“The Essence of Vietnamese Culture” shines bright in Prague, Czech Republic

(TITC) – On 26th June (local time), the art programme “The Essence of Vietnamese Culture” and the opening ceremony of the exhibition “Colours of Vietnamese Culture” took place in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. The event was part of the “Vietnamese Culture and Tourism Days in the Czech Republic” in celebration of 75th anniversary of relations between Vietnam and the Czech Republic.

Leaders and delegates performing the flag salute ceremony (Photo: TITC)

Attending the event on the Vietnamese side were Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho An Phong; Vietnamese Ambassador to the Czech Republic Duong Hoai Nam; Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism Ha Van Sieu; leaders from other departments under the Ministry. On the Czech side were Deputy Minister of Culture David Kašpar, officials from the Ministry, the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic, Czech citizens, and international visitors.

Vietnamese Ambassador to the Czech Republic Duong Hoai Nam speaking at the event (Photo: TITC)

According to Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam, 2025 marks a new historical milestone in Vietnam-Czech relations as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations. A key highlight is the elevation of their ties to a Strategic Partnership during the official visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to the Czech Republic earlier this year. The Ambassador expressed confidence that the sustainable Strategic Partnership will bring greater achievements and contribute to peace, strength, and prosperity in both nations.

“This mutually beneficial partnership will continue to thrive, driven by the close bond between our two cultures and peoples. I can proudly affirm that the cultural ties nurtured between Vietnam and the Czech Republic are extraordinary,” emphasized Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam.

Proud of the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic with over 100,000 people, he appreciated their significant contributions over the years in fostering the deep friendship between the two nations.

“We will continue to commemorate the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations with a series of friendship events and celebrations in both countries from now until the end of the year. And I hope that Deputy Minister David Kašpar will actively support our efforts,” said Ambassador Duong Hoai Nam.

Deputy Minister of Culture of the Czech Republic David Kašpar speaking at the event (Photo: TITC)

Speaking at the event, Czech Deputy Minister of Culture David Kašpar noted the deep-rooted traditional ties between the Czech Republic and Vietnam not only in diplomacy and economics, but also in culture and between the people. Today, the Vietnamese community is an inseparable part of Czech society, enriching its cultural diversity and leaving a visible mark on daily life in the country.

He was also pleased to share that Czech culture (music, literature, cinema, and theatre) has found a place in the hearts of many Vietnamese friends. He expressed his belief that ongoing cultural exchanges, joint projects, and artistic collaborations would continue to thrive, strengthening the cultural bridge between the two nations. One such initiative is the summer outdoor exhibition organized by the Museum of Puppet Culture in Chrudim, featuring a miniature model of a traditional Vietnamese water puppet stage and a photo exhibit showcasing this unique art form.

Mr. David Kašpar emphasized that culture has a special power to transcend geographical distances, language barriers, and historical differences. He hoped that this solemn moment would not only be an occasion to reflect on the shared past, but also a call to the future to continue fostering cultural dialogue, friendship, and creating new opportunities for exchange and mutual enrichment.

MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong speaking at the event (Photo: TITC)

Proud of the 75-year journey of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Czech Republic, MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong affirmed that this journey is marked by steadfast friendship and increasingly profound cooperation between the two peoples. Built on a foundation of positive tradition, the two nations have continuously cultivated mutual understanding and trust, not only in politics and economics but also in the fields of culture and the arts.

Vietnamese culture, with its long history and strong Eastern identity, has left an impression on Czech friends. Vietnam highly values the fact that the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic has been officially recognized as a national minority. This not only acknowledges their positive contributions to Czech society but also symbolizes harmonious integration and cultural diversity. Moreover, the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic acts as a cultural bridge connecting the two peoples, contributing to mutual understanding and friendship.

Vietnamese delegation at the event (Photo: TITC)

MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong shared that the “Essence of Vietnamese Culture” art programme represents the crystallization of Vietnam-Czech friendship, offering audiences both traditional Vietnamese melodies and European classical and folk music of the Czech Republic. It is not only a meeting of sounds but also a harmony of souls, where art transcends geographical and linguistic boundaries to touch the hearts of the community.

“We hope that today’s program, together with the tourism promotion and exhibition activities during the Vietnamese Culture and Tourism Days in the Czech Republic, will offer audiences memorable artistic experiences and help strengthen the bond between the peoples of our two countries, opening new opportunities for cooperation in culture, arts, and tourism,” emphasized MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong.

During the event, delegates, citizens, and tourists enjoyed a special performance of traditional Vietnamese art by artists from the Vietnam National Music, Song and Dance Theater.

A number of photos from the event:

Overview of the event (Photo: TITC)

Leaders and delegates at the event (Photo: TITC)

A large number of Vietnamese community members in the Czech Republic and delegates attending the event (Photo: TITC)

Art performances at the event (Photo: TITC)

Art performances receiving round applauses from audiences (Photo: TITC)

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Da Nang welcomes Thai and European famtrip delegations to survey tourism

In June, the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism already coordinated with Emirates Airlines to welcome famtrip delegations including prestigious travel companies from Thailand and Europe to survey and experience tourism products and services in the city.

Accordingly, from June 15 – 18, the Thai famtrip delegation comprising 12 representatives from leading travel companies visited a number of prominent destinations such as Sun World Ba Na Hills, Quang Nam Province’s Hoi An Ancient Town and Da Nang Museum, along with high-end beach resorts such as Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, and Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Center. The programme aimed to strengthen connections with Thai partners and build tour products targeting the high-end customer segment.

Between June 20 and 23, Da Nang received a European famtrip delegation of 16 members from key markets such as the UK, Germany, Italy, Russia, etc. via Emirates flights.

The delegation engaged in experiencing unique cultural and tourism activities in both Da Nang and Quang Nam Province, including Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2025, Sun World Ba Na Hills, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary.

The European guests stayed at international-class resorts such as Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Premier Village Danang Resort, and Hoiana Golf & Resort. They were also facilitated to connect B2B trade with local tourism businesses to build new tour products that are suitable for the needs of the European market.

Welcoming these famtrip delegations is an important tourism promotion activity that significantly contributes to promoting the image of Da Nang as a safe, attractive and friendly destination among international tourists. At the same time, this is an opportunity for international partners to better understand the potential, diversity and quality of tourism services of the coastal city in Central Viet Nam.

The city hopes that, through cooperation with Emirates Airlines and international famtrip groups, Da Nang will expand cooperation opportunities, develop new tourism products and increase the number of visitors from key markets in the coming time.

Source: Da Nang Today – baodanang.vn – Jun 26, 2025

Khanh Hoa: Impressive and colorful Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025

After nearly a month, the first edition of Culture and Sea Tourism Festival ended recently, leaving a good impression on local people and tourists. With nearly 40 activities ranging from cultural events, music programs, sports competitions, food festivals, environmental protection, etc., the 2025 Culture and Sea Tourism Festival is truly an appealing and colorful festival.

A festival for public

Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025 included a lot of activities designed for local people and tourists. The main stage of the main events and programs of the festival was designed and arranged mostly at 2-4 Square (Nha Trang Ciy) and Tran Phu Street in order to create a spacious space for locals and tourists to see the performances conveniently. It also helped to increase the connection and engagement between artists and spectators. This design and arrangement were well received and supported by the public via social media sites.   

Design of stage helps increase connection and engagement between artists and spectators

With such an open stage, the programs must also be spectacular, exciting and highly entertaining. Satisfying the expectation, “Nha Trang Say Hi” concert, international cultural exchange program and carnival taking place on three nights of June 7, 8 and 9 provided truly festive atmospheres. “Nha Trang Say Hi” concert. “Nha Trang Say Hi” concert stirred the spectators with rousing performances of Vietnam’s well-known artists such as Isaac, Duc Phuc, Anh Khoa, Anh Tu, Lyly, Anh Duy, Vu Thinh, Satila Hong Vinh, Ngoc Khanh Chi, FB group BOIZ. The international cultural exchange program spotlighted the appealing music and fashion performances of Hai Dang Song and Dance Troupe, Ninh Thuan Provincial Culture and Arts Center, Ulsan City’s art troupe (South Korea), Lorient City’s art troupe (France), and Miss Sea Island Vietnam 2025 beauties. The carnival featured 14 float cars decorated with images of 9 localities in Khanh Hoa Province, Ninh Thuan Province, and businesses and organizations in Khanh Hoa. The performances of international Miss Cosmo beauties and Miss Universe Vietnam beauties were also a highlight of the carnival. 

The 2025 Culture and Sea Tourism Festival also included many national and international level sports competitions organized with the desire to shape Khanh Hoa’s sea sports brand. In addition, there were many activities raising people’s awareness of environment protection, especially marine and island environment.

Sparking new ideas

The success of Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025 has sparked new ideas to organize festivals in the future. The support from the authorities and relevant units played an important role in the success of the festival. All of the main activities and events of the festival were broadcast live on Khanh Hoa Newspaper’s KTV channel. The working area for reporters and journalists was also located at convenient locations, facilitating the media and press reports of the press agencies in and outside the province. Security, order, fire safety and traffic safety, urban beautification, and environmental sanitation in the province, especially Nha Trang City were carefully carried out. During the 4 main days of Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025, Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa received about 667,000 tourists. Khanh Hoa’s lodging occupancy rates soared, reaching over 85%. 

A performance bearing traditional cultural characteristics at Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025 (Photo: V.T)

According to Dinh Van Thieu, Vice-chairman of Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee, Culture and Sea Tourism Festival 2025 provided invaluable experience for the province to organize future festivals. For instance, Nha Trang-Khanh Hoa Tourism Association needs to play a greater role in encouraging the involvement of large hotels in the festivals. Localities with developed tourism and rich culinary culture need to organize large-scale, unique culinary and tourism activities.

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Jun 26, 2025

Da Nang to host ASEAN – Korea Roundtable on Tourism

The ASEAN – Korea Roundtable on Tourism 2025 (AK-RT) is slated to take place in Da Nang from July 2 – 4.

The event is jointly organised by the Da Nang-based Duy Tan University, and PASSAGE TO ASEAN (P2A), a network of universities and colleges in the ASEAN region.

It will bring together policy makers from ministries, departments, and tourism sectors of ASEAN countries and South Korea, business leaders, and industry experts. The guests will discuss and propose practical solutions, thereby contributing to the recovery and sustainable development of the tourism industry in the post-pandemic context.

The event will focus on strengthening security and facilitating tourism activities; enhancing the experience of tourists; training and developing human resources in the tourism industry; and promoting understanding and respect for cultural diversity between ASEAN countries and South Korea.

Launched in August 2024, the AK-RT project is part of ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA). AK-RT is held in rotation in each country for 3 years. The first edition will be held in Da Nang (Viet Nam), and sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea and the AKFTA.

The event will greatly contribute to affirming the position of Duy Tan University in the field of tourism education and research, and at the same time, open up opportunities for Viet Nam, especially Da Nang, to improve its position on the international tourism cooperation map.

Source: Da Nang Today – baodanang.vn – Jun 26, 2025

Vietnamese Cultural Essence Show Celebrates 75 Years of Vietnam-Poland Diplomatic Relations

(TITC) – On 23rd June (local time), at the Polish Theatre in Warsaw, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism hosted a vibrant cultural event titled “The Essence of Vietnamese Culture”, along with the opening ceremony of the exhibition “The Colours of Vietnamese Culture”. These activities were organized to mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Poland.

“The Essence of Vietnamese Culture” steeped in Vietnam-Poland friendship

The event had the attendance of Mr. Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr. Ha Hoang Hai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Republic of Poland (concurrently accredited to Lithuania); Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism. On the Polish side, attendees included Mr. Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Ms. Bozena Zelazowska, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage; and Ms. Joanna Skoczek, Polish Ambassador to Vietnam. The event also drew a large audience from the Vietnamese community in Poland, Polish citizens, and international guests.

Mr. Ha Hoang Hai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Republic of Poland (concurrently accredited to Lithuania) speaking at the event

In his remarks, Mr. Ha Hoang Hai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Republic of Poland (concurrently accredited to Lithuania) praised the enduring and deeply rooted friendship between Vietnam and Poland. “Each milestone stands as a living testament to the power of trust and solidarity between our two peoples,” he stated. The Ambassador expressed appreciation for the thousands of Vietnamese students who have studied in Poland and for the contributions of the Vietnamese community residing there. “They serve as living bridges, tirelessly promoting cooperation through cultural heritage, arts, and cuisine.”

Of particular highlight was the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Festival held at Warsaw’s Old Town on 22nd June, which attracted a large number of audiences eager to experience the essence of Vietnamese culture. Ambassador Ha Hoang Hai emphasized that the geographical distance between the two countries is no longer a barrier but rather a gateway for deeper collaboration across areas such as trade, investment, and education. He also highlighted potential partnerships in emerging sectors like environment, green energy, agriculture, digital transformation, and innovation.

Looking to the future, the Ambassador voiced his hope that the friendship between Vietnam and Poland would continue to flourish, bringing mutual benefits and contributing to global peace, development, and prosperity.

The event attracted a large number of international audiences

Mr. Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recalled the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1950 during a time of global upheaval. “This was not just a political gesture but a profound declaration of solidarity between two nations, distant in geography but close in shared experience and aspiration,” he said. Over the decades, bilateral relations have expanded robustly across trade, education, science, and culture. He noted that the human bonding, nurtured by generations of students, workers, and multicultural families, remains a cornerstone of Vietnam-Poland ties. He expressed his optimism that the bilateral cooperation would continue to grow in the years to come, contributing to a more peaceful and cohesive world.

Mr. Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs speaking at the event

Leaders from both sides performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the exhibition “The Colours of Vietnamese Culture”

International guests explored and enjoyed the exhibition “The Colours of Vietnamese Culture”

MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong affirmed Vietnam’s deep appreciation for Polish contributions to cultural heritage preservation, particularly the work of architect Kazik, a devoted friend of Vietnam who played a key role in restoring Vietnam’s World Heritage sites such as Hoi An, My Son, and the Imperial City of Hue. He emphasized that heritage has laid the groundwork for enhanced tourism cooperation, where culture is not only preserved but also shared and celebrated.

With its natural beauty, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Vietnam warmly welcomes international visitors, including Polish tourists. Deputy Minister Ho An Phong highlighted Vietnam’s recent visa exemption policy for Polish citizens, announced by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during his official visit to Poland in January. This policy reflects Vietnam’s open-door policy and its desire to strengthen tourism relationship. He also acknowledged the Vietnamese community in Poland for their meaningful contributions to both societies and their role in spreading Vietnamese cultural values.

MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong speaking at the event

The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Promotion Program in Poland with its array of cultural activities, performances, exhibitions, and tourism promotion would leave a lasting impression on Polish citizens and the Vietnamese diaspora, further promoting tourism exchanges and deepening traditional friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

Delegates and distinguished guests taking souvenir photo

Traditional Vietnamese Art Performance

The audience was treated to a captivating showcase of traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and performances by artists from the Vietnam National Music, Song and Dance Theatre, offering a heartfelt celebration of cultural heritage and international friendship.

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Opening of the Vietnamese Garden at the Asia and Pacific Museum in Poland

(TITC) – On 24th June (local time), within the framework of the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Week in Poland, Mr. Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism attended the inauguration ceremony of the Vietnamese Garden, a unique cultural space newly established on the grounds of the Asia and Pacific Museum. This museum is one of the most prestigious and well-known institutions specializing in Eurasian culture in Europe.

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for the Opening of the Vietnamese Garden at the Asia and Pacific Museum

The Vietnamese Garden presents a distinctive Vietnamese cultural space to the Polish and international public, contributing to the promotion of Vietnam’s image within an international museum setting. It is a harmonious blend of culture, art, and landscape architecture, helping to build the image of a humanistic, friendly, and culturally rich Vietnam, while enhancing the country’s presence on the cultural map of Poland and Europe.

Speaking at the ceremony, MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong stated:

“We highly value the significance of establishing this garden, not merely as a landscape project, but as a vivid symbol of the identity, cultural depth, and spirit of the Vietnamese people. The bamboo groves, garden hedges, narrow paths, and traditional materials evoke memories of our homeland, and they also share with the world meaningful stories about the people and the land of Vietnam.”

Leaders and delegates taking photo by the Vietnamese Garden at the Asia and Pacific Museum

The inauguration of the Vietnamese Garden is also a meaningful highlight in the series of activities during the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Week in Poland to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The Vietnamese Garden, along with other remarkable Vietnamese artefact collections at the Museum, contributes to creating a rich and captivating Vietnamese cultural space for the Polish audience and international visitors.

The Asia and Pacific Museum, established in 1973, is the only museum in Poland and one of the few in Europe dedicated to the culture, art, and daily life of countries across Asia and the Pacific region.

Currently, the museum houses around 25,000 artifacts from over 40 countries, including items related to beliefs, fine arts, handicrafts, costumes, musical instruments, and daily tools. Vietnam is among the countries with a large and prominent collection, including traditional opera masks, ethnic musical instruments, traditional costumes, Buddha statues, and folk paintings…

In addition to permanent exhibitions, the museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions, art performances, seminars, and various cultural exchange and educational activities in collaboration with communities and diplomatic missions.

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Vietnam’s railway crowned “World’s Best Train Journey” for 2025

Lonely Planet’s newly published guide, Amazing Train Journeys, names the Thong Nhat railway line, also known internationally as the Reunification Express, the best train journey in the world for 2025.

The North-South Railway line or Reunification Express. Photos: Vietnam Railways

The train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is reported a deeply moving experience, offering stunning scenery and profound sentiment as there is “no more emotional way to travel through Vietnam’s two largest cities as the train glides past historic towns and stunning coastlines.”

Traveling by train is cheaper than flying, safer than driving, and free from traffic jams while allows passengers to enjoy the natural scenery outside the window. 

The publication praises the journey for its spectacular landscape views and the onboard atmosphere where passengers eat, rest, and share stories while the countryside slowly unfolds outside the window.

Recognized as one of the most beloved and memorable long-distance night trains in the world, the 1,726-kilometer North-South route offers a rare combination of affordability, cultural insight, and natural beauty.

In addition to receiving acclaim from Lonely Planet, the trans-Vietnam train was featured in The Washington Post in 2023. Travel reporter Natalie Compton described the ride from south to north as “the exact scenery I had hoped for when I envisioned the trip.”

She described seeing thick jungle foliage, lumberyards, goose farms, rice paddies, and stretches of bright blue ocean from the train window. Compton also noted the environmental benefit of choosing train travel over flying, calling it “a greener transportation option” and an immersive way to explore the Vietnamese countryside.

Interior of a train carriage on the North-South railway line

The Reunification Express runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, covering the entire length of Vietnam in 32 to 36 hours. The railway stops at several culturally and geographically significant destinations, including the limestone landscapes and ancient temples of the northern province of Ninh Binh; Hue, the former royal citadel in the central region; Danang, a central coastal city; Nha Trang, a seaside resort city; and Phan Thiet, a famous leisure city.

Tickets are available in multi-class options to accommodate various travel preferences. As of 2025, one-way fares for the entire route range from $30 for a soft seat to $120 for a VIP two-berth sleeper. Tickets can be booked via the official Vietnam Railways website, major online travel platforms, or directly at railway stations.

Foreign passengers experience traveling by train in Vietnam

With its top ranking in 2025, Vietnam’s Reunification Express reaffirms its status as more than just a means of travel; it is also a cultural and visual experience that connects the country’s history, landscapes, and people.

Source: Hanoi Times – hanoitimes.vn – Jun 22, 2025

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum unveils new applied, folk art exhibition space

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum has officially opened its new Exhibition Space for Applied and Folk Art, enriching its displays and celebrating national cultural identity through unique artifacts.

The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, on June 24, officially inaugurated its new Exhibition Space for Applied and Folk Art-an exciting addition that enriches the museum’s curatorial system while honoring the nation’s cultural identity through a collection of distinctive artifacts.

The newly opened space presents a wide array of applied art forms, including traditional costumes, jewelry, musical instruments, household items, and a diverse range of folk paintings and sculptures. Each piece reflects the depth and variety of Vietnam’s artistic heritage.

Designed with a modern aesthetic, the exhibition space features a cohesive blend of lighting, color schemes, glass display cases, and custom-built stands that enhance the visual appeal of every object on display. Digital technology plays a prominent role, with immersive 3D mapping projections and interactive touchscreens offering visitors a dynamic, multi-dimensional experience.

In addition, the museum has developed software to showcase artifacts not currently on display and plans to rotate exhibits periodically to maintain freshness and sustain public interest in learning and cultural discovery.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Nguyen Anh Minh, Director of Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, emphasized that integrating digital technologies not only optimizes exhibition space but also transforms the way audiences engage with art, elevating the overall visitor experience.

Launched in 2022 under the direction of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the display renovation project was carried out in close collaboration with specialized partners and has now reached full completion.

This new exhibition space at Vietnam Fine Arts Museum is poised to become a distinctive cultural and artistic destination, bridging traditional values with contemporary expression.

Source: SGGP – en.sggp.org.vn – Jun 24, 2025

Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa): top summer destination for Korean travelers

The coastal city of Nha Trang, Vietnam, has emerged as the most popular international destination for Korean tourists this summer, according to the Global travel platform Agoda. The city surpassed last year’s top pick, Tokyo, which has now dropped to second place. Accordingly, the 5 most searched destinations among Korean tourists are Nha Trang, Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka (Japan) and Da Nang.

With South Korea experiencing unseasonably hot weather, more travelers are opting for early summer getaways. Ongoing global inflation is also influencing travel patterns, pushing demand toward nearby destinations that offer greater affordability and shorter flight times.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, South Korea has overtaken China to become the largest source of international tourists to Khanh Hoa. In 2024, the province welcomed about 4.8 million international tourist arrivals, including more than 2.4 million Korean visitors. In the first 5 months of 2025, Khanh Hoa received  more than 1 million visitors from South Korea, a year-on-year increase of 4.1%. Currently, 9 Vietnamese and Korean airlines are operating 19 flights/day from major cities in South Korea (Seoul, Busan, Daegu…) to Cam Ranh.

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Jun 24, 2025

MOCST organizes Vietnam Culture and Tourism Festival in Poland

(TITC) – On 22nd June, the opening ceremony of the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Festival took place at the centre of Warsaw Old Town, Poland. The event is part of a series of activities during a working trip to three European countries by leadership of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MOCST), to promote cultural diplomacy and tourism of Vietnam, and stimulating travel demand from Vietnam’s traditional tourist markets.

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to open the Vietnam Culture and Tourism Festival in Poland

Attending the ceremony were Mr. Ho An Phong, MOCST’s Deputy Minister; Mr. Ha Hoang Hai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Republic of Poland and concurrently to Lithuania; Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism; leaders of MOCST’s departments; representatives of the People’s Committee of Hue City and relevant local authorities; along with a large number of international guests.

Within the framework of the festival, numerous cultural programs took place, including the Vietnamese cuisine showcase, featuring signature dishes such as phonem ran (fried spring rolls), and Vietnamese iced milk coffee, which attracted a large number of delegates and guests to visit, experience, and enjoy. Delegates, locals, and visitors were also treated to traditional art performances by artists from the Vietnam National Music, Song and Dance Theatre.

VNAT’s Vice Chairman Ha Van Sieu at the Hue City’s tourism promotional booth

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism also set up a Vietnam tourism exhibition space, with an area displaying promotional videos on Vietnam’s tourism and its local destinations. Additionally, various booths distributed publications, souvenirs, promotional items, and provided information exchange. Visitors showed great interest in the area showcasing tourism products from Vietnamese businesses, as well as displays of Vietnamese agricultural products.

A particularly exciting element was the enthusiastic participation in mini game contests, including photo and video clip competitions about the festival. Prizes included:

– Two round-trip Europe-Vietnam air tickets (sponsored by Vietnam Airlines)

One all-inclusive 12-day “Vietnam’s Green Journey” tour (sponsored by LUX Group)

– Travel vouchers (sponsored by Vietravel)

– Travel and hotel program vouchers (sponsored by Hanoitourist)

– Hotel vouchers (sponsored by Alba Thanh Tan Resort)

The event was held in the open-air setting of Warsaw’s historic Old Town, attracting a large number of international visitors

The event was held in the open-air setting of Warsaw’s historic Old Town, attracting a large number of delegates, guests, and international visitors. The diverse and engaging activities closely linked to Vietnam’s unique culture, art, cuisine, and tourism left a strong impression and drew many attendees to participate and experience. As a result, the image of a friendly and attractive Vietnam with its rich cultural heritage was effectively introduced to the Polish public, contributing to increased interest and future visits from Polish tourists.

According to Resolution 11/NQ-CP by the Government of Vietnam, Poland is one of three European countries eligible for visa exemption with a maximum temporary stay of up to 45 days for tourism purposes, under programs organized by Vietnamese international travel service providers. This policy is effective from 01 March to 31 December 2025.

The Vietnamese cuisine showcase area attracted significant interest from international visitors

In terms of tourist exchange, in 2023, Vietnam welcomed over 34,000 Polish visitor arrivals, recovering to 98% of 2019 levels. In 2024, the number rose to over 51,000, an increase of 25% compared to 2019. In the first five months of 2025, nearly 37,000 Polish tourist arrivals visited Vietnam, up 44.5% year-on-year. Poland currently ranks 6th among European markets sending tourists to Vietnam.

Year 2024 marks a strong expansion phase for outbound tourism from Poland, with significant increases in both the number of trips and tourism spendings. Data shows Polish travelers made approximately 14.6 million international trips in 2024, with estimated spending at USD 10.4 billion. In addition to traditional European destinations, Polish tourists are showing growing interest in farther destinations across Asia. With its rapid growth, the Polish outbound travel market is becoming increasingly important. The visa exemption policy under Resolution 11 provides a valuable opportunity for Vietnamese destinations and tourism businesses to connect, collaborate, and attract more Polish visitors in the near future.

Exhibition Area of Vietnamese Agricultural Products

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LED kites light up Da Nang’s night sky

In recent days, locals and tourists have been quite impressed with the ongoing artistic kite programme titled “Colours in the Air” at Pham Van Dong Beach, Da Nang city.

Giant, colourful kites on Pham Van Dong Beach. Photo: Ngoc Ha

50 aerodynamic kites, designed to simulate marine life, fly freely in the sky, creating a vivid picture where nature and art blend.

In particular, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm, kites with LED lighting systems fly in the Da Nang night sky.

From 7:00pm to 9:00pm, kites with LED lighting systems fly in the Da Nang night sky. Photo: Ngoc Ha

Each glowing kite is not only a work of visual art, but also a gentle story about the ocean, childhood dreams, freedom and hope. It is a moment that you cannot just see with your eyes, but need to feel with your soul.

According to the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the artistic kite performance programme “Colours in the Sky” is one of the most impressive and inspiring visual highlights of this year’s Enjoy Da Nang Festival. It is a place where residents and visitors can look up to the sky to touch the soul of Da Nang summer and where each wind and each color in the sky becomes a vivid drawing for a youthful, creative and vibrant city.

Source: Da Nang Today – baodanang.vn – Jun 23, 2025

Ha Long Bay listed among ASEAN’s top 15 tourist destinations

Ha Long Bay, along with Hoi An and Sa Pa, has been recognized as one of the top travel destinations in Southeast Asia by Gulf News in its feature titled “Top 15 Southeast Asia tourist destinations – Why it’s worth a visit.”

A corner of Ha Long bay

Gulf News, one of the leading English-language newspapers in the Persian Gulf region, selected destinations based on their blend of iconic cities, cultural heritage, tropical getaways, and culinary appeal.

“Southeast Asia is a region where ancient temples whisper tales of the past, emerald waters shimmer beneath golden skies, and every smile feels like home. From mystical mountains to vibrant street markets, this enchanting part of the world promises unforgettable adventures, rich cultures, and warm hospitality,” the article noted.

Among the highlighted locations, Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ranked third. It was praised for its breathtaking seascape of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters. The article emphasized that cruising or kayaking through the bay offers a truly unforgettable way to experience unspoiled natural beauty at its finest.

The ancient town of Hoi An in Quang Nam province was ranked eighth and the mountain town of Sa Pa was mentioned in last place at number 15.

Other places on the list included Bali, Indonesia; Palawan, Cebu and Bicol in the Philippines; George Town and Penang in Malaysia; Cambodia’s Siem Reap and Angkor Wat; Chiang Mai, Thailand; Luang Prabang, Laos; Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei; and Bagan, Myanmar.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – baoquangninh.vn – Jun 24, 2025