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

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 Travel - Considered 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/