As we’ve suggested before, there are a lot of places in Hanoi that you should not miss! Find them here

So where should we go on a day trip to the suburban areas of the city?

1. Ham Lon mountain

Ham Lon mountain (means Jaw of Pig) is the highest mountain of Hanoi, located at the Doc Ton mountain ranges in Soc Son Dist. It is about 40km to the North of Hanoi. If you are having yourself a motorbike and driving towards the mountain, it only takes 1 – 1.5 hours to go from the center of Hanoi.

With the height of 426m, it is a good place that trekking enthusiasts cannot miss. Some Fansipan climbers said that this mountain is a perfect training place before adventuring the roof of Vietnam. At Ham Pang peak, there is an open land for visitors to camp and have BBQ parties. If mountain climbing is not your type, you can stop at Ham Swan Lake (also known as Suoi Bau Lake) at the foot of Ham Lon Mountain.

In addition, to not be lost, you can hire a local with the cost from 250,000 to 450,000. Furthermore, fire camping is a favorite activity here. The total cost for this weekend picnic is only about 300,000 – 500,000 VND/person.

2. Bat Trang ceramic village

Just over 30 minutes travel by motorbike from the center of the capital, you will get to Bat Trang, a famous ceramic village in Vietnam. Not solely is this place perfect for a family outing at the weekend but it is also helpful for children. Here, you are able to create pottery products by yourselves under the instruction of the local potters. Within only 20,000-30,000 VND, you can have such cute hand-made gifts for your friends and families at home. What a meaningful thing!

Moreover, while you are enjoying and wandering at the Bat Trang pottery market, you can also try the local cuisine here. You may want to stop at the small restaurants along markets to try some snacks at quite cheap prices. Especially, ink bamboo shoot soup is a traditional dish here. It is said that eating ink bamboo shoot soup, Bat Trang Village will appear in your mind. The perfect combination of the yellow of bamboo shoots and sweet water makes it a very special taste. Ink soup is usually served as a main dish during the traditional holidays, wedding ceremonies, and anniversaries of the local. Do not miss this great opportunity!

3. Ba Vi National Park

To explore nature and dive into ecotourism, Ba Vi National Park is a very sensible choice for a-day trip as the place is well-reserved and protected by the government. The parkland embraces the top three highest peaks of the area which are Vua (means King), Tan Vien, and Ngoc Hoa. In the Park, visitors are free to do physical activities as long as not cause bad effects to the environment. Walking or riding bicycles are 2 most enjoyable activities here in the large pine forests.

Not only being well-known of a variety of plants, Ba Vi is also famous for its cactus greenhouses, built in a relatively new and a different style. Coming here, you are surprised with different types of cacti. Just after a day in Ba Vi, you will feel more energetic and fresh.

4. Kim Boi Hot Spring

Kim Boi Hot String is an interesting outside place of Hanoi for relaxation after those long days inside the busy city. This spot is 70km far away from Hanoi. It is a natural hot spring with many  beneficial minerals for our health. According to a research, the high levels of minerals have positive effects on bone and joint diseases, pain, and fatigue, etc. The temperature in the spring is always about 34 – 36 °C. There are two types of services including a mineral bath and a mud bath which cost 65,000 VND/time.

Furthermore, you can visit Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant nearby, the largest ones in Vietnam. If you do not want to move around, you can enjoy all day with Muong people’ food, for instance, Buffalo meat and Chinese knotweed.

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Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam – has stood out strongly through the 4000 years history of the country. Places below are the ones you can not and should not miss on your trip to Hanoi. Some may say if you did not visit these places then you hadn’t had come to the city!

1. Ba Dinh Square – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ba Dinh Square – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a historical place in Hanoi that has witnessed several heroic events over thousands of years. At the present, this is considered as the political centre of Vietnam with the Houses of Parliament, the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh Museum.

Ba Dinh Square – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ba Dinh Square is the greatest Square in Vietnam, located on the street which was named after our first King – Hung Vuong – and being in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. That is where, on September 2nd, 1945, Ho Chi Minh, President of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, read the Declaration of Independence. This is also the place where parades take place on official occasions. Therefore, Ba Dinh Square has significant meaning in the Vietnamese’ hearts and become an attractive place for domestic and foreign visitors.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of the Vietnamese great leader Ho Chi Minh. His building is enclosed by green bamboo. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is available for tourists every morning except for Monday and Friday. Come along, please pay attention to dress formally, do not carry electronic devices to record, and be quiet in the mausoleum.

2. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake or Sword Lake is one of the most peaceful areas in downtown Hanoi. The Hanoians usually get together here to stay away from the hustle and bustle  of the city. The name relates to the legend where an old turtle gave the King a sword to chase out the foreign invaders. Located in the center of the city, Hoan Kiem Lake looks like the heart of this thousand-year-old city.. Around the lake, there are architectural works namely Pen tower, The Huc bridge leading to Ngoc Son temple, Statue of King Le Thai To, and Hoa Phong tower, etc.

3. Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is a historic pagoda located at the center of a small isle. Getting there, you immediately feel peaceful and fresh. Every year, there are a countless number of arrivals to sightseeing its ancient. The Ngoc Son temple opens to visitors from 8 a.m to 5 p.m on a daily basis.

Ngoc Son Temple

The tickets to get inside are sold at a small booth located on the left of the main post office addressed next to the lake. In order to enter the temple, tourists need to walk across The Huc Bridge. Standing right at the middle of the bridge, tourists can take pleasure in the panoramic view of Ngoc Son Temple and the Turtle Tower. When the sun comes down, the whole surface is lit up by the sunshine, making a amazingly magnificent view.

4. Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature is one of the most popular tourist sites of Hanoi, which was built in 1907 at the time of the Ly’s dynasty. The temple hosted the Imperial Academy, the Vietnam’s first national university. Over nearly two centuries, in spite of having to face wars and disasters, the temple still successfully remains ancient architectural styles as well as precious relics. It is a pride of the people in Hanoi when referring to the thousands-year-old historical culture of Thang Long – Dong Do – Hanoi. Temple of Literature is better known as a symbol of Vietnamese education and education. This is also a ritual place to worship the Confucius, sages, and scholars, especially Chu Van An, the highest rector of the Imperial Academy.

Temple of Literature

In order to visit the Temple of Literature, travelers can get there by public or personal means of transportation  (motorbike, bus, and taxi). If you are going by personal means of transportation, you should notice on the one-way street around the Temple of Literature. In case you are taking a bus, bus lines including 02, 23, 38, 25, and 41 are available for you.

5. Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison was constructed in 1896 as the “Maison Central” by the French colonists, which housed revolutionary soldiers against colonial rules. This historical building was one of the firmest structures in Indochina at that time. After the liberation of Hanoi, the prison was put under the authorization of the Revolutionary Government. From 1963 – 1975, this place was also used as a place to take into custody American pilots shot down by the Vietnamese 

Hoa Lo Prison

Nowadays, Hoa Lo Prison has been formed as a special monument with multiple of valuable documents displayed and preserved carefully. In the yearly basis, it is an attraction to thousands of domestic and foreign visitors. The place opens at 8 a.m and closes at 5 p.m everyday with a 2 hours lunch break from 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m. The entry ticket costs 30,000 VND per person. In case people come Hoa Lo Prison by bus, there are many available lines namely 02, 09, and 23, etc.

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New Year’s Eve is coming, thus, a lot of firework spots have been set up through the city to celebrate this occasion. This year, the firework performances will last for 15 minutes from 00:00 to 00:15 January 1st, 2020.

Here comes 6 places for you to enjoy the remarkable moment in between two decades in Sai Gon

1. The Landmark 81 

With the height of 461,3m, The Landmark 81 is better known as the tallest building in Vietnam, the second in the South East Asia and the 16th in the world. And there is no doubt to say that this is the best place in Sai Gon to enjoy the fireworks show. Located in Binh Thanh district, close to the inner city, the building has a spacious and panoramic view for you to capture every single moment in your eyes. This skyscraper is a place you can not miss!

2. Around Thu Thiem Tunnel

Listing the places with the best view for the NYE show, we can not miss the area at the beginning of Thu Thiem tunnel (in District 2). This is one of the longest tunnels in Vietnam, connecting District 1 and District 2 of Ho Chi Minh city. Because of the magnificent view to the centre of the city, this place has for long been known by the locals as a sensible choice to enjoy the show of lights.

3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking street in Ho Chi Minh city is considered a good choice for groups of friends and families with a spacious area, and moreover, located at the most crowded area in the city – District 1. In addition, there are many count-down activities and festivals held annually at the street to welcome the new year. What can be better than enjoying the fireworks while watching your favorite artists performing?

4. Dam Sen Cultural Park 

Located at District 11, the Dam Sen Cultural Park is welcoming hundreds of people coming every last day of the year to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Even though not having a perfect view like those above, but this place is very easy to access thanks to the location at the centre area surrounded by district 5 – 6 – 10 – 11. More than that, there are many coffee shops and spaces for everyone to enjoy the upcoming new year. 

5. Bach Dang Terminal

The Bach Dang Terminal is lying parallely to Ton Duc Thang street right at the center of District 1. There is a park with road across the terminal which is 1,325m in length, making this place a nice choice for friends. 

6. Mong Bridge

Mong Bridge is located at Vo Van Kiet freeway which connects District 1 and District 4 of Ho Chi Minh city. This place is popular among the youth of the city every New Year Count-down. Giving the perfect to the centre of the city, especially to the Bitexco building, this place will get crowded at the night of the upcoming new year. 

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If you have not heard of it ,”Mat Biec” is expected to be the Vietnamese “blockbuster” of 2019. This romance movie, adapted from the book of the same name by writer Nguyen Nhat Anh, tells the love story of a young man – Ngan for his girlfriend from childhood – Halan. 

“Mat Biec” is probably one of the most viral movie  on the Internet at the moment. When scrolling down popular pages on social media, you will find extract, pictures and posts about the movie, which proves if needed the popular success of the film. 

Among the things have gone viral, there are beautiful shots taken from amazingly stunning Hue, the old imperial of Vietnam during the Nguyen’s dynasty. Having been confirmed by the talented director Victor Vu, these 2 beautiful hills below are extremely good places for checking in and will drive you out of this world!

1. Thien An hill: Myrtle forest where love begins

Located at Thuy Bang, Huong Thuy town which is about 10km to the South West of the centre of Hue, Thien An hill was where the shot Ngan and Ha Lan playing in the myrtle forest taken. 

Surrounded by several lines of pine above a countless number of ferns, the special thing about this location is it will differ a bit from that of the novel on which the film is based. It’s at once romantic, satisfied and pure reminding us of magnificent shots from the series “Twilight”. This was where most of the romantic scenes between Ngan, Ha Lan and Tra Long was taken.

2. Vong Canh hill: The spot where love is growing

This place is usually mistaken to Thien An hill, because the ekip of the film only confirmed having taken beautiful shots there. But actually, this is the real place where the Ngan’s guitar sounds.  

Located 7km away from the centre of beautiful Hue, Vong Canh hill is at 102 Huyen Tran Cong Chua street, Hue. This location is actually a bit far away from Thien An but is still mistaken due to the familiarity of the space. It takes you 10 minutes to get to Vong Canh from Thien An hill by car.

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Despite the fact that Christmas is not officially celebrated in VIetnam, this is still the time get people closer to enjoy happy moments together. Therefore, it is like “a war” during Christmas to coffee shops, when every shop get themself redecorated to be well-noticed by the citizen. Here comes 10 coffee shops that have stood out and became very popular to the people of Hanoi.

1. Orioma Coffee

Address: 8 Tay Ho street

Just having been opened recently, this coffee shop still remains a newcomer to the people which makes it not too crowded. With a large and well-decorated space which is very suited to Christmas, you can not miss this one if you are looking for a place to chill and relax!

2. Trill Bistro

Address: 98 Hang Buom street

Normally, Trill Bistro has already become an attraction to many young people to come and take themselves eye-catching photos thanks to an interesting way of decoration. Especially in this Christmas, this place is getting more cool stuffs carrying the spirit of the holiday. That’s why there are so many trendy photo albums coming from this spot!

3. Villa Des Fleurs

Address: 42 Tran Phu street

Not standing out of “the war” during Christmas, Villa Des Fleurs has been “armed” with perfect angles and spots which may drive you out of this world with its unforgettable decoration.

4. Cotero Coffee

Address: 80 To Ngoc Van street

Located near the West lake, Cotero is also one of the coffee shops that are not too crowded and noisy during the holiday. This place comes into people’s minds by a fresh space and nice music which really helps you relax after hard working days.

5. Baked by Julie

Address: 193 Hang Bong street

Baked by Julie is a perfect combination of Noel and sweet lollipop style. Girls who are looking for cuteness and appealing experience will definitely fall in love with this one!

6. Mr. K Tea House

Address: 364 Hue street

If you are looking for a different feeling in Christmas when red and white take place, you may pay attention to this blue pastel tea house. By going through the pictures below, you will understand why just a door can make a masterpiece!

7. Hello Stranger

Address: 33B Pham Ngu Lao street

Having already stood out as one of the most popular coffee houses to the people in Hanoi, this eye-catching coffee shop has changed its outlook bringing an immensely cozy ambience to visitors. 

8. Sam Rooftop Coffee

Address: 8th and 9th floor, 58/298 Tay Son street

This one also brings a different experience in general than the others to the people. Located on the roof of an old French house in Hanoi, the coffee shops retains both the cozy feeling of an up in years Hanoi and the modernizing feeling of lights and stuffs. Let’s try something new in this Christmas!

9. La Fleur Tea and Dessert Coffee

Address: 2nd floor, 22B Hai Ba Trung street

All the recommendations above are introduced as places for you to chill, but if you enjoy the cheerfulness and happiness of people, La Fleur Tea and Dessert Coffee is a good choice for you! Located very close to the center of Hanoi, and well-decorated with lights and other properties, this one is a place you can not miss when you visit to Hanoi this Christmas.

10. Koné Coffee

Address: 295 Kham Thien street

Another rooftop coffee house, but this one is located close to one of the most busy crossroads of Hanoi. Kone Coffee is an okey-dokey spot for those who love checking-in and being on social network thanks to remarkable pictures taken here.

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In case you have not noticed, we posted an article to give you a brief overview of Christmas in Vietnam. Check it out here

Generally speaking, Christmas is not an official public holiday in the country. But the celebration is now enjoyed not only by the Christian community across the country, but also seen as an time of fun and coming together for many local people…

Few weeks ahead of Christmas day, offices and shops redecorate themselves with the holiday’s spirit, which usually are Christmas trees, candles, bells,… Some shops and restaurants also choose that time to give out offers and special promotions for their customers.

The Christian in Vietnam still celebrate this holiday as its original form. Families gather together, after the Midnight Mass, they get back home and enjoy the Christmas’ specialties. Chicken soup and juicy fruit cakes are the local substitute for Turkey and Christmas puddings.

If you are in Vietnam and wondering where to go on Christmas day, check out our suggestions below for a happy holiday.

#1 In Hanoi

In the capital, many people celebrate Christmas holiday. Especially among the younger generation there. The weather is usually cold on Christmas night. So don’t forget your jackets and scarf and plan a night tour in Hanoi

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

Located in downtown Hanoi, the St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the oldest colonial buildings in the city. It is very popular for its nearby lively cafes and shops.  This beautiful Neo-Gothic church built in 1886 by the French colonial government. resembling the Notre Dame in Paris. The Cathedral remains active thanks to Hanoi’s large local Christian community.

Every Christmas Eve, many people, both locals and foreigners gather for musical and spiritual festivities .

Hang Ma street

Hang Ma may be the most well-known old quarter in Hanoi. You can find all kinds of decorations the small shops quickly adapt to the Christmas vibes as soon as the winter comes. Hang Ma street usually comes up into people’s jokes, because in Vietnamese “Hang ma” means goods for the dead. Sometimes, you may hear someone say he/she is going to buy an iPhone at Hang Ma, which refer to something impossible at the moment. Take a walk on those street, and you instantly will feel the Christmas vibe.

What to do?

Dinner at a fancy restaurant

Every hotels and restaurants usually offer Christmas buffet dinners.  Performances accompanying the meal are generally presented.

Join a music festival

There is an annual Music Festival held in the Hanoi Opera House every Christmas eve and on Christmas day

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Dive into Hanoi’s unique culture

Hanoi is one of the only city in Asia with tree-lined boulevards, French architecture, mixed with traditional temples dating back hundreds of years.

#2 In Ho Chi Minh city

In the biggest and most modern city in Vietnam, Christmas is commemorated by nearly everyone living in Sai Gon ( the name of Ho Chi Minh city before 1975, and still can be used today).

The people here are always ready for parties which makes Christmas a great chance to get out to the street and have fun!

Unlike other cities in the country, you can find almost every inch, every corner in the inner city carrying the vibe of Christmas. There is barely cold in Ho Chi Minh city so who knows you may have one of the most unique feelings when celebrating in a summer-like weather.

Here something you can refer when not knowing what to do

Fall in romantic on the river

It is unfair to say only during Christmas that the city carries the scenes of western but the occasion is the one truly brings everything of western in Saigon comes alive. With decorations, crowded streets filled with foreigners and twinkling lights, the roads may get too overwhelmed!

Why don’t we go far from the hustle and bustle of the city and get onto the peaceful and lazy Saigon River? The river, even not as clean as it once was, is still an appealing reminder of what the city has come through. Laying on a romantic cruise is going to be an ideal standpoint from which to observe the city in all its fantasy.

Sit above all and watch small things underneath

Another way to still be in the city’s Christmas festivities in absence of hiding from the chaos is to take a seat at one of the Saigon’s rooftop bars and slowly watch everything underneath you. From the one and only Chill skybar with its amazing panoramic view to The View on Bui Vien.

Take me to church

The Notre Dame Cathedral in District 1 is the iconic place in Saigon. Designed like the Notre Dame Church in Paris, the one in Saigon cater to its Christian congregation. And the church is also a symbol of peace and harmony between religions and skin colors in Saigon.

#3 In Hoi An

Originally a fishing village and an important port in Southeast Asia, Hoi An  architecture influences come from China, Japan and France. It is a breathtaking landscape on the riverside of Thu Bon river gives it the ambience of a small Venice. Thanks to its peaceful air and ideal location, the town has become the favorite spot of many excursions and tours visiting Vietnam.

You can enjoy the gastronomy and the local cuisine, ride a bicycle around or even have your own unique tailor-made clothes by one of the many skillful tailors in the town. The best time to stay there is when the Lantern Festival occurs and have a voice inside your head singing:

“This one’s for you and me, living out our dreams

We’re all right where we should be

With my arms out wide I open my eyes

And now all I wanna see

Is a sky full of lighters

A sky full of lighters”

(Lighter – Bruno Mars)

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Founded by the French in the early 20th century, Sapa has become one of northern Vietnam best tourist attractions.

The town is orientated to maximize the breathtaking views appearing on clear days. Sapa usually hides itself in a fanciful mist, which is going to bring tranquility and peacefulness to your soul.

If you are planning a trip to a magnificent high town, make up your mind. This is among the best places in Vietnam to find a trekking base, where hitch-hikers get underway in to a local countryside of cascading fields and small and cute little hill-tribe villages that looks like a world apart. When you have pitched in the area, you then truly understand why they call Sapa a hidden gem.

Let’s keep on reading to find out how to get to this beautiful place which is now easier to access thanks to the development of Vietnam’s highways. Hanoi is considered the start of our journey.

#1. Trains

Few years ago, this town used to be considered a hard place to go for international visitors. It was because there was no airline directly connected to it, and it also took nearly half a day to travel from Hanoi to Sapa via the highway since it was really bad back then. Therefore, going to Sapa by trains was the best choice and still remains genuine today.

Actually, there is also no direct railway to Sapa, they decided to move the tracks out of the town to keep the town nice and clean. You will need to take a train to Lao Cai station, which is about 38 km (25 miles) away from Sapa and catch a bus, a car or a motorbike to get to the hill or you may have your accommodation to pick you up. It is up to you.

These trains to Lao Cai start off at around 10 pm and arrive in the final station at 6 am the next day. You should book your tickets online and it is very easy to do so via Vietnam Railway’s website if you want to guarantee your seats because the tickets may be sold out before you get to the station.

There are 12 choices such as Victoria Express, Fansipan Express,…etc, for you to choose. They are different providers but all received good comments and reviews from the previous tourists.

The average cost for a ticket is from $25 depends on which class you want to go on. The only disadvantage is that they are all night train, so it will be difficult if you want to capture the magnificent landscapes outside. But on the bright side, you will be provided a high quality of night train which gives you a comfortable and deep sleep to be ready for the trip ahead.

#2 Cars

Cars, generally speaking for taxis, buses and vans, are now becoming more popular choices for travelers to Sapa thanks to its convenience and flexibility. The infrastructure of driving ways is modernizing rapidly in the north of Vietnam and highway to Sapa is no exception.

It is about 316 km away from Hanoi to Sapa and takes around 5 hours to get there without traffic jams. If you are planning to take a bus, there are multiple choices for you and they all are professional and trustworthy in this industry. They also have some decent stop on the road for you to go number 1 or get a refreshment after a long ride. In addition, the cabins are luxuriously designed and furnished with cozy and comfortable properties like soft pillows, free water, small displays for you to chill,… The average cost is from $15 each ticket. So cheap for a convenient experience huh?

On the other hand, if you want to drive to the town by yourself, it will be so much easier when you have a buddy accompanied. And this means of transportation is the most ideal if you need freedom to look around and discover here and there. This may take you around $25 to rent a car per day, but I think it is worthy for a nice ride.

Whether you are going on vans or buses, the best advantage of this way in comparison to going by train is that you can see the landscapes surrounding which also may be one of the most memorable experiences you never forget!

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In the wild, there are lots of animals that may appear innocent and friendly, but actually extremely dangerous to humans.

The pygmy slow loris (Nycticebus pygmaeus) is a species of slow loris, and usually found at the East of the Mekong River in Vietnam, Laos, eastern Cambodia, and China. With big round eyes, fluffy fur, they will slowly melt your heart. But this is one of the most deadly mammals in the world. They have poisonous parts under their elbow. When being threatened, they quickly lick that part of body and mix it with their saliva. One single bite of this animal can kill you within 30 minutes.

The wolverine, also referred to as the glutton, carcajou, skunk bear, or quickhatch is the largest  species of the family Mustelidae. They are found with a large number of individuals in the west of Canada and Alaska. But they are not as cute as they look. This predator has a muscular body with pretty fur, which is extremely ferocious. They can attack species that are several times bigger and mankind is not an exception. 

Conus geographus: This kind of snail has a very eye-catching pattern shell, lives on the coral reefs of India area. They may look harmless but contain more than 100 types of poison in this small shell. Some of them are fatal, and some of them can reduce the pain which let the person being bitten can not feel anything. This particularly dangerous effect is considered a big threat to divers. In 2004, there were about 30 people reported to be killed by this species.

The beaver (genus Castor) is a large, primarily nocturnal, semiaquatic rodent. This mammal is usually found in north america, and asia. Some people raise this animal as a kind of pet. But due to the change in living environment, this species can be highly dangerous to humans. These front teeth of them can go deeply into the victim’s blood vessel which causes bleeding leading to death. It does not even mention some cases that the animal can be rabid.

The fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) is possibly the most well-known salamander species in Europe. Being famous for this gorgeous black and yellow skin, they are treated as pets in some families. But do not judge a book by its cover, this little amphibian is poisonous and cause severe harm. When getting under threatened, this species spits out a ray of poison attacking enemies’ nerve systems.

Australia box jellyfish: Australia box jellyfish commonly known as the sea wasp, is a species of extremely venomous box jellyfish found in coastal waters from northern Australia and New Guinea to Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. This species has millions of cnidocytes which are covering up to 4m long tentacles. These units on contact release microscopic darts delivering an extremely deadly venom. Getting stung by these animals can result in excruciating pain, and more dangerously, the victim may die within 2 to 5 minutes if the sting area is significant.

Blue-ringed octopuses: This species are among the 4 most venomous species which are found in tide pools and coral reefs in the Pacific and Indian oceans, from Japan to Australia. Appearing like a pearl in the ocean, you may be curious and eventually touch them, and trust me, you will wish that you do not do that. They will bite and eject venom into the victim. Tetrodotoxin inside the poison is considered so much stronger than xyanua, which can kill 26 people in few minutes.

So be aware of your surroundings, and don’t forget these cautions above, especially when you are traveling alone.

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How is Christmas celebrated in Vietnam?

Christmas, popularly known as “Noel” from its French translation, isn’t an official public holiday in Vietnam. The holiday is now enjoyed not only by the Christian community across the country, but is also seen as an occasion to spend family time for many Vietnamese.

Starting December, you can spot hotels, movie theaters and even shops decorated with dazzling lights, stickers and Christmas trees. Christmas songs are on the playlist of many shopping malls for this year-end sales peak. In bigger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city, where a large community of expats lives, the festive atmosphere is real. 

Why spend Christmas in Vietnam this year?

Sure it’s time for coming together for many travellers in the Western countries, time for holiday sweaters and snuggling up binging Christmas movie list. But why not making it different this year? Many people are spending this precious time of the year in a foreign countries like Vietnam. Warmer weather, inexpensive accommodation, a relaxed atmosphere and a whole new adventure of dining and sightseeing, why not give Vietnam a try for the holiday this year?

Here is the list of our suggested destinations if you wish to stay in the North region of Vietnam for Christmas.

#1. St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi.

Located in downtown Hanoi, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the oldest colonial buildings in the city, and is routinely visited for its nearby lively cafes and shops.  This beautiful neo-Gothic church was built in 1886 by the French colonial government, resembling the Notre Dame in Paris. It remains active in the present day thanks to the capital city being home to a large community of local Catholics. 

Every year on Christmas Eve of December 24th, thousands of people, including both locals and foreign residents gather at the church for the musical and spiritual wonder.

#2. Sapa stone church

If you’re in need of the foggy, frosty feeling of Christmas week, Sapa would be the perfect choice. The town is famous for its unique rice terraces, massive FanSiPan peak, and peaceful ethnic villages. Sapa Church, the iconic feature in town, is a must-visit for anyone visiting this mountainous town. Constructed in 1895, the Sapa Stone Church still retains its gothic French architecture through the test of time, remains intact until today. Orginical culture traits of the ethnic people, seen in its cuisine, clothes and practise, had been signature of Sapa for years and travelers from across the world continue to me amazed. 

#3. Phat Diem Cathedral, Ninh Binh.

The limestone complex of Ninh Binh had attracted an increasing number of travelers in recent years, due to its pristine nature and proximity to Hanoi. Visiting the site in December, travelers can enjoy the off-season, high-quality service. Besides a chance to indulge in the stunning limestone mountains, a boat trip in Ninh Binh also takes you to Phat Diem Cathedral. Father Tran Luc, a Vietnamese priest designed the church in 1892. It’s an elegant combination of European and Vietnamese architecture, with pagoda style roofs. You should take a walk around the Kim Son district which is surrounding this stunning place of worship, giving you a look into the heavenly setting of Ninh Binh mountains.

#4. Halong Bay 

If you love the beach for a change of scene, consider this iconic complex for this Christmas. Winter makes a killer time of the year to cruise around Halong Bay as the weather is much drier. By celebrating Christmas on the bay you can immerse in the breathtaking scenery with limestone karsts of multiple shapes and sizes, as well as sandy tropical beaches. Onboard experience also adds highlights to all cruises in Halong Bay. Enjoy your Christmas dinner with fresh seafood, served with top-notch cocktails. The crew are often super friendly and attentive, ready to show you the beauty of the land they take pride in. There are various exciting activities to finish the experience, from kayaking, rowing boat and cycling to cooking class. The temperature might not be ideal for swimming, but you can maximize your experience with modern and high-quality facilities such as spa, bar, and gym.

Feeling excited? Hope you enjoy the trip here in Vietnam!

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You can check out for more in out first part.

When it comes to Vietnam, which are the city that first comes to mind?Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City? Have you heard of Da Nang in central Vietnam? The beautiful coastal city packed with great attractions to discover. 

Da Nang is a dynamic city located between Hoi An ancient town and Hue. In recent  years, the city has witnessed significant growth , especially in the tourism industry.

#5 Hoa Phu Thanh entertainment park

This is a newly established tourist attraction in Da Nang city. There you have a chance to slide from the waterfall and enjoy adventurous yet wonderful moments. In 2015, the park introduced Zipline as a new attraction  for the fearless.

Note that you should not visit the park in the rain or storm. Make sure to prepare waterproof clothing.

#6 Ngu Hanh Son

Ngu Hanh Son, or Marble Mountain, is a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located in Da Nang city. The five mountains are named after five elements: Kim (metal), Thuy (water), Moc (wood), Hoa (Fire), and Tho (Earth).

There are caves entrances and numerous tunnels inside all of the mountains. Several Buddhist sanctuaries can also be found within the mountains.

#7 Hai Van Pass

Hai Van is known as Sea Clouds in English. When you go there, you will understand the meaning of his name. Hai Van pass offers a spectacular landscape of verdant mountains and clear blue skies, which makes you feel like you are walking on clouds some time.

The mountain pass stretches 25 kilometers with plenty of sudden curves and blind corners, making it a favorite place of thrill-seeking motorcyclists.

#8 Museum Of Cham Sculpture

The museum houses the most extensive collection of ancient Cham relics in the world. If you may not know, Champa was an ancient kingdom that flourished in Southern Vietnam in the 4th century.

The attraction is worth a visit if you want to learn more about this archaic culture and people.

#9 My Son Sanctuary

This is the former worship grounds of the Champa kingdom that once occupied Southern Vietnam. There you will find intricate carvings of various Hindu Gods and a few buildings of a bygone era. Do not miss the opportunity to travel back in time and explore the overgrown ruins surrounded by mountains.

There are a lot more attractions in Da Nang, but the ones above are the most significant. Take your time and try to see the most of them  to make your trip really memorable.

Thanks for reading!

Find yourself a local buddy here: TUBUDD

Instagram: @yourTubudd
Email: [email protected]
Hotline: +84 915155511 – +84 896684588