Discover the enchanting world of Vietnamese water puppetry, a 1,000-year-old art form that brings to life Vietnam's culture, folklore, and traditions on a water stage. You don't have to be a child to be enchanted by Vietnam's water puppetry (múa rối nước). This unique art form provides a fascinating window into Vietnamese culture and history, with performances enjoyed by both young and old alike. Featuring scenes from rural village life, mythical tales, and traditional festivals, water puppetry brings Vietnamese folklore to life on a watery stage. Here's a brief introduction to the wonderful world of Vietnamese water puppets. A Short History of Water Puppetry Water puppetry dates back approximately 1,000 years, originating in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam. Dur

Explore the top things to do in Ha Long Bay, from cruising among limestone karsts to snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, visiting caves, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Ha Long Bay, with its surreal landscape of towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, is one of Vietnam's most iconic destinations. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, this natural wonder spans over 1,500 km² and offers a wealth of experiences, from underwater adventures to peaceful cruises through its thousands of islands. Here are some of the best ways to explore and enjoy Ha Long Bay. 1. Snorkeling and Diving to Explore Coral Reefs While most guides focus on Ha Long Bay's above-water beauty, there's a vibrant world beneath the surface worth exploring. The bay is home to more than 140 species of coral, includi

Explore the immersive Sacred Night tour at Hoa Lo Prison, a historical site in Hanoi that brings to life the experiences of Vietnam's revolutionaries through lights, sounds, and stories. With the introduction of the immersive night tour, "Sacred Night - Glorious Vietnamese Spirit", visitors to Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi are given a deeply moving experience that brings them closer than ever to understanding the lives of the prisoners held within its walls. This historic prison, now a museum, stands as a powerful reminder of Vietnam's colonial past and the resilience of its people. Recognized as a historical monument by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 1997, Hoa Lo Prison, once known as "Maison Centrale" during the French Colonial Era, was originally built to incarcerate Vietnames

Explore the stunning limestone cliffs and emerald waters of Halong Bay on a cruise. Discover islets, caves, and hidden beaches while enjoying luxury or budget options. Halong Bay is the crown jewel of Vietnam's tourism, captivating travelers with its serene emerald waters and majestic limestone formations. A cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an unforgettable journey into one of the world's most stunning natural landscapes, known for its rich history and biodiversity. Why Halong Bay is a Must-Visit Destination Located just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, Halong Bay is a convenient and ideal getaway for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Stretching across 1,553 km² along 120 kilometers of coastline, the bay is home to 1,969 islets, cre

Ha Giang, Vietnam's northern province, named Asia's leading emerging destination at the 2023 World Travel Awards, recognized for its rugged landscapes and challenging motorbike loops. Vietnam's northern highlands province of Ha Giang has been honored as Asia's leading emerging tourism destination at the prestigious 2023 World Travel Awards. This marks the first time Ha Giang has received this recognition, beating nine other nominees from across Asia, including Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei), Flores (Indonesia), Koh Kood (Thailand), Melaka (Malaysia), Morioka and Okinawa (Japan), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Sumba Island (Indonesia), and Taipei (Taiwan). Why Ha Giang Stands Out Ha Giang is renowned for its rugged natural beauty and challenging terrain. Nestled on the border with China and about 300

Explore Ha Giang, Vietnam's northern frontier, with terraced rice fields, the Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the rich cultural heritage of the Hmong people. Located just 300 kilometers from Hanoi, Ha Giang offers a world of unique experiences, defined by its breathtaking landscapes and rich ethnic diversity. Nestled in Vietnam's northern highlands, the province is famous for its dramatic limestone mountains, deep valleys, and vibrant cultural heritage. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Ha Giang is between September and November, when the weather is cool and dry, with average temperatures around 28°C. Key seasonal highlights include: Terraced Rice Fields: Late September to early October marks the ripening of the province's terraced rice fields, a mesmerizing sight as they turn golden. Buckwh

Vietnam's international tourist arrivals reached 12.7 million in the first nine months of 2024, surpassing last year's total, with the goal of 18 million visitors in sight. Vietnam welcomed over 12.7 million international visitors in the first nine months of 2024, surpassing the total of 12.6 million arrivals recorded for the whole of 2023. According to data from the General Statistics Office, September alone saw 1.27 million international visitors, slightly lower than August's 1.43 million. Despite the September dip, the third quarter remained strong with over 3.8 million international visitors. Year-to-date figures show a 43% increase compared to the same period in 2023, highlighting a strong post-pandemic recovery for Vietnam's tourism sector. Air Travel Leads the Surge Air arrivals mad