Vietexplorer2024

The upcoming festival, with the theme “Connecting Cuisines,” offers a unique opportunity to showcase and celebrate the culinary diversity of nations, fostering cultural diplomacy. The 2024 International Food Festival promises to be a spectacular event, taking place on December 7-8 at the Diplomatic Corps Area in Hanoi, with over 60 countries and territories participating. As shared by Hoang Thai Ha from the Diplomatic Corps Service Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this annual festival is designed to promote cultural and culinary exchanges, bringing nations together through the universal language of food.  A press conference was held by the Diplomatic Corps Service Department on November 21 to unveil details about the upcoming food festival. Photo: Lai Tan/The Hanoi Times This year’s festival, themed “Gastronomy of Unity,” will be a celebration of culinary cultures, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of each participating country. It also serve...

Dong Thanh Communal House: A Historic Gem in Hanoi’s Old Quarter Tucked away in the charming Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Thanh Communal House stands as an enticing destination for those exploring the capital’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Also known as Hang Vai Communal House, this site holds a special place at 7 Hang Vai Street. Here, one can find the worship of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu (Zhenwudadi) from Taoism, an intriguing blend of spiritual traditions. Dong Thanh Communal House has a fascinating history. Initially, it served as a communal house for two villages, Dong Thanh and Dong Thanh Thi. During the reign of Minh Mang, between 1820 and 1840, these two villages merged to form Dong Thanh village, uniting their heritage.  The intricate carvings on the 200-year-old well reflect a bygone era. Photo: Tinh Le/The Hanoi Times This relic is a treasure trove of valuable artifacts, including a bronze statue of Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu, eight stone ste...