at 3.38 trillion VND (144.67 million USD), up about 30.5 percent year-on-year.</p> <p><em><strong>Source: VNA</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Thua Thien-Hue honors outstanding tourism businesses Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Thua Thien-Hue honors outstanding tourism businesses

Thua Thien-Hue honors outstanding tourism businesses At the ceremony Accordingly, the awards for leading hotel operators were presented to Laguna Vietnam, and Kinh Thanh Hotel. The top seven travel agents honored this year include Vietnam Travel and Marketing Transports (Vietravel), Vietnamtourism H…

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Vietnam welcomes 11.6 million foreign tourists in nine months

Vietnam welcomes 11.6 million foreign tourists in nine months <div> <div><span>Tourists at King Dinh Tien Hoang’s Temple. (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA) –</strong> The number of international tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the third quarter of this year increased 14.9 percent against the same period last year, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO).</p> <p>However, the figure was still lower than those in the first and second quarters which stood at 30.9 percent and 23.1 percent, respectively.</p> <p>Between January and September, Vietnam welcomed some 11.61 million foreign holiday-makers, a year-on-year rise of 22.9 percent, with visitors by air, road and sea up 17.4 percent, 62.1 percent and 0.5 percent, respectively.</p> <p>Tourists from Asia rose 27.2 percent; Europe, 9.8 percent; America, 12.5 percent; Oceania, 6.3 percent; and Africa, 19.5 percent.</p> <p>In September, the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) conducted various activities in foreign markets in an effort to attract international vacationers.</p> <p>Also this month, the agency held tourism promotion activities for the first time in Canada on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties (1973-2018).</p> <p>Vietnam’s policies, destinations, tourism products and services for foreign tourists were introduced in the Canadian market.</p> <p>In Asia, apart from China, the Philippines, Vietnam and Japan record a high rise in the number of Canadian visitors, said the VNAT’s Tourism Marketing Department.</p> <p>The VNAT plans to team up with the US Travel Association and the Hanoi Promotion Agency to organise a tourism promotion programme in Washington DC and New York.</p> <p>The US has remained one of Vietnam’s top five tourism markets with the number of vacationers to the country exceeding 614,000 in 2017, up 11 percent against 2016. As of August 2018, Vietnam had served 486,000 US holiday-makers, a year-on-year increase of 14.5 percent.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Vietnam welcomes 11.6 million foreign tourists in nine months Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam welcomes 11.6 million foreign tourists in nine months

Vietnam welcomes 11.6 million foreign tourists in nine months Tourists at King Dinh Tien Hoang’s Temple. (Photo: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – The number of international tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the third quarter of this year increased 14.9 percent against the same period last year, according to the Gen…

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Binh Thuan welcomes 4 million tourist arrivals in first nine months

Binh Thuan welcomes 4 million tourist arrivals in first nine months <div> <div><span>A view of Mui Ne beach. (Photo: kenhdulich.org)<br /></span></div> <p><strong>Binh Thuan (VNA)</strong> – The south central coastal province of Binh Thuan welcomed more than 4 million tourists in the first three quarters of 2018, up 11 percent from the same period last year.</p> <p>The number included approximately half a million foreigners, mostly Russian and Chinese, up 13 percent year on year, according to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The province earned about 9.5 trillion VND (404.5 million USD) in revenue from tourism, up 20 percent.</p> <p>Most domestic visitors to Binh Thuan were from southern provinces that came for summer vacations and during public holidays, like Tet (Vietnamese traditional New Year) thanks to its sunny weather year-round.</p> <p>The province has 468 accommodation facilities, offering more than 14,600 guest rooms, including 129 hotels rated 1 – 5 star. Some 390 tourism projects, worth more than 59 trillion VND (2.51 billion USD), are being operated in the province. These include 23 foreign projects with total investment of 13 trillion VND (553.5 million USD).</p> <p>In recent years, Binh Thuan has made efforts to make tourism a key local industry. The province has added more tourism services in terms of transportation, shopping and underwater sports to serve the increasing demand of holidaymakers.</p> <p>It has also ramped up activities to promote local tourist attractions and expand cooperation with other popular destinations in the south central coast and Mekong Delta.</p> <p>Inspections have been intensified on tour operators and lodging providers to ensure they comply with related regulations while more lifeguards and fire fighters have been employed to ensure safety.</p> <p>Binh Thuan is among Vietnam’s top tourist destinations thanks to its long and stunning beaches, friendly locals and safe environment.</p> <p>The province’s most popular beach is Mui Ne in the coastal city of Phan Thiet, which is set to become the main resort centre of Binh Thuan by 2025.</p> <p>This year, the province aims to receive about 5.75 million visitors, including 670,000 foreign travellers, and generate 12.85 trillion VND (547.1 million USD) in tourism revenue. –VNA </p> </div> <br /> Binh Thuan welcomes 4 million tourist arrivals in first nine months Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Binh Thuan welcomes 4 million tourist arrivals in first nine months

Binh Thuan welcomes 4 million tourist arrivals in first nine months A view of Mui Ne beach. (Photo: kenhdulich.org) Binh Thuan (VNA) – The south central coastal province of Binh Thuan welcomed more than 4 million tourists in the first three quarters of 2018, up 11 percent from the same period last y…

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Thua Thien-Hue honours outstanding tourism businesses

Thua Thien-Hue honours outstanding tourism businesses <div> <div> <div><span> Top seven travel agents were honoured in Thua Thien-Hue tourism awards this year (Photo: VNA)</span></div> </div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Thua Thien – Hue (VNA) –</strong> Outstanding tourism businesses were honoured during a ceremony held on September 27 by the People’s Committee of the central province of Thua Thien-Hue. <p>Accordingly, the awards for leading hotel operators were presented to Laguna Vietnam, and Kinh Thanh Hotel.</p> <p>The top seven travel agents honoured this year include Vietnam Travel and Marketing Transports (Vietravel), Vietnamtourism Hanoi JSC, Apex Viet Nam Travel, Viet Media Travel, Saigontourist Travel Service’s Da Nang chapter, Vidotour Indochina Travel, and HG Hue JSC.</p> <p>The top catering service provider award was handed over to DMZ Tourist, while Thien Huong received the title of top shopping service. The transport services award was presented to Phuong Ty Co.</p> <p>Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Dung, who is also head of the organising board, said the Thua Thien-Hue tourism awards aim to improve the quality of tourism services in the province.</p> <p>Thua Thien-Hue aims to attract 4-4.2 million visitors this year, which would be a rise of 10-12 percent year-on-year, with about 40-45 percent being foreigners. It hopes to record a 15 percent increase in tourism revenue to 4.2-4.3 trillion VND (184-189 million USD).</p> <p>From the outset of the year, the province has organised a string of activities including cultural festivities, art performances, and cuisine festivals to lure more tourists to the locality.</p> <p>It has also been raising the region’s attractiveness with public decorations, such as dressing the the Ky Dai (Flag Tower) with 1,000 LED lights and firing cannons from the tower.</p> <p>The province recently approved a project worth 27 billion VND (1.15 million USD) to light up Dai Noi (Imperial Citadel) with LED bulbs to create another visual highlight for the city. </p> <p>Thua Thien-Hue is working to improve its tourism portal in Vietnamese and English, linking with the portals of the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, as well as other localities and international cities to promote its tourism.</p> <p>In the first nine months of 2018, Thua Thien-Hue welcomed nearly 3.5 million visitors, including 1.42 foreigners. Tourism revenue is so-far estimated at 3.38 trillion VND (144.67 million USD), up about 30.5 percent year-on-year. –VNA </p> </div> </div> <br /> Thua Thien-Hue honours outstanding tourism businesses Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Thua Thien-Hue honours outstanding tourism businesses

Thua Thien-Hue honours outstanding tourism businesses  Top seven travel agents were honoured in Thua Thien-Hue tourism awards this year (Photo: VNA)   Thua Thien – Hue (VNA) – Outstanding tourism businesses were honoured during a ceremony held on September 27 by the People’s Committee of the central…

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Vietnam Tourism Roadshow held in Indonesia

Vietnam Tourism Roadshow held in Indonesia <div> <div><span>Foreign tourists visit Hoi An ancient town – a tourist attraction in Vietnam (Source: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Jakarta (VNA)</strong> – A Vietnam Tourism Roadshow was held in Bandung, Indonesia on September 26 with the aim to promote the image of Vietnam to Indonesians.</p> <p>The event was part of the programme held from September 23-29 to introduce a friendly and attractive Vietnam to ASEAN member states, focusing on the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia.</p> <p>It attracted the participation of over 100 delegates representing Indonesia’s travel agents and enterprises operating in the hospitality industry and international airlines.</p> <p>Speaking at the event, Ngo Hoai Chung, deputy head of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, said that Vietnam is not only one of the fastest developing economies in Southeast Asia with an average annual growth rate of 7 percent, but also an attractive destination which welcomed 13 million foreign tourists in 2017.</p> <p>Last year, Vietnam was ranked sixth in Top 10 fastest-growing tourist destinations by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).</p> <p>Recently, the country was honoured as a leading tourist destination in Asia in the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2018, Chung said.</p> <p>He stressed the Roadshow is designed to introduce Vietnam’s tourism products, tourist attractions and opportunities to invest in the Vietnamese market.</p> <p>It was also a venue for Vietnamese and Indonesian tourism managers and businesses to meet and discuss cooperation opportunities, he added.</p> <p>Participants in the event were introduced to the beauty of Vietnamese land and people through video clips and art performances.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Vietnam Tourism Roadshow held in Indonesia Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam Tourism Roadshow held in Indonesia

Vietnam Tourism Roadshow held in Indonesia Foreign tourists visit Hoi An ancient town – a tourist attraction in Vietnam (Source: VNA) Jakarta (VNA) – A Vietnam Tourism Roadshow was held in Bandung, Indonesia on September 26 with the aim to promote the image of Vietnam to Indonesians. The event was p…

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Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges

Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges <div> <p>The journey from Hanoi heads first for Hue, which has gained fame for “ancient temples and tombs” before stopping at Hoi An, an ancient town lined with “riverside cafés, colonial architecture and a patchwork of rice paddies and sandy beach.”</p> <p>The cyclists continue by pedaling down to Da Nang and My Son, which is a UNESCO heritage site in the central province of Quang Nam and home to Cham remains, before dropping by Nha Trang’s beaches. </p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <p>Da Nang, a top destination in central Vietnam, is famous for the icon of Dragon Bridge.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>“The last stop is Ho Chi Minh City where there’s time to reflect on your achievement,” the newspaper said.</p> <p><em>The Telegraph</em> list of 20 must-try charity challenges also include a trek up the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, a nine-day trek along the Great Wall of China and a bike ride from London to Paris. </p> <p>Readers of leading global travel website <em>TripAdvisor</em> last month <a>ranked Vietnam third in the 10 top adventure destinations</a> around the world.</p> <p>A global report published last month by the United Nations World Tourism Organization ranked Vietnam’s tourism growth as fourth in the world, with the country’s visitor numbers growing at one of the fastest rates in the world.</p> <p>Vietnam was also chosen “<a>Asia’s Leading Destination</a>” at the 2018 World Travel Awards in Hong Kong.</p> <div> <div> <div> <div> <h4><a>Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges</a></h4> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div>Vietnam seen from above</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <br /> Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges

Trans-Vietnam cycle journey touted among world’s top charity challenges The journey from Hanoi heads first for Hue, which has gained fame for “ancient temples and tombs” before stopping at Hoi An, an ancient town lined with “riverside cafés, colonial architecture and a patchwork of rice paddies and …

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Japanese travel agencies on FAM trip to experience Hue

Japanese travel agencies on FAM trip to experience Hue <div> <div><span>The Meridian Gate, the main gate to the Hue Imperial City, at night. (Photo: VNA)<br /></span></div> <p><strong>Thua Thien-Hue (VNA)</strong> – A delegation of 11 Japanese travel agencies made a familiarisation (FAM) trip to the city of Hue, in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue, on September 23-25 to experience the local tourist attractions and culture.</p> <p>The trip, organised by the provincial Department of Tourism and the APEX Vietnam Travel Corporation, took them to the Complex of Hue Monuments, the Phan Boi Chau Memorial House, the Thanh Tien paper flower craft village, the Bao La bamboo weaving village, and Laguna Lang Co Resort. The Japanese tour operators also experienced Hue’s distinctive cuisine and enjoyed an “ao dai” (Vietnamese traditional gown) fashion show.</p> <p>They had a working session with the provincial Department of Tourism to learn firsthand about investment in the province and how to connect and develop tourism products with local travel agencies in order to provide services to Japanese travellers as the city of Hue has seen an increase in the arrival of Japanese visitors in recent years.</p> <p>Thua Thien-Hue has made multiple efforts to develop and improve tourism products and services to lure more visitors from key markets, including Japan, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, France, the United Kingdom, Russia, the United States, and Canada. The province has ramped up the promotion of its popular destinations at travel fairs, particularly those overseas, to try and seek foreign partnerships.</p> <p>It has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to launch the exclusive website http://bit.ly/2nvbFXx, providing Japanese travellers with all they need to know about Hue, such as popular attractions, cuisine, culture, and lodging.</p> <p>The province has also focused on developing transport infrastructure connecting tourist spots and building ports at lagoons to better serve holidaymakers while the main streets and attractions have been lit up at night during the weekends and holidays.</p> <p>Japanese tourists now rank eighth amongst the top foreign visitors to Thua Thien-Hue.</p> <p>Hue city was the imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty for over a century from 1802 to 1945.</p> <p>It is home to five UNESCO-recognised aspects of heritage, namely the Complex of Hue Monuments (World Heritage Site); “Nha nhac”, or Vietnamese court music (Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity); the woodblocks of the Nguyen Dynasty (part of the Memory of the World Programme); the imperial archives of the Nguyen Dynasty (part of the Memory of the World Programme); and the Literature on Hue Royal Architecture (part of Documentary Heritage in the Memory of the World Programme).</p> <p>It is also famous for its elegant royal cuisine, which was served to the kings of Nguyen Dynasty. Some Hue dishes have been listed as the country’s best foods by Vietnam’s Record Book such as bun bo (beef noodles), com hen (rice with mussels), banh beo (rice cake with grilled shrimp), banh bot loc (dumplings with shrimp), banh khoai (fried rice crepes), che hat sen (sweet lotus seed pudding), and tom chua (pickled shrimp)</p> <p>In the first nine months of 2018, Thua Thien-Hue welcomed nearly 3.5 million visitors, including 1.42 million foreigners. It earned roughly 3.38 trillion VND (144.8 million USD) in revenue from tourism, up 30.5 percent from the same period last year.</p> <p>The province aims to lure between 4 and 4.2 million visitors this year, up 10 – 12 percent from 2017, with around 40 – 45 percent being foreigners. –VNA </p> </div> <br /> Japanese travel agencies on FAM trip to experience Hue Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Japanese travel agencies on FAM trip to experience Hue

Japanese travel agencies on FAM trip to experience Hue The Meridian Gate, the main gate to the Hue Imperial City, at night. (Photo: VNA) Thua Thien-Hue (VNA) – A delegation of 11 Japanese travel agencies made a familiarisation (FAM) trip to the city of Hue, in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue,…

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Witness to a century of change: Hanoi’s iconic structures – VnExpress International

Witness to a century of change: Hanoi’s iconic structures – VnExpress International <div> <div> <div><a><span>Back to English</span></a> <a><span>Comments</span></a></div> </div> <div> <div> <div><a>Travel</a> – September 25, 2018 | 02:41 pm GMT+7</div> </div> </div> <div> <h2><b>Eleven architectural marvels that have defied time and stood amid the capital city’s makeover.</b></h2> </div> <div> <div> <h3>The Huc Bridge</h3> </div> <div> <p>The Huc Bridge was built during the reign of King Tu Duc of the Nguyen dynasty in 1865. It leads to the Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake in downtown Hanoi.</p> <p>The bridge is made up of 15 spans with round wooden logs arranged into 16 pairs. It was painted in red, and its name is gilded in gold.</p> <p>The bridge has undergone two refurbishments since its construction, the first in 1897 and the second in 1952 after a span broke on Lunar New Year’s Eve under a crush of visitors. Under the supervision of architect Nguyen Ba Lang, the foundations of the bridge are now cast in cement instead of wood.</p> <p><b>Hanoi Opera House</b></p> </div> <div><span>It is situated in Cach Mang Thang Tam Square at the end of Trang Tien Street in the central district of Hoan Kiem.</span></div> <div> <p><span>The Hanoi Opera House was built by French architects in 1911, a smaller replica of the Opéra Garnier House in Paris with materials appropriate for the local climate.</span></p> <p><span>Hanoi Opera House has become one of the symbols of the city.</span></p> </div> <p><b>  Quan Chuong Gate</b></p> <div><span>Also called Dong Ha Gate, Quan Chuong Gate is located on the east side of the courthouse surrounding the Thang Long Citadel. It was built in 1749 and rebuilt in 1817. This is the only remaining gate of the Thang Long Citadel, now called Hanoi. Quan Chuong gate is on Quan Chuong Street at the beginning of Hang Chieu Street near the foot of the Chuong Duong Bridge.</span></div> <p><b>  Headquarters of Ministry of Foreign Affairs</b></p> <div>The headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or <i>the house of a hundred roofs</i>, is situated at the junction of Dien Bien Phu and Ton That Dam streets.</div> <div> <p>It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Hanoi. In the past the building was the headquarters of the Indochina Department of Finance, and from October 3, 1945, was the head office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.</p> <p>It was designed by Ernest Hebrard in 1924, construction began in 1925, and it was ready for use in 1928.</p> </div> <p><b>  Hoa Phong Tower</b></p> <div><span>Hoa Phong Tower is located on Dinh Tien Hoang Street to the south of Hoan Kiem Lake. It is a remnant of Bao An Pagoda, a large pagoda built in 1842. In 1888 the French colonialists destroyed the pagoda to build the Hanoi post office.</span></div> <div>The pagoda used to face Hoan Kiem lake with the Red River at its back. There used to be 36 houses inside the pagoda, but only Hoa Phong tower remains today. It has three stories. Its first floor has four doors, earning the tower the name “four-door tower”, an architectural style common in Buddhist structures.</div> <p><b>Long Bien Bridge</b></p> </div> <div> <p>The first steel bridge over the Red River was built by French architects between 1898 and 1902. Over the course of its history Long Bien Bridge has been damaged several times. It has become a historical site, a symbol of Hanoi.</p> <p>The bridge has a rail track and two road lanes. All the construction materials – 30,000 cubic meters of stone and 5,300 tons of steel and blue stones – were brought from France.</p> <p>At the beginning of the 20th century Long Bien was the longest and most beautiful steel bridge in Indochina, according to the National Archive.</p> <p><b>Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel</b></p> </div> <div><span>The hotel is situated in the heart of Hanoi near Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi Opera House. The hotel, in old French architectural style, was built in 1901 by two French investors. Sofitel Metropole Hanoi has always been considered the accommodation of choice for business people and tourists. The first five-star hotel in Hanoi, it has hosted many famous figures and international politicians throughout its history.<br /></span><span>These days it is consistently voted as one of the leading hotels in Asia.</span></div> <div> <p><b>Quan Thanh Temple</b></p> </div> <div><span>Quan Thanh Temple, also called Tran Vu Quan, was built during the reign of Ly Thai To (1010 – 1028). The temple venerates Huyen Thien Tran Vu, one of the four gods guarding the four gates of the Thang Long Citadel, Hanoi’s former avatar.</span></div> <div> <p><span>The temple is situated near West Lake, and together with Kim Lien Pagoda and Tran Quoc Pagoda creates harmonious landscape architecture for the area. Quan Thanh Temple is located on what is now Thanh Nien Street.</span></p> </div> <div> <p><b>Dong Xuan Market</b></p> </div> <div><span>This is one of the largest markets in Hanoi. During the reconstruction of the Thang Long Citadel in 1804, Nguyen Van Thanh, the president of the citadel under Nguyen Dynasty rule, decided to place Dong Xuan market at the city’s eastern gate. In 1890 the French government in Hanoi began to build the market with five-door arches and five houses measuring 52 meters in width and 19 meters in height. </span></div> <div> <p><span>The market is situated in the old quarter and surrounded by Dong Xuan Street, Hang Khoai Street, Dong Dong Street, and Dong Xuan Market Alley. Today it is a famous shopping and tourist destination.</span></p> </div> <div> <p><b>Hang Dau Water Tower</b></p> </div> <div><span>The water tower is located at the crossroads of Hang Dau, Hang Than, Quan Thanh, Phan Dinh Phung, Hang Cot, and Hang Giay streets. It was built in 1894. The three-storied structure has a diameter of 19 meters and height of 25 meters. It has many small windows on its walls.</span></div> <div> <p><span>Inside the tower, the stone walls are evenly spaced like the spokes of the wheel with doors to go around. On these walls are water tanks made of metal. Each tower can hold 1,250 cubic meters of water. From here the water was transported to the city where the French colonial army was stationed and then to other towns. The tower has been abandoned since 1954 and become a tourist attraction. But visitors are not allowed to enter.</span></p> </div> <div> <p><b>One Pillar Pagoda</b></p> </div> <div><span>Located on Doi Can Street in the central district of Ba Dinh, Chua Mot Cot (One Pillar Pagoda) is a unique construction in Vietnam. The pagoda was built in 1049 during the reign of King Ly Thai Tong of the Ly Dynasty. The pagoda is perched atop its single pillar in a pond. It attracts not only Buddhists but also tourists.</span></div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div><strong>Comments</strong> (<label>0</label>)</div> <div><a>Latest first</a> | <a>Highest rated</a></div> <div>Latest firstHighest rated</div> </div> </div> <div> <div><a>View more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <h2><span>Read more</span></h2> <div> <ul> <li> <div> <h3><a>Vietnam a great place for good food, cheap beer</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>October adds luster to Vietnam’s destinations</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination</a></h3> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <br /> Witness to a century of change: Hanoi’s iconic structures – VnExpress International Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Witness to a century of change: Hanoi’s iconic structures – VnExpress International

Witness to a century of change: Hanoi’s iconic structures – VnExpress International Back to English Comments Travel – September 25, 2018 | 02:41 pm GMT+7 Eleven architectural marvels that have defied time and stood amid the capital city’s makeover. The Huc Bridge The Huc Bridge was built during the …

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Huong Son complex named special national relic site

Huong Son complex named special national relic site <div> <p>Huong Pagoda has been recognised as a special national relic site.</p> <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>The ceremony to receive the certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, was held on September 19 (Photo: VNA)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Hanoi authorities received a certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, in My Duc district on September 19.</p> <p>The Huong Son complex consists of Buddhist pagodas and caves and temples worshipping local agricultural gods.</p> <p>The complex was built under the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (1442 – 1497). It was destroyed by French colonialists but has been rebuilt with the support of the State, local residents and visitors.</p> <p>Aside from its religious significance, the complex also holds special values in terms of ecosystem, landscape, architecture and history.</p> <p>The traditional Huong Pagoda Festival from the first through the third lunar month each year is one of the biggest of its kind in Vietnam, helping the complex attract millions of visitors every year.</p> <p>The Huong Son complex was listed among special national relic sites in December 2017.</p> <p>At the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam presented the certificate to authorities of My Duc district and the pagoda’s representatives.</p> <p>Addressing the event, Politburo member and Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Hoang Trung Hai said it was an honour for the administration and people of My Duc district and the capital city to receive the recognition.</p> <p>They would make utmost efforts to uphold the relic site’s values to turn it into a destination for not only spiritual tourism but also for educating in history, culture and environment, he added.</p> <p>The ceremony also aimed to mark the 130th founding anniversary of My Duc district and 60 years since then President Ho Chi Minh visited Huong Pagoda.</p> </div> <p>VNA</p> </div> </div> <br /> Huong Son complex named special national relic site Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Huong Son complex named special national relic site

Huong Son complex named special national relic site Huong Pagoda has been recognised as a special national relic site. The ceremony to receive the certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, was held on September 19 (Photo: VNA) Hanoi authorities received a cer…

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Visitors to Quang Binh exceed 3 million in 2018 so far

Visitors to Quang Binh exceed 3 million in 2018 so far <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>Aforementioned achievements are attributed to the provincial tourism sector’s efforts to strengthen management of tourism, tourism promotion activities both at home and abroad, and closer collaboration with Ben Tre and other Mekong Delta provinces to boost tourism development.</p> <p>The major focus was also on improving the quality and variety of its tourism products and services, offering new tours of previously undiscovered caves like Dai A, Over, Pygmy, Va, and Nut to meet the demands of tourists.</p> <p>Ho An Phong, director of Quang Binh provincial Department of Tourism, said the sector will continue   tourism promotion activities to fully tap its advantages of sea and cave tourism, and call on businesses to create new tourism development projects and unique tours to draw more visitors to as well as encourage their longer stay in the province.</p> <p>Quang Binh will also work together with neighbouring provinces to establish the connections for a tour route in the central region, further promote the full exploitation of the Dong Hoi-Chiang Mai air route, and carry out the Dong Hoi airport upgrading project, said Mr Phong.</p> </div> <br /> Visitors to Quang Binh exceed 3 million in 2018 so far Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Visitors to Quang Binh exceed 3 million in 2018 so far

Visitors to Quang Binh exceed 3 million in 2018 so far Aforementioned achievements are attributed to the provincial tourism sector’s efforts to strengthen management of tourism, tourism promotion activities both at home and abroad, and closer collaboration with Ben Tre and other Mekong Delta provinc…

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European travel agents to make fact-finding tour to Hanoi

European travel agents to make fact-finding tour to Hanoi <div> <div><span>Tourists visit Temple of Literature – a tourist attraction in Hanoi (Source: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA)</strong> – A delegation of 25 travel agents from 12 European nations will visit Hanoi from October 4-10 in a bid to strengthen cooperation in tourism.</p> <p>The tour is expected to offer a chance for Vietnamese and European travel agents to meet, introduce tourism products, and intensify tourism promotion, thus helping popularise the image of Vietnam in general and the capital city in particular.</p> <p>The delegation is scheduled to make a fact-finding tour to tourist attractions in Hanoi and surrounding areas before participating in a meeting between Vietnamese and European travel agents. The European firms will discuss tourism products and destinations of Hanoi and Vietnam Airlines on October 10.</p> <p>Hanoi expects to welcome nearly 20 million tourist arrivals in the first nine months of this year, or a year-on-year rise of 9.2 percent. Of the total, foreign visitors are estimated at 4.3 million, up 20 percent year-on-year, and accounting for nearly 40 percent of the total number of foreign tourists to Vietnam.</p> <p>This year, Hanoi aims to welcome more than 25.4 million tourists, including 5.5 million foreigners.</p> <p>The city has also received high rankings and wide coverage by overseas travel firms and magazines. The online marketplace and hospitality service Airbnb named the Vietnamese capital city among the world’s top 10 intriguing travel destinations in 2018. Hanoi was also listed among the world’s top 13 destinations for international travellers in March based on a poll by readers of the US-based Business Insider magazine.</p> <p>Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a good place for visitors to spend time roaming around, experiencing open-air eateries and hearing the noise of whizzing motorbikes, Business Insider said. Hoan Kiem Lake in the city’s centre provides a peaceful respite from the frenzy, as do numerous Buddhist temples and pagodas, it added.</p> <p>Last month, the UK’s weekly magazine Hello named Hanoi among seven best backpacking destinations in Asia.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> European travel agents to make fact-finding tour to Hanoi Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

European travel agents to make fact-finding tour to Hanoi

European travel agents to make fact-finding tour to Hanoi Tourists visit Temple of Literature – a tourist attraction in Hanoi (Source: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – A delegation of 25 travel agents from 12 European nations will visit Hanoi from October 4-10 in a bid to strengthen cooperation in tourism. The to…

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Phu Quoc eyes 2.5 million visitors this year

Phu Quoc eyes 2.5 million visitors this year <div> <div><span>Foreign visitors get relaxed at Duong Dong beach in Phu Quoc on the National Day holiday. (Photo: VNA)<br /></span></div> <p><strong>Kien Giang (VNA)</strong> – The resort island of Phu Quoc in the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang expects to welcome about 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 2018, up 25 percent from last year.</p> <p>Since 2015, the island has received more than 4.7 million tourist arrivals, 20.5 percent of which were foreigners. Earnings from tourism grew 42.5 percent annually in average.</p> <p>According to Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Phu Quoc island district Pham Van Nghiep, Phu Quoc International Airport now has eight airlines operating 12 direct international flights to China, the Republic of Korea, Russia and Thailand and four domestic routes to Can Tho, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Hai Phong.</p> <p>The lodging services in the island have rapidly expanded to serve the increasing demand of visitors. The island now has more than 600 hotels and other accommodations, offering about 12,000 rooms, of which 10 are rated 3 – 4 star hotels and five rated 5-star</p> <p>Phu Quoc is very famous for pearl farming, fish sauce, pepper and “ruou sim”, a wine made from sim fruit or Rose Myrtle. A variety of tours are provided for travellers, such as scuba diving, coral reef snorkeling, fishing and tours to visit traditional fish sauce making establishments, pearl farms, Ham Ninh fishing village, Phu Quoc National Park, pristine beaches and many more.</p> <p>In addition, Nghiep attributed the success of the local tourism industry to new luxurious tourism services, including 500-hectare Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc – the first-ever and largest safari park in Vietnam, Vinpearl Resort & Villas, Vinpearl Land and Vincharm Spa. Earlier this year, the world’s longest sea cable car route was launched in the island, connecting An Thoi town and Hon Thom island, he said.</p> <p>Phu Quoc was once a sleepy area of around 100,000 people. In recent years, however, the 567sq.m island has become a tourist mecca for thousands of visitors from around the world.</p> <p>Located 46km from the mainland, the island can be reached by air from HCM City within one hour and from Hanoi within two hours.</p> <p>In September, it was named by CNN among the top five up-and-coming Asia Pacific destinations to visit this fall.</p> <p>According to CNN, for those planning their first trip to the Asia-Pacific region, major destinations usually top the list, such as Shanghai and Hong Kong (China), Tokyo (Japan) and Singapore.</p> <p>“If you’re dreaming of a beach getaway in Asia this fall, Phu Quoc in Vietnam should be a top contender. For starters, the dry season begins in November and runs till April,” CNN wrote on its website. </p> <p>Formerly a prison island during French colonial times, Phu Quoc’s photogenic setting and clear waters caught the attention of international brands like JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, which debuted its Bill Bensley-designed resort late last year.</p> <p>There’s plenty to do aside from lounging and snorkeling around Ong Lang Beach.</p> <p>The Phu Quoc Prison Museum offers a peek into the island’s dark history while the Phu Quoc National Park and Suoi Tranh Waterfall will spoil nature lovers, it added. –VNA </p> </div> <br /> Phu Quoc eyes 2.5 million visitors this year Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Phu Quoc eyes 2.5 million visitors this year

Phu Quoc eyes 2.5 million visitors this year Foreign visitors get relaxed at Duong Dong beach in Phu Quoc on the National Day holiday. (Photo: VNA) Kien Giang (VNA) – The resort island of Phu Quoc in the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang expects to welcome about 2.5 million tourist arrivals in 201…

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Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes – VnExpress International

Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes – VnExpress International <div> <div> <div><a><span>Back to English</span></a> <a><span>Comments</span></a></div> </div> <div> <div> <div><a>Travel</a> – September 24, 2018 | 10:11 am GMT+7</div> </div> </div> <div> <h2>Around 3,400 from over 50 countries and territories were treated to breathtaking vistas in Sa Pa Town last weekend.</h2> </div> <div> <p>They made it to the mountainous town of <a>Sa Pa</a> in northern Lao Cai Province to run the September 21-23 annual Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2018.</p> </div> <div> <p>The timing of the race, September, coincides with the rice harvest season in the northern highlands, the best time of the year to watch ripened rice plants glisten golden yellow.</p> </div> <div> <p>Participants had the choice of running the 10, 21, 42, 70 or 100 kilometer race. Those braving the 100km ultra marathon showed up at the starting point at 10 p.m. on Friday and ran overnight through tough trails and mountainous terrain. </p> </div> <div> <p>The shorter races began in the wee hours of Saturday morning, allowing them to run through terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. </p> <p>Many runners said they were joining the race for the chance to take in the scenery, breathe fresh air and enjoy a new experience.</p> <p>Sa Pa’s <a>rice terraces</a> have been hailed as one of the most mesmerizing scenes on earth by the New York-based <i>Travel+Leisure</i> Magazine. </p> </div> <div> <p>Last year, Tran Duy Quang became <a>the first Vietnamese champion</a> of the event since it was first held in 2013. He won the men’s 100km category in 13 hours and 17 minutes, holding off competitors from the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Philippines and Thailand.</p> <p>This year, Vietnamese racer Nguyen Tien Hung won the 100km run, followed by Hisashi Kitamura of Japan and France’s David Fontaine.  </p> </div> <div> <p>David Lloyd, director of sport for Topas Travel, the event’s organizer, said that the marathon has contributed to boosting tourism in Sa Pa and the northern mountainous region.</p> <p>Pictures and personal statuses tagged in Sa Pa made it the most searched keywords on social media networks like Facebook and Instagram last weekend, he said.</p> </div> <div> <p>A runner goes past a sparsely greened hill in the 42km race from Quang Village, crossing Ta Phin and reaching Su Pan Village.  </p> </div> <div> <p>The event’s organizers pledged to give more than $38,000 to charity organizations in Sa Pa, to Newborns Vietnam, a U.K. registered charity dedicated to reducing neonatal mortality in Southeast Asia, and to Operation Smile, a Virginia-based non-government organization dedicated to helping patients with lip and palate defects. </p> </div> <div> <p><b>Kieu Duong</b></p> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div><strong>Comments</strong> (<label>0</label>)</div> <div><a>Latest first</a> | <a>Highest rated</a></div> <div>Latest firstHighest rated</div> </div> </div> <div> <div><a>View more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <h2><span>Read more</span></h2> <div> <ul> <li> <div> <h3><a>October adds luster to Vietnam’s destinations</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Direct flights to connect Hanoi with Shenzhen, Guangzhou</a></h3> </div> </li> <li> <div> <h3><a>Vietnam takes Bali’s place as top Aussie travel choice</a></h3> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <br /> Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes – VnExpress International Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes – VnExpress International

Vietnam Mountain Marathon runs through stunning landscapes – VnExpress International Back to English Comments Travel – September 24, 2018 | 10:11 am GMT+7 Around 3,400 from over 50 countries and territories were treated to breathtaking vistas in Sa Pa Town last weekend. They made it to the mountaino…

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Quang Ninh tourism sector welcomes 10 million visitors

Quang Ninh tourism sector welcomes 10 million visitors <div> <div><span>A view of Ha Long Bay, the most popular tourist attraction in Quang Ninh, from above. (Photo: VNA)<br /></span></div> <p><strong>Quang Ninh (VNA)</strong> – The number of tourists visiting the northern coastal province of Quang Ninh in the first nine months of this year is estimated to top 10 million, an increase of 25 percent over the same period last year, according to the local Department of Tourism.</p> <p>Of this, foreign tourists account for over 3.6 million, rising 19 percent, the office further said, adding it plans to welcome a total of 12 million visitors this year on the back of its hosting of the National Tourism Year 2018 with more than 50 cultural, sport and tourist events held throughout the province.</p> <p>So far this year, the tourism sector of the province, home to the UNESCO-recognized Ha Long Bay, bagged 17.5 trillion VND (about 833 million USD), marking an increase of 30 percent over the same period last year and making up 80 percent of this year’s plan.</p> <p>To improve the quality of the service, Quang Ninh authorities have been prioritizing investment to the development of infrastructure. Currently, the province houses the Van Don International Airport, the Hai Phong – Ha Long and Ha Long – Van Don expressways which facilitate the expansion of tourism space.</p> <p>Besides, many other major projects related to tourism in the province continue to enjoy investment, including those in Mong Cai, Van Don, Co To, Quang Yen, Uong Bi, Dong Trieu, etc. In Van Don alone, investors have so far this year started a chain of “super projects” related to tourism with a combined value of 2.7 billion USD.</p> <p>The tourism operation in the province is said to be maintained, while the state management over the business strengthened and reformed unceasingly. The business environment is moving in a positive direction to ensure its healthiness and effectiveness. All these factors are helping attract major investors to the province.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Quang Ninh tourism sector welcomes 10 million visitors Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Quang Ninh tourism sector welcomes 10 million visitors

Quang Ninh tourism sector welcomes 10 million visitors A view of Ha Long Bay, the most popular tourist attraction in Quang Ninh, from above. (Photo: VNA) Quang Ninh (VNA) – The number of tourists visiting the northern coastal province of Quang Ninh in the first nine months of this year is estimated …

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VietjetAir debuts first flight connecting Nha Trang – Da Nang

VietjetAir debuts first flight connecting Nha Trang – Da Nang <div> <div>On the flight, passengers surprisingly received nice gifts from VietjetAir.</div> <div>Nha Trang – Danang route is operated a daily return flight, at around 1 hour per leg. The flight is scheduled to depart from Nha Trang at 11:45 and arrive in Da Nang at 12:45. The return flight takes off at 13:20 in Danang and lands in Nha Trang at 14:20 (All at local time).</div> <div>Promotional tickets are available via sales channels during Vietjet’s golden hours from 12:00 to 14:00 (GMT+7) everyday on website http://bit.ly/P4vpjt (also compatible with smartphones at http://bit.ly/1BDdBzh) or http://bit.ly/1zyybAq (just click the “Booking” tab).</div> <div>Payment can be easily made with international debit and credit cards, including Visa/ MasterCard/ AMEX/ JCB/ KCP/Union; or with any ATM card issued by 34 Vietnamese banks and registered with internet banking.</div> <div>Nha Trang and Danang – two famous coastal cities in central Vietnam are popular destinations attracting both international and local tourists. With this new route, tourists will have more opportunities and flexibility to discover these two interesting destinations.</div> <p>By UYEN PHUONG</p> </div> <br /> VietjetAir debuts first flight connecting Nha Trang – Da Nang Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

VietjetAir debuts first flight connecting Nha Trang – Da Nang

VietjetAir debuts first flight connecting Nha Trang – Da Nang On the flight, passengers surprisingly received nice gifts from VietjetAir. Nha Trang – Danang route is operated a daily return flight, at around 1 hour per leg. The flight is scheduled to depart from Nha Trang at 11:45 and arrive in Da N…

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More buses served for Nghinh Ong festival in Can Gio District

More buses served for Nghinh Ong festival in Can Gio District <div> <div>Specifically, the center will increase bus fleets for route Sai Gon – Can Gio, Binh Khanh – Can Thanh, Can Thanh – Dong Hoa and change timetable of buses to prevent them into Can Thanh Town during the festival.</div> <div>The urban traffic management board No. 4 asked public service units especially the unit in Sac Forest route to speed up essential maintenance work on street surface and lighting system in street for the festival.</div> <div>The festival is scheduled to take place in Can Thanh, Can Gio district in Ho Chi Minh City on September 23-28.</div> <p>By QUOC HUNG – Translated by UYEN PHUONG</p> </div> <br /> More buses served for Nghinh Ong festival in Can Gio District Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

More buses served for Nghinh Ong festival in Can Gio District

More buses served for Nghinh Ong festival in Can Gio District Specifically, the center will increase bus fleets for route Sai Gon – Can Gio, Binh Khanh – Can Thanh, Can Thanh – Dong Hoa and change timetable of buses to prevent them into Can Thanh Town during the festival. The urban traffic managemen…

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Visiting the beautiful Mường Hoa Valley of Lào Cai

Visiting the beautiful Mường Hoa Valley of Lào Cai <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Glorious: Mường Hoa Valley is stunning in the ripe paddy season. — VNS Photo Hạnh Hoàng</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><a>Viet Nam News</a></p> <p>by Mộc Miên</p> <p>Mường Hoa Valley, Hầu Thào Commune lies eight kilometres southeast of Sa Pa Town. Visitors get to the beautiful valley after crossing a high mountain pass.</p> <p>The northwest mountainous area is famous for its extraordinary and poetic beauty, which changes with every season of the year. For Sa Pa lovers, Mường Hoa Valley is especially delightful. It is beautiful during both the new rice and harvest seasons thanks to the unique terraced fields. Tourists have enjoyed taking a mid-mountain hike to treat themselves to this spectacular view. However, the best way to enjoy this unique specialty of the town in fog is to view it from above, choosing a mid-mountain spot to appreciate this magical green trail.</p> <p>Launched on March 31, 2018, the Mường Hoa mountain railway, connecting Sa Pa Town with the Fansipan cable car station, has truly enriched tourists’ experiences. With the total length of approximately two kilometres, this is one of the longest mountain railways of Việt Nam. It travels through two tunnels and four viaducts.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Connected: A wooden bridge connecting two banks of Mường Hoa Stream is a place where tourists can take amazing pictures. — VNS Photo Phương Linh</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>September is rice harvest season. Viewed from the train, Mường Hoa Valley is a magnificent picture of nature, a perfect arts masterpiece by the earth and human beings. At different times of the day, Mường Hoa Valley displays a distinctive beauty. In the honey-coloured early morning sun, the Valley is full of vitality, freshness and radiance. It is refreshing to see Mường Hoa at sunset. At dusk, blue smoke from humble houses blends with drifting clouds, making the autumn picture more dreamlike.</p> <p>In September, when the bright yellow colour of ripening rice is everywhere, Mường Hoa becomes more beautiful thanks to the combination of green forests and ivory-white clouds. Along the slope of the mountain are small, peaceful and poetic houses. What makes Mường Hoa more special than other places is that the terraced fields in the valley result from the combination of the water rice planting technique in the narrow valley terrain of the Giáy people and ground-breaking techniques on the high mountains of the Mông and Dao peoples.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Riverside: Tourists can take pictures in Mường Hoa Stream, which is 15km long and runs through many villages. — VNS Photo Phương Linh</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>There is a lovely 15-km long stream in Mường Hoa, passing Lao Chải, Tả Van, Hầu Thào and Bản Hồ communes. Mường Hoa Stream is the lower section of the famous waterfall called Bạc Waterfall. Twenty-two streams running from forests and mountain creeks join together to make Mường Hoa Stream and its lively flow. To cross the stream, people living along the banks built rattan bridges. The bridges add to the beauty of the valley and attract a lot of tourists who wish to take unique photos.</p> <p>In this place, along the mountain lies an area with strange carved stones. The area is four kilometres long and two kilometres wide and contains at least 159 stones with mysterious images. The area used to be the working site of numerous scientists from Việt Nam, Russia, France and Australia.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sunny afternoon: A local kid plays on the road in Mường Hoa Valley. — VNS Photo Hạnh Hoàng</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The ancient area has stones with beautiful carvings, mostly in Bản Phố. Some big stones are carved with different images, particularly images of human beings in many positions: some stretching their arms with light rays from above their heads, others holding hands or standing upside down. Some depict couples with connected sexual organs like the symbol of reproduction worship on the Đông Sơn drum. Looking closely, we can find up to 11 types of strange images of human beings here. Most scientists have concluded that this is a great heritage of mankind. It not only possesses fine-arts values but also contains spiritual meaning. It is like a mysterious message sent by the forefathers to their future descendants. It is also one of the appealing tourist attractions of Sa Pa.</p> <p>No matter when you visit Mường Hoa Valley, it will be a memorable experience. Unlike the crowded and noisy Sa Pa Town centre, there is always a humble, graceful and splendid Mường Hoa with its unforgettable God-given beauty. — VNS</p> </div> <p> </p> </div> <br /> Visiting the beautiful Mường Hoa Valley of Lào Cai Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Visiting the beautiful Mường Hoa Valley of Lào Cai

Visiting the beautiful Mường Hoa Valley of Lào Cai Glorious: Mường Hoa Valley is stunning in the ripe paddy season. — VNS Photo Hạnh Hoàng Viet Nam News by Mộc Miên Mường Hoa Valley, Hầu Thào Commune lies eight kilometres southeast of Sa Pa Town. Visitors get to the beautiful valley after crossing a…

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Vietjet offers promotional tickets for flights during Lunar New Year 2019

Vietjet offers promotional tickets for flights during Lunar New Year 2019 <div> <div> <p>The promotional tickets are applied for all domestic routes in Vietnam and Thailand as well as international routes between Vietnam and destinations including Tokyo, Osaka (Japan); Seoul, Busan, Daegu (South Korea); Hong Kong; Kaohsiung, Taipei, Taichung, Tainan (Taiwan, China); Singapore/ Bangkok, Phuket, Chiangmai (Thailand); Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia); Yangon (Myanmar); Siem Reap (Cambodia). All promotional airfares on sale for Vietjet flights in the period from January 22 to February 18, 2019.</p> <p>Vietjet also inaugurates new routes and increases flights to serve the increasing travel demand of people during the Lunar New Year (Tet) Holiday.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Vietjet’s staff</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>Additionally, Vietjet offered some super promotional golden days from September 19 to September 21, 2018. Accordingly, during the golden hours from 12:00 to 14:00 (GMT+7) on these days, 2.6 million tickets were sold from VND 0 on the website http://bit.ly/P4vpjt. The promotional tickets are applied to all flights from October 15, 2018 to March 30, 2019 on the domestic routes in Vietnam and Thailand and to flights from October 15, 2018 to June 30, 2019 on several international routes.</p> <p>However, the promotion will be applied to Hanoi – Osaka (Japan) route from November 8th, 2018 to March 30th, 2019; Ho Chi Minh City – Osaka (Japan) route from December 14, 2018 to March 30th, 2019; Hanoi – Tokyo (Narita, Japan) route from January 11 to March 30, 2019; and Hanoi – Taichung (Taiwan, China) route from October 15, 2018 to March 30, 2019.</p> <p>Promotional tickets are available during Vietjet’s golden hours from 12:00 to 14:00 (GMT+7) everyday on the website http://bit.ly/P4vpjt</p> <p>The first clients will be served first and enjoy better promotion.</p> <p>In addition to the ticket promotion, the carrier also offers other promotional programs on cargo transportation during the 2019 Tet Holiday</p> <p><em><strong>Chung Anh</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Vietjet offers promotional tickets for flights during Lunar New Year 2019 Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietjet offers promotional tickets for flights during Lunar New Year 2019

Vietjet offers promotional tickets for flights during Lunar New Year 2019 The promotional tickets are applied for all domestic routes in Vietnam and Thailand as well as international routes between Vietnam and destinations including Tokyo, Osaka (Japan); Seoul, Busan, Daegu (South Korea); Hong Kong;…

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Creating breakthrough with innovative travel products

Creating breakthrough with innovative travel products <div> <p>At the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2018 in Hong Kong (China), Vietnam was honored in one of the most important award categories – the “Asia’s Leading Destination“ category. Accordingly, Vietnam’s tourism growth rate ranked sixth in the world and topped Asia. Along with the national awards, a number of Vietnam’s tourism service providers including Vietravel, the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, Sun Perinsuda International Resort in Da Nang and Naman Retreat Resort in Danang, were also honoured with top awards in the region.</p> <p>The results demonstrate an obvious advance in quality and the efforts of Vietnam’s tourism industry during the long journey of creating a foothold in the world tourism map. However, according to experts, although Vietnam’s tourism sector has shown a good appearance and brought significant benefits to the country, the development of Vietnam’s tourism is still not commensurate with its potential and is facing warnings on the risk of unsustainable development and waste of resources. According to a report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2017’s Tourism Competitiveness Report, Vietnam has jumped eight levels compared with two years ago. However, Vietnam is very short of unique, innovative products, with appropriate market demand. In Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, where are identified as the tourist capitals of Vietnam, there is also a lack of tourist products after 6pm for tourists. The monotonous, repetitive products of tourism in the provinces and cities in the same area are easy to see. This is the “bottleneck” on the “journey” to upgrading the quality of tourism in Vietnam.</p> <p>Aiming to find solutions to overcome the “bottleneck”, the conference “Creative in tourism products – from ideas to business reality” was organised by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) in Ho Chi Minh City, under the framework of the Ho Chi Minh City International Travel Expo (ITE HCMC) 2018. The Deputy Head of the VNAT, Ha Van Sieu, affirmed that innovation in tourism products in the right direction will help increase the value of tourism resources, thereby creating a distinct platform in the competitive advantage of tourism among nations, especially in the context of deep integration and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (also known as Industry 4.0) which is spreading across the globe. Innovative tourism products are expected to help to reduce the focus on traditional tourist destinations, evenly distribute the tourist space, and reduce overcrowding and current imbalances. It is also an important direction to restructure the tourism industry to meet the development needs in the new situation.</p> <p>In fact, in previous years, Vietnam had the tourism products with creative elements such as “Becoming residents of Hoi An during one day” tour and the “Ripe rice season” tour in Duong Lam ancient village. In order to gather the elements of innovative tourism products such as: having different ideas, creating impressive emotions in the experience for visitors and creating high added value, until recently, Vietnam also had outstanding products. Typical highlights include the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, which was opened not long ago, with the ‘Hoi An Memories’ show. The show brings viewers the emotion and special experience of a unique art product imbued with the national identity of Hoi An, a land of rich history and culture. Or the art show entitled ‘The Quintessence of Tonkin’ – the first outdoor visual arts performance in Hanoi, which is staged with a sound system, modern light technology, and a large number of performers. The project explores six aspects of the cultural essence of the Tonkin, including Poetry, Buddhism, Nostalgia, Music and Painting, Joy and Festivities. Recently, the Golden Bridge built in Da Nang suddenly emerged as a phenomenon not only for the Vietnamese but also for travellers from around the world due to its majestic and impressive nature.</p> <p>Creating innovative products is not enough, the key is how to make these products last and grow. According to experts, it is necessary to involve state management agencies in making policies, the courage of investors in investing in new products, and the role of travel agencies in connecting and promoting travel, as well as the role of the media in promoting travel produces and community involvement. In addition, according to Jason Lusk, the project Mekong Innovative Startups in Tourism (MIST), creativity is necessary to create a unique impression that attracts visitors but in order to develop well, it is necessary to be accompanied by environmental protection and natural resources, especially when Vietnam is one of the countries with the highest tourism growth rate in the region and the world. The Deputy Head of the VNAT, Ha Van Sieu also emphasised that creativity in tourism must go together with sustainable development, increasing the value of tourism resources but using originality of destination as resources of creativity.</p> </div> <br /> Creating breakthrough with innovative travel products Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Creating breakthrough with innovative travel products

Creating breakthrough with innovative travel products At the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2018 in Hong Kong (China), Vietnam was honored in one of the most important award categories – the “Asia’s Leading Destination“ category. Accordingly, Vietnam’s tourism growth rate…

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Vietnam sees fastest growth in tourist arrivals

Vietnam sees fastest growth in tourist arrivals <div> <p>Vietnam ranks third in the top 10 countries with the biggest increase in international tourist arrivals in 2017 compared to 2016.</p> <p>In particular, Egypt increased 55.1%, Togo (46.7%), Vietnam (29.1%), Palestine (25.7%); Niue (25.4%); Nepal (24.9%); Israel (24.6%); Northern Mariana Islands (24.3%); Turkey (24.1%); Iceland (24.1%); and Macedonia (23.5%).</p> <p>The UNWTO’s report named “Tourism Highlights 2018” has reviewed the number of international tourists worldwide in 2017. Accordingly, as for the most popular destinations in the world, Europe took the lead with almost half of the world’s total international arrivals, at 671 million. Europe was also home to six of the ten most visited countries in 2017, with France in the lead.</p> <p>Asia and the Pacific also saw an increase in international tourism, with 323 million arrivals, according to the report. The Americas came in third place with 209 million, followed by Africa with 63 million, and the Middle East with 58 million.</p> </div> <br /> Vietnam sees fastest growth in tourist arrivals Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam sees fastest growth in tourist arrivals

Vietnam sees fastest growth in tourist arrivals Vietnam ranks third in the top 10 countries with the biggest increase in international tourist arrivals in 2017 compared to 2016. In particular, Egypt increased 55.1%, Togo (46.7%), Vietnam (29.1%), Palestine (25.7%); Niue (25.4%); Nepal (24.9%); Israe…

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25 European travel companies to survey Hanoi tourism

25 European travel companies to survey Hanoi tourism <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>Duong Lam ancient village</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The delegation will be received by the Hanoi Department of Tourism and National-flag carrier Vietnam Airlines.</p> <p><span>The visit is a part of connection activities between tourism and airlines, aiming to boost cooperation and on-site tourism promotion through the building and experience of inter-regional tourism products. It also creates an opportunity for Vietnamese tourism destinations and travel businesses to directly introduce their products to international friends.</span></p> <p><span>The delegation will survey the tourist attractions and tourism products of Hanoi and surrounding areas including Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam Temple of Literature, Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi Old Quarters, Thang Long Royal Palace, Ho Chi Minh Relic Site at the Presidential Palace, Duong Lam ancient village, Van Phuc silk village, Huong Son landscape complex and Ha Long Bay.</span></p> <p><span>They will then meet with reporters and state management agencies and businesses operating in tourism and discuss their opinions of the destinations and tourism products with the Hanoi Department of Tourism and Vietnam Airlines.</span></p> </div> <br /> 25 European travel companies to survey Hanoi tourism Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

25 European travel companies to survey Hanoi tourism

25 European travel companies to survey Hanoi tourism Duong Lam ancient village The delegation will be received by the Hanoi Department of Tourism and National-flag carrier Vietnam Airlines. The visit is a part of connection activities between tourism and airlines, aiming to boost cooperation and on-…

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Nom pagoda typifies Vietnamese culture

Nom pagoda typifies Vietnamese culture <div><span><span>Nom pagoda in Dai Dong commune, Hung Yen province, embodies the charm of Vietnamese culture. Located only thirty kilometers from Hanoi, the pagoda is a popular destination for pilgrims around Vietnam.</span><br /></span> <div><span><br /></span></div> <p><span><span>Nôm pagoda was once a small temple nestled in a centuries-old pine forest. It underwent a major renovation in the 17th century to acquire the majestic look we see today.</span></span></p> <p><span>The pagoda adopted the typical architecture of ancient pagodas in the Red River Delta. It has a triple-entry door and perfectly combines art, nature, and the inspiration of man. Just behind the main gate are two facing towers that enclose a giant drum and a large bell.</span></p> <p><span>An arched stone bridge leads to a pavilion dedicated to Guan Yin, the compassionate goddess, dressed all in white of Buddhist culture. The pavilion sits like a huge lotus, the sacred emblem of Guan Yin, on a pond filled with water lilies and lotus flowers. Two nine-level copper lotus towers stand a few steps from the pavilion, opposite the bridge.</span><br /></p> <div><span><br /></span></div> <p><span><span>The soul of the Nôm pagoda resides in its ancient secular relics. A copper bell, transverse paintings, and hundreds of earthen statues are the pride of the Nom villagers. Trần Đình Văn, a villager, said: “Our pagoda is unique. It has kept intact its collection of 128 earthen statues dating back to the 15th century. The sanctuary dedicated to the three precious entities of Buddhism has also kept its original architecture. “</span><br /></span></p> <div><span><br /></span></div> <p><span><span>Behind the houses of worship is a garden of laterite stupas preserved intact despite the passage of time. Most Venerable Thích Hồng Huệ, head of the pagoda, said: “Our priority is to preserve the architectural and cultural beauty of the pagoda. It has undergone several renovations but its original charm has been carefully preserved throughout history. “</span></span></p> <p><span>Every year, the Nôm Pagoda welcomes thousands of pilgrims and tourists who want to explore the pagoda and nearby attractions like Nom village, Nom market, and the Tam Giang communal house.</span></p> </div> <br /> Nom pagoda typifies Vietnamese culture Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Nom pagoda typifies Vietnamese culture

Nom pagoda typifies Vietnamese culture Nom pagoda in Dai Dong commune, Hung Yen province, embodies the charm of Vietnamese culture. Located only thirty kilometers from Hanoi, the pagoda is a popular destination for pilgrims around Vietnam. Nôm pagoda was once a small temple nestled in a centuries-ol…

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Soulful Vietnam in the heart of the US

Soulful Vietnam in the heart of the US <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The program is part of a series of activities to promote Vietnam tourism in North America and is the largest event of this type held in the US over the last 15 years involving around 35 Vietnamese tour operators and hotels.</p> <p>VNAT General Director Nguyen Van Tuan said the event takes place in Washington DC and New York with the aim of implementing the Vietnamese tourism marketing strategy, diversifying markets and increasing the number of foreign arrivals to Vietnam.</p> <p>Addressing the opening ceremony, Ambassador to the US Ha Kim Ngoc emphasized on Vietnam’s tourism potential including beautiful landscapes, traditional cuisine and friendly and hospitable people. In recent years, Vietnam-US relations have developing strongly in all fields, including tourism.</p> <p>Vietnam has become an attractive destination for foreign tourists, including Americans. Meanwhile, Vietnamese residents in the US also have an increasing demand for visiting their relatives and spending holidays in Vietnam. Thus, the number of US arrivals in Vietnam has grown by 10% annually and reached 614,000 last year.</p> <p>The country targets to welcome more than 1 million US visitors each year by 2020 when Vietnam Airlines will open direct flights to the US.</p> <p>It is expected that after the event, a delegation of ASTA tour operators will visit Vietnam to survey market and promote tourism cooperation.</p> </div> <br /> Soulful Vietnam in the heart of the US Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Soulful Vietnam in the heart of the US

Soulful Vietnam in the heart of the US The program is part of a series of activities to promote Vietnam tourism in North America and is the largest event of this type held in the US over the last 15 years involving around 35 Vietnamese tour operators and hotels. VNAT General Director Nguyen Van Tuan…

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New multifunctional bus station inaugurated in Sa Pa

New multifunctional bus station inaugurated in Sa Pa <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The new Sa Pa bus station (Photo: Vietnamnet)</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p><span>The station comprises six storeys and one basement and was built at a total cost of VND200 billion (US$8.6 million), by Ha Son Tourism Transport Company.</span></p> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>The waiting lounge for VIP passengers with free food and drinks. (Photo: Vietnamnet)</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td><em><span>A kids’ playroom inside the bus station (Photo: Vietnamnet)</span></em></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div> <br /> New multifunctional bus station inaugurated in Sa Pa Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

New multifunctional bus station inaugurated in Sa Pa

New multifunctional bus station inaugurated in Sa Pa The new Sa Pa bus station (Photo: Vietnamnet) The station comprises six storeys and one basement and was built at a total cost of VND200 billion (US$8.6 million), by Ha Son Tourism Transport Company. The waiting lounge for VIP passengers with free…

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Vietnam promotes tourism in US

Vietnam promotes tourism in US <div> <div><span>Trave firms of Vietnam and the US seek partnership at the event (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Washington D.C.,</strong> (VNA) – “A soulful Vietnam” – a Vietnamese tourism promotion event – was held in Washington D.C., the US, the Southeast Asian country’s fifth largest tourism market, on September 19.</p> <p>The event is the biggest of its kind Vietnam has held in the US in 15 years, drawing 35 domestic travel and hospitality firms such as Saigontourist, Typic Travel, Asia MBC and Gia Linh Travel.</p> <p>It was attended by Nguyen Van Tuan, Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism; Ann Chamberlin, Senior Vice President for Membership, Strategic Partnerships and Marketing of American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA); Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Ha Kim Ngoc; and several American travel firms.</p> <p>According to VNAT Director Nguyen Van Tuan, following Washington, the event will head to New York.</p> <p>The event is part of efforts of Vietnamese tourism sector to diversify its market and lure more foreign visitors who stay longer and spend more in Vietnam, he said.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Ambassador Ha Kim Ngoc said Vietnam has great tourism potential thanks to the natural beautiful landscapes across the country as well as its hospitable people.</p> <p>In recent years, the Vietnam-US relationship has grown strongly in all fields, including tourism, he noted, adding the number of US tourists to Vietnam has increased through years, but has yet to match the potential of both sides.</p> <p>The Northern American market, including Canada and the US, is one of the leading markets in Vietnam’s tourism strategy thanks to the high spending of tourists. Moreover, Vietnam and the US have long-term historical links, an advantage for Vietnam in luring US visitors.</p> <p>During the event, Vietnam’s beautiful destinations were highlighted, such as the UNESCO-recognised World Natural Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang cave system and the cuisine and culture of Vietnam.</p> <p>It was also a chance for Vietnamese firm to seek partnerships and learn from their US peers.</p> <p>Following the event, an ASTA delegation is scheduled to visit Vietnam to promote tourism cooperation.</p> <p>The number of US tourists to Vietnam has risen more than 10 percent annually in the past several years, reaching 614,000 in 2017.</p> <p>Vietnam expects to welcome more than 1 million US visitors each year by 2020.-VNA </p> </div> <br /> Vietnam promotes tourism in US Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Vietnam promotes tourism in US

Vietnam promotes tourism in US Trave firms of Vietnam and the US seek partnership at the event (Photo: VNA) Washington D.C., (VNA) – “A soulful Vietnam” – a Vietnamese tourism promotion event – was held in Washington D.C., the US, the Southeast Asian country’s fifth largest tourism market, on Septem…

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Most modern coach station inaugurated in Sa Pa

Most modern coach station inaugurated in Sa Pa <div> <div> <p>This is the most modern and luxurious coach station in Vietnam at present. Its design is based on a multi-function model, combining a coach station and a five-star hotel.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sa Pa coach station</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The  station, invested by Ha Son Tourism Company at a cost of more than VND 200 billion, has six storeys and one basement on an area of 4,000sq.m.</p> <p>The station is capable of accommodating nearly 300 coaches and employs a most advanced operating and management system.</p> <p>At the inaugural ceremony, Ha Son – Hai Van Transport Company also debuted its four-star SUPERVIP Hanoi – Lao Cai – Sa Pa coach route. Tickets can be booked via 19006776.</p> <p>The station is expected to better serve travelers while boosting the tourism sector of the locality.</p> <p><em><strong>Translated by Song Anh</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Most modern coach station inaugurated in Sa Pa Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Most modern coach station inaugurated in Sa Pa

Most modern coach station inaugurated in Sa Pa This is the most modern and luxurious coach station in Vietnam at present. Its design is based on a multi-function model, combining a coach station and a five-star hotel. Sa Pa coach station The  station, invested by Ha Son Tourism Company at a cost of …

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Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination

Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination <div> <p>The Singaporean pay TV channel has included the Vietnamese city in a list of five under the radar destinations in south and southeast Asian regions.</p> <p>It says that in Vietnam, the spotlight is mostly trained on the country’s two biggest metropolises – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but Da Nang, home to Asia’s most beautiful My Khe Beach and neighbor to Hoi An, the ancient town, has plenty to offer.</p> <p>Intrepid travelers can climb up the famous <a>Marble Mountains</a>, a group of five marble and limestone mountains, to discover “hidden caves, tunnels and Buddhist shrines galore,” it recommends.</p> <p>The central Vietnamese city has gained greater prominence since its <a>Golden Bridge</a> opened in June this year.</p> <div> <div> <div> <div> <h4><a>Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination</a></h4> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div>Vietnam’s Golden Bridge among world’s top travel photos this year</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The visually stunning bridge has been featured in <a><em>CNN</em>’s best travel photographs</a> of the year, the news channel notes.</p> <p>Once a sleepy fishing town, Da Nang is now a formidable tourism destination, gaining renown for its long beaches and upscale resorts.</p> <p>The city received more than five million visitors in the first seven months of this year, up 30 percent over the same period last year, according to the Da Nang tourism department.</p> <p>Travel magazine <em>Live and Invest Overseas</em>, “the world’s savviest source for top opportunities to live better, retire in style, invest for profit, do business,” voted Da Nang among world’s most livable cities earlier this year.</p> <p>The site also recommends tourists to go on a safari in Colombo, Sri Lanka, swim in a volcanic lake in Indonesia’s Medan, go glamping in India’s Visakhapatnam and visit an island of silk-weavers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.</p> </div> <br /> Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination

Da Nang gains stature as a must-go destination The Singaporean pay TV channel has included the Vietnamese city in a list of five under the radar destinations in south and southeast Asian regions. It says that in Vietnam, the spotlight is mostly trained on the country’s two biggest metropolises – Han…

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Hanoi to continue tourism promotion on CNN

Hanoi to continue tourism promotion on CNN <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>According to the Department’s Director, Tran Duc Hai, the department has finalized a report on a CNN tourism promotion program which ran in 2017 and a collaboration plan in 2018. It has also worked with CNN on the cooperation program for the 2019-2021 period, which is considered as an effective method of popularizing the city as a world class destination.</p> <p>This year the capital city aims to receive 25.4 million tourists, including 5.5 million foreigners, said Mr Hai.</p> <p>Accordingly, from the early days of this year the city has worked to improve the quality of infrastructure, services and tourism products, diversify investment methods to draw more capital for tourism development,and facilitated the operations of travel operators.</p> <p>Thanks to taking the appropriate measures, the number of tourist arrivals to the capital city have been higher than last year and exceed this year’s plan. Tourist arrivals to Hanoi from the beginning of the year are estimated at nearly 20 million, including more than 4.3 million foreign visitors, up 9.2% against the same period last year. Foreign visitors to the capital city made up nearly 40% of the total arriving in the country.</p> <p>Foreign visitors to Hanoi have arrived from nearly 190 countries and territories, many from markets with high spending capacities such as Western Europe, Australia, North America, Eastern Europe and Northeast Asia. Countries closer to home, including China, the Republic of Korea and Japan remained the top markets with the highest number of visitors to Vietnam.</p> </div> <br /> Hanoi to continue tourism promotion on CNN Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Hanoi to continue tourism promotion on CNN

Hanoi to continue tourism promotion on CNN According to the Department’s Director, Tran Duc Hai, the department has finalized a report on a CNN tourism promotion program which ran in 2017 and a collaboration plan in 2018. It has also worked with CNN on the cooperation program for the 2019-2021 perio…

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Hanoi: Huong Son complex named special national relic site

Hanoi: Huong Son complex named special national relic site <div> <div><span>The ceremony to receive the certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, was held on September 19 (Photo: VNA)</span></div> <p><strong>Hanoi (VNA)</strong> – Huong Pagoda has been recognised as a special national relic site.</p> <p>Hanoi authorities received a certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, in My Duc district on September 19.</p> <p>The Huong Son complex consists of Buddhist pagodas and caves and temples worshipping local agricultural gods.</p> <p>The complex was built under the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (1442 – 1497). It was destroyed by French colonialists but has been rebuilt with the support of the State, local residents and visitors.</p> <p>Aside from its religious significance, the complex also holds special values in terms of ecosystem, landscape, architecture and history.</p> <p>The traditional Huong Pagoda Festival from the first through the third lunar month each year is one of the biggest of its kind in Vietnam, helping the complex attract millions of visitors every year.</p> <p>The Huong Son complex was listed among special national relic sites in December 2017.</p> <p>At the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam presented the certificate to authorities of My Duc district and the pagoda’s representatives.</p> <p>Addressing the event, Politburo member and Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Hoang Trung Hai said it was an honour for the administration and people of My Duc district and the capital city to receive the recognition. </p> <p>They would make utmost efforts to uphold the relic site’s values to turn it into a destination for not only spiritual tourism but also for educating in history, culture and environment, he added.</p> <p>The ceremony also aimed to mark the 130th founding anniversary of My Duc district and 60 years since then President Ho Chi Minh visited Huong Pagoda.-VNA</p> </div> <br /> Hanoi: Huong Son complex named special national relic site Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Hanoi: Huong Son complex named special national relic site

Hanoi: Huong Son complex named special national relic site The ceremony to receive the certificate honouring the Huong Son landscape complex, also known as Huong Pagoda, was held on September 19 (Photo: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – Huong Pagoda has been recognised as a special national relic site. Hanoi autho…

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Awakening tourism potential in suburban Hanoi

Awakening tourism potential in suburban Hanoi <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Bamboo dragon flies</strong></p> <p>Thach That District has 209 historical, cultural and architectural relics, including various communal houses, pagodas, temples and shrines, the most well-known of which is Tay Phuong Pagoda. The prime minister has recognized this pagoda as a special national relic and its Buddha statues have been designated national treasures. Thirty-three other sites have been listed among national relics, and 62 among provincial relics.</p> <p>Each village/commune of the district has specific cultural festivals featuring their traditions and histories. Traditional art forms have been restored and conserved – cheo (a Vietnamese traditional theatrical art form) in Canh Nau and Dai Dong communes, and water puppetry in Chang Son, Binh Phu and Thach Xa communes.</p> <p>Thach That District is also famous for an abundance of ancient craft villages, 10 of which have been recognized as traditional craft villages with special products. These include bamboo dragonflies and che lam (a kind of sweetened porridge) made in Thach Xa Commune and paper fans and carpentry in Chang Son Commune.</p> <p>Bamboo dragonflies are made in the hamlet where Tay Phuong Pagoda is located. Nguyen Van Tai and his wife, Khuong Thi Tan, own the best-known bamboo dragonfly production facility in Thach Xa Commune and visitors can see how meticulously craftspeople work to create them.</p> <p>“The process of making a bamboo dragonfly consists of 10 stages, requiring careful work so that the dragonflies can perch upon branches of trees, fingers, table edge or even a strand of hair. We also make bamboo birds, butterflies, peafowl and tortoises,” Nguyen Van Tai said.</p> <p>Bamboo dragonflies made in the hamlet are marketed throughout the country, mostly as souvenirs for tourists to major cities, such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Ho Chi Minh City. They are also exported to the US, France, Germany, the UK and Japan. The bamboo dragonfly facility of Nguyen Van Tai has attracted a large number of foreign visitors.</p> <p>Paper fans made in Chang Son Commune’s Dinh Hamlet are also typical traditional products of Thach That District. These fans can be used not only for cooling purposes but also as home decorative items. The fans are offered as souvenirs at major events and sold at festivals and historical sites throughout the country. The paper fan made by artisan Duong Van Mo, displayed at a ceremony marking the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi, has been recognized as the biggest fan of its kind in Vietnam. Paper fans made in Chang Son are exported to France, Japan and the Republic of Korea.</p> <p><strong>Promoting tourism</strong></p> <p>According to Kieu Hoang Tuan, Vice Chairman of Thach That District’s People’s Committee, the district has made its own tourism development plans, focusing on tours to cultural sites, festivals, craft villages and eco-tourist sites. Various projects have been developed, including the restoration of major relics, the attraction of investment in cultural and leisure tourist sites, and the connection of tours and tourism facilities along the districts of Ba Vi, Son Tay, Thach That and Quoc Oai, including three to four-star accommodations, such as the Hoang Long Eco-tourist Site.</p> <p>Emmanuel Cerise, Ile-de-France Region’s representative in Hanoi and Director of the Paris-based Agency for International Cooperation in Vietnam, has been associated with Hanoi’s tourism for years. He said visitors, especially those from European countries, the US, France, Canada and Japan, come to Vietnam to discover its culture and history through cultural and historical relics. They want to experience life in the countryside with its traditional craft villages and farming, which is quite different from life in their countries. To attract more visitors, in his opinion, Thach That District does not necessarily need to invest large amounts of capital in infrastructure but it can organize bike tours to craft villages and open tea shops and restaurants along the way to these places.</p> <p>Dinh Xuan Trang, Director of the Mai Viet Co., Ltd, said Hanoi’s tourism sector should work with the local government to install additional signposts guiding the way to relic sites and craft villages, as well as to introduce destinations to visitors in a more professional manner.</p> <p>Hanoi Tourism Department Director Tran Duc Hai affirmed that the department would maintain coordination with the Thach That District government to promote tourism development in the locality.</p> <p>Thu Huong</p> </div> <br /> Awakening tourism potential in suburban Hanoi Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Awakening tourism potential in suburban Hanoi

Awakening tourism potential in suburban Hanoi Bamboo dragon flies Thach That District has 209 historical, cultural and architectural relics, including various communal houses, pagodas, temples and shrines, the most well-known of which is Tay Phuong Pagoda. The prime minister has recognized this pago…

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Global hotel giants flock to Vietnamese tourism

Global hotel giants flock to Vietnamese tourism <div> <div> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <p>The country has witnessed a large amount of growth in the numbers of international hotel brands and foreign management companies over the past few years.</p> <p>According to the latest figures by Savills Vietnam, the number of international hotel operators has increased from 30 in 2010 to just short of 80 at the end of 2017. In the first half of 2018, some additional famous brand names came to Vietnam. Among them are Mandarin Oriental in Ho Chi Minh City and Best Western Premier in the central province of Quang Binh.</p> <p>Radisson Hotel Group recently opened Radisson Blu Resort on Phu Quoc-its first hotel in Vietnam. Travelodge Asia also announced plans for its first property in the central coastal city of Nha Trang, which is scheduled to open in 2020.</p> <p>Meanwhile, Spain’s Melia Hotel International has strengthened its footprint in Vietnam with the recent signing of three new properties in Ho Chi Minh City, namely Melia Saigon Central, INN-SIDE Saigon Central, and INNSIDE Saigon Mariamman, bringing the group’s number of current and future properties in Vietnam to 10.</p> <p>There have also been new brands introduced into the market in the last three years, including Ozo and X2 Vibe (in New Hoi An City), Double Tree by Hilton (in Halong, Vung Tau, and Hanoi), Four Seasons (in Quang Nam and Hanoi), Oakwood (in Ho Chi Minh City), Glow (in Danang), and Mai House (in Ho Chi Minh City).</p> <p>Mauro Gasparotti, director of Savills Hotels Asia Pacific, said that he observed a large increase of interest in the country from operators over the past three years, following the expansion of the hospitality market.</p> <p>“Vietnamese developers are still new to hospitality products, but with the large amount of supply coming, they will learn quickly, and more high-quality assets are expected to be underway. We have forecast that a total of more than 30,000 new rooms will be opened by the end of 2019,” said Gasparotti.</p> <p>The number of international operators is expected to grow in the coming years, along with the number of local management companies.</p> <p>“We are very positive about the growth of the sector and the attraction of international operators to Vietnam. It is very interesting to see that operators themselves are launching new brands to target new types of clients such as millennials or health-conscious travellers. Vietnam would be a high-potential market for them to introduce focused brands, as the categories of travellers here are largely diversified,” said Gasparotti.</p> <p>A recent report by CBRE revealed that foreign investor demand has mostly been led by Asian-based groups. These hold several hotels in large cities and resort destinations.</p> <p>The comparatively higher yields available in Vietnam continue to lure Asian-based property developers and real estate companies. Mid-market business and hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are the main focus, due to the lack of supply in the gap between high-end and local operators.</p> <p>Recently, InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) acquired a 51% stake in Regent Hotels and Resorts for an amount of US$39 million. Regent has an operation contract for BIM Group’s Regent Residences Phu Quoc, which will become operational in 2019. With the transaction, IHG expanded its portfolio to 10 hotels and resorts in Hanoi, Danang and Ho Chi Minh City.</p> <p>Indochina Capital lately joined with Japan’s Kajima to build up a chain of hotels in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang under the brand name Wink Hotels. The two first land plots were revealed to be in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang-two business and tourism hubs of Vietnam. The 226-room hotel in Ho Chi Minh City will come online in 2019, whereas the 243-room hotel in Danang will be put into operation in 2020.</p> <p>The hotel segment has been very active in the last three years and has caught the attention of many foreign investors, mainly from Japan, the Republic of Korea (RoK), Hong Kong, and Singapore.</p> <p>The RoK’s investors mostly seek large-scale, high-end hotels with up to 250 rooms in Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City, where many South Koreans live, while Japanese investors are interested in smaller-scale hotels with fewer than 150 rooms in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Singaporean investors, meanwhile, hunt for multi-purpose complexes featuring a hotel segment.</p> <p>Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City currently have limited land funds for hotel development, since the prices are high, while Danang and Phu Quoc are offering more opportunities for investors, with much land left to develop.</p> <p>It can be expected that the number of hotel transactions will remain high until at least 2019, due to the limited supply and high demand.</p> <p>Vietnam was at the third position of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in 2017 in a report published by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Vietnam received more than 13 million international visitors in 2017, an increase of 6.8% compared to 2016. International arrivals to Vietnam in the first eight months of 2018 reached more than 10.4 million, increasing by 22.8% compared to the same period of last year.</p> </div> <br /> Global hotel giants flock to Vietnamese tourism Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Global hotel giants flock to Vietnamese tourism

Global hotel giants flock to Vietnamese tourism The country has witnessed a large amount of growth in the numbers of international hotel brands and foreign management companies over the past few years. According to the latest figures by Savills Vietnam, the number of international hotel operators ha…

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Jetstar plane makes emergency landing to rescue a U.S. passenger

Jetstar plane makes emergency landing to rescue a U.S. passenger <div> <div> <p>According to the carrier on September 18, on its flight BL664 from Bangkok (Thailand) to Ho Chi Minh City, a steward spotted a passenger sitting on seat 19D showing signs of pain and short breaths when the plane was flying at a low altitude to prepare for landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.</p> <table> <tbody> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr> <td>(Photo for illustration)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>The U.S. passenger has a history of heart disease and did not bring along medicine.</p> <p>The cabin manager reported the case to the captain and sought medical assistance from any doctors aboard. Luckily, four doctors gave first aid in time to the sick passenger.</p> <p>Immediately when the plane landed, the sick passenger was taken to a nearby hospital.</p> <p>At present, he was discharged from the hospital with a stable health condition.</p> <p><em><strong>Translated by Mai Huong</strong></em></p> </div> </div> <br /> Jetstar plane makes emergency landing to rescue a U.S. passenger Related image(s)<br /> <img height="200" src="http://ifttt.com/images/no_image_card.png" width="200" /><br />

Jetstar plane makes emergency landing to rescue a U.S. passenger

Jetstar plane makes emergency landing to rescue a U.S. passenger According to the carrier on September 18, on its flight BL664 from Bangkok (Thailand) to Ho Chi Minh City, a steward spotted a passenger sitting on seat 19D showing signs of pain and short breaths when the plane was flying at a low alt…

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