CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

First charter flight from Iran takes 200 visitors to HCMC

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism welcomed a group of 200 Iranian tourists who arrived in the city on a charter flight on March 19.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism welcomes the first charter flight from Iran to the city. (Photo: VGP)

It is the first time that an Iranian airline has operated a direct VIP charter flight to Vietnam, opening up opportunities for international tourism market expansion, especially in the Middle Eastern market.

The Iranian visitors’ selection of Vietnam as a destination during Nowruz, the Iranian New Year celebration, demonstrates the country’s growing appeal.

During the 10-day and 9-night journey across Vietnam, the visitors will visit tourist attractions, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Na Hills in Da Nang City, the ancient town of Hoi An, One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.

Another group of 200 Iranian tourists is scheduled to arrive in Ha Noi on March 28.

The number of international tourists visiting Vietnam in 2024 reached more than 17.6 million arrivals, up 139.5 percent compared to the same period in 2023, according to the latest data from the General Statistics Office.

International visitors to Vietnam in January 2025 hit 2.1 million, up 18.5 percent compared to the previous month and 36.9 percent compared to the same period last year.

Source: SGGP – en.sggp.org.vn – Mar 20, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

An Giang’s festival receives UNESCO certificate as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

A ceremony was held on March 19 to receive UNESCO certificate recognizing the Ba Chua Xu (Holy Mother of the Realm) Festival at Sam mountain in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

A ceremony to receive a UNESCO certificate recognizing the Ba Chua Xu (Holy Mother of the Realm) Festival at Sam mountain in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Chau Doc, An Giang Province, March 19, 2025 – Photo: VGP

The event saw the participation of Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh, former Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and UNESCO Representative to Viet Nam Jonathan Baker.

It is Viet Nam’s 16th intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO and the second heritage in the Southern region (after the Art of Don Ca Tai Tu music and song) and, notably, the first traditional festival in the Mekong Delta receiving this honor.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed hopes that international organizations, especially the UNESCO Viet Nam, will continue to accompany and support the country in preserving, promoting, and spreading traditional cultural values, integrating them into the global cultural heritage.

Culture is the spiritual foundation of society and the soul of the nation, he said, emphasizing the need to focus on protecting the cultural space of the heritage by ensuring a harmonious balance between preservation and development, while maintaining the sacred landscape of Sam mountain.

Mai also asked for preserving traditional rituals, raising community awareness about the value of heritage, investing in sustainable development of cultural tourism, and enhancing the promotion of heritage image with a view to further spreading influence, and inspiring cultural values of the festival. 

The festival has been preserved and practiced for generations in Chau Doc of An Giang province. It is held from the 22nd to the 27th of the fourth lunar month, at the Ba Chua Xu Temple on Mount Sam and the stone pedestal on the mountain to worship the Holy Mother.

It reflects the culture of Viet Nam’s southerners as well as cultural exchange and blending with the Khmer, Chinese, and Cham communities. The festival honors Ba Chua Xu and serves as a time for local residents to express their gratitude and respect for those who have rendered service to the nation.

Source: VGP – en.baochinhphu.vn – Mar 20, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Many special programs in Hue Ao Dai Week 2025

Hue Community Ao Dai Week 2025 will take place from June 6th to June 15th across the two districts of Phu Xuan and Thuan Hoa, as well as in various towns and communes.

Hue Community Ao Dai Week 2025 will feature a cycling parade.

This week-long event is part of the Visit Viet Nam Year – Hue 2025. Through it, the strengths, brand, and unique cultural value of Hue Ao dai will be showcased, building Hue’s tourism image associated with Ao dai and stimulating tourism development.

The highlight of the week will be a special Hue Ao Dai art program within the framework of National Tourism Year 2025, taking place on the evening of June 6th at An Dinh Palace.

On the morning of June 7th, there will be an environmental awareness cycling event titled “Ao Dai through the Streets.” The route starts at the Quoc Hoc Stele and passes through Le Loi Street – Ga Bridge – Bui Thi Xuan Street – Da Vien Bridge – Le Duan Street – Tran Hung Dao Street – Truong Tien Bridge – Le Loi Street, and ends at the Quoc Hoc Stele.

Following this, on the afternoon of June 8th, the “Hundred Flowers Walk” of traditional Vietnamese attire will take place. The parade will start at Nghenh Luong Dinh Pavilion, proceed along the pedestrian walkway by the Perfume River, Le Duan Street – Tran Hung Dao Street – Truong Tien Bridge – Le Loi Street, and end at Quoc Hoc Stele.

A new highlight of this year’s Ao Dai Week will be the “Hundred Flowers Walk” featuring traditional Vietnamese attire.

Additionally, throughout the week, various related events will be held, including “Ao Dai Journeys to the Roots”, “Ao Dai – The Brilliant Colors of the Ancient Capital” art performance, “Ao Dai in the Streets” flashmob performance, “Ao Dai in Schools” seminar, Art exhibition and a collection of Ao dai “Applying the Art of Diem Phung Thi” exhibition, ceremonial incense offering at the tomb of Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat, parade and tribute to Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat, incense offering to Emperor Minh Mang – the ruler who established Ao Dai as the national dress, etc…

The event is expected to attract thousands of participants at each program, honoring Hue Ao Dai, affirming the “Hue – The Capital of Ao Dai” brand name and contributing to the promotion of Hue’s culture in connection with local tourism development.

Source: Hue News – news.baothuathienhue.vn- Mar 17, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Michelin Guide suggests 5 must-try eateries in Da Nang

(TITC) – The Michelin Guide suggests several affordable yet delicious eateries in Da Nang that are worth trying.

Quán Nhân (Bib Gourmand 2024)

Located on Phan Tu Street, Ngu Hanh Son District, this eatery is famous for its duck-based dishes. According to Michelin, the restaurant exclusively uses ducks from Cam Nam Island, a local breed known for its flavourful, tender meat without any gamey odor.

A bowl of duck porridge here includes duck meat, rice, mung beans, and coix seeds, all slow-cooked in duck broth, resulting in a rich and distinct taste. The restaurant also serves boiled duck and duck salad.

Open from 10 AM to midnight, it’s an ideal spot for late-night diners.

Bánh canh Yến (Michelin-recommended 2024)

With over 30 years of operation, this eatery (located on Nguyen Hoang Street, Hai Chau District) is a favourite among locals and tourists in Da Nang.

The thick and chewy banh canh (Vietnamese thick noodle soup) here sets it apart from other places. The broth, made from pork bones and snakehead fish, delivers a mildly sweet yet flavourful taste. Diners can choose from a variety of toppings, including fish cakes, quail eggs, crab cakes, and crispy fried dough sticks.

Cô Chủ Nhỏ (Bib Gourmand 2024)

This is a restaurant chain in Da Nang, renowned for traditional Vietnamese dishes, particularly duck-based specialties.

Besides staples like porridge and boiled duck, the highlight of the menu is the duck salad, which combines duck meat with green mango, banana blossoms, figs, and aromatic herbs. The dish offers a delightful balance of chewy duck meat and refreshing vegetables, making it a perfect choice for summer dining, especially for groups of friends or families.

Quán Phú Hồng (Bib Gourmand 2024)

Located on Yen Bai Street, Hai Chau District, this is one of Da Nang’s oldest bun thit nuong (grilled pork vermicelli) eateries, with over 35 years of history.

The restaurant’s grilled pork and nem lui (grilled pork skewers) are praised for their rich flavour and signature aroma, achieved by grilling over charcoal. Additionally, it serves banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes) with a crunchy crust and a generous shrimp-and-pork filling, accompanied by fresh herbs and a tangy-sweet dipping sauce.

Diners can also order bo la lot (grilled beef wrapped in betel leaves) or extra grilled meat for a more satisfying meal.

Mỳ Quảng Sứa Hồng Vân (Bib Gourmand 2024)

This well-known budget-friendly eatery is located on Le Hong Phong Street, Hai Chau District.

Its standout feature is the vibrant red-orange broth, made from fresh shrimp, offering a unique and delicious flavour. The eatery provides a wide selection of toppings, including quail eggs, pork, shrimp, fish cakes, and crispy jellyfish.

Open from 6 AM to 1 PM, it is always packed, especially in the morning. With its reasonable prices and flavourful dishes, this spot has become a favourite among both locals and tourists.

Tourism Information Technology Center

CategoriesDiscover Viet Nam By Ánh Ngọc Trương

A Tour of Hanoi: Exploring the charm of local culture and street food

(TITC) – Recently, Nikkei Asia published an article about an experiential journey through Vietnam’s culture and cuisine.

The Vibrant Capital of Vietnam

The author visited Hanoi on a chilly December day. “It’s only 6 AM, but Hanoi is already bustling and lively”, he exclaimed. To foreign visitors, a morning in Hanoi appears full of life, with street vendors carrying baskets of roses, chrysanthemums, and tulips on bicycles weaving through the streets. Elderly women danced to upbeat music around Hoan Kiem Lake. Nearby, office workers in formal suits sat on plastic stools by the sidewalk, chatting over steaming bowls of pho.

According to Nikkei Asia, Hanoi has been developing rapidly, the city is now filled with cafes, thrift stores, restaurants, and craft workshops. According to the Hanoi Department of Tourism, the city welcomed 4 million international visitor arrivals in 2023, most of whom stayed in the bustling Old Quarter, a maze of 36 narrow streets.

Many shops here once specialized in producing goods for the Vietnamese royal court. On Hang Bac Street, silversmiths still craft intricate jewelry. Meanwhile, Hang Ma Street is famous for decorative paper and stationery, transforming into a vibrant “Christmas Wonderland” in December with red and white ornaments.

Bustling Street Food Scene

The author was introduced to some of the city’s best eateries. Navigating through streets packed with motorbikes, they stopped at a small eatery selling banh xeo, a crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipped in a sweet and tangy fish sauce.

The next stop was a restaurant serving cha ca lang, a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled catfish marinated with turmeric and galangal, cooked over charcoal. The dish is stir-fried with scallions and dill in hot oil and served with soft rice noodles, roasted peanuts, and pungent shrimp paste.

Another signature dish sampled was bun cha, consisting of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly, served in a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, accompanied by rice vermicelli and fresh herbs. This dish gained global fame after former U.S. President Barack Obama dined on it with the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain at Bun Cha Huong Lien in 2016.

Coffee Culture

Nikkei Asia noted that coffee holds a special place in Vietnamese life. The country’s Central Highlands region is a powerhouse for robusta coffee cultivation. Today, Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, accounting for more than 40% of the global robusta supply, according to the World Economic Forum.

One of Hanoi’s must-try specialties is egg coffee. At the renowned Giang Café, egg yolks are whipped with sugar and condensed milk to create a rich, creamy foam layered over strong black coffee. Other notable variations include salt coffee, which features a creamy salted topping, and coconut coffee, made with aromatic coconut milk.

Additionally, Nikkei Asia listed 10 must-try experiences in Hanoi:

1. Enjoying street food

2. Taking a city tour to explore Vietnamese history

3. Visiting Hoa Lo Prison Museum

4. Exercising by Hoan Kiem Lake in the morning

5. Exploring the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam)

6. Attending a pottery-making class

7. Savouring egg coffee

8. Tasting Vietnamese banh mi

9. Watching a water puppet show

10. Spending half a day at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the daily life and traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.

Tourism Information Technology Center

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Da Nang Food Tour Festival to be held for the first time

The Da Nang Department of Tourism held a press conference on Thursday evening to introduce the Da Nang Food Tour Festival 2025 which will be held for the first time at the East Sea Park from March 28 to April 1.

A press conference in progress

Festival-goers will have the experience the culinary space of Da Nang – Viet Nam – International regions with the theme “Delicious dishes converge”. Accordingly, they will enjoy more than 200 typical and authentic dishes such as Quang noodles, ‘bun mam nem’ (rice vermicelli with fermented anchovy dipping sauce), chicken rice, ‘banh trang cuon thit heo’ (belly pork and vegetables wrapped in soft rice paper), ‘banh xeo’ (steamed rice flour pancakes), seafood, and ‘goi ca Nam O’ (raw fish salad), plus to South Korean, Japanese, European – American, Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisines.

At the Danang Food Fun experience space, visitors can directly experience how to make ‘banh xeo’, spring rolls and ‘banh it’ (sticky rice cake), along with culinary art performances such as noodle dance, bartender skill demonstration  and ‘Bai Choi’ (singing while acting as playing cards) on the theme of cuisine.

In particular, the programme “More than delicious – Hunting for Da Nang flavours – Exchanging quality gifts” will bring the opportunity for visitors who collect culinary stickers, take check-in photos at the festival, and post information and images on personal channels, to receive valuable gifts from the organisers.

Also, there will be “Da Nang Food Tour – The Chef Competition” with the participation of more than 20 professional and amateur chefs from accommodation and food establishments, and restaurants.

In addition, a wide range of sideline activities will be held, including flashmob performances, special art programme combined with DJ, a video contest of Da Nang street food experience journey, and the Da Nang Food Tour Culinary Passport with the experience of collecting stamps to receive many attractive gifts.

Speaking at the press conference, Ms. Truong Thi Hong Hanh, Director of the municipal Department of Tourism, said that the Da Nang Food Tour Festival will be a new product to serve tourists, and at the same time, contribute to promoting local, Vietnamese and international cuisine, and building and developing Da Nang to become a unique culinary tourism destination on the world tourism map.

Source: Da Nang Today – baodanang.vn – Mar 14, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Khanh Hoa tourism promotion conference in Russia

Khanh Hoa tourism promotion conference took place in Moscow City, Russia on March 11. 

Representatives of Khanh Hoa tourism enterprises introduce products to Russian travel agencies.

Present at the event were Dang Minh Khoi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to the Russia; Nguyen Khac Toan, Permanent Deputy Secretary of Khanh Hoa Provincial Party Committee, Chairman of Provincial People’s Council, Secretary of Provincial Party Agencies; Tran Hoa Nam, Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; Manuylov Vyacheslav Viktorovich, Acting Director of the Department for External Economic and International Relations of Moscow; representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee; departments, agencies and sectors of Khanh Hoa Province together with more than 130 representatives from tourism associations and businesses in Russia and Khanh Hoa.

Speaking at the opening of the conference, Ambassador Dang Minh Khoi affirmed that tourism is an important economic sector, contributing greatly to the socio-economic development. Vietnam -Russia relations, especially tourism cooperation between the two countries, have seen significant progress.

The Ambassador emphasized that Russia is one of the vital markets of Vietnamese tourism, with more and more Russian tourists traveling to Vietnam to explore distinctive culture, diverse cuisine, and stunning landscapes. In particular, Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa is considered the “beach capital of Vietnam” and is a very popular destination for Russian tourists thanks to its captivating long coastline, crystal-clear waters, pleasant climate and a wide array of services.

In 2024, Vietnam welcomed more than 232,300 Russian visitors, making up 36% compared to its pre-Covid-19 in 2019, up by 84.9% compared to 2023. Russian visitors to Vietnam are expected to continue to increase in 2025. Vietnam always creates favorable conditions for Russian travelers. Recently, Russian travelers are eligible for visa exemption up to  45 days to enter Vietnam and 90 days with e-visas.

Russia has also included Vietnam in the list of countries that are granted e-visas with a stay of 14 days with straightforward application procedures. The Vietnam – Russia comprehensive strategic partnership has continued to develop strongly, creating momentum for tourism development cooperation between the two countries,” Ambassador Dang Minh Khoi affirmed.

Russian travel agency representatives learn about tourism information in Khanh Hoa.

At the event, the Organizing Committee screened a video introducing the province’s unique destinations, from the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang to high-end resorts, diverse sea tourism services and unique local cultural experiences. Also at the conference, delegates discussed specific solutions to overcome difficulties to restore the Russian tourist market.

Representatives of tourism businesses and delegates from both sides pledged to cooperate closely, with the aim of taking advantage of preferential policies, as well as exchange initiatives, to overcome current difficulties towards sustainable tourism development.

Speaking at the conference, Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Tran Hoa Nam affirmed that Russian tourists are a traditional tourist market for Khanh Hoa tourism in particular and Vietnam in general. In 2019, there were about 463,000 Russian arrivals to Khanh Hoa Province, accounting for 71.6% of the total number of Russian tourists to Vietnam and Russia was known as the second largest international tourist market of the province at that time.

After the Covid-19 pandemic, in 2024, the number of Russian tourists to Khanh Hoa has resumed, reaching more than 105,500 arrivals, up by 206% compared to 2023, but only 22.8% compared to 2019. Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Tran Hoa Nam expressed his hope that Khanh Hoa Tourism Promotion Conference in the Russian Federation will contribute to promoting the Russian tourist market.

Also within the framework of the conference, representatives of Russian enterprises visited the exhibition with many attractive products and publications, providing a comprehensive view of the province’s tourism services and potential. In particular, through the Business-to-Business (B2B) session at the conference, representatives of Russian and Khanh Hoa enterprises directly exchanged, connected and built long-term business cooperation relationships with partners from Khanh Hoa in the coming time.

Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Tran Hoa Nam and members of the working delegation worked with the Aeroflot Airline.

After the conference, the delegation of Khanh Hoa Province had a working session with representatives of the Russian national airline Aeroflot with the main objective to discuss in detail the plan to resume the direct flight service from Moscow to Cam Ranh International Airport which has been suspended since early 2020 due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic..

Speaking at the meeting, Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Tran Hoa Nam emphasized the importance of opening a direct flight route in tourism promotion between the two countries. “The restoration of the flight route from Moscow to Khanh Hoa not only shortens travel time but also reduces airfare costs and facilitates the promotion of the Russian tourist market, one of the major international tourist markets of Khanh Hoa tourism,” Tran Hoa Nam expressed.

Aeroflot representatives said that the airline is closely monitoring the trend of international tourism recovery after the Covid-19 pandemic, especially the increase in travel demand of Russians to warm destinations in Southeast Asia. In particular, Khanh Hoa stands out as a great destination for Russian tourists thanks to its remarkable sea and island tourism potential, beautiful natural landscapes and ideal warm climate.

Accordingly, Aeroflot has planned to resume flights to Cam Ranh with 2 flights/week from the end of March 2025 and will consider increasing the frequency of flights during the peak tourist season. The reopening of the flight route from Moscow to Cam Ranh not only meets travel demand but also contributes to promoting trade and bilateral cooperation between Russia and Vietnam.

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Mar 13, 2025

CategoriesUncategorized By Ánh Ngọc Trương

New visa policy: Opportunity to draw international tourists

Since the beginning of the year, the Vietnamese Government has issued 2 resolutions on visa exemption for citizens of 15 countries. This is an opportunity for Vietnam tourism in general, and Khanh Hoa tourism in particular, to attract international tourists.

From 2023, the National Assembly agreed to extend the duration of electronic visa from 30 days to 90 days, valid for multiple entries; increase the temporary stay from 15 days to 45 days for citizens of countries unilaterally exempted from visa by Vietnam, creating a boost for drawing international tourists, while enhancing the competitiveness of Vietnam tourism with other countries in the region.

Polish tourists directly fly to Vietnam

According to statistics from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism), in the first two months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed nearly 4 million international visitors, an increase of 30% over the same period last year. In 2024, Vietnam tourism had a spectacular growth with nearly 17.6 million international visitors, an increase of 39.5% compared to 2023, reaching a recovery rate of 98% compared to 2019.

From a local perspective, the new visa policy also has a great impact on Khanh Hoa tourism. According to the report of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in the first two months of 2025, Khanh Hoa welcomed more than 974,000 international visitors, an increase of 13.7% over the same period last year. In 2024, Khanh Hoa welcomed more than 4.7 million international visitors, exceeding the plan by 58.9%. The spectacular growth of the international visitor number is thanks to attractive tourism products, marketing, promotion and the new visa policies. For example, with the Korean visitor market, thanks to the convenience of direct flight routes (more than 20 flights/day from Korea to Khanh Hoa), and visa exemption, the number of Korean visitors to Khanh Hoa has increased significantly in recent times. Le Thanh Trung – Director of Good Day Venaja Company Limited said: “Many Korean tourists travel to Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa like a weekend vacation. They just need to book flight tickets, accommodation online, and then “pack their bags and go”.

Korean tourists try to make pottery while staying at Champa Island Nha Trang.

In order to promote tourism development, aiming to complete the goal of welcoming 22 – 23 million international visitors in 2025, the Government recently issued Resolution No. 44 on visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Russia, Japan, Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland with a temporary stay of 45 days from the date of entry on the basis of fully meeting the entry conditions according to the provisions of Vietnamese law. This policy is valid from March 15, 2025 to March 14, 2028 and may be considered for extension.

Earlier, in early 2025, the Government issued Resolution No. 11 on visa exemption under the 2025 Tourism Development Stimulus Program for citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic and Switzerland (effective from March 1 to December 31). Many travel businesses believe that the above two resolutions will create a boost to attract international tourists with high spending and long stays to Vietnam. Bui Quoc Dai – Deputy Sales Director of Anex Vietnam Trading and Tourism Company Limited commented: “The Government’s visa exemption for tourists from these 15 countries is an opportunity for Vietnam tourism in general, and Khanh Hoa tourism in particular, to attract more international visitors, especially European visitors. For example, with the Polish tourist market, visitors are exempted from visas, so our company has the advantage of opening tours to bring visitors from Poland to Khanh Hoa. In particular, the new visa policy helps the company confidently coordinate with partners to reopen direct flights from 11 Russian cities to Khanh Hoa from mid-March 2025”.

Visa policy is becoming an advantage to attract visitors. Therefore, in Official Dispatch No. 22 dated March 9, 2025 on a number of key tasks and solutions to reduce administrative procedures, improve the business environment, and promote socio-economic development, the Prime Minister assigned the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to preside over and coordinate with the Ministry of Police to continue researching and proposing to the Government a unilateral plan to exempt entry visas for a period of time for citizens of more countries. 

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Mar 12, 2025

CategoriesDiscover Viet Nam By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Leaf Village & Farm in Nam My Village

The Leaf Village & Farm in Nam My Village, Hoa Bac Commune, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang is a new venue for those who love peace and closeness to nature. Coming here, everyone will enjoy countless interesting experiences amidst the majestic and cool mountain scenery with many attractive sightseeing and entertainment activities.

Aerial view of the Leaf Village & Farm. Photo courtesy of the Leaf Village & Farm

“In the middle of the vast mountains and forests, beside the slowly flowing river, the sunset falls and dyes the sky and earth golden. Just sit quietly, take a deep breath, all worries seem to disappear with the gentle breeze”. That is the message that the founder of the Leaf Village & Farm wants to spread to any visitor to this peaceful place. Officially opened in early March 2025, Leaf Village & Farm has quickly become a check-in spot attracting locals and tourists, especially young people and families to experience.

Located in the middle of a cool natural space, the Leaf Village & Farm not only stands out with its wild beauty but is also an ideal venue for those who want to find peace and balance in life. With an eco-resort model combining activities connected to nature, this place offers visitors relaxing experiences, contemplation and connection with nature as well as loved ones.

At the Leaf Village & Farm, visitors can experience many unique activities such as checking in at the colourful flower garden, exploring the cool farm, visiting the zoo, enjoying the comfort of the bungalow, immersing themselves in the cool stream or relaxing at the swimming pool.

In addition, interesting activities such as picking up chicken eggs, going fishing, making a campfire, participating in folk games or enjoying traditional dances and songs will also bring unforgettable moments. The Leaf Village & Farm also offers many attractive amenities such as a playground for children and adults. The spacious, airy space and the natural layout make this place an ideal site for family gatherings, groups of friends or team building activities.

In addition to fun and entertainment activities, the Leaf Village & Farm is also a space for connecting love. Here, families can spend precious moments together, enjoy meals with a strong hometown flavour and immerse themselves in the fresh nature.

Opening hours are from 5.00am – 10.00pm / daily with an entrance fee of VND150,000/adult, VND100,000/ child from 1m – under 1.4m and free for children under 1m; accommodation ticket price from VND350,000 (including breakfast); children’s workshop ticket is VND150,000/person. In March, the Leaf Village & Farm offers a 20% discount on entrance tickets from Monday to Thursday.

Source: Da Nang Today – baodanang.vn – Mar 12, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Vietjet Air launches Singapore-Phu Quoc direct air route

Viet Nam’s budget carrier Vietjet Air on Tuesday launched direct air route between Singapore and Phu Quoc island on the occasion of General Secretary To Lam’s official visit to Singapore.

General Secretary To Lam (8th from L) at the launching ceremony, Singapore, March 11, 2025 – Photo: VNA

This is Vietjet Air’s fourth direct air routes between the two countries, joining existing routes between Singapore and three of Viet Nam’s centrally-run cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Noi, and Da Nang.

Phu Quoc island is well-known for pristine beaches, mild climate, and ample accommodation options ranging from the budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Additionally, the island offers a diverse range of experiences, including modern amusement parks, and safari experiences.

The latest route is expected to not only boost tourism but also strengthen economic, trade, and cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Vietjet Air will operate the new route with four flights per week, bringing the total number of weekly flights between Viet Nam and Singapore to 78.

On the occasion, Vietjet Air and Carlyle Aviation Partners signed a US$300 million financing agreement to support the purchase of aircraft scheduled for delivery between 2025 and 2026.

The deal will help Viejet Air to get over additional 400 new aircrafts to expand its fleet.

Vietjet Air and Satair, an Airbus Group subsidiary, penned a cooperation deal on the use of Integrated Material Services (IMS), a comprehensive material supply solution for Vietjet’s entire fleet of Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft.

Source: VGP – en.baochinhphu.vn – Mar 12, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Quang Nam launches Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate tourism route

On March 8, the Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee officially launched a new tourism corridor: Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate at the Quang Nam International Travel Conference 2025.

Quang Nam’s officials and an representative from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism chair the conference.

According to Vice Chairman of Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee, Phan Thai Binh, this 100km three-destination journey integrates three unique cultural and natural landmarks: Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary – two UNESCO world heritage sites, and Dong Giang Heaven Gate Ecotourism Site featuring Vietnam’s highest concentration of natural waterfalls.

So, the new tourism route as a blend of architecture, history, and culture.

The Ngoc Rong glass bridge at Dong Giang Heaven Gate Ecotourism Site.

To support this initiative, the Quang Nam Department of Construction has approved a new interprovincial bus route connecting Hoi An, My Son, and Dong Giang Heaven Gate.

Delegates perform the ceremony to announce the Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate tourism corridor.

Speaking at the conference, the Quang Nam provincial Party Secretary, Luong Nguyen Minh Triet, highlighted the Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate heritage route as the province’s first official intra-provincial tourism route, linking key destinations and expanding regional connections.

Source: QNO – en.baoquangnam.vn – Mar 10, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Hollywood film crew fascinated to produce a new film set in Cát Bà (Hải Phòng)

(TITC) – On 10th March, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung had a meeting with Hollywood directors and film producers regarding a new film project.

Overview of the meeting (Photo: TITC)

On the Vietnamese side, attendees included MOCST’s Deputy Minister Ho An Phong; Chairman of the Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism Nguyen Trung Khanh; Director of the Department of Cinema Dang Tran Cuong; Director of the Department of International Cooperation Nguyen Phuong Hoa; Deputy Director of the Department of International Cooperation Tran Nhat Hoang; Deputy Director of Hải Phòng’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Vu Huy Thuong; leaders from Hanoi Tourism Corporation (Hanoitourist); Oxalis Adventure; and representatives from various tourism and travel enterprises.

On the Hollywood side, the delegation included Ms. Rose Lam, Global Executive Producer of Riot Studios (Riot Games), and Mr. Nicholas Simon, CEO and Producer of Indochina Productions.

Strengthening Film Industry Cooperation Between Vietnam and the U.S.

MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung speaking at the meeting (Photo: TITC)

Welcoming the Hollywood filmmaking team, MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung emphasized the significance of the meeting as an important milestone in future Vietnam-U.S. film cooperation. He noted that 2023 marked the 30th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations between the two nations, and the recent elevation of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has further deepened bilateral cooperation in culture, sports, and tourism.

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

Vietnam has adopted open policies and actively promoted people-to-people exchanges and tourism cooperation with the U.S. As a result, the number of American tourists visiting Vietnam, as well as Vietnamese tourists traveling to the U.S., has steadily increased. The U.S. is now one of Vietnam’s top inbound tourism markets. MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung praised the strong collaboration between the two countries in policy communication, destination promotion, and cultural diplomacy to foster mutual understanding.

VNAT’s Chairman Nguyen Trung Khanh at the meeting (Photo: TITC)

In 2024, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism launched the first-ever Vietnam Tourism & Film Promotion Program in the U.S. With the active cooperation of American partners, this initiative has significantly contributed to the development of the film industry and the promotion of tourism in both countries.

MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung also highlighted Vietnam’s reputation as an attractive destination for international tourists, as recognized by numerous prestigious global tourism awards.

“Vietnam’s breathtaking natural landscapes serve as inspiration for poetry, music, painting, and cinema. The Vietnamese people are friendly, warm, and welcoming. Leveraging these advantages, Vietnam has proactively collaborated with other countries to develop its film industry. Cinema has also become an important contributor to the national GDP,” the Minister stated.

He cited Kong: Skull Island as a prime example of a Hollywood blockbuster filmed in Vietnam. The movie gained widespread international recognition and significantly boosted Vietnam’s tourism industry, making it a shining example of cinematic cooperation between the two nations.

Hollywood’s Interest in Filming in Cát Bà

Ms. Rose Lam, Global Executive Producer of Riot Studios speaking at the meeting (Photo: TITC)

Ms. Rose Lam, Global Executive Producer of Riot Studios, expressed her gratitude for the warm reception from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. She introduced Riot Games as a multinational video game developer and publisher known for hit titles and global esports tournaments. League of Legends, one of its flagship games, has attracted 650 million players worldwide.

Riot Studios is currently planning a new film project. After scouting locations in Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam, the team determined that Cát Bà Archipelago (Hải Phòng) was the most ideal and feasible filming location. Ms. Lam expressed her hope that the Ministry and local authorities would provide support and favorable conditions for the production team to execute the project smoothly. She also highlighted the potential for the film to promote Vietnam’s tourism industry to a global audience.

Mr. Nicholas Simon, CEO and Producer of Indochina Productions speaking at the meeting (Photo: TITC)

During the meeting, the Hollywood team presented their project ideas and production plans for filming in Cát Bà, engaging in detailed discussions with Vietnamese officials.

Mr. Nicholas Simon, CEO and Producer of Indochina Productions, expressed optimism about further discussions on Vietnam’s film regulations and the practical aspects of the project. He emphasized that filming and premiering this movie in Hải Phòng would be an excellent opportunity to showcase Vietnam to the world.

According to Mr. Simon, Vietnam consistently ranks as a top choice for international travelers and filmmakers. Given Riot Games’ extensive global audience, a film shot in Vietnam would generate significant positive attention for both countries.

Vietnam’s Commitment to Sustainable Filmmaking

MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung reaffirmed Vietnam’s willingness to enhance collaboration with U.S. partners in film and tourism while ensuring compliance with national laws. He emphasized the importance of mutual benefits and shared responsibilities in the filmmaking process.

MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung gifting souvenir to Ms. Rose Lam (Photo: TITC)

Leaders and delegates of both sides taking souvenir photo (Photo: TITC)

The Minister also urged the Hollywood team to carefully study Vietnam’s Cinema Law to ensure the film meets both Vietnamese and international cinematic standards while avoiding inappropriate or culturally insensitive content.

Additionally, he stressed Vietnam’s strong commitment to environmental conservation and heritage protection. Since the proposed filming locations include areas designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, he emphasized the priority of preserving the environment, marine ecosystems, and cultural heritage.

“Vietnam’s stance is clear: we will not compromise environmental sustainability for economic gain,” MOCST’s Minister Nguyen Van Hung concluded.

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