Thursday, October 9, 2025

Experience the magic of T'Nung lake, a true Vietnamese treasure

Package Vietnam Tours - On the journey from Pleiku to Kon Tum, most tourist groups stop at T'Nung Lake. This is a splendid landscape and is even more charming when you arrive early in the morning, when the sun has not yet risen high. In the typical cold of the plateau, the silvery lake surface, the morning sunlight reflecting down makes you feel like you are lost in a peaceful, quiet place.


T'Nung Lake (T'Nung, in the local language means "sea on the mountain"), also known as Ia Nueng Lake, is located in the North of Gia Lai province, about 7 km from the center of Pleiku city, in Bien Ho commune, Pleiku city. People often call it Bien Ho because of its large area - up to 230 hectares, surrounded by pine forests and mountains. In the rainy season, the water surface can spread to more than 400 hectares, making exploring the lake extremely interesting.

The depth of the lake is equally fascinating - in some places up to 30 meters. Legend has it that there is an underground stream flowing into the East Sea. It may take many days to travel across the lake. On November 16, 1988, Bien Ho was ranked as a National Landscape by the Ministry of Culture and Information. However, until now, this place still retains its pristine beauty, not yet exploited for tourism - which makes the lake even more attractive to those who love wild beauty.

The name of the lake originates from the ancient village of T'Nung. Legend has it that, in ancient times, there was a village named T'Nung, where the boys and girls were all beautiful, living in harmony and happiness. One day, the earth and sky changed, a fierce storm arose, and then a fire broke out from the ground, burning down the entire village. When the fire died down, there was only a deep hole left. The survivors of the village stood around the hole and cried, and their tears gradually filled up, turning into today's T'Nung Lake.

The road leading to T'Nung Lake is dotted with two rows of three-leaf pine trees that provide shade all year round. The road is sloping, winding, fragrant with pine resin, cool even when the sun is up. On the cape jutting out into the lake, there is a solid house for visitors. Before stepping into the house, you can stop below, among the lush green grass and trees to take a few photos or quietly watch the lake shimmering in the sunlight. Forest after forest, the clear water reflecting the clouds and sky, giving people an indescribable feeling.

From that tall house, looking far away, you can see the whole lake from many different angles - spacious, open and filled with light.

However, a quick glance only gives you a sense of the surface beauty. The adventurous journeys of discovery will give you a truly different experience. You can get on a dugout canoe (a type of boat made from ancient tree trunks) to follow the lake surface, weaving through the majestic mountains and forests. Along the way, you will see many species of wild birds living naturally: Sin Sitt, Cuckoo, Le Le, wild geese... They fly around the boat without any fear of humans.

In the corners of the lake, lotus and water lilies bloom, adding pink and purple to the space.

Just bring a fishing rod, you can leisurely drop bait into the water. The lake has many types of fish: carp, silver carp, grass carp... and sometimes you will see turtles, soft-shell turtles that live for hundreds of years occasionally rising to the surface of the water, curiously watching people.

Going deeper into the lake, you will encounter villages of the Ba Na, Gia Rai… They live on the resources of T'Nung Lake and are always hospitable. If you want, you can stay overnight, light a campfire, grill freshly caught fish and sip rice wine - to fully experience the soul of the Central Highlands mountains and forests.

Otherwise, just follow the steps leading to the solid house for tourists, you can still take in the vast beauty of T'Nung Lake in the full sunlight. From here, each small boat glides gently on the water surface, flocks of birds fly by, all creating a scene that is both majestic and poetic - making it difficult for anyone who has come here to forget.

Source: https://packagevietnamtours.com/blog/unveiling-the-splendor-of-tnung-lake-in-gia-lai.asp

Cam Thanh listed among world's most beautiful villages

Vietnam day trips - Cam Thanh village in Hoi An Dong ward, Da Nang city has just been honored by Forbes magazine (USA) as one of the 50 most beautiful villages in the world in 2025. This is the only village in Vietnam to make it onto this prestigious list, marking an important step forward in the journey of developing local eco-tourism, community and sustainability.


Nestled along a peaceful river, Cam Thanh impresses visitors with the idyllic beauty of the Bay Mau coconut forest ecosystem spanning nearly 100 hectares. This is one of the prominent destinations with tourist experiences imbued with the identity of the river countryside such as rowing a basket boat through the coconut forest, learning to make handicrafts from coconut leaves and bamboo, experiencing traditional fishing, participating in cultural performances and local cuisine.

Cam Thanh village is located in a special position, where the three rivers Thu Bon, Truong Giang and Lo Canh Giang converge before flowing into the East Sea. This is the buffer zone of the Cu Lao Cham - Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve, possessing a unique brackish water ecosystem, rich in resources and acting as the "green lung" of the entire region.

Almost everyone in the village makes a living from the coconut forest. Those who work in tourism, those who exploit seafood, those who process coconut products… The coconut forest is not only a landscape but also an economic foundation for the whole community.

While participating in the bamboo handicraft making experience with his friends in Cam Thanh village, Nadav Dadush from Israel said that he had spent about a month traveling in Vietnam and had visited famous tourist destinations in Vietnam such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Ninh Binh, Sapa. Hoi An was an option on the trip to the South.

Nadav Dadush searched for information about Hoi An and Cam Thanh village and visited and experienced the activities there. Wandering through the coconut forest and making handicrafts from bamboo was an unforgettable experience during his trip to Vietnam. Nadav Dadush really liked Hoi An because of its natural beauty and people.

Along with being honored on the world tourism map, the green tourism development model and the community in Cam Thanh have recorded many positive results, the green tourism model in Cam Thanh is currently being implemented on the basis of linking "three houses" (businessmen - farmers - scientists). When coming here, tourists not only visit but also directly participate in environmental protection activities such as recycling garbage, planting trees, using organic products...

Currently, tourism activities in Cam Thanh such as experiencing basket boats, learning to cook, staying at homestays... attract more than 1 million domestic and foreign visitors each year. This model creates stable jobs for about 1,500 local workers, with an average income of 7 million VND/month.

Not only outstanding for its natural landscape and ecological values, Cam Thanh coconut forest is also a red address in the history of revolution. During the American war, this place was a safe base for revolutionary forces. In 2007, Bay Mau coconut forest was recognized as a provincial historical and cultural relic.

In 2009, UNESCO recognized Cu Lao Cham - Hoi An as a World Biosphere Reserve, which includes the Cam Thanh mangrove ecosystem in the lower Thu Bon River.

In 2023, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest relic site was honored by UNESCO as a "Typical Asia-Pacific tourist destination" at the Vietnam - India Cultural and Economic Exchange Forum.

In 2024, the basket boat experience at Cam Thanh coconut forest continues to be named in the Top 25 most attractive boat tourism activities in the world.

The fact that Cam Thanh village was honored by Forbes as one of the 50 most beautiful villages in the world is not only the pride of the local people but also affirms the increasingly high position of Da Nang tourism in the international arena. This is an opportunity to continue promoting local values, building the brand of "green - heritage - sustainable destination", contributing to promoting the image of Vietnam closer to international visitors.

Source: https://vietnamexcursions.com/vietnam-travel-news/discover-cam-thanh-the-vietnamese-village-that-captivates-the-world/

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Explore natural beauty of O Lam commune in An Giang

Asiatica Travel - O Lam Commune (Tri Ton District, An Giang province) is considered a destination with great tourism potential as it possesses many natural landscapes, revolutionary historical relics and unique cultural spaces of the Khmer people.


Standing out among the tourist attractions in O Lam commune are Tuc Dup hill associated with the tradition of steadfast struggle, O Ta Soc revolutionary base, poetic O Thum lake, and the system of Khmer Theravada Buddhist pagodas with unique architecture.

In addition, intangible cultural heritages such as pentatonic music, Sadam drum dance, Cha Pay instrument, Di Ke stage and diverse specialties such as O Thum grilled chicken and Ka Tum cake also contribute to creating its own attraction, opening up many types of cultural, ecological, discovery and unique source tourism.

The People's Committee of O Lam Commune informed that the locality is focusing on promoting many tourist attractions and typical products to attract tourists. Thanks to that, in just the first 6 months of 2025, O Lam welcomed more than 30,000 visitors.

However, some unique heritages and festivals have not been properly invested in and preserved, and artisans and teachers have not received the necessary support. In addition, degraded transport infrastructure, especially provincial roads 959 and 955B, is affecting the experience and travel of tourists.

To promote the advantages, the locality recommends that the province soon invest in expanding the traffic routes connecting the relic sites with the center and neighboring localities; renovating and embellishing historical items; and restoring and promoting the traditional Khmer cultural values. The formation of tours linking with Chau Doc, Cam Mountain, Ta Pa Lake, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest or Oc Eo relic site is also considered an important direction to create more attraction for O Lam tourism.

The An Giang Tourism Association assessed Tuc Dup hill as a major highlight for developing O Lam tourism. Some new ideas such as the experience program "A day as a soldier" will both exploit the strengths and create a difference for tourists. In addition, supporting products such as O Thum grilled chicken cuisine or services at O Thum lake need to be invested in the direction of experiencing on-site processing and connecting with nearby tourist attractions.

Vietravel An Giang, pointed out that after the merger, local tourism activities are still fragmented, lacking regional connectivity and not effectively exploiting the tourist market of the Central, Northern regions as well as international tourists. The main reason is that the traffic infrastructure is not guaranteed, causing difficulties in picking up and dropping off tourist groups. He suggested that the province should build a strategy to develop key products for each region, in which That Son needs to take advantage of the transit from Phu Quoc to connect and attract tourists.

According to the Provincial Investment, Trade and Tourism Promotion Center, in recent times, the unit has promoted famtrips, promoted An Giang tourism, and formed regional tours with transit hubs at Can Tho airport and Phu Quoc airport. In the coming time, many famtrips will continue to be organized for the press and tourism businesses outside the province to survey and develop new products. In parallel, there will be promotional activities on social networking platforms with the "Hello An Giang" campaign, introducing destinations at fairs and seminars at home and abroad.

According to the An Giang Department of Tourism, O Lam has a diverse natural landscape from streams, lakes, hills to a unique cave system. Visitors coming here can not only admire the wild scenery but also learn about many anecdotes and heroic war relics in the Southwest border, and participate in exciting games and activities.

In the coming time, the An Giang tourism will coordinate with the locality and the Management Board of Doi Tuc Dup Tourist Area to include destinations in the tourism development plan for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050; clearly identify key products and supporting products; at the same time, continue to train human resources, apply technology in tourism and call for investment. He affirmed that the Department will accompany O Lam and other localities in promotion and advertising, contributing to the sustainable development of An Giang tourism.

Source: https://asiaticatravel.com/travellers-eyes/visit-o-lam-and-discover-the-unique-features.asp

Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong, a hidden gem in central Vietnam

Footprint Travel - Amidst the vast green Truong Son range, where many mysteries are hidden, Chau Cave - Khe Nuoc Trong - Duong Cam Waterfall emerges as a precious gem of the Central region. The land that once belonged to the ancient Quang Binh province, now under the administrative boundary of Quang Tri, still retains its pristine beauty and unique ecological treasures, opening up great opportunities for sustainable tourism development associated with the community.


Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong covers more than 22,000 hectares, is one of the areas richest in biological resources of the Truong Son mountain range. This land was once recognized as the "green roof" of Quang Binh, and after administrative boundary adjustment, has now become a natural treasure of Quang Tri.

The ecosystem here is extremely rich. Up to 1,030 plant species and 357 vertebrate species have been recorded, many of which are endemic and rare in Vietnam. Evergreen forests, limestone forests, grasslands and interwoven stream systems have created a rare pristine space. Ha Tinh langur, red-shanked douc, Asian bear, Truong Son muntjac... are species that represent the diversity of the great forest.

The landscape is also impressive with majestic waterfalls and streams. Duong Cam waterfall resounds like a melody, Toc Tien waterfall is soft, Cong Troi waterfall is majestic, along with Bung, Vang, Dan, Tien streams... have created a series of vivid landscapes. In the rainy season, the water splashes white foam, flows turbulently; in the dry season, the stream is clear and gentle, reflecting the sky and the color of leaves. That space attracts those who want to find pure nature to relax or experience discovery activities.

In addition to its natural value, Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong is also associated with history and culture. The vestiges of the Ho Chi Minh Trail West branch, Ho village, Bai Dan, and the communication system recall a fierce war time. The Bru Van Kieu community in the buffer zone still preserves many customs, festivals, cuisine, and folk performing arts, creating cultural depth for the mountainous landscape.

The People's Committee of Quang Tri province has approved the Project for developing eco-tourism, resorts and entertainment in Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong. The investor is the Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve Management Board, under the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Quang Tri province, the unit assigned to both protect the forest and organize the implementation of tourism projects.

The total investment of the project is 343.5 billion VND, most of which is mobilized from socialized capital. This investment is aimed at building environmentally friendly infrastructure, developing unique tourism products, promoting images, training human resources and maintaining conservation work.

The project identifies 11 component projects, notably 4 priority projects: Environmental Education and Service Center, Khe Nuoc Trong Ecological Experience Area, Cong Troi - Suoi Tien Ecological Area and Rao Chan Ecological Entertainment Site. These are core projects, both attracting tourists and helping to form sustainable tourism products.

Besides, there is Khe Dan Forest Ecological Park, Khe Cau Medicinal Herbs Experience Point and many specialized tourist routes designed according to landscape characteristics.

The tour system and routes have been researched, in which the Khe Nuoc Trong - Toc Tien waterfall - Cong Troi waterfall route is suitable for trekking and bathing in the stream, the Khe Nuoc Trong - Khe Bung - Khe Dan route is for adventurous experiences; the Duong Cam waterfall - Suoi Tien route is suitable for relaxation and enjoying the peaceful space. These routes are closely connected, creating a seamless journey of discovery in the middle of the green forest.

According to calculation, each year when the projects are in stable operation, Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong can bring in at least 10 billion VND in revenue from eco-tourism, accommodation and experience services. In addition, revenue from forest environment rental tax is expected to reach about 200 million VND/year. This is an important resource to both maintain conservation work and reinvest in infrastructure and the community.

The project is expected to generate a stable source of revenue from eco-tourism, including entrance tickets, accommodation services, experiences, and especially revenue from forest environmental services, when put into operation.

A major highlight in the development orientation of Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong is the participation of the community. The Bru Van Kieu people in the buffer zone have not only lived there for a long time but have also become the central factor in the tourism value chain. They will provide homestay services, prepare food, act as tour guides, perform cultural performances, and directly benefit from tourism revenue and "forest money".

When the community is put in the subject position, tourism not only brings income but also contributes to raising awareness of forest protection. Traditional stilt houses become unique accommodations, local dishes become attractive culinary experiences, and folk stories become attractive materials for tourists to learn more about local life.

Developing tourism associated with livelihoods helps the Bru Van Kieu community benefit directly, reduces pressure on forest resource exploitation, and at the same time fosters love and responsibility for the living environment. Each stilt house becomes a unique stopover, each local dish becomes a unique tourism product, and each folk story becomes a source of inspiration for a journey of discovery.

The project also focuses on applying technology and developing smart tourism models. Tourists can learn, book services and connect to experiences easily through digital platforms. The infrastructure is environmentally friendly, in harmony with the landscape and minimizes the impact on the ecosystem.

With large investment capital, a systematic plan and the cooperation of the community, Dong Chau - Khe Nuoc Trong can become a typical ecological destination of the Central region. This is where nature is preserved, the community benefits and tourists can immerse themselves in the complete pristine of the Truong Son mountains.

Source: https://footprintvietnamtravel.com/news/unveiling-natural-beauty-of-dong-chau-khe-nuoc-trong.php

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Escape to werenity with nature getaways near Hanoi

Vietnam Impressive Travel At weekend, leave the hustle and bustle of life behind, immerse yourself in the peaceful nature around Hanoi, enjoy the fresh air and recharge your spirit. In the hustle and bustle of life, temporarily leaving the city to find nature is becoming the choice of many tourists. With just a short trip, you can enjoy peace, recharge your energy and find balance for your spirit. Below are destinations near Hanoi that are highly appreciated for their scenery and relaxing experiences.


Mai Chau valley

About 140 km from Hanoi, Mai Chau valley stands out with its peaceful space, Thai ethnic villages and green rice fields. Visitors can cycle around Lac and Pom Coong villages, enjoy local specialties such as grilled chicken, bamboo rice or can wine.

As the sun sets, the sounds of the Khen (panpipes), the Xoe dance and the campfire create an unforgettable experience. This is an ideal destination to "reset" the spirit and enjoy the peace of the Northwest mountains and forests.

Tam Dao

Only 80 km from Hanoi, Tam Dao is known as the "Da Lat of the North" thanks to its cool climate and winding roads in the mist. Visitors can climb the TV tower, visit the Silver Waterfall, and visit the ancient stone church.

In the evening, Tam Dao night market is bustling with rustic grilled dishes, creating a relaxing and attractive experience. Tam Dao is suitable for 1-2 day trips, both short and enough to recharge your energy.

Moc Chau

190 km from Hanoi, Moc Chau is a plateau with cool weather all year round, ideal for a 2-3 day vacation. Visitors can stroll on the green tea hills, visit Dai Yem waterfall or Ban Ang pine forest.

Depending on the season, Moc Chau brings its own beauty: plum and peach blossoms from January to March; white mustard flowers in November; winter is the time when strawberry gardens are ripe. This plateau attracts many families and groups of young people thanks to its diverse landscape and developed tourism services.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Located about 150 km from Hanoi, Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal destination for those who love nature and trekking. This is the oldest nature reserve in Vietnam with a rich ecosystem, suitable for trekking through the forest, cycling under the canopy or joining a tour to see animals at night.

In particular, the butterfly season from April to May creates a brilliant scene like in a fairy tale. Visitors can stay at communal stilt houses, camping areas or eco-lodges in the garden.

Dong Lam Grassland

Only about 110 km from Hanoi, Dong Lam grassland still retains its pristine beauty, with green valleys, clear lakes, custard apple orchards full of fruit and vast corn fields.

Visitors can cycle through the village roads, row a boat on the lake or simply sit and enjoy the view. In custard apple season (August - September), the sweet taste of the fruit makes this place even more attractive.

Dong Chuong Lake

Nestled in the middle of a vast pine forest, Dong Chuong Lake is a little-known but very peaceful destination. Around the lake there is a road more than 10 km long, suitable for walking or cycling.

Visitors can picnic, go boating or fishing. Because tourism services are limited, Dong Chuong Lake still retains its tranquility, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a truly "healing" place.

Note:

For a convenient trip, visitors should choose a destination within a 200km from Hanoi, prepare light clothes and comfortable sports shoes. For places with limited services, bringing snacks and drinks will help make the trip more complete.

A weekend trip or short vacation to nature not only helps to recharge but is also an opportunity to bond with family and friends and find balance in life.

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/blog/destinations-near-hanoi-appreciated-for-scenery-and-relaxation.html

Ho Chi Minh city by night - A world of endless possibilities

Ethnic TravelConsidered the 'City that never sleeps', nighttime activities in Ho Chi Minh City for tourists in recent times have been very diverse, with many rich activities. In particular, many night tours not only attract tourists but also create highlights, a separate brand. Especially after the merger, night tourism activities in Ho Chi Minh City are expected to increase their attractiveness to domestic and foreign tourists.


According to our research, the night tourism services for tourists in Ho Chi Minh City are currently very diverse and are warmly welcomed by tourists. These include night city tours on double-decker buses; dinner tours to enjoy folk culture on a cruise on the Saigon River; tours to explore the Cu Chi tunnels at night; tours to see night animals at the Zoo or tours to Cho Lon to watch lion dances...

In addition to the above tours, in Ho Chi Minh City at night there are many places for entertainment and culinary enjoyment that are also visited by many tourists, such as Nguyen Hue walking street, Bui Vien street, other night food streets... After the merger of boundaries, the night tourism space in Ho Chi Minh City has also been significantly expanded with some locations such as the walking street along the Saigon River (Thu Dau Mot area) or Vung Tau beach area.

Connecting night tourism between central locations in Ho Chi Minh City and these new locations is expected to create a new look for Ho Chi Minh City tourism in the future. Nguyen Manh Linh in Tay Thanh Ward (Ho Chi Minh City) said that recently his parents and 2 nephews from his hometown (Quang Ngai) came to Ho Chi Minh City to visit, he chose a night tour for his parents and nephews to explore the city.

“My husband and I work from morning to night. At first, I thought we wouldn’t have time to take my parents and grandchildren out. But after doing some research, I found out that there are some night tours in the city, so I booked one. I didn’t expect it to be very interesting. Our family took the river bus to see the city at night, went out on Nguyen Hue Street, went to see the night animals at the Zoo, and then went to eat at Nguyen Thuong Hien night market. After that, I realized that going out at night is very suitable for family reunions. My two grandchildren really like it because they get to see the animals at night, it’s like a different experience,” Linh said.

According to research, night tours in Ho Chi Minh City are currently very diverse and have high characteristics, classification, and unique identity. For example, the night animal watching tour at the Zoo is for young people and families, while the tour to Cu Chi tunnels is for older people and foreigners. Or the tour to explore the Saigon River at night is for customers with higher demands.

In addition, night tours are significantly different from the same locations in the daytime time frame. Experiencing night tours at the same location but are 2 almost completely different services, not simply extending the pick-up time from daytime to evening. Therefore, night tours in Ho Chi Minh City are being enjoyed by many tourists because of their own appeal.

Meanwhile, although it has not yet created a special identity like night tours in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, in the newly merged areas, night tourism is also very bustling. Typically, in the Vung Tau area, entertainment services, food, entertainment... at night are associated with the sea space, which is also a place to attract many tourists. However, to combine these tours together and also create new experiences for tourists is still a difficult problem for the tourism industry because of geographical distance and some other reasons.

According to the Department of Tourism of Ho Chi Minh City, the city is currently implementing the project of Night Tourism Products in the city. Accordingly, night tourism products are being developed in a diverse way, notably specialized programs such as the show "Moon in the War Zone" at the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site, "Night Colors", "Going to Cho Lon to watch lion dance"... According to Hieu, night sightseeing activities are also very exciting with open-top double-decker buses, river buses, and culinary tours on the Saigon River. In addition, the nighttime culinary culture space is increasingly rich with famous streets such as Bui Vien, Vinh Khanh; Food Street in front of Quang Trung Flag Tower, Ho Thi Ky; Food Street, shopping on Hau Giang Street, Binh Tay Market...

In the last months of this year, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism will focus on coordinating with a number of localities to organize diverse walking streets with night activities, attract investment in tourist centers combined with entertainment events, and form specialized culinary areas to serve tourists. In addition, it will also coordinate with the Department of Culture and Sports , businesses, and investors to build night sightseeing products combined with ethnic cultural performances, visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, the Southern Women's Museum, Con Dao Prison Relic Site, Bach Dinh... to promote the development of night tourism.

Source: https://ethnictravelvietnam.com/Travel-News/ho-chi-minh-city-after-dark-a-guide-to-night-tours-and-activities/

Friday, August 22, 2025

Exploring the cultural and spiritual quintessence of Kinh Bac region

Package Vietnam Tours - The Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son - Kiep Bac Heritage and Landscape Complex recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage has opened a new door for Bac Ninh tourism. This is not only a source of pride, but also a driving force for authorities at all levels, functional sectors and businesses to operate new tours, helping tourists experience more deeply the unique cultural and spiritual values of Kinh Bac land.


Where culture and spirituality meet

Recently, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuong from Hanoi had a trip to the Kinh Bac heritage area. The first stop was Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, where she and other members of the group listened to the tour guide introduce the history of the pagoda and the Buddhist scripture woodblocks - a documentary heritage of the "Memory of the World Asia - Pacific" program. The quiet space, ancient pagoda roof and treasures and documents preserved here remind us of the unique spiritual and cultural values ??of the Truc Lam Zen sect founded by Buddhist Emperor Tran Nhan Tong in the 13th century.

Continuing the journey, the group visited Bo Da Pagoda - an ancient temple located on Phuong Hoang Mountain associated with the legend of a woodcutter and the Bodhisattva Quan Am appearing to save sentient beings. After moments of meditation at the Buddha's door, visitors can immerse themselves in the space of Tho Ha ancient village, experience the atmosphere of the rural market by the river, taste crab vermicelli soup, rustic rice cakes and make and dry rice paper themselves. Ms. Thuong said: "The space of the heritage site makes me feel like I'm slowing down. A day is not enough to learn and explore all the unique features of the spiritual culture of the land, so I will come back on future trips."

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda and Bo Da Pagoda are two of the 12 component relics of the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac Heritage and Scenic Landscape Complex located in three provinces: Bac Ninh, Quang Ninh, and Hai Phong. This heritage complex is a sacred space, where the quintessence of Truc Lam Buddhism converges - a progressive, humane ideology, connecting religion and life, accompanying the nation through many historical periods. Immediately after the heritage was upgraded to international status, many businesses operating in the Bac Ninh tourism industry proactively linked to expand the scale, improve the quality of existing products, and design new tours to attract tourists, contributing to spreading the unique cultural values of the heritage.

Tre Viet company - one of the major units that mainly organizes short pilgrimage tours at the beginning of the year, has now boldly launched more than a dozen new products, with itineraries from 1 to 3 days, costing nearly 1 million VND to more than 3 million VND. A typical example is the 3-day, 2-night tour "Discovering Kinh Bac land - Cultural and spiritual quintessence". On the first day, visitors visit Vinh Nghiem pagoda, offer incense to pray for peace, learn about Buddhist scriptures; continue the journey to Tay Yen Tu - Dong Yen Tu, worship Hoa Yen pagoda, Dong pagoda, and immerse themselves in the majestic mountain and forest scenery. On the second day, visitors visit Con Son - Kiep Bac - a place associated with the life and career of world cultural celebrity Nguyen Trai; National hero Tran Hung Dao; Chu Van An temple... Before ending the journey, visitors visit Do temple and ancient temples with unique architecture such as: Phat Tich pagoda with a thousand-year-old Amitabha Buddha statue; Dau Pagoda, But Thap Pagoda and learn about Vietnamese Buddhism, Ly Dynasty; experience the process of making Dong Ho folk paintings.

Another attractive option is the "Heritage and Nature" tour, which takes visitors to offer incense and worship at ancient pagodas: Vinh Nghiem, Bo Da, Phat Tich, But Thap…; and visit spiritual and ecological tourist areas and destinations such as Suoi Mo, Tay Yen Tu, Bau Tien resort. Director of the company said: “We hope that in each tour, visitors will both make a pilgrimage and explore the natural scenery, craft villages, cuisine, and experience the indigenous cultural life to fully feel the soul of the heritage land”.

Dinh Anh tourism company introduces the "Heritage Journey - Kinh Bac Colors" tours connecting heritage with cultural - spiritual spaces, craft villages and cuisine to help visitors better understand the unique values ??of the land and local people. In each journey, visitors can visit relics, admire beautiful natural scenery, learn and experience the cultural colors of Tho Ha ancient village, Chu noodle village, Phu Lang pottery village, Dong Ho paintings...; enjoy Quan Ho folk songs and specialties. Recently, the Bac Ninh Center for Culture and Tourism Promotion has built a number of sample tours "Following the footsteps of the Buddha" connecting Bac Ninh - Quang Ninh - Hai Phong, suggesting businesses to flexibly implement according to the season, creating diverse products rich in identity. At the same time, the Provincial Tourism Association guides and supports member businesses to strengthen links with the government and businesses of Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong city to build and exploit attractive tours associated with exploring world heritage.

Improve the quality of tourism products

With the advantage of being the gateway to Hanoi Capital , convenient connection with Quang Ninh, Hai Phong and neighboring provinces, along with the unique values ??of the World Heritage Complex of Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac, Bac Ninh province identifies this as a "golden opportunity" to affirm the brand of "heritage destination" on the Northern tourism map.

To make the journey to the heritage land a profound and impressive experience for tourists, Bac Ninh province is focusing on implementing many solutions, closely connecting the government, businesses and the community. Businesses and travel agencies are increasing promotion and cooperation to design and operate quality tours.

The project "Restoring the Path of Buddhism Propagation of the Patriarchs of Truc Lam Yen Tu" has been implemented by the province since 2023, connecting dozens of typical relics and landscapes, forming spiritual tourism products of national and international stature. In the coming time, the "Following the Footsteps of the Buddha" tours will be increasingly exploited. This is a continuous tourist route, connecting the spiritual cultural space of Tay Yen Tu (Bac Ninh) - Dong Yen Tu (Quang Ninh) - Con Son, Kiep Bac (Hai Phong) and adding many more attractions and experiences along the route for tourists. Along with preserving and embellishing heritage, in the coming time, the province will strengthen links and cooperation with provinces and cities to develop inter-regional and inter-provincial tourism. According to the Bac Ninh Tourism Association, this cooperation not only expands the number of tourists but also creates opportunities for businesses to improve service quality and extend the length of stay and vacation of tourists. Currently, many businesses have designed 2-3 day tours, combining pilgrimage, exploring landscapes, experiencing craft villages, cuisine, and vacationing instead of just visiting during the day.

The newly launched tours not only better serve the diverse needs of tourists, contribute to promoting and spreading the value of heritage, but also promote community tourism, create livelihoods for craft villages and local service businesses . To make the journey to the heritage area a profound and impressive experience for tourists, Bac Ninh province is focusing on implementing many solutions, closely connecting the government, businesses and the community. Businesses and travel agencies are increasing promotion and cooperation to design and operate quality tours.

Mr Dung from Dinh Anh company said: "Along with designing reasonable and attractive tour schedules, the company focuses on training and fostering a team of tour guides who are knowledgeable about heritage; upgrading means of transportation; cooperating with destinations to add utilities and improve service quality". Some businesses promote the application of digital technology in propaganda and promotion to help tourists easily look up information and book tours online. Businesses hope that the province will continue to attract investment in building modern and synchronous accommodation, entertainment and recreation infrastructure such as: standard hotels, restaurants, homestays, forming shopping - culinary - night entertainment complexes; upgrading roads, expanding parking lots... near relics and scenic spots, helping tourists have complete and impressive journeys.

Source: https://packagevietnamtours.com/vietnam_news/discovering-kinh-bac-land-new-tours-unveiled-after-unesco-recognition.asp

Community tourism takes off in Thoi Son islet

Vietnam Excursions - Thoi Son Islet, also known as Con Lan, is a famous garden eco-tourism destination in Dong Thap province that is increasingly attracting a large number of visitors.


Currently, Thoi Son Islet welcomes approximately 1,000 tourists every day for sightseeing and vacation. Here, visitors can visit fruit gardens, experience boating on the river, ride horse-drawn carriages on country roads, enjoy Mekong delta specialties, and learn about the culture and life of local people. Thoi Son Islet is on the roadmap to implement a community tourism project in the form of a value chain associated with local typical products and the OCOP program.

According to the development plan, each community tourism cluster will exploit the existing advantages of the locality to build tourism products with experiences and the identity of the river region. Specifically, in Thoi Thanh hamlet, 9 households will provide products such as: visiting grapefruit gardens, rowing boats, camping, staying, organizing outdoor parties, enjoying local specialties (snail hotpot with fermented rice, mussel pancakes, Banh Khot...), along with folk experiences such as making toys from coconut leaves, archery, lucky draw, processing honey and folk wine.

In addition, 11 households in Thoi Binh hamlet will develop tourism products with typical Western characteristics such as: visiting and experiencing grapefruit gardens, coconut gardens, producing grapefruit jam, grapefruit tea, sticky rice wine, weaving mats, weaving water hyacinth baskets, listening to traditional music, and resort and accommodation services that are about to open.

The development of tourism clusters in Thoi Son ward is oriented to closely link with the development of OCOP products , creating a sustainable connection between local products and tourism services. At the same time, through the form of organization according to value chain clusters, each household does not only provide a single service but will link and support each other to form a closed tour route, increasing the attraction for domestic and foreign tourists. Currently, Thoi Son islet has 2 national bridges, Rach Mieu 1 and Rach Mieu 2 bridges. This is a favorable condition for the development of the tourism industry.

Director of Long Son Hotel which is investing in a community tourism site in Thoi Binh Hamlet, Thoi Son Islet, said: "Thoi Binh Hamlet is a new chain of community tourism sites with many participating households. There are households doing business in weaving mats, growing mushrooms, visiting grapefruit gardens, fruit gardens, leaf paste, and coconut products. Households here make use of what is available in their gardens, for example, if they have jackfruit, they make ingredients from jackfruit, durian pancakes, grapefruit, they make grapefruit tree cakes, longan bird's nest tea, grapefruit tea, mainly making use of the fruits that the garden has."

Thoi Son Islet is one of the four sacred-animal islands: Dragon, Unicorn ( Dong Thap Province ) and Turtle, Phoenix (Vinh Long Province). Among the four islands known as the "four sacred animals", Lan Islet (Thoi Son) has the largest area. Over the past 300 years, from a pristine Thoi Son village, Thoi Son Islet has continuously developed, achieved many encouraging achievements, and made important contributions to the economic and social development of the locality. With a total area of about 1,200 hectares and a dense system of canals, Thoi Son Islet is blessed by nature with beautiful landscapes and many fruit gardens, making it an ideal destination for tourists.

Source: https://vietnamexcursions.com/vietnam-travel-news/discover-thoi-son-islet-a-hidden-gem-in-dong-thap-province/

Sunday, August 10, 2025

The first double-decker train in Hanoi to depart on August 19

Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR) announced that from August 19, 2025, the unit will launch The Hanoi Train, also known as the "Hanoi 5-gate" train. The train is designed with 10 cars, 2 floors, each car named after a familiar gate of Hanoi. Footprint Travel


This is an activity to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2. Currently, the units are rushing to complete the work in time to put the train into operation on schedule. Currently, Vietnam Railways has not opened ticket sales for this journey.

The Hanoi Train consists of 10 double-decker carriages, appearing for the first time in Vietnam. Of which, 5 passenger carriages are designed with themes related to 5 famous gates in the history of Thang Long - Hanoi: Quan Chuong Gate, Cau Den Gate, Dong Mac Gate, Cau Giay Gate and Cho Dua Gate.

In the initial phase of operation, 7 trains will be put into operation with 3 trips/day, departing from Hanoi station, passing through Long Bien station, Gia Lam station, Yen Vien station, Tu Son station (Bac Ninh) and returning to the starting point. Fixed departure times include: 8:00 am; 2:00 pm and 8:30 pm.

The interior space of the train has a classic and modern feel, with large windows that open wide so that passengers can admire the scenery of the capital from a different perspective. The design of the train cars aims to combine transportation with the needs of resting, experiencing culture and taking photos, suitable for the tastes of locals and tourists.

In the coming time, the train is expected to add restaurant cars and coffee cars, gradually forming a closed tourism ecosystem on the rails.

Different from traditional means of transport , "The Hanoi Train" is positioned as a mobile cultural space, where passengers can participate in musical activities, mini exhibitions, interactive conversations, and experience Hanoi memories through a modern approach.

Integrating cultural elements into public transport activities is not a new model in the world, but is still quite new in Vietnam. The Hanoi Train can be seen as a positive stepping stone, opening up a feasible direction in preserving urban heritage associated with modern social activities.

Previously, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day, VNR also organized a pair of trains named "Reunification Train", as a meaningful journey, contributing to arousing national pride, solidarity and aspiration for national development.

Source: https://footprintvietnamtravel.com/news/experience-unique-hanoi-train-appearing-for-the-first-time.php

Con Dao island and wordless stories

Located off the coast of Vietnam's Southern region, Con Dao archipelago consists of 16 large and small islands, about 185 km from Vung Tau and 230 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. Once known as “hell on earth” during the American war, this place is associated with the resilient struggles of Vietnamese soldiers. Today, Con Dao is a unique destination, combining historical depth and pristine beauty, considered a “resort paradise”, attracting a lot of international tourists. Asiatica Travel


Con Dao possesses beautiful pristine beaches with clear water, fine white sand, rich primeval forests and diverse ecosystems. This place was once in the "top 10 most charming islands on the planet" voted by Lonely Planet travel magazine, top 4 most attractive new destinations in the world ranked by Time Out magazine. Visiting in the summer, I had the opportunity to explore the pristine beauty of Con Dao's sea and sky, learn about sea turtle conservation activities and visit historical sites.

Not noisy, not bustling, Con Dao attracts me by its endless wild beauty. Waking up early, I crossed the coastal road to Mui Tau Be - about 8 km from the center of Con Dao - the ideal place to welcome the sunrise.

In the space surrounded by the ocean, the sun like a red coal slowly rose behind the horizon, each ray of sunlight gilded the sparkling sea. Sitting on the cliff, I was immersed in the peaceful scene, silently watching the boats return to shore after a night of fishing, enjoying the rare fresh air.

On the way back, I stopped to explore the trekking route up to Lo Voi Mountain. From the foot of the mountain on Co Ong Street, it takes about 30 - 45 minutes to walk on the paved road to the top. From here, visitors can see the whole view of Con Dao special zone, the blue Con Son Bay and the islands looming offshore.

After breakfast by the sea, I continued my journey to explore Con Dao National Park. Buying tickets at the gate, passing through the cool forest canopy, I stopped by the Duc Me (Mother of God) cave, the heritage Nhoi tree, and then followed the path leading down to Bang beach. Hidden behind the forest, Bang beach appeared with deep blue sea water, clear bottom, clouds and sky reflecting to create sparkling green silk strips. I freely swam among schools of small fish, enjoying the feeling of owning a private beach. Not far away is Dat Tham beach - a beach that was once rated by Independent Magazine (UK) as one of the 10 pristine and environmentally friendly beaches in Southeast Asia. If you are lucky, you will have the opportunity to see some typical creatures here such as white gargoyles, Con Dao black squirrels, long-tailed monkeys...

If you are a photography enthusiast, do not miss the experience of checking in with an airplane at Dam Trau beach - about 15 km from the center of the island. To "hunt" for unique photos, visitors should follow the flight schedule on the application to capture the moment the plane lands close to the sea. This beach is also the most beautiful sunset viewing spot in Con Dao, where the yellow sky gradually melts into the calm ocean.

Arriving in Con Dao in the summer, I decided to spend a whole day and night exploring Hon Bay Canh, learning about the reproduction and conservation of sea turtles. Every year, from April to November, hundreds of mother turtles return to Con Dao National Park to breed, mainly at Hon Bay Canh, Hon Cau and Hon Tai islands.

At night, there was only the sound of waves lapping the shore and the rustling sound of mother turtles crawling up the beach. They dug nests with their hind fins and laid hundreds of opaque white eggs, the size of ping pong balls. Turtles are very sensitive to noise and light, so my group and I had to keep absolutely quiet and observe from a distance as instructed by the rangers.

While the turtles are breeding, rangers take the opportunity to measure their size, attach tags, and record information. After laying eggs, the turtles cover their nests and create a fake hole for camouflage. Turtle conservation is strictly enforced because only 1 in 1,000 baby turtles survive to adulthood.

The sky of Con Dao at night is crystal clear. There is no light pollution, so I can admire the mysterious galaxy with thousands of stars. I lie on the sand, feeling life moving right next to me, quietly but very strongly.

The next morning, I went with the rangers to the beach to release baby turtles back into the ocean. The one-day-old turtles toddled toward the waves, carrying with them the mission of survival. About 20 years later, if they survived, they would return to this very spot to continue their birth cycle, as a silent promise to the ocean.

Before returning to the big island, my group spent time diving, admiring the colorful coral reefs, swimming with the rock herds in the clear water of Hon Bay Canh island.

Back to painful history

Amidst the poetic beauty of Con Dao’s sea and sky, few people would have guessed that this place was once a “hell on earth” for nearly a century. Spending a day visiting the red addresses, I felt like I was going back in time to the war, touching the tragic historical memories of the nation.

Built by the French in 1862, Con Dao prison once held tens of thousands of political prisoners. The prison system spanned famous sections such as Phu Hai, Phu Tuong, Phu Binh, French-style tiger cages and American-style tiger cages. Each place bore the mark of brutal torture, failed escapes and the indomitable will of the Vietnamese soldiers.

Visiting Phu Hai prison - the oldest prison - I looked at the intact vestiges with prison cells, iron chains, dark cells, rice mills... Under the island sunlight, each rusty door, each mossy wall, each small window seemed to tell the story of the harsh prison years. Going deeper into the French tiger cage area - a special detention system consisting of cells with solid iron bars above, including an area without a roof - made me shiver, feeling sorry for what the previous people had gone through.

Historical relics remind me of the value of peace. Visiting Hang Duong Cemetery, I burned incense before the grave of Vo Thi Sau, my heart was silent among the forest of tombstones lined up in straight rows. Each name, each age printed on the stone is a part of history.

The night in Con Dao was strangely quiet. In the dim light of hundreds of candles and half-burning incense, I felt small among the layers of spirits. The trip was not only a journey to discover a beautiful, wild island, but also a touching encounter with history, from which I walked more slowly, became more grateful and loved my country more.

Source: https://asiaticatravel.com/travellers-eyes/a-memorable-trip-to-con-dao-island.asp

Friday, August 8, 2025

Visit Hung Yen and admire the beautiful ancient stone bridge in Nom village

Coming to Nom village, visitors can immerse themselves in a complex of ancient relics including the village gate, well, communal house yard, Nom pagoda, Nom market, ancient houses and most uniquely, an extremely special heritage - "Nom Bridge", from which to find a peaceful, rustic space imbued with the ancient Northern countryside. Vietnam Impressive Travel


The stone bridge of Nom village is like a symbol of the people of Nom village, almost all the folk songs and proverbs about the old Nom village are symbolized by this bridge. Not only does it have unique historical, cultural and architectural values, this over 200-year-old stone bridge is considered by researchers to be a unique intact structure never seen in any ancient village of the Red River Delta.

Following National Highway 5 from Hanoi to Hai Phong about 30 kilometers is Nom village, located in Dai Dong commune, Van Lam district, Hung Yen province. A prosperous ancient village with a unique complex of historical and cultural relics that still retains the ancient features of a Vietnamese village.

Located more than fifty kilometers from the once famous Pho Hien (Hung Yen city), passing through new roads interspersed with red dusty dirt roads, you can enjoy the intimate space of the ancient village that has been peacefully lying here for hundreds of years. Coming to Nom village, visitors can immerse themselves in a complex of ancient relics including the village gate, well, communal house yard, Nom pagoda, Nom market, ancient houses and most uniquely, an extremely special heritage - "Nom Bridge", from which to find a peaceful, rustic space imbued with the character of an ancient Northern countryside village.

Nom Bridge is a stone bridge across the Nguyet Duc River, a unique highlight that brings special attraction to the pure Vietnamese cultural space of the village. Not only does it have unique historical, cultural and architectural values, the nearly 200-year-old ancient stone bridge of Nom village has been evaluated by heritage researchers as a unique intact structure never seen in any ancient village of the Red River Delta.

In the 16th century, this bridge was made of ironwood. To ensure the safety and convenience of people traveling, during the reign of Tu Duc (1848-1883), the bridge was completely replaced with stone. The bridge surface is nearly 2m wide, made of monolithic green stone, perfectly fitted together. The large stone slabs were meticulously carved by artisans. Many researchers of the village are amazed at the beauty and durability of this bridge.

The bridge is only over 1 meter wide but is still a place where villagers travel every day. The bridge was built with 9 spans, according to the ancients' concept, the number 9 symbolizes luck and fulfillment. The foot of the bridge is made of cylindrical, uneven stone pillars roughly carved to support the bridge beams. The bridge beams are rectangular. Although time has made the bridge covered with moss and vines, the delicate ancient patterns of the bridge are still easy to observe. Each bridge beam is supported by three stone pillars. The stone outcrops of the bridge beams are carved with quite sophisticated cloud patterns. This is a type of motif often used to decorate ancient architecture, symbolizing good luck and blessings. The bridge abutments were reinforced in 1942 with concrete.

The special feature in the construction of the Nom village stone bridge is that the bridge deck, bridge girders and bridge legs only rest on each other without any connecting materials such as mortar or screws like modern bridges. However, after two centuries of existence, the bridge is still stable. That shows that the design, material processing and bridge construction skills of the ancient workers are very admirable. Today, hundreds of people and vehicles still cross the bridge every day. 

Crossing the 9-span bridge on the 200-year-old blue stone slabs over the Nguyet Duc River, the road leads to Nom Market. Today's Nom Market no longer has the image of the blacksmith under the banyan tree, the old lady chewing betel next to the hand-woven baskets and trays. However, the yin-yang tiled roofs, the market stalls under the slanted red brick walls still make us feel like we are going back in time to decades ago.

The stone bridge not only connects the two banks to help people, it is not only a traffic construction but also a unique highlight that brings special attraction to the pure Vietnamese cultural space of Nom village. Crossing the stone bridge, stepping into the ancient village to see all the lifestyle, living habits, culture, and national soul of a simple countryside in the Northern Delta...

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/blog/ancient-stone-bridge-of-nom-village.html

Suoi Mo in Bac Giang - a magical beauty of the Northeast region

Suoi Mo Ecotourism Area is located in Nghia Phuong Commune, Luc Nam District (Bac Giang), 30 km northeast of Bac Giang City with a total area of over 1,000 hectares. This is a tourist area located deep in the rugged mountains in the West of Yen Tu, endowed by nature with majestic scenery with beautiful waterfalls and rich primeval forests, creating a rare ecotourism complex. Ethnic Travel


Suoi Mo Ecotourism Area is located on the spiritual route from Bac Giang City to Thanh Son Town (Son Dong), connecting with many attractive tourist areas and destinations such as: Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Yen Dung); Tay Yen Tu spiritual - ecological tourist area, Khe Ro (Son Dong), at the same time adjacent to the two provinces of Quang Ninh and Hai Duong, becoming a destination connecting with tourist attractions in the relic - scenic area in the East and West of Yen Tu, along with the relic Con Son - Kiep Bac and other attractions of 3 provinces.

Suoi Mo eco-tourism area has historical, cultural and religious values, including a system of 3 main temples: Ha - Trung - Thuong worshiping the Holy Mother of the Thuong Ngan, Princess Que Mi Nuong, daughter of the 9th King Hung Vuong - who had the merit of opening the Mo abyss, leading water to the fields, teaching people how to grow crops and raise livestock.

Suoi Mo Temple with its ancient features and historical and cultural values preserved here was recognized as a National Historical Relic in 1988. Suoi Mo Temple Festival takes place every year on March 30 and April 1 and 2 of the Lunar calendar to pray for good crops and is also an opportunity for people to express their gratitude to Princess Que My Nuong, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the country to pray for blessings and fortune...

The festival with strong national identity was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2015. In addition, Suoi Mo Eco-tourism Area also has other nearby relics such as: Tran Temple, Cau Be Lech Temple, Co Be Cay Xanh Temple, Quan Temple...; historical relics of a heroic time of the nation such as: Quan Ngua field, Ba Dinh Bay Nen area of Tran Dynasty...; relics bearing the mark of Truc Lam Yen Tu Buddhism such as: Ho Bac Pagoda, Hon Trung Pagoda... creating the Suoi Mo cultural and spiritual tourism complex.

One of the things that any tourist who has ever been to Suoi Mo cannot forget is the ecological beauty of the mountains, forests, streams, and waterfalls here. Stretching over an area of thousands of hectares, the primeval forest system of Suoi Mo is extremely rich and diverse, which is a condition for sustainable development of eco-tourism - resorts. Suoi Mo has two main waterfall systems: Suoi Mo waterfall and Thum Thum waterfall, with majestic and poetic beauty.

Each waterfall system has many majestic waterfalls, each with its own beauty and especially at the foot of these waterfalls there are extremely interesting natural bathtubs. Coming to Suoi Mo on hot summer afternoons, visitors will be able to soak in the cool water and let the water from above pour down to caress their bodies like a physical therapy to help dispel the stress and fatigue after hard working days or choose for themselves a private space on chairs, stone beds to rest and feel the beauty of Suoi Mo mountains and forests.

In Suoi Mo Eco-tourism Area, there is also Suoi Mo reservoir with a total water surface area of over 30 hectares, around the lake are flat green lawns suitable for types of tourism such as: Camping, fishing, boating... Along with that, with the primeval forest system, Suoi Mo stone plateau is an attractive destination for young people who are passionate about backpacking, mountain climbing to explore the beauty of nature here. Suoi Mo is identified as an important highlight in the tourism development of Bac Giang province, always focused on investment and construction.

In recent times, the infrastructure of Suoi Mo Eco-tourism Area has been gradually completed such as: Suoi Mo lake project, Suoi Mo landscape protection forest, tourism area infrastructure investment project; upgrading and repairing Ha temple, Van theater and campus; Tran Temple suspension bridge; tourist route project around Suoi Mo lake; restoration and embellishment of Trung Temple...

Source: https://ethnictravelvietnam.com/Travel-News/suoi-mo-ecotourism-area-an-attractive-destination-in-bac-giang/

Friday, July 18, 2025

Visit Thuy Xuan incense village - attractive destination in Hue

Coming to Hue City, visitors not only have the opportunity to visit the cultural and historical heritages, the land of the ancient capital; admire the ancient beauty of the relics and tombs but also visit traditional craft villages. Among them, Thuy Xuan incense village with a history of about 700 years is one of the interesting places. Local people are gradually turning Thuy Xuan incense village into an attractive destination, contributing to preserving the national cultural identity and developing traditional craft villages associated with tourism. Package Vietnam Tours


Thuy Xuan incense village is located in Thuy Xuan ward, about 6km from the center of Hue city, near Tu Duc tomb, Vong Canh hill, so it is very convenient for tourists to visit. Visiting the ancient incense village, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the meticulous and unique process of making incense by hand, and will also be able to roll the incense sticks themselves.

As one of the pioneers who combined incense making and tourism, Ms. Ton Nu Mong Hoa (owner of O Hoa shop) said: “Previously, there was a group of foreign tourists who came to visit and enjoyed the scene of many colorful incense sticks displayed along the entire route; then they took pictures, constantly changed clothes and posed... From there, I came up with the idea that in addition to making incense, creating a space for tourists to take pictures is also a way to increase income. After that, I put the colorful incense sticks in front of the booth to make it eye-catching. 

Anyone who visited Tu Duc tomb and Vong Canh hill and saw the beauty stopped by the booth to take pictures, many people in the village saw that and followed suit, so now it has created a unique tourism product, a famous "check-in" spot, especially for young tourists and those who work in digital content. When stopping to take pictures, people also stop by the store to display products, we sell typical Hue products such as conical hats, agarwood, paper fans, handicrafts handicrafts... Sales also increased thanks to that".

Ms. Ngoc from Hanoi city said: “Before traveling to Hue, I talked with friends, searched for information online and found out that Thuy Xuan incense village is an interesting destination. The people selling here have a gentle, friendly Hue accent, ready to tell stories about their profession and life. I got to personally roll incense, dip in color and dry the incense. Thanks to that, I better understand the value of manual labor and the meticulousness of the craftsmen. This craft village not only produces incense, they are also preserving a part of Hue's cultural identity.”

Source: https://packagevietnamtours.com/vietnam_news/preserving-traditional-craft-village-of-thuy-xuan.asp

Explore the peaceful island of Bich Dam in Nha Trang Bay

Bich Dam Island Nha Trang is famous for its wild and simple beauty. The genuineness of the residents will leave you with unforgettable impressions when you set foot on this island. Here you will no longer hear the noise of the fishing village town of Bich Dam. It is a destination not to be missed when traveling to Nha Trang. Vietnam Excursions


Being the farthest island of Nha Trang, belonging to Hon Tre island cluster, in the unexploited tourism area, Bich Dam is famous for its year-round emerald green lake. And this is also the reason why the name Bich Dam is passed down by word of mouth among the local people on the island.

In contrast to the bustling modern Vinpearl Land tourist area, Bich Dam is completely different, it is strangely peaceful, tourism services have not been exploited much. This is expected to be a Nha Trang tourist destination that promises to attract many tourists.

Up to now, there are a total of more than 175 households with about more than 1000 people. The main occupation is mainly fishing and aquaculture.

How to get to Bich Dam Island Nha Trang?

To explore the island, you can travel to Nha Trang city, then you take a taxi to Cau Da port, there is the only boat to Bich Dam island from about 11:30 am and back at 6:00 am the next morning. Travel time is about 2 hours to reach the island. In addition, on the island, you can trek about 5km to reach Hon Lon lighthouse. One of the 5 ancient lighthouses with an age of 120 years.

New wonderful experiences in a quiet fishing village with beautiful natural scenery. Truly a suitable choice for those who love to travel.

Whenever visitors come to the island, the simple and friendly residents, gentle nature, talk and laugh with tourists. Invite them to go fishing by traditional fishing net method of Khanh Hoa province. This is one of the great discoveries for you, especially those who live in urban areas. You will be immersed in the daily work of fishermen such as spreading weights on the bottom, building rafts to keep the net stable. When discovering fish or shrimp caught in the net, just a simple action of throwing the net down and pulling it down will bring the school of fish within reach.

Wandering on the cliffs listening to the sound of waves hitting the shore, the clear blue water appears before your eyes. Far away are a few boats, baskets, and sampans anchored to rest after a long day at sea. Creating a peaceful picture, if you want to explore the ocean. Then do not hesitate to immerse yourself in the cool sea water.

Useful tips about visiting Bich Dam village

To fully enjoy the beauty of the island, you can talk with the locals to ask to stay overnight. Or bring a tent to camp on the island (this form is mainly for young people). Regarding cuisine on Bich Dam island, you will enjoy dishes made from fresh seafood. Especially in the morning, you should wake up early to catch the sunrise and conveniently buy a few kilos of shrimp, fish, and crab as gifts for your families. Then you can buy some seafood and ask the locals to cook it for you.

Notes when traveling to Bich Dam island

- When you go to the island, you need to keep the island clean, do not litter or urinate indiscriminately.

- The islanders mainly live on the sea so life is still difficult. You can contribute what you can, clothes or necessary necessities.

- If you intend to stay, you should prepare all necessary items such as toothpaste, towels, mosquito repellent, flashlights, and other medical items such as medicine and bandages when staying in the tent.

- Bring extra power chargers , phones, and cameras to check in with beautiful photos.

Bich Dam island is the perfect destination for those who love peace and want to find a space to relax, forget the hustle and bustle of life. Hopefully the information in the article will help you gain more experience to fully explore the beauty of this island.

Source: https://vietnamexcursions.com/vietnam-travel-news/bich-dam-island-village-in-the-middle-of-nha-trang-bay/

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Detailed guide to taking Saigon - Con Dao speed boat 2025

Are you looking for a way to take a speedboat to Con Dao to experience the journey of discovering this pristine island? The article below will provide detailed instructions, from popular boat routes, schedules, ticket prices to how to book tickets and notes when traveling. Footprint Vietnam Travel


1. The most popular high-speed ferry routes to Con Dao

Below are the popular high-speed ferry routes to Con Dao that are currently chosen by many tourists:

- Route Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Port - District 4 or Hiep Phuoc Port - Nha Be) - Con Dao

Previously, to get to Con Dao from Saigon, you had to go from Vung Tau or Soc Trang. However, the journey is now more convenient with high-speed ferry routes departing directly from Ho Chi Minh City:

Phu Quy Express: Departing from Nha Rong Wharf (District 4), the new train route will be in operation from the end of March 2025. The train has both seats and beds, travel time is about 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours, providing a more comfortable experience for tourists.

Thang Long Express: Used to operate from Hiep Phuoc Port (Nha Be), with the advantage of large capacity, more than 1,000 passengers. This route is suitable for large groups or collective travel needs.

With a speed of more than 30 nautical miles/hour, the travel time is only about 5 hours . The ship also has private beds in each cabin and air conditioning, providing a comfortable experience for passengers.

- Route Vung Tau (Cau Da Port) - Con Dao

The journey from Vung Tau to Con Dao now takes only about 3-4 hours by Con Dao Express or Thang Long speedboat, significantly shortening the previous 13 hours. The boat has a large capacity, modern amenities, ensuring comfort for passengers. Every day, the boat departs from Cau Da port (No. 9 Ha Long, Vung Tau City) and returns from Ben Dam port, Con Dao.

- Route Soc Trang (Tran De Port) - Con Dao

If you choose to travel by speedboat from Soc Trang to Con Dao, the departure point will be Tran De port. Here, there are currently two popular shipping companies serving this route: Phu Quoc Express of Con Dao Express and Superdong Con Dao.

- Route Can Tho (Ninh Kieu Wharf) - Con Dao

The Can Tho route is a convenient option for visitors from the Mekong Delta region. Currently, there are shipping companies operating such as Con Dao Express and Mai Linh Express, with a travel time of about 4 hours.

2. Summary table of schedule and ticket prices for high-speed ferry to Con Dao 2025

Note: Ticket prices may vary depending on weekdays, weekends and the type of ticket class you choose.

3. Guide on how to book train tickets to Con Dao

Currently, tourists can book train tickets to Con Dao in two popular ways: buy directly at the port or book tickets online through the official website of the shipping lines.

Buy directly at the port: If you choose this method, you should arrange to arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour before the ship departs to buy tickets and ensure there are seats available. During peak season, it is best to buy tickets a few days in advance to avoid sold out.

Buy tickets online: Visit the website of the shipping company you choose, then fill in your personal information, choose the departure date and time, the number of tickets and make payment. Once completed, you will receive an electronic ticket code via email or text message. When the departure date comes, just bring the ticket code to check in.

Booking tickets online not only saves time but also helps you be more proactive in planning your trip to Con Dao.

4. Important notes to know when taking the boat to Con Dao

To make your trip to Con Dao by boat smooth and comfortable, you should note the following important things:

• Book early and choose a round-trip ticket: You should buy tickets about 1 week in advance, especially during holidays, Tet or peak tourist season. Buying a round-trip ticket helps you be more proactive about time and avoid the situation of "sold out" return tickets.

• Ticket prices may change: Train ticket prices may fluctuate depending on weather conditions or holidays, so you should follow information from the shipping company to plan accordingly.

• Book a transfer service in advance: After booking your room and train tickets, you should contact your accommodation to book a pick-up service at the pier. This will make traveling to your accommodation easier and save time.

• Prepare anti-seasickness medication: If you are prone to seasickness or have a weak constitution, prepare anti-seasickness medication and take it before the ship departs.

Pay attention to the above experiences of traveling to Con Dao to help you have an interesting experience, both relaxing and convenient for exploring this beautiful island.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to Con Dao by speedboat or plane?

Going to Con Dao by plane is suitable for those who prioritize time, like convenience and are not too concerned about costs . It only takes about 1 hour to fly from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho, you will be on the island.

Meanwhile, speedboats are a reasonable choice if you want to save money, enjoy the feeling of traveling on the sea and do not worry about seasickness . In addition, traveling by boat is also an interesting experience for those who love exploring travel.

How long does it take to go to Con Dao by boat?

The boat trip to Con Dao ranges from 90 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the company and route. Fast boats like Greenlines take only about 90 minutes , while the CQ-03 boat from Vung Tau takes about 3 hours.

Is the high-speed ferry route from Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao operational yet?

The high-speed ferry route from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Port, District 4) to Con Dao has officially been in operation since March 28, 2025. The ferry has a capacity of 374 seats , with a maximum of one trip per day, operated by Thanh Thanh Phat Company.

Hopefully the above information will help you better understand how to take a speedboat to Con Dao and easily plan your upcoming trip. Wishing you a safe, smooth journey and many memorable experiences in this beautiful island!

Source: https://footprintvietnamtravel.com/blog/how-to-take-a-speedboat-to-con-dao-island.php

Experience of traveling to Phu Quy island by speedboat

You are planning to explore Phu Quy Island - the wild but enchanting island of Binh Thuan, then knowing the experience of taking the Phu Quy high-speed boat is really necessary. This is the only means of transport that takes you from the mainland to the island, with many different shipping companies and schedules. From how to book tickets, choose a boat to tips to limit seasickness, all will be revealed in this article! Asiatica Travel


How long does it take to go by boat to Phu Quy Island?

Currently, the only means for tourists to set foot on Phu Quy Island is by boat from  Phan Thiet city . With a distance of more than 110km, the time to go to Phu Quy ranges from 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours depending on the type of boat. Normally, around 6:30 to 7:30 every day, the boat will depart from Phan Thiet port to the island. However, depending on the day, there will be an earlier trip at 5:30 or the latest trip at 15:00.

Where is Phu Quy express ferry terminal?

The Phan Thiet - Phu Quy express ferry terminal is located at the end of Pham Van Dong Street, Ward 5, Hung Long Ward, Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province. This place is also known as Phan Thiet Port or Phan Thiet Transport Port. Thanks to its location near the city center, visitors can easily travel to the ferry terminal to Phu Quy.

At Phan Thiet port, you can easily buy ferry tickets to Phu Quy online from high-speed ferry companies such as: Chan Kha high-speed ferry, Superdong ferry, Trung Trac Phu Quy ferry, Phu Quy Express ferry... In particular, there is also a spacious parking lot and overnight parking service so that visitors can rest assured to leave their vehicles and travel to Phu Quy island.

Transfers from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet

After the Dau Giay - Phan Thiet expressway came into operation, the travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet (Binh Thuan province) was shortened to only about 2 hours, not only shortening the distance, making the car run smoothly but also avoiding the National Highway 1 parallel to this project which is "straining" itself with overload, especially the section from Xuan Loc district, Dong Nai to Ham Thuan Nam district, Binh Thuan. In addition to this highway, there is also the Saigon - Phan Thiet railway if visitors want to experience train service.

Saigon - Phan Thiet train

There are no overnight trains from Saigon to Phan Thiet, so you need to arrange a suitable departure time to avoid missing your journey. The earliest train from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet is SPT2, departing at 6:10 am and arriving at Phan Thiet station at 10:10 am. The train ride takes about 4 hours, and the train ticket price is 180,000 VND/person.

The simplest and most time-saving way to book tickets is to call to book tickets or buy train tickets online through the official website of Vietnam Railways Corporation https://dsvn.vn. Or go to Saigon train station, address: 01 Nguyen Thong, Ward 9, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City to buy tickets directly.

The distance from Phan Thiet station to Phan Thiet passenger wharf is about 4.5km, taking a taxi for about 15 minutes with a fare of about 65,000 VND/trip.

Saigon - Phan Thiet bus

Currently, there are many Limousine companies operating on the route from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet and vice versa, specifically: ADT Limousine, G5Car, Ben Tre Limousine, Hoang Vu Limousine, Thien Kim, Hai Tuan Limousine, ... with prices around 350,000 VND/ticket. Travel time from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet by bus is about 3.5 hours.

Previously, if passengers wanted to take a speedboat to Phu Quy, they often chose to take the 12:00 night bus of Phuong Trang, Hanh Cafe, Thuy Ha Linh... with a price of about 150,000 VND - 180,000 VND to Phan Thiet port around 4:00 am, then rest right at the cafes in front of Phan Thiet Passenger Wharf. The current bus companies are all equipped with beds, air conditioning and full amenities for the night journey, so passengers are completely comfortable and alert for the train early the next morning.

Useful tips on how to book ferry to Phu Quy island

Choosing the right high-speed ferry company is very important, because it directly affects your experience and health during the trip. Normally, tourists will rely on the following criteria to choose:

- Ship type, age and design.

- Is the ship stable? Does it cause seasickness?

- Is the seating spacious, comfortable and pleasant?

- Fares and services included on board.

- Service from booking to boarding by staff.

- Reviews and experiences from previous customers.

Currently, to book Phu Quy ferry, you will have 3 options: Superdong, Phu Quy Express and Hung Phat ferry. 

Superdong Ship

+ Adult fare: 370,000 VND / person

+ Children's fare (from 6 to 11 years old): 270,000 VND / person

+ Fare for elderly people (over 60 years old): 305,000 VND / person

According to reviews, the ship is clean and you will be served free water. The distance between the rows of seats is wide enough for you to stretch your legs and sit comfortably.

The journey from Phan Thiet to Phu Quy takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but during rough seas it can take longer and there is a higher risk of seasickness. Alternatively, you can pay an additional 50,000 VND to upgrade to VIP class with comfortable sleeper berths.

Ticket booking website: superdong.com.vn

Phu Quy Express

+ Adult fare: 390,000 VND / person

+ Children fare: (from 6 to 11 years old): 310,000 VND / person

+ Fare for elderly people:  (over 60 years old): 310,000 VND / person

+ VIP ticket: 580,000 VND per person

Most people will book tickets for the Phu Quy Express, because the ship is considered the leading and most modern high-speed train on the Phan Thiet - Phu Quy route. All cabins on the ship are equipped with luxurious amenities, including beds, comfortable seats, air conditioning, free coffee service, wifi connection, television, along with clean toilets... In particular, the ship also has VIP cabins to meet the needs of customers.

Travel time from Phan Thiet to Phu Quy Island will be about 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on the weather.

Ticket booking website: taucaotocphuquy.com

Hung Phat Ship

+ Seat ticket: 250,000 VND / person

+ Sleeper ticket: 250,000 VND / person

With the capacity to accommodate up to 250 passengers and 50 tons of cargo, this is one of the largest ships on the route. Travel time from Phan Thiet to Phu Quy Island usually lasts from 3 to 3.5 hours. 

To ensure the comfort of customers, all rooms and decks on the Hung Phat 26 are equipped with air conditioning systems. This helps tourists relax and rest comfortably during the trip before arriving at Phu Quy Island.

Ticket booking website: hungphatphuquy.vn

Benefits of booking ferry to Phu Quy island in advance

According to my experience, booking ticket before going to Phu Quy island will give you the following benefits:

+ Guaranteed seat on the boat: Booking Phu Quy ferry tickets in advance helps you ensure a seat on the boat to the island, avoiding the situation of no seats or having to wait for a long time.

+ Save time: With pre-booked tickets, you don't need to queue up at the pier to buy tickets. Instead, you just need to arrive on time to board the train and save waiting time.

+ Fare deals: There may be special offers when you book your ferry tickets in advance, including attractive fares or bundled service packages.

+ Easy seat selection: When booking tickets in advance, you can choose your preferred seat on the ferry, including air-conditioned indoor seats or outdoor seats to enjoy the sea view.

What is the best season to travel to Phu Quy?

To avoid seasickness, you should choose the time to go to Phu Quy Island between December and June when the weather is calm and the sea is calm. During this time, the climate is often very suitable for sightseeing and swimming. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural blue sky and watch the gentle waves rolling onto the rocky shore. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and experience the clear and fresh sea space.

Some notes when booking Phu Quy ferry

For the smoothest trip, remember the following when booking your ferry:

+ When purchasing a ticket, inform the staff that you are prone to seasickness and request to be seated in the middle or lower decks of the ship. This will minimize the impact of the waves on your body, helping you avoid feeling dizzy and uncomfortable due to seasickness.

+ To book a high-speed ferry, you need to provide one of the following identification documents: Passport, Identity Card, Citizen Identification Card, Driver's License, Student Card,...

+ Children under 6 years old do not need to buy a ticket and do not need to provide personal information. However, when traveling by ferry, parents need to bring their child's birth certificate (a photocopy is acceptable), student ID card or health insurance card to confirm age and family relationship.

Currently, Phu Quy shipping companies including Phu Quy Express, Superdong and Hung Phat all operate on the Phan Thiet - Phu Quy route and vice versa. Every day, there are a total of 3 ships from Phan Thiet to Phu Quy, with departure times from 6:30 to 7:00. Similarly, on the Phu Quy - Phan Thiet route, there are also 3 ships a day, with departure times from 8:00 to 10:00.

Hopefully the above information will help you book Phu Quy ferry easily.

Source: https://asiaticatravel.com/travellers-eyes/how-to-get-to-phu-quy-island-from-ho-chi-minh-city.asp

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Explore the southern space at Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village

Cai Be - Tien Giang has long been known to many people as a land of rich fruit trees, with a very developed type of garden eco-tourism associated with the Floating Market and the ancient village of Dong Hoa Hiep, attracting a large number of tourists. Vietnam Impressive Travel


Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village is located in Dong Hoa Hiep commune, Cai Be district, Tien Giang province, located in the lower Mekong River. From My Tho city, you can travel along National Highway 1A to Cai Be intersection, turn onto Provincial Road 875 about 4 km to Cai Be town center, go another 2 km to bridge number 2, you will see signs to the ancient houses: Ba Duc, Ong Xoat, Ong Tong...

Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village has a total of 7 hamlets, with nearly 4,000 households, living mainly on fruit gardens of all kinds: Hoa Loc mango, orange, green-skinned grapefruit, longan, Vinh Kim star apple... and traditional crafts such as: Com village, rice paper making, milk puff rolling...

According to historical documents, in the 18th century, in 1732, Lord Nguyen established a new unit in Phien Tran palace, Long Ho palace, and chose An Binh Dong village, Dong Hoa Hiep commune today, as the headquarters of Long Ho palace. In 1757, the headquarters moved to Long Ho village, Vinh Long city, Vinh Long province today. During the 25 years as the headquarters of Long Ho palace (1732-1757), Dong Hoa Hiep village gathered many mandarins and big landlords, making this land prosperous. 

From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, many houses were built with precious woods and tiled roofs, tall and wide in both Eastern and Western architecture, hidden by rivers and cool orchards, contributing to creating an architectural appearance and landscape that stands out from other localities. 

Along with Duong Lam village in Hanoi and Phuoc Tich village in Hue, Dong Hoa Hiep village is one of three ancient villages in Vietnam that have been selected by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to implement the Project "Supporting the Promotion of the Role of the Community in Sustainable Development in Vietnam, Through Heritage Tourism".

The road surrounding the village is shaded by green trees, with people growing flowers and vegetables on both sides, creating the soul of the countryside. That rustic beauty, combined with the poetic beauty of the Cai Be River and the canals winding in front of the ancient houses, makes this place even more attractive to international tourists to visit and experience the life of the people in the Tien Giang river region.

The first impression when visitors set foot here is the image of ancient houses bearing the bold architectural features of Southern garden houses dating back over 150 years. The ancient houses here are not located close together like in some other ancient villages but are interspersed with lush fruit gardens, creating a poetic beauty that attracts visitors. The ancient houses in Dong Hoa Hiep are scattered in An Binh Dong hamlet, Phu Hoa hamlet, An Loi hamlet, An Thanh hamlet... Some hamlets are connected to each other like a chessboard area, within a radius of about 2km, so visitors only need a bicycle or walk to go around the village...

First is the old house of Mr. Xoat (An Thach hamlet). This is the oldest old house in Dong Hoa Hiep, built in 1818, now 200 years old. Although the outside of the house has Western architecture, the inside has the appearance of a Hue traditional house combined with the architecture of a Southern folk house. Currently, the 6th generation descendants are living in the house.

Not as quiet as Mr. Xoat's old house, Mr. Kiet's old house (Phu Hoa hamlet) has many people coming and going, the children and grandchildren living in the house are also more crowded, full of the breath of life.

This house bears the mark of an ancient village in the Northern Delta with 5 rooms and 3 wings and many columns and rafters made of precious wood..., built in 1838. The house still preserves many precious antiques such as: a set of parallel sentences inlaid with mother-of-pearl, a set of tables and chairs with delicate patterns, porcelain items... known as the "nine great beauties" of Vietnam.

Located on an area of over 20,000m² and surrounded by a year-round fruit garden, Mr. Phan Van Duc's ancient house has an architectural style that harmoniously combines Southern and French culture.

The house was built in 1850, on a foundation 0.5m above ground, consisting of two houses, the front house and the back house, separated by a Thien Tinh courtyard (skylight). Currently, the house still preserves many precious and beautiful items, showing the luxurious and elegant hobby of wealthy families in the South in the past. In addition to the fruit garden that visitors can visit and enjoy, in front of the house there are also beautiful flower pots and bonsai trees. Even more poetic and lovely is the ferry dock in front of the house, convenient for visitors to visit by water, with bougainvillea blooming all year round.

There are many other ancient houses in the village. Each house has its own mark. Mr. Tong’s ancient house is hidden behind a fence of bright yellow trumpet vine flowers and in front of the house are many old apricot trees bearing the cultural identity of the Southern river region. Mr. Vo’s ancient house has a dark brown tiled roof, shiny black sofas bearing the color of time…

If you want to experience resting and eating in an ancient house, you can contact Mr. Kiet's family, Mr. Vo's family, Mr. Ba Duc's family... These ancient houses all have homestay tourism services. Visitors can experience daily activities with the locals: participating in making green rice flakes, making rice paper, rolling milk puffs, taking care of the fruit garden, going to Cai Be floating market , catching fish in the ditch; listening to traditional music; ...

Currently, Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village has 7 ancient houses built from 150 to 220 years ago and 29 houses built from 80 to 100 years ago. With its great cultural and architectural values, Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village was honored to be recognized as a National Monument by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2017.

Along with the ancient houses and lush green gardens, the people of Dong Hoa Hiep also preserve and promote the value of a simple lifestyle, creating a form of community tourism with its own identity. Traveling to Tien Giang, coming to the ancient village, visitors will feel the hospitality and honesty of the people of the Southwest region.

Since 2013, the Dong Hoa Hiep Ancient Village Tourism Festival has been invested in and since then, the Festival has been held regularly every two years, with many activities bearing traditional and folk cultural identities, attracting a large number of visitors.

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/blog/unique-dong-hoa-hiep-ancient-village-in-tien-giang.html