Hanoi’s oldest hotel offers tour to explore its wartime bomb shelter

The iconic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, over 120 years old, is offering a special tour to explore its inside bomb shelter built during the fierce war years.

The bomb shelter built in the hotel during the fierce war years

The trip aims to mark the 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification (April 30, 1975-2025).

Visitors will have an opportunity to enjoy photographs of famous clients who stayed at the hotel, such as the King of Comedy, Charlie Chaplin, heads of state, royal family members, and many antique artifacts, including a 100-year-old room key.

The bomb shelter is accidentally discovered in 2011.

The highlight of the visit is the old wartime air raid shelter, built in its gardens. It is a unique historical relic and an unforgettable part of the memories of staff and guests who stayed at the hotel during the fierce years of war. Visitors will listen to the song “Where Are You Now, My Son” by American folk singer Joan Baez, a musical work featuring a blend of music, spoken word, and air raid siren in Hanoi in late December 1972.

After 1975, the bomb shelter was sealed off and forgotten until it was accidentally discovered in 2011 during the renovation of the hotel. With thick walls and a sturdy vaulted ceiling, the hidden bunker not only provided protection and a temporary place to stay during wartime but also preserved historical imprints.

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

Exhibition, film screenings recall Great Spring Victory of 1975

A special exhibition and film screening program titled “Resounding Great Victory of the 1975 Spring General Offensive and Uprising in Cinema,” marking National Reunification Day, will open in Nguyen Hue Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City on April 26.

An exhibition and film screenings in major cities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Southern Liberation and National Reunification (April 30) will be held in Ho Chi Minh City

The exhibition will display around 300 photographs from the collections of the Vietnam Film Institute, film production companies, and film studios. The photos are selected from documentaries, feature films, and historical materials depicting the 1975 Spring General Offensive and Uprising, which culminated in the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign.

In addition, there are also images of filmmakers and artists working on the southern battlefields during the resistance war against the US and the beauty and rhythm of life of Saigon—Ho Chi Minh City.

The exhibition is divided into two parts, including “Cinema and Historic Moments,” featuring the Tet Mau Than (1968) General Offensive and Uprising, the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign—the Great Spring Victory of 1975, and cinema along the routes of resistance in Southern Vietnam; and Saigon – Ho Chi Minh city through the lens of cinema.

The film screening program will take place in Nguyen Hue Walking Street in District 1 on April 27-28, Ho Chi Minh City’s General Sciences Library at No. 69 Ly Tu Trong Street in District 1 on April 24-29, and Ho Chi Minh City Open University at No. 97 Vo Van Tan Street in District 3 on April 25.

The screenings will present to the audience documentary films and feature films about the Revolutionary War and cultural and social life to spread the spirit of patriotism and national pride. In particular, there will be exchanges with filmmakers and historical witnesses, including a meeting with the film crew of the movie “Dia Dao: Mat Troi Trong Bong Toi” (Tunnels: Sun in the Dark), directed by Bui Thac Chuyen.

The exhibition and film screening program not only aims to honor the previous generations but also helps the younger generation better understand ancestors’ sacrifices and arouses the young people’s spirit of responsibility in preserving and promoting the glorious traditions of the nation and contributes to bringing historical values closer to the public through the language of cinema.

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

Two cruise ships call at Cam Ranh International Port in 2 consecutive days

Bahamas-flagged Seven Seas Voyager bringing 700 passengers called at Cam Ranh International Port on April 22.

Seven Seas Voyager at Cam Ranh International Port on April 22.

In the destination of Khanh Hoa, the cruise tourists visited famous atractions, namely Truong Son Traditional Craft Village, Dam Market, Long Son Ponagar, Ponagar Temples, etc; explored the suburban countryside of Nha Trang, enjoying a cyclo ride around the city.

Passengers on the Seven Seas Voyager ship disembark at Cam Ranh International Port to begin their tour of Khanh Hoa.

Seven Seas Voyager travelers visit Truong Son Traditional Craft Village.

Bahamas-flagged Seven Seas Mariner registered to call at Cam Ranh International Port on April 23 with 700 visitors to Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa.

According to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, since the beginning of 2025, Khanh Hoa has welcomed 13 cruise ships with nearly 17,600 travelers.

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Apr 22, 2025

Van Don launches summer tourism season 2025

On April 20, the People’s Committee of Van Don District, in partnership with CEO Group, officially kicked off the 2025 Van Don Summer Tourism Season at the Sonasea Van Don Harbor City resort complex.

A large number of locals and tourists enjoy their time at Sonasea Van Don Harbor City resort.

Themed “Touching the morning waves – Beginning the journey,” the event attracted thousands of attendees, including locals, tourists, artists, and representatives from domestic and international travel and real estate agencies.

This marks not only the beginning of Van Don’s peak travel season, but also a positive sign of revival for the northern coastal resort market. Throughout the summer, visitors can look forward to a dynamic lineup of entertainment, sports, cultural, and culinary experiences designed to energize the season.

A host of exciting activities awaits, such as Giant Bowling, Golden Muscle strength challenges, Climb to Glory obstacle runs, Terrain Breakthrough adventures, paragliding, jetskiing, jetboarding, and an epic floating water park, offering a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience never before seen in Van Don.

Since opening just one year ago, Wyndham Garden Sonasea Van Don has welcomed nearly 100,000 guests from over 50 countries, partnered with more than 600 travel agencies and 200 businesses, and maintained an impressive occupancy rate. It has quickly become a favorite destination among both domestic and international travelers.

The broader Sonasea Van Don Harbor City complex has also gained national recognition, earning a spot twice in the Top 10 Best Resorts in Vietnam 2024, as voted by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Business Forum Magazine, Reatimes Magazine, and the Vietnam Real Estate Association (VNREA).

During the launch event, CEO Group honored outstanding travel partners for their contributions in connecting Wyndham Garden Sonasea Van Don with travelers worldwide.

One of the major highlights was the official debut of Sonasea Sparkling, the first beachfront apartment development within the Sonasea Van Don Harbor City complex. Positioned as the new hub for leisure, resort living, shopping, and lifestyle experiences, Sonasea Sparkling is set to become a centerpiece for modern tourism and coastal living in Van Don.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – english.baoquangninh.vn – Apr 21, 2025

First flight from Khabarovsk to Khanh Hoa welcomed

Khanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism coordinated with Cam Ranh International Airport and Pegas Misr Vietnam Travel Company Ltd. to welcome a charter flight of Ikar International Airlines bringing tourists from Khabarovsk (Russia) to Cam Ranh on April 18.

Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee Dinh Van Thieu offers greeting flowers to Russian tourists upon their arrival at Cam Ranh International Airport

Present at the welcome ceremony were Dinh Van Thieu, Vice-Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; Nemtsov Iurii, Deputy Consul General of Russia in HCM City; Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism); Uong Viet Dung, Director of Vietnam Aviation Administration and leaders of relevant departments and agencies.

Nguyen Trung Khanh, Chairman of Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism offer greeting flowers to Russian tourists

Earlier, Pegas Misr Vietnam Travel Company, Ltd. had cooperated with Ikar International Airlines to operate charter flights for tourists from Russia to Khanh Hoa.

Reportedly, from now to May 2025, Pegas Misr Vietnam Travel Company, Ltd. jointly with Ikar Air will operate 25 flights from Russia to Khanh Hoa. The number of flights will continue to increase in the following months. Russian travelers will stay at 4-5 star hotels and resorts for 10-12 days, some for up to 28 days.

The cruise tourists can explore such attractions as Ponagar Temples, a special national monument; Hon Chong, VinWonders Nha Trang; take island tours and enjoy numerous entertainment services such as diving and mud bath.

Delegates pose with Russian travelers from Khabarovsk to Cam Ranh

Russian tourists are excited to visit Khanh Hoa

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Apr 19, 2025

Hoi An, a hospitable city in Vietnam

The esteemed online travel platform Booking.com recently published its ranking of the top ten most hospitable cities in Vietnam as part of the Traveller Review Awards 2025.

International tourists are excited to experience Tra Que vegetable village in Hoi An city.

Hoi An, a city rich in history and culture, has been ranked first on this prestigious list. Notably, this marks the second consecutive year that Hoi An has received the distinction of being the most hospitable city in the country.

Other destinations featured in the ranking include Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, Phong Nha, Con Dao, Cao Bang, Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, Sapa, and Ha Long.

Furthermore, as part of the 13th edition of the Traveller Review Awards, Quang Nam Province has earned recognition as one of the top five most hospitable regions in Vietnam, securing the third position. The other provinces included in the top five are Kien Giang, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, and Lao Cai.

This ranking is based on verified reviews from millions of travelers worldwide. The organizers of the Traveller Review Awards utilize these reviews to recognize and celebrate partners that consistently provide exemplary service and contribute to enhancing the overall travel experience.

Source: QNO – en.baoquangnam.vn – Apr 20, 2025

Regatta cruise ship brings 500 to Khanh Hoa

Marshall Islands-flagged Regatta cruise ship bringing 5,00 passengers together with over 400 crew called at Cam Ranh International Port on April 18.

Regatta cruise ship heading to Cam Ranh International Port.

In the destination of Khanh Hoa, the cruise tourists joined tours organized by Tan Hong Trading and Tourism Company Limited, visiting Truong Son Traditional Craft Village, exploring the suburban countryside of Nha Trang, enjoying a cyclo ride around the city, etc. Regatta ship left Cam Ranh International Port for Hong Kong (China) on the same afternoon.

Travelers pose at Cam Ranh International Port.

According to the Department of Tourism, since the beginning of 2025, Khanh Hoa has welcomed 12 cruise ships with 17,000 travelers getting ashore for sightseeing. It is a striking recovery signal for Khanh Hoa tourism.

Source: Khanh Hoa News – news.baokhanhhoa.vn – Apr 19, 2025

Promoting Hue’s culture and tourism at EXPO 2025

As part of the World EXPO 2025 held in Osaka, Kansai (Japan), Hue City Department of Culture and Sports introduced the culture and history of Hue Ancient Capital to the world. Especially this year, Hue City is hosting Visit Viet Nam Year 2025.

Mr. Phan Thanh Hai, Director of Hue City Department of Culture and Sports (second from left) together with other guests at EXPO 2025. Photo: VTH

At the event, Hue City Department of Culture and Sports collaborated with the Department of International Cooperation – Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism organized the opening of Vietnam Exhibition House and introduced special and typical events and activities of the exhibition house; in which, the department focused on promoting the images of Hue’s culture, Hue people, as well as the achievements of Hue City, a centrally-governed municipality. Furthermore, they also promoted and introduced the Visit Viet Nam Year – Hue 2025 with the theme “Ancient Capital – New Opportunities”.

Addressing the event, Mr. Phan Thanh Hai, Director of Hue City Department of Culture and Sports introduced typical values of Hue’s culture, as well as the achievements that Hue City has reached over time, and the city’s orientations for development in the field of culture and heritage in the coming time.

He emphasized that Hue is the cradle of Vietnamese culture and tradition, Hue also is a heritage city with special cultural depth, a green and sustainable tourist destination, as well as a creative and international integration city. With its long history, rich culture, together with the orientation of sustainable development, Hue is strongly emerging to become a leading cultural and tourism center not only in Vietnam but also in Southeast Asia and Asia in the near future.

“We invite international friends to come to Hue to discover, experience, and join hands to develop tourism towards a sustainable and creative orientation,” shared Mr. Hai.

Promoting Hue’s cultural values at EXPO 2025. Photo: VTH

According to Mr. Hai, EXPO 2025 event is an opportunity for Hue to continue promoting its image as a friendly, hospitable city, as well as an attractive and safe investment destination. It also opens up many new cooperation opportunities with international partners, introduces local brands to the global community, and contributes to enhancing the status and reputation of Vietnam in general and Hue City in particular.

Also in this event, Vietnam Exhibition House also held the launch ceremony for its official website and Virtual Exhibition House. The official website of Vietnam Exhibition House can be found at: http://vietnamexpo2025osaka.com, available in both Vietnamese and English. This is a comprehensive information portal that provides detailed contents about the highlights, exhibition details, event schedule, and latest updates on Vietnam Exhibition House. It also features images and introductions to the culture, country, people, and attractive destinations of Vietnam.

World EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai takes place from April 13 to October 13, 2025 with the participation of 158 countries and international organizations.

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

Vietnamese, Ethiopian PMs visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali, and their spouses enjoyed breakfast and visited Tran Quoc Pagoda in Ha Noi on April 17.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali (center) at Tran Quoc Pagoda, April 17, 2025. Photo: FB Thong tin Chinh phu

Prime Minister Pham Chinh and his wife invited the Ethiopian guests to enjoy typical dishes of Ha Noi and introduce them to Viet Nam’s culinary culture.

They then took a leisurely stroll along Thanh Nien street – one of the most beautiful and poetic roads in the capital city, with West Lake on one side and Truc Bach Lake on the other, and visited Tran Quoc Pagoda.

The Ethiopian Prime Minister and his spouse, who are on an official visit to Viet Nam, were given an introduction of Tran Quoc, a nearly 1,500-year-old pagoda considered the oldest in Ha Noi and also the center of Buddhism in the capital during the Ly and Tran dynasties.

During this first visit to Viet Nam by a high-ranking Ethiopian leader since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1976, which is also the first high-level delegation exchange in seven years, Abiy Ahmed Ali held talks and meetings with the top leaders of Viet Nam’s Party, State, Government, and National Assembly.

He also participated in several events within the framework of the 4th Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit.

On this occasion, the two sides signed cooperation documents in numerous fields, including education, training, trade, and aviation.

Source: VGP – en.baochinhphu.vn – Apr 17, 2025

Waiting for difference at DIFF 2025

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2025 themed “Da Nang – The New Rising Era” will take place May 31 – July 12. This will be the largest and longest fireworks festival with the participation of many new teams, promising to be an attractive and captivating DIFF season this summer.

DIFF 2025 will feature many new fireworks teams, promising many surprises and attractions. IN PHOTO: Fireworks display at DIFF 2024. Photo: SONG KHUE

The DIFF of differences

Unlike any other DIFF season, DIFF 2025 has many differences. Specifically, this will also be the first year with two teams from the host Viet Nam competing at DIFF. In addition to the familiar name of the Da Nang Fireworks team, there will be an additional fireworks team called Z121 Vina Pyrotech – Viet Nam Ministry of Defence.

Also, DIFF 2025 will be the longest and largest fireworks festival in the history of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, featuring six competition nights of spectacular displays with the participation of 10 teams from Viet Nam, Finland, the UK, Portugal, Poland, South Korea, Italy, Canada, and China.

The opening night of DIFF 2025 is set to take place on the evening of May 31, with a match between Viet Nam 1 and Finland, themed Cultural Essence.

Fireworks nights will be held every Saturday evening in the following weeks (with a one-week break before the final night), featuring themes and participating teams as follows: Night 2 (June 7): Creative Arts – Viet Nam 2 vs. Poland; Night 3 (June 14): Connecting Journeys – Canada vs. China; Night 4 (June 21): Sustainable Development – Portugal vs. the UK; Night 5 (June 28): Leading Technology – South Korea vs. Italy; and Night 6 (July 12): Embracing the New Era – Grand Final.

Head of Marketing Department of Sun Group Cao Ngan Ha said that this year’s DIFF promises not only impressive fireworks performances but also extraordinary experiences for visitors, blending art, music, sports, and cutting-edge technology. Accordingly, each night will be considered to be a lively live concert with popular domestic and international artists, combined with fireworks, music, and state-of-the-art technology, offering guests an experience that exceeds expectations.

Notably, the Sun Paradise Land (SPL) app will be introduced for the first time. With the app, visitors can personalise their Da Nang travel schedule, buy fireworks tickets and entrance tickets to major entertainment centres, andvote for the winning team each night to receive lucky gifts. Also, augmented reality (AR) will be integrated into the app, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a world of endless imagination and creativity alongside the Da Nang fireworks sky, creating a powerful ripple effect. Through these unique technological effects, this year’s fireworks experience promises to be elevated to a whole new level.

Expectations for DIFF 2025

During DIFF 2024, Da Nang welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors, up 60% compared to DIFF 2023. Revenue from accommodation, food and beverage, and travel services in June 2024 reached VND 16,344 billion, a rise of 28.2% over the same period in 2023. This showed the great attraction of DIFF for the overall development of the city.

Chairman of the Da Nang Tourism Association Ho Thanh Tu said that the municipal Tourism Association and its member chapters are planning to increase tours to lure more visitors to the central coastal city during the DIFF 2025 season in particular, and the summer in general. Also, special attention will be paid to developing more sightseeing and entertainment service packages combined with a series of events in the summer to enhance visitor experiences.

Vice President and General Director of Sun Group Central Region Huynh Nam Thang said that after 12 years of organisation, DIFF has truly become a festival with its own brand of Da Nang, making this place become the “city of fireworks” – a precious title that not every destination can achieve.

He emphasised DIFF has contributed to making Da Nang’s name increasingly popular in the international tourism map and make the city become an appealing tourist destination of regional and world stature every summer.

With the theme “Da Nang – The New Rising Era”, DIFF 2025 promises not only to be the longest and largest fireworks season in the history of DIFF with the most performance nights and participating teams ever, but also to bring the ultimate, emotional experiences to the audience thanks to breakthrough creativity in technology combined with impressive art, music and sports performances.

Aside from preparing items for DIFF 2025, Sun Group is planning a series of side events, with new and unique tourism products to be launched to elevate the experience for visitors, while contributing to enhancing the competitiveness of Da Nang tourism in 2025.

According to Director of the Da Nang Department of Tourism Truong Thi Hong Hanh, to accompany DIFF 2025, the city has been preparing many new products and unique activities to serve local people and visitors. Included are the Da Nang Museum, the Hai Van Gate relic site, and a series of special festivals and events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the city’s liberation, and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and the national reunification.

Moreover, the city continuously has organised cultural, sports and tourism festivals and events throughout the year to bring a vibrant festival atmosphere and valuable experiences to visitors. To attract visitors during the DIFF 2025 season, the city’s tourism industry has increased domestic and international communication activities through travel agencies, international press agencies, as well as social networks, especially on popular websites of key markets.

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

Summer in Ha Long: A vibrant season awaits

Ha Long city, the tourism heart of Quang Ninh province, is ready to welcome a vibrant wave of travelers this summer. With upgraded services, new experiences, and a dynamic calendar of events, Ha Long promises to deliver unforgettable memories for every visitor.

The family of runner-up Bui Phuong Nga and actor Binh An pose for a photo to capture unforgettable moments on the stunning Ha Long Bay.

This summer, the city is going all out to offer more than just beautiful scenery. By diversifying tourism products, improving service quality, and ramping up promotional efforts, Ha Long aims to attract both domestic and international travelers. In 2025, the city targets over 11.5 million visitors, including 3 million international arrivals, with tourism revenue projected to exceed VND 26,000 billion. In the first quarter of 2025, Ha Long welcomed 2.3 million tourists, or 105% of the same period last year and generating VND 6,345 billion in revenue.

In order to make summer 2025 truly spectacular, Ha Long has curated a series of exciting events that blend tradition, modernity, and fun. From the iconic Ha Long Carnival 2025 to themed festivals like the Beer & Grilled Squid Fest, Dragon Boat Races, Light Art Shows on the Heritage Bay, and the playful Guava Season Festival—there’s something for every interest and age. You can fly a kite, enjoy a vibrant lion dance performance, or marvel at hot air balloons floating above the bay.

At the same time, the city is upgrading streets, parks, and lighting systems to ensure a clean, green, and beautiful environment during peak season. Local authorities are working around the clock to maintain hygiene, food safety, public security, and fair pricing—so visitors can fully enjoy their holiday with peace of mind.

According to Mr. Nguyen Thanh Tuan, Head of the Division of Culture, Science, and Information under the People’s Committee of Ha Long city, Ha Long is not just maintaining existing services – it’s elevating them. New experiences such as scenic hot air balloon rides (tethered), café buses, and premium sightseeing cruises are on the way. Local travel agencies, hotels, and restaurants are joining forces to offer attractive packages with better prices and seamless service.

Private businesses are also adding their sparkle. At Sun World Ha Long Entertainment Complex, visitors can explore rose gardens, check-in zones, and a refreshed water park with well-trained lifeguards. Special promotions are available from April 14–25, with water park tickets at only VND 100,000 and Dragon Park at just VND 150,000 for all guests.

Hotels and resorts have been upgraded to meet rising demand. Many new properties have opened, offering unique design concepts and exceptional service. The majority of travelers are opting for 4- to 5-star hotels, attracted by their high standards and competitive rates. Most hotels are working closely with major tour operators to welcome more domestic tourists during the peak season.

“We expect full occupancy during summer, but our priority remains service quality. We will not increase prices during peak season and are actively building partnerships to ensure a stable flow of guests through year-end”, said Mr. Trinh Le Khanh, Sales Director at Bao Minh Radiant Hotel.

With festive energy in the air, endless entertainment options, and a city that’s ready in every detail, Ha Long this summer is the perfect getaway for those who seek excitement, culture, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the festivals, or the food, Ha Long is ready to welcome you.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – english.baoquangninh.vn – Apr 16, 2025

Vietnam Pavilion, World Expo, Osaka, Kansai, Japan, virtual exhibition,

The Vietnam Pavilion yesterday held an event to announce the launch of its official website and virtual exhibition space at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai in Japan.

The official website of the Vietnam Pavilion was officially launched via http://vietnamexpo2025osaka.com in both Vietnamese and English.

Outside the Vietnam exhibition hall at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

Vietnam’s virtual pavilion is hosted on the Virtual EXPO 2025 platform, allowing users to visit virtual exhibitions from over 150 countries and international organizations participating in EXPO 2025.

Within the Virtual EXPO platform, the Vietnam Pavilion is uniquely located on the Island of Light, featuring an eye-catching display of renowned artist Le Giang playing the zither (traditional Vietnamese instrument) at Van Long Lagoon in Ninh Binh.

Virtual Vietnam exhibition space

Visitors to the virtual Vietnam Pavilion can explore the Dong Son bronze drum, a national treasure of Vietnam, admire the recreated phoenix-embroidered Ao dai (Vietnamese traditional dress) which was believed to have belonged to Empress Nam Phuong and learn more about Vietnamese history through illustrated artworks by artist Ta Huy Long and so on.

The pavilion also showcases Vietnam’s rich regional cuisine, and offers an experience of traditional water puppetry. Notably, upon entering the virtual pavilion, visitors are gifted an avatar dressed in the iconic Ao dai (Vietnam’s national dress) and Non la (palm-leaf conical hat) and shall be invited to wave the Vietnamese flag.

Source: SGGP – en.sggp.org.vn – Apr 16, 2025