Vietnam ranks on the second in the most attractive destinations in the world

United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) predicted that Vietnam ranks the second among the choices for the emerging destinations by the international tourists in 2013.

Vietnam has been a country with the great tourism potential. And USTOA has the exquisite views on this issue. They said that: “Vietnam is ranked on the second among the favorite destinations by the international tourist’s selection in 2013.”

Guom Lake in Hanoi city - Vietnam

According to a recent survey which USTOA held in Hawaii in conjunction with the annual conference, when they were asked about the name of the countries are expected to many tourist’s choices to visit in the coming year, the active members of this association have elected for some countries as Myanmar, Vietnam and India.

Danang Beach in Vietnam

Some nations are ranked on next in the list of non-traditional destinations, which can be the most visitors to get their eye on such as Peru, Cambodia, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica and Ecuador.

Founded in 1972, USTOA is a professional association that based through the partner’s travel companies; the members of this organization offer the tour and travel packages around the world.

Annual, turnover of the members in this association is over $10 billion.

In a previous survey that assesses the favorite in 2012, Vietnam was rated on the first ranking. On that rating, Vietnam is over in comparison with many countries such as India, Ecuador and China...

City Hall in Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnam

In fact, according to estimates by Vietnam General Statistics Office, in this year, Vietnam welcomed more than 6.6 millions international visitors, which increased 9.5% compared to that number last year. And of course, the visitors from most countries and regions are increasing.

If Vietnam can develop the strengths and overcome the limitations, the international travelers will still favor choosing an ideal destination in this country. Thus, the potential of Vietnam Tourism can get the sustainable development in the future.

See the Bac Ha mountain peach flower which blooms early

In winter this year, the weather is sunny, so the forest peach in Na Hoi, Ta Chai, Ban Pho of Bac Ha in Lao Cai Province is early flowering.

In early December, the upland ethnic groups in Bac Ha and a large number of tourists visited and was shocked because they were watching the forest peach which blooms early on the mountainside. In the opinion of the local people, in this year, the peach blooms earlier than normal condition is almost two months.

The Bac Ha mountain peach in recent years has not been only attractive to Lao Cai people, but it is also for the travelers in all parts of country. Perhaps for that reason that people like to come to this mountainous land in the last days of winter to view the spike was starting with new buds. On each branch of the peach tree is a collection of flower buds which were waiting to be protruded out to blooming. Ms. Hoang Thi Van, in Na Hoi commune said: In the past, people called the brilliant flowering trees which are behind the hill, is the Mac Tao trees. This plant blooms only in New Year and spring; then, people call it the forest peach trees.


On earlier days of this winter, it was the warm sunny weather so the forest peaches in some areas such as Na, Ta Chai and Board Street in Bac Ha, are very early flowering. The forest peaches blossom after 20 days and then bread down. The leaves and flowers of the forest peaches blossom in Bac Ha and Sa Pa are near the cherry blossom in Japan that was field to test in the Sapa tourism area.
No need to the human’s hands impact, the natural Bac Ha peaches have many branches. So they also themselves create many different positions. They only develop and flowering at an altitude of 700 m based on the sea level. This is the natural trees which bloom beautifully. They need to be preserved and developed in Bac Ha plateau.

Traditional music performances at Sunrise on Christmas day and New Year 2013

There are many visitors on this occasion in Nha Trang; and they have many questions about the tours program here. There is a place with many special programs that will be extremely appealing to visitors.

With a lot of delicious foods and Christmas songs are at the luxurious Imperial restaurant. Visitors can participate to enjoy a buffet food program at the Christmas’s night program at the Sunrise restaurant on 24-Dec-2012. Besides, there is the organization of a music program on the topic as "Vietnam color and scent"; there are some items such as folk dancing, Cham dancing, playing the instruments of T'rung Ethnic, singing Quan Ho of Bac Ninh to serve tourists.

In addition, the program also has the magic and luck lottery. The ticket price per person is about $170 (not excluding the value-added tax and service charge).
In particular, as from 6:30 AM on 31st–Dec-2012 up to 1 AM on 01st-Jan-2013, the hotel will host a national music program with a theme as "Nha Trang Charming" in front of the restaurant (It may be held at the outdoor stage or in front of the hotel). The program will introduce visitors to many Vietnamese ethnic music genres such as: The net drag song, the ensemble of the national instruments of Champa (a Vietnam ethnic), gongs playing… Besides, the program also has other attractive items such as: Thailand’s dancing, stick jump, belly dancing, fire dancing...

Three hotels in Vietnam in the top 500 in the world

Vietnam has three hotels that have been on the list of the top 500, with the world's best hotels. All are present in the list of 'T + L 500' last. Many people have said, 'T + L 500' is an annual list listed on the world's top hotels by Travel and Leisure magazine. (Travelandleisure.com/tl500/2013)

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi - Photo 1

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi - Photo 2

Three hotels are The Nam Hai (Hoi An), Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (in Ha Noi capital) and Park Hyatt Saigon (in Ho Chi Minh city). This is the first which The Nam Hai is honored in the shortlist. Meanwhile, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Park Hyatt Saigon have been included in this list.

The Nam Hai Resort

The list of 'T + L 500' is completely formed by readers of travel magazines that number released this leading decision. This list consists of 12 pages in the January / 2013 issue of Travel + Leisure. In particular, the 12 page report, there is a separate page for introduction of The Nam Hai (only 5 are introduced separately like this). You can refer at: at: http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/hoi-an/hotels/nam-hai

Park Hyatt Saigon

Standards to vote for the hotels on this list include room, location, service, food and value. Hotels ranked number one in this list is the Singita Grumeti Reserves in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.

Da Nang welcomes New Year 2013 with the countdown festival.

Da Nang is a center of Central Vietnam, which has always rituals to prepare for the forward to New Year very spectacularly. This year is no exception.
In the afternoon on 17-Dec-2012, Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Da Nang City held the press conference to introduce the art program is to welcome New Year 2013 with the theme: "I love the Da Nang."

On the schedule, at the night on 31-Dec-2012, in the 29/3-Square, Da Nang will have a "sleepless night" with "the countdown festival" to welcome New Year 2013 is held for the first time. There will be many exciting art activities and engaging with songs like lyrical music, DJ music and the exciting performances about the Laser light will be special at the Eve moment.

With the theme is "I love Da Nang - Countdown Party 2012," the residents and visitors will be not only harmony in the air excitement and eagerness to welcome New Year 2013 together all over the world, but they will also enjoy the uplifting feeling with an unforgettable impression at the time of transition between the Old and New Year. There will be the organized activities such as a large-scale banquet with music, sound system and modern lighting with a LED giant screen to serve 15,000 to 20,000 people will be attended the event from 21 am to after 24 hours.

The program will be staged by a group of professionals in Vietnam, including: Advisor -Pham Hoang Nam, Viet Tu director, musician - Vo Thien Thanh and the famous artists such as Thanh Lam, Phuong Thanh, Phuong Linh, Nguyen Vu, MC Tran Thanh and the comedian group - Hoai Linh Truong Giang...

In particular, there will be the demonstration of the famous international DJ as Kim Lee - Katrina Nova, Local Pharreal...

This is not only an impressive cultural event, but it is also a tourism specified product with the high art. It's also a place which the friends, the families and loved ones of people converge together and share the emotions at the time of transfer to New Year. People can give each other the best wishes in New Year.

The program will be organized by Saigon Beer Alcohol Beverage Corporation - SABECO, made by B Plus Communications Company, conducted by People's Committee of Da Nang City and Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of this province.

The inauguration of the spiritual tourism in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is an island of Kien Giang province with a strong development of tourism. The first event was the inauguration of Phu Quoc International Airport on 2-Dec-2012. Then, on the morning of 14-Dec-2012, the thousands of cadres, the people, the monks, nuns and Buddhists everywhere arrived here to join in the inauguration of Ho Quoc Pagoda in Phu Quoc Island. This pagoda is located in Suoi Lon are (meaning as Big Spring area), in Duong To Commune - Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang province. It is built on a high hill; the front face has the way to the sea with the architecture of Ly – Tran Dynasty; the roofs are made by the tiles; the pillars are made of ironwood.

The pagoda is located completely in the eco-tourism, which has an area of over 110ha. In particular, the square of the pagoda is around 12%; the remaining area is the protective forest. The investment for the construction of pagoda and roads is about 100 billion VND. The calculation of the separating building for only the pagoda is 80 billion. All have investment capital from donations.

Speaking at the inauguration, Secretary of Phu Quoc District, Mr. Van Ha Phong said: This is a work in a series of events, which is associated with the inauguration of Phu Quoc International Airport and Conference Preliminary Decision on No. 178 of the Prime Minister (It is the approval of "the overall development scheme of Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang up to 2010 and the vision up to 2020) was held on 15-Dec-2012. The pagoda is the center of the highlight of the whole of the eco-tourism. It will be a great destination for tourists, which is indispensable when they came to this island. It will also become a tourism characteristic product here.

Expand the way to welcome visitors to the top of Bach Ma in the next summer

The project of the road construction to reach the top of Bach Ma (the meaning is White Horse) in Thua Thien-Hue, was started from Sep/2009. The work is completed more than 70% of the workload after over three years of construction. As expected, in the summer of 2013, work will be completed to serve the tourists come to visit the top of Bach Ma.

According to the director of the Bach Ma National Park, Mr. Huynh Van Keo explained: This route has a total length of 19km, extended from the top of Bach Ma National Park to 1A Highway, on the way investment is scaled up from 5-7m, by concrete. It has a total investment of nearly 120 billion VND, is funding from the State budget.

Bach Ma Mountain was discovered in 1932 by a French engineer, Mr. M. Girard. French turned the place into a resort area with a system 139 items, including villas, hotels, swimming pools, roads... The road to the top of the White Horse was made by the French. However, it is just 4.5 meters wide; it only allows one-way car up or down; it had some dangerous bends; including, over 15 bridges and culverts across the road.

At the White Horse, the temperature is always lower than the other regions of 8 to 10 degrees C. About the climate, here is similar to Da Lat, Sa Pa, Tam Dao... However, because it is near the sea winter temperatures never below 4 º C; and the highest temperature in the summer rarely exceeds 26 º C. White Horse's climate is considered one of the most pleasant climates of the retreat in the mountains of Indochina by foreign tourists.

The best time for tourists to enjoy the White Horse is the summer and early autumn. The air is cold; so it will encourage steps to conquer all visitors up to the beauty of places such as tunnels, airports, five lakes, Do Quyen Waterfalls... Here landscapes and monuments combine together to create White Horse to become a tourist destination with characteristic beauty.

In 1991, Bach Ma National Park was established. Initially, it was an area with the square is 22,031ha; so far, it was extended up into 37,487ha. Bach Ma is recognized 1,493 species of the animal and 2,147 species of the plant; there are the other 68 species of the animal and 86 species of the plant, which are at risk of extinction.

Before the end of the tour, to expand route, annually, Bach Ma received between 100,000 foreign tourists to visit and vacation.

The number of international tourists reached 1 billion people in 2012.

The tourism industry is one of the strengths of the global economy. The recent few years, the industry is on track to develop, but suddenly, economic crisis happened, so it has reduced almost all industries worldwide. In particular, tourism is not immune from this rule.

However, despite the prolonged economic crisis, the world’s tourists are expected to reach the figure of one billion visitors in 2012.
On 12-Dec-2012, according to "The Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UN WTO), Mr. Taleb Rifai said: The tourism’s demand has reached record numbers in 2012, although, the economic difficulties have occurred.




In 2012, the number of European visitors (a region that is suffered by the crisis of the public debt) increased by 3%; Asian visitors increased by 7%. And, the number of visitors worldwide is increased by 4% in comparison with that situation in 2011.
The statistics show that, there is a strong recovery of the industrial "exhaust" of the world than its status in 2009 (this time took place the global financial crisis made the tourism decrease of 3.8%). The growth rate of the world tourism is 6.6% in 2010.
According to the UN WTO, in 2030, the number of the international tourists will reach 1.8 billion.

Vietnam Airlines sells the last ticket period for the flights of Lunar New Year.

On 05-Dec-‘2012, Vietnam Airlines continued to sell tickets of the second Tet phase. This is the final phase open for sale in the plans for the Lunar New Year. So, this is the supply to customers on the number of seats on domestic flights in the peak period of the Snake New Year Tet.

During the Snake Tet New Year, it is from 25/Jan/2013 to 02/Mar/2013 (as from 14-December to 21-Jan based on lunar months); Vietnam Airlines will make about 1,000 flights. So, with the addition of nearly 174,500 seats for passengers can travel in the Lunar New Year on 10 routes, where people have a great demand for download.

Because of the above reasons, the lowest one-way prices are given priority over the air route between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City or between Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. The totals of the open spaces for this class are sold to more than 26 000 seats. This is a special idea annual which Vietnam Airlines launches on Lunar New Year to give passengers the more convenient travel opportunities.

The visitors note that this is the last open period of the plan ticketing service on the occasion of the Lunar New Year. So, on this occasion, Vietnam Airlines also announced the open sale of tickets of low-dimensional deviation; rate may be lower than usual prices. All these incentives are applicable on flights with low demand in the New Year period. Such flights are now departing daily before 7am and after 6pm.

The system of the Cat Ba’ islands in Hai Phong

Cat Ba has been recorded in the record books is the place has many islands in the Vietnam. One of the outstanding values of Cat Ba tourism is a system of islands and white-sand beaches; it represents the journey from the center of Cat Ba travel to Lan Ha Bay. The names of prominent islands like Cat Dua, Nam Cat, Viet Hai... They have become very familiar with each visitor. But, perhaps, it is not everyone always have the opportunity to set foot to explore and enjoy the natural beauty and fresh air of the attractions.

For many visitors, Cat Dua Island really brings interesting. It also provides inspiration for each person always looks forward to coming here at least once. Route to Cat Dua Island is also quite convenient, because this is the first stop on the journey to visit Lan Ha Bay. Visitors can go by the ship, canoe or boat to go from Ben Beo Tourist Pier. The guests must spend about 15 minutes to be able to set foot on the island. The first feel of the visitors is the cruise ship, and boat parked along the island to create a compelling scene is described as on the dock and the boat. However, all are very orderly and tidy; them not to make life and inspiration, but they are close to each visitor. Looking up the island, it is the ordering of human hands created the house with the service points are sticking at mountainside. In it, the house was roofed with bamboo or cork; they are very friendly to the environment. Another impression is certainly the fine white sand-beaches that are very long range. This is an ideal place to swim and relax with the blue water and white sand; they are from pieces of coral formations. This right is ideal for those who want a quiet, have the relaxing bath and soak in the blue space of the sea or the luxuriant vegetation on the island. During the tour here, most ships stop for visitors get on the island to admire what nature gave to Cat Ba. On this island, there is a growth of a lot of the wild pineapple trees which are luxuriant; they are high in proportion to the roof, that radiate shade down around them. Many tourists joked about that: Because on the island, there are many pineapples grow based on the queue along the sandy slope of the beach, so this place is called as “Cat Dua” (meaning as Pineapple Sand). As "Monkey Island" was the residents and visitors named for this island, because, there are some dozen monkeys that are very friendly here. They are ready to come out to drag the food from the visitor’s hands that are carelessness; they even run following or irritate visitors if they do not give them any gift. The monkeys are also a part to make the environment that's very natural and attractive on Cat Dua Island. The guests like it when they can take pictures or fun with the monkeys that hang dangling on the tree’s branches.

The values of the wild nature and the ways to exploit the natural treasure of Cat Dua Island have kept very the natural beauty. There are multiple layers of vegetation that grows luxuriantly in the island. They are always kept to form the natural green color. They provide the space and landscape of eco-tourism, which is the top attraction of Cat Ba. The trip to visit Lan Ha Bay also offers many interesting things in front, but certainly, the sense of Cat Dua will always bring sympathy for each visitor about a group of islands are considered by UNESCO who may recognize this place as a world natural heritage in the near future.

Suoi Tien Tourism in Khanh Hoa

Far from Nha Trang city about 17 kms, Suoi Tien is a famous scenic in Dien Khanh district. This place was also associated with the activities of Dr. Yersin (a French speaking Swiss was accepted to study under Pasteur and settling in Vietnam in 1891). Here, the middle school that bears his name and small temples revered explorers.

It derived from Hon Ba Mountain Area (where the Doctor Yersin grew the test plant as Canh-ki-na). The flow of Suoi Tien is towards the plain area of Dien Khanh district; it was a natural reef sits across to form an imposing stone dam which is very beautiful.

From here, the stream turns into two branches. The first branch that is oriented to the north way, works to provide water for the fields. The remaining branch that is facing to the east way, contacts with Cai River; then the flow goes out the sea.

From Nha Trang, there are two routes for tourists go to Suoi Tien. You can follow 1A Highway with the blend near Dau Spring. Here, there is an instructive table to lead the way to Tien Spring.

The guests can also go through the Dien Khanh ancient city based on Provincial Highway No 2 at Dien Hoa Ward. Here, there are amusement parks, rest and meals are provided to cater to the tourists.

The way up to the stream is very romantic. At the mall, there are many old buildings and temples or pagodas. At the back, there are the green trees on either side. The sound of the water flow is always rumbling throughout the four seasons.

There are many layers of the big rocks. We have a variety of shapes and colors in the middle of the stream. There are many large flat boulders; they are very clean. The guests can rest on the way to the stream.

Continue for about 20 meters, there is a small lake. Any place, visitors can stop to have fun, eat and rest or swimming baths. The visitors can walk on these rocks to be upstream up or go trails are hidden in the foliage of the forest.

The climate here is always cool. If you go on this path, it will be almost no sunlight through, so you'll feel like going in Hon Ba Forest.

If you are the people who take the time to explore, the more you move, the more you see the more beautiful scenery. The visitors will come to the area of the chess board, or is also known as Ho Tien. According to legend, in the past, this is a place which the fairies from the sky (the heaven) come down here to play chess.
If you go continuously forward, you will come to an area with the giant’s footprints. It is a legend of the legendary giants made Cu Lao and Hon Chong in Nha Trang.

The story goes that, in the past, there was a giant from Binh Dinh to explore the Fairy Stream. Because of the beautiful scene here, so it made him to absorb the sightseeing that he cannot pay attention to a moss-covered rock. He was slipped from the foot and during the rush, he stuck up a foot into the rock, and his hands also support on the cliffs to keep your balance.

With the weight of a thousand pounds, his hands were clinging to the rock so strong, so it broke a big rock; it was thrown away to Nha Trang Sea. Since then, it has been the formation of Cu Lao and Hon Chong. Currently, Suoi Tien is still imprinted in the fingers of the giant on the rock! (It's like fingerprints in Hon Chong, Nha Trang).

UNESCO approved Hung Vuong Worship Religion to become the heritage of humanity.

On the evening day 6/Dec/2012, in the 7th session of the "Intergovernmental Committee" on the protection of intangible cultural heritage was taking place in Paris (France), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culture Organization (UNESCO) has officially passed an approval about Hung Vuong King Worship Religion in Phu Tho province is the Intangible Cultural Heritage representative of humanity.

As soon as the chairman of the session (Mr. Arley Gill, Grenada) typed the hammer through the profile of Vietnam, a number of international delegations came to celebrate and share the joy with the Vietnamese delegation.

It could not hide the emotion, Ambassador of Vietnam, Mr. Duong Van Quang, who is a header of Vietnam's permanent delegation related to UNESCO, said: These are great news and honor for the people of Vietnam in general and the people of Phu Tho province, in particular.

This happiness for Phu Tho province has doubled, because last year, records Xoan singing of the province was also approved as an intangible cultural heritage that should be protected emergency.

The Hung Vuong King Worship Religion that was approved by UNESCO, shows that the world appreciated highly, and also recognizes the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people, it already has thousands of years.

Hung Vuong King Worship Religion was approved by UNESCO

An Ambassador of Vietnam, Mr. Duong Van Quang, in the context of cultural integration, the Belief Hung Vuong Worship in Phu Tho which was approved, proved the existence of a cultural life of Vietnam. It is associated with a flow of cultural integration in the world.

Shortly after this event, Mr. Hoang Dan Mac, who is the Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee of Phu Tho, gave reporters a quick interview at the headquarters of UNESCO on this new pleasure.

Mr. Hoang Dan Mac shared: This religion represents a spiritual foundation of the unity of the nation. It binds the community and makes the power of the people of Vietnam always overcome difficulties and challenges in the process of construction and development of the country. To preserve and promote the value of cultural heritage, Phu Tho province will be a lot of work to do. First, the province will begin drafting a program for action with a lot of content. In particular, there are a number of repair and associated certificates of intangible cultural heritage in the Hung Kings temple.

Some representatives said: In recent years, the State has a lot of interest in the intangible cultural heritage, thus the long-term strategy aimed at protecting and promoting the values of the cell cultural heritage in general; especially of ethnic minority heritage.

Earlier, at a press conference on 28/Nov/2012, Ms. Cécile Duvelle, as Head of the Secretariat of the 2003 Convention on the protection of intangible cultural heritage, has appreciated the preparation of Vietnam on suggest this heritage.

During study, to consider the nomination, one of the prominent points was the submission for Hung Vuong King Worship Religious profile, which was the UNESCO’s experts gave the good reviews. It has achieved the criteria include: the custom of the Hung Vuong Worshiping shows the reverence for ancestors; it adds to the pride and national unity; successful proposal will not encourage awareness of gratitude "predecessors" in many countries around the world, but also raise awareness of respect for cultural diversity in the community.

The reservation and promotion of the values will be guaranteed by Vietnam and local budget. These measures will ensure the maintenance and development of religion, at the same time it remains sacred and other provisions of belief.

Representatives of the village and the members of the festival has contributed positively to the preparation of the dossier. It also represents a consensus. Belief has been censored by the "Institute of Culture and Arts" under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam. It is based on the opinions of local communities in 13 districts in Phu Tho. Then, the results have been successful, as detailed above.

The profile for submission the Hung Kings threshold is a world heritage

According to history in Vietnam, the Hung Kings had created country. Today, on the day of the annual 10/March (calculated according to the lunar calendar), the festival here is held to commemorate the work of the reign of King Hung. As such it has an important significance in the formation of Vietnam today.
Recently, there was a press conference held on 29/11 at the headquarters of the Organization Culture, Science and Education of the United Nations (UNESCO) in Paris (France). Ms. Cécile Duvelle who is a secretariat of the convention of the intangible cultural conservation of UNESCO, said that: 

“The records about the religious worship of Hung King in Vietnam will be one of 35 submitted items to the heritage through its recognition of the intangible cultural heritage of the world at the 7th Conference of the Commission Intergovernmental conservation of intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO, will be held from 03/12 to 07/12 in Paris."

Ms Cécile Duvelle said more, Vietnam is a very dynamic country. This year's report of Vietnam on the protection of cultural heritage is very detailed and good reviews.

Ms. Cécile Duvelle was not able to remember all the measures that Vietnam has made in the report. One of them is the educational measures to raise awareness of the people, but she said that:

“Vietnam is a country with many initiatives in the conservation of cultural heritage.”

She also appreciated the application of knowledge about heritage conservation education in a variety of ways and under a variety of forms.

Vietnam was also mentioned in the report of the Committee of the UNESCO heritage. By these measures, they show that the heritage conservation is remarkable. She emphasized clear: Vietnam is an example shows that it not every rich country can offer the best conservation measures. In particular, Vietnam has attached to the preservation of the cultural heritage with country's sustainable development, cultural development and socioeconomic development.

In addition, at a press conference, Ms. Cécile Duvelle announced the contents will be discussed in the coming to the 7^th meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee about the Conservation of the intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO. It mentioned such as the financial problems, the positive and practical measures for the conservation and promotion of the intangible cultural heritage in the world; it established the committee to consider, evaluate test for the heritage nomination in 2012, to prepare proposals for the organization of the 10^th anniversary of the Convention on the preservation of intangible cultural heritage (2003-2013).

On the other hand, there is a consideration of requests for help from international country to some other countries and consider the report of the member countries of UNESCO for the implementation of the 2003 Convention. This is one of the important contents will be discussed at the 7^th session of the Intergovernmental Committee about the Conservation of the intangible cultural heritages of UNESCO.

Four major tourist attractions in the winter in the North of Vietnam

If the domestic tourists from the Southern Vietnam have a chance to come out of the Northern Vietnam at this time, people should visit the following locations to fully feel the cold of winter.

The town of Sapa in Lao Cai

At any given time, the Sapa town is very beautiful and romantic. The beauty is associated with features of the high peace interspersed in the clouds and the fog disappear all fatigue and anxiety. That is why here and for a long time, it has been viewed as "a resort paradise".

Located in a high position in comparison with the sea level, Sapa is cold all time. But It is especially coldest in the winter with negative temperature a few degrees. With this cold weather, some visitors do not choose this place ought to be at this time. However, the difference from those people, there are some other people think the opposite, they will be watching the ice on the grass in the early morning. Besides, there are few tourists come here in this season, so you will feel the life here with its inherent rhythm.

Tam Dao Town

If on the other seasons of the year, Tam Dao charm heart with the beauty of the three majestic mountains and pristine; they are hidden or appeared in clouds in the morning or afternoon. However, in the winter, its beauty becomes more poetic with the fanciful clouds are as standing in the visitor’s footsteps.



If you come here at this time, you are not afraid to do a little conquest of the mountain to feel an experience of the fun for climbing without sweating; or you can take the photos the fog and clouds. A small note for your climbing as: You should not have over a large number of coats, gloves, hats... Because it is only a few minutes later, all heated objects that it will become a burden on your itinerary.

Yen Tu Mountain

The Yen Tu mountain sacred mountain has marked strong in the heart of the fascinating myths and legends. It is a place to keep many historical sites known as "the land of Buddhism in Vietnam."

There are two ways you can conquer the mountain; you can slowly climb up thousands of stone steps with mountainous roads within 6 hours (about 6000m); the second is for you to choose with walking and using the cable system to hook up the "gate of heaven" (2 times). Every way, you have a different interesting and experience. However, most of them are in common; it after your success about conquering the mountain happens, and the next few days, you will have the leg pain.

If you come here in the winter, in addition to a sense of the beauty of the mountains are at the time hidden in the clouds. And you are attracted by the beautiful landscape and the cold weather of the forest on the mountain path.

Mai Chau

The Mai Chau plateau is beautiful in the winter with the ice glittering streets, colorful wildflower ties, the graze cows on the vast steppe. The cold winter here in the smile, eyes shining, arms and lively spread dances.

Besides, this plateau is also a series of other travel services for your experience such as exploring the Hoa Binh hydropower, conquer the bat cave... If you have time, you do not forget to visit Thung Nai, explore the Da Bac cave, soak in hot springs in Kim Boi.

The Cho cave - Archaeological monuments in the Hoa Binh province

The Cho cave belongs to Hui hamlet, in Cao Ram village, Luong Son district, Hoa Binh province. It is far from the central of Hoa Binh city about 42km based on the northeast way, from Hanoi capital about 40km.

According to Hmong language, it means "snail cave"; because inside the cave, there are many snails are on the floor of the cave.

In the past, local people were used to whoreson's dung in the cave to create the gunpowder, so it is also known as Mai Da Diem. In some books on "Cultures of Hoa Binh" published in the 80s of the twentieth century, scientists have used the name Mai point of to refer to as the information in the book: Culture of Peace Vietnamese in the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology, published in 1989 in Hanoi. Up to the present, all people call it the same as “Cho cave”.

The Cho cave is located the southwest way of the Sang mountains; the store turned toward the southwest is a high stone roof, airy, cool. Store field higher than 6.5 m; Top has two doors separated by a large rock with a circumference of about 27m. The main door is 11m in width; the side door’s width is 5.5 m; and an average elevation is 10 meters. If you go to inside about 15m, the square is narrower. The width of the largest grotto, there is room up to 14m; two doors were turned southwest so it has cool wind in summer and avoids the cold North wind in winter.

The Cho cave is concaved in the middle; it is merged much. The reason is the local people went in the cave to dug background and take to fertilize the farm land; and by excavation’s surveillance, excavations made. At 1 meter deep in the cave, these are the pits by the Peace Museum staff with the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology dig surveillance 11/1998.

Before the entrance of the cave is a 100-hectare valley not far from the cave (about 1km); bobbing of a low range of hills. There is a small stream that runs through here. The trees in a valley are always lush. With status of the geography, topography and natural as possible, cave is an ideal place of residence of the population and the Culture of Peace youth.

Cho cave has been interested in Ms. M.Colani, a French archaeological woman found from 9 to December 13, 1926 (unpublished document). During excavation, she obtained in 1143 exhibits of all kinds. Currently, there are 59 artifacts stored at the Museum of Vietnamese History.

To add more the resources for study of the stone age, in 1984, the Museum of Ha Son Binh was in combination with the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology Research continued to investigate. They have collected many types such as: animal bones, stone tools, cutting tools, disk tools...

On 20-March-1998, Hoa Binh Museum in conjunction with the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology continued survey, research the Cho cave. Join the union, there is a contribution of a history professor name Mr. Tran Quoc Vuong. Survey team, studied caves and rocky area in front of the store. They have collected 40 stone tools scattered in the crop garden plots around it. Taking 59 artifacts are stored at the Museum of Vietnamese History, the total numbers of artifacts in the ruins were nearly 100 artifacts.

In November 1998, the scientific cooperation program about Cao Ram area, Luong Son district, Hoa Binh Museum again with the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology combined to investigate the entire survey area in Cao Ram land and training for murder. Area dug 4m2, 1.2 m deep. According to preliminary reports, the artifacts collected a relatively large volume. They include 1,230 artifacts; 31 pieces of, material stone 110, 117 labor tools, 36 fragments tools, bone with 18 (chisels, knives, cutting-edge tools).

According to research by scientists in the survey and excavation, the results confirmed stick: Monuments cave for long inhabited by prehistoric inhabitants of the Peace. At the same time, it is also a cultural vestige dating back around 10,000 years ago, during the period of transition to the "stone medium term" in our country.

The Cho cave is the important archaeological ruin, high-value research and visit on a history of popular culture: "Hoa Binh Culture ". In addition, while visiting the Cho cave, visitors can look at the historical, cultural and other scenic spots in Cao Ram village as Man Nguyen cave and the Khu Thuong or Nui Sang cave.

Promote Ha Long Bay to the world's largest tourism market

Ha Long Bay has been famous in the world. Therefore, when promoting the program is done, it is extremely attracted travelers and brought a high efficiency. Indeed, the evening of 15/11/2012, in Hanoi, Quang Ninh People's Committee has an action in collaboration with the Vietnam Aviation Corporation (Vietnam Airlines) to hold a press conference to introduce the "Ha Long Week 2012" for the European market in this province.

Ha Long Bay Photo 1

The program of "Halong Week 2012" will take place from 27 to 30/11/2012 in Ha Long city - Quang Ninh province with some contents such as:

- Tours and experience about the tourism’s product on the bay and a number of other tourist attractions

- Programs as contact, exchange with the product introduction and business cooperation between Vietnam's tourism with the same company in the European market.

- Workshop on promoting the tourism potential of Ha Long.

Attending into this program, there are more than 200 representatives of the media, travel companies, marketing parts directly sell travel program in Vietnam with people in European countries.

In addition, that is the leading travel company in Vietnam. And Vietnam Airlines shuttle mission of European tourists, and participate in expanding tourism market in the continent.

Ha Long Bay Photo 2

Mr. Ha Quang Long, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Quang Ninh province said that this event aims to tourism to promote the image of Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province to the European market. It creates favorable conditions for business, travel, hotels, transportation... And it directly does some works as follows:

- Accessing, exchanging and getting cooperation with tour operators or the media of the European market

- Quang Ninh Tourism will receive comments and contributions of the travel businesses from the continent. This is the world's largest tourism market.

The project started on the renovation and restoration of Quan Tuong Dai monuments

On 30/10, 2012, the center of Hue Monuments Conservation was in collaboration with The Institute of Science and Technology in Vietnam Central to organize to start the project for the renovation and restoration of the Quan Tuong Dai area. It belongs to Hue relics system. This monument is located in the region has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Quan Tuong Dai monuments

The project has a total of investment is 3.799 billion VND; a budget is taken from the source of ticket’s sale which tourists go to visit the relics of the Center of Hue Monuments Conservation.

The items were recovered, conservation projects, including the base’ part, Bat Phong communal house, the path from the root of wall to upstairs and infrastructure (drainage systems, lightning protection, lighting and fire safety) are ​​924m² square of the Quan Tuong Dai area.

Works are done by the Institute of Science and Technology of Vietnam Central which is a unit experienced in the field of restoration of Hue relics, take the implementation of the design.

This work is expected to be completed in August 2013’ with the time is 10 months for construction. It will be significant for contributing to the completion for an appearance of Hue Citadel. When it completes, the upper-Wall area will be an interesting tour’s route for tourists with the prominent is Bat Phong communal house and Quan Tuong Dai. It is a place which visitors can see far to Perfume River area – Con Gia Vien and the landscape of mountains or river in Hue on sunny days. And most people especially watch the sun go down at sunset.

The path to Quan Tuong Dai

The Quan Tuong Dai monument which is on Nam Minh fort Nam Minh, is in the southwest of Hue Citadel. This place was used to be a place which Kham Thien Giam agency of the Nguyen Dynasty put the observatory about the weather phenomena and meteorological forecasts.

On the watchtower, in 1827, Minh Mang King built Bat Phong communal house. End time of the Nguyen Dynasty, the operation of the Kham Thien Giam agency was gradually narrowed at the same time with the decline of the dynasty. Up to the present time, “Quan Tuong Dai” is almost only the ruins.

Discover Vietnam with Martin Yan on TV

This is a reality television program so that people can discover Vietnam with Martin Yan (As a famous Chinese-born American chef). It took place for the first time in Vietnam with the presence of the chef notable Martin Yan that in the same role as a host. He is also the main character in the journey across three regions of Vietnam. All of these journeys are tracing the cultural heritage that has been the world loved, recognized and preserved, developed at the national level.

Martin Yan is a famous chef

Through food, there is the introduction of tourism; through tourism, have created the identity preservation and promote the image of the country. This is the main idea and purpose of the program "Discover Vietnam with Martin Yan" was designed and created with the desire as: It is one of the first audio-visual products that bring charming Vietnamese culture, introduced widely in the international community. The program will consist of 26 episodes with durations of 22 to 24 minutes / set.

The shrimp food was cooked by Martin Yan

Each set is built as a short memoir; it consists of 70% of the time is set in the most famous scenic spots of each region and the remaining 30% of the time is filming in the studio.
Each program will have two to three dishes that are Martin Yan made at the site along with the Vietnamese represent the host and other guests.
The program of "Discover Vietnam with Martin Yan" is an idea to celebrate and contribute for the year is called the year of the 2012 National Heritage of Vietnam.
Channel broadcasting in the country is expected as: HTV, DRT, KTV, THVL... and specializes in culinary tourism channels in the country and the world.
In addition, the program will be broadcast to 25 countries around the world.

Cat Ba Island is ranked national scenic

Cat Ba Island is one of the scenic beauties in Hai Phong province - Vietnam. Recently, on 25th Sep 2012, the department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Hai Phong said the Ministry of “Culture, Sports and Tourism” has a decision to rank Cat Ba Island (in Cat Hai district, Hai Phong) is the national-level scenic spots.

This event is of great significance for the city of Hai Phong in National Tourism Year -2013 of the Red River Delta. At the same time, it is a local basis to continue to help implement the steps to UNESCO recognizes Cat Ba Island - Long Chau is the world's natural heritage.

Cat Ba island in Hai Phong city

This decision is also the basis for Hai Phong City to prepare for the complete submission to the Council of National Heritage, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Thereby, the Department will report to the Prime Minister issued the decision to rank beauty and landscapes of Cat Ba Island; here as well as special national relics.

Earlier, the National Heritage Council consists of 27 members met with the Committee of UNESCO Vietnam and the People's Committee of Hai Phong city. They approved dossiers for the submission to UNESCO for recognition of Cat Ba Island - Long Chau as the World Natural Heritage.

Council has assessed the quality and preparation. The construction of Hai Phong city records showed clear content to highlight the value of bio-diversity and natural values of Cat Ba Island - Long Chau.

National Heritage Council has adopted and records required to edit content on a number of points, and this before the Prime Minister for approval in time for the completion of the dossier to be submitted to UNESCO.

Sapa town is shimmering-beautiful at night.

Sapa is a town of Lao Cai Province of Vietnam. It becomes beautiful; it is not particularly foggy scene during the day, but also shimmering at night. The white mist blowing in the wind covered the rooftops, streets, trees...

Along the gently sloping road in the middle of town, it is the dim light of the street lamps; wisps of mist spread out gently to drive away the darkness deep chasms. Heaven as of late, "the town in the clouds" is as cold and strange.


The stalls sell fragrant barbecue grills. The smoke emitted as beckons hungry diners. Everyone wants to enjoy a little taste of the mountains. Some ethnic minority women are persistent sat selling little notes "Brocade"; then they all left back to the village in the cold frosty night.

Away a bit of the Cau May street, people clearly felt wild looks of the northwestern mountains. Besides ears, you were leaving only the sound of the wind and cold dew of paddy. There are couples traveling on the road; they sometimes put his hands rub up and apply on the cheek. Despite wearing three four times, but many people still cannot dispel the cold here.


If anyone has one to Sapa certainly cannot forget the feeling when watching the scene on the night of the town. A beauty fluttered; we do anyone leaving, must also nostalgic, and then thought that "going back to Sapa more times".

Vietnamese spring rolls and tunic conquered the public in Mexico.

The unique cuisine with delicious spring rolls or fried rice with the charm of Vietnamese traditional ao dai has conquered the public in a cultural event is the Festival of the community water out in the city of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico.

The fried spring rolls

The doctor’s acupuncture of the Union Central Institute has the same students and Vietnamese students who are studying in the city of Zacatecas, attended cultural festival of the foreign community in order to strengthen friendly relations with the people of this country. Thereby further tightening of love between the foreign community, who currently live, work and study in the territory of the state of Zacatecas.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Héctor Alfredo Márquez Medina, executive director of the National Institute of Residential (INM) in the state of Zacatecas has highlighted the good relations between natives and the foreign community in states. He wanted the foreigners to update information regularly about their rights and responsibilities in the host country.

The Vietnam's tunic is a long dress style

Over time a day, locals and international visitors not only enjoy many traditional dishes, but they also admire the diverse cultures of countries such as Vietnam, France, Spain, Latin American countries and especially the host country.

Many travelers who appreciate the Vietnamese culture; it reflected the unique dishes and subtle, as well as charming long dress.

Earlier, the representative of the Vietnamese delegation with the foreign community here was to lay a wreath at the Armed Square to remember Sr. William Sanchez Manosalva, who is a Colombian, has devoted his life for the foreign community in northern Mexico.

Quan Ho tourism and community development

They are the cultures associated with Kinh Bac area in Bac Ninh province. With the people here, Quan Ho singing is very familiar; however, the related form of tourism is quite new. And after spent nearly two years, there was the development test model of tourism in the community in the areas. Those are areas as Dinh To, Phu Lang and Hoa Long. The results bring some efficiency. It changed the perception of the local people on how to make a tour in their families, villages and their homeland. Mr. Hoan, the Head of Management Unit of a community tourism project of Hoa Long said: At first, when listening to the community-based tourism development, people're new. In particular, there are the mixtures of joy and anxiety. Happy, will have the opportunity to increase revenue. People are worried because everyone has never known such tourism. Fears are about the influence of common life. However, with the help of the project staff, people familiar with the work directly to participate in tourism activities. Namely organizing the reception, introduce and advertise with visitors about the cultural values as well as the extraordinary cuisine of their homeland. It involves the manufacture and processing of products or selling tourist souvenirs... In addition; people also join the course instructors, cooking, music performances and reception to get acquainted with the professional tourism. Thus, people in the village were aware of tourism resources brought from the maintenance of daily life, to preserve cultural identity, creating trust and love for visitors.

Ms. Huong, a member of management guidance on the community tourism project in Dinh To commune said: The local advantage is that I know every detail and the statues in the But Thap pagoda, so I can fully introduce the cultural values and history of the temple. I can also answer any concerns or questions related to the monument so visitors enjoyed. After each explanation and introduction to tourists like that, I have access to learn more knowledge. I also trained to be confident in communication, behavior... Obviously, the benefits of community-based tourism bring is huge. It does not need to invest too much money, but it will also help the community here has the opportunity to increase income and improve the quality of life of both "physical and mental". Thereby, it still preserving local cultural values, landscape and environment protection and service needs to explore, learn and experience of visitors. Mr. Con, a header of the Travel Industry (Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Bac Ninh) concluded: If this model is developed and expanded, it will contribute to the exploitation and maximize the potential of tourism in the province today. Therefore, in the master plan for tourism development in the Bac Ninh period from 2011 to 2020 and orientations to 2030, community-based tourism was identified as one of the important objectives. It ensures the sustainability of tourism development in the province.

Visit Ngo Mon gate in Hue Citadel

Ngo Mon Gate which means the building gate, has the face toward “Horse way”. However, it is a special port because a massive scale and unique architecture. At the same time, this is a very convenient location so visitors can enjoy views of the city of Hue.

Hue Citadel is now the citadel in Hue city. Here, the Nguyen dynasty was chosen as the citadel for 140 years (1805-1945). Currently, the imperial city of Hue is one of the relics of Hue relics’ cluster was recognized by UNESCO as world cultural heritage. Go to visit the capital city of Hue, the first impression is the Ngo Mon Gate, the main entrance to the south and the largest of four main gates of the imperial city of Hue.

Architecturally, Ngo Mon architecture similar in many ways compared to the works in Beijing, but the architectural style is evident Vietnam people. Ngo Mon Gate has two main parts, the first part is as Dai of gate and Ngu Phung house. The gate’s Dai shapes as U letter- plane perpendicular, the bottom length 57.77 m, 27.06 m long side. Station was built of brick-stone, combined with the copper-bearing beams. “Dai” is nearly 5 meters high, covering an area of more than 1.560 m2. Dai’s body has 5 aisles. The center aisle was only for the King’s route. Two entrances of the sides (belong to the right and left of Giap Mon door) are for the literature’ court of the King; and the martial arts in the same group. Two external walkways on both the right and left wings of U shape are similar sides of Dich Mon door are for soldiers and horses.

Ngu Phung house is located above the Dai of gate. The exception of the Dai’s body, the house also exalted by a 1.15 m high floor systems also run throughout the Dai’s U-shaped body. Ngu Phung house has two floors, the frame structure fully is made of ironwood with 100 pillars. The first roof connects around to cover for the corridor. Back on the floor divided into 9 sets with lots of decorative with the shape of bird and Phoenix is very great. The roof in the middle of the Ngu Phung house is covered by yellow tiles; eight remaining sets is blue tile.

It is not only is its unique architecture, Ngo Mon Gate is a place that visitors reminiscent of a feudal history through the introduction of a sweet female guider. This house has a very special location. Standing on the upstairs of the Ngu Phung house is place for tourists to admire the scenery around the old capital city of Hue. Looking forward ahead, it is between the large spaces is a red flag with the yellow star flew embryo waving on Dai’s top. This is a relatively the large structure, was witnessed many important historical events. On 08.23.1945, the flag of Vietnam Democratic Republic was the first time flying here, signaling the end of the monarchy. Ky Dai is not only the unique architecture, but also a symbol of the imperial city of Hue. Ngo Mon Square is between Ky Dai and Ngo Mon. The place which we look inward, is the Thai Hoa Palace. It is leading to the by Trung Dao bridge across the Thai Dich lake approached the the main big yard.

Ngo Mon Gate is one of the old buildings, typical of rural Ngu Mountain - Huong River. Although, this building has spent more than a century and a half under the mental state of the storms of nature and war, but due to the ingenious construction techniques and architectural art are good, so it will alive during the time. Let's take to visit to the old capital city of Hue to see Vietnam history. Ngo Mon Gate is the place witnessed many important historical events. Here, the ancient, it occur frequently the most important ceremony of Nguyen’s dynasty. On 08/25/1945, at Ngo Mon gate, Bao Dai Emperor, the last emperor of Vietnam, had read about the abdication manifesto to give power for new government of Vietnam.

Two Vietnam cities are chosen as the destination by Singapore’s article

With many attractive destinations, it is hard to choose the highlights destinations in comparison with the rests. The AsiaOne article of Singapore selected Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang in top destinations which not far from Singapore, hidden beauty.

Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) is the leading destination mentioned by AsiaOne writing. The city has the Duc Ba church; here, there are many beautiful architectural buildings in the middle of the city center. Many other great buildings are next to modern ones. The food is delicious with a huge attraction for tourists.

The Duc Ba church in Ho Chi Minh city

Da Nang (Vietnam) is a city located in the central region of Vietnam, delicious cuisine of many regions. Travel to Da Nang, tourists should not forget to visit the Ngu Hanh Son mountain. In addition, visitors can also choose the more interesting points that are close to the city, Cu Lao Cham Island.

The Ngu Hanh Son mountain in Da Nang city

The other places are selected, can be enumerated as follows:

Vientiane (Laos): Travel to here, you will have the opportunity to visit the Buddha Park, the Arc de Triomphe, the real wage, the temples and pagodas throughout the city. Then, tourists can see beautiful scenery on the cruise on the Mekong River flows through Laos capital.

Lombok (Indonesia) is a city with many natural beauties, diving, traditional massage, fishing, exploring by bicycle ...

Makassar (Indonesia): Travel to the city, tourists can visit the world's largest indoor amusement, enjoy Pallubasa - a local variety of soup. Other destinations include ancient forts, stunning dive sites, the iconic architectural projects.

Okyakarta (Indonesia): This is the center of education, culture ... It has shopping malls attract tourists and temples. The Prambadan and Borobudur pagodas are most famous in this city.

Cochi (India): There are many projects like museums, temples ... The end of the year there are festivals the city with vibrant culture. This city was once a busy commercial port of India.

Siem Reap (Cambodia): The city with the houses on water, transportation by Tuk Tuk vehicle in city. Come here, you can not forget the famous Lights Angco.

Kotakinabalu (Malaysia): a destination to attract tourists, there are scuba diving spots, tropical forests. The Sabah top is the third in the height in Southeast Asia located in Kotakinabalu.

Yangon (Myanmar): The city with the mall British-style shopping. In recent years, many luxury foods are grown.