Bac Ha Market - Sapa

Bac Ha Market- Sapa
Opened every Sunday at the center of Bac Ha township, Bac Ha Market is the biggest ethnic one in Lao Cai Province and probably among some most interesting ones in the northern mountains.
Bac Ha Market- the most interesting ethnic market in Lao Cai province
Being a minority ethnic people market, Bac Ha market is located in 80 km from Sapa.Bac Ha is famous for its Sunday market which is a trading centre and meeting place for couples, friends, and relatives. Tours in Vietnam
Every Sunday, Bac Ha hosts the biggest fair near the mountainous highlands and the Chinese border. It is the largest and most colourful market in the area and attracts villagers from the surrounding hill tribes. Some walk several hours for the weekly opportunity to trade and barter food, animals, clothes and household goods.
Bac Ha Market is not only the place for buying and selling, but also a place for cultural and sentiment exchange- the place to meet new friends or find out the lover of locals. On the market days, right from the early morning, all paths and mountain roads are full of people in their beautiful dresses and horses pouring to the market. People usually sit in groups around a soup pan (“thang co”) eating and chatting. North Vietnam travel packages
Sapa Travel Guide- Bac Ha Market1

Many different ethnic groups such as Flower H’mong, Phu La, Black Dao, Tay and Nung minorities gather to buy and sell local products that cannot be found elsewhere. The market was very crowded, local products for sale or barter are carried on horseback. Besides the usual items like pigs, cows, chickens, and ducks, Bac Ha Market sold dogs. As dogs were available as cuts of meat, they were also available live, right next to the live pigs, chickens, and other livestock. There was a brisk trade at the market for everything from hand-embroidered skirts to all manner of 4-legged animals. The “fresh” meat section is not for the faint of heart and might steer more than a few visitors in the direction of strict vegetarianism.
Sapa Travel Guide- Bac Ha Market02

Though tourists were not in short supply, they were not the focus. Most locals paid little attention to them, rather choosing to focus on their business and the short Sunday-sized window of opportunity. Rounding the corner and pungent fumes of alcohol accosted your senses of smell, from corn whiskey, a Bac Ha specialty. The potent moonshine is decanted by vendors from large white plastic jugs to used bottled water containers. If you doubt the ability of a vendor’s hooch to peel paint or light your senses on fire, you can try a shot for free.
Sapa Travel Guide- Bac Ha Market03

At the fair, adventurous visitors can try “thang co” blood porridge, a popular dish of the H’Mong and other local people. The Flower H’mong minority is the most common here, and their colourful dresses make it a beautiful sight.
Let’s visit Bac Ha Market and you will be able to experience a wide range of different colorful ethnic minorities and more interesting things of life in the mountains…
Your trip to Bac Ha Market and Sapa definitely will be a life time experience for the whole members in family. So, if you want to book a Sapa Tours with trekking to villages and colorful markets for your family, please contact us and tell us your interests, needs and budget.Golden Holiday Travel will plan a perfect Vietnam Tours that suits for your wishes.We wish you to have great Sapa Tours with us and hope that you will come back !

Muong Khuong Market- Sapa
Muong Khuong is a district of Lao Cai province, it’s far from Lao cai 50km and 90 km from Sapa. In here, there is special market on every Sunday, it’s Muong Khuong market. This is the biggest of the minority here, gathered many products to sell and trade such as: handicraft, cattle, vegetable, traditional incense and local products…
Muong Khuong Market
Bordering with Chinese Yunnan Province, Muong Khuong is a district of Lao Cai Province which is home to a diversity of ethnic minority groups including H’mong, Zao, Nung, Pa Zi and Tu Zi.
  Sapa Travel Guide- Muong Khuong
Located at the center of the township, Muong Khuong Market, the most important market of the local ethnic peoples,takes place on every Sunday, is always crowded with some thousands minority people from early morning. The H’mong and the Zao peoples, especially women are always wear their best colorful traditional costume and take the largest number. The Tu Zi and Pazi are of minor number but their traditional costume are of special model with dark color and high top hats. There are also many ethnic minority people come from the other side of the border, who often bring cheap Chinese made commodity to add to the variety of goods for sales at the market.
  Muong Khuong Market 02
Beside a collection of most popular commodity such as clothes, vegetable, food, farming tools, animals… which can be found in other market in the regions, some local specialties can be found at Muong Khuong Market including resin, incense made from tree bark, and medicinal herb for treatment together with acupuncture.
Our one day trip to Muong Khuong from Sapa or from Lao Cai for those clients taking Saturday night train from Hanoi offers not only a chance to join the ethnic locals at this impressive market but also many opportunities to pay visiting to near by villages and admiring stunning scenery around the region.
* Muong Khuong is 50km from Lao Cai, 1.5 hour to drive and 87km from Sapa, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Ha Giang Forest Festival

Although the Pu Peo is ethnic people in Ha Giang, they still preserved many liturgies and a folklore treasure. Along with other liturgies are held in the New Year, people prays dryad for the green of forest, security for people in the forest fest. Also, from this ceremony, the forest has the Pu Peo protected very well, especially, the sacred forest. They protect the forest in order to have water for farming and have wood for making house. Each year, on June 6th lunar calendar, people held this fest with the most solemn rites. North Vietnam tours

The fest takes place in the forbidden forest, the sorcerer faces in a big tree and bow in the ground in order to pray dryad for protecting their village. The Pu Peo always understands that preserving forest is keeping water.

All thing were displayed on the banana leaf forest, the altar was constructed of green bamboo with nearly 2 meters height, facing the mountain. The square glutinous rice pounded to a pulp to make cakes, sliced carefully. On each piece of rice is a small boiled egg. It the bottom of the altar, there has 2 chickens which are still alive. Around the altar is bottle wine and bowl. Besides, they have forced a female goat near the altar. The fest lasts several hours; sorcerer holds a fresh bamboo waving in all time of liturgy. Sometimes, he holds a dried gourd. The rite shows the respect of human divided into three stages. The first stage, chickens and goats still live, the second stage, the youngsters cut their neck and finally, people have meal in this place right. The families do not attend, they also were divided food. Halong Jasmine Cruise

During the day, with the jubilant atmosphere and the unity of ethnic groups in the village, the liturgy was implemented by the Pu Peo ethnic. The festival part is involved by whole people in the village. Having traditional sports such as: push sticks, tug, playing “ao”…attract a large number of ethnic groups. Besides, folk song programs will be presented by the Pu Peo ethnic. Jasmine Cruise

Harmony with nature, respect and protect natural forest as friend become a common sense of Pu Peo community, shown in each family, village. Each sacred forest is protected by people. It not only brings physical value and spiritual value but also contributes to protect and develop environment.

Ha Giang Praying for Rain Festival 

Praying for rain festival of the Lo Lo is common religious in agriculture. On the festival occasions, almost all activities of the Lo Lo are aimed at praying for rain. They wish the rain down to the Meo Vac field and they pray for a prosperous forever.

Every March, when the climate is dry and trees lack water, Lo Lo ethnic people in Meo Vac, Ha Giang Province often held a praying for rain festival. With typical rituals, the festival, handed down from generation to generation, is also an opportunity to meet one another.

Ha Giang Praying for Rain Festival 

The praying for rain festival is often held on the 15th, 17th, 19th of the 3rd lunar month. It is only organized when the weather is harsh or drought appears. Previously, rich people in villages used to pay for the cost of the festival but nowadays each villager contributes an item to the festival. Objects include a chicken, a dog or a kilogram of rice is taken to the house of a sorcerer or village chief. To have a successful praying for rain festival, the first procedure that cannot be avoided is to organize a ceremony to ask ancestral sorcerers for aid.

The procedure is quite easy, including a cup of water, incense and bamboo paper (a kind of papers that is used for sacrifices of the Lo Lo people). First of all, the sorcerer burns incense at the family ancestor’s altar and then, the cup of water and the paper are placed at a house corner. After that, the sorcerer starts worshipping. He covers the water cup with the bamboo paper; if the water in the cup is not absorbed or poured out of the cup, “permission is granted” and then, the praying for rain festival will be successful. Finally, the sorcerer burns the bamboo paper and the procedure is completed.

The Lo Lo ethnic people believe that after organizing the festival within three to nine days, it will rain. The festival is divided into two parts: the ritual and the festival. The ritual is made with the participation of villagers. Live objects such as dogs and chicken will be taken to the praying place and worshipped twice. After being used for worshipping for the first time, village’s boys will slaughter them and use the meat for worshipping again.

When the worship finishes, villagers drink the alcohol, eat the meat and dance. Beautiful Lo Lo girls dance in their traditional costumes weaved with colorful patterns.

The rain praying festival is a typical cultural activity bearing unique characteristics. The festival is an opportunity for villagers to pray for luck and show their faith in God

Saigon Diaries – A Day Trip to The Mekong Delta

Most flights to Vietnam land in its chaotic business hub – Ho Chi Minh City aka Saigon. Now we can definitely forgive you for staring at postcards with picture-perfect Vietnamese panoramas of rice paddies while you are surrounded by Saigon’s nightmarish traffic. These postcards seem to be selling a bucolic haven, enveloped by mist, that’s nowhere to be found. The only ‘mist’ you’ll see here is a result of the fumes arising from thousands of motorbikes on Saigon’s busy roads. If you have over a week or two, it’s possible to experience idyllic Vietnam in all its glory at Halong Bay, Phu Quoc, or Mui Ne/Phan Thiet. If not, then a Day Trip to the Mekong Delta is the perfect way to get a taste of the gorgeous Vietnamese countryside.

A 2-hour drive through suburban Saigon leads to My Tho, an important market town and the gateway to the bustling floating markets of the Mekong Delta. The Mekong River, known as The Mighty Dragon or The River of the Nine Dragons in Vietnam, is the life-line of six countries in Asia (Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and China). It passes through temple cities, lush tropical forests, swamps, rice plantations and boasts of some of the richest and most fertile landscapes in the world. Jasmine Cruise

So we decided to go for a sampan cruise on one of the tributaries of the Mekong.
We opted for a private tour and had the entire boat to ourselves

Our guide Nam, a young university student, gave us a short geographical lesson before we boarded a small boat that took us to Unicorn Island, named after a Chinese mythological figure. We sat on a wobbly bench under a thatched roof as we sampled Vietnamese honey tea. Regular tea is flavoured with the juice of kumquats (a small citrusy fruit, similar to limes) and sweetened with home-made honey. Southern Vietnam Discovery

Bee pollen might be the newest health fad to hit the western world, but here in the backwaters of Vietnam, it is generously spooned into every cup of tea. We sipped on the tea and munched on the accompanying candied ginger, banana chips, and peanut bars as we observed the ritual being repeated for dozens of tourists around us.

Saigon Diaries – A Day Trip to The Mekong Delta

Moments later, we were treated to a rather weary song and dance routine by local musicians before being ferried to a neighbouring island, known as the Kingdom of Coconut. Ben Tre Island boasts of over 45,000 hectares of coconut trees, so make sure you carry an insect repellent spray or wear a mosquito repellent band when you venture to this part of the country. Every day hundreds of tourists visit this island, so the thrill of stumbling on something new is almost non-existent. But that doesn’t mean it’s any less fun.

We visited a local coconut factory and tried our hand at making coconut candy. We failed miserably, so we drowned our sorrows in snake wine- yes that’s a thing! Don’t believe us? Take a look

But we didn’t stop there – our guide treated us to a calorie-laden lunch comprising fried fish, scrumptious Pho, and Vietnamese rice-paper spring rolls. Once we were suitably stuffed, we decided to go on a bike-ride through the Vietnamese country side (yes, that’s how smart we are). As you might have predicted we were panting for breath in no time :-)

Towards the end of the day, we decided to go for a Sampan cruise on one of the tributaries of the Mekong. We stepped into our boat tentatively but started enjoying the ride almost as soon as our boat started making its way past lush palm trees and stunning green foliage. Day trips such as this are bound to feel ‘touristy’, but one look at the brightly-coloured boats bobbing along the calm waters of the Mekong made us fall in love with the river. We’ll definitely be back for more….

FACT FILE
A Day Trip to the Mekong Delta is the perfect way of getting a taste of the Vietnamese countryside if you only 1 day to spare. If you have 2-3 days, make sure you visit the floating markets in Can Tho as well.
We booked our Day Trip to the Mekong Delta with Impress Travels – their staff arranged everything well and promptly responded to all our queries within hours over email. Highly recommended.
The tour costs anywhere between $35-65/person depending on group size. Private tours cost $75/person.
We opted for a private tour – this gave us the flexibility of customising the tour according to our taste. Moreover this ensured we did not feel rushed at any time.

Top Things to do in Con Dao Island

Snorkeling
Con Dao is considered one of the best examples of marine conservation in the country. With over 340 species of coral teeming with a colorful array of marine life, Con Dao supports a high level of biodiversity including over 1,400 marine species. Snorkelling in the turquoise waters around the island gives you a chance to look at the colorful and exotic marine life. South Vietnam tours Packages

Con Dao Historical & Prison Tour
In 1861, the French colonial government built this prison to house political prisoners. Today, you can learn about that grim past at the Con Dao Museum, which was once the colonial governor’s residence. Exhibits also reveal details about the island’s natural and pre-colonial history.

Discover Sea Turtles
Con Dao is the only place in Vietnam where sea turtles come to nest and enjoy full National Park protection. From May to October every year, Green and Hawksbill turtles come to nest around one of thirteen beaches. During this period, female turtles come up on the beach at high tide during the night. It takes an exhausting two to three hours for the female to dig, lay and cover her nest before returning to the ocean. Paradise Cruise in Halong bay

Hiking in Tropical Rainforest
Venture into the rainforest behind the town and climb 260 metres above sea level to So Ray Plantation, where you might be lucky enough to spot rare species such as the Con Dao Long Tailed Macaque and playful Con Dao Giant Black Squirrel. Adventurous travelers can keep hiking through the less-traveled north side of Con Dao. BASSAC CRUISE

Rest at stunning Ong Dung Bay.
Trekking to the Lighthouse
A 30 minute ride by speedboat brings you to the beautiful island of Bay Canh, where this adventure begins. A two-hour trek through dense forest leads you to one of Con Dao’s most important landmarks. The Bay Canh Lighthouse was built in 1885 and is one of the highest points on the island, at 226 meters above sea level.

Top Things to do in Con Dao Island

Catamaran Sailing
Feel the soft breeze on your face and see the beauty and charm Con Dao has to offer, from the picturesque fishing boats to the point in the horizon where the sky seems to blend with the sea.

Fishing Trip
What better way to spend the early morning than on a boat feeling the sea breeze against your skin against the backdrop of Con Dao Archipelago? A simple fishing boat offers an ideal way to explore these picturesque waters - and perhaps capture some lunch!

Scuba Diving
With depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters for recreational diving, Con Dao offers a unique opportunity to explore the amazing variety of underwater life. Explore the untouched and pristine coral, and you might spot rays, turtles, giant barracuda, cobia, batfish and small bamboo sharks as well as a whole host of tropical reef fish.

Explore Local Life
A guide will take you around the island, through back roads, small dwellings and local agricultural plots that are peppered with livestock, so you can experience how local people live.

Exporing the most beautiful destinations in Phan Thiet

Phan Thiet is capital city of Binh Thuan province, in the southeastern Vietnam. Recently, Phan Thiet has become a very famous tourism destination, attracting millions of foreign travelers. Let’s explore some must-come beautiful places in Phan Thiet. Centre Vietnam travel
Bai Rang beach (Bãi Rạng)

Bai Rang is the most beautiful and cleanest beach in Phan Thiet. Located northeast 15km of city of Phan Thiet, the beach is lined with tall coconut trees, leaning against vast red sand dune, with green jungles on the hill. Visitors can swim, sunbathe and enjoy the fresh seafood right on the beach. Bai Rang also has an ancient fishing village along with a lot of multi-style restaurants nearby and modern Phan Thiet resort. Mekong delta tours
Co Thach beach (Cổ Thạch)

Co Thach is a part of Binh Thạn beach, in Binh Thanh commune, Tuy Phong district, Binh Thuan province. This is one of the most pristine beaches in Vietnam. The beach is famous for seven-colored stones lying on the beach. The characteristics of this stone ground is due to the impact of tide, sea currents, sea water … stones of different sizes and different colors are push from the sea to the shore. Moreover, Co Thach is also attractive because of the rocky bank, formed for hundred years and untouched through time, with so many different kinds of shape and size. Especially, Co Thach beach has Hang pagoda nearby, which is a grotto pagoda from 19th century. Pelican Cruise Halong bay
Hon rom (Hòn Rơm)

Hon Rom is name of a small mountain located in Mui Ne ward, Phan Thiet city. This place looks like an isolated tranquil island, featured by a 17km long beach called Hon Rom Post Beach with blue and peaceful water without sub-rock. Clean and beautiful coastline, clear and blue sea, fine golden sand dunes stretching endless, all creates the charming pristine beach of the region. Visitors can enjoy a lot of entertaining activities such as sand surfing, sea-bathing, fire burning outside camps, or boarding on fishing boats make the resort more charming.
Phu Quy Island

Phu Quy Island is located about 120km from the east of Phan Thiet city and takes 5-6 hours by ship to arrive on the island. Seen from the sea from different directions, the island looks like a floating city with interesting shapes, such as a dragon, a codfish or a giant whale swimming in the deep blue ocean. The island owns beautiful and breathtaking beaches such as Trieu Duong, Doi Dua,… Moreover, Phu Quy also has over 30 historical and cultural relics such as Linh Son Pogaoda, Linh Quang Pagoda; Ba Chua Ngoc Temple; Trieu Duong Communal House and My Khe Park.
Mui Ne Sand Dune (Đồi cát Mũi Né)
Mui Ne sand dune is the most invaluable treasure that Mother Nature gave to Phan Thiet. It has become one of the most attractive tourist sites around the whole world.

The dunes range from pure white to gold and sometimes red when the sun comes down. And they never have fixed shaped, which make tourists never feel bored when they come here. This place is not only the perfect spot for enjoying and taking pictures on beautiful enormous sand dunes but also the place for interesting games such as sand surfing.
Poshanu Cham Tower (Tháp Chàm Poshanu)
The Tower, situated in Phu Hai district of Phan Thiet, is the remnant of Ancient Champa Kingdom. It features the great architecture and decoration of the ancient Cham.

Especially, when visiting the tower, tourists will have chance to experience unique ceremonies and dances of Cham people.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town – one of the most popular tourist attraction in Vietnam not only for domestic tourists but also for foreigners.
Location

Hoi An is located on the bank of Thu Bon River- in the Central of Viet Nam, only 30 kilometers from Da Nang City. With a good location on the bank of a great river, it used to be one of the major trading port during 16th century. Centre Vietnam tours packages

History

Hoi An has been through a long time of history, but it still remains as in the very first days of its being born. It was divided into 2 main historical landmark: the occupying of the Japanese & Chinese, and the Western (Dutch and Spanish) during the 16th and 17th centuries. Mekong river tours Vietnam

CHung Tooc

During the Chinese period, Hoi An was called as “Hai Pho” (Sea Town). Hai Pho was a divided town - this side of Japanese Bridge for Chinese and another side for Japanese. Until French and Spanish period, Hoi An was well-known as Faifo - an international port city. Thanks to these days, Hoi An is a wonderful place for tourists due to itsforeign comprehensively positive and special pastimes and culture.

Weather

Hoi An has typically tropical climate. Normally, it is classified into 2 seasons: dry season and wet season - it is not too hot on dry season and not too cold on wet season so that you can travel more without nervous. Paradise Cruise Halong bay

What to explore

Coming to Hoi An, tourist are attracted by series of old - architectured lanes and houses with nearly 100% cristinely left from their initial buildings with moss grown walls, deeply plain roofs, old furniture in their cristine past arrangement, etc. Hoi An’s architecture was affected by Chinese, French, Japanese Culture.

1. Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town

Since Hoi An is an old Town, its places of interest are of full historically classical meaning and image. Hoi An symbol, the most popular remnant is the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau or Lai Vien Kieu), on the west end of Tran Phu Street. The bridge was constructed in the early 1600's by the Japanese community. Tourists should spend time on visiting Quan Cong Temple, Musium of Culture. Many ancient style - oriented architects come here to have a direct look into the ancient houses of the town, among which are Phung Hung House, just west of the Japanese Bridge, Quan Thang House, or Tan Ky House. The design of the houses show how local architecture incorporated Japanese and Chinese influences. Cantonese Assembly Hall (Quang Dong), has a calm courtyard with ornate statuary. You could take a peek at the half-hidden back yard and its kitschy pastel dragon statues. Hokien (Fujian) Meeting Hall (Phuc Kien) and Chinese All-Community Meeting Hall (Trieu Chau), are also spanning the block. If you are Buddhist, there are a lot of pagodas to visit. Ong Pagoda, Quan Am Phat Tu Minh Huong Pagoda, etc. are premium places to get in.

If you want to explore Hoi An Ancient Town with a professional tour guide who can give you all good information about Hoi An history, local life,,..have a look at Hoi An city tour half day

Special note: If you enter the old town, you have to buy entrance ticket which costs 6$/ 1pax as your contribution is to restore and maintain ancient house. You can keep it and use it for anytime you enter the town.

2. Local belief

The main religion here is Buddhism. Therefore, people often go to the pagoda and pray on 30th and 14th of every lunar month. That time, the old town seems to be so nice with all colorful hanging cloth and paper lanterns.  Furthermore, it’s easy for you to see people preparing altars with candles, cakes, incense and wine in front of their shops, restaurants and houses to pray for all the unlucky ghosts who are wandering on the streets at night with the hope that they won’t disturb their business, their happiness and their normal life. That is also the reason why you can see the local people here they burn incense and cinnamon in the morning- the time they start a new day with the hope that the good smell of incense and cinnamon will bring them good luck all day and help them chase bad spirits.

Special note: When you come to some shops in Hoi An in the morning, you can get good price - morning price. Because sellers want to sell fast - buy fast so they can get good luck for the whole day. However, you should not visit a shop early in the morning without buying anything because you may be their first customer of the day which means that it’s not good if you don’t buy anything. First customer of the day is considered to bring the owner of the shop good luck and good business during the day, so you need to buy something even it’s small. You’d better go shopping after 9 a.m

3. Local food

When you come to Hoi An, you should not miss some specialties here: Cao Lau, Quang Noodle , White Rose, coffee with condensed milk and many local food that are not available on your guide book. You will have wonderful feelings when enjoying them. It is greater when you have a local guide who take you on a motorbike and explore Hoi An food. Not just eating, with a guide by your side, you can get many useful information about local food, have chance to talk to local people and have sight - seeing included on the tour. Come and enjoy with us at Hoi An street food tour by motorbike

Special note: This tour is available in the morning at 8.00 A.M or in the afternoon at 3.00 P.M. You can choose motorbike as the way you discover local food here. If you don’t like to go on a motorbike, you can choose the walking or cycling tour.

4. Cam Thanh coconut village

About 5 kilometers from the old town, Cam Thanh Village is where you can make your trip back to nature. This village is well- known as a very peaceful and relaxed place for tourists with the water coconut forests. One of the most popular activities there is the Cooking Class and Eco Tour. Not just cooking, you can do some work as a real fisherman like fishing, riding basket boat, and chatting with local people here. More information about the tour at Hoi An cooking class and eco tour   3
Special note: You should join the tour on sunny day or light rainy day so that you can enjoy more. It is too wet and not comfortable on rainy day.

5. Duy Hai fishing village

Close to Cam Thanh Village, Duy Hai fishing village which can be reached by boat is really famous for making fish sauce in Hoi An. Going to the fish market and a local house to learn the way people make fish sauce here is really interesting. Please read more at Duy Hai fishing village by tour half day   4
Special note: This tour is just available in the early morning 5.00 A.M. That time, the fish market is very busy because fishermen bring many fresh fish from previous night back home and sell for local people. You’d better join this tour on Dry Season when the weather is good so that you can have a safe and great trip on the boat.

6. Kim Bong Carpentry Vilage

Only 15 minutes by ferry from Hoi An Old Town, you can go to visit Kim Bong Carpentry Village. Here, you are seemed to be back to countryside of Vietnamese people with many rice paddies and buffalos. Coming here, you will have deep knowledge about how people make boats, Quang noodle and sleeping mats. In addition, you can listen to more stories about local people and local life here. Have a look at our tour at Kim Bong carpentry village at Kim Bong village bicycle half day tour   5
7. Tra Que Vegetable Village

Hoi An has been famous for vegetables a long time ago and Tra Que Vegetable Village is a wonderful place where people produce vegetables that you shouldn’t miss. 15 minutes by cycling from the old town, you will arrive this veggies village. Farmers here - they prefer seaweed for fertilizing for veggies, not chemical fertilizer, so veggies is really clean (organic). More interesting, you can have experience like a farmer when you grow and water the veggies here. Visit Tra Que vegetables village bike tour  for more information.     6
8. Thanh Ha Poterry Village

Once more village you should not miss in Hoi An is Thanh Ha Poterry Village which is famous for products that make from pottery. Coming here, you can understand more about character of the local people here: they are truly patient, skillful, careful and definitely talent. Come and learn how to make pottery products like a local. Visit Thanh Ha pottery village for more information.

Street food Hoi An

Cao lầu is a local dish unique to Hoi An. Made of a fat soba type noodle and severed with crispy pork, lettuce, bean sprout and special sauce. I know sounds pretty basic, right? but there’s genius in this dish – it’s delicious and one is never enough. Legend has it thatv the noodles are made using an ancient Cham spring sourced from a “secret” well on the out skirts of town, making it difficult to reproduce anywhere else in Vietnam. Centre Vietnam travel

It’s best devoured from street food stalls where the locals have fine tuned this bowl of joy to perfection. Having sampled a couple hundred, I’m pretty sure I have found the best, just a short walk from Dk’s House (our Hoi An Hostel). Open only after the sun goes down, you’ll find Mr Trung’s Cau Lua stall on Tran Phu opposite the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese. Halong bay travel Vietnam

Tucked away down the Ba Le Well Lane on the edge of Hoi An’s Old Town is Ba Le Well Restaurant. This is a hugely popular spot with both Hoi An locals and tourist alike. This street food stall come restaurant is one of our favorite places to eat at on one of Dk’s regular street food tours. Mekong delta tours Vietnam

Street food Hoi An

It’s a set menu and no sooner have you sat down plates piled with fresh herbs, crispy savory pancakes stuffed with bean sprouts and a river shrimp, pork skewers, shrimp spring rolls, Viet Kimchi, satay-style dip and rice paper all magically appear in front of you.

Think roll-your-own BBQ pork rice paper rolls but don’t let that put you off as the staff here are super helpful and will demonstrate the tricks of the trade. I’ve been on countless meals here when the staff just stand there rolling rolls through the whole meal – talk about service!

Ba Le Well specilises in banh xeo a local country pancake made with egg, rice and bean sprouts. They source all their veggies and herbs from the organic Tra Que Vegetable Village (You can check the organic veg village out on our free daily bicycle tour). Make sure you go hungry as the food just keeps on coming.

I won’t tell you about desert as it’s such a pleasant surprise it’d be a shame to ruin it!

Generally the set menu runs at about 80,000 – 100,000 per person depending on how much you scoff down!

Top 7 Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam

The top 7 souvenirs to buy in Vietnam, whether you are on holidays or on a business trip.

Apart from the joy of discovering a new culture, taking photos and tasting the exotic flavors of Vietnam, shopping might bring you more opportunities to get in touch with local habits.

A shopping tour is usually the last step of a trip and it is always a bit tricky. The second “HCMC 100 exciting things”, a campaign promoting activities in the city, announced some time ago the top 7 souvenirs to gift to friends, family members and loved ones. The results came from a poll voted on by travelers and expats. Travel to Vietnam

Hopefully more of these events will be coming to other major cities, such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue and others.

CONICAL HAT

Ao dai

Non la (leaf hat) is a circular cone made of bamboo cataphylls, notable for it’s romantic adornments. The non la is more than an indispensable tool for people in Vietnam: it has become a cultural symbol. The style differs by region, so for example those of the Tay people have a distinct color, while in Thanh Hoa they use only a 20-hem frame. Hue’s is thin and elegant, while Binh Dinh’s is thick. Mekong delta tours

Vietnamese wear the non la all year. The shape protects the wearer from the downpours of the rainy season like an umbrella, and provides shade and protection from the heat during April and May, when temperatures climb to unbearable levels.

Top 7 Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam

Local Insight: At a workshop, you can get a hat for only VND 3,500 - VND 10,000. Depending on the quality, price at souvenir shops range between VND 30,000 and VND 100,000.

Since the 18th century, the ao dai (long dress) has been Vietnam’s national costume. There are three main styles of ao dai nowadays. Halong bay cruise

“Trendy” ao dai reach to the floor and fit the curves of the body by using darts and a nipped-in waist; the “hippy” ao dai is brightly colored and very popular among young teenagers; and the “mini” ao dai have slits extended above the waist and the panels reach only to the knees.

The usual way to acquire an ao dai would be to pick the fabric first. Usually there are two different colors, one for the long dress itself and a second contrasting color for the trousers worn underneath. After the fabric is chosen, you bring it to a tailor specialized in creating ao dais. Usually it takes around one week until you can pick up the finished product, but please keep in mind that during the preparation for Tet (lunar new year), it can take significantly longer.

Local Insight: An ao dai costs at least VND 700,000. If you can spend the time and have experience finding decent cloth and a good tailor, you might have your stylish ao dai at a reasonable VND 1,500,000.

Silk is woven from the cocoons of the silkworm. Thus, It has always been considered extremely luxurious and only available to the nobility. The days when silk had only been manufactured for Vietnamese royalty is long gone, and the fabric has become widely used throughout the country. Silk and its beautiful products are affordable nowadays, so tourists have a chance to choose their favorites and gift them to friends and family.

Local Insight: The price for regular Vietnamese silk is at least VND 70,000/m and over VND100,000/m for premium kinds. Silk below that price is originating from China and of questionable quality.

The art of hand-embroidered pieces of clothing and framed silk pictures is an old handicraft tradition in Vietnam. You will mostly encounter picturesque natural scenes like flowers, trees, animals and birds, patiently stitched one colorful thread at a time. But also daily life scenes, even portraits can be created with this ancient technique. Tourists are frequently baffled by the vast variety of designs, offered in hand embroidery shops, the vibrant colors and the intriguing depth of the artwork.

In some shops, tourists can explain or sketch their individual idea to the artist, who creates a personalized present for friends and family.

If you visit Da Lat, there is a workshop & gallery for marvelous and artful hand embroidery images upstairs in the central market.

Local Insight: You can buy a small hand embroidered product for around VND 500,000. For bigger pictures, the price can be VND 2,000,000 and above.

Sand painting is the art of pouring colorful sand and powdered pigments on a sticky surface and fixating it later with spray, so it doesn’t come off again. However, there is a second art form called sand painting, which is practiced in Saigon: The artist pours the colorful sand between two glass panes or in a specially designed mug or vase. The layers of sand form an enthralling piece of art, that looks stunning on every shelf and makes an excellent souvenir. Vietnamese sand picture art comprise 4 categories: Landscape, portrait, labor scenes and the traditional art of calligraphy.

Local Insight: The price for artful sand pictures ranges from VND 300,000 to VND 700,000.

GUOC MOC

wooden clogs

Wooden clogs (guoc moc) were a sort of traditional footwear for men and women alike in the past. After the feudal period, they mostly remained in a trio of Non la, Ao dai and Guoc moc to increase the gracefulness of Vietnamese ladies when attending important festivals or any special events in town. Guoc moc are rarely used nowadays, but tourists can catch a glimpse of them at traditional activities like the Cai Luong and Ca Tru performance.

Local Insight: Being considered as quite old fashioned footwear, the real Vietnamese wooden clogs are hard to find. If you can find some around VND 150,000 then go for it.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

A handmade musical instrument can also make a nice keepsake. Bamboo flutes and mini t'rungs are very popular among visitors. Since the flute is just a small bamboo pipe and the t’rung can be easily disassembled for transport, they are convenient to carry home and don’t use up too much space in your already stuffed luggage.

The sweet tone of these instruments will thrill your ears and remind you of the most memorable moments from your trip to Vietnam.

If you are in Saigon, there is a nice old man, playing and selling simple flutes in Le Loi street at the sidewalk. If you are interested in hearing more traditional flute play, there is a student club of young flutists, who meet in the evening hours at 23/9 Park near Ben Thanh Market to play and practice. Nguyễn Thiện Thuật street in D1 is also known as “guitar street”. There are many shops and workshops for instruments, mainly guitars and their relatives - like the ukulele.

Local Insight: Prices for a t’rung range from VND 300,000 to VND 1,000,000. Simple bamboo flutes come at around VND 10,000.

You should expect to bargain for the items you want to take home as souvenirs. One “trick”, that can be applied in Ben Thanh Market is to browse the fixed-price shops outside and negotiate with the inside shops for the items you want to buy. We also have a blog post on bargaining at the market which shows you some tips to bargain and suggest some of the best places for shopping apart of the Top 10 Shopping Places in HCMC.

Vietnam safe country travel statistics must knows

Yes. In General, Vietnam is a friendly and safe country to travel both alone and with your family and friends. By using common sense and awareness you will minimize your chances of encountering any troubles in your travels.

Crime Rate
Like many countries in South East Asia, Vietnam has a high crime rate. But, the majority of crime in Vietnam relates to petty theft such a bag and jewellery snatching, pick pocketing, theft of items such as cell phones, wallets and unattended motorbikes. Caution needs to be taken when visiting heavily populated tourist areas such as Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, Hoi An or any crowded areas where thieves can easily snatch your belongings and run. Many unsuspecting tourists have lost their belongings to the swift actions of a thief and an accomplice on the back of a motorbike. These thefts usually take place whilst the victim is located roadside. PANDAW CRUISE

Comparative Crime Rates By Country:

The table above compares the rate of homicide in 6 different countries around the world. As documented, Vietnam has a relatively low homicide rate of just 1.6 per 100,000 of the population. This is comparable to developed countries such as Australia (1.0)  and France (1.1). According UNODC source the United States Of America Homicide Data recorded (4.7) Homicides per 100,000 in 2012. Alova Gold Cruise

Violent Crime

Vietnam safe country travel statistics must knows

Violent crime against tourists in Vietnam is quite rare and should only be considered as a moderate risk factor whilst traveling through most regions of Vietnam. But like anywhere in the world, we suggest that you should travel with caution. To minimise your probability of encountering troubles, we highly recommend you keep valuables such as jewellery, watches, cell phones, wallets, purse or money out of sight. Splendours of Vietnam and Cambodia (17 days,16 nights)

What To Do If You Are A Victim Of Crime In Vietnam?

Vietnam is now a very popular tourist destination with millions of new visitors every year. Overall you will find traveling in Vietnam safe and non threatening. If you do happen to be a victim of crime or theft, the best thing to do is contact your hotel/hostel manager who can put you in contact with the local Police or hospital if needed. We suggest you remain cautious and vigilant, but don’t let this stop you from enjoying the adventure and beauty Vietnam has to offer.

Top 6 Markets in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City is a “must” destination for shopping enthusiasts! Here at local markets you can buy literally everything – from handicraft souvenirs to fake world luxury brands. How not to get lost in such a variety of goods, what are the largest markets of the city and where to go firstly – read in our guide to markets in Saigon! HCMC & Mekong delta 4 days

Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh is the largest market in Ho Chi Minh City and is one of the symbols of the city: locals visit the market to buy goods for everyday life and personal use, while tourists are usually searching for local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs and local cuisine. This is a place where you can buy EVERYTHING. It is loud, lively and it never sleeps. Ben Thanh Market is open even during the night and welcomes its visitors with a big choice of goods and great atmosphere. AMALOTUS CRUISE
Address: Lê Lợi, Bến Thành, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Open: Daily 6 am – 7 pm. The Night market is open till 12 am.

Top 6 Markets in Saigon

Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay is another central market in Ho Chi Minh City. It is located at the place where years ago “The Old Market” existed. It was destroyed by fire and some time after, “The New Market” was built. It is not so famous among tourists as Benh Thanh market, so the prices here are much lower. But it doesn’t mean that the choice of goods is smaller as well! Here you will still find everything you may potentially want to buy! Pelican Cruise
Address: 57 Tháp Mười, 2, Quận 6, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Open: Daily 6 am – 7 pm.

Dan Sinh Market (Yersin Market)
It is also known as War Surplus Market. The market sells genuine and authentic surplus of Vietnam War. The price for one item starts at $5. Here you can buy war memories from both, Vietnamese and American sides. As experts say, 99% of everything what is sold here are copies and reproductions. However, these items don’t lose their value and still remain important historic relics.
Address: 104 Ð Yersin, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Open: Daily 7 am – 6 pm

Cai Be Floating Market
Outstanding Cai Be market is not only a destination for shopping, but also an important place for those who want to see and understand Vietnamese culture and everyday life. It is located not exactly in Ho Chi Minh City and you will need approximately 1.5 hours to get there. But it definitely worth your time! It is located in the Mekong Delta and people are exchanging goods, fruits, vegetables and many other commodities on their vessels. Many companies organize full-day tours from Ho Chi Minh City. This is a chance and experience you can’t miss in Vietnam!
Address: Vinh Long, Vietnam
Open: Daily 5 am – 11 pm

Russian Market
The market’s name speaks for itself, so obviously, it is focused on visitors from Russia. This is the largest stock of discounted winter gear in Ho Chi Minh City. But actually you can buy here not only winter outfit, it also sells ski clothing, sportswear, casualwear, shoes, accessories, souvenirs, etc. The market is new, it was re-established in 2012.
Address: 328 Vo Van Kiet, District 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Open: Daily 6 am – 7 pm

Flower Market
After a long shopping day in Ho Chi Minh City, visit a Flower Market and make a surprise for your dear one – a bouquet of beautiful flowers, which are exotic, colourful and absolutely adorable here! You can always have a short walk through along the narrow flower-lined alleys, and for sure it will be a pleasure itself! The market is open since early morning and usually the flowers are the freshest in the beginning of the day.
Address: Ho Thi Ky, District 10, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Open: Daily 5 am – 9 pm

Ma Pi Leng Pass Ha Giang Vietnam

Ma Pi Leng Pass belongs to Ha Giang province; it is dangerous road with 20 kilometers length. Over the Ma Pi Leng, there has a mountain with 2.000 meters height located on the 'Happiness' road connecting Ha Giang, Dong Van and Meo Vac town. Ma Pi Leng began building from the 60s of the 20th century by workers who almost are the H'mong.Classic North Package 7 days

The path length is approximately 200 kilometers. Ma Pi Leng Pass is located in the Dong Van Geoparks which is recognized as the global geoparks. The road along the mountainside has romantic, spectacular scenery that is ideal destination for tourists.

Ma Pi Leng Pass is not long but it is the most dangerous pass in the northern border mountain area. It is considered as the “King” of the Vietnam’s pass or Great Wall of Vietnam or the Pyramid of the Meo. At the top of Ma Pi Leng mount is the “happiness” road, there has a stone stele recording the marks in the construction process. SONG XANH CRUISE

Ma Pi Leng Pass Ha Giang Vietnam

November 16th 2009, Ministry of Culture, Sport and tourism of Vietnam has decided to classify Ma Pi Leng area as scenic relic of country. It includes: Ma Pi Leng pass is considered the unique regional heritage about landscape and geomorphology; pass peak area is considered as one of the most beautiful viewpoint to enjoy the panoramic in Vietnam; alley Nho Que River is one of the most unique tectonic valley in Vietnam. There have many writers, poets visiting the grandeur pass such as Xuan Dieu, Nguyen Ngoc… and the impression inspires in their compositions.

• Alova Gold Cruise, Halong Travel

Scenery in Ma Pi Leng pass is unique with majestic and wild beauty. Looking to the north and northeast, thousands of gray mountains concatenate to the horizon. Net to the road is abyss, below is the Nho Que River with cool water

7 Things not to do in Vietnam - a Cultural Guide

Travel broadens the mind but stray outside of the local laws and customs and you’ll find yourself on the receiving end of angry locals, or worse still, getting deported or locked up in jail. Follow these etiquette and cultural hints when exploring Vietnam;

Don’t blog in Vietnam – If you thought blogging about government affairs in Vietnam is cool, you better think again. Unlike most countries where you are free to blog about the government, in Vietnam, you certainly aren’t. Whether what you were blogging about was sensitive or not, it’d be ten times better to just use that keyboard to type about the weather in Vietnam. Talk about anything like corruption in the government or even the Vietnam War and you’ll either be deported, or you’ll be thinking about freedom behind steel bars. Blogging, in Vietnam, should be about your personal experiences. Blogging about the government is a no-go-zone. Vietnam travel

Keep your leisure time healthy – Despite having the freedom to blog about your personal experiences, you should know that anything that depicts pornography is highly illegal. Prostitution also happens to be illegal. If you’re the kind of person that loves going to bars and nightclubs, flirting with a couple of women and then taking them back to your crib, this isn’t the place for you. Even sharing a room with a Vietnamese of the opposite sex is wrong and co-habiting is completely a no-go option. Though this law is nowadays not so strict about this, you can never be too sure when things might get serious. Calypso Cruise

As with all destinations, it’s important to practice common sense and these tips are here to assist. Regular readers of our blog know that we adore Vietnam as a travel destination and have indeed produced many posts on the subject; My Hanoi Travel Experience: My Favourite Destination in the World, What to do in Ho Chi Minh City, 5 Weird and wonderful hotels in Vietnam and many more.

Women’s dress in Vietnam – For women, the laws are even stricter then for a man. You can’t wear revealing clothing anywhere in Vietnam apart from your own bedroom. Foreigners aren’t excluded from this law and there are some who have been called rude names for wearing sexy, revealing or low cut clothing whilst out and about. Reveal less and you might just survive in Vietnam. Showing off your bust and letting the men see how attractive your legs are will do you no good. Instead, you might end up spending the night in a cell, or you might even be on your way back to your home country. DAY TRIP CRUISE

7 Things not to do in Vietnam - a Cultural Guide

Don’t attempt to drive when in Vietnam – Your driver’s license is as good as useless in Vietnam. Having an International Driver’s License makes no difference either. However good you are at driving, you also can’t be issued with a VN driver’s license. Only a Vietnamese can obtain a driver’s license. So, kindly don’t bother driving in Vietnam if you can’t prove that you are Vietnamese. And with the roads choc-a-block 24/7 it’s no great loss to forgo driving for the duration of your holiday.

Update; whilst you can’t use your own drivers licence in Vietnam you can apply for a Vietnamese licence should you wish to, for example if you plan a lengthy stay and is required by law to drive a car or motorcycle in Vietnam. Visitors can apply via the Hanoi Department of Public Works and Transportation and the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Public Works and Transportation, contact details can be found on the FCO Official site.


Stay safe in Vietnam – Also, the police in Vietnam aren’t interested in cases such as your bag was stolen or you got ripped off by a merchant. These cases, in the eyes of the police, aren’t crimes. They are regarded as civil matters of dispute. So, it’d be a good idea to always watch out for conmen, distraction thieves and pickpockets. They can lurk anywhere since stealing your property wouldn’t end up being a police matter. If you do lose something, hire a private investigator or someone of the sort. After that, hope that he/she isn’t a con as well. If he/she is, leave the police out of it. Always check the latest official safety and travel advice prior to travel.

Camera action – Despite criminal deception not being a major issue to the police, your camera might turn out to be a big issue. Restrain from taking pictures of military installations. All you’ll be really looking for is an unexpected arrest in which you’ll be taking pictures of your life in prison.

Drugs in Vietnam – Finally, transportation of illegal drugs is among the most offensive crimes in Vietnam. The maximum penalty for this crime is death. Though you might catch a glimpse of one or two people smoking marijuana in the streets, don’t ever be fooled into doing the same.

Best Food in Can Tho

Located in South West of Vietnam, people here at Can Tho Province are friendly, gentle & generous. Mother Nature has been very kind when providing such prosperity to the land; therefore, many famous recipes are on the list of Best Vietnamese Food.

Southern Vietnam with extension to Cambodia 10 days

Rice Cake with Pork Belly, Mung Bean with Magenta Leaves Recipe (Bánh tét lá cẩm):

In Can Tho, the best Rice Cake with Pork Belly and Mung Bean (Bánh tét) belongs to Huỳnh’s family who live in Bình Thủy. They made their signature with the Magneta leaves by cooking these leaves to take the water from it then stir fry sticky rice with coconut milk, meat & salted duck egg are used for the fillings. Pelican Cruise Halong Bay

Wanna have a delicious cake, you must select the most qualified sticky rice, soak with magneta leaves so that the cake would have a beautiful, natural purple colour. The Magneta leaves need to be fresh, otherwise, the colour would fade. The meat for fillings must be fresh and marinated carefully. Then, add the stir-fried sticky rice with coconut milk inside before wrapping. The cake will be cooked from 4 to 5 hours. When you cut the cake, you will see the silky purple colour of the sticky rice, meat inside, egg yolk from the salted duck egg, fat and mung bean combine together & create a symphony of food. JAHAN CRUISE

Other Rice Cakes with Pork Belly and Mung Bean (Bánh tét) are from Chín Cẩm or Tư Đẹp stores. The tourists are usually go to Xuân Khánh market, An Thới, Mít Nài, etc. to purchase the cakes by themselves.

Cái Răng’s Grilled Pork Roll (Nem nướng Cái Răng)

Back in the old time, there was a woman named Tư Khem who is believed to be the creator of Cái Răng’s Grilled Pork Roll (Nem nướng Cái Răng). Until now, many food lovers are still coming to this land to enjoy it.

Best Food in Can Tho

 The best Cái Răng’s Grilled Pork Roll (Nem nướng Cái Răng) is made from minced fresh pork, sweep it then knead it into round meat balls, next you grill it on a hot coal stove. Each balls are skewed in thin bamboo stick and are best served with Phong Điền’s Rice vermicelli (Bánh hỏi Phong Điền).

 Like other dishes, Southern people like using herbs with rice paper, Cái Răng’s Grilled Pork Roll (Nem nướng Cái Răng) need herbs, green banana, cucumber, pineapple, starfruit, etc.. Holding half of a rice paper on your hand, add some vegetables named above then put a Grilled Pork Roll on, roll it and eat with special sauce. If you don’t like soya sauce or hoisin, you can substitute with fish sauce with lemon, minced garlic and chillies. Here is also the second best Vietnamese food in Can Tho Province which you should not miss when you have a chance to visit here.

Grilled Banana wrapped in Sticky Rice (Chuối nếp nướng)

Banana is wrapped in sticky rice, bring to grill together will create an amazing flavor when eating. tourists will totally fall in love its flavor from the first time of tasting.

Grilled Snails with Pepper Recipe (Ốc nướng tiêu)

The snails is boiled quickly then put on the coal stove to grill. When it is cooked, you can take the snails out, put on plate which has laksa leaves below. You can taste the spicy, sweet, salty and crunchy-ness all in one recipe.

 Vietnamese Cong Cakes (Bánh cóng)

It usually uses with Vietnamese Steamed Rice Pancake Rolls (Banh Cuon). But, with gourmets, they always want to eat only Cong Cakes. It will create a stunning flavor in their mouth. Using with vegetable and dipping fish sauce in rainy days is never better.

Rice Spaghetti with Pork skin (Bánh tằm bì)

This recipe is very famous in the South of Vietnam. Its taste is special: the rice spaghetti is steamed and served with clear fish sauce, coconut milk, vegetables, bean sprouts & pickled vegetable. If you like, a little bit of Stir fried spring onions with fat (Mỡ hành) would be enchanted.

Phong Điền’s Rice vermicelli with roasted pork (Bánh hỏi - heo quay Phong Điền)

Rice vermicelli is used as side dish when eating roasted pork and served with herbs, fish sauce and sweet & sour soya sauce. It depends on the region that the local people may have a touch on the recipe to adjust the taste.

Apple Mangrove Hot Pot in Phù Sa (Lẩu bần Phù Sa)

This dish can be served at any seasons even though its season has not arrived yet because the local restaurants there know how to extract the juice from the Apple Mangrove. If you want to have a delicious hot pot, the fish should be carefully selected also but depends on the season, you can be flexible to substitute the fish with many kinds such as: shark catfish, eel tail catfish, Taiwan tilapia, etc.

Top 5 Things to do in Da Nang Vietnam

Da Nang is comfortably nestled between Hoi An and Hue on Vietnam’s east coast, but unlike the neighbouring towns travellers only stay here for 2 days on average, which is a real shame as there is so much so see and do in Danang! This is the fourth largest city in Vietnam so benefits from fantastic restaurants, shops and tree lined boulevards. There are also beautiful beaches, fascinating culture and archaeological wonders; after all this is the capital of the Champa Kingdom! Danang – Hoi an 3 days

Explore the Museum of Cham Sculpture

Located: 1 D Trung Nuvuon Street
Admission: 30,000 Vietnamese Dong (Less than 2 US dollars)
The Cham Museum showcases the sculptures from the Champa or Cham people who inhabited and ruled Central Vietnam from 192 AD to 1835. The museum was built by the French with heavy Cham influence showcased in the architectural design. Sculptures and adornment were brought in from temples and towers from all over the region. Sculptures rage in age from the 6th to 17th century. These artifacts and works of art and deal with Buddhist and Hindu influenced materials. Gods, sacred animals, and legends were carved as altars, statues and other temple adornments. Almost 300 different works are on display inside and outside of the main building. LA MARGUERITE

Archaeologists have recently unearthed an ancient Cham tower in Phong Le Village in Danang which is thought to be 1,000 years old. The tower has four gates and four towers and measures 16m by 16m. The site is rich in artefacts as many have been unearthed so far, providing further insight into the ancient Champa kingdom.

Tackle the mighty Marble Mountains

Located: South of Danang
Admission: Only one of the mountains is open to be scaled by visitors
The five limestone mountains located southwest of Danang are named after the five elements by an emperor of Vietnam’s past. These mountains once held temples and even pagodas carved deep into the mountains. The French, Viet Cong, and Americans all left their mark on the mountains as lookouts and hiding places. Exploring caves, temples, tunnels and even climbing up the only open mountain offer something different and beautiful to view.

For other things you didn’t know about Vietnam, check out our 10 things you didn’t know about Vietnam. For example did you know that Vietnam is the fastest growing tourist destination? Jasmine Cruise – Halong Bay

Top 5 Things to do in Da Nang Vietnam

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Da Nang

One of the more famous beaches is My Khe, or China Beach. This beach was once an R&R location for American troops during the Vietnam War. Today it is still used for relaxing, and enjoying the sun and sand. Beautiful accommodations are available for visitors today, along with clean beaches and a reduced amount of beggars compared to other beaches.

Clear water, white sand and green forests surround the Non Nuoc beach. In 2005 this beach was hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by Forbes magazine. Visitors enjoy surfing on its gentle waves and its proximity to other destinations such as the Marble Mountains.
Discover Danang Cathedral aka Rooster Church

Located: Tran Phu, City Centre
This candycane pink church was built in 1923 for the French Catholics who inhabited Vietnam at the time. Locals have long called the church Con Ga, or the Rooster Church, because of its copper rooster weathervane. Today Danang Cathedral serves 4,000 parishioners and offers services in different languages. If you wish to attend services, observe the Vietnamese etiquette and come early to avoid having to stand in the back or even in the street with cyclists for services led by the local priest. Papers are printed out to help parishioners follow along with the service.

Marvel at the decorative Buddhist Pagodas

Some of the most striking architecture, culture and history present in Danang is located in its many buildings, especially its pagodas. Pagodas in Vietnam are traditional tiered places of Buddhist worship that hold special sacred articles. Worshippers come to pray and meditate within the confines of the pagoda and its surrounding areas.

Tinh bột nghệ trị nám da, mụn

Da nám, mụn trở lên sáng mịn

Chị Trần Hoàng Hiếu công tác tại một đơn vị truyền thông ở Hà Nội sau khoảng 2 tháng ăn tinh bột nghệ vàng nguyên chất hàng ngày đã có làn da trắng sáng, mịn màng.

Khi đến cơ quan, nhiều đồng nghiệp thấy khá ngạc nhiên vì da chị thay đổi rõ rệt. Trước đây, chị có làn da trắng nhưng bị nám và mụn 2 bên má.

Chị Hiếu chia sẻ: “Vì da xấu quá nên tôi phải tìm cách cải thiện.  Được bạn mách cách dùng tinh bột nghệ làm đẹp da nên tôi mua về dùng. Tôi đã dùng tinh nghệ hơn 1 tháng nay,  ngày uống 2 lần, mỗi lần 3 thìa cà phê. Da không chỉ đẹp mà sức khỏe được cải thiện rất nhiều.

Đây là cách làm đẹp tự nhiên, từ từ nhưng tôi thấy an toàn. Tuy nhiên, điều bất tiện là mỗi lần phải dùng một lượng tinh bột nghệ lớn, mùi vị và cảm giác rất khó chịu, nhưng vì làm đẹp nên cứ phải cố dùng hàng ngày”.

Tinh bột nghệ trị nám da, mụn

Tinh bột nghệ đen nguyên chất.

Còn chị Thúy Hằng (Tam Trinh, Hà Nội) da bị khô, bong tróc. Đi đo mức độ ô xy hóa, các chuyên gia khuyến cáo da chị đang ở ngưỡng xấu nhất.

Đi soi da, da chị bị khô, một số chỗ lỗ chân lông to, cần phải có chế độ chăm sóc, nếu không, da sẽ bị lão hóa nhanh.

Để cải thiện làn da, chị Hằng cũng quyết định làm đẹp da bằng tinh bột nghệ. Trên thị trường thấy quảng cáo khá nhiều nhưng chị không yên tâm lắm vì không rõ nguồn gốc xuất xứ.

Chị nhờ người quen mua hộ về dùng. Chị trộn tinh bột nghệ với sữa chua không đường, để tủ lạnh rồi đắp hàng ngày, thấy da được cải thiện rõ rệt. Dù không còn trẻ như chị Hằng, chị Hiếu, nhưng chị Quyên làm phóng viên tại một tờ báo điện tử tại Hà Nội cũng rất quan tâm đến làn da. Chị đã mua ít tinh nghệ về dùng thử. các bạn có thể thử cách làm đẹp bằng bột sắn dây nguyên chất

Theo chị Quyên, da chị có nhiều nếp nhăn trên khóe mắt, trên gò má và phía dưới mắt xuất hiện vài nốt tàn nhang, vết nám. Theo thời gian, nốt này càng to ra. Chị Quyên muốn làm đẹp bằng tinh bột nghệ.

Hơn nữa, chị nghe nói  tinh bột nghệ giúp ngăn chặn ung thư. Giờ ăn cái gì cũng sợ nên phải ‘chặn’ trước bằng cách uống tinh bột nghệ.

Chị có nhờ người quen mua hộ tinh bột nghệ nhưng cũng là mua trao tay nên không dám chắc về chất lượng. Sản phẩm lại không có đóng gói, không nhãn mác nên chị  chưa thật sự yên tâm.

Phu Quoc travel guide

In waters south of the country, PhuQuoc island – VietNam is the largest pearl island in Vietnam, where is also the largest island in the 22 island populations here, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Phu Quoc is one of the attractions, the most wonderful resort. When you come to Phu Quoc , you can immerse yourself in the blue water, breathe in the fresh sea breeze, stationary soul in streams Pics, enjoy fresh seafood ... Mekong & Phu Quoc island (5 days, 4 nights)
1, Phu Quoc island - VietNam Information
Location of PhuQuoc island- VietNam
PhuQuoc Island and other islands formed under PhuQuoc Island, Kien Giang Province. PhuQuoc Island has a total area of 589.23 km ².
In 2006, Biosphere Reserve and coastal islands in Kien Giang included Phu Quoc Island by UNESCO recognized world biosphere reserve .

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Climate of PhuQuoc island- VietNam
PhuQuoc Island- VietNam has a tropical monsoon climate with two seasons: the dry season from November to April next year , the rainy season from May to October.
Transport of PhuQuoc- The pearl island of VietNam
Today, the road system on the island is growing rapidly , which is next to the passenger route from the mainland to the island by air and maritime is very convenient so visitors can be sure to also like walking on the island without encountering any obstacles .

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To save time you can go by air, where there are 3 direct flights to Phu Quoc airport Noi Bai airport ( Hanoi) , Tan Son Nhat airport ( HCMC ) and airport Tho ( Can Tho ) . You should fly away - fly on the flight to Phu Quoc lunch range is now just to check-in and check -out hotels that do not take much time to wait.

Phu Quoc travel guide

In addition, you can go Phu Quoc travel by land or sea. If you want to comfortable, you should go to Phu Quoc ride about 10p.m, 5a.m it will come Kien Giang.
Transport of PhuQuoc Island

Culture- Social of PhuQuoc- The pearl island of VietNam
PhuQuoc island- VietNam is considered also the place of Cao Dai . Today the island has a Cao Dai Temple in the town of Duong Dong . On the island there is only one Catholic church in the town of An Thoi , which is also home to the former concentration of migrants from the north in 1954. In Phu Quoc Island , on July fifteenth lunar day people usually go the temple in the town of Duong Dong . On this day in religious activities was quite busy.

2, Some of the major tourist attractions in PhuQuoc- pearl island of VietNam are:
Phu Quoc pearl island of VietNam still retain the original wild character whether visitors flocked to a busy day. PhuQuoc travel will be a great celebration of your life during the turn of the landmarks in PhuQuoc you have visited. PhuQuoc travel: Ham Ninh fishing village, Sao beach, beach Khem, Painting streams, springs stone table, garden pepper KhuTuong, Nguyen Trung Truc Temple, nose Ganh Oil, Long beach, the bins the sauce, oyster farms Japan handsome, historic sites Phu Quoc prison ...
PhuQuoc national park
PhuQuoc National Park is a national park in Vietnam, located in Phu Quoc Island , Kien Giang Province . Phu Quoc National Park covers the area of nature conservation areas North Island , Ham Rong Mountain area , and Cua Ganh oil .
PhuQuoc National Park attracts many tourists due to its scenic natural beauty and unspoiled beaches, Phu Quoc is more potential for eco-tourism by the government for a long-term strategy is to develop economy in a sustainable way, minimizing the impact of tourism with the natural environment.

PhuQuoc national parkPhu Quoc national park
PhuQuoc Marine Protected Areas (MPA)
PhuQuoc MPA is one of the marine protected area was established soon. in a network of marine protected areas in Vietnam.

AnThoi islands
AnThoi Islands is an archipelago located in the Gulf of Thailand. Islands under the management of Hon Thom Commune, Phu Quoc District, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam. An Thoi islands where nearly 30m deep sea. Visitors can explore nature, fishing, scuba diving,….

Travel guide to South Central Vietnam

If Ho Chi Minh City’s full-on intensity becomes overwhelming, a few hours away a very different world beckons, with fresh highland air, outstanding natural beauty, two of Vietnam’s premier beach destinations and the best natural habitat for wildlife-spotting. Culture-seekers can enjoy some of the nation’s loveliest Indochina-era architecture, ancient Cham Towers and the world’s second-largest reclining Buddha, while activities range from kite-boarding, diving and canyoning, to sipping cocktails on a sun-lounger. 3 days between Saigon and Phnom Penh
Places to visit in South Central Vietnam

Phan Thiet

Around 200km (124 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet is largely overshadowed by its neighbour, Mui Ne, a beach resort area 22km (14 miles) eastwards. A thriving city that grew out from an adjacent, ancient Cham settlement, Phan Thiet is still essentially a picturesque fishing port. Attractions include world-class seaside golfing and the eighth-century Po Shanu Cham Temple, built during the Champa kingdom. Some 30km (19 miles) south, Ta Kou Nature Reserve houses the world’s second-longest recumbent Buddha (49m/161ft long) and nearby Ke Ga Cape boasts Vietnam’s tallest lighthouse (35m/115ft), built by the French in 1897.

Travel guide to South Central Vietnam

Mui Ne

In just a decade, Mui Ne went from a small fishing community to Vietnam’s fastest-growing beach destination and premier beach resort capital. Mui Ne Beach boasts a microclimate with Vietnam’s lowest rainfall and a lovely 16km (10-mile) beach, lined with diverse accommodation choices. With strong, consistent cross-shore winds, Mui Ne is fast emerging as a kite-boarding and windsurfing hub for Southeast Asia. There are around a dozen kite-boarding schools, plus several annual windsurfing and kite-boarding competitions hosted here. Surrounding attractions include the Red Sand Dunes and the spectacular, Sahara-like White Sand Dunes (30km/19 miles from Mui Ne), the latter yielding small lakes with bird-watching opportunities.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is Vietnam’s favourite party town, but has many hidden charms for those who delve deeper and explore its museums, aquariums and rich ethnic culture. Read more…

Dalat

With a temperate climate and standing 1,500m (4,921ft) above sea level, this former French hill station remains a welcome break from HCMC’s sweltering heat, while scenic waterfalls, lakes and pine-forested hills reminded the colonials of home. Read more… Dalat & Nha Trang Relaxation 6 days
Cat Tien National Park

Cat Tien is one of Vietnam’s greatest national parks: not only protecting one of the largest areas of lowland tropical rainforests remaining in Vietnam, but also the best place to view wildlife. A nationally important site for the conservation of large mammals, water birds and primates, Cat Tien is home to numerous endangered fauna, though sadly its last Javan rhino is believed to have been killed by poachers in 2010. Cat Tien offers night safaris, bird-watching (over 350 species) and hiking. Halong with Starlight Cruise

Cu Chi Tunnels

About 35km (22 miles) west of Ho Chi Minh City, the district of Cu Chi is famous for its extensive underground tunnel network. During the Vietnam War, the Viet Cong dug a complex network of ­under­ground passages, two sections of which have been renovated and opened to visitors. The enterprising Vietnamese, proud of their ­military success at Cu Chi and keen to attract tourists, have enlarged several sections of tunnel to accommodate larger Westerners. The tunnels are still claustrophobic, humid and bat-filled, however, so few visitors will want to stay long underground.