Unveil Must-Visit Attractions in Northern Vietnam Tour 2024

The region of Northern Vietnam is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, historical attractions, and culturally diverse population. If you are planning a trip to Northern Vietnam in 2024, the following is a list of the top attractions that you should consider visiting:

Firstly, Hanoi, the Charming Capital City

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay a visit to the spot where the revolutionary leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, is laid to rest before his death.

Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter, which is located in the center of Hanoi’s historic district, and discover its winding lanes, historical buildings, and lively street markets.

Visit the Temple of Literature to learn about Vietnam’s first national university, which is a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

UNESCO has designated Halong Bay as a World Heritage Site.

Embark on a tour in Halong Bay to take in the spectacular karst structures, caverns, and green waters that can be found there.

Sung Sot Cave is one of the most spectacular caverns in Halong Bay, and it is also one of the largest caves in the area.

Titop Island invites visitors to ascend to the peak of the island to take in breathtaking vistas of Halong Bay.

Sapa, the Mountainous Beauty of the North

You can hike up Fansipan Peak or use a cable car to reach the “Roof of Indochina” for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

During your visit to the Muong Hoa Valley Rice Terraces, you will get the opportunity to engage with the local ethnic minority populations and the breathtaking terraced landscapes.

During your time in Cat Cat Village, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the distinctive culture of the Hmong ethnic group.

Mai Chau: An Immersion in the Local Culture

The Mai Chau Valley is a beautiful place to visit, where you can take in the sights of the rice paddies and traditional stilt houses that surround it.

Engage with the local Thai communities, which are well-known for their warm hospitality and traditional handicrafts, when visiting Thai ethnic minority villages.

Tam Coc, also known as “Halong Bay on Land”

Cruise along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc, passing past limestone karsts and rice farms as you make your way through the area.

Discover the Bich Dong Pagoda, which is comprised of a number of caverns and pagodas that are situated against the backdrop of breathtaking natural environment.

Go further to Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, you may explore the natural splendor of Ninh Binh by taking a boat ride among caverns and rice fields.

Discover the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, which dates back to the 10th century and is known as the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Ha Giang, often known as “Off the Beaten Path”

Discover a UNESCO Global Geopark that is home to distinctive geological formations and the cultures of ethnic minority groups by visiting the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.

This mountain route, known as Ma Pi Leng route, is considered to be among the most stunning mountain crossings in Vietnam.

Ba Be Lake, a Retreat in the Natural World

Take a boat ride on Ba Be Lake to discover the largest natural lake in Vietnam, which is surrounded by limestone mountains and verdant woods from all sides.

Take a trip to Puong Cave, a massive cave that is home to a significant number of bats.

This schedule provides a variety of diverse experiences, including natural wonders, historical places, and cultural activities. Personalize it in accordance with your preferences and the interests of your readers, and offer travel advice that will make your Vietnam tours 2024 more delightful.

Discovering the Enchantment of Halong Bay: Where Legends and Beauty Converge

Nestled in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the northeastern coast of Vietnam, lies a natural wonder that has captivated the hearts of travelers for generations – Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true testament to the intricate work of nature and a rich tapestry of history and legend. With its stunning limestone karsts, emerald waters, and captivating tales, Halong Bay offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion. In this article, we will delve into the legend of Halong Bay and explore the top 5 activities that make it a must-visit destination for every traveler.

The Legend of Halong Bay: A Tale of Dragons and Blessings

Every remarkable place has a story that weaves together myth and reality, and Halong Bay is no exception. According to local legend, Halong Bay was formed by dragons descending from the heavens to protect the Vietnamese people from invaders. The dragons spat out jewels and jade, which turned into the towering limestone islands that dot the bay. These islands acted as a natural barrier, ultimately helping the Vietnamese repel the invaders. The name “Halong” itself translates to “Descending Dragon.”

This legend is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture and is celebrated through various festivals and events. Visitors can witness reenactments of the dragon’s descent and learn about the significance of the bay’s creation in local lore.

Top 5 Activities to Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Halong Bay

1.      Cruise Through Nature’s Masterpiece:

One of the best ways to explore Halong Bay is by taking a cruise. Sail through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone pillars covered in lush greenery. The bay is dotted with over 1,600 islands and islets, each with its own unique shape and character. A cruise allows you to soak in the breathtaking landscapes, capturing the essence of the dragon’s creation. Don’t miss the chance to witness the sunrise or sunset over the bay – a sight that will remain etched in your memory forever.

2.      Kayak Amidst Mystical Caves and Grottoes:

Halong Bay is home to numerous hidden caves and grottoes waiting to be explored. Hop into a kayak and paddle your way through these ancient geological formations. One of the most famous sites is Sung Sot Cave, also known as the Surprise Cave. As you enter this colossal cavern, you’ll be awestruck by the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that adorn its interior. The play of light and shadow within the cave adds to its enchanting atmosphere.

3.      Engage in Local Culture:

To truly understand a destination, connecting with its local culture is essential. Halong Bay offers the opportunity to interact with the fishing communities that have thrived here for centuries. Take a traditional bamboo boat to a floating fishing village and witness the daily lives of the fishermen. Learn about their fishing techniques, visit floating schools, and even try your hand at casting a fishing net. Engaging with the locals provides a deeper insight into the symbiotic relationship they share with the bay.

4.      Indulge in Gastronomic Delights:

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its balance of flavors and use of fresh ingredients. During your visit to Halong Bay, savor the culinary treasures of the region. Indulge in seafood feasts featuring the day’s catch, from succulent prawns to delectable crab. Don’t miss out on trying iconic dishes like pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (baguette sandwich) at local markets. The unique blend of flavors will tantalize your taste buds and offer a true taste of Vietnam.

5.      Explore Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay:

Adjacent to Halong Bay lies Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay, equally captivating and slightly less crowded. Cat Ba Island is the largest in the bay and offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the island’s lush landscapes. Lan Ha Bay, often referred to as a hidden gem, boasts pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Exploring these areas allows for a more intimate experience with the natural beauty of the region.

Halong Bay –  Where Legends and Beauty Converge

Halong Bay, with its blend of myth and magnificence, stands as a testament to the wonders nature can create. The legend of the descending dragon and the breathtaking karst formations have drawn travelers seeking beauty and tranquility for generations. From cruising through emerald waters to engaging with local communities, every moment in Halong Bay offers a chance to immerse yourself in its charm. As you stand amidst the limestone pillars, you’ll find yourself not only witnessing the dragon’s creation but becoming a part of its ongoing story. Halong Bay, a place where legends and beauty converge, awaits your discovery.

Why Visit Vietnam – Things to Do and Best Time to See

Vietnam is a vibrant and exotic destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. From breathtaking natural beauty to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, there are countless reasons to visit this incredible country.If you’re a history buff, Vietnam is a must-visit destination. The country has a rich and complex history, with influences from China, France, and America. From exploring historic landmarks like the ancient city of Hoi An and the Cu Chi Tunnels to learning about the country’s struggle for independence at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, there is no shortage of fascinating historical sites to discover.

Nature lovers will also be in awe of Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. From the towering peaks of the north to the lush Mekong Delta in the south, there is an abundance of natural beauty to explore. Highlights include the otherworldly limestone formations of Halong Bay, the picturesque rice terraces of Sapa, and the stunning waterfalls of Dalat.

Of course, no visit to Vietnam would be complete without experiencing the country’s incredible cuisine. From the iconic pho soup to delicious banh mi sandwiches and fresh seafood, Vietnam’s food is a true feast for the senses. The country is also famous for its coffee culture, with countless cafes and street vendors serving up delicious cups of coffee.

Finally, Vietnam is known for its warm and welcoming people. From bustling cities to rural villages, you’ll always be greeted with a smile and a friendly hello. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or lounging on a beach, you’ll find that the people of Vietnam are always happy to offer their hospitality and share their culture with visitors.

In short, there are countless reasons to visit Vietnam. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, this incredible country is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Best Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country that offers an array of exciting activities and experiences for travelers. From exploring ancient temples to trying out delicious street food, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do when you travel to Vietnam:

1. Explore the stunning natural beauty of Ha Long Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and numerous caves and islets.

2. Visit the historic city of Hoi An and wander through its charming streets lined with colorful lanterns. You can also shop for traditional handicrafts and sample local delicacies.

3. Take a walk through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll find a mix of modern skyscrapers and French colonial architecture. Don’t forget to visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam’s tumultuous past.

4. Sample the delicious street food that Vietnam is famous for. From pho to banh mi, there are plenty of dishes to try that will tantalize your taste buds.

5. Trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa and experience the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside. You can also interact with local communities and learn about their way of life.

6. Marvel at the impressive architecture of Hue’s Imperial City, which was once the seat of the Nguyen dynasty. You’ll find numerous temples, palaces, and tombs here that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history.

7. Take a boat ride along the Mekong Delta and explore the lush waterways and floating markets. You can also visit local villages and learn about the traditional crafts and customs of the region.

With so much to see and do, Vietnam is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Southeast Asia.

Best Time to do Vietnam tours

Vietnam is a beautiful country that offers a diverse range of experiences to its visitors. From stunning beaches to vibrant cities, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this Southeast Asian gem. But when is the best time to do Vietnam tours? The answer largely depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re after sun, sea and sand, the summer months of June to August are ideal for a trip to the coastal regions of central and southern Vietnam, such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. These areas offer warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for lazy days spent lounging on the beach.

For those interested in exploring Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, the autumn months of September to November are a great time to visit. During this time, the weather is pleasant and mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City come alive during this time, with festivals and events celebrating Vietnam’s history and culture.

If you’re an adventure seeker, the winter months of December to February are the best time to visit Vietnam. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for trekking and exploring the country’s stunning natural landscapes, such as Sapa and Ha Long Bay. It’s also a great time to experience the Tet Festival, Vietnam’s most important holiday, which usually falls in late January or early February.

In summary, the best time to visit Vietnam depends on your interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, cultural experience or adventure, Vietnam has something to offer year-round. Plan your trip accordingly and you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this beautiful country.

Discover The Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area of Laos

The Phou Khao Khouay National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area is one of the most beautiful parts of Laos. It boasts a diverse array of animal and plant species, and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore some of the most remarkable and unique ecosystems of this region. For those looking to explore the area, there are countless things to do. One of the best activities is to take a guided tour of the area. An experienced guide will be able to provide you with an in-depth look into the area, and help you learn more about the region’s rich history.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, why not try your hand at some of the activities available in the area? From fishing and kayaking to bird watching and biking, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and entertained.

If you’re looking to connect with nature, you can take a hike or a walk through the forest. You may even find yourself stumbling across some of the area’s rare species, such as the Siamese Elephant.

If you’re looking for a bit of fresh air and relaxation, take a leisurely boat ride down the river. You can also take a walk through the villages, where you can learn more about the culture and lifestyle of the local people. There are also plenty of places to eat and shop in the area. Enjoy some traditional Lao food, or try something new. Whatever your interest, you will find plenty of activities to do in Phou Khao Khouay National Park or Bio-Diversity Conservation Area. So what are you waiting for? Get out and explore this amazing part of the world! You won’t be disappointed.

Discover the Essentials of Luang Prabang Laos

We begin our trip to Laos with Luang Prabang, the former royal capital. This small town of around 50,000 inhabitants is located in northern Laos and is surrounded by the Mekong and the Nam Khan River. Due to its tourist popularity, we were pleasantly surprised to discover a peaceful town that has kept its authenticity and where it is pleasant to stroll through its quiet little streets.

What characterizes Luang Prabang is the mix of its architecture, between traditional wooden houses and colonial buildings, as well as magnificent Buddhist temples. The center of Luang Prabang Old City is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As far as we are concerned, we really enjoyed Luang Prabang. It is even one of our favorite cities in Asia. To fully enjoy this city, we advise you to devote at least three days to it. This is the duration we had originally planned but we extended our stay to enjoy it a little more. Discover in this article the tourist activities that we prefer to visit Luang Prabang.

Discover the many temples of Luang Prabang

If there is something that is not lacking in Luang Prabang, it is the temples. You can find them on almost every street corner and they are almost all incredibly beautiful. The reason there are so many religious monuments is that Luang Prabang is the religious capital of Laos. The city is also home to a large community of monks.

• Among the must-see temples of Luang Prabang, we can mention:
• Vat Xieng Thong: considered the most important religious monument in the city;
• Vat Visoun: the oldest temple in Luang Prabang still in operation;
• Vat Mai: former temple of the royal family;
• Haw Pha Bang: served as a temple for the royal family during the 20th century.

Visit the Royal Palace of Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang was the royal capital of Laos until 1946. It is possible to visit the former Royal Palace, now transformed into a museum. It houses a large number of historical objects retracing the history of Laos during its royalty. Within the enclosure, you can also visit the Haw Pha Bang, a majestic golden temple.

Entrance to the museum costs 10,000 kips. You must have appropriate clothing, take off your shoes before entering and leave your bag in a locker. Photos are also prohibited inside.

Shop and eat at the Night Market

During our stay, one of our favorite activities was to go to the night market in Luang Prabang. It is located in the city center, next to the Royal Palace, and takes place every evening from 5 p.m. It has more than a hundred exhibitors and you can really find everything there: various handicrafts, Lao whiskey (with a snake or a scorpion inside the bottle), silver jewelry, clothes, traditional fabrics, and lots of other items to bring back as souvenirs. There are also stalls offering Lao food, international dishes, as well as pastries and smoothies. As far as we are concerned, it is one of our top Asian markets!

Watch the sunset on the banks of the Mekong

Throughout our trip to Southeast Asia, we have seen some beautiful sunsets. But those of Luang Prabang are certainly among the most beautiful we have seen! The best place to watch the sunset are the banks of the Mekong. There are also several restaurants/bars that have set up their terraces there. Which is pretty cool if you want to have an aperitif while enjoying the view!

Attend the Tak Bat (alms giving ceremony)

Every morning, the inhabitants of Luang Prabang get up around 5-6 a.m. to distribute food to the monks. They have indeed taken a vow of poverty and therefore depend on the faithful to feed themselves. Part of the offerings are often redistributed to the poor by the monks themselves.

The Tak Bat is an old Buddhist tradition and being able to attend it allows a real immersion in the daily life of the inhabitants. Unfortunately, there are tourists who do not respect this religious gesture and disturb the locals by their presence and incessant photo taking. If you attend the Tak Bat ceremony, respect the sanctity of this Laos tradition by being discreet.

Visiting Luang Prabang Old City is exactly one of best things to do in Laos.

Temple of Angkor Wat, the unique wonder of the world!

Angkor Wat is a symbol of Khmer culture, one of the seven wonders recognized by UNESCO. The temple astounds visitors both with its grandeur and grandeur as well as its astonishing architectural details. Today’s article will introduce you to the basic information about Angkor Wat so that you can better understand the temple.

Angkor Wat Temple – Unique Cambodian architecture

Not only will you share with visitors information about the location of Angkor Wat, but you will also learn more about the history of this mysterious temple. Angkor Wat Temple is located about 6km north of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat was built during the period of King Suryavarman II, in the first half of the 12th century. The area of ​​the whole complex extends over 400km2, running around the temple is a deep and wide moat. It is estimated that the circumference of Angkor Wat is up to 100km. With the original design built to worship Hinduism, but later due to the introduction and development of Buddhism, Angkor Wat turned to Buddhist worship.

Historically, Angkor Wat was abandoned and forgotten when the Khmer kings lost the battle and fled back to Phnom Penh. It was not until 1860 that a French explorer discovered and discovered this majestic Angkor Wat.

The temple architecture is modeled after the great Mount Meru of India, the highest central tower up to 65m represents the legendary Mount Meru, the five surrounding towers correspond to the five peaks. The entire structure is built of sandstone and honeycomb. Until now, people have not yet figured out how to build Angkor Wat. The towers, temples, reliefs and immense corridors are all made of boulders, stacked on top of each other to look very natural, even on top of the dome without any adhesive.

Angkor relic complex is the pride of Cambodian people. The two main temples are Angkor Wat (meaning De Thien temple) and Angkor Thom (meaning De Thich temple). These are two of the five temples of the most famous complex that you should go first if you do not have enough time to visit much.

Famous Angkor Temples to Explore in Cambodia Tours

There are 3 famous Temples of Angkor to explore in Cambodia Tours: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm.

Angkor Wat Temple

Angkor Wat Temple is the temple with the most monumental architecture in the entire complex, with the main entrance facing the West direction directly towards the setting sun. North is considered the direction of death, and many theories suggest that Angkor Wat was built with the purpose of being the tomb for the King. The outstanding architecture at Angkor Wat is the Apsara Dancer Relief. It is estimated that there are more than 3000 Apsara reliefs carved on the walls throughout the temples. The special thing is that each Apsara relief has its own special feature, with different hairstyles and gestures.

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom: the last capital of the Khmer empire. Angkor Thom owns outstanding temples and architecture such as the Bayon temple, Baphuon temple, Phnom Bakheng temple at the top of the hill, Elephant Terrace, Terrace of the Leper King and 5 large gates leading to Angkor Thom.

Among them, Bayon temple made the biggest impression. The highlight of the temple is the 200 giant stone faces. These faces are dubbed the ‘Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia’, with a total of 4 types, each with its own distinctive features pointing to the four main directions of East, West, South, and North.

Ta Prohm Temple

Little Circuit – this area has the most famous temple, the “old” Ta Prohm temple. Ta Prohm is a ruined temple, ruined but attractive by the presence of great tree roots crawling over the rocks like giant pythons. Tree roots have penetrated the rock’s structure for nearly a thousand years, creating an astonishing fusion of nature and architecture.

How Did The Khmers Bild Angkor?

Recently, scientists have discovered a unique way of ancient people in building Angkor Wat temple many times faster than expected.

Initially, it was thought that each block of rock was transported over a winding path of up to 55 miles (88km) over land, rivers and lakes. The process of transporting each of these arduous, arduous blocks will take at least 5 days: from the rocky mountain to a river leading to Tonle Sap Lake. They will then be transported by boat to the Siem Reap River and then towed onto the construction sites at Angkor Wat.

Using satellite imagery, modern-day scientists have discovered that at that time, a 21-mile (nearly 34km) long canal was dug to transport 1.6-ton rocks from there. Mining stone to Angkor within 10 hours.

When they came to survey this area, they found some remnants of canals still containing water, while many other canals have disappeared over the years due to drying up or being invaded by old forests.

The survey team also discovered large squares of sharp stone at various locations along the canal, which may have been dropped into the water during rafting or brought ashore for some other reason. there. The network of canals runs from the quarry area at the foot of Mount Kulen, where archaeologists have discovered that it is the same stone used in the construction of Angkor Wat.

This discovery helps to explain how giant temples like Angkor Wat, were built with 5,000,000 tons of stone in just 35 years, although it is estimated that it would take hundreds of years if using technologies. rudimentary available at the time.

Thus, we have shared with visitors some useful information about Angkor Temples, helping you to have a broader view of this famous historical site around the world. Here, if you are looking forward to a Cambodia trip to see firsthand the special architecture with many mysteries of Angkor, please contact us at Indochina Charm Travel !

Best Vietnamese Food in Saigon You Must Try Top 10

The quintessence of the best Vietnamese food in Saigon – or Ho Chi Minh City – keeps attracting more and more visitors to the bustling town, and many of them would love the local taste. Here are the top 10 to take into account.

#1: Vietnamese sandwich (Banh Mi)

This yummy Vietnamese sandwich is present in almost every corner of Saigon as the locals are fond of it. It is a quite cheap choice for breakfast but comes with a variety of fillings such as grilled pork, omelet, pate, fried sausage, meatball, chicken, fried egg, etc. Besides, the sandwich will be added with pickles, cumcumbers, coriander, chili, and pepper. The Saigonese does love “Banh Mi,” and it’s a common sight to see the locals buying sandwiches for a quick breakfast, from the street food carts. Just choose your preferred fillings and enjoy the whole!

#2: Broken Rice (Com Tam)

The Vietnamese love the rice, and the broken rice is a delicate version. A typical plate of “Com Tam” includes the broken rice topped with barbecued pork ribs, shredded pork skin, steamed pork-and-egg sausage, pickles, and cucumber. In most cases, the key might lie in the sweet-and-sour fish sauce that can be spiced with some chili as preferred. Arguably, Saigon is the best place to eat “Com Tam” that nowhere else can compete. And the broken rice itself is the soul of Saigon cuisine that every tourist should always try at least one plate. This eye-catching and mouth-watering food might urge your next visit to the dynamic city.

#3: Vietnamese Pancake (Banh Xeo)

The pancake is crispy and delectable. It’s made of rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk stuffed with various ingredients like pork, shrimp, onion, bean sprout, and green bean. The Saigon pancake is often consumed as snacks or appetizers. There are some ways to eat crunchy pancakes. You can include everything in a bowl and cover it with the fish sauce. Or, you can wrap the crispy pieces into the vegetable leaves or rice papers, and then dip the set into the sauce.

#4: Rice Vermicelli Soup (Hu Tieu) – The typical northern Vietnamese food in Saigon

This kind of soup has a dominant presence in the city streets. A hot bowl of “Hu Tieu” appeals to many people whenever they are fed up with the rice. There stand out a countless number of “Hu Tieu” food stalls along the streets, and some even sell 24/24. The most popular version of this vermicelli soup can include shrimp, pork, squid, or even fish, but the top pick is always the one with pork ribs. Some carts even add the quail eggs. Make sure you try at least one hot bowl of this top street food in Saigon, especially in the late nights when the “Hu Tieu Go” vendors run on the streets.

#5: Rice Vermicelli with Grilled Pork (Bun Thit Nuong)

This is the eye-catching bowl in Saigon, which includes the white rice vermicelli, attractive grilled pork, green cucumber, chopped peanuts, mint, carrots, bean sprouts, green lettuce, and more. It’s special that the grilled tender pork can appeal to any passerby who is convinced by the aroma. Some carts even add the crunchy spring rolls to the bowl. Everything will be covered by the sweet-and-sour fish sauce. For those that like spicy food, they can add slices of fresh chili that can enhance the taste in general.

#6: Vietnamese Pho in Saigon

The noodle soup with beef or chicken is quite popular in not only Saigon but also the whole country. The nutrient broth made by stewing the beef bones is the soul of the soup. Ingredients to be added will be subject to the foodies’ preferences. You can choose “Pho” with beef slices, beef meatball, beef flank, or chicken. Then, other greens like bean sprouts, lime, basil, mint, onions, etc., will be sprinkled to the bowl for healthy completion. The prices of “Pho” varies due to the places you eat as well as the ingredients you choose. But, as always, the “Pho” from the street vendors will include fewer portions than the ones in the restaurants that cost more.

#7: Rice Vermicelli with Crab-based Soup (Bun Rieu Cua)

You might notice that Saigon is a paradise of vermicelli/noodle soups. And, “Bun Rieu Cua” is a wonderful bowl including the crab-based broth, fried tofu, meatball, tomato, pork ribs, and sausage. There also adds some vegetables and herbs to the bowl for a healthy balance. Everybody will fall in love with the crab paste as well as the seafood soup that tastes deliciously. This kind of soup is often served with shrimp paste or chili sauce. Note that the smell of the shrimp paste might not be comfortable to some individuals; therefore, smell it before you take it out.

#8: Steamed Rice Cakes (Banh Cuon)

Made by steaming thin layers of rice and tapioca flour, and then adding the lightly-seasoned minced pork and mushroom inside, the steamed rice cakes are very delectable. Nonetheless, the quintessence lies in the perfect combination between the rice cakes and other things namely sausages, dried flour cakes, lettuce, bean sprouts, and cucumbers. Last but not least, the key is perhaps, the sweet-and-sour fish sauce that will cover everything.

#9: Fried Rice Cake (Bot Chien)

If you are fans of the fried cakes, then don’t miss “Bot Chien” in Saigon. The cakes would be cut into the adequately-sized pieces and fried on the hot pan. Then, there add egg, shallots, spring onions, and some seasoning to the rice cake pieces get until they get golden brown. Once everything is fried and mixed well, it results in the crunchy and mouth-watering food choice that especially attracts the little foodies.

#10: Mixed Rice Paper (Banh Trang Tron)

Once the shredded rice paper is mixed with slices of mango, quail eggs, fried beef, and some herbs, it establishes the perfect snack to eat on-the-go. It’s common to meet many local teenagers eating this mixed rice paper, have fun, and mingle. Some vendors might add fried peanuts, shallots, and spring onions to the bag. The more ingredients mixed, the better the snack tastes.

Besides the robust growth of the fine-dining restaurants and luxurious malls, the city welcomes foodies to explore the roadside eateries, street markets, and street food carts that sell a variety of yummy dishes. Dining in Saigon is not just limited to “Pho” and coffee, but other dishes and beverages. Let’s try best Vietnamese foods in Saigon on your next trip!

Stone Citadel of Ho Dynasty

By: Ha Thanh

Known as Tay Do (Capital of the West), the Ho Dynasty Citadel is located in Tay Giai village in Hoa Binh Province. Throughout history, the citadel has also been called An Ton, Tay Giai, Tay Kinh citadel. It is a unique stone architectural building in Vietnam and one of the rare stone citadels in the world. Tay Do imprints comparative change of a dynasty under a Vietnamese feudal lord.

Ho dynasty – the mark linking two emperors

The story of Tay Do dates back to Ho Quy Ly’s time and the short-lived Ho dynasty. The appearance of the Ho family name, origin and background can be traced back to the 9th century. Ho Quy Ly’s family established themselves in Zhejiang, China. Ho Quy Ly’s great-great-grandfather moved further south and settled in the province of Quynh Luu, Nghe An. Some historians bring attention to the fact that Ho Quy Ly is also known as Le Quy Ly. In his childhood, Ho Quy Ly was adopted by Le Huan after whom he took the family name.

Through his scheming and shrewd marriage alliances (to a sister of Emperor Tran Due Tong and Tran Thuan Tong), Ho Quy Ly made himself a court fixture in the position of the emperors’ indispensable advisor. In less than 20 years, while many others involved in court intrigues were being assassinated all around him, Hồ Quý Ly attained the highest post of General/Protector/Regent of the country.
To facilitate his takeover, Ho Quy Ly first had a new capital built, called Tay Do. In 1399, he invited the current emperor, Tran Thuan Tong, to visit this new capital. After coaxing the emperor into relinquishing the throne to Prince An (a three-year-old child) he had Tran Thuan Tong imprisoned in a pagoda and later executed. Prince An “reigned” for one year until Ho Quy Ly deposed him in 1400 and declared himself the new emperor.

Ho Quy Ly immediately changed the country’s name from Đại Việt to Đại Ngu. Taking a page from the ruling book of his Tran predecessors, Ho Quy Ly reigned less than a year before relinquishing the throne to his second son, Ho Han Thuong. He then became known as the Emperor’s Highest Father.
It was in 1406 when the Minh dynasty led the army to invade Vietnam. The defeats of the Ho at Moc Pham Giang and Ham Tu all precipitated the fall of the Ho dynasty. In 1407 at the Ham Tu battle, the Ho family tried to escape the enemy but was caught by the Minh.
Until now, there exist many viewpoints of Ho Quy Ly and the Ho dynasty, which was the shortest lived dynasty of Vietname feudal history (1400-1407). What he had done with Tran emperor was wrong, but if he hadn’t the Tran dynasty could not manage to lead the country. Not until 20 years later, when Le Loi defeated Minh invaders and brought independence to the country, history was once more marked. The Ho dynasty is likened in the brick, linking the flourishing Tran and Le dynasties in the Vietnamese feudal period.

Stone Ho Citadel – extraordinary citadel architecture

Ho Citadel is located adjacent to the four villages: Tay Giai, Xuan Giai, Thuong Giai and Dong Mon in two districts Vinh Long and Vinh Tien, in Vinh Lac District, Thanh Hoa province. Approximately 150km from Hanoi, parts of the Ho Citadel still stand as a testament to Ho Quy Ly’s brief rise to power. In respect to planning and contruction location, Ho citadel had more advantages in military protection than in socio-economic development. The most remarkable thing is the fact that the whole citadel was contructed from large stone blocks. According to last surveys, Ho citadel covered a square area standing against mountain foot at consolidated defensive position. Its north and east sides face fields, the west borders exceptionally dangerous mountains and the south is opposite Da Rang river. The citadel has interior and exterior citadels, of which the distance between the two is 150 metres. The citadel wall was built by Cham brick in trapezium shape.

The citadel had been constructed based on a rectangular drawing with two edges South (front) and North (rear) of 877m long, and two edges Erist (left) and West (right) of 700m wide. The citadel is 3513.4 m in parameter and covers an overall area of 769.082m2 (about 77 hectares).

Ho citadel has four gates opened from the middle of four stone walls in four directions to the South, North, East, West. An excavation conducted in 2004 some 2.5 kilometres from the citadel in Vinh Thanh Commune, unearthed a sacred worshipping site similar in concept to Nam Giao Esplanade in Hue. Here it is believed the king sought the mandate of heaven each year for his rule.
Based on ancient documents and current archeological excavation, scientific researchers have come to a definition of the citadel’s architectural components, which include: walls, gates, moats and inside water pools. However, over 600 years of time and war destruction, much of the citadel has been lost. According to historical records once there was a building known as Hoang Nguyen Palace, where the royal court joined for meetings. Ho Quy Ly slept at the Ngan Tho Palace, while his son slept in the Phu Cuc Palace.
Now only stone blocks with a height of 5 – 6m exist. The citadel has a diameter of 3508m, with a wall of 5 – 6m high except the wall near the Southern gate is 10m. Some stone block weighs up to 15-20 tons. The tops of the curves are paved with stones to form a surface with pile holes of wooden pillar architecture.
The Northern gate is 20.2m long, 7.5m high, 13.7m thick forming a curve which is over 6.6m high, 5.80m wide. The top of the curve is paved with stone forming a surface which is 12.7m wide and 20m long with circle pillar holes of 0.45m in diameter and 0.45n deep down stone level.
The Western gate is 19.3m long, 13.4m thick, 5.7m wide forming a curve of 6.1m high.
The management and protection here is easy as there is no residential area inside  the citadel but only land for rice cultivation.
As the citadel had been made by stone it passed 600 years of existence with the form almost as original. Only the residential buildings and royal palace inside the citadel have collapsed and buried. At present, Ho citadel has been under restoration. It has been renovated and some archaeological activities have jost been carried out, concretely the project in cooperation with Japan. The project implements research and excavation (since 2002) with the purpose of collecting and analyzing the documents in Vietnam and abroad on the KO dynasty and the Ho citadel. Reasearchers are collecting and researching without photos to make clear the structure of the existing citadel and the changes of citadel has undergone throughout history..

Ho citadel – UNESCO heritage ahead

What remains is being restored and archaeological work continues. The citadel site was recognized as a national-level historical and cultural site by the Ministry of Culture (now the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism) in 1962. In 2004, archaeologists unearthed numerous valuable artifacts inside the walls of the citadel, including stone pillars and bars in the design style of the Ly and Tran dynasties and two overlapping foundations, which are believed to have formed part of the main royal palace building.
Between June 2006 and September 2009, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism compiled a scientific file on the Ho Citadel site and submitted it to UNESCO, asking for recognition as a world heritage site.

Source from Vietnam Travel Live, posted by Indochina Charm Travel – Vietnam tours

Talk show on millennium imprints of Thang Long – Hanoi

VGP – A talk show was kick-started this morning at the headquarters of VGP in Hà Nội, focusing on the thousand-year civilization of Thăng Long–Hà Nội, the preparation for the city’s millennium anniversary, and the conservation of its tangible and intangible cultural heritages.

The talks, themed “Thousand-year imprints of Thăng Long–Hà Nội,” draw the participation of three guest-speakers, Dr. Phùng Hữu Phú, Standing Deputy Director of the Party’s Central Committee for Communications and Education, Director of the Propagation Subcommittee under the National Steering Committee for the 1000th anniversary of Thăng Long–Hà Nội, Dr. Phạm Quang Long, Director of the Hà Nội Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Dr. Lưu Trần Tiêu, President of the Việt Nam Cultural Heritage Association.

According to Dr. Lưu Trần Tiêu, Hà Nội is always the cradle of cultural values for thousands of years.

Researchers have discovered many sites within Hà Nội, which are dated back to the cultures of Phùng Nguyên (2nd millennium BC), Đồng Đậu, and Gò Mun (1st half of the 1st millennium BC).

Recent archaeological discoveries at Thành Dền (suburban district of Mê Linh), especially bronze artefacts, prove the high metallurgical skills of the residents. The site can be considered as a major metallurgical center in the Red River Delta.

Mr. Tiêu mentioned the Cổ Loa Citadel (suburban district of Đông Anh) as a breakthrough which shows the ancient Vietnamese people’s strategic thinking in their march to the lowland.

Cổ Loa was the capital city of Việt Nam during the 3rd century BC and under the reign of Ngô Quyền (938-944). As a confluence of both land roads and waterways, Cổ Loa plays an important role in controlling the plains and the midlands.

“It is possible to say that, each and every historical stage of Việt Nam bears Hà Nội’s imprints,” stressed Dr. Tiêu.

He continued to hail the authorities of Hà Nội for endeavor for restoring cultural heritages, including the Ancient Quarter, four guardian temples, the Temple of Literature, Ba Đình Square, French-style villas, pagodas and temples, lakes, green areas, and Hanoian life styles.

The doctor suggested Hà Nội to build high-value works which will surely become heritages later though the city boasts for 5,170 historical and cultural sites, including 2,100 nationally-recognized ones.

Meanwhile, Mr. Phùng Hữu Phú asserted that Hà Nội possesses many strengths, of which the topmost is human resource because the capital city is always the convergence of talents and heroes from all corners of the country. “Hanoians are the crystallization of the Vietnamese people,” said Mr. Phú, adding that once this resource is brought into play well, the city will see more rapid and stronger development.

Over the past days, the construction of city gates has emerged as an issue of public concern. Commenting this news, Mr. Phạm Quang Long stated that this is not an impromptu. However, it is necessary to carefully consider all factors, from location, design, materials and usage because these gates are “not for Hà Nội only but for the whole society, for the past, the present and the future.”

Talking of the grand anniversary which highlights the imprints of a thousand-year Thăng Long–Hà Nội, Mr. Phú underlined three features.

First, the anniversary will be a good chance to inventory the 1,000-year legacy which can be exploited in the future development of the capital city.

Second, this is a moment for each and every Hanoian in particular and Vietnamese in general to acquire a better insight in the thousand-year-old capital.

Finally, on the occasion, some projects will be completed and will become valuable heritages around a century later.

Sourced from ONLINE NEWSPAPER OF THE SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIỆT NAM GOVERNMENT: http://hanoi1000yrs.vietnam.gov.vn
Posted by Indochina Charm Travel

Indochina Charm Travel (Vietnam tours, Cambodia tours, Laos tours)

ABOUT US

The name of Indochina Charm Travel is introduced by a group of experts on international travel business in Vietnam after more than 15 years in practical business. At the very first day in tourism industry, we organized and promoted a wide variety of travel services, from hotel booking to tour guide to foreign travelers visiting Vietnam. Gradually, our services became more attractive with more options to not only the individual travelers but also to the incentive groups to Vietnam. We then have diversified the travel itineraries on more specialized interests, from sightseeing to adventure, eco-tour, discovery, socio-cultural exchange and volunteer tourism. Remarkably, we have successfully connected our travelers to the whole region of Indochina by the network of travel agencies in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. We have been studying to understand the desire of travelers from different corners around the world and to bring our team to the more international recognition. Our team have been so proud to be the professional tour operator in the Indochina region for a number of world-top travel agencies, from Asia to Australia, Europe to America over the last 10 years. Indochina Charm Travel – the name that we mean to bring you the hidden charm in Vietnam, the attraction from Angkor watt (Cambodia) and the mystery from Million Elephant people (Laos). Thank you for visiting us. Enjoy yourself finding the golden information on the service we will be committed to bring you to the CHARM OF INDOCHINA.

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