CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Quang Ninh welcomes over 1.1 million visitors during April 30 – May 1 holiday

Quang Ninh welcomed more than 1.1 million visitors over the five-day holiday from April 30 to May 4, reaching 112% of the figure from the same period in 2024, according to the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

Cruise tourists are ready to do a tour of Ha Long.

Of these, nearly 500,000 were overnight stays, and international visitors totaled around 102,000. Tourism revenue was estimated at VND 3.121 trillion, 1.4 times higher than last year, putting the province closer to achieving its VND 55 trillion tourism revenue target for 2025.

During the holiday, Quang Ninh organized 40 cultural, tourism, and sports events, including three provincial-level programs and 37 district and community-level activities. Among the highlights was the Ha Long Carnival 2025, held on May 1 in Bai Chay, Ha Long City, under the theme “Connecting Heritage – Pioneering to Shine.” The event, part of the 2025 Ha Long Summer Tourism Week, drew tens of thousands of residents and visitors.

Also noteworthy was the 2025 Red River Delta – Quang Ninh OCOP Fair, taking place from April 29 to May 4 with over 250 booths showcasing products from Quang Ninh and other provinces. The fair helped boost consumption, promote local brands, and served as a vital link between producers and consumers, contributing to economic growth.

Around 20,000 residents and visitors attended the Ha Long Carnival 2025.

There was a surge in the number of visitors to the province. The number of visitors to the province’s major tourist destinations was recorded as follows: Ha Long city – 651,000; Mong Cai city – 280,000; Uong Bi city – 112,600; Van Don district – 120,000; and Co To district – 34,000.

Major attractions saw from 2 to 3 times higher visitor traffic than usual, including Ha Long Bay with 98,400 visitors (33,000 international tourists), Sun World Park nearly 55,000 visitors, Quang Ninh museum 41,400 visitors, and the complex of Yen Tu monuments and landscape around 15,300 visitors. Mong Cai border gate recorded almost 26,000 international arrivals.

The first Vietnam-China Cross-Border Cycling Race (Mong Cai – Dongxing) 2025 attracted a large number of locals and tourists.

Hotel occupancy rates remained high throughout the holiday, with 4-to-5-star hotels reaching 90-95% capacity, and other accommodations averaging 70-80% occupancy. From April 30 to May 2, some destinations such as Co To, Quan Lan, and Minh Chau reported occupancy rates of 90-95%, while overnight cruises on Ha Long Bay also achieved 90-95% capacity.

The Red River Delta – Quang Ninh OCOP Fair 2025 is a popular destination during the holiday.

Quang Ninh also welcomed three international cruise ships during the holiday. Notably, on April 30, 2025, the Pacific World cruise ship docked in Ha Long for the first time, bringing over 1,700 high-end Japanese tourists. Visitors enjoyed tours of Ha Long Bay, Ha Long city, and Yen Duc village, experiencing local culture and attractions.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – english.baoquangninh.vn – May 4, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Ha Long Carnival 2025: “Connecting heritage – Pioneering to shine”

On the evening of May 1, Ha Long Carnival 2025, themed “Connecting heritage – Pioneering to shine”, lit up Sun Carnival square in Ha Long city with a vibrant celebration.

A vibrant festival on the bank of Ha Long Bay

The event kicked off a series of cultural, tourism, and entertainment activities marking the 2025 summer peak season. It also served as a highlight to promote Ha Long and Quang Ninh’s unique strengths and commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025).

The carnival featured four main components: an art performance program, a grand parade of floats with artistic performances and carnival-style costumes, a dynamic DJ stage with large-scale production inviting locals and tourists into an electrifying electronic music party, and a high-altitude fireworks display.

A panoramic view of the Ha Long Carnival 2025 stage.

The art program unfolded in three acts: “Ha Long – Radiant heritage wonder”, “Quang Ninh – Heritage within heritage”, and “Global integration – Pioneering to shine.” Nearly 1,000 performers participated, including singers, musicians, artisans from Northeast Vietnam, amateur actors, and art troupes from Vietnam and abroad. A large seaside stage combined modern projection, sound, lighting, 3D mapping, and live-action performances, creating a visually stunning experience.

The three acts illustrated Quang Ninh’s journey from a land of legends and living heritage to a symbol of global integration. Performances like “Heritage Carousel,” “Ha Long Legend,” “Sacred Yen Tu,” and “Footsteps of the Miners” took audiences on a cultural journey through history and tradition.

A standout highlight was the reinterpretation of UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritages such as Then singing from Binh Lieu, Quan Ho folk songs from Bac Ninh, Hue Royal Court Music, Central Highlands Gong Culture, Southern Don Ca Tai Tu music, and Hat Van “Co Doi Thuong Ngan.” These art forms retained their core essence while being refreshed through modern arrangements, theatrical staging, and interactive visuals, making them accessible to young audiences and international visitors.

Ha Long Carnival 2025 dazzles audiences with a stunning sound and light show.

Celebrating national identity in the open space of a world heritage bay, the carnival showcased a distinctive fusion of tradition and modernity, affirming Ha Long – Quang Ninh as not only a guardian of heritage but also a hub for spreading and elevating Vietnamese cultural values.

The final act, “Global Integration – Pioneering to Shine,” featured international performances, rising star Quang Hung Master D, EDM shows, high-altitude fireworks, and artistic paragliding. A highlight was the parade of five thematic floats, symbolizing Ha Long–Quang Ninh’s culture, spirituality, entertainment, and tourism, conveying the message of integration, dynamism, and progress.

Ha Long Carnival 2025 marked its 18th edition, further cementing its role as Quang Ninh’s signature cultural and tourism event. With the message “Connecting Heritage – Pioneering to Shine,” the carnival enriches the cultural identity of Northeast Vietnam and elevates Ha Long Bay ’s position on the global tourism map.

The Then singing performance from Binh Lieu honors Then singing, an intangible cultural heritage and a cherished tradition of the Tay people in Quang Ninh.

A high-altitude fireworks display lights up the sky over Ha Long city.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – english.baoquangninh.vn – May 2, 2025

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

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

CategoriesDiscover Viet Nam By Ánh Ngọc Trương

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

CategoriesNews By Ánh Ngọc Trương

Ha Long Carnival 2025 is scheduled for May 1

Ha Long Carnival 2025 promises to be a spectacular event, blending cultural heritage with modern entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists. 

The stage of Ha Long Carnival 2024 performance comprised 3 areas: on sand, shallow water and deep water.

Ha Long Carnival 2025 is scheduled for May 1 at Sun Carnival Square and Vo Nguyen Giap Street in Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

One of the most highly anticipated highlights of Ha Long Carnival 2025 is the Street Parade & Art Performances, during which vibrant processions will enliven Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Performers adorned in elaborate costumes will captivate audiences with dynamic dance routines and interactive engagements, fostering an exhilarating atmosphere throughout the festival. Additionally, traditional folk art presentations will be featured, providing an insightful showcase of the rich cultural heritage of Quang Ninh’s diverse ethnic communities.

For music enthusiasts, the live DJ performances & music shows will serve as a major attraction. This segment of the festival will feature a distinguished lineup of renowned DJs and singers, seamlessly blending contemporary rhythms with traditional Vietnamese melodies. These dynamic and energetic performances will ensure an engaging and immersive experience for attendees, further enhancing the celebratory spirit of the event.

The festival will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the night sky above Ha Long Bay with breathtaking visuals. This dazzling showcase will serve as a symbolic tribute to the unity and vibrancy of the region, providing a fitting conclusion to the festivities.

Beyond the entertainment, Ha Long Carnival 2025 will also encompass a variety of tourism & cultural promotion activities, including food festivals, exhibitions, and tourism fairs. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Quang Ninh’s rich culinary landscape, experience its unique cultural traditions, and gain insights into the province’s thriving tourism industry.

The main event is scheduled to take place on May 1 at 8.10pm at Sun Carnival Square and will be broadcast live on multiple television channels. Expected to attract thousands of spectators, this highly anticipated festival will further solidify Ha Long’s reputation as a premier cultural and tourism hub in Vietnam.

Source: Quang Ninh Online – english.baoquangninh.vn – Aug 2, 2025