Vietexplorer2024

The Bat Trang Pottery and Van Phuc Silk Weaving villages, now officially part of the World Crafts Network, were celebrated on the evening of February 14 at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi. This recognition shines a light on the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional craft villages. Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, in his speech, emphasized the longstanding reputation of Thang Long – present-day Hanoi – as the “land of hundreds of trades” in Vietnam. He highlighted that for centuries, Hanoi has been the nation’s cultural epicenter, boasting a wealth of historical relics, cultural heritage sites, and, of course, its renowned craft villages.  Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, delivers an impassioned speech at the ceremony. Photo: Tung Nguyen/kinhtedothi.vn Mr. Quyen went on to describe the villages of Bat Trang and Van Phuc as not just symbols of Vietnamese craftsmanship but ...

The renowned luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, has recently recognized Vietnam as one of the 40 most beautiful countries on the planet. A glimpse of Khem Beach in Phu Quoc Island, nestled in the southern province of Kien Giang. This image captures the serene beauty of the beach, with its pristine waters and untouched natural surroundings. Caitlin Morton and Kat Chen, talented staff writers from cntraveler.com , curated a list of the most breathtaking countries, showcasing the ultimate visual feast of the best sights across every continent. For travelers seeking diverse experiences, Vietnam offers a unique blend of cultural and natural wonders. From paying homage to ancient engineering marvels at UNESCO World Heritage Sites to immersing themselves in the crystal-clear waters of its beaches and bays, Vietnam leaves an indelible mark on all who visit. The writers from Condé Nast Traveler were captivated by the wild beauty of Ha Giang, nestled in ...

Le Mat, a village located about seven kilometers from downtown Hanoi, in the present-day Viet Hung Ward of Long Bien District, has gained a reputation for its unique snake farming tradition and mouthwatering snake cuisine. To commemorate this ancient trade, the village hosts an annual festival on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, attracting locals and visitors alike. The village of Le Mat comes alive during its annual festival, with the highlight being the famous Jiaolong or snake dance. This ancient ritual draws visitors from near and far, eager to witness this unique tradition. Photos: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times The festival is a celebration of rich cultural heritage, featuring a range of rituals and folk activities. Among these, the Water Offering Ceremony and the Jiaolong or Snake Killing Dance stand out as particularly unique. The latter, one of the ten ancient dances of the imperial capital of Thang Long, showcases the village’s deep-rooted traditions. Accordi...

(Photo: Quest’s World of Wonder) “It’s true what they say: when you first arrive in Vietnam, you understand a lot in just a few minutes. But to truly grasp the essence of this captivating country, you need to immerse yourself in its vibrant reality.” This sentiment, echoed by Richard Quest, perfectly encapsulates his journey through Ho Chi Minh City, inspired by Graham Greene’s Quiet American. According to Quest, Vietnam exudes an irresistible allure that draws tourists from across the globe. The warmth and hospitality of the locals leave a lasting impression on visitors. “It had been two decades since my last visit to Vietnam, and I felt compelled to return and showcase its allure to the world through my show,” Quest shared. (Photo: Quest’s World of Wonder) In Ho Chi Minh City, Quest embarked on a cultural voyage, delving into the local lifestyle and unique traditions. He navigated the bustling streets, indulged in the delights of banh xeo, and even experienc...

Let’s dive into the captivating world of light performances across various cities in Vietnam, as witnessed and captured by the talented reporters of *The Hanoi Times*. Fireworks illuminate the night sky over a lake in downtown Hanoi, creating a mesmerizing display. Photo: Duy Khanh/*The Hanoi Times* A breathtaking display of fireworks explodes over Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, captivating onlookers. Photo: Duy Khanh/*The Hanoi Times* Cam Tu, a skilled photographer from *The Hanoi Times*, captures the essence of a spectacular fireworks show. The night sky above Ngoc Khanh Lake in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, is painted with vibrant colors during a firework display. Photo: Thanh Thanh/*The Hanoi Times* The vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City is further enhanced by a stunning firework display. Photo: Tieu Thuy/*The Hanoi Times* A large crowd gathers in Hanoi to witness the mesmerizing beauty of a firework displa...

With two consecutive wins under their belt, the team had already guaranteed their advancement before the game. The match against Taiwan, therefore, served as a decisive battle to crown the Group D category champions. The game commenced with Taiwan seizing an early lead in the initial 10 minutes, prompting a swift timeout from Vietnamese head coach Nguyen Dinh Hoang. Displaying resilience and tactical prowess, Vietnam responded magnificently, equalizing just a minute later. The goal was a testament to their teamwork, as Thuy Trang’s precise pass found Bien Thi Hang on the right wing. Hang then demonstrated her vision, delivering a perfect cross to Thanh Ngan, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net. However, Taiwan struck back in the 17th minute, capitalizing on a corner kick. Su Hui Chi’s delivery was deftly flicked on by Lin Dai Chi, creating the opportunity for Liu Chih Ling to slot home from close range. Vietnamese athlete Thuy Trang (in red) showcases her pro...

Sa Pa – A Mountainous Escape For those seeking a mountainous retreat, Sa Pa Town in Lao Cai Province is an excellent choice, and the best part? It’s just a short distance from Hanoi. With affordable sleeper bus or train tickets ranging from VND250,000-400,000 ($9.9-15.8), travelers can easily embark on their journey to this captivating destination. To make the most of your budget, consider booking a combo deal that includes round-trip bus tickets and cozy accommodation at homestays or three-star hotels for as little as VND1.5-2 million ($59.2-79) each. Witness breathtaking views from the Fansipan peak in Lao Cai Province. Photo : SG If you’re craving spectacular vistas and luxurious four-to-five-star services, be prepared to spend around VND900,000-2.8 million ($35.5-110.5) per night for an unforgettable experience. During Tet , a visit to the Fansipan peak is a must. Many consider it lucky to stand at the “Roof of Indochina” on the first day of the new lunar year, takin...