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: Experience unique Hanoi Train appearing for the first time

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: A memorable trip to Con Dao island

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: Ancient stone bridge of Nom village

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: Suoi Mo ecotourism area - An attractive destination in Bac Giang

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: Preserving traditional craft village of Thuy Xuan

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: Bich Dam island village in the middle of Nha Trang bay

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: How to take a speedboat to Con Dao island

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: How to get to Phu Quy island from Ho Chi Minh city

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: Unique Dong Hoa Hiep ancient village in Tien Giang

Discover Lan Dat village - the hidden gem in Lang Son

Located about 10km from the center of Huu Lien commune (Huu Lung district), Lan Dat village has been one of the ideal tourist destinations in Lang Son in recent years thanks to its green and pristine natural scenery. Ethnic Travel

This is a small village of the Dzao people, located next to the Dong Lam grassland but almost completely isolated from the outside world, separated by jagged, rocky mountains covered in clouds all year round.

The only road into the village has to cross a high mountain with many sharp, steep cliffs, along the rugged mountainside, with continuous bends.

Although the road is difficult and it is impossible to get to the village by any means, visitors coming here are compensated by the fresh, quiet space, without the sound of vehicles, dust, or noise.

Depending on the physical strength and speed of each tourist, the time to cross the forest and mountains to reach Lan Dat can take from 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Having the opportunity to visit Lan Dat village in March, Ngo Yen (born in 1996, in Bac Ninh province and her friends were surprised by the wild and strangely beautiful natural scenery.

“There is no phone signal or electricity here, but the air is fresh and very cool. There are many buffaloes and horses grazing around the village, creating a feeling of closeness and familiarity like many other countrysides in Vietnam,” the young girl said.

Yen and her group of friends rode motorbikes 70km from Bac Ninh to Dong Lam grassland and then walked to Lan Dat village. They left at 8:30 and returned home at 7:00 p.m.

From Dong Lam grassland, Yen and her group of friends moved along a small trail leading to Lan Dat village. There was a very steep section of the road with many jagged rocks that made the young girl's feet hurt a bit.

After about 30 minutes of traveling, the group arrived. They stopped to rest at a local's house and then took the opportunity to walk around and explore the scenery.

“Our group was lucky to have Phung, a local, to help with directions, so we were able to shorten our travel time,” Yen added.

At Lan Dat village, in addition to enjoying the peaceful, green landscape, Yen also had the opportunity to have lunch with the locals, enjoying some special local dishes such as bee pupae, grilled chicken, smoked meat...

“I was so happy to eat and socialize with everyone in Lan Dat village that I didn't even want to go home.

In the upcoming rice harvest season, I plan to return here to admire a very different beauty of the village," the female tourist humorously said.

Yen noted that if tourists plan to go to Lan Dat village, they should prepare necessary food and drinks because there are no tourism services here, only nearly 10 households living by farming and raising livestock.

In addition, during the time here, visitors need to preserve the landscape and environment, and not litter.

If you have the opportunity to visit Huu Lung district, in addition to Lan Dat village, visitors can combine to explore some other interesting places in the locality such as: Khe Dau waterfall, Bac Son valley, Ma mine, Lan Van dam, Huu Lien commune community eco-village...

Visitors should also not forget to enjoy some typical dishes imbued with local cultural identity such as roasted pork with mac mat leaves, roasted duck, sour Pho, crispy fried stream fish, and Huu Lung grilled spring rolls.

Source: A day at the remote village of Lan Dat

What should we do in 4 days in Phu Quoc island, Vietnam?

4 days in Phu Quoc is an ideal amount of time for you to explore the many beauties of this pearl island. Below is a detailed suggested itinerary, combining famous attractions, fun activities, and relaxation: Footprint Vietnam Travel

Day 1: Exploring the Pristine North of the Island

• Morning: Phu Quoc National Park & Ganh Dau Cape:

- Rent a motorbike or self-drive car (or take a tour) to explore the North of the Island. The first destination is Phu Quoc National Park. You can enjoy a light trek in the primeval forest, discover the diverse ecosystem, and enjoy the fresh air.

- Continue moving to Ganh Dau Cape, a land jutting out into the sea with a wild and beautiful natural landscape. From here, you can see the Cambodian sea border. Don't forget to visit Mui Ganh Dau (Ganh Dau Point) and admire Bai Dai (Long Beach) from above.

• Lunch: Enjoy Seafood Lunch at Ganh Dau:

- Savor fresh seafood at local restaurants in the Ganh Dau area at affordable prices.

• Afternoon: Bai Sao Beach & Ham Ninh Fishing Village:

- Head south and visit Bai Sao Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc with powdery white sand and clear blue water. You can swim, relax on the beach, or participate in water sports.

- At the end of the day, visit Ham Ninh fishing village, an ancient and peaceful village. Here, you can watch the sunset over the sea, enjoy fresh seafood (especially Ham Ninh crab), and learn about the local people's lives.

• Evening: Dinner and Stroll along the Beach in Duong Dong Town:

- Return to Duong Dong Town, the center of Phu Quoc. Have dinner at the beachfront restaurants or explore Dinh Cau Night Market with many attractive street food options and souvenirs.

Day 2: Fun Activities in South Phu Quoc & Pearl Exploration

• Full Day: Exploring South Phu Quoc (take a tour or go independently):

- Option 1 (4 Islands Tour): Join a tour to explore 4 beautiful islands in the South: Mong Tay Island (Fingernail Island), Gam Ghi Island (or Dam Ngang Island), May Rut Trong Island, Thom Island (Pineapple Island). The tour usually includes snorkeling to see coral reefs, swimming, fun activities on the islands, and lunch on the boat.

- Option 2 (Independent Exploration): 

- Morning: Visit Phu Quoc Prison, a historical site marking the years of resistance. Then, visit Bai Kem (Cream Beach or Starfish Beach) with its pristine beauty.

- Lunch: Have lunch at Bai Kem or nearby restaurants.

- Afternoon: Visit Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery, a large and beautiful pagoda located on a mountain, facing the sea. Next, visit a Pearl Farm to learn about the pearl farming process and shop for souvenirs.

• Evening: Seafood Dinner and Relaxation:

o Enjoy a delicious fresh seafood dinner at restaurants in Duong Dong Town or the Bai Truong area. Afterward, you can relax at a spa or beachfront bar.

Day 3: Fun at VinWonders Phu Quoc & Safari

• Full Day: Fun at VinWonders Phu Quoc & Vinpearl Safari: 

- Spend a whole day exploring VinWonders Phu Quoc, a world-class entertainment complex with many zones such as Water Park, Adventure World, European Avenue, Aquarium, etc.

- In the afternoon, you can move to Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, the largest semi-wild animal care and conservation park in Vietnam. Here, you can see rare animals from all over the world in their natural habitat.

- Have dinner at one of the restaurants in the VinWonders area and enjoy the unique performance shows.

Day 4: Exploring South Phu Quoc (continued) & Shopping

• Morning: Fish Sauce Factory & Pepper Farm:

- Visit a Fish Sauce Factory, one of Phu Quoc's famous traditional crafts. You will learn about the process of making delicious anchovy fish sauce.

- Visit the lush green Phu Quoc Pepper Farm, where you can buy green and black peppercorns as souvenirs.

• Lunch: Local Lunch:

- Enjoy local dishes at eateries along the way.

• Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping & Prepare to Leave the Island:

- Spend time shopping for Phu Quoc specialties such as fish sauce, pepper, dried seafood, pearls, etc., at Duong Dong Market or specialty stores.

- Prepare your luggage to travel to the airport or pier.

• Evening: Depends on your flight/boat schedule.

Additional Suggestions:

• Transportation: Renting a motorbike is a popular and economical option for exploring the island. If traveling in a large group, renting a self-drive car or using taxis/ride-hailing apps is also very convenient. Group tours are a good choice if you want a fixed itinerary and a tour guide.

• Accommodation: Phu Quoc has many accommodation options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly homestays. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.

• Food and Drink: Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood, "bun quay" (stirred noodles), "banh canh cha ca" (fish cake noodle soup), "goi ca trich" (herring salad), etc.

• Weather: The dry season (November to April) is the best time to visit Phu Quoc with sunny weather and calm seas. The rainy season (May to October) can have showers but still has sunny days.

• Book in Advance: If you plan to visit VinWonders or take the Hon Thom cable car, it is best to book tickets online in advance to save time and potentially get better prices.

Wishing you a truly fun and memorable 4-day trip to Phu Quoc island

Source: 4 days in Phu Quoc island, what should I do?

2 days in Hue, Vietnam - Ideal itinerary for your first visit

With 2 days in Hue, you can explore many unique historical and cultural sites and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Below is a detailed itinerary suggestion for your reference: Vietnam Ethnic Travel

Day 1: Exploring the Citadel of Hue and the Royal Tombs

• Morning: Hue Citadel (Imperial City):

Start your day by visiting the Citadel, a magnificent complex of palaces and temples that was once the home and workplace of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors. You will have the opportunity to admire iconic structures such as Ngo Mon Gate, Dien Thai Hoa (Palace of Supreme Harmony), the Forbidden Purple City, The Mieu Temple, Hien Lam Pavilion, and more.

Spend about 3-4 hours exploring all the areas within the Citadel. You can hire a tour guide to better understand the history and architecture of each structure.

• Lunch: Enjoy Hue Specialty Dishes:

Savor famous Hue specialties such as Bun Bo Hue (Hue-style beef noodle soup), Com Hen (mussel rice), Banh Khoai (crispy savory pancake), and Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers) at local restaurants or eateries near the Citadel area.

• Afternoon: Visiting the Royal Tombs:

In the afternoon, you can choose to visit one or two of the famous royal tombs of the Nguyen emperors located in the outskirts of the city. Some popular options include: 

- Tomb of Khai Dinh: With its unique architecture, a blend of Eastern and Western styles.

- Tomb of Minh Mang: Famous for its ancient beauty and harmony with nature.

- Tomb of Tu Duc: Possessing a poetic and romantic beauty with lakes and pine forests.

You can rent a motorbike, take a taxi, or join a group tour to travel between the tombs.

• Evening: Enjoying Hue Cuisine and Nightlife:

- Stroll along the Perfume River, admiring the shimmering Trang Tien Bridge at night.

- Enjoy dinner at riverside restaurants or explore street food in the Pham Ngu Lao Street area or night markets.

- If you have time, you can watch Hue folk singing on the Perfume River to further experience Hue's traditional art and culture.

Day 2: Exploring Pagodas and Natural Beauty

• Morning: Thien Mu Pagoda and Boat Trip on the Perfume River:

- In the morning, you can rent a dragon boat along the Perfume River to reach Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most sacred pagodas in Hue, famous for its seven-story Phuoc Duyen Pagoda.

- Enjoy the fresh air and peaceful scenery along both banks of the Perfume River during the boat trip.

• Lunch: Enjoy Vegetarian or Local Specialty Lunch:

Have a serene vegetarian lunch at restaurants near Thien Mu Pagoda or return to the city center to enjoy other local specialties.

• Afternoon: Optional Visits:

Depending on your interests and time, you can choose to visit some of the following places: 

- Hon Chen Temple: A unique historical and cultural relic located on Ngoc Tran Mountain, on the banks of the Perfume River.

- Bach Ma National Park: If you love nature and want to explore a diverse ecosystem (about 40km from Hue).

- An Hien Garden House: A typical ancient garden house of Hue with unique architecture and a green, cool space.

- Dong Ba Market: The largest market in Hue, where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy street food.

• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Shopping and End of Trip:

- Spend time shopping for souvenirs at Dong Ba Market or local specialty stores.

- Enjoy a final dinner in Hue before concluding your trip.

Some Notes:

- Transportation: You can rent a motorbike to freely move between locations, or use taxis or ride-hailing apps. Group tours are also a convenient option.

- Weather: Hue has a tropical monsoon climate, with the summer (May - September) being hot and humid. You should bring cool clothes, sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas.

- Attire: When visiting temples and tombs, you should dress respectfully and modestly.

- Food and Drink: Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy Hue's specialty dishes. Ask locals to find delicious and authentic eateries.

- Time: The above itinerary is just a suggestion; you can adjust it to suit your preferences and time.

Wishing you a pleasant and memorable trip to Hue!

Source: 2 days visiting Hue, where should I go?

Hai Hau - a beach destination that attracts visitors

Surely when it comes to beaches in Vietnam, many people will immediately think of famous white sand beaches such as Nha Trang, Da Nang... But few people know that Hai Hau district in Nam Dinh also has its own wonderful and unique beaches. These are not only great destinations for you to enjoy the cool sea air but also impressive experiences. Footprint Vietnam Travel

Hai Thinh Beach

In Thinh Long town, Hai Hau district, Nam Dinh

Hai Thinh Beach is considered an ideal destination for your summer vacation. Only 160km from Hanoi, this beach has cool air and smooth white sand that has attracted countless visitors. 

The reason is because the white sand here is very fine, when combined with the blue of the ocean, it creates a wild and mysterious natural picture. 

Coming to Hai Thinh beach, you have the opportunity to experience swimming at two large beaches. If the first beach is extremely bustling with convenient shops, the second beach will be simpler and more rustic, giving you moments to immerse yourself in the life of the fishing village people. But no matter which beach, when you come to Nam Dinh beach, you will definitely have wonderful moments of relaxation. 

To explore Hai Thinh beach more complete, you can combine sea tourism with visiting famous temples and pagodas in Nam Dinh such as Tran Temple, Phu Day, Co Le Pagoda, and the Memorial House of the late General Secretary Truong Chinh. All these experiences will leave you with many good impressions. 

Xuong Dien Beach

In Hai Ly commune, Hai Hau district, Nam Dinh

Located only about 40km from Nam Dinh city center and 150km from Hanoi, Xuong Dien beach becomes an ideal destination for short weekend trips. Although it is not an ideal place for swimming because the waves here often hit hard, this beach is a paradise for you to take photos and admire nature.

The unique and attractive point of Xuong Dien beach is the Heart Church. Due to the encroachment of seawater, the church now only has the bell tower and the outer skeleton remaining. This ruin is both ancient and magical, creating a unique check-in space that makes everyone want to capture the magical moment when coming here.

With its vast and open space, Xuong Dien beach is an ideal destination to watch the movement of nature between day and night. You can enjoy the brilliant sunrise or romantic sunset, when the sun seems reluctant to leave the sea. 

Xuong Dien Beach is a unique gem in Nam Dinh beach tourism, where you can not only immerse yourself in the wonderful natural beauty but also experience unique check-in spots.

Thinh Long Beach 

In Thinh Long town, Hai Hau district, Nam Dinh

Although Thinh Long Beach does not have fine white sand like the wonders in Nha Trang or Phu Quoc, it still scores with its own unique beauty. The crystal clear sea water creates a fresh, cool atmosphere even when the sun is shining brightly.

In particular, Thinh Long beach is also famous for its unique stone and concrete embankments with unique shapes. This is not only a great place to enjoy the cool sea water and participate in recreational activities such as jet skiing and fishing, but also an ideal place for you to take lovely photos.

Source: https://footprintvietnamtravel.com/blog/best-beaches-in-hai-hau-visitors-cannot-miss.php

Discover Mui Dinh Ninh Thuan, the land of paradise

Mui Dinh or Dinh Cape is located in Phuoc Dinh commune, Thuan Nam district, Ninh Thuan province, 30km south of Phan Rang - Thap Cham city center. Asiatica Travel Vietnam

The road to Mui Dinh is quite difficult and bumpy. There are almost no residents here, so it still retains its rare wildness. That is why Mui Dinh still retains its peaceful appearance, creating a gentle, relaxing feeling for those who accidentally set foot here.

Although located quite far from the city center, Mui Dinh is still a place visited by travel enthusiasts because of the majestic scenery, as well as the endless beauty of the roads leading here.

How to get to Mui Dinh

By motorbike: Traveling by motorbike is the method chosen by many young people when traveling to Mui Dinh. This is a convenient means of transport, helping you easily conquer difficult terrain as well as being more proactive in moving or stopping to rest.

If you choose to travel from Phan Rang - Thap Cham city to Mui Dinh, you can follow National Highway 1A to the South for about 15km. When you reach Van Lam Cham village, turn left and go through the Lagerstroemia area for about 8km, you will see Dai Bang mountain. From Dai Bang mountain, you travel another 7km to reach Son Hai village. Finally, you will move through a sand desert to reach Mui Dinh area.

In addition, there is also a road to Mui Dinh with beautiful coastal scenery, which is the road along Ca Na beach. When you pass Ca Na lagoon, turn onto DT701 road to go to Mui Dinh. Please note that this is a road with many bends and turns, you need to concentrate and have a steady hand on the wheel.

By bus: To get to Mui Dinh from Ho Chi Minh City, you can choose bus routes to Ninh Thuan from Mien Dong Bus Station with fares ranging from 160,000 - 200,000 VND/person.

Bus routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Ninh Thuan usually take about 5 hours. To save time, you can travel the night before, stay overnight on the bus and arrive in Phan Rang - Thap Cham city early in the morning.

By train: In addition to the above means, you can travel to Mui Dinh by train. From Ho Chi Minh City to Ninh Thuan, the fares ranges from 150,000 - 250,000 VND. From Hanoi to Ninh Thuan, the ticket price will range from 600,000 VND.

If you travel by train from Hanoi, it will take you about 1 day to travel and on this route, you can admire the beautiful scenery of the country from North to South.

The picturesque beauty of Mui Dinh

Mui Dinh has many beautiful landscapes. In addition to the rocky cape jutting out towards the sea to welcome the wind and rain, this place also contains romantic beauty like a love letter of Ninh Thuan embracing the beautiful Central strip of land.

As mentioned above, to get to Mui Dinh, you can move through the DT701 route. This route appears with a beauty that you can imagine as a remote expeditionary area. With one side being rolling hills and dotted with an ecosystem that thrives on barren land but still retains its lush green color. On the other side are the sea breezes blowing like bringing the breath of the sea into every sense.

On the way to Mui Dinh, you can see sheep farms covering a green grassland, or see a peaceful and gentle sand dune called Nam Cuong. Nam Cuong sand dune is about 8km from Phan Rang, where you can see life slowing down every sunset, when Cham girls wearing jars on their heads are gently moving across the sand to return home.

Unlike Hon Do which is another attraction in Ninh Thuan famous for coral rocks, Mui Dinh has its own wild and gentle beauty. The clear blue sea water gently rushes to the shore, blending with the white sand, creating a peaceful feeling for those who visit here. The large rocks with strange shapes are like a strange highlight for the scenery of Mui Dinh.

Looking from above on Dai Bang Mountain, you can admire the whole view of Mui Dinh like a colorful landscape painting stretching out to the vast ocean. In addition to the vast beach with clear blue water and gentle as a light breeze, around Mui Dinh is also a large desert area dotted with a few rows of cacti stretching out among the white sand.

In the distance is the 180m high Mui Dinh lighthouse, built during the French colonial period in 1904, with the task of lighting the way for ships entering and leaving the cape safely.

The road to Mui Dinh lighthouse is quite beautiful, you can see goats walking on the slopes. When you reach the top of the lighthouse, you can freely admire the whole view of Mui Dinh and admire the ingenuity of nature.

Source: https://asiaticatravel.com/travellers-eyes/visit-mui-dinh-in-ninh-thuan.asp

Free train tickets for tourists to Binh Dinh on liberation anniversary

Visitors to Binh Dinh will receive free round-trip tickets for additional trains/carriages from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang from March 28 to April 1, 2025. Vietnam Impressive Travel

A representative of the Department of Culture - Sports - Tourism of Binh Dinh province said that the agency is implementing a program to attract tourists by rail on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of Binh Dinh province (March 31, 1975 - March 31, 2025) and promoting the Binh Dinh tourism brand with the theme "Safe destination, unique characteristics, civilized, friendly and attractive" to domestic and foreign tourists.

In particular, Binh Dinh will deploy a number of charter trains/carriages (renting the entire trip/carriage) with free tickets for tourists from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang to Binh Dinh. Tourists only need to book tours to Binh Dinh by these charter trains/carriages in advance through the Binh Dinh Tourism Association to receive free round-trip tickets.

According to the Binh Dinh Province Tourism Association, the train tour program has 1,186 seats/way on charter trains from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang to Binh Dinh from March 28 to April 1.

Specifically, the charter trains/carriages from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang to Binh Dinh include the Saigon - Quy Nhon route. On this route, train SE30 departs from Saigon station on Friday evening (March 28) at 9:30 p.m. and arrives at Quy Nhon station on Saturday morning (March 29) at 11 a.m. The return trip, train SE29 departs from Quy Nhon station on Monday evening (March 31) at 3:30 p.m. and arrives at Saigon station on Tuesday morning (April 1) at 6:20 a.m.

The Hanoi - Dieu Tri route will deploy 3 chartered train cars attached to train SE7, departing from Hanoi station on Friday morning (March 28) at 06:10, arriving at Dieu Tri station on Saturday morning (March 29) at 05:00. The return route will hire 3 train cars attached to train SE8, departing from Dieu Tri station on Monday evening (March 31) at 18:40, arriving at Hanoi station on Tuesday evening (April 1) at 19:10.

The Da Nang - Quy Nhon route will be chartered for the entire trip, departing from Da Nang station on Saturday morning (March 29) at 6:00 a.m. and arriving at Quy Nhon station at 1:00 p.m. The return trip will depart from Quy Nhon station on Monday afternoon (March 31) at 4:30 p.m. and arrive at Da Nang station at 11:30 p.m. the same day.

To ensure tourists come to Binh Dinh, the program will give away 0 VND tickets to tourists who book "Epic Journey" and "Quintessence of martial arts land" tours at travel and booking agencies.

In particular, the tour Tinh Hoa Dat Vo includes attractions such as: Center for Science Discovery and Innovation, Twin Towers, Eo Gio, Ngoc Hoa pagoda, Bich Hoa village, Thien Hung Zen monastery, Ba pagoda (Nuoc Man port), Quoc Ngu script relic, Lang Song minor seminary and martial arts experience at Long Phuoc pagoda...

The Epic Journey Tour includes attractions such as: Center for Science Discovery and Innovation, Banh It Tower, Thap Thap Pagoda, Hoang De Citadel, Quang Trung Museum, Lang Song Minor Seminary, Ba Pagoda (Nuoc Man Port)...

A representative of the Binh Dinh Tourism Association informed that these two tours are completely new, designed specifically for the train travel program to create a high spread, promote the image of Binh Dinh land and people. Especially the epic art program (evening of March 30) and the high-altitude fireworks display right after the art program.

In addition to 2 new tours dedicated to the train tourism program, Binh Dinh Tourism Association also organized Famtrip Binh Dinh 2025 (from March 29 to 31) with the theme "Opportunities for cooperation - tourism development"; organized a workshop (March 31) on solutions for sustainable tourism development in Binh Dinh, proposing cooperation strategies to enhance Binh Dinh tourism.

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/news/detail/666/travel-to-binh-dinh-with-free-train-tickets.html

Explore Ca Mau mangrove forest with interesting experiences

Ca Mau mangrove forest stretches across the southernmost tip of Vietnam. With an area of up to 63,017 hectares, Ca Mau mangrove forest is not only a valuable biological treasure but also a beautiful natural picture. Vietnam Ethnic Travel

Ca Mau mangrove forest is the second largest mangrove forest in the world , second only to the Amazon primeval forest in South America. These forests stretch across 6 districts of Ca Mau province: Dam Doi district, Tran Van Thoi district, Phu Tan district, U Minh district, Nam Can district and Ngoc Hien district.

The vast mangrove forests, winding rivers and streams, and diverse ecosystems have created a majestic and pristine natural picture. Ca Mau mangrove forests are like a solid shield, protecting the coast from the erosion of ocean waves, while providing an abundant source of food for aquatic species. In addition, the forest also plays an important role in regulating the climate, absorbing CO2 and providing oxygen to the environment.

Best time to visit Ca Mau mangrove forest

The best time to explore Ca Mau mangrove forest is from December to May, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, each season in Ca Mau brings its own unique experiences.

During the rainy season (from May to November), the mangrove forest is covered with a green coat, and the ecosystem becomes extremely rich. During the dry season (from December to May), you can freely participate in forest exploration activities , watch migratory birds and enjoy local specialties.

Experience exploring Ca Mau mangrove forest

Ca Mau mangrove forest is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a valuable biological treasure. With 22 species of trees, 13 species of mammals, 17 species of reptiles and hundreds of other animals, Ca Mau mangrove forest is one of the most diverse ecosystems in Vietnam. Exploring the mangrove forest not only helps you relax but also contributes to raising awareness about environmental protection and biodiversity.

Come to Ca Mau mangrove forest with a system of bridges, roads and paths that have been invested in and built, you will have the opportunity to explore the green mangrove forests, see rare birds and learn about the lives of local people. Not only is it an interesting travel experience, exploring the mangrove forest also helps you better understand the important role of this ecosystem for the environment.

Famous mangrove forest sites

Ngoc Hien mangrove forest

Ngoc Hien mangrove forest is not only a normal mangrove forest but also a valuable natural heritage. With hundreds of years of age, Ngoc Hien mangrove forest has created a unique ecosystem, with many rare species of animals and plants. Coming here you will have the opportunity to explore the wonders that nature has bestowed on this land.

Mangrove Forest Lam Ngu Truong 184

With a diverse and rich ecosystem, along with interesting experiences, Lam Ngu Truong 184 will bring you unforgettable memories. Let's immerse yourself in nature, discover the wonders of the mangrove forest and enjoy the fresh air of Ca Mau land.

U Minh Ha Forest

U Minh Ha Forest is not only a nature reserve but also an attractive tourist destination. Here, you can participate in many interesting activities such as: boating to explore the cajuput forest, catching fish in ditches, enjoying specialties of the Mekong delta. This will be a great opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature and experience the life of local people.

Ca Mau mangrove forest is not only a tourist destination, but also a journey of self-discovery. With unique experiences, you will find peace and relaxation in the middle of wild nature. Come to Ca Mau and discover the wonders that mangrove forests bring!

Source: https://ethnictravelvietnam.com/blog/how-to-visit-ca-mau-mangrove-forest/

Discover Thi Nai lagoon - the precious gem of Binh Dinh province

Thi Nai lagoon is located in Quy Nhon city, Tuy Phuoc district and Phu Cat district, Binh Dinh province. It has an area of over 5000 hectares and is considered the largest saltwater lagoon in Binh Dinh province. Vietnam Impressive Travel

This place is 16km long - home to a diverse flora and fauna system. You can freely explore the mangrove forest with hundreds of species of shrimp, crab, fish, marine life... Thi Nai Lagoon is considered a masterpiece of natural beauty. People come to Thi Nai Lagoon not only to explore a diverse nature but also to learn about the beauty of the history and people of Binh Dinh.

How to get to Thi Nai lagoon

From Quy Nhon city, you go along National Highway 19 about 5km to reach Phuoc Thuan commune, Tuy Phuoc district. From here, go a few more kilometers until you pass the gate of Tan Thuan cultural village to reach the fishing village on the bank of Thi Nai lagoon. Because Thi Nai bridge has just been built and put into operation, the way here is very convenient.

Attractive things to do at Thi Nai Lagoon

Explore the landscape of Thi Nai Lagoon

No matter what time of year you come here, you will always see a picturesque natural landscape. In the early morning, the lagoon has a magical scene because of the sunlight reflecting on the lake surface. In the afternoon, the purple-red sunset reflects on the water, making this place look like a strangely magical fairyland.

Don’t forget to explore Con Chim Ecological Area located next to the lagoon. This place is considered the green lung of Quy Nhon town, with an area of up to 1000 hectares and is home to hundreds of strange bird species.

Visit Thay Boi tower

Going to the west bank of Thi Nai Lagoon is Thay Boi (Fortune teller) tower. This sacred place is associated with an ancient legend of the local people. They told each other about a fortune teller who came here to build a tower and practice his profession. He was so good at fortune telling that people had to line up their boats to wait to have their fortune told.

After his death, the tower was also destroyed in a storm and flood. Later, people built a small temple to worship the water god and remember the good teacher.

Take a photo at Thi Nai Bridge 

Thi Nai Bridge is located across the lagoon. This bridge is known as the longest sea-crossing bridge in Vietnam. The bridge is over 2,400m long and has 54 connecting spans. This is an important trade route between Quy Nhon and Phuong Mai peninsula. Standing on Thi Nai Bridge, you will be able to admire the vast waves and the entire beautiful landscape of the lagoon.

Thi Nai Bridge is also a beautiful photo shoot location in Quy Nhon for couples to make their wedding album. Don't forget to check-in a few photos to commemorate here!

Tourist attractions near Thi Nai Lagoon

Phuong Mai sand hill 

Near Thi Nai Lagoon, there is an equally famous place for you to visit, which is Phuong Mai sand hill . The sand hill is about 100m high. Therefore, when you climb to the top, you can admire the beautiful panoramic view of Phuong Mai peninsula from above. Not only is it a familiar check-in location for many young people, Phuong Mai sand hill also has an equally interesting sand sliding activity!

Explore Phuong Mai peninsula

Phuong Mai Peninsula (also known as Nhon Hoi Economic Zone) is a hot tourist destination in Quy Nhon. The peninsula is over 1,300 hectares wide and not only has a diverse ecosystem but also famous beaches such as Nhon Hai Beach, Nhon Ly Beach, Cat Tien Beach... You can freely experience swimming, eco-tourism, resorts... here.

Hon Seo island

Hon Seo is a pristine island on Phuong Mai peninsula. Hon Seo is only over 1km wide but extremely beautiful because of nature and no human intervention. Coming to Hon Seo to explore the diverse coral system, stroll on the rocky cliffs, catch sea urchins or camp overnight is wonderful.

What to eat in Thi Nai?

Thi Nai Lagoon, Quy Nhon is famous for its seafood and delicious dishes made from fish and snails that are taken from the lagoon. Some delicious dishes you can try are: jellyfish salad with shrimp paste, jellyfish broth, steamed clams, sea urchins, shrimp noodle soup, steamed mackerel, mackerel soup... Every dish is fresh and delicious and prepared according to the very unique recipe of Binh Dinh people.

However, there are not many restaurants around Thi Nai Lagoon. If you want to enjoy delicious seafood, go to the restaurants near Nhon Ly area!

Some restaurants for you to enjoy seafood:

- Huong Duong Quan: main road in Eo Gio Ky Co area, Nhon Ly Commune, Quy Nhon

- Moc Vien restaurant: Ly Luong village, Nhon Ly commune,  Quy Nhon

- Hoang Thao restaurant: Eo Gio, Nhon Ly Commune, Quy Nhon

Source: https://impressivevietnamtravel.com/blog/visit-beautiful-thi-nai-lagoon-in-binh-dinh.html

Cat Hai island, interesting destination in northeast Vietnam

Cat Hai island, Hai Phong City, is one of two towns in Cat Hai District. This island is very vulnerable to erosion and tidal erosion, with an area of about 40 square kilometers, running along the East Sea coast. To cope with this situation, a 2,048-meter-long breakwater has been built and a total of 10 kilometers of dike road serving to block waves and sand. Asiatica Travel Vietnam

Cat Hai Island is considered a beautiful tourist destination, with scale and potential for tourism development. From a breakwater construction, this place is gradually becoming an attractive destination for tourists, especially young people who love to explore.

Cat Hai not only attracts visitors by its natural beauty but also captivates them by the beauty of tradition, with long-standing festivals. Coming to Cat Hai you will have the opportunity to participate in the boat racing festival. This festival takes place on 21st day of the first lunar month every year, when people go to sea to pray to Nam Hai Dai Vuong - the god who protects the sea, to hope for a year of favorable weather, bringing prosperity in catching seafood.

Best time to visit Cat Hai island

Cat Hai is an island with a cool and temperate climate. Spring has light winds, little rain and lots of sunshine, with quite warm weather. From May to June is the time when the south wind is strong. Around July and August every year, there is often a lot of rain and storms. The last months of the year such as September and October are the time of heavy rain and dense fog.

According to experience, the best time to travel to Cat Hai is from February to June. At this time, the air is very pleasant, the sunlight is not too strong and there is no rain or fog, creating favorable conditions for outdoor activities. If you want to take pictures, you should come around dawn and dusk during the day.

How to get there

To get to Cat Hai Island, you first need to travel to Hai Phong city. You can choose from many means of transport: plane, train or car,... depending on your departure point. If you use a bus from Hanoi, you can go to Giap Bat or Nuoc Ngam bus station to buy a ticket, the travel time is about more than 1 hour. Trains are also a suitable means of transport to Hai Phong before going to Cat Hai, fares range from 70,000 VND - 100,000 VND/person.

After arriving in Hai Phong, you need to go one more stop to Cat Hai island district and then continue to Cat Hai island. When arriving at this island, you have 2 options to travel: go directly by your own motorbike or take a motorbike taxi. The place to catch a bus to the island is Lach Huyen port, not too far from the center of Hai Phong city.

The route to travel by motorbike directly to the island is: from Hai Phong city center, go along Highway 5, pass Dinh Vu and Mac Thai To streets, then go to Lach Huyen bridge. When crossing the bridge, you will see a sign showing the way to Lach Huyen port, turn right and continue along the trail for a short distance to reach the island, this is the fastest and easiest route for those who are not good at finding their way, and it is not too difficult.

Interesting things to do at Cat Hai island

1. Super beautiful scenery for photography

Cat Hai Island impresses visitors with its unique and novel landscape, especially when viewed from above. When you set foot here, you will experience a large open space with a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. This is a place where the blue of the sky and the ocean blend together, the gentle sound of the waves seems to bring visitors into a very peaceful and quiet space.

When the tide recedes, Cat Hai island appears very special and impressive beauty. The perfect combination of sea, sky and the last rays of sunlight of the day. That beautiful scene, perhaps taking a few check-in photos is still not enough to describe all that you see right before your eyes.

 2. Take photos at the famous breakwater

When visiting Cat Hai Island, the breakwater is a stop not to be missed. This is a 2,500m long dike, built to prevent seawater from flooding Lach Huyen estuary and help ships enter and exit the port more conveniently. With its unique architecture, the breakwater on Cat Hai Island is increasingly becoming a favorite destination for those who love to explore and check-in in this port town.

3. Visit spiritual tourist attractions

There are many architectural works reflecting the cultural diversity here. In particular, the communal houses, pagodas, temples, shrines here were built hundreds of years ago. Among them, Hoa Hy Pagoda (Kim Lien Tu) from 1625 and Don Luong Communal House built from the Later Le Dynasty (1663) are ancient relics that you must definitely visit.

These architectural works are also the place where many cultural and religious activities typical of the island take place. If you come here in January, you have the opportunity to participate in special festivals such as: Horse-pulling festival, Rowing festival,... with many interesting activities. Contributing to creating more attractiveness for tourism of this island with visitors from everywhere.

What to eat when traveling to Cat Hai island?

When coming here, people always look forward to enjoying local cuisine. In addition to the beautiful scenery, the following specialties of this island will also make you so fascinated that you "forget the way home":

- Crab spring rolls: 

This is a famous specialty of Hai Phong city and is one of the dishes not to be missed when traveling to Cat Hai. To make a delicious spring roll, the crab must be fresh crab caught from the sea of Cat Hai, Do Son or Bach Long Vi. Fresh crab combined with pork, wood ear, carrots, bean sprouts, ... creates a rich and delicious flavor that is hard to resist.

- Cat Hai lobster:

Also known as dragon lobster, a seafood with high nutritional value. The lobster meat is rich, fatty and rich in protein, and can be processed into many delicious dishes. When you come here, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy unique dishes such as: lobster rolled with raw vegetables, lobster stewed with shiitake mushrooms, lobster stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, grilled lobster with scallion oil, or delicious lobster with egg sauce,...

Sleeping in Cat Hai island

People often choose to stay at motels and hotels in the district center when coming to the island. Accommodation in Cat Hai district is very suitable for tourists to visit many nearby places such as Cat Ba island, Lan Ha bay. Traveling to Cat Hai island, below is a list of quality hotels you can consider:

- Cat Ba Eco Lodge

Address: Xuan Dam, Cat Hai district, Hai Phong.

Price from: 1,000,000 VND/night.

- Sea Pearl Cat Ba Hotel

Address: 219 1/4 Street, Cat Ba Town, Cat Hai, Hai Phong.

Price from: 2,000,000 VND/night.

Some notes when traveling to Cat Hai island

- To ensure safety, everyone should avoid going to the island at high tide. At this time, most of the breakwater will be submerged in water, the remaining part will be wet and covered with moss, making it very slippery and easy to fall. 

- The road to the island is also quite small, only enough space for 1-2 motorbikes, so walking will be much more convenient. 

Although not as famous as Cat Ba, Cat Hai Island still deserves a place in your travel notebook if you have the opportunity to visit Hai Phong. Hopefully, the experience of traveling to Cat Hai Island shared above will be really useful for you on your upcoming trip.

Source: https://asiaticatravel.com/travellers-eyes/visit-beautiful-cat-hai-island-in-hai-phong.asp