Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia - 18days
Starts : Hanoi, ends: Siem Reap
Highlights: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Temples Of Angkor.
Trip Code : C-IC12
Day 1; Hanoi
Arrive in Hanoi and transfer to hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or to begin exploring the city. In the evening watch a performance of the renowned water puppet theatre whose origins date back over a thousand years.
Accommodation in Hanoi:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Day 2; Halong Bay
Board a boat for a scenic cruise through Halong Bay's emerald waters, sailing past vast limestone karsts and secluded lagoons. Indulge in a gourmet seafood lunch, lounge on deck to aid digestion then perhaps cool off with a swim.
Accommodation in Hanoi:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Days 3-4; Hanoi
Days to explore Hanoi’s illustrious history. In the morning, visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex containing his mausoleum, former residence and the One Pillar Pagoda. Also visit the Temple of Literature. In the afternoon visit the Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. A one-hour tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter by cyclo is a relaxing way to end the day. The tour includes a stop at an ancient Vietnamese “long house”.
Accommodation in Hanoi:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Days 5-6; Hue
See the royal treasures of Hue on a bicycle or take a boat trip along the Perfume River. Don't miss the Imperial Citadel with its ruined Forbidden Purple City and its Nine Dynastic Urns.
Accommodation in Hue:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Days 7-9; Hoi An
Journey over the Hai Van Pass, calling into China Beach on the way to Hoi An. Explore the city's ancient streets, amble around the My Son or master Vietnamese culinary skills in a cooking class. Noon, time to rest on the famous China Beach
Accommodation in Hoi An:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Days 10-12; Nha Trang
Relax on squeaky sand beaches or snorkel the offshore reefs of Nha Trang. Perhaps even take a boat out to Bamboo, Monkey or Bird's Nest islands to explore the pristine landscapes and swim in the warm South China Sea.
Accommodation in Nha Trang:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Days 13-14; Ho Chi Minh City
Drive to the remarkable Cu Chi tunnels outside Ho Chi Minh City. During the war “Viet Cong” guerillas built a labyrinth of narrow tunnels using them to hide during bombing raids and stage surprise attacks. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon for a half-day city tour including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Chinatown, Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple.
Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Day 15 -16; Phnom Penh
On arrival in Phnom Penh, transfer to your hotel and meet your tour tour guide for welcome drinks and a tour briefing. During our stay here we gain an insight into the contrasts of Khmer history with visits to the Royal Palace, National Museum, Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields. Jump aboard a cyclo for a visit to the city’s namesake, Wat Phnom, and learn about the plight of local street children, and what you can do to help, at the ChildSafe Centre. There will also be time to learn the secrets of Khmer cuisine with a cooking class, and visit a beautiful hilltop temple in nearby Oudong, a former capital of Cambodia.
Accommodation in Phnom Penh:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Day 17; Siem Reap/ Angkor Wat
We take our short flight to Siem Reap, gateway to the temples of Angkor. Rise before dawn to experience the spires of Angkor Wat emerge from surrounding sunset – an unforgettable sight. Tour the main temple complex, including the impressive stone faces of the Bayon, by tuk tuk and venture off the tourist trail to jungle covered Boeng Mealea. Experience the natural marvel of Tonle Sap Lake on a boat cruise and explore the pre Angkorian Roulos temples. In your free time, seek out some bargains in the Old Market or enjoy a drink at the Foreign Correspondents Club
Accommodation in Siem Reap:
+ Hotel grade: 4 Star
+ Room type: Superior Room
Day 18; Departure
Breakfast at the hotel
At leisure until the departure transfer to airport fro your flight home.
Prices : USD$ 1961 for per person base for 2 people travelling together
The tour itinerary, inclusions and departures are based on travel from 01/01/2010 to Sunday, 05 September 2010. Prices are subject to availability and may vary by departure date. For travel outside of these dates itinerary and inclusions may vary to that shown above - please ask for details.
What's inclusive and Not ?
Transportation
Booking Conditions

Inclusive :
* All accommodation on double basis in Hotel 4star
* All transfers/ transports
* English speaking guide
* All Breakfasts & Lunches
* Airfares
* Admission fees and permits where applicable
* Visa arrangement
Exclusive :
* Pre/post trip arrangement
* Travel insurance
* Meals not indicated
* Other personal expenses
* Tips and gratuities
**** Information in this itinerary was correct at the time of its preparation.
We reserves the right to make itinerary changes as operational or other circumstances require
**** Once your booking has been confirmed you will receive a detailed itinerary for this tour,
detailing day by day arrangements, as well as a predeparture
guide containing valuable information designed to
help you get the most out of your holiday

For road journeys, air conditioned coasters or mini buses or car are used. These are modern, spacious, comfortable, well maintained, safe vehicles - perfect for private travel !
See the Goup Size and know what you get
* Tour Type :Private
* Vehicles Type :Car
* Group Size : 2 -3 Pax

----------Altis Toyota - 4seats
* Tour Type :Private
* Vehicles Type :Van
* Group Size : 4 - 8 Pax

-----------Mercedes Van - 16seats
For airway journeys, Modern and comfortable flights and are used with Economic ticket.
**Flights in Cambodia we use :
- President Airlines and Siem Reap Airways ; Boeing 737
**Flights in Vietnam we use :
- Vietnam Airlnies and Jetstar Ailines
** **Flights connecting betwwen Vietnam and Cambodia lines :
- Vietnam Airlines or President Airlines ; Boeing 747

STATUS:
CONFIRMED indicated overleaf means the airline, hotel, vehicle rental or tour operator has accepted your reservation from Vietnam Royal Tourism , subject to the usual reservation conditions.
REQUEST means your arrangements have been requested although not yet confirmed. WAITLIST means that your flight, hotel or tour arrangements are currently full and your name has been placed on a waiting list. CANCELLED means your flight, hotel, vehicle rental or tour arrangements are cancelled. UNABLE means the airline, hotel or tour operator cannot meet your request.
PAYMENTS: We require an initial non-returnable deposit normally 30% of tour cost per person for the travel element of your itinerary. Additional deposits may also be required to hold "other facilities" arrangements such as hotels, car-hire, cruises and tours - all payment details will be advised at the time of booking. Any final payment is usually due until customers arrival their destinations as Vietnam , Laos or Cambodia on First Day ( Day 1 ). Bookings made within 1 month of travel require 30% payment upon confirmation. If you have booked hotel accommodation, vehicle rental, tours or any 'Other Facilities' you should refer to the booking conditions in the Vietnam Royal Tourism - brochure or where Vietnam Royal Tourism - is acting as the agent for the Tour Operator you should refer to the booking conditions contained in Tour Operator's brochure (a copy of these conditions will be given or sent to you at the time of booking).
Please note that all airfares and taxes are subject to increase until full payment is received and tickets issued it is therefore to your advantage to finalise payment as soon as you can after booking. However Government taxes additional to the fare may be imposed or increased without notice at any time up until departure date.
YOUR PEACE OF MIND:
Vietnam Royal Tourism with Vietnam Business Number ( VBN 0102032888). We hold an Travel Agent License (TAG number 0825 ) Awarded by Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. This ensures that in the very unlikely event of our insolvency you will be able to continue with your arrangements as planned (if already abroad in Vietnam , Laos, Cambodia or Thailand) or refunded in full if travel has not already commenced.
For all monies paid to Vietnam Royal Tourism - will be legally safeguarded by being held in Trust in a Vietnam Royal Tourism - Trust account, thus ensuring that in the very unlikely event of our insolvency money paid in respect of advance bookings (future travel) will be refunded in full.
EMERGENCY CONTACT:
In the event that you experience a real emergency outside of Vietnam Royal Tourism - ' normal opening hours, please contact details to us on +844 2425892 or email :vietnamroyaltourism@vnn.vn.
METHODS OF PAYMENT:
PLEASE NOTE: If you intend to mail payment details or are arranging a bank transfer you should confirm the exact amount due with your consultant.
1. PERSONAL (AND COMPANY) CHEQUES: Payment for travel arrangements may be made by personal or company cheque. Cheques should be made payable to VIETNAM ROYAL TOURISM - LTD. Please note. However, that we require SIX WORKING DAYS FOR CHEQUE CLEARANCE before tickets can be issued. It is therefore advisable to confirm with Vietnam Royal Tourism - that there is sufficient time between cheque payment and any ticketing deadline. For urgent ticketing we can usually arrange to have cheques up to US3,000 guaranteed upon payment of an extra fee determined by the value of the cheque. Foreign currency cheques are acceptable.
2. BANK AND BUILDING SOCIETY DRAFTS: These are treated as cash if received at a time when the relevant bank or building society is open and able to verify the cheque.
3. CASH: Please note we advise clients not to post cash to us. Cash are acceptable and welcome when you will made your final payment on your arrival date in Vietnam , Laos , Cambodia
4. CARDS:
We accept Visa, MasterCard . We may require written Form of Authorisation letter and Letter of Aproval for the debit from the card holder before tickets can be released. We may also require one copy paper of the credit card both side and one copy of the passport (first page) with identify and photo before tickets can be released. We may also require seeing the actual card.
5. DIRECT CREDIT/BANK TRANSFER: Payment may be made from your bank directly to our bank account at:
Account name: Vietnam Royal Tourism Co.,LTD
Account number: 4094439
Bank Name: ANZ Bank
Address: 14 Le Thai To str., Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel : +844-38258190
Fax : +844-38258188
SWIFT Code: ANZBVNVX
Website: www.anz.com
( Recommendation using this one for citizen of New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom, US and Canada with small fee of bank transfer )
or other :
Account name: VIET NAM ROYAL TOURISM CO., LTD
Account number: 0011372354159
Bank Name: Bank for foreign trade of Vietnam – Operation Center
Address: 198 Tran Quang Khai str., Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel : + 844-3825 1322
Fax: +844-382 69067
SWIFT Code: BFTVVNVX001
Website: http://www.vietcombank.com.vn/en/
Vietnam Royal Tourism - must be notified of all direct bank payments. All payments must be identified by the passenger's name and booking number.
PROVISIONAL FARES:
If a fare is shown on an itinerary as being 'PROVISIONAL', this means that the airline, hotel or tour/ground operator has not confirmed the exact fare at the time of booking and any increases in cost must be met by the client.
TICKETING: Unless you notify us otherwise, your travel documents will be posted to you at the address shown overleaf, except E-tickets where your boarding pass is issued at check in on production of your passport and this Vietnam Royal Tourism - client confirmation form if requested. Air tickets cannot be posted overseas. Tickets are generally valid a maximum of one year from the date of issue. Any exception to this will be shown on your ticket.
REROUTING: As a general rule, airline tickets cannot be rerouted or transferred to another airline. All flights must be used in sequence, as booked. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of all remaining sectors and restrict any possible refund.
PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS: Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them. We recommend that you travel with a passport that has a minimum validity of 6 months remaining at all times. This is an immigration requirement for many countries and airlines. Please check with your travel consultant if you will not have the recommended validity whilst travelling. Passports should be Machine Readable for travel via the USA. Please call our visa service if you are unsure if your passport is Machine Readable. Please call +844 24 25 892 for more details.
Visa requirements are only noted for those countries listed on your itinerary. If you intend visiting or transiting through other countries, please ensure you are fully aware of all relevant visa and passport requirements.
AIRLINE PASSENGER INFORMATION: Please note that airlines are now required by laws introduced in the United States and other countries to give border control agencies access to passenger data. Accordingly any information that the airline holds about you and your travel arrangements may be disclosed to the customs and immigration authorities of any country on your itinerary. Please contact your travel consultant if you require further information.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide, you should obtain health advice on your specific needs as early as possible. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have fully complied with all health and immunisation requirements of the countries you may be visiting.
INSURANCE: Vietnam Royal Tourism - strongly recommends insurance cover whenever you travel abroad. Insurance is a must for Vietnam, as the cost of major medical treatment is prohibitive. A travel insurance policy to cover theft, loss and medical problems is the best bet
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Unfortunately things can go wrong on holiday. You could fall ill or have an accident; you could have money or luggage stolen; your visit might be cancelled or cut short through injury or illness; your family may need to fly out to be with you if there is a serious incident.
Costs - particularly medical treatment costs - can easily run into thousands of dollars. Local medical facilities are unable to provide the full range of medical services available in developed countries making evacuation a requirement in many non life threatening medical emergencies. The costs of relocation as well as local international standard care are extremely high. In the most serious emergencies, you may not be positioned to authorise payment for an appropriate medical response that is urgently required. This may delay or prevent the provision of critical and possibly life saving medical attention.
Market surveys show that many people don't take insurance. People believe that their credit card accident cover, home insurance, or private health cover is sufficient. However, it is unlikely that these will give adequate cover. If you do not already have a policy we urge you to take out insurance as soon as you make a booking with us to ensure you have adequate cancellation cover.
Know what your policy covers and check that the cover is adequate.
If in doubt ask your insurer. Your policy should cover you for the following:
The whole time that you are away, whether that is a day or a year.
Any activities and sports you might do. Some activities, such as jet skiing, are excluded from many policies. Many insurers will extend cover, if requested, otherwise shop around for a specialist policy.
The medical cover is very important. It must include cover for emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation and repatriation.
Personal liability - for injury or damage to others and their property.
Cancellation - if you have to cancel or abandon your trip. Cancellation cover should start as soon as you book your trip.
24 hour emergency assistance - if things go wrong the assistance company will help you to sort everything out.
Possessions cover, including money and documents to specified limits.
Your policy may also cover:
Personal accident - money paid on death or permanent disability.
Legal expenses - to help you pursue compensation for damages following personal injury.
Declare anything that you think might affect the cover.
Be honest - tell your insurer about current or past medical conditions. This should include the condition of those to be insured and others, such as close relatives, whose state of health may prevent you from travelling or may cause you to curtail your trip. If you don't declare you may invalidate your policy.
When you travel.
Make sure you take your policy and the 24 hour emergency phone number with you.
Make sure you know what to do in the event of a problem.
Some insurance companies insist that you call their assistance company as soon as possible after a problem arises.
If anything does happen make sure you keep as much paperwork as possible - tickets, receipts, medical bills, police reports etc - to help prove that what you're claiming for actually happened.
CANCELLATIONS/AMENDMENTS/REFUNDS:
It is important that you are fully aware of the cancellation and administrative charges relating to your contract with Vietnam Royal Tourism - .
The circumstances surrounding cancellations and refunds vary greatly. The following general conditions are as simple as the complex problem permits and makes allowance for the work carried out by Vietnam Royal Tourism - on behalf of clients. Should you for any reason have to cancel your booking; the person making the original arrangements must give us written notice of cancellation.
In certain cases cancellation charges, if incurred involuntarily, will be covered by insurance taken out at the time of booking. This is strongly recommended.
AMENDMENTS:
Any change of itinerary before receipt of full payment on any particular ticket(s) will be termed an amendment. An amendment fee of up to $US 100 per change will be levied according to the amount of work involved. Changes to hotel accommodation, vehicle rental, tours and other travel arrangements will incur extra charges. Please refer to the relevant Vietnam Royal Tourism - brochure or where Vietnam Royal Tourism - is acting as the agent for the tour operator, you should refer to the booking conditions contained in the tour operator's brochure. Any change of itinerary after receipt of full payment on any tickets will be subject to applicable cancellation conditions. Please note that it will not be possible for our Travel Centres in Vietnam to assist with changes to the routing of your airline ticket. All such enquiries must always be made directly with the relevant airline. Vietnam Royal Tourism - may be able to assist in changing your dates, subject to the conditions of your ticket and flight availability; however, fees from $US 30 per change apply, over and above any airline fees detailed on your booking form. These date changes may also be made directly with the airline. Amendments to hotel and tour bookings made in the Vietnam and Laos, Cambodia may be made through our Travel Centres in Vietnam. However, at least 7 days notice is required and all amendments are subject to availability. Cancellations or amendments made within 30 days will incur two night's cancellation fee per hotel as per the conditions detailed in our Tailor-made Indochina. A minimum fee of US$25 per hotel or tour booking will apply to amendments made outside 28 days. Our Travel Centres in Vietnam will be delighted to assist with additional flights and selected hotels together with local tours whilst travelling Vietnam. Please call in or telephone.
AIRLINE RESERVATION & TICKET CANCELLATION:
For all confirmed bookings cancelled before receipt of full payment on any particular ticket(s), the booking deposit is forfeit. For cancellation after receipt of full payment, cancellation charges as stated overleaf will apply. Please note cancellation charges of 10% per ticket or $US100 per ticket, whichever is the greater, will apply to any cancelled tickets not specifically covered under the cancellation conditions overleaf. On any fixed dated ticket there is a 100% cancellation charge if part used, or if the reservation is not cancelled prior to the first flight. Please note that it is your responsibility to advise airlines if you do not wish to travel on a flight booked. Failure to do so can result in the cancellation of onward flights and the forfeit of any ticket refund.
Please note all flight cancellations must be notified in writing to Vietnam Royal Tourism - prior to the day of departure.
HOTEL/VEHICLE RENTAL/TOUR/OTHER TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS:
CANCELLATION
If you have booked hotel accommodation, vehicle rental, tours or any other travel arrangements and you cancel your reservation, you should refer to the booking conditions in the Vietnam Royal Tourism - brochure or, where Vietnam Royal Tourism - is acting as the agent for the tour operator, you should refer to the booking conditions contained in the tour operator's brochure. Reservations are non-transferable.
AIRLINE TICKET REFUNDS:
Tickets returned will be presented to the airline for assessment. As soon as we receive a refund from the issuing airline, we will forward it to you less any cancellation or administration charge. Please note that refunds for part-used/return halves of tickets are always less than the pro-rata rate and may have no refund value whatsoever. Refunds usually take 8-12 weeks but in isolated cases may take longer. Refunds will be processed via the original method of payment, except for cash transactions where refunds will be provided by cheque. Tickets returned more than one year from date of issue are classed as expired by the airline and generally have no refund value at all. If tickets are lost or stolen, certain airlines will not issue duplicates. New tickets may then have to be purchased locally, at the focal fare. Even if replacement tickets are purchased, certain airlines will not issue refunds for lost/stolen tickets. A delay of up to 18 months is possible before we receive authority from the airline to make any refund. Vietnam Royal Tourism - applies a further $US25 per ticket administration fee over and above cancellation charges in such cases.
Please ensure that any tickets returned to Vietnam Royal Tourism - are sent by registered post.
REFUNDS:
No refunds are given for partly used vouchers. In all circumstances please refer to the booking conditions in the Vietnam Royal Tourism - brochure or, where Vietnam Royal Tourism - is acting as the agent for the tour operator, please refer to the booking conditions contained in the tour operator's brochure.
AIRLINE RESERVATIONS:
All flight reservations are subject to seat availability of the relevant booking class, which at certain times may be limited. Any alterations you may wish to make to a confirmed itinerary after departure from your country should be addressed to the airline as soon as possible. Airline reservations are non-transferable.
CARRIAGE BY AIR:
Carriage by air is subject to the terms and conditions of the carrier with whom you travel and to international conventions, which may limit liability. Transport timings and routings are provided by the airlines and other carriers concerned. They are subject to change as a result of air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions, operational/maintenance requirements and the requirement for passengers to check in on time, over which Vietnam Royal Tourism - has no control. We cannot make any special arrangements for you if you are delayed since such matters are at the sole discretion of the airline concerned.
FLIGHT RECONFIRMATIONS:
Please reconfirm all onward flight reservations with the relevant airline at least 72 hours prior to departure. In addition, it is important to establish if there have been any changes to your flight timings since leaving your country. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of your reservation. Unless Vietnam Royal Tourism - advises you to reconfirm the first flight out of your country there is no need to do so.
TAXES:
Vietnam Royal Tourism - will advise of all mandatory pre-paid taxes. Most countries also charge departure taxes that may only be paid locally. It is therefore recommended that clients retain sufficient local currency to meet such charges. For further details please enquire directly with the airline.
SEAT REQUEST (AIRLINES) SPECIAL REQUEST (HOTELS):
Where airline policy allows, Vietnam Royal Tourism - is happy to request pre-allocated seating and other special service requests. We are also happy to make any special requests in respect of your hotel accommodation. Please note however that unless specifically confirmed by Vietnam Royal Tourism - all such requests will never be guaranteed and form no part of your contract with Vietnam Royal Tourism .
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE: If you are unsure of the baggage allowance on the flights you have booked please contact your consultant or the relevant airline.
PHOTOGRAPHIC IDENTIFICATION: Some countries require that photographic
ID is carried at all times. Vietnam Royal Tourism - recommends that passports be carried whenever flying.
COMPLAINTS:
If you have a problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant airline, hotel, tour operator or other supplier immediately so that they can endeavor to put things right. If they cannot resolve the problem, you must contact one of Vietnam Royal Tourism - ' Vietnam Travel Centres immediately by telephone or fax so that we are given an opportunity to help. Vietnam Royal Tourism - will not hold themselves responsible for the non-performance of an itinerary through causes beyond their control or when they are not notified of a problem at the point when remedial action can be taken. In the unlikely event that a complaint cannot be resolved at the time, you should write to us within 90 days of returning home, giving your original booking reference number and all other relevant information. If you fail to take any of these steps this will hinder our ability to put any problem right and/or investigate it fully and any right you may have to receive compensation will be reduced or completely invalidated.
TRAVELLING IN LAOS AND CAMBODIA: If you have a problem whilst travelling in Laos or Cambdia please follow our complaints procedure as detailed above, rather than in the first instance contacting one of our Travel Centres in Vietnam. This will enable us to attend to your complaint in the most effective manner. The Vietnam Royal Tourism - Vietnam 24 hour emergency number is +844 2425892 or +84 9888 23458.
YOUR HOLIDAY CONTRACT:
These booking conditions form part of your contract with Vietnam Royal Tourism - . This contract and matters arising from it are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Please note differing terms and conditions may apply between you and the vehicle rental company/tour operator or airline involved in providing these travel arrangements. A copy of the applicable terms can be requested by contacting Vietnam Royal Tourism - in writing
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Cambodia & Vietnam Tours
- Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia - 18days
- Highlights of Vietnam & Cambodia - 15 days
- Cambodia & Vietnam Experience - 20 days
- Inside Cambodia - 12days
- Cambodia to Vietnam by Mekong River - 9 days
- Charm of Cambodia and Vietnam - 18 days
- Best of Cambodia and Vietnam - 13 days
- Amazing Cambodia - 7 days
- Vietnam and Cambodia Highlights - 14 days
- Essence of Vietnam and Cambodia - 12days
- Temples of Cambodia - 5 days
Cambodia
News Update
- Low-key lagoon
From Hai Lang Town in the central province of Quang Tri, we drove across 6 kilometers of dusty roads bordered by tall grass and eucalyptus trees.
From Hai Lang Town in the central province of Quang Tri, we drove across 6 kilometers of dusty roads bordered by tall grass and eucalyptus trees.
Before we reached Tra Loc Lagoon, we were refreshed by a drive through a dense forest.
Arriving at the lagoon, we could see the tall trees reflect perfectly in the still, ripple-less water.
Clear water, cool wind, pristine beauty.
Parts of the lagoon were blanketed by water-ferns, lotuses, and water-lilies.
The fragrance of cajuput flowers wafted from the forest and over the lagoon.
Monkeys gazed at us as they jumped from tree to tree in the forest.
The four-meter-deep lagoon is home to freshwater fish, including carp, snakehead fish, thac lac fish, and even wild ducks.
Groups can rent huts on stilts at the lagoon’s edge to stay over-night, singing, playing guitar and feasting all night. Food at the lagoon, mostly made from local fish, is delicious and cheap.
Some prefer to just sit silently, listening to the songs of singing birds in the forest.
read more >>> - Vietnam waives visa fees to entice tourists for shopping spree
The government will also allow foreign tourists to claim refund of value added tax (VAT) when they buy goods during the two months under the “Impressive Vietnam Grand Sale 2010” program, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
Foreign visitors to Vietnam in August and September will have their visa fees waived as part of a national shopping promotion program. p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal{margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.phead, li.phead, div.phead{margin-right:0in;margin-left:0in;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.pbody, li.pbody, div.pbody{margin-right:0in;margin-left:0in;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman";}@page Section1{size:8.5in 11.0in;margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in;}div.Section1{page:Section1;}The government will also allow foreign tourists to claim refund of value added tax (VAT) when they buy goods during the two months under the “Impressive Vietnam Grand Sale 2010” program, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
Meanwhile, many shops, trade centers, and service providers in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City have pledged to offer discounts of 10-40 percent to both local and foreign tourists during the promotion.
Vietnam attracted 1.35 million foreign visitors in the first quarter this year, a 36 percent year-on-year increase.
The country hopes to welcome 4.2 million visitors this year.
read more >>> - The poetry of a waterfall in the spring
From Duc Pho Town in the central province of Quang Ngai, we went west across seven kilometers of road through thick sugarcane fields.
From Duc Pho Town in the central province of Quang Ngai, we went west across seven kilometers of road through thick sugarcane fields.
We passed through a forest before the road let out into a poetic clearing of rocks and water. We had reached Da Giang Spring in Pho Nhon Commune.
We followed the spring that runs smoothly through rocks as the sound of crashing water grew louder and louder.
Then we hit the cascade, dozens of meters high. The waterfall created dazzling white spumes when it hit the spring.
It was easy to find large and flat rocks to use as small picnic tables. We were given shade by the leafy canopy of the old-growth forest.
My friend, who lives in the area, used a local trick to chill our beers: he placed them in a small hollowed out space in the rocks that filled with cool spring water. Ten minutes later, we were quenching our thirst with cold beer.
Orchids in yellow, purple, and pink jutted out from cliffs. Such a soft beauty in such a mighty forest!
read more >>> - ‘Abandoned child’ blessed with abundance
Sa Huynh Beach in the central province of Quang Ngai has clear water, golden sand, and pine trees… It also has a small rocky surprise
Sa Huynh Beach in the central province of Quang Ngai has clear water, golden sand, and pine trees… It also has a small rocky surprise
The stretch is just 200 meters long, cut off from the rest of the 10-kilometer long Sa Huynh Beach by two rocky ranges.
But Bai Con (Little Beach), which locals call Sa Huynh’s “abandoned child,” has its own unique beauty.
Unlike the other part of Sa Huynh Beach, the waters of Bai Con are always calm and peaceful.
From the nearby Cam Mountain, Bai Con’s golden sands make it look like a yellow silk strip floating on a blue sea.
The two long rocky ranges offer a special adventure for the beachgoers, as navigating them is fun, but not always easy.
From Bai Con, we went west along the rocks, listening to the bird songs from the trees of a nearby mountain. Some of them decided to give us a surprise by darting out of the trees and flying to the rocks we were “walking” on.
After walking for about 20 minutes, we saw the Thien Y A Na Goddess Temple. Thien Y A Na is the Vietnamese name for Po Nagar, the Goddess of the Cham people.
Sa Huynh fishermen visit the temple and pray for a safe trip before heading out to sea.
How to get there
- Bai Con is around 60 kilometers south of the town of Quang Ngai in its namesake province.
- To reach the beach, visit the Sa Huynh Tourism Site in Pho Thanh Commune in Duc Pho District. You can park your vehicles there or around the site. Then ask a xe om (motorbike taxi) to take you to Bai Con (about VND15,000 per person) as there are no parking lots near the beach . You will arrive at Bai Con twenty minutes later.
- You should bring food to enjoy at the beach.
- Apart from Bai Con, you can also explore Hoc Mo Cave in Thanh Duc 2 Hamlet in Pho Thanh Commune and travel around Ma Vuong Hill in the neighboring Pho Khanh Commune to see historic archeological sites.
We moved back and went east. Not long after, we saw smoke rising into the air from people baking oysters. We sheltered behind a large rock to avoid the smoke.
When locals have some free time, they come to the beach with lit torches. They choose some rocks to which numerous oysters cling and bake them. The high temperature force the oysters to open their mouths but their shells are still attached to the rocks.
They are then seasoned with pepper, salt, and lemon juice before the meat is taken out and consumed, accompanied very often by local alcohol. If you are a visitor, chances are you will get invited by the hospitable residents to join them for this special meal.
It is also possible to buy fresh oysters on the way to Bai Con for around VND35,000 (about $2) per kilogram. An oyster soup of rice porridge is a surprisingly enjoyable meal.
Local residents will extend their hospitality if you ask to join them as they take their boats out to sea. Drifting on the gentle waters of Bai Con is a good way to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
When you are on the boat, it is not a bad idea to carry a pair of binoculars to watch monkeys forage for food on the nearby mountain.
read more >>> - Set in stone
The “Great Wall” of central Vietnam tells a fascinating story of collaboration and ingenuity
The “Great Wall” of central Vietnam tells a fascinating story of collaboration and ingenuity
Archaeologists study artifacts unearthed at a post on the rampart in the Chim Hut Pass area in the central province of Quang Ngai. (Photo by Hien Cu)Archeologists surmise that it is an unusual work involving local indigenous H’re people, the Kinh ethnic group and Nguyen Dynasty soldiers.
After five years of excavation and study, it has been determined that the 200km-long rampart that runs from Quang Ngai to Binh Dinh provinces in central Vietnam is around 500 years old.
Researchers from the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology and the French School of the Far East in Hanoi say the historical relic runs along the Truong Son mountain range through eight districts of Quang Ngai before running into the districts of An Lao and Hoai Nhon in Binh Dinh, separating the plains and the highlands.
The longest and largest rampart in the country and the entire Southeast Asian region winds through mountains and valleys, sometimes at altitudes of nearly 800m, is 4-5m high and 6m wide at its base.
The wall is large and diverse, made of stone in some places to avoid landslides on high slopes and mountainous areas. These parts are a testament to the amazing rock arrangement skills of the indigenous H"Re people. The parts made of earth/lay were built mostly by the Kinh people and soldiers of the Nguyen Dynasty.
The rampart’s stones arrangement techniques, varying in different sections and terrains, can also be seen in structures on Ly Son Island in Quang Ngai Province.
Many researchers believe, based on notes found in the book of Dai Nam Thuc Luc (the annals of Dai Nam or the true record of the great south) and geographical records maintained during King Dong Khanh’s reign (1885-1889) and other documents compiled under the Nguyen Dynasty, that the rampart with 115 guarded posts was mostly built by general Le Van Duyet of the Nguyen Dynasty in 1819 during the reign of King Gia Long (1802-1820).
However, according to Dr. Nguyen Tien Dong, chief technical officer of the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology, the wall was built more than 500 years ago by the Vietnamese Kinh people, the H’re people and soldiers. By the 19th century, it was maintained as a military project, he said.
Dr. Nguyen Dang Vu, director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Ngai, said some sections of the rampart on the mountains in Quang Ngai Province existed several centuries earlier. He speculates that these sections may have been built by General Bui Ta Han (1496–1568), known for both literary and martial art skills, when he was assigned to the head position of Quang Nam.
The discovery of many ceramic artifacts during excavations at some sections of the rampart also proves that the rampart was built in the 16th century, not the 19th; and the close trading relationships that existed between Vietnamese Kinh peoples and the indigenous ethnic minorities, including H"Re, Chinese, Ka Dong, Xo Dang, and the Ba Na.
One more thing that makes the rampart interesting is that it was built not only for protection and military purposes but also to facilitate trade. Along the wall, the sections which are interrupted by many rivers and streams, are the mini-forts, guarded by soldiers, to ensure and create a safe environment for the Kinh and H"Re ethnic people to do business.
Each of the forts mentioned earlier was an open gate that facilitated travel and trade. The H’re people bought salt from Vietnamese people and the Vietnamese people bought rice, cinnamon and forest products from the H’re.
Experts studying the rampart also say that there is evidence that it was not just the Vietnamese Kinh people, but also the Thai and the Muong from Thanh Hoa Province who were part of the migration from the north to the south during the 18th century.
During the Vietnam War, the rampart sections in Duc Pho and Hoai Nhon districts in Quang Ngai and Binh Dinh provinces respectively were also used as a branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail to transport weapons and food from the north to the south of the country.
Unearth and preserve
Researchers say the conclusions they have reached over the last five years are still preliminary findings. They are looking for foreign documents about the relic, and will continue excavation works to unlock more secrets about the very unique architectural structure.
Dr. Nguyen Giang Hai, vice director of the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology, said that, “The heritage is still alive if only the locals have the heart to preserve. Therefore, there is a need to sow the seed of consciousness for protecting the relic in the community living alongside the structure.”
Prof. Christopher Young, head of the UK Heritage Council’s Advisory Board, said, “The general principle is that a world heritage is not something to admire, but that it is for the benefit of people. Therefore, the development of tourism related to this relic should involve benefits such as income-generation opportunities for communities living alongside.”
For its part, the institute should help Quang Ngai and Binh Dinh prepare the application for the rampart to be recognized as a national, cultural and historical relic. The legal recognition will help to protect it better and will also be necessaery preparatory work for subsequent recognition as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO, Hai added.
read more >>> - Neither gone nor forgotten
Old Vietnam is alive and well at one of the country’s most sacred pagodas
Old Vietnam is alive and well at one of the country’s most sacred pagodas
Clay statues depict 18 Arhats (Buddhist monks post-enlightenment) at Chuong PagodaChuong Pagoda, the centerpiece of Vietnam’s largest port in the 17th and 18th centuries, still stands as a tall reminder of Vietnam’s not so distant past: a time of spirituality, tradition and simple beauty.
Still the most scenic spot in the former town of Pho Hien, now a part of the town of Hung Yen, the pagoda has lost none of its historic allure.
Pho Hien was once the north’s premier port city and a vibrant commercial and cultural melting pot of Vietnamese and foreign peoples. It was second only to the capital city of Thang Long (now Hanoi) in terms of commercial activity.
Today, visitors to Hung Yen can see the unique historical and cultural remains of the past at Chuong (Bell) Pagoda.
Built in the 15th century under the Le Dynasty, the pagoda was then restored in 1707 in the architectural style of the post-Le period.
The pagoda’s name came from a legend:
In the days of myths and folk tales, a golden bell drifted to the shore of the Red River in Nhan Duc Village during a flood and when the waters receded it began to sink in the mud.
Throngs of residents of neighboring villages rushed to Nhan Duc to save the bell but they could not make it budge, it was too heavy.
Eventually a group of Nhan Duc villagers were able to take the bell home. Believing they had been granted the charm by God, the villagers then built a pagoda to worship the bell, whose toll could be heard for miles around.
Also known as Kim Chung Tu (Golden Bell Pagoda), the religious complex was built with meticulous attention to detail.
After entering the Cong tam quan (three-entrance gate), which has eight roofs, visitors cross a stone bridge over a lotus pond. The bridge will lead them to a brick patio made of bricks from Hanoi’s famous Bat Trang handicraft village.
Walking across the stone walkway in the middle of the patio is like walking through time. The path leads to a courtyard in front of the sanctuary compound. The bell tower and altar house, where local residents worship their ancestors, follow next
HOW TO GET THERE
- Chuong Pagoda is located in Nhan Duc Village, Hien Nam Ward, Hung Yen Town, Hung Yen Province, 64 kilometers south-east from Hanoi.
- From Hanoi, tourists can take buses 205, 208, or 209 from the Luong Yen and Giap Bat bus stations to get to the pagoda.
- They can also book private buses at Hanoi’s Gia Lam bus station for the trip.
- Another way is to travel by boat on the Hanoi – Pho Hien route from the Red River tourism wharf.
Cong tam quan (Three-entrance gate) at Chuong Pagoda in the northern province of Hung YenThe pagoda, recognized as a National Architectural Relic by the government in 1992, has many carved Buddha statues, including the Tam The (three Buddhas of the Past, Present and Future), A-di-da (Amitabha), and four Bo-tat (Bodhisattvas).
Next is a startling wood relief depicting the Thap Dien Diem Vuong (Ten Courts Managed by the 10 Kings of Hell).
In it, sinners are depicted serving out punishments for their crimes: some are being dumped into a cauldron of boiling oil; others are having their tongues cut out.
But the Thap bat La Han (18 Arhats), made of clay, are much more peaceful. Each one depicts a wise monk expressing a different attitude.
The Arhats are Buddhists who have achieved full spiritual fulfillment. They have reached “Nirvana,” the state of absolute freedom from worldly cravings, and thus they are no longer subject to reincarnation.
Tourists can go up to the bell tower before contemplating a stele which dates back to 1711, built under the reign of King Le Du Tong. On the stele is engraved a picture of Pho Hien and the city of Thang Long.
The stele helped researchers locate the commercial road that once connected Pho Hien and Thang Long. It used to pass right by the Chuong Pagoda gate. The map also helped historians locate the borders of Pho Hien’s original 20 wards
The mad hatters of Chuong Village
Chuong Village has been the home of Vietnam’s famous non la (conical leaf hat) for centuries.
The small village, around 30 kilometers from downtown Hanoi, is often crowded with people buying non la and also watching local craftswomen make it.
The village’s Non Market is open from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m., six times a month, on the 4th, 10th, 14th, 20th, 24th, and 30th days of the lunar calendar.
Most non la are made from palm leaves. The leaf is cleaned with sand before being left in the sun to whiten. It is then evened by a blade.
The hat makers of Chuong Village, all women, then place the leaves over a frame made of bamboo circles. The leaves are tied into place with string and sewn from top to bottom. The excess leaves are then trimmed. Strong sewing makes the most durable hats.
Finally, to make the hat whiter and protect it from mold, the hats are singed with burning matches.
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