The Women of Vietnam: A Photo Essay

The Women of Vietnam: A Photo Essay

Half the beauty of any country is in its people. Vietnam is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The people are genuine, kind and present. They live for today, and hold their communities tight. Vietnam’s in the midst of an exciting and historic time, with one of the fastest growing economies in East Asia and plans to be a developed country by 2020.

As a woman, I take special note of the role women play in societies I visit. After returning from Vietnam earlier this year, it was clear that the women are driving much of this financial change and globalization, but continue to face serious economic and social inequalities themselves. Travel to Vietnam

The Harsh Reality of Women Workers in Vietnam
This woman breaks for a few moments in a small alley to escape the harsh sun and busy streets of Hanoi.
About 60km southwest of Hanoi, a young woman was rowing myself and five other travelers in a rowboat down Yen River to Perfume Pagoda. Motorboats passed us frequently driven by men, while the rowboats keeping our pace were only rowed by women. Our tour guide confirmed that, in Vietnam, it is customary for women to row boats, while men drive boats powered by motors. There was no further thought or explanation. This is, simply, how it is.

The Women of Vietnam: A Photo Essay
A women rows down Yen River to pick up travelers from Perfume Pagoda.
I noticed this again during harvest time. Women occupied the fields, often with children at their side. They manually harvested the rice with large machetes and filled bags that, when full, were nearly equal to their weight. Once a group of women had harvested a few bags full of rice, a man would drive over on a motorbike with a flat wooden board attached to the back. Two women would heave the bags onto the board, and then secure it, for the man to tote away. MANGO CRUISE

women working in Vietnam
Harvest time in Phong Nha. Often communities harvest through the night and early morning to avoid the strong sun. This woman continues to harvest mid-day while other’s break.
Mothers were running hotels without daycare. They served as head chef for the eat-in meals that were provided to guests, and their children helped them prepare the vegetables and meat. Women sorted, cleaned and sold seafood at the fish markets. Women were messengers and tailors. They were entrepreneurs, and ran the afternoon markets. They were holding a smiling child in one arm, while offering passerbys a betel nut sample with the other. Women were running Vietnam.

Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market
Women sorting clothes in Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market.
After leaving the country, my curiosity about the female dynamic there continued to grow. Through some research, this is what I found:

According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) about 72 percent of women are in Vietnam’s labor force, far more than most countries around the globe.
According to the United Nations, women earn up to 50 percent less than men, often despite no significant differences in working hours, education level and seniority.
Female jobs are frequently more labor intensive than men’s, with a much higher proportion working outdoors.
Vietnamese men and women spend about the same amount of time on income-generating activities, but women spend twice as much time as men on household work. Consequently, the total number of hours worked by women is consistently greater than that of men, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN.
woman harvesting rice in Vietnam
The woman pictured had just harvested the two bags of rice behind her.
It’s no secret that gender equality is at the top of the global agenda. The UN is currently defining its Sustainable Development Goals, including achieving gender equality & empowering all women and girls, set to launch this September. As the global community continues to visit Vietnam, it is important that we recognize the country’s greatest contributors.

women smoking in Vietnam
It’s rare to see a woman smoke in Vietnam, and is looked down upon. Those who do smoke are generally older women.
Angela Altus is a photographer based in New York whose work captures the boldness necessary for commercial photography and the curiosity required for fine art and portraiture. Regardless of the project, Angela’s artistic philosophy centers around storytelling – in both extracting the narratives that already exist in her subjects and creating new, visual tales. Visit her website for more inspiring images.

Ha Giang Forest Festival

Although the Pu Peo is ethnic people in Ha Giang, they still preserved many liturgies and a folklore treasure. Along with other liturgies are held in the New Year, people prays dryad for the green of forest, security for people in the forest fest. Also, from this ceremony, the forest has the Pu Peo protected very well, especially, the sacred forest. They protect the forest in order to have water for farming and have wood for making house. Each year, on June 6th lunar calendar, people held this fest with the most solemn rites. North Vietnam tours

The fest takes place in the forbidden forest, the sorcerer faces in a big tree and bow in the ground in order to pray dryad for protecting their village. The Pu Peo always understands that preserving forest is keeping water.

All thing were displayed on the banana leaf forest, the altar was constructed of green bamboo with nearly 2 meters height, facing the mountain. The square glutinous rice pounded to a pulp to make cakes, sliced carefully. On each piece of rice is a small boiled egg. It the bottom of the altar, there has 2 chickens which are still alive. Around the altar is bottle wine and bowl. Besides, they have forced a female goat near the altar. The fest lasts several hours; sorcerer holds a fresh bamboo waving in all time of liturgy. Sometimes, he holds a dried gourd. The rite shows the respect of human divided into three stages. The first stage, chickens and goats still live, the second stage, the youngsters cut their neck and finally, people have meal in this place right. The families do not attend, they also were divided food. Halong Jasmine Cruise

During the day, with the jubilant atmosphere and the unity of ethnic groups in the village, the liturgy was implemented by the Pu Peo ethnic. The festival part is involved by whole people in the village. Having traditional sports such as: push sticks, tug, playing “ao”…attract a large number of ethnic groups. Besides, folk song programs will be presented by the Pu Peo ethnic. Jasmine Cruise

Harmony with nature, respect and protect natural forest as friend become a common sense of Pu Peo community, shown in each family, village. Each sacred forest is protected by people. It not only brings physical value and spiritual value but also contributes to protect and develop environment.

Ha Giang Praying for Rain Festival 

Praying for rain festival of the Lo Lo is common religious in agriculture. On the festival occasions, almost all activities of the Lo Lo are aimed at praying for rain. They wish the rain down to the Meo Vac field and they pray for a prosperous forever.

Every March, when the climate is dry and trees lack water, Lo Lo ethnic people in Meo Vac, Ha Giang Province often held a praying for rain festival. With typical rituals, the festival, handed down from generation to generation, is also an opportunity to meet one another.

Ha Giang Praying for Rain Festival 

The praying for rain festival is often held on the 15th, 17th, 19th of the 3rd lunar month. It is only organized when the weather is harsh or drought appears. Previously, rich people in villages used to pay for the cost of the festival but nowadays each villager contributes an item to the festival. Objects include a chicken, a dog or a kilogram of rice is taken to the house of a sorcerer or village chief. To have a successful praying for rain festival, the first procedure that cannot be avoided is to organize a ceremony to ask ancestral sorcerers for aid.

The procedure is quite easy, including a cup of water, incense and bamboo paper (a kind of papers that is used for sacrifices of the Lo Lo people). First of all, the sorcerer burns incense at the family ancestor’s altar and then, the cup of water and the paper are placed at a house corner. After that, the sorcerer starts worshipping. He covers the water cup with the bamboo paper; if the water in the cup is not absorbed or poured out of the cup, “permission is granted” and then, the praying for rain festival will be successful. Finally, the sorcerer burns the bamboo paper and the procedure is completed.

The Lo Lo ethnic people believe that after organizing the festival within three to nine days, it will rain. The festival is divided into two parts: the ritual and the festival. The ritual is made with the participation of villagers. Live objects such as dogs and chicken will be taken to the praying place and worshipped twice. After being used for worshipping for the first time, village’s boys will slaughter them and use the meat for worshipping again.

When the worship finishes, villagers drink the alcohol, eat the meat and dance. Beautiful Lo Lo girls dance in their traditional costumes weaved with colorful patterns.

The rain praying festival is a typical cultural activity bearing unique characteristics. The festival is an opportunity for villagers to pray for luck and show their faith in God

Da Lat – the city of flowers

The poetic city of Da Lat in Vietnam has a lot of charming name such as “city of love”, “City of thousands of pine trees”, “city of mysty”,… and the most impressive name is “city of flowers”.

Coming to Da Lat, you will be impressed by so many kinds of beautiful and gorgeous flowers. Flowers are in everywhere in the city, from large fields on the valleys to small corners or on the sides of the streets. Centre tours Vietnam
Da Lat Rose

Rose is not a rare flower in Vietnam, but roses in Da Lat are the most beautiful and preferable kind. The flower comes in all sorts of colors and shades, such as red, pink, velvet and yellow. Da Lat rose is grown as a agricultural products to export. MANGO CRUISE
Da lat city
Mimosa is a very popular flower in Da Lat city not only because it is found in anywhere in the city, but also because it has a special position in local people’s hearts. It has bright yellow flowers and leaves that are green with a silvery luster. The tree blossoms two or three times each year and flourishes during the sunny seasons. Da Lat has two types of mimosa trees: long and short-leafed.the flower has a sweet scent and be considered as the symbol of secret love. Jasmine Cruise
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Asteraceae flowers blossom all year round. There are more than 20 species of asteraceae in Da Lat, such as san-souci, hortensia, pansy, violette, immortelle, arum, etc. Lots of them have origin from Western countries or Africa, but many others also come from Vietnam. Some of them are cultivate on field to provide for market, and others are wildflowers which naturally grow on streets or pine tree hills or along the streams.

Da Lat – the city of flowers

Another unique species in Da Lat is purple flamboyant (flame tree). Instead of having red color like its brothers in northern Vietnam, the flower is purple. In the end of winter and through the spring, many streets in the city are covered up by a romantic purple of flame trees.
Orchid is another Da Lat attraction. Named “queen of the world of flowers,” the orchid is a common sight wherever you go in Da Lat. Among the world’s 100,000 species of orchids, Viet Nam already has many of which grow in Da Lat. Da Lat grows all four types of orchids found worldwide, including those on other plants and trees as parasites, those on high rocks and cliffs. Those are in leaves and mud. Those are on other kinds of vegetation.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Lang Biang and Da Lat have a very interesting kind of orchid, Lan hai. In Vietnamese, “hai” is a beautifully embroidered shoe that used to be worn by noble ladies. The flower is so named as it has the shape of a “hai”. It originates from the species P. Delnatii. The flower received attention and praise at an international orchid exhibition in 1995 in Tokyo, Japan.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
A wild but beautiful flower which symbolize for Langbiang Highland is Japanese sunflower (or wild sunflower). On October or November every year, this glamorous flower blossom on roadsides, slopes, tea hills, pine forests, covering the whole city with a bright yellow.
Cultivating flower is a key sector in Da Lat’s agriculture. And these flowers make the city more stunning and shining. Moreover, thousands kinds of wild flower contribute to the outstanding beauty of Da Lat.
Da Lat – the city of flowers
Flowers in Da Lat can be found in every corners of the city, in the forests, pine hills, tea hills, on the roadsides, valleys, stream banks or in cultivated fields,… There are also a lot of flower parks and flower gardens in the city where a lot of species of flowers are planted and designed on purpose to decorate the city. And each year, Da Lat held Flower Festival to display and promote local flowers as a product.

Top fruits must try in Vietnam

Vietnam is located in tropical zone and famous with so many kinds of fruits. There are ten kinds of fruits not only delicious and popular, but also meet the criteria for export which both foreigners and Vietnamese should try.
If you are in Vietnamespecially in durian season you should try to enjoy it for yourself.It’s easy to find durian in any markets or supermarkets of Viet Nam.The first suggestion is that you should not eat too much. Traditional beliefs say that durian has warming properties. If you eat too much at once it can heat up your body but its taste is so good. Vietnam tours private

Especially if you have any chances to visit Vinh Long, remember to try Durian Ri6. Ri6 durian of the southern province of Vinh Long is praised to be the best durian variety in Vietnam. It is named Ri6 after the name of Mr. Sau Ri, who created this variety in 1990. It has a distinctively bright yellow color, similar to the intense coloration of a Musang King durian in Malaysia. The flesh is thick and fibrous, with a strong egg-flavor that reminds me of many Thai varieties. Halong bay tours Vietnam

Mangosteen

If the mighty durian is king, the mangosteen is known as the queen of fruits. The mangosteen's semi-firm exterior shell may not be much to look at, but the soft, delicate flesh of the white interior hooks people on the first bite.

It can’t be denied that Lai Thieu Mangosteen is the best mangosteen in Vietnam with thick peel, white and sweet-and-sour segments made people remember forever. In the feudal time, Mangosteen was compared as a noble fruit and used in rich families as well as offered for Royal Family.

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Mangosteen is widely available in juice form. Mangosteen juice products typically include the fruit, rind and pulp of the fruit, which contains compounds called xanthones. Although some research indicate that xanthones may offer certain benefits, the health effects of mangosteen have yet to be extensively studied.

Top fruits must try in Vietnam

In Southeast Asia including Viet Nam, mangosteen rind has been used for medicinal purposes for generations. According to many theories, mangosteen rind was used to make a tea for such conditions as diarrhea, bladder infections and gonorrhea. An ointment made from the rind was applied to skin rashes. Proponents claim that mangosteen can also help with the following health problems such as allergies, anxiety, cancer, depression or even high blood pressure. In addition, some proponents suggest that mangosteen may slow the aging process, aid in Alzheimer's prevention, increase energy, preserve eye health, stimulate the immune system, improve bone health and protect against heart disease.

Dragon fruit 3
Officially known as the pitaya, the dragon fruit is actually native to Latin America. It is an extremely beautiful fruit that has dazzling flowers and an intense shape and color. The dragon fruit is usually a dark red color, although some types of this fruit are pink or yellow. The skin of the dragon fruit is a thin rind. The skin is usually covered in scales, and the center of the fruit is made up of a red or white, sweet tasting pulp.

Dragon fruit is generally is a nutritious fruit that is a good source of vitamins and minerals.There are no reported side effects in consuming dragen fruit.Dragon fruit is safe for consumption even by pregnant and breast feeding mothers.

Binh Thuan is a province famous with growing dragon fruit. Binh Thuan’s dragon fruit is one of favorite fruits in some Asian countries like Malaysia, Singapore, China or Vietnam.

Pomelo Fresh Pomelo citrus  Fruit
There are several kinds of pomelo regionally famous for their taste and there are some famous kinds Pomelo in Vietnam like Nam Roi, Phuc Trach pomelo. Green peel pomelo is a specialty of the southern province of Ben Tre.This variety is planted in My Thanh An in Ben Tre city and Mo Cay district.Green peel pomelo won the first prize at a fruit competition held by the Southern Region Institute for Fruit Research.

This fruit is eaten fresh or is use to make juice. The pulp can be use to make salads and the peel is used to make candies; citrus peel is often used for flavoring.Pomelo is really a golden mine of vitamins. The fruit is abundant with vitamin C, beta-carotene as well as the B vitamins. Additionally it is a resource of folic acid which is required for younger ladies to guarantee the health of upcoming baby. Furthermore, pomelo includes a large amount of potassium which is great for our heart. Brand-new research has shown that liminoids present in pomelo as well as other citrus fruits avoid cancer cells from divining much better than chemical medications.

Longan 5
Longan, also known as “dragons eye” (because of a white eye shaped mark on the pit that appears as a pupil in the large eye) are soft and smaller than lychee fruits. They are brown in colour and are referred as little brothers of lychee fruits. Longans whose scientific term is Dimocarpus longan, originated in China and later spread across the globe and is now widely cultivated in Thailand, India and in several other countries of Asia. Longan is available abundantly in the summer season and can be consumed both raw or as dried fruits.

The longan grows in many provinces in the North. There are many varieties of longans. The most renowned variety of longan is the cage longan of Hung Yen Province. There are varieties that have a thick pulp and a very sweet taste called pulp longan. Water longans have a thin watery pulp and a fresh sweet taste. In the South, there is the longan of Chau Thanh (Dong Thap Province), which is fairly renowned. This variety has a watery pulp, a very sweet taste, a perfumed scent, and small black seeds, which is why it is called nhan tieu (pepper grain longan).
The longan is a tropical fruit rich in nutrients. It is used in the preparation of sweet lotus seed soups. A longan that has been rid of its black kernel then dried over a fire is called long nhan (literally: dragon’s eyes); it is one of the tonics used in the recipes of traditional medicine.

Litchi 6
Litchi is a small fruit with a sweet smell and taste, which is available in the summer. It is a small fruit packed with healthy nutrients. It has rough skin outside while contains juicy flesh inside. It is used as medicine in China.

With favorable natural conditions, Luc Ngan hilly gardens are strong in growing fruit trees, making it the country's largest litchi producer.The soil here is very suitable for planting litchis, hence producing fruits with deeply green leaves and round canopies of branches. Especially, bunches of red-ripened litchis with fine skins, very small seeds, much sweet meat, a purely fragrant taste made litchi a great delicacy of Northern Vietnam.Luc Ngan litchi products have been gaining popularity not only across the country but also have been exported to many foreign markets.

Lychee is a highly rich nutrient fruit. It contains a high amount of soluble fiber known as pectin which is beneficial to protect from colon cancer.  It contains a good amount of antioxidants that protect the body from carcinogens. Carcinogens are free radicals that are produced in the body due to oxidative stress. So lychee is effective to protect from cancer, ageing, arthritis and degenerative disease. Also, it is a great source of potassium which is important for maintaining blood pressure. Along with these, it contains a high amount of other nutrients that promotes health.

Mango 7
Mango plants are grown in southern provinces. Mangoes are divided into several kinds, known locally as Xoai Cat, xoai Tuong, xoai Voi, xoai Xiem…Hoa Loc mango is one of the most well known varieties of mango under cultivation in the Mekong river delta, for its aroma and sweetness. Hoa Loc mango has presently grown on large scale, in many provinces of the Mekong river delta like Tien Giang, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Dong Thap, and so on. Mango Transplantation and seedling selection, application of modern techniques are done with, aiming at raising the quality and productivity.

Mango is one of the exotic fruits in the world with great health benefits. Some of the health benefits from mangoes in baby food includes protection of eyesight, fights microbial infections, easily digestible, improvement in brain development and many more.

Rambutan 8
The Rambutan, also known unofficially as Hairy Cherry, comes originally from the Malaysia peninsular, where the name Rambutan came from the Malay word 'rambut' for hair. Today, a lot of rambutan is grown in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta area. The fruit is about 3-4 cm in diameter and has soft fleshy hair over the entire surface. The peel turns from green to yellow to red as the fruit ripens. To eat: Partially cut through the skin or break open with a thumbnail and pull apart. There is a hard seed inside. Once peeled the fruit yields a flesh that is white and firm; the taste is sweet with a touch of acidity and is very refreshing.

Rambutan grows in large bunches on trees that can be as high as 20 m. A rambutan tree has broad foliage and many branches. In the southern provinces, the tree yields fruit at the beginning of the rainy season. Rambutan season lasts until the end of the rainy season, that means from May to October. The most famous rambutan fruit is grown in Binh Hoa Phuoc Village (Long Ho District, Vinh Long Province).

Rambutan fruit contains carbohydrate, protein, fat, phosphorus, iron, calcium and vitamin C. This plant can be used as a medicinal fruit and have benefits for health such asReduce Body Fat, Make skin softer or Hair care.

Mandarin orange 9
Mandarin is a group name for a class of oranges with thin, loose peel, which have been dubbed "kid-glove" oranges. The mandarin tree may be much smaller than that of the sweet orange or equal in size, depending on variety.

Mandarin oranges are a popular citrus fruit of the orange family. They are often referred to as tangerines. The fruit is a native of Southeast Asia. It has a thin skin that is easy to peel. This makes it an ideal snack for children. Due to its nutritional benefits, the fruit is widely recognized as ideal for inclusion in a healthy diet. The mandarin is a good source of vitamins A and C. It contains calcium, magnesium and potassium. The fruit is also a good source of dietary fiber.

Ly Nhan has many kinds of sweet and well-smelt mandarin oranges but the best kind is the Quyt Huong (Perfume Mandarin) which has a distinct aroma. Previously, it was usually dedicated to the king. Ly Nhan is a district locating along the bank of the Red River . It has good soil that is advantageous for agricultural development.Unlike mandarins of other localities, the shape of Quyt Ly Nhan  is flattish. Their peels are very crisp, thin and have apricot yellow when ripe. Like oranges peels, mandarins peels have tiny otto which create a distinct perfume of mandarin.

Top 5 Foods in Hue

1. Bún bò 
30,000VND @5 Nguyễn Du, Huế

Now what is the first thing one should eat in Hue? Can’t really go wrong with the most famous dish of this city: Bun Bo Hue. Following the recommendation of a local friend who is also an expert in Hue eateries, we arrived at the small bun bo stand in a tiny street; typical Hue style. The place was packed with people just exactly what we had expected and we even had to wait a bit to get a table.

When we thought about eating bun bo in Hue, we expect it to be really spicy and hot. To our surprise, the steamy bowl of bun bo we tasted was not spicy at all but rather, very mild and naturally sweet. It was so good but at the same time quite different from what we usually have in Danang. This is why we should eat a dish at its birth place: your previous concept of a dish and the real dish itself might be two very different versions. Halong bay tours Vietnam

Top 5 Foods in Hue

2. Bánh khoái 
20,000VND (each) @6 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Huế

The restaurant we went to have bánh khoái is very famous locally, it’s been running for decades. Basically bánh khoái is a smaller version of bánh xèo, served with a moderately similar sauce and is eaten without the Danang’s “wrap and roll” style. It is crispier than bánh xèo and instead of pork toppings, it has toppings made from chả along with shrimp and bean sprouts. An interesting savory snack, but for 20kVND each – it was quite expensive. Mekong river tours Vietnam

3. Hue’s ‘bánh’ medley (bánh bèo, bánh nậm, bánh bột lọc…)
~80,000VND (whole tray) @Hàng Me -12 Võ Thị Sáu, Huế
Then it was time to visit another popular dish in Danang but also has Hue origins: the famous combo of different kinds of bánh (cakes). One major difference of the Hue version, or the version of the place we went to, was that the bánh nậm and bánh bột lọc here are wrapped in lá dong (phrynium leaves), instead of banana leaves like Da Nang’s versions. As a result, the cakes inside have a very unique scent. Another thing that caught my attention was that the dried shrimp toppings here are exceptionally well done and are not something one could easily find in Da Nang. Centre Vietnam tours

4. Bún hến, Cơm hến
8000VND @Nhỏ – 28 Phạm Hồng Thái, Huế (morning)
Bún hến (tiny clams vermicelli salad) is another authentic Hue dish that is very hard to find elsewhere. It is the Hue equivalent of Danang’s bún mắm with tiny clams (hến) instead of pork, fried pork skin, lots of greens, herbs and shrimp paste is used instead of anchovy fish sauce. And just like bún mắm, the dish is very cheap (only 8,000VND) but tasted insanely good.

Cơm hến (tiny clams with rice and soup) is quite similar to bún hến but with a bit of soup. Bún hến is better in my opinion.

5. Bánh ướt thịt quay
100,000VND (2 persons) @Bà Sửu – National Route, 25km from Hue (if you travel from Da Nang to Hue, the restaurant is on your right, after you’ve passed Truồi bridge)

We had this dish at a very famous stall on the national route between Hue and Danang. Basically it was just rice rolls (bánh cuốn, or bánh ướt like how we call it in the central region) but the real shining star here is the accompanied roasted pork. It was so crispy and soft and juicy and had a really really nice smell. This eatery is favourited by many long distance travelers along the national route.

Top 5 Things to do in Danang

Most travellers tend skip Danang on their way to Hoi An however the city is filled with great restaurants, bars and plenty of sights to see to warrant a few days stay. While the city has gone through a surge of tourism of sorts with 5 star resorts popping up along the coast, the city still remains a charming escape from the touristy Old Quarter of Hoi An. We’ve listed our top 5 list of things to do in Danang. Centre Vietnam travel

A windy road on the Hai Van Pass on the road from Danang to Hue.

HAI VAN PASS
This windy stretch of road was made famous by Top Gear UK’s Jeremy Clarkson in 2008 when he proclaimed it, “a deserted ribbon of perfection—one of the best coast roads in the world.” While most traffic from Danang to Hue use the Hai Van Tunnel, intrepid motorbike riders willing to throw caution to the wind and head to the twisting switchback filled road will be rewarded with breathtaking views of turquoise waters and lush mountainsides. JAHAN CRUISE

Local insight: Make sure to stop at the top of the pass to see the brick gate built by Emperor Minh Mang in the 19th century.

Top 5 Things to do in Danang

A statue of a buddha sits in a lush garden at the Marble Mountains in Danang

MARBLE MOUNTAIN
A stairway of 156 steps takes you to the summit of Thuy Son mountain which is dotted with pagodas and caves filled with sculptures and engravings dating back to the Cham Empire. If you aren’t interested in taking the staircase, take the elevator for VND30,000. Jasmine Cruise

Local insight: Direct marble extraction is forbidden in the area and all of the marble is shipped in from neighbouring provinces.

A no swimming sign sits on the Danang coastline

DANANG COASTLINE
One can’t mention Danang without mentioning it’s vast and pristine coastline. My Khe beach is now dominated by a string of 5 star resorts but if you are looking to escape the crowds, head to Red Beach which is generally deserted throughout the day.

Local insight: Those looking to catch a wave should head to Danang during the months of December to February.

The Goddess of Mercy statue sits in the Linh Ung Pagoda in Danang

GODDESS OF MERCY
Standing at 69.7 meters in height, the stark white Goddess of Mercy statue can be seen for miles. Located on the side of Monkey Mountainin the Linh Ung Pagoda, this statue has 17 levels inside, each with 21 Buddha idols.

Local insight:  For stunning vistas of Danang bay, head to Vong Hai Dai street just to the right of the pagoda.

The temples at My Son

MY SON
Located 69km’s southwest of Danang, this cluster of abandoned Hindu temples are well worth the drive. While not as magnificent as the Angkor temple structures in Cambodia, these ancient ruins of the Champa Kingdom are not to be missed. Nestled in a lush valley, the area is divided into 10 main groups depending on the era or divinity honoured.

Local insight: It can get busy around 9am so try to leave early to miss the crowds.

I hope you enjoyed our top 5 things to do in Danang! Make sure to check back with us for more great travel tips.

Vietnam safe country travel statistics must knows

Yes. In General, Vietnam is a friendly and safe country to travel both alone and with your family and friends. By using common sense and awareness you will minimize your chances of encountering any troubles in your travels.

Crime Rate
Like many countries in South East Asia, Vietnam has a high crime rate. But, the majority of crime in Vietnam relates to petty theft such a bag and jewellery snatching, pick pocketing, theft of items such as cell phones, wallets and unattended motorbikes. Caution needs to be taken when visiting heavily populated tourist areas such as Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, Hoi An or any crowded areas where thieves can easily snatch your belongings and run. Many unsuspecting tourists have lost their belongings to the swift actions of a thief and an accomplice on the back of a motorbike. These thefts usually take place whilst the victim is located roadside. PANDAW CRUISE

Comparative Crime Rates By Country:

The table above compares the rate of homicide in 6 different countries around the world. As documented, Vietnam has a relatively low homicide rate of just 1.6 per 100,000 of the population. This is comparable to developed countries such as Australia (1.0)  and France (1.1). According UNODC source the United States Of America Homicide Data recorded (4.7) Homicides per 100,000 in 2012. Alova Gold Cruise

Violent Crime

Vietnam safe country travel statistics must knows

Violent crime against tourists in Vietnam is quite rare and should only be considered as a moderate risk factor whilst traveling through most regions of Vietnam. But like anywhere in the world, we suggest that you should travel with caution. To minimise your probability of encountering troubles, we highly recommend you keep valuables such as jewellery, watches, cell phones, wallets, purse or money out of sight. Splendours of Vietnam and Cambodia (17 days,16 nights)

What To Do If You Are A Victim Of Crime In Vietnam?

Vietnam is now a very popular tourist destination with millions of new visitors every year. Overall you will find traveling in Vietnam safe and non threatening. If you do happen to be a victim of crime or theft, the best thing to do is contact your hotel/hostel manager who can put you in contact with the local Police or hospital if needed. We suggest you remain cautious and vigilant, but don’t let this stop you from enjoying the adventure and beauty Vietnam has to offer.

Top 7 things to see in Rach Gia

How To Get There?
By plane
Rach Gia Airport serves domestic flights to and from Phu Quoc Island and Ho Chi Minh City operated by Vietnam Airlines. The flights are served on a daily basis.

By bus 
Buses and minibuses connect Rach Gia with the nearest big cities of the country:
To/ from Ha Tien: 2,5 hours, $2,5 (50,000 VND);
To/ from Hon Chong: 2,5 hours, $2,5 (50,000 VND);
To/ from Can Tho: 3 hours, $3,5 (75,000 VND);
To/ from Long Xuyen: 1,5 hours, $1,5 (30,000 VND);
To/ from Ho Chi Minh City: 6 hours, $8 (165,000 VND).
You can buy a ticket at the bus station. If there’s an opportunity, it is recommended to do it in advance, as due to lack of the transport connection, the tickets may be sold out in a few hours before departure. You can also do it with the help of reliable travel companies. Mekong river cruise

By boat
There are regular hydrofoils cruising between Phu Quoc and such destinations as Rach Gia. One way trip from/to Rach Gia lasts approximately for 2,5 hours and the ticket should costs about $15 (350,000 VND). There’s also a discount for senior (above 60 years old) and disabled people, as well as for children under the age of 11. The timetable of arrivals and departures is available on the webpage of the Superdong transfer company. Halong bay cruise

Top 7 things to see in Rach Gia

Thing To See At Rach Gia
Tam Quan Gate
Tam Quan gate, or as it is also called, Three Entrance Gate, is a true symbol of Rach Gia and is considered to be an entrance to the city. This is a beautiful triple arch bearing the traditional elements of Vietnamese architecture. Travel to Vietnam

Nguyen Trung Truc Temple
The temple is dedicated to Nguyen Trung Truc who was a leader of the resistance movement against the newly arrived French in the end of 19th century. Today this is one of the biggest attractions of Rach Gia and an important religious destinations for the entire region.

Tam Bao Pagoda
This is another destination of Rach Gia with a beautiful story behind. It was built in the beginning of 19th century by the Vietnamese Emperor Gia Long to honour a local woman who aided him after the Tay Son Rebellion. It is surrounded by a quite and cozy garden with numerous sculptures and is definitely a great place to spend some time and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

Phat Lon Pagoda (Khmer pagoda)
This is an amazing Cambodian Buddhist pagoda, which name is translated as Big Buddha. Even nowadays the majority of the monks living here are the ethnic Khmers. It has a magnificent architecture and zen garden in the courtyard with an over hundred-year old tree originated from Sri Lanka.

Kien Giang Museum 
The museum is housed in one of the most ancient and beautiful buildings in the city. It has an outstanding and sophisticated exterior design with traditional oriental elements inside of the building. The museum is exposing a big collection of war memoirs, historical photos and cultural relics.

Local Specialities 
Are you a foodie? Then probably, you will enjoy your visit to Rach Gia, Being a port town, it has a big choice of sea specialities as well as traditional Vietnamese dishes. The most popular places to eat and drink among locals and travelers are Thanh Binh, Hai Au, Ao Dai Moi,Valentine, which also offer sometimes different types of entertainment like karaoke or sport events.

Rach Soi Market
Market is a right place to go, if you want to explore people’s everyday life, local culture and of course, buy cheap, fresh and exotic fruits, vegetables and other local specialities. The biggest one in Rach Gia is the Rach Soi market, located close to the port of the town.

Top 7 activities in flooding days

All travelers should be aware that annual monsoon season is from 1 September until mid-December at least! Great care by all visitors should be taken during extreme rains & when there are strong onshore North East winds during lunar calendar days close to 1st or 14th – this is when danger of flooding in Hoi An and surrounding areas are highest. In truth, there is no bad time to visit Hoi An. Even it is unusual , but you will get a special experience that not many tourist have.  There are some activities for those day. Danang – Hue – Hoian 4 days

1. Do a special trip around town.

When the old town is under water, it has a unique and special charm. If you are an adventurous guy, just take the life vest, pick a good and reliable boat and start your trip around the town enjoying one of the highlight of your trip. Remember do not take the old or ruin boat, and life vest is necessary item to you. If you want to walk with the water around, you can get some plastic boots from local market or local shops. They are better for your toes! Avoiding the low lands, An Hoi  and Cam Nam Ward are the places that you should not go which are seperated from other areas of Hoian. MEKONG EYES

2. Café and Bar

Unfortunately, most of the good bars located in the town, and most of them are under water when it is flooding. Most shops in the old town close for sercured reasons. In the day time, you can visit some nice coffee shops in the high lands. Café Shop in Hoian historic hotel
This shop is located on the left side of Hoian hotel, nice coffee, good environment and you won’t be bothered by vendors. Pelican Cruise

Top 7 activities in flooding days

Google Coffee shop: located at 10 Phan Chau Trinh street, this one mostly open because of its high location. Serve different types of local coffee, soft drink and good ginger tea (so good with this weather)
Nep Café 62- Phan Chau Trinh street: another nice coffee shop with amazing decoration!

3. Restaurant

We need to accept that most of nice restaurants in town are not available. So finding some nicer and more local one will be our solution.

Madame Phuong Bread  - 2B Phan Chau Trinh.

Famous for the recomendation of Anthony Bourdain with his show, this is one of the best banh my in Vietnam with terrific gravy that they put on the sandwiches. Luckily, it does open in the flooding days. You should go to this shop as early as possible because most of the locals go their for their food too.

If you are a vegan, or just want a quiet place for finishing your book, just go to Minh Hien Vegetarian restaurant, one of the best ones in Hoian. Located in a high area, no worry, this is our option for flooding day. Start out with one of the set menus (I prefer the first one, for one person). You get to sample delicious veg versions of Hoi An’s local specialities, including white rose dumplings, cao lau noodles, fried spring rolls, and wonton.

4. Go to Danang

The town is flooding, so let discover some places in Danang that not sinked into water. Marble Mountain, Cham Museum and Linh Ung pagoda with big statue of Laddy Bodhisattva or Goddess of Mercy will make your boring days gone! And there are more restaurants in Danang open in this kind of weather. If you have kids, they won’t get bored with many shopping and entertainment centers open in Da Nang.

5.  Join Foodtour

Event haft of Hoian is under water, there are plenty of local places that you don’t know (and don’t try without guidance of local buddies). Hence, by taking part in a custom foodtour, this is a great time to learn about the culture, local life and different things of locals. I’m sure, this one will brighten your day.

6. Get your tailor made clothes.

Most of the tailor shops are still open in flood season. Just hang around and pick some tailor shops you like and get your dress or shirt,… made. Some good ones are Yaly Couture, A Dong Silk with the highest price in town but best quality. The other recommendation ones are Mr. Xe, Bao Khanh Silk, Thu Thuy Silk, Kimmy,…

A tip when shopping: avoid tailor recommendations from unreliable sources. You will most likely encounter locals offering to tell you the best tailors.The prices you will be quoted by the tailor shop will be padded with this extra cost, which means you will probably pay about 40% or maybe 50% more if you take their recommendation than you would otherwise. So be wise!
 
7. Watch DVD or reading books.

If your heart is set on a lazy day ensconced in your room, check out some DVD shop or bookshops in Hoi An, buys some discs or books and enjoy your days indoors. Legends DVD shop on Phan Chu Trinh Street has the best selection of movies and box set series for a dollar a disc. For those who love reading, grab a book from Randy’s book exchange over on Cam Nam Island.

Top 7 Things to do in Halong Bay Vietnam

Many travellers to majestic Halong Bay spend a day cruising the emerald waters admiring the mysterious limestone rocks that rise up majestically. But there is so much more to do in Halong Bay such as kayaking, exploring the caves and hiking on the islands.

Over 3,000 amazing islands rise up from the Gulf of Tonkin, some with their own caves, beaches and inlets. It’s this stunning and mystic landscape that earns Halong Bay its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994.  Many visitors spend a day or two on a traditional junk, bobbing along on the serene waters, watching everyday Vietnamese life going by. North Vietnam tours

Spot the Wildlife and Birdlife on Cat Ba Island

There are many larger islands within Halong Bay, including Cat Ba Island, which is the largest and home to a lush national park, teeming with over 30 different mammal species and 70 bird species. The Cat Ba National Park offers fantastic opportunities for hiking and maybe spotting the rare golden-headed ‘Cat Ba Langur’ monkey. The primate is thought to number less than 100 and is officially the most engendered monkey in the world, despite local conservation efforts. The park covers both land and water and keen walkers can spot giant oriental squirrels, wild boar, the civet cat and deer. Bird species include cuckoos, hornbills and hawks. Try climbing the peak viewing tower which is a two hour round trip, cool off at one of the many pristine beaches and take a boat trip over to Monkey Island. Pelican Cruise

Chill out on Lan Ha Bay’s beautiful beaches

Whilst Halong Bay has many inlets and caves, it doesn’t have many real beaches, except at Lan Ha Bay, which has around 100 deliciously sandy stretches of beach. Pitch up for a few days to take in the stunning views, explore the floating villages and enjoy rock climbing, scuba diving, swimming and kayaking. Or simply chill out on one of the beaches and watch daily life go by.

• MANGO CRUISE

Walk through the Cave of Wonders

Don your most comfortable walking shoes and climb through the Dau Go Caves, aka the Cave of Wonders. Lit up in various colours, the caves systems offer an insight into the intriguing natural rock formations. The caves offer respite from the fierce hit with their eerie atmosphere, where natural daylight rarely pokes through the rocks.

Top 7 Things to do in Halong Bay Vietnam

Spend a day kayaking in Halong Bay

Slow the pace down somewhat with a kayaking trip, which allows you to meander through the giant limestone rocks. It’s a great opportunity to get away from the crowds, explore some of the quieter caves, inlets and beaches. Paddle to Ti Top Island, admire the views and hone your kayaking skills in a unique location. Find out for yourself why Halong Bay is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature!

Traverse the Sung Sot Grottoes

In the heart of Halong Bay are the Sung Sot Caves, which are also known as the ‘Surprise Grottoes’. Located on Bo Hon Island, these are widely touted as both the widest and best cave systems in Halong Bay. You’ll take a short hike up to the grottoes through forest and the caves themselves are separated into two natural sections. Admire the forms of the stalactites and the rock formations.

Try hiking on Ban Sen Island

To really get off the beaten tourist trail, try a hiking adventure on Ban Sen Island. The island is thickly forested and just about uninhabited which makes for a peaceful getaway! Take a ferry to Quan Lan from Cai Rong to enjoy your own little piece of paradise. Hire a local guide for the day who will regale you with stories of local folklore including mysterious monster sightings!

Take a Halong Bay Cruise

The ubiquitous cruise on Halong Bay is an absolute must-do! Opt for a traditional junk for that really authentic experience. And to really get into the local spirit, opt to stay for several days, sleeping overnight on the calm emerald waters. You’ll pass floating villages where families, livestock and pets live and trade as part of their daily life. You can also stop off at swimming and snorkelling spots.

Top 3 places to visit in Danang

Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass is located along the Hai Van mountain side, between Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang city. It is the highest and the most beautiful pass in Vietnam (about 500 meters above sea level), and it is the final mountain belonging to Truong Son. Hai Van Pass is also known as 'Cloud Pass' with one side is mountain and other is sea. In the 'Phu Bien Tap Luc', Le Quy Don said that: Hai Van is the bound of Thuan Hoa and Quang Nam. Centre Vietnam tours

At the 13th century, this place belongs to Champa dynasty. In the top of the Pass, the trail of ancestors still retains. The entrance looks to Thua Thien with three words “Hai Van Quan”, the entrance look Quang Nam with the words “Thien Ha De Nhat Hung Quan” (The King Le Thanh Ton granted for this place). According to folk, people said that when Nguyen Hoang Lord protected Quang Nam, Hai Van Pass had a little people passing and it is also the place for wild animal. After the King Minh Mang had been throne, he also visited the beauty of Hai Van Pass and built stone entrance in the top of Pass with the words “De Nhat Hung Quan” (the most beautiful pass). This stone entrance is still on the top of the pass and was recognized as national historical relic. Tourists can contemplate the entire of Da nang city, Son Tra mount.Hai Van Pass is an ideal destination for tourists. From Da nang, along the national highway no.01A to the North. Here, tourists also see Tien Sa, Son Tra peninsula, Cham Islands… and the sand-bank. Coming to Hai Van, you will be sunk into natural space and historical trails of ancient Vietnamese. Jasmine Cruise – Halong Bay

Top 3 places to visit in Danang

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda
Linh Ung pagoda is located on the hill, with the shape of turtle. Linh Ung pagoda in Son Tra peninsula was inaugurated, it is considered not only as the first processing of Vietnam Buddha in the 21st century but also as the place that gathers quintessence of the earth. PANDAW CRUISE

Linh Ung pagoda faces to The Eastern sea, on the left is Cham Islands, on the right is Hai Van Mountain. Passing the fall and rise of time and history, Linh Ung-Bai But pagoda was built and standing on Son Tra Mountain like the evidence for the combination between belief and nation. It marked the development of Vietnam Buddhism at the 21st century.

Linh Ung-Bai But pagoda is considered as one of the biggest pagoda in Da Nang city in both of scale and architecture. This pagoda has a combination between modern style and traditional style. The main area has a large capacity and it is the most solemn place.

Especially, in Linh Ung-Bai But pagoda, there has Guan Yin statue that is considered as the highest statue in Vietnam (67 meters height approximately 30 stories). This statue put its back to the mountain, faces to the sea. Above the Guan Yin statue is Buddhahood statue with the high of 2 meters.

From here, you can contemplate the whole city, mountain and Son Tra peninsula. In addition, from the distance, you will see Ngu Hanh Son Mountain along with white sand-bank. The beautiful landscape creates a unique impression that you cannot find in other place. It can be said that Linh Ung-Bai But pagoda was built in the tourism relic of the city- Son Tra peninsula tourism place. The pagoda becomes to famous destination for tourist and spiritual place for the Da nang.

Marble Mountain (Ngu Hanh Son)
Marble Mountain belongs to Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son, is far about 7 kilometers from Da nang city to the Southeast. Ngu Hanh Son is located on the yellow sand - bank with 2 kilometers length, 800 meters width. The kind of stone in Ngu Hanh Son has various colors and it is the source of sculpture and arts.

Ngu Hanh Son includes 5 mountains: Kim Son (Metal Mountain), Thuy Son (Water Mountain), Moc Son (Wood Mountain), Hoa Son (Fire Mountain) and Tho Son (Earth Mountain). Number No.05 is the important number in orient and 5 mountains contain unique sense.

Metal Mountain (Kim Son) is located in the Southeast, on the bank of Co Co River. Travelling by boat, tourists can contemplate the beautiful scenery. Ben Ngu, the place, the Kings often stayed each time come to Ngu Hanh Son. Today, it did not exist; however, people can see one ironwood pillar near the Quan Am pagoda.

Wood Mountain (Moc Son)
Moc Son is located near the sea, Thuy Son Islet to the East. The East and South is sand cave, the North is fields and the West is villages. Although it has the name “Wood Mountain”, it has fewer trees. The top mountain is divided into cog-shape as cock spur, so that it also has the name “Mong Ga” Mountain (cock spur mountain).
On the mountain, there has no pagoda; it only has white marble stone as the shape of people. The local people often call “Co Mu” or Guan Yin. In addition, there has small cave named Ba Trung Mountain. In two wars in Vietnam, local people and revolutionary cadre often used this place as shelter.

Top 10 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Face up to the past
Vietnam's war-torn history can't – and shouldn't – be ignored. Ho Chi Minh City Museum has many informative exhibitions, and explains the country's bloody past through photographs, artefacts and memorabilia. It's sensitively done, without glossing over the atrocities, and (rather ironically) is housed in the Gia Long Palace, where Ngo Dinh Diem spent his final hours in power before his assassination in 1963.

The War Remnants Museum is a more grisly – but equally essential – reminder of local atrocities. From eerie bomb remnants and first-person accounts by war veterans to a bloodied guillotine and photographs of horrific napalm burns, this is a chilling reminder of life not-too-long ago. MEKONG EYES

2. Dress up for Lam Son Square
This well-heeled area has always been one of the city's most prestigious addresses: today, it's the place to head for a night of culture, or a spot of shopping amongst the city's affluent residents.

You can't miss the Hotel Continental in the heart of Lam Son Square (its high-maintenance glossy finish marks it out from the crowd): this was the favoured spot of French high society, and it's still possible to sip cocktails in the hotel terrace, just as they did. South Vietnam tours

If you're after a more meaningful cultural experience, make a beeline for the Municipal Theatre – a lavish 100-year-old building that regularly hosts local and touring dance, opera and theatre companies.

Top 10 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

3. Reunification Palace
When the French left in 1954, Ngo Dinh Diem constructed the Independence Palace to demonstrate his country's strength, but it was pulled down after an attempt to assassinate him. The replacement building was later renamed Reunification Palace after the fall of Saigon in the 1970s.

Much of the palace remains unchanged since the 70s, and although the shiny rosewood-clad meeting rooms and musty library are interesting, perhaps the most fascinating relic resides in the garden. Here, you'll find the tank that crashed through the gates of the palace on 30 April 1975, signalling the fall of the Saigon regime. Bai Tho Junk – a romantic experience

4. Jade Emperor Pagoda
If you only have time to see one Vietnamese pagoda, make it this one: built in the 1900s by Taoists and Buddhists, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is simultaneously spiritual and awe-inspiring in scale and ambition.

Ornate carved panels and intricate deities line the interior, flanked by lotus flower and fruit offerings and cloaked in a cloud of incense smoke. Head upstairs, and out onto the equally embellished roof terrace, where you'll find a statue of Quan Am (the goddess of mercy) which overlooks a sacred bodhi tree in the courtyard.

5. Wander Dong Khoi
Dong Khoi, a lively stretch of shops and bars, spans from Notre Dame Cathedral to the Saigon River. Visit Dong Khoi for its stories: this characterful road has played a part in Ho Chi Minh's modern history, from the go-go bars that catered for young American GIs back in the 1950s, to its 1970s descent into disrepair after the fall of Saigon.
Today, it's just as colourful: take in the colonial facades and street food stalls while dodging Honda-straddling teenagers and shady characters (watch your wallet – pickpockets abound).

6. Try karaoke
If you're a night owl, you're in the right place. Ho Chi Minh City by night has everything from bia hoi (fresh beer), to a variety of clubs, restaurants and bars for every taste.

Karaoke is a national pass-time, and bright-coloured signs announce it everywhere. Alternatively, relax and listen to traditional and popular Vietnamese music.

Movies are inexpensive, and not a bad place to cool off on a hot day. Tickets cost from $5 at newer cinemas – older theatres cost less. Concerts, plays and other events take place year-round, so be sure to ask at your hotel or hostel for current dates, times and ticket prices.

7. Haggle for bargains in the markets
There are two landmark markets (cho) in Ho Chi Minh City, and numerous others. Cho Ben Thanh, located in District 1 across from the bus station, is probably the best known. It is especially popular in the evening and at night, when food vendors set up stalls and locals and tourists alike gather to eat and shop.

The other, Cho Lon, is a huge Chinese market. You will not see as many tourists here, and the variety of goods is amazing. Both markets are a lot of fun, regardless of whether you're souvenir shopping or just browsing.

Ben Thanh is possibly more regulated, so you may have to worry less about knock-offs or price gouging. That said, you should always be wary of knock-offs and gouging.

Bartering is the way to shop here, so jump right in, offer a price that you think is fair, and have fun. Be extra careful if prices are absent or not clearly marked – that goes for everything, everywhere, every time.

8. Stop for coffee
Believe it or not, Vietnam is the biggest coffee exporter in the world. Vietnamese coffee is excellent – and it's inexpensive and available nearly everywhere. Black coffee with ice (ca phe da) is strong and sweet with an almost chocolate-like richness. Condensed milk can be added, giving you coffee milk ice, or ca phe sua da.

Coffee shops are a huge part of the city's culture. From street vendors to side-walk shops, it's hard to beat having a coffee and watching Ho Chi Minh City go by. Prices range from 33 cents from a street vendor, to $3 or more at the top-end places. Deep-roasted Trung Nguyen is the most popular local brand.

9. Sample the street food
Vietnam’s reputation as one of the world’s tastiest street food nations is well deserved, but many of the pricier restaurants can be disappointing – especially when you combine (more-than-likely) poor service with the hit your wallet takes. You can have a much better meal elsewhere for just a few dollars.

In small eateries, prices range from an incredibly low $3 for a typically large meal of meat, rice and vegetables, but you can pay $50 or more at a four- or five-star restaurant. The hot pots are outrageously good. Tipping is highly irregular, which makes the overall lack of anything resembling service a bit easier to swallow.

Fancy making some authentic Vietnamese cuisine at home? Try your hand at Gordon Ramsay's favourite dishes, Vietnamese sticky chicken wings or pho beef noodle soup.

10. Travel further afield
Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect starting point for exploring southern Vietnam, as well as further afield around South-East Asia. The graciousness of the people living in the 'countryside' is quite refreshing after being stuck in the city for long stretches of time.
Taking the express water taxi and checking out all of Vung Tau is an unmissable day trip. Can Tho, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne are all nearby, as is Cu Chi.

Một số bài thuốc từ nghệ rất đơn giản

 Một số phương thuốc từ tinh bột nghệ đen nguyên chất rất đơn giản mà hiệu quả
- Chữa giun đũa, giun kim: Lấy 1 thìa cafe dịch ép từ nghệ tươi thêm vào đó một nhúm muối, trộn đều và cho trẻ uống vào sáng sớm lúc bụng đói.

- Chữa chứng thiếu máu: Mỗi ngày uống 1 muỗng dịch ép từ củ nghệ đen tươi pha với mật ong trong nhiều ngày.
- Chữa hen suyễn:  Một thìa cafe Tinh bột nghệ hòa với một ly sữa, uống 2-3 lần trong ngày, nên uống lúc bụng đói.

- Chữa cảm lạnh, ho: Nửa muỗng bột nghệ hòa trong 30 ml sữa ấm, uống mỗi ngày để chữa ho. Khi bị cảm lạnh thì đun nhẹ hỗn hợp này trên bếp, ngửi và hít hơi.

Một số bài thuốc từ nghệ rất đơn giản

- Chữa bong gân sưng đau nhức: Tinh Bột nghệ trộn với chanh và muối thành bột nhão rồi bó vào chỗ bong gân, làm trong vài lần.

- Chữa thủy đậu trong trường hợp mụt nước mới mọc: Củ nghệ nướng thành tro, lấy tro hòa trong 1 tách nước lọc, bôi vào các chỗ thủy đậu. Nên sắc nước bột nghệ và uống thêm sẽ giúp mau lành bệnh.
- Giúp sởi mau phát và chóng khỏi bệnh: Củ nghệ khô nghiền thành bột, lấy 1 muỗng bột nghệ hòa vài giọt mật ong, trộn chung với 1 muỗng dịch ép lá bầu hoặc bí, uống 2-3 lần trong ngày.

Ninh binh travel guide

Ninh Binh travel guides are indispensable when you  discover destination  in Vietnam.
Ninhbinh -vietnam is a bridge linking Northern provinces with Southern ones and it is located on the transportation including National Highway 1A and trans-Vietnam railway. Ninhbinh contains all the scenic quintessence of whole Vietnam within its relatively small size. So, Ninhbinh can be said that is a miniature of Vietnam. Ninhbinh - a miniature of Vietnam is a province with potential and diversity terrain of both mountainous and coastal areas. Ninhbinh is located in the transitional position of natural systems: Red river delta, Northwest mountain area in Hoa Binh - Thanh Hoa buffer zone and sea territory. Ninh Binh – Halong 3 days
Ninh Binh

1. Location and weather
Ninhbinh-vietnam is delimited by Hoa Binh and Ha Nam to the North; Nam Dinh to the East and Thanh Hoa to the West and South. Here, the terrain is diverse with mountainous areas in the West and Northwest; and coastal parts in the East and South. The province is about 95km from Hanoi, or 2.5 hour South by car
The average temperature is 23.4 Celsius degree and its high humidity, between 80-85%, there is tropical monsoon climate. The best time to Ninhbinh travel in the dry season. It is between November to April of the following year.

• Jasmine Cruise – Halong Bay

2. Place to see
- Trang An eco-tourism center is a community cenic in Ninhbinh-vietnam. It is the most famous attraction of Ninhbinh-vietnam. With a chain of natural wonders like Tam Coc, Thai Vi Temple, Bich Dong Pagoda, Fairy cave or Sunny Valley; Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist center is regarded as “Nam thiên đệ nhị động” (The second best cave of the South).
- Cuc Phuong National Park belongs to Nho Quan District, Ninhbinh province. It is the first national park of Vietnam preserving a variety of rare animals and plants. Here, there is has May Bac mount with 648.2 meters. It has tropical monsoon climate, average annual temperature about 24.70C. Especially, Cuc phuong has many caves, beautiful landscape and historical natural remnants such as: Trang Khuyet Cave, Chua Cave, Thuy Tien Cave, Nguoi Xua, Cave, Con Moong grotto, San Ho Cave…

• FROM THE DELTA TO ANGKOR

Ninh binh travel guide

- Ninhbinh - a miniature of Vietnam is great destination for cultural explorers. Here, the number of ancient vestiges may overwhelm any other provinces in Vietnam. In addition, Ninhbinh-vietnam attracts tourists by a complex of new pagodas is Bai Dinh Pagoda.
One more remarkable attraction of Ninhbinh-vietnam is Phat Diem Church - the most beautiful church in Vietnam which was built of stone and wood in all 24 year. Beside alluring tourists by its size, the most interesting part of Phat Diem Church is such a center of a religion originated from Western country, is built in Vietnamese architecture.

3. Ninhbinh ’s specialties
If you have chance to Ninhbinh travel would immediately think about delicious dishes made from goat, Kim Son wine, eel vermicelli and scorched rice (dried rice).
Among those specialties, Ninhbinh mountain goat is a well-known specialty that tourists can enjoy in many big cuisine centers like Hanoi, Sai Gon, Ha Long, Vung Tau, etc. However, it can be sure that you will be served with the most delicious one in Ninhbinh- vietnam, the origin of such goat meat.
You can spend time enjoying these specialties since they are not only delicious dishes but also contain the traditional value of this land. It is also a good way of getting to know about Ninhbinh -vietnam.

4. How to get there.

Ninhbinh travel guide has a convenient traffic system and tourist may get there by motorbike, car or train.
If you are in a small group, you can take a bus or a taxi since it is not too far from Hanoi. There are regular bus which depart from the South Bus Station in Hanoi

Hoi An - When to go

Hoi An - When to go
Vietnam's north-south extent and seasonal wind patterns give it a varied climate, which make it a viable destination at any time of the year. Some seasons are more favourable than others, however. Tours Centre Vietnam

The Vietnamese climate

The north of the country experiences four seasons, with a surprisingly cool winter season for the latitude. The summer months from May to September are almost always hot and humid, with the most rainfall occurring during this period. Winter, from late December to early March, is often grey, drizzly and chilly. Indochina sails – Halong Bay travel

The south has two seasons, wet and dry. During the rainy months between May and November, it rains fiercely for about 30 minutes a day (but some days not at all), normally in the afternoon or early evening. The dry season runs from December to April, with the hottest months stretching from March to late April, with temperatures well over 30°C (86°F)

• 4 days private cruise Mekong Delta on Gecko Eyes

Hoi An - When to go

In Central Vietnam – roughly from Danang to Nha Trang – the dry season runs from February to September, and is followed by lots of rain from October to December. The seasons are not as pronounced here, however, and it can rain at any time of the year, but the hottest months are June/July while the coolest months are December/January.

High and low season in Vietnam

Generally, high season is from October through March. The peak is from mid-December through February, at which time prices can nearly double, particularly in beach-resort areas. During the peak season it is essential to have advanced reservations in resort areas such as Mui Ne and Nha Trang. Conversely, in the low season some hotels, resorts and restaurants may close for a month.

The best and worst times to visit are subjective to some degree. If you are a budget traveller and don’t mind a few wet days, come in low season. If you enjoy bustling activity, want the best chance of good beach weather and can afford the extra costs – and particularly want to spend Christmas, New Year or Tet in Vietnam – then high season is for you.

It’s near-impossible to find a time of the year when the north, centre and south have equally good weather, but the safest bet – if you’re travelling the length of Vietnam – is between March and April. The rains will have abated, humidity levels are still bearable, and it will be relatively warm and dry throughout Vietnam. However, if you are just visiting north and south Vietnam and skipping the centre, November and December are good months too.

Vietnam's festivals and events

Festivals in Vietnam are a time of fun and plenty. In fact, the country is a great place for festival lovers. Colourful celebrations, most with a strong Chinese cultural influence, take place throughout the year, although the most interesting are in spring and autumn. Common elements in traditional festivals include temple visits, offerings to ancestors or tutelary gods, costumes, dragon and lion dancing, music, parades – and lots of food.

Central Vietnam Shopping and ancient palaces

Explore the quaint trading town of Hoi An, Central Vietnam's tailoring mecca.

The Ben Hai River in Central Vietnam marks the 17th parallel, which once marked the demarcation line between North and South Vietnam. Though reunited over two decades ago, the north south division of Vietnam remains obvious. When the Ben Hai River is crossed from north to south, everything seems to improve, roads and food being the most obvious. Danang – Hoi an 3 days

Central Vietnam is home to a wealth of attractions from the ancient imperial capital of Hue to the cosmopolitan shopping and the beach destinations of Hoi An and China Beach. 

Less glamourously, the region is home to the Demiliterised Zone (DMZ) which was the scene of heavy fighting during the American war. This part of the country is dotted with all manner of war-period attractions, including the remains of Khe Sanh and other US bases along the DMZ. Unfortunately, little remains at most of these sites as time and scrap hunters have had their way.  CU CHI TUNNELS, VIETNAM

Central Vietnam Shopping and ancient palaces

The one exception is the Vinh Moc tunnels -- a breathtaking testament of the tenacity of the Vietnamese people and a far more worthwhile attraction than the far more touristic Cu Chi tunnels.

Most travellers to Vietnam pencil in Hue and Hoi An as definite "must sees" but then fail to allow themselves enough time in each town. This is particularly the case with Hoi An, where, while it can feel almost Disneylandesque at times, people are always running out of time. If you allowed just a couple of days for Hoi An, be sure to double it. Jasmine Cruise – Halong Bay

And don't forget Da Nang. It's home to more than just the closest airport to Hoi An! There's also a terrific Cham Museum, China Beach and an overall rather fun, little touristed Vietnamese city.

Vietnamese New Year

Vietnamese New Year
Tet Nguyen Dan, or Tet for short, is considered the biggest and most popular festival of the year in Vietnam. Celebrated on the first day of the first month in Lunar Calendar, Tet’s celebration is the longest holiday which may last up to seven days (with the exception of Tet 2012 when the holiday is expected to last for 9 days!). Vietnamese New Year in 2013 will last from February 10-13, and in 2014 from January 31st to Feb 4th. Hanoi – Sapa 5 days
How Tet is calculated?
Different from the Gregorian calendar, Lunar Calendar has a fix number of twelve months with 30 days each, and a leap-year will have a whole intercalary month instead of the 29th day of February. The new year of Lunar Calendar normally will start in late January or beginning of February according to Gregorian calendar. That explains why Tet days vary from year to year: it is because the leap month may fall shorter or longer which create a smaller or bigger gap between the two calendars. Halong with Starlight Cruise

Vietnamese New Year

When is Tet?
* In 2011, Tet day falls on February 3rd
* In 2012, Tet day falls on January 23rd
* In 2013, Tet is on February 10th
* In 2014, Tet is on January 31st
* In 2015, Tet is on February 19th
The actual holiday will last 1 day before and about 3-5 days after the day mentioned above.
What is Tet?
Tet is the occasion for Vietnamese to express their respect and remembrance for their ancestors as well as welcoming the New Year with their beloved family members. Moreover, in the past, Tet was essential as it provided one of few long breaks during the agricultural year, which was held between the harvesting of the crops and the sowing of the next ones. To make it easier, one can imagine Tet as a combination of Christmas and New Year: every family will get together to have big meals, decorate Tet trees and eat Tet food but to welcome the new year instead of a religious cause.
Watch our latest video: My heart can feel Tet for the most vivid image from Tet in Vietnam.
How is Tet celebrated? HO CHI MINH CITY’S CENTRAL POST OFFICE, VIETNAM
Since Tet occupies an important role in Vietnamese’s religious beliefs, Vietnamese will begin their preparations well in advance of the upcoming New Year. In an effort to get rid of the bad luck of the old year, people will spend a few days cleaning their homes, polishing every utensil, or even repaint and decorate the house with kumquat tree, branches of peach blossom, and many other colorful flowers. The ancestral altar is especially taken care of, with careful decoration of five kinds of fruits and votive papers, along with many religious rituals. Everybody, especially children, buy new clothes and shoes to wear on the first days of New Year. People also try to pay all their pending debts and resolve all the arguments among colleagues, friends or members of family.
Like other Asian countries, Vietnamese believe that the color of red and yellow will bring good fortune, which may explain why these colors can be seen everywhere in Lunar New Year. People consider what they do on the dawn of Tet will determine their fate for the whole year, hence people always smile and behave as nice as they can in the hope for a better year. Besides, gifts are exchanged between family members and friends and relatives, while children receive lucky money kept in red envelope.
No matter where Tet is celebrated, it must be clarified from the beginning that Tet is not a day, but several days of celebration.
The general process is as follow (all dates quoted in lunar calendar):
1. Ông Công, Ông Táo Day (Kitchen God day) - December 23rd
2. Wrapping Chung cake - December 26-28th
3. Family reunion and Tất niên - December 30th
4. Giao thừa - New Year's Eve: including praying sessions to God and Ancestors, Xông đất  (First visit to a family in the new year)
5. First three days of the new year: visit paternal side on the first day, maternal side on the second day and teachers on the third day
6. Visit relatives, friends and neighbours: can take place from January 3rd - 5th
7. Hóa vàng - burn the offerings near Tet's end for ancestors: January 4th
8. Reopen business: usually owners pick a good date that matches their age
9. Tết Nguyên Tiêu: January 15th
Food for Tet
The following food is often consumed during Tet; some are particular to Tet and often associated with the grand celebration:
- Banh Chung/ Banh Tet
- Pickled onions
- Boiled chicken
- Mung bean pudding
- Vietnamese sausage - giò chả
- Xôi Gấc - Red Sticky Rice
- Roasted nuts and seeds
Read more about Essential Food for Tet holiday
Travelling to Vietnam during Tet
Tet has a very special attached meaning to all Vietnamese. It is the time for everybody to come back to their hometown, gathering with family, visiting relatives and having a good relaxing time after a hard-working year. If you have the opportunity to visit Vietnam during Tet holiday, make sure you join this festive and happy moments of Vietnamese!
You can also read our tips on travelling to Vietnam during Tet here.