The Ho Chi Minh Trail – A Potted History from a Cyclist

I had five days on bike into south tropical Vietnam following the famed  Ho Chi Minh Trail, the supply route that leads thought forbidding jungle celebrated in a thousand Hollywood movies as an inhospitable place alive with all manner of ferocious mammals insects and reptiles all hell bent of inflicting a myriad of horrible experiences upon any wretched soul who has the misfortune to pass this way.

Biking Ho Chi Minh Trail

As I learn more about the history of the  Ho Chi Minh Trail begins to take shape with a far sharper outline than my previous blurred knowledge of what led to the American War and the necessity of the trail.

From my lessons so far I understand that by 1954 politics were, to say the least, unstable. Ho Chi Minh’s Communist Party was officially in power having given the French a decisive drubbing at Dien Bien Phu and unceremoniously booted them out. Uncle Ho, as he was affectionately referred to, swept to power in the first national election in a jolly long time. Ho’s communists were less than sympathetic to the nations catholic who they saw as friends of the French and American’s, people for whom the Communist Party felt no allegiance and very little sympathy.

The Communist Party had their capital and the parliament that presided over the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the northern city of Hanoi, whilst in the far south Saigon was the seat of parliament of the Catholic Party, rulers of the Republic of Vietnam, friends of the West, allies of The United States, sympathisers with the French and so, thoroughly dislikes by the communists. At this time Saigon was the most sophisticated city in South East Asia, a city of fine architecture, wide leafy boulevards and a level of development that left Bangkok, Kuala lumpur and Singapore looking like provincial backwaters. The nation was, in all respects, two nations with the country split conveniently across the middle by a UN imposed border 14 kilometers wide with the Ben Hai River running through the middle of it. The border was, apparently, a demilitarised zone, known as The DMZ and was a barrier designed to stop any cross border conflict, a fine and noble idea except that, then as now, nobody took a blind bit of notice of the United Nations.

The small town of Truong Son

Whilst the folks of Saigon were enjoying the good life, far away in the north the government in Hanoi was becoming a touch agitated with what they saw as the splitting of their nation, a situation they intended to rectify. All was not quite as rosy as it could be in the south either, with a fair faction of the population eager to follow the bidding of Uncle Ho in the guise of The National Liberation Front. This organisation, better known in the Western world as the Vietcong, had been formed to help rid the South of Catholics, imperialists and all other enemies of communism that helped keep Saigon in such a fine condition. These freedom-fighters/guerrillas/resistance fighters/terrorists -delete as you see applicable – needed supplying, as did the ever growing number of Communist troops congregating south of the DMZ.

The logistical problem of supplying the Communist forces in the far south would to most people have seemed insurmountable. The DMZ was around 700KMS south of Hanoi, Saigon a further 1100KMS. Sea was the easiest option for supply but as we all know the advisory capacity of The Americans in this civil war soon became a fully fledged military intervention, and their navy was not inconsiderable. But the jungle was to the Americans what the US navy was to the army of the north, and so it became the ally of the Communist forces in the shape of the route we now follow, Ho Chi Minh Trail.

View from above Truong Son moutain

Originally a series of trails dating back centuries as trade routes through one of SE Asia’s most inhospitable regions a network or trails crisscrossed through jungle, across mountains and through Valleys. The route soon became essential to the military operation of the Communists and by 1964 it was estimated that over 200 tons per day and up to 9000 men per year were reaching the south along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The route, or series of routes, led not only through Vietnam but also through Lao. It was tough, inhospitable and many who set out along it never reached their destinations.

In the year 2000 the then prime minister gave the go ahead to link up the most suitable of these small roads and trails to form an inland alternative to the oh so congested Highway 1. By 2005 it was pretty much complete. In places it splits, with two or more alternative routes. At times we come across smaller roads that parallel the HCM, or cut between the east and west options. Some of these alternatives we explore as we go.

Source: David’s blog

Recommended Vietnam cycling tour by ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA

The big challenge on Ho Chi Minh Trails: 

The so-called Ho Chi Minh Trail is one of the most renowned legends of the American War. The complicated road system winds along the Truong Son Range, which that facilitated movement of soldiers and war supplies from North Vietnam to battlefields in South Vietnam. Now the historic trail is being turned into a highway and hotels and towns are springing up speedily beside it. The route is incredibly beautiful with new mountain views around every corner, very little traffic, and virtually no tourists.

Highlights

• Pu Luong Nature Reserve
• Phong Nha Cave
• Vinh Moc tunnel & DMZ
• Hoian

Phu Quoc tourism achieves phenomenal growth

The number of tourist arrivals in Phu Quoc Island off Kien Giang Province since early this year has been rising sharply, almost doubling year-on-year.

This marks the first time the number of visitors to Phu Quoc has suddenly grown after the year-end peak season, said Le Minh Hoang, director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Kien Giang Province.

Usually in the low season, Phu Quoc welcomed some 20,000 tourists each month, but last month the number of tourists visiting the island was 38,000.

Hotels on Phu Quoc are often full. Currently, there are about 17 flights and eight ships taking tourists to Phu Quoc every day.

“The new airport has connected Phu Quoc with many other localities. Traveling by sea is also more convenient thanks to two additional passenger ships, and thus the tourist number is surging significantly,” said Hoang.

In mid-December, Airports Corporation of Vietnam inaugurated Phu Quoc International Airport in Duong To Commune after four years of construction. The airport can receive long-range, wide-body aircraft like Boeing B777-300 and Boeing B747-400.

It is estimated that Phu Quoc Airport will have a capacity of 2.65 million passengers per year by 2020 and seven million passengers a year by 2030. Phu Quoc has been connected with the country’s big tourist centers, such as HCMC and Hanoi.

Hoang said the new airport encouraged many investors to accelerate their projects on Phu Quoc Island.

Four hotel and resort projects have got off the ground since early this year. The largest project covers an area of 250 hectares and consists of 1,000 rooms, while the remaining three have a moderate scale. A number of projects are being conceived.

There are now some 98 standard tourist accommodation facilities with more than 2,900 rooms on the island.

Last year, Phu Quoc welcomed around 400,000 visitors, an increase of 14% over the preceding year. The island is usually most crowded during the summer.

Source: SGT

Information and help centre opens in Da Nang

 

 

A centre to assist tourists has opened in the central city of Da Nang, providing free information about hotels and destinations and handing out maps and brochures. 

The centre, together with Emergency Centre 115, will also provide medical assistance and liaise with 113, the mobile police force, to help tourists in case of emergencies.

Da Nang has numerous places of interest, like the Museum of Cham Sculpture, Ngu Hanh Son (Five Mounts), and Non Nuoc Beach besides a slew of luxury beach resorts.

Source: VNS

 

My Son Community Tourism Village opens

 

 

My Son Community-based Tourism Village in Duy Phu commune, central Quang Nam province, was opened on March 14 by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the International Labour Organization (ILO). 

The village, funded by the Luxembourg Government, is located close to the World Cultural Heritage Site of My Son. 

Forty households took part in the project, 30 of them from My Son hamlet. 

To ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of community tourism, five households built service facilities with a total sum of 15,000 USD mobilized by ILO. 

ILO’s representative Charles Bodwell said that the village helps improve local residents’ well-being and popularizes My Son Heritage Site to domestic and foreign visitors. Its aims are both economic development and environmental protection.

Source: VNA

 

Hue arrives on tourist map

 When eager travelers arrive in Viet Nam they usually have a familiar list of places that they are determined to see – HCM City, Ha Noi, Ha Long Bay, Sa Pa, maybe Ninh Binh. 

 

One name that usually doesn't crop up immediately is Hue, the former imperial capital, which despite its rich tradition and heritage has mostly been used by tourists as a mere stopping point midway through their journey. 

Recently, however, things have started to change and Hue is making a name for itself as a tourist destination in its own right.

Hue is the place I called home for 16 months, and I loved living in this city of contrasts; a place where tradition, education and culture come before business and development. 

In Hue, coffee shops and restaurants are surrounded by crumbling citadel walls that have stood firm through many conflicts – a visual reminder of the city's inimitable history and culture.

Long-term residents value Hue for its peaceful and quiet way of life, which can be quite hard to come by in a country as fast moving and often chaotic as Viet Nam. 

While they may be cynical from time to time about the snail-pace of life or the perils of the rainy season (more on that later), it is not uncommon when visiting other places for them to be heard saying "I could really do with a proper Hue coffee now" or "but food is much cheaper than this in Hue!"

Often it is the little things that are savored the most. There is nothing quite comparable to the simple pleasures of drinking a cold Huda (Viet Nam's finest beer) on the banks of the Perfume River, drinking ca phe sua (Viet Nam's finest milk-coffee) on a floating bamboo platform surrounded by lotus flowers, or drinking a supremely refreshing nuoc mia (sugarcane juice – Viet Nam's finest refreshment) in the shadow of the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral. Indeed, almost all free time in Hue is spent drinking something.

It would be wrong to paint Hue as a universally easy place to live though. Traffic can be chaotic, business hours are extremely unpredictable and the weather can be unbearable. 

The wet season from October to February is particularly challenging – with near constant heavy rain, flooding, uncomfortably low temperatures and an abundance of mould covering walls, possessions and clothes. 

The Hue people are well adapted to this inevitable state of affairs by now and continue with their daily lives with good humor. Expats in Hue seldom feel the same way. Those who brave the rainy season are rewarded when April arrives along with the sunshine, and the city transforms from beautiful, misty, rain soaked Hue to beautiful, resplendent, colorful Hue. 

Dishes fit for a king

The city has a justifiably excellent reputation for food, a legacy of the Nguyen kings who were famously fussy eaters. The Vietnamese dishes here are mouth-wateringly good and beautifully presented, but be warned – the Hue people have a preference for spicy meals so tourists should be prepared! 

The large Buddhist population means that the city offers some of the best vegetarian options in Viet Nam, and those who do not savor some of this cuisine can count it an opportunity missed. If you are lucky enough to be in Hue on a vegetarian day (the 1st, 14th, 15th and 30th of every month of the lunar calendar) it is worth visiting a large pagoda where sumptuous free meals are offered. 

For travelers who would prefer some home comforts there is something for almost everybody (Hue boasts good Indian, Korean, Japanese, French, Italian and Mexican restaurants among others) with good quality food and reasonable prices. 

Once the essential eating, sight-seeing, and coffee drinking is out of the way, I believe that visitors (both foreign and Vietnamese) should put down their guide books and go explore the city with an open mind. 

Sample the real Hue by singing with friends at one of the numerous karaoke places, haggling at Dong Ba Market, or sailing down the river on a swan boat and watching the sun set. Experiences here can often range from the sublime to the ridiculous, but they all linger long in the memory.

I will never forget my time in Hue. I was lucky enough to savor delicious tastes, magical landscapes and the simplest of lifestyles. I believe that everybody visiting Viet Nam should take the opportunity to go and experience it for themselves. 

Yes, Hue might not be as vibrant or fast paced as Ha Noi or HCM City, but the people who return here again and again for just one more ca phe sua on a lazy afternoon wouldn't want it any other way.

Source: VNS

 

My Son Community Tourism Village opens

My Son Community-based Tourism Village in Duy Phu commune, central Quang Nam province, was opened on March 14 by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Tourists taking photos at My Son Community-based Tourism Village

The village, funded by the Luxembourg Government, is located close to the World Cultural Heritage Site of My Son.

Forty households took part in the project, 30 of them from My Son hamlet.

To ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of community tourism, five households built service facilities with a total sum of 15,000 USD mobilised by ILO.

ILO’s representative Charles Bodwell said that the village helps improve local residents’ well-being and popularises My Son Heritage Site to domestic and foreign visitors. Its aims are both economic development and environmental protection.

Finding treasure on Pirate Island

Stories about a violent past serve as a major source of entertainment on a small island off the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang.

 

Hai Tac (Pirate) Island, officially known as Tre (bamboo) or Đốc Island, in Kien Giang Province is a worth visiting place in the Mekong Delta

Many people say the only fun you can have in Ha Tien Town is on Hai Tac (Pirate) Island, which is officially known as Tre (bamboo) or Đốc Island.

Curious, we went to Kien Giang Province and got on a motorboat heading for the island, which is some 11 nautical miles, or 21.7 kilometers off Ha Tien.

We arrived at the Nam (south) beach after two hours and managed to catch the sun going down into the sea, and gazed at a sight one can never tire of, one that never fails to strike awe.

At a nearby fishing port, local people were busy unloading their catch, buying and selling. Various marine creatures were being sold: flower crabs, squids, prawns, and many kinds of fish, at quite affordable prices of around VND70,000-80,000 (US$3.31-3.78) per kilogram.

If we, as visitors, were tempted to make a purchase here, the sellers themselves would arrange to have it cooked without any fuss. Tourism services might be scant on the island, but the locals more than make up with their hospitality and friendliness.

Actually, visitors can even catch their own seafood under instructions from local volunteer tour guides. During our visit, we had a lot of fun catching crabs at rock reefs at night. Equipped with powerful flashlights, we looked for the crustaceans that usually head to the shore, seeking food and/or mates, and to lay eggs. Once you find a crab, it is important to keep the light’s focus on its eyes, which will “paralyze” it. Then follow the light and impale it with a fork.

A lucky or good catcher can harvest several kilograms of crabs a night to cook with porridge or steam them in beer. Flower crabs steamed in beer is a highly recommended specialty for anyone who visits Pirate Island.

The next morning we got up early and watched sunrise at sea, as bewitching as the sunset, before heading to Dua (pineapple), one of the famous beaches on the island. Getting narrower and narrower until it disappears under the water, the beach is also known as Duoi Ha Ba, which means “sea god’s tail,” translated literally.

Then there is the “floating turtle” – a little bay with coconut palms and rocks known as Dong Dua (coconut cavern). Not far from the “turtle,” is the Chen (bowl) Beach. The two-kilometer long beach is mostly covered with rocks that look like overturned bowls when the tide is low.

Since the island is just some 15 kilometers long with a road on one side and sea on the other, tourists can rent a motorbike and go around the island without being afraid of getting lost.

We met a veteran fisherman named Tu who told us about the legend of pirates on the island. It is a story that his grandfather told him, Tu said.

A long time ago, the island was the base of a pirate gang called Canh Buom Den (black sail). They targeted ships operating in the waters between Ha Tien and Rach Gia towns, as well as a large part of waters in the Gulf of Thailand. It is said that the pirates hung a broom on the ship’s mast, implying that they would “sweep up” all the property from their victims.

Tu said several people believe the pirates have buried a treasure somewhere on the island. One day in March 1983, locals arrested two people as they were digging for the treasure. They claimed they had a 300-year-old map handed down through generations in their families.

Their claimed was never verified, and to add more mystery, in 2009 some local fishermen found a quite large amount of ancient coins when they were diving to catch snails and seahorses.

Meanwhile, going by historical records, between 1,700 and the early 20th century, Ha Tien was a trading port that welcomed many ships from the west and the east, including those transporting pottery and silk from Spain and Portugal to Asia.

Thus, islands around the port, especially in the Gulf of Thailand, became ideal bases for pirate gangs. Canh Buom Den was one of the most infamous, haunting trading ships until the early 20th century.

It is difficult to ascertain how much of the pirate stories we get to hear are true, but whatever happened in the past, it is true now that the telling and retelling of these stories keep visitors and residents entertained.

Life is very different from those days. The island is now home to more than 1,000 families who live mainly on fishing. There are schools, clinics and post offices, and the pleasant, peaceful island bears no resemblance to its popular name.

 GETTING THERE

Đốc and 15 other islands make up the Hai Tac (pirate) Archipelago. A landmark graved with the archipelago’s location and name can be found in the west side of Đốc. It was built in 1958.

Ha Tien is some 350 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. Tourists can take a direct bus to the town. Or go to Rach Gia Town by bus or by air, and then take a bus to Ha Tien, which is some 100 kilometers away.

Bus tickets to Ha Tien and Rach Gia can be bought at HCMC’s Mien Tay (Western) Bus Station – 395 Kinh Duong Vuong Street, Binh Tan District.

From Ha Tien, tourists can take a boat with the fare of VND36,000 ($1.7) per person, and reach Đốc more than one hour later. The boat leaves Ha Tien at 9:30 a.m. and returns at 3 p.m. every day.

Or, from Rach Gia, take hydrofoil. A one-way trip costs VND65,000 ($3.11) per person and takes 45-60 minutes. 

Viet Nam to organize four international travel marts in 2013

 

 

On March 5th 2013, in Ha Noi, Mr. Hoang Tuan Anh – Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MOCST) chaired a working session on preparation for organizing international travel marts in 2013.

Attending the working session were representatives of the departments of MOCST and the National Administration of Tourism; delegates from Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City and Khanh Hoa.

This is the first time four international travel marts will be organized in a year in Viet Nam: Viet Nam International Travel Mart in Ha Noi – VITM (from 18th to 21st April); International Sea Travel Mart in Nha Trang – ISTM (from 6th to 8th June); International Travel Exhibition in HCM City – ITE (from 12th to 14th September); Red River Delta Tourism Fair in Hai Phong (scheduled in October or November 2013). 

Nowadays, Southeast Asia is emerging as an attractive tourist destination, and Viet Nam is also a bright spot to attract tourists and investors. However, the tourism industry still faces some challenges due to consequences of global economic recession, limited tourism expenditure, increasing competition between destinations. The organization of international travel marts 2013 in Viet Nam is expected to create a breakthrough to promote the image of Viet Nam to the world.

In the working session, Minister Hoang Tuan Anh asked the provinces and cities to study the success and experience of ITE HCM City. The Minister directed that cuisine must be a highlight in all marts, in order to build brand of Vietnamese cuisine. The provinces and the cities should co-operate and help each other, co-ordinate with Vietnam Airlines and mass media to promote the marts, invite businesses to attend, as well as ensure the quality of the marts.

Minister Hoang Tuan Anh also pointed out that the organization of international travel marts aims at introducing the tourism potentials and products of the provinces, cities, and famous destinations of the country, attracting international visitors to Viet Nam. The marts thus should be considered products and brand of Viet Nam Tourism. The successful organization of the marts would contribute to confirming the position and capacity of Viet Nam tourism in organizing big international events. 

The representatives of the provinces and cities showed determination to organize successfully the marts in the year 2013 and prepare for annual organization to become a national tourism brand and promote the image of Viet Nam to the world. 

Source: VNTNews

 

Quang Ninh to tap heritage sites for development

 

 

Northern Quang Ninh province will develop three important heritage sites from next month until 2025 to promote their cultural values, contributing to the province's tourism and economy. 

According to Ho Chi Duc, head of the managing board of the key vestiges of Quang Ninh, the planning of the three complexes are among key developments to shift the province's economic focus from heavy industries towards the tourism and services industries. 

The Prime Minister has approved more than US$192 million for the plan, of which US$67 million is used to restore and promote the treasured Tran Dynasty historical complex in Dong Trieu district.

US$86 million will be invested to protect the natural landscape of Yen Tu, while the Bach Dang Victory historical site receives US$39 million to boost its tourism potential.

The investment is sourced from the State budget, local budgets, private funding and tourist fees received by the three sites. 

Encompassing more than 11,000ha in An Sinh, Trang An, Thuy An and Binh Khe communes, the Tran dynasty complex is home to tombs of eight kings. As one of the most important memorials in Vietnam, the complex was listed as a national cultural and historical vestige in 1962. 

The sacred land of Yen Tu in Quang Yen consists of five sections, including the heritage site, service area, social facilities, management and residential areas. It has become known for its 1,000m Yen Tu mountain and the birthplace of the Truc Lam (Bamboo Forest) Zen sect. 

Covering 20,000ha, it attracts many tourists and pilgrims from all over the country.

Last week, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism proposed to the Prime Minister that the site be submitted to UNESCO for world cultural heritage. 

Covering 380ha in Uong Bi City, the former Bach Dang battle site recalls the victory of the Vietnamese people under the Tran dynasty over the third Yuan-Mongol invasion in 1288 along the Bach Dang River. 

Both the Yen Tu and Bach Dang sites were recognised as Special National Heritage sites last September.

Source: VNA/VOV online 

 

Int’l friends visit Co Loa Relics

 

Over 200 international delegates took part in a friendship spring travel to Co Loa Relics in Hanoi on March 9.

They included ambassadors, representatives of diplomatic missions, international and non-governmental organizations, bilateral friendship associations between Vietnam and other countries. 

Within the event, co-organized by the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) of Hanoi city and the Dong Anh district’s People’s Committee, the delegates visited Co Loa ancient citadel known as a special national relic certificate, offered incense to King An Duong Vuong and planted trees in the relic area. 

Later, they watched a water puppet show in Dao Thuc village, Thuy Lam commune, Dong Anh district and had exchanges with the artists.   

VUFO Hanoi President Dao Van Binh emphasized that the annual spring festival aims to introduce international friends to beautiful relics in Vietnam, especially Hanoi. 

Katherine Muller, head of the UNESCO Hanoi Office, believed that such events will contribute to strengthening friendship, cooperation and mutual understanding between Vietnam and international friends. 

Source: VOV

 

Heritage sites set for development

Northern Quang Ninh Province will develop three important heritage sites from next month until 2025.

 

Pilgrimage: Tourists visit the Hoa Yen pagoda where the King/monk Tran Nhan Tong lived during his final years

Ho Chi Duc, head of the managing board of the key vestiges of Quang Ninh, the project aims to promote the values of the sites, contributing to the province's tourism and economy.

The planning of the three complexes are among key developments to shift the province's economic focus from heavy industries towards the tourism and services industry.

The Prime Minister has approved more than VND4,000 billion (US$192 million) for the development.

Of this, $67 million is allocated to restore and promote the treasured Tran Dynasty historical complex in Dong Trieu District. As much as US$86 million will be invested to protect the natural landscape of Yen Tu. The Bach Dang Victory historical site receives $39 million to boost its tourism potential.

The investment is sourced from the State budget, local budgets, private funding and tourist fees received by the three sites.

Encompassing more than 11,000ha in An Sinh, Trang An, Thuy An and Binh Khe communes, the Tran dynasty complex is home to tombs of eight kings. Famous as one of the most important memorials in Vietnam, the complex was listed as a national cultural and historical vestige in 1962.

The sacred land of Yen Tu in Quang Yen consists of five sections, including the heritage site, service area, social facilities, management and residential areas. It has become known for its 1,000m Yen Tu mountain and the birthplace of the Truc Lam (Bamboo Forest) Zen sect. Covering 20,000ha, it attracts many tourists and pilgrims from all over the country. It is planned each year make the site a centre for Buddhism and the Truc Lam sect.

Last week, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism proposed to the Prime Minister that the site be submitted to UNESCO for world cultural heritage.

Covering 380ha in Uong Bi City, the former Bach Dang battle site recognises the victory of the Vietnamese people under the Tran dynasty over the third Yuan-Mongol invasion in 1288 along the Bach Dang River.

Both the Yen Tu and Bach Dang sites were recognised as Special National Heritage site last September.

Folk woodcut printing awarded national heritage

 

 

The making of Dong Ho folk woodcut painting in the northern province of Bac Ninh has been recognized as part of the national intangible cultural heritage. 

This was revealed by Nguyen Van Phong, Director of the Bac Ninh provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism on March 6. 

The making of Dong Ho folk woodcut painting has its roots in Song Ho commune, Thuan Thanh district.

Traditionally, Dong Ho painting, which reflected a wide range of themes, especially good luck wishes, historical figures, and folk allegories, was part of the essential decorations in each Vietnamese family during the traditional Tet (lunar New Year) festival.

According to the villagers, the making of Dong Ho painting dates back to the 11th century during the reign of the Ly dynasty (1009-1225). However, researchers said the craft began under the rule of the Le dynasty (1428-1788). 

In making the painting, Dong Ho craftsmen used raw materials from nature, including making sheets of printing papers from bark of “do” tree and creating colors from earth, burnt bamboo leaves, sea shell. 

After printing, the finished painting was covered with a layer of rice paste to strengthen the durability of its illustration and colors and afterwards dried under the sun. 

As the traditional craft has faded with time, efforts have been made to preserve it, with Nguyen Dang Che and Nguyen Huu Sam, two of the few remaining experienced craftsmen of the village establishing their own Dong Ho painting centers. 

The recognition is expected to help preserve and develop the printing art while increasing public’s awareness of traditional cultural values.

Source: VNA

 

Ancient Loc Vung forest of Quang Binh

A village in the central province of Quang Binh has thousands of Loc Vung Barringtonia acutangula trees worth hundreds of billions of VND in total.

The forest is located in Phu Tho Village, An Thuy Commune, Le Thuy District.

Local residents, including the elders, have no idea about the age of the forest. They only know that it has been there throughout living memory. They say that the forest has protected the village from storms, hidden them during wartime and provided shelter for the people.

This forest has been preserved over many generations even though the price of this kind of wood has increased sharply. Some traders in the village were willing to buy trees around the village at tens of billions of VND. Estimates of the value of the wood contained in the forest are in the hundreds of billions of VND. But the villagers decided not to exploit it, as they consider it their treasure and their "lung".

Under the village regulation, anyone who damages the forest will be strictly dealt with. The village security force recently caught an illegal logger, who was imprisoned. The man's family was obliged to find another tree from somewhere else to replace the one he had cut down.

 

 

Road to the forest

 

Green duckweeds

 

Resemblance to a lying buffalo?

 

Large Loc Vung trees

 

 

Beihai-Ha Long Bay tourist route to launch in April

 

 

A maritime tourist route between Beihai in the Chinese province of Guangxi and Ha Long Bay in Vietnam’s northern province of Quang Ninh is to start operating early this April.

On March 5, high-speed cruise liner Beiyou 16 with 22-member crew on board safely docked at Tuan Chau port, the departing site for Ha Long Bay trip, to test-run the service. 

Following the trial run, the first three-hour voyage will operate on the route this April with two trips carrying 800 passengers on average each a week. 

The new service is expected to promote tourism and marine transport in Ha Long Bay, the world heritage site and wonder. It will offer the two countries a chance to boost bilateral trade and introduce their cultures in a more rapid, convenient and safe way.

Source: VOV

 

Vietnam Airlines offers 27 percent discounts on Europe flights

 

 

The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines is offering a 27 percent discount off ticket prices for a number of flights to selected European nations.

Under the sale, a return ticket from Vietnam to Frankfurt or London costs only US$550, and to Paris at US$600 (both prices exclude fees and taxes).  The discount programme is in effect from now until March 30. 

Singapore Airlines has also announced economy class airfare discounts on flights to Europe departing from HCM City, Hanoi, and Da Nang between March 1 and July 30. 

Singapore Airlines is selling return tickets to Europe for VND22.3 million (US$1,067), including tax, from now until April 15.

Source: VOV

 

Fostering tourism promotion in Ninh Binh

 

 

Ninh Binh, located in the south of the Northern Delta, 90km from Hanoi,  is endowed with unique landscapes such as Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Trang An Grottoes, Van Long Nature Reserve and Cuc Phuong National Park with diversified fauna and flora.

Ninh Binh was also once the capital of Dai Co Viet (now Viet Nam) from 968 to 1010 with a lot of historical cultural and religious relics gathered in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Ninh Binh is famous for Phat Diem Cathedral, Bai Dinh Pagoda Non Nuoc Pagoda, etc. These are favorable conditions for the development of Ninh Binh Tourism.  

In the recent years, Ninh Binh Tourism has been growing fast. During the period from 2007 to 2011, the average growth of number of tourists to Ninh Binh was 24.58% annually, total tourism receipts growth being 60.55% annually. In 2011, there were 3.6 million tourist arrivals to Ninh Binh, total tourism receipts reached 655 billion VND. In 2012, there were over 3.7 million tourist arrivals to Ninh Binh, up 14.1 % over 2011, total tourism receipts reached 728 billion VND.

To gain these results, in the past years, tourism promotion has always been paid attention. Ninh Binh has built its symbol and slogan “Charming Ninh Binh” which helps to promote the brand and the image of Ninh Binh tourism consistently and professionally. Advertising and promoting activities have been organized in diversified forms.

Regarding tourism promotion activities, in 2012, Ninh Binh took part in the International Tourism Fair in Ho Chi Minh City (ITE 2012); organized famtrips to survey tourist areas in Ninh Binh to develop tourism products; signed tourism cooperation agreements with 10 provinces and cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Thua Thien Hue and Can Tho in order to strengthen and exchange information as well as co-ordinate and participate in joint domestic and overseas tourism promotion campaigns; joined the field trip along East-West economic corridor and the International Conference "Cooperation for tourism and economic development in East-West economic corridor " in Quang Tri; participated in workshop on “Demand and development trend of international tourists to Vietnam”; promoted activities of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Department on the web portal ninhbinhtourism.com.vn in 3 languages English, French, Vietnamese. 

Not only paying attention to promoting the tourism image of the province within the country, Ninh Binh has outlined plans to promote tourism in key markets as Western Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand and Northeast Asia… via tourism publications in several languages: English, French, Japanese, Chinese which are suitable for the characteristics of each market. In 2012, Ninh Binh also joined Thailand Travel Mart Plus (TTM +); took part in the roadshow and international tourism fair of JATA in Japan ... In these events, Ninh Binh focused on promoting the global outstanding values of Trang An landscapes. Through the publications in Japanese, English and French languages as tourist Guidebook; Ninh Binh Tourism Map, leaflets, brochures, CD-ROM…, the unique images of cultural and ecological tourism of Ninh Binh were also introduced. 

By 2015, Ninh Binh targets to welcome 6 million tourist arrivals, including 1 million international arrivals; attract 1 million overnight arrivals, of which 350,000 are international ones. It is expected that from 2015 onwards, the average growth rate of tourist arrivals is 10% per year; Total tourism receipts by 2015 reach 1,500 billion VND,  and accounts for over 10% of the province's GDP from 2020 onwards.

To achieve these aims, in the coming time, Ninh Binh will continue to push up tourism promotion, concentrating in the key markets, trying to develop Ninh Binh to become one of the tourist hubs of the country. 

Source: TITC 

 

Some tips for female travelers in Indochina!

The International Women's Day is coming! It is time for you to the woman whom you admire and respect through show your love, gratitude and appreciation.

On this occassion, ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA wishes all female travelers in this world:  “Wishing you’ll get everything to take the world  in your stride. Happy woman’s day! “

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA wishes you a Happy woman's day!

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA recommends some tips for female travelers in Indochina:

• Female travellers in Vietnam

Vietnam has been strongly influenced by Confucianism, so men regard women as subservient, as do most women. It doesn’t really affect female travellers, apart from an almost universal assumption that a male companion will automatically be the one in charge, and therefore the one to be addressed. Attempting to be politically correct is likely to be met with blank incomprehension.

Your manner of dress and behaviour is important. It’s a common belief among Vietnamese men that ‘western women’ are very liberated, and therefore an easy lay! This belief will be strengthened if you wear ‘sexy’ clothes, and you may well attract unwelcome attention. Ostentatious ‘male’ behaviour, such as drinking beer and/or smoking, will also help to confirm that you are available.

For this reason, it’s wise to avoid tight shorts, hot pants, figure-hugging tops and low cut blouses. Teeny bikinis are not a good idea, and topless sunbathing immediately attracts a crowd of male admirers who will stand and stare at you. It’s also highly likely to land you in trouble with police.`

Apart from the behaviour of men, Vietnamese women are embarrassed when visitors expose large areas of flesh. They’re also perplexed about why anyone would wish to sunbathe – in Vietnam, a white skin is considered beautiful by men and women. A sun tan identifies you as a peasant.

Single women travellers tend to attract more notice, as Vietnamese women seldom travel, and those that do seldom travel alone. However, providing you don’t call attention to yourself by your appearance and ignore would-be admirers, the most you’ll get is minor nuisances from time to time.

• Female travellers in Cambodia and Laos

Even though Cambodia has taken on aspects of the Thai sex trade, Kh’mer men have a reputation for politeness and courtesy towards women. Because prostitution is a serious offence in Laos, and is therefore much less common than in Vietnam, Laos is probably the least likely country in Asia for you to encounter sexual harassment.

Laotian men are less likely to associate a women drinking alcohol or smoking with being a prostitute. However, the advice about dressing appropriately and not drawing attention to yourself holds good in both countries.

• Practical issues

You’ll find it quite hard to find tampons in Vietnam, so it’s wise to bring a supply with you. Toiletries here are mostly low-quality, and non-allergic products are as rare as snow in June.

Clothes are plentiful and cheap, but most tailor-made garments are designed to fit the Vietnamese frame. Ethnic minority materials and garments are very attractive, but often not colourfast.

If you’re likely to be riding on the back of a motorbike, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of trousers. The alternative is to sit side-saddle, which is quite scary if you’re not used to it.

• Health issues

The humid climate prevalent throughout Indochina encourages the growth of vaginal fungal infections such as thrush and candidia. Antibiotics, tights, synthetic material and the contraceptive pill can exacerbate the condition.

If you’re prone to such infections, it might be wise to consult you doctor for suitable medication in advance, or douche regularly with a weak solution of lemon juice or vinegar. Loose fitting silk or linen garments and cotton underwear should help towards preventing discomfort.

Early kite flying season in Can Tho City

As the wind starts to blow in Can Tho City hundreds have started to fly their kites around Hau River Park daily for pleasure.

 

Hundreds fly their kites around Hau River Park daily for pleasure 

Nguyen Thi Thanh Trang, who sells kites at Xuan Khanh Market, said, “Even though the kite season doesn't usually peak until March, I and several others decided to start selling right after Tet because of the early winds."

According to Trang, this year prices for large kites have increased by between VND10,000 and VND15,000 (USD0.50-USD0.70), and smaller ones by between VND3,000 and VND5,000 (USD0.14-USD0.23).

People often gather around Can Tho University’s stadium, or Quang Trung and Con Khuong Bridges to fly kites, but Hau River Park seems to have become the most attractive spot, often seeing 500 to 600 people every day, and sometimes as many as 1,000.

Hau is part of a sort of informal kite search and rescue group, who find lost kites and resell them. Last year he said he earned VND70,000-100,000 (USD3.34-USD4.78) a day, but is worried about more competitors this year. 

“I can make anywhere from VND10,000 to 20,000 (USD0.50-USD0.95) finding a kite. We sell them at about half the price they would cost new,” Hau said.

Larger kites, higher prices

Park crowded over weekend

Kite retrial group

On-spot kite repair

Good business for tea stands

Cultural diplomacy brings VN closer to the world

 

 

The Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO (UNESCO Vietnam) will organise more cultural activities this year to further heighten Vietnam’s position in the world arena.

The Commission’s plan will get a lending hand from the Department of Culture, External Relations and UNESCO of the Foreign Ministry. 

UNESCO Vietnam’s General Secretary Pham Cao Phong said the year 2013 will be a milestone year to promote Vietnam ’s images to the world through a series of Vietnamese week events. 

“We will partner with Vietnamese relevant agencies in Italy, Canada and Japan to launch Vietnamese weeks there,” added Phong, who is also Head of the Department of Culture, External Relations and UNESCO. 

He underlined the important role played by cultural diplomacy in furthering the country’s relationship with other countries.

Phong also talked about a plan to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage to be held in the northern province of Quang Ninh as an important event of cultural diplomacy this year. 

He stressed the need to pay more attention to raising public awareness of cultural diplomacy as a foundation for development. 

Reviewing the sector’s achievements in 2012, Phong mentioned a broad range of activities, such as the inauguration of statues of President Ho Chi Minh in Argentina, Laos and Thailand, and the organisation of friendship year marking Vietnam’s relations with Laos, Cambodia and the Republic of Korea.

Last year, Vietnam gained UNESCO’s recognition for its two more heritages, including Buddhist Sutras-printed woodblocks kept in Vinh Nghiem Pagoda in the northern province of Bac Giang and the worship rituals dedicated to Hung Kings in the central midland province of Phu Tho.

Source: VNA

 

Vietnam's way with a French baguette is fusion at its best

In the culinary world the term fusion has come to have a less than positive connotation. That said, the evolution of food around the world has had a lot to do with cross-cultural exchange and you don't have to delve too far into food history to discover that most foods have been influenced over the centuries as a result of the opening up of trade routes or migration.

One such example of this is the Vietnamese banh mi sandwich.

Imagine a fluffy French-style baguette stuffed with a variety of meat and soy fillings like roast pork belly, soy-braised chicken, Vietnamese sausage or grilled pork and then served with pickled vegetables like carrot or daikon, a generous quantity of Asian herbs such as coriander and mint and of course a good lacing of spicy chilli sauce and/or fresh chilli.

Other flavourings and fillings can include pork floss, pork pate, soft meatballs, tofu, grilled chicken, chicken floss, mayonnaise or Maggi seasoning; the choices seem endless.

It's the perfect fusion of Vietnamese and French flavours. Despite the fact that Vietnam has been independent of French rule for almost 60 years, banh mi remains a staple throughout the country and thanks to the influx of Vietnamese immigrants to our shores in recent years, we too can appreciate the joys of it.

The name banh mi actually refers to the bread component of the dish. It would be more accurate to call the banh mi you see here banh mi thit, thit meaning meat. Regardless of what you call it, there's no denying this is one of the most flavoursome sandwiches you're likely to come across.

In terms of preparation the amount of work involved is up to you. You could roast your own pork, or pick some up from a Chinese barbecue shop instead. The same goes for the mayonnaise - if you're not inclined to make your own, a good quality store-bought one will do just fine. Try to find a Vietnamese bakery for the perfect crackle-crusted, single-serve baguettes - they're easier to find than you may think.

You may be able to find pickled carrot in Asian grocers but it's a simple prospect to make a quick batch yourself. Cut a carrot or two into matchsticks, mix with a teaspoon of salt, leave until slightly softened and then rinse. Meanwhile, bring equal quantities of white vinegar and water to the boil, add sugar to taste (for 1 cup of vinegar I'd add a couple of teaspoons of sugar) and pour over the carrots. Leave for an hour and drain before using.

Alternatively you can make a bigger batch and store them in a sterile container in the fridge for up to one month keeping them in the brine. That way, you're a step ahead for the next time you get a craving for banh mi. Because believe me, you most definitely will.

Matt Moran is co-owner/chef of ARIA, 1 Macquarie St, Circular Quay, ariarestaurant.com, 9252 2555; Chiswick, 65 Ocean St, Woollahra, chiswickrestaurant.com .au, 8388 8688

BANH MI VIETNAMESE SANWDICH

Ingredients

4 small baguettes
100g pate (of your choice)
4tbs mayonnaise
250g roast or barbecued pork (sliced)
1 Lebanese cucumber (sliced)
50g pickled carrot
1 red chilli (sliced)
1/2 bunch coriander (picked)
chilli sauce (optional)
4 eggs
peanut oil for frying

Method

1. Split the fresh baguettes in half and smear the pate on one side of the bread, smear the other side with the mayonnaise, arrange slices of the pork onto the bread and then the cucumber. Mix the pickled carrot, chilli and coriander together and fill the sandwich with the salad.

2. Heat the pan over a high heat until very hot then add the oil, crack the eggs into the pan (the eggs should bubble and crisp quite quickly), cook for one minute before turning over and cooking again for another 30 seconds to 1 minute depending on how well you like your eggs cooked.

3. Place one egg in each of the baguettes, drizzle the chilli sauce over the top and serve.

Scientific research sought for Chau Van dossier

 

 

The national Chau Van (spiritual singing) festival has gathered more scientific grounds for the compilation of a dossier seeking UNESCO’s recognition of the traditional singing genre as an Intangible Culture Heritage of Humanity. 

The festival, which wrapped up in Sam Son town, the central province of Thanh Hoa, on February 27, saw performances selected from 11 cities and provinces known for the fork art, such as Thai Binh, Nam Dinh, Dong Nai, Hanoi and Binh Phuoc.

Chau Van was created during the Tran Dynasty (1225-1400) and northern Nam Dinh province is considered its birthplace. 

The highly rhythmic and trance-oriented form of singing often accompanies “hau dong” (mediumship) during the rituals to honor the Mother Goddesses and connect to other gods. It is performed mostly at temples and pagodas.

The music and poetry performed in the folk art are mingled with a variety of rhythms, pauses, tempos, stresses and pitches. The genre has also adopted folk songs from the uplands and highlands of the North, Centre and South. The main musical instrument used in the genre is Dan Nguyet or moon-shaped lute. 

Earlier, the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism put Chau Van in the list of national intangible cultural heritages.

Vietnam now has six examples of world intangible heritage listed by UNESCO, including Hue's royal court music, Gong space culture in the Tay Nguyen (Central Highlands), the northern province of Bac Ninh's love duet singing, the Giong festival, Ca Tru ceremonial singing and Xoan singing.

Source: VNA

 

Solo 2,000-mile trek along Ho Chi Minh trail by Norfolk-born woman adventurer

A north Norfolk-born woman is heading off on a solo trip along the Ho Chi Minh trail - on a moped.

Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent (right) and Jo Huxster who did a 12,500 mile trip in a tuk tuk from Bangkok to brighton. Picture: IAN BURTAntonia Bolingbroke-Kent (right) and Jo Huxster who did a 12,500 mile trip in a tuk tuk from Bangkok to brighton.

As well as being an adventure, which she will turn into a book, the 2,000-mile journey along the legendary jungle trail which was heavily bombed in the Vietnam war, will raise funds for a mines awareness charity.

Antonia “Ants” Bolingbroke-Kent has tackled treks before - including a moped journey around the Black Sea and taking a tuk tuk three-wheeled taxi from Bangkok to Brighton.

But both of those saw her travelling with a partner. This time the trip is alone - needing extra preparation, and adding some nerves to the excitement.

Miss Bolingbroke-Kent, who was born at Wickmere near Aylsham and whose parents live in the Holt area, said: “I have been taking lessons on how to mend my moped in the middle of the jungle.

“There are risk - with 32 types of dangerous snakes, spiders and lots of unexploded cluster bombs. You won’t want to be nipping into the jungle to go to the toilet.

Ants is a TV producer, who last year visited the area to make the BBC World’s Most Dangerous Roads documentary with Liza Tarbuck and Sue Perkins. And she has also helped organise other people’s adventures as a business in the past. But she admits this is her own biggest challenge so far - because it is solo.

“While I am a relative veteran of ridiculous adventures in unfeasible vehicles, this will be the first time I have gone solo. For someone who barely knows a spanner from a mole grip and is terrified of spiders, snakes and the dark, it could be quite a challenge. I’ll have to learn to survive on my wits, fix the bike when it grinds to a halt in the middle of a large river and sleep in a jungle inhabited by elephants,” added the 34-year-old, who currently lives in Bristol.

She sets off from Hanoi on her secondhand, 20-year-old pink-painted Honda C90 on Friday and should be home at the end of April, having passed through mountains and remote jungle of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos along the way.

The trip will raise money for the Mines Advisory Group (MAG). a UK-based charity which works to clear mines and ordnance all over the world.

To chart her progress follow a blog on her website www.theitinerant.co.uk, on Twitter at @AntsBK or facebook.com/AntsBK.

Kazakhstan-Ho Chi Minh City air route opens

 

 

Air Astana officially launched its air route linking the city of Almaty in Kazakhstan and Ho Chi Minh City on March 1.

The airline will conduct two flights per week on Wednesdays and Fridays, served by Boeing 757s with six business class and 150 economy class seats.

Flights departing from Almaty to Ho Chi Minh City via the Thai capital Bangkok will take nine hours. Total flight time is only seven hours for passengers departing from Ho Chi Minh City to Almaty. 

Air Astana Chairman Peter Poster said his airline is prioritizing expanding its flight network in Asia. 

He expressed hopes that Ho Chi Minh City’s numerous tourist attractions will attract large numbers of visitors from Kazakhstan and its neighboring countries.

Air Astana is currently operating more than 50 international and domestic air routes.

Source: VOV

 

Cloudy Sapa attracts visitors

During this season Sapa becomes more attractive to visitors for its mystic, cloud-shrouded scenery.

Both professional and amateur photographers come to the town to capture the stunning beauty that comes after the winter cold is gone and the sun begins to sporadically appear, usually about two weeks after Tet.

Photographers often gather at Ham Rong Moutain behind the Stone Church, the road to Hang Da Hamlet located in Muong Hoa Valley or on the top of O Quy Ho Mountain Pass to find the perfect shot.

Among those is Hoang The Nhiem, who is considered by many to be “the King of Vietnamese landscapes”. He is very interested in taking photos of Sapa when it is misty. He visits the mountain town every spring for this.

 

 

 

Both professional and amateur photographers come to the town to capture the stunning beauty

 

Local people are also cloud gaze