Ho Chi Minh City, the former Saigon, is often offered to as Vietnam’s jewel and the Pearl of the Orient.
The official name change took place in 1976, following the reunification of the country.
Ho Chi City is not only a commercial center but also a scientific, technological, industrial and tourist
center. It is the second most important in Vietnam after Hanoi. The main ethnic groups populating the area are
the Kinh and Hoa.
It is well worth a visit for its bustle and activity, it will help put many of the other things you will
see as you tour Saigon in some kind of special features. The central Saigon, which is still the
official name for the city center, shows evidence of the French colonial city, with wide, tree-lined
boulevards, sidewalk cafes, and elegant French architecture. The city is currently more being rebuilt.
Some attractions: Reunification Conference Hall, History Museum, Zoo and Botanical Garden, Ben Thanh
Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda, Nha Rong Wharf.
Cu Chi Tunnels & Tay Ninh
The Cu Chi Tunnels are located in the outer northern suburbs of Ho Chi Minh City. This renowned network of
tunnel is over 250km long and became famous around the world during the Vietnam War. This was the site of years
of fierce struggles and an example of the endurance of the Vietnamese people. Once you visit Cu Chi, you will
comprehend the reason why Vietnam won the war despite the overwhelming force of modern weapons and endless
money support. This network of tunnels was built and used as the Vietnamese guerillas’ nearest base to Saigon
during the Vietnam was. It is now a major attraction for foreign tourists as well as for local people.
Proceed further to the West and tourist will be guided to Tay Ninh, the headquarters of Cao Daism, a
religion very popular in the Mekong Delta area. Tourists will be amazed by the magnificent Great Temple or Holy
See.
Both of these spots can be visited in a full day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. The contrast between these two
places is striking.
My Son
My Son, located at Southern Vietnam,70 km southwest of Da Nang, was a center for spiritually
and worship during the reign of the Champa Kingdom. It is a large complex ofmonuments originally
composed of more than 70 structures, a series of impressive tower-templess located in a dramatic site that was
the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for most of its existence, that remains can mainly
found at My Son, which is a day trip from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Reaching the sanctuary of My Son, you will see everything that has contributed to Viet Nam history . My Son
is an important past. Probably you will find the riddle of the Chams ? Let’s look closely at any one of the
temples ?
Hoi An
Hoi An, known as Faifo by early Western traders, is a well-known commercial seaport with an age-old
history. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Hoi An became the most prosperous intersection of culture and
trade in Vietnam. It is so surprising that through so many historical and natural changes, Hoi An still remains
as it has been for centuries.
Coming to Hoi An, you can touch with your own hands the ancient and "mossy" beauty of the living
architectural assemblage with its old houses, congregation assembly halls, temples, pagodas, bridge etc. They
are preserved intact and you are able to feel the shape and the breath of the past.
Coming to Hoi An, you will be able to enjoy tropical sunshine breezes and wonderful beaches. Together with
the good natured and hospitable Hoianians, you can take a walk in the legendary "night of the ancient town" so
attractive and beautiful with glittering lanterns in all the streets, contemplate the natural beauty of the
quiet and peaceful villages of the carpenters, fishermen, potters, farmers and vegetable planters.
Coming to Hoi An, you will have the opportunity to buy or order beautiful clothes, instantly-made by the
skillful hands of Hoianians at unexpectedly low prices.
Coming to Hoi An and see and perceive the unique grace of this charming town.
Just come to Hoi An and discover its charm!
Hue
Hue is a province of Central Vietnam bordered on the north by Quang Tri province, on the south by Da Nang
city, on the west by the Truong Son Mountains, and on the east by the East Sea. It is located 650 km south of
Hanoi and 1,080 km north of Ho Chi Minh City.
Hue is situated in a zone with a tropical monsoon climate divided into four distinct seasons: fresh spring,
very hot summer, mild autumn, and windy, cold winter. The average annual temperature is 25C. The most
convenient time to visit this area is from November to April.
Hue has ancient roots. Towards the 13th century, it had already been added to the Dai Viet Kingdom as a
gift from the Champa King when he married Princess Huyen Tran of the Tran dynasty.
The topography filled with obstacles has given Hue a particular position in Vietnamese history. Prince
Nguyen Hoang chose Hue as the capital of the Southern Region (1558), King Quang Trung chose Hue as the capital
of the Tay Son dynasty (1788 - 1802), and King Gia Long chose Hue as the capital of the Nguyen dynasty (1802 -
1945). For approximately 400 years, Thua Thien Hue in general and Hue in particular has been the political and
cultural central of the Feudal State of Vietnam.
This history is why hundreds of historical and cultural vestiges are located in the area. . Hue is the only
ancient capital consisting of walls, palaces, and royal tombs – the remain of the huge Citadel, the Imperial
Enclosure, The Palace of Supreme Harmony and The Halls of the Mandarins, the intriguing Purple Forbidden City.
Consequently, Hue is among Vietnam’s most valued national treasure in terms of history and heritage, also
recognized as World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Quang Tri Citadel
Quang Tri Citadel was built in 1824, during the 4th year of the reign of Minh Mang. The citadel is
approximately 60km north of Hue.
The citadel had a style of Vauban architecture with its circuit of 2,160m – one door each side. There were
four fortresses jutting out from each four corners to control the four citadel gates. Inside was the town
palace surrounded by a system of thick walls with circuit of 400m. The town palace was a three-roomed house
whose two wings were used as places for the King to worship, and to give promotions to his inferiors or to
occasionally celebrate festivals. Outside the town palace, there were a flagpole and castles such as Tuan Vu,
An Sat and Lanh Binh and a rice store, etc and under the French domination, soldier camp and tax agency were
added. However there are no remains of the past there nowadays – due to the destruction of U.S bombs in the hot
summer of 1972.
The incident of 81 days and nights (from June 28 to September 16, 1972) has made this citadel well-known
all over the world. By using fire-power, the South Vietnam puppet troop was determined to re-occupy Quang Tri
Citadel within a couple of days. Quang Tri Town, therefore, had to suffer from the U.S bombardment and shelling
of 140 B52 aircraft in turn, more than 200 tactical planes, 12 – 16 fighter planes and cruisers. Within 40 days
and nights it had suffered 80,000 tons of bombs – as many as that in the World War II in African battlefield
within a month. Sometimes the number of bombs dropped in Quang Tri a day was far more than that on the whole
South battlefield in the years of 1968-1969. Especially, on July 25, there were 5,000 shells fired at an area
of 3km2 of Quang Tri and its vicinity once suffered 20,000 shells of big size a day. The US aggressors used
bombs and shells with their destructive capacity, to destroy Quang Tri, equivalent to 7 atomic bombs they
dropped onto Hiroshima and Nagasaki – Japan in 1945. It is, really, unbelievable that each inhabitant in this
land had to suffer 7 tons of bombs averagely. All were determined, side by side with Quang Tri to fight to
their last breath. The Northern people had saved everything such as: ammunition, food and etc. to send to Quang
Tri.
The citadel has gone down in history as a glorious period of the nation’s war against foreign invasion. The
Vietnamese people are proud of it, and foreigners admire it.
Looking at its walls riddled with bullet holes, visitors will feel how devastating the war was. In order to
commemorate the soldiers’ meritorious service, a monument was set up in the centre of the citadel as a symbol
of the indomitable spirit of the Quang Tri people and army and as a token of gratitude to the sacrifices of the
fallen soldiers for the independence and freedom of the nation.
Ho Citadel
The citadel was erected in 1397, during the Ho Dynasty. The stone citadel was built in the shape of a
square with a gate on each side. The south wall gate is similar to the South Gate of Thang Long Wall. All four
walls are surrounded by deep channels, protecting the Imperial Palace inside. Upon completion of the wall, King
Ho Quy Ly moved the capital from Thang Long to Tay Do. The citadel was eventually destroyed and abandoned. Over
6 centuries have passed since the wall was erected, and only ruins of the South Gate remain.
Nowadays, inside the citadel are remains of the foundations of the royal places and two carved stone
dragons.
Ha Noi
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Its name Hanoi has existed since 1831 until present. This area was chosen
as the capital of Vietnam by the King Ly Thai To.
Originally the area was called Dai La. The name was changed to Thang Long in 1010. According to legend, on
the arrival of King Ly’s Dragon Boat on the Red River at Dai La, there was a sudden appearance of a dragon. The
King then named this land as Thang Long – The Ascendance of Dragon.
It has been nearly a thousand year since then, and, this serene land has been called by many different
names: Thang Long, Dong Kinh, Dong Do and today, Hanoi.
Throughout the Ly, Tran and Le Dynasties, Ha Noi has developed to be a vigorous central city with hundreds
of splendid and lustrous palaces and pagodas. Present day Hanoi still retains a great deal of historical and
cultural vestiges with architectures of great values including approximately 600 temples and pagodas, and is
abundant with ancient and busy commercial streets. Hanoi is also well-known as a city of rich cultural,
traditional and literature activities.
Hanoi still preserves many ancient architectural works including the Old Quarter and over 600 pagodas. Many
hectares of lakes lie intertwined between the streets, the largest ones being Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and
Truc Bach Lake. Many traditional handicrafts are also practiced in Hanoi including bronze molding, silver
carving, lacquer, and embroidery. Famous sites include the One Pillar Pagoda (built in 1042), the Temple of
Literature (built in 1070), the Tay Phuong Pagoda, which is very famous for its collection of statues, and
Lenin Park.
Hanoi, past or present, has always been admired as a capital of rich culture and is worthy to be the heart
of Viet Nam.
Phu Tho
Located in the Plains and Midland in the North of Vietnam, Phu Tho shares border with Tuyen Quang, Yen Bai
provinces on the north, Vinh Phuc, Ha Tay provinces on the east, Son La Province on the west and Hoa Binh
Province on the south.
The terrain is mainly made up by hills. There are also three big rivers namely Red, Da and Lo rivers
running through Phu Tho.
Phu Tho has a monsoon tropical climate with a cold winter and hot summer, annual average temperature of
23ºC, annual average rainfall of 1600-1800mm and annual average humidity of 85-87%.
Phu Tho is consider as ancestral land of Vietnam. Den Hung (Hung Temple). Remains is tied to the legend
about 18 Kings Hung who built Van Lang State, the first one of Vietnam, with Phong Chau as the capital.
Phu Tho has bright culture. Archaeological sites like Son Vi, Dong Dau, Lang Ca and many pagodas, temples,
tombs around Nghia Linh Mountain prove that Phong Chau used to be cultural center of ancient Vietnamese.
Xuan Son National Park and Ao Chau Pond are famous beauty spots of Phu Tho. Every year, Xuan Son attracts
many tourists to come for recreation and discovery diversified flora and fauna. Heading for Ao Chau, tourists
can enjoy the fresh air and taste local specialties like fruits, carps, turtles, crabs, snails and so on.
Phu Tho is home of many festivals including Bach Hac, Chu Hoa, and most honourable one is Den Hung
Festival. This festival is on 10th day of the 3rd lunar month annually corresponding to the anniversary of the
Kings Hung. Now, it becomes a great ceremonial festival of the Vietnamese nation.
Beside of these, the people here preserve some traditional songs: xec bua, vi, dum, xoan, gheo songs.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The mountains and sea combined to make Hoa Lu’s picturesque landscape. Hoa Lu lays in a flat valley
surrounded by the Trang An lime stone mountains, which form a natural wall protecting the old citadel. The
city’s northwest is bordered by the Hoang Long River, the tributaries of which run through the capital, cooling
the weather within the city and serving as convenient waterways.
The Royal Court was built in an area of 150 hectares in the eastern part of the capital while the western
part served as a site to educate and protect children.
As the capital of the country for 41 years, Hoa Lu has many palaces, pagodas, tombs and pavilions that were
built by different dynasties. One of the most popular pieces of architecture is the Bao Thien Tue Palace, which
was plated with gold and silver. However many vestiges have been destroyed due to time and weather.
When King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (now Hanoi) in 1010, two temples were
built to dedicate to King Dinh Tien Hoang and his successor Le Dai Hanh. These two temples were first built in
the 11th century and reconstructed in 1696.
Coming to Hoa Lu visitors can attend traditional cultural festivals here, and the most important and
largest of them is the Truong Yen Festival, which is held on the 10th day of the third lunar month. The
festival is in memory of the Kings of the Dinh and Le dynasties. The festival lasts for three days with many
traditional games and martial arts, reflecting local residents’ legends.
SCENERY
U Minh Forest
The section of U Minh Forest in Kien Giang Province is U Minh Thuong (upper U Minh) and the other
section in Camau Province is U Minh Ha (lower U Minh). U Minh Forest, a special swamp in the Cuu Long (Mekong)
Delta, is habitat to hundreds of precious fauna and flora species.
A large percentage of Camau Province’s area is covered by forest; 150,000ha being alluvial soils, typical of
the tropical monsoon climate. Being flooded everyday by tidal waters, the salt-bearing trees grow in this
environment with animals and microorganisms. U Minh Forest comprises several types of plants, the most common
being mam, mangrove, and indigo. The biological productivity of this land is the highest among Vietnam’s
ecosystems.
Ha Tien's Beauty
People visit Ha Tien hoping to capture the magic of the land in South Vietnam, where many heroic
historical places such as imperial tombs and ancient pagodas can be visited. Ha Tien is such a delightful
location that a French film company chose it to produce the movie "L'amant" (The Lover) in 1995. It is an ideal
location to spend holidays.
There are several attractions in the area: Thach Dong stone grotto, a piece of green stone emerging from the
ground; Chong stone; Hon Phu Tu, Father and Son rocks which lie approximately 100m offshore; and Hang Pagoda.
By boat, one can reach Hai Tac islets, 16 islets around which the water is 4m deep. On the coast of Hon Doc,
the largest islet is a magnificent white sand beach running towards the sea.
Near Hon Chong Beach is Tien Cave that has 2 openings; the east door on the sea and the west door, opening on
Duoc Beach. In the cave, there are many oddly shaped stone drops, some suggesting King Nguyen’s gold throne.
Hon Trem Beach, 1000m from Hon Chong Beach offers the nicest white sand in Ha Tien. Hang Pagoda is also very
interesting. This pagoda, 40m underground, somber and foggy, echoes the sounds of the pagoda’s bell on the
stone drops.
The Mekong Delta
From Ho Chi Minh City you can visit the Mekong River Delta, where extensive rice paddy fields spread
as far as the eyes can see. Peaceful villages are scattered along the banks of rivers and canals, lined with
rows of lush coconut palm trees. Everywhere you go, you will see coconut palms. The Coconut milk is sure to be
one of the most refreshing drinks on your trip. You can take a boat cruise along the numerous rivers or travel
from village to village in the Mekong River Delta. During your trip, you can see for yourself the countryside
of the South, which is very prosperous.
The Mekong Delta is located in the southern region of Viet Nam. It consists of a huge system of canals of all
sizes that flow into the Mekong River. The Mekong River is one of the longest rivers in Asia commencing in
China’s Tibet highland and flowing through Laos and Cambodia into Vietnam before reaching the sea. This area is
renowned for its rich soil and almost half of the region’s total land area is under cultivation. The Mekong
Delta is known as "Viet Nam’s Rice Belt" and produces enough rice to feed the entire population of the south
and central regions of Viet Nam, as well as exporting a huge surplus of nearly 2 million tons. The delta also
exports coconut, sugar cane, various fruits, and fish. You will quickly feel the hospitality of the local
people of the Mekong Delta.
Can Gio
The ecological forest of Can Gio is situated 50km away from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. With an area of
over 70,000 ha, of which 35,000 ha is salt-watered forest, Can Gio has been recognized as a biosphere reserve
of the world by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Can Gio has been recognized as a biosphere reserve after evaluation of various aspects, including the people,
ecology, environment and biosphere sustainability. Those who visited this place decade ago can hardly recognize
it today, due to the countless towering trees and plants that stretch out of sight, and the harmonious
biosphere of the coastal mangrove forest. So far nearly 40,000 ha of forest and land have been restored.
According to the Can Gio Forest Managing Board, at present more than 600 households with 1,500 people reside in
this area. They live on reforestation, forest protection and aquatic production. In the early 1970's, the
concept of "Biosphere reserve" was announced with the aim of protecting the species in danger of extinction.
The biosphere reserves must preserve the samples of the ecological systems in the world, and work as a
laboratory where research and observation of these ecological systems are undertaken. The reserve seeks
measures to help the local people benefit from nature.
Before the construction of a 20 km-long road linking Binh Khanh wharf to Can Thanh, which runs along Can Gio to
beach April 30, Can Gio was a remote area whose residents lived on catching crabs and mussels. Now it is an
interesting eco-tourist site attracting many people from Ho Chi Minh City and other places. The Saigon Tourism
Company and Phu Tho Tourism Company have established eco-tours to this area. Visiting Can Gio, you will see
crocodiles lying in the swamp and hundreds of monkeys that come from mangrove clumps to the walk-ways of Lam
Vien ecological site, to welcome the visitors. They catch sugarcane the visitors give them, and eat them with
delight. On holidays, there were averages of 2,000 visitors a day to Can Gio. At peak times there were over
6,000 visitors a day. Visitors could stay at the residential quarter April 30, adjacent to the beach or at
Actmang quarter in the 2,100ha Lam Vien area with countless mangrove trees. Quite a few people like to hire
hammocks and umbrellas to rest under the canopy of the trees.
In the near future the war zone in the shrub forest, which was home to 800 commando soldiers in wartime, would
be restored. It will become a 3,000m² preservation sites with 14 houses-on-stilts, roofed with date palm trunks
and water-coconut leaves. When this project is completed, Can Gio will have another traditional tourist site,
attracting not only young people, but also those who want to know more about the struggle of the fighters in
the shrub forest in the past.
Taking a boat ride on the big Dong Nai and Long Tau Rivers or on the smaller Vam Sac, Dong Thanh and Soai Rap
Rivers, which run through Can Gio, visitors will not think that they are visiting a district on the outskirts
of Ho Chi Minh City. They seem to be in the watery areas of Ca Mau and Kien Giang, the southernmost area in
Vietnam with vast mangrove and cajeput forests. The roots of the mangrove trees on the sides of the river twist
with one another then spread out and root deep into the earth. It is these roots that make Can Gio a protective
forest safeguarding millions of city dwellers, and an ideal ecological tourist site as well.
Cat Tien National Park
Cat Tien National Park is located in three provinces of Dong Nai, Lam Dong and Binh Phuoc. Cat Tien
National Park has a diversified topography with hills along the banks, plains and sloping flows.
In 1978, the South Cat Tien and North Cat Tien parks were put under the State's protection. In 1992, the Cat
Loc Park was listed in the programme for the protection of natural wild animals and flora. In December 1998,
these three parks joined together to become the Cat Tien National Park, under the management of the Ministry of
Agriculture and Rural Development.
Coming along National Highway 20 from Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat, turning left about 24km at Milestone No.174
being Tan Phu cross-road, visitors will reach Cat Tien National Park.
Covering an area of 74,319ha, the Cat Tien National Park has preserved its original natural soil with a diverse
ecological system and many rare and valuable species of animals listed in the Red Book of Endangered Animals.
The landscape surrounding the Park is magnificent, and the local people have maintained practising customs and
habits full of national cultural identities.
Let comeinto the forest on a trail covered with tree leaves. The sunshine was on the canopies, layer
after layer. The air was humid. The cicadas resounded over the forest. Don't forget to see a 400-year-old
conife there. Going a bit further you can see another tree, called bang lang (Lagerstroemie corniculata), which
is almost 300 years old. From its trunk of nearly 3m in diameter, 6 ivory sub-trunks sprouted. There are many
other strange trees in the forest: a red-wood tree having a diametre of 3.7m, a benjamin fig having a
fasciculate root that runs along the stream and can shade about 20 people, a banyan tree having a hollow trunk
which is large enough for 3 people, to name but a few. So far, in Cat Tien Park, 1,610 kinds of flora have been
classified which belong to 75 species, 162 families and 724 branches, many of them listed in the Red Book.
The Dong Nai River is a natural boundary that embraces three sides of Cat Tien Park. On the left bank, villages
and gardens are built close to the water, and on the right bank are wild forests with primitive green canopies.
Numerous species of birds built their nests in the canopies. Inside the primitive forest, there are various
kinds of fauna typical for the low land of the eastern Truong Son and the Central Highlands. According to
surveys made by the Park's Management Board, there are 77 kinds of animals belonging to 28 families and 10
species; 326 kinds of bird in 62 families and 18 species; 37 kinds of reptiles in 18 families and 3 species;
133 kinds of fish in 28 families, and a wide range of insects. Most worthy of note are the animals listed in
the Red Book of Endangered Animals such as Ban ten bull, Gaur bull, tiger, bear, wolf, black-foot monkey,
peacock, white-neck crane, pheasant (which are found only in Southeast Asia), crocodile, pantheon, etc. In
particular, there is a group of 7-8 one-tusk rhinoceros, which has attracted attention from both domestic and
foreign scientists. At 4 am, on May 17th, 1999, an automatic set of cameras captured images of a grown-up
rhinoceros, which has been classified as a member of the Java rhinoceros family. In November 1998, in Phu My
Village, Nam Cat Tien Commune, an ancient village dating back 2,500-3,000 years was discovered. This is a
complex of relics, including temples and towers and many artifacts, which proved the mixture of the Chan Lap
civilization of the south and the Cham Pa civilization of the north. Among the artifacts, there are several
statues which were for worshipping, such as the Linga-Yoni (sacred worshipping items representing the human
sexual organs). There is a Linga, 2.1m high, which is the biggest of this kind in the world. Many other
vestiges showed that Cat Tien was the Holy Land of the ancient Phu Nam Kingdom built about 2,000 years ago.
Vung Tau
Vung Tau was known by the French as “Cap de Saint Jacques” and is a famous seaside resort on the East
Sea just 125km southeast of Saigon. Vung Tau’s beaches are easily reached from Saigon and have been popular
with Saigonese since the French first arrived. Visitors to this city of 200,000 can bicycle around the town and
visit the many pagodas and the huge statue of Jesus blessing the East Sea as well as laze around or swim and
surf on the many beautiful beaches.
Vung Tau now serves as the headquarters for many big oil companies to support their offshore oil exploration
and production.
Just taking a one or two day trip to Vung Tau will give the opportunity to explore the many exciting spots of
this lovely lazy laid-back coastal city!
Da Lat
Da Lat city is the centre of Lam Dong Province, located on the highest part of the West Highlands of
central Vietnam (1500 m altitude). 70% of its area is covered by mountains and forests.
Da Lat was founded a century ago (1893), and has become an attractive site for foreign and domestic
visitors.
Climatologists call Da Lat "the city of eternal spring" thanks to its average temperature that never falls
under 100 C in winter and never exceeds 200 C in summer. Because of this favorable climate, Da Lat is like a
flower garden all year round.
From Ho Chi Minh City, driving along national highway 20 for 300 km will lead you to Da Lat. The road gradually
rises and when it reaches Da Lat at Prenn Falls, visitors can see before them a vast pine forest. Going to the
centre of Da Lat, tourists will discover a museum, plenty of water falls, beautiful lakes, flower valleys, and
herb hills.
Taking National route 11 from Phan Rang province to go up Dinh River and passing the historical site of the
ancient Cham Kingdom will take one to Ngoan Muc Pass, where one can admire imposing natural landscapes.
Da Lat is well known for its lakes, water falls, and pine forests. The lakes and other natural sites were
poetically named as they are closely related to memories.
The population is a much diversified community integrating three cultural regions of the North, Center and the
South of the country. Da Lat inhabitants are known to be very hospitable.
The beauty of Da Lat is highly praised. A wide array of flowers is grown in this area: exceptional orchids,
roses, rhododendrons, Xac Phao flowers, camellias, mimosas, cherry plums, white narcissus and many more.
The first hotel was built in 1907. It was a wooden house named hotel Du Lac (Lake Hotel). Today, travelers can
see Dalat's poetic architecture which is both splendid and discreet.
Dak Lak
Dak Lak Province is in Central Highland in 400 – 800m high above sea. It has border with Gia Lai in
the north and east-north, Lam Dong Province in the south, Cambodia and Dak Nong Province in the west, Phu Yen
and Khanh Hoa provinces in the east.
Dak Lak has a large natural area. 35% the province’s area is 1,000 – 1,200m high mountain area while the Buon
Ma Thuot Highland occupies 53.5%. The rich, flat red soil is a great advantage to develop long day - industrial
trees like coffee, rubber, tea, and pepper..., to raise cattle and to grow forest. Alluvia soil is rice paddy
and natural grass field. Dak Lak’s forest has abundant wood reserve and various rare animal species as
elephant, lion, tiger, beer... There are many beautiful rivers, high waterfalls and lakes.
Climate: The Dak Lak’s climate is temperate with the annual average temperature is 24ºC. There is a difference
of only 5ºC between the hottest month and the coldest one. The dry season lasts from November to April next
year. It is quite cold, windy, and dry. The rainy season lasts from May to October with high rainy amount.
There are beautiful and famous waterfalls such as: Thuy Tien, Trinh Nu, Krong Kmar, Bay Nhanh, among many big
lakes such as Lak, Dak Mil…Coming to there, tourists are able to get in the primitive forests of the Chu Yang
Sin, Yok Don National parks, visit Buon Don that is a well-known local of hunting and taming wild elephants, or
make tour to Dak Lak’s historical vestiges like Bao Dai Palace, Yang Prong Tower, Buon Ma Thuot Prison, Dak Tua
Cave…
There is not only imposing cultural heritage of native ethnic groups such as E De, M’Nong with remarkable epics
such as Dam San, Dam Bri, Xinh Nha, genie lunar New Year pole, but also valuable tangible cultural heritage:
dan da (stone musical instrument), gongs, T’rung, Klong Put...
Dak Lak has 44 brother’s ethnic groups living together. Although the ethnic groups do not form separate
inhabiting territories, they are concentrated in certain regions with individual identity and tradition,
created unique folk culture of particular characteristics of Central Highlands.
Traditional culture of Dak Lak is very plentiful and really attractive, especially historians, culturists,
phonetics. Besides, traditional professions such as sculpting statues in tombs, knitting brocade, and original
cultural rituals such as celebrating harvest festival, elephant race, and gong festival.
YokDon National Park
Whenever going to Dak Lak, tourists usually stop at Buon Don, a famous tourist attraction. As the largest
national park in Vietnam, it covers 115,000ha, not including 10,000ha of its belt zone. Its jungles bear the
characteristics of tropical forests in Southeast Asia. According to primary survey, YokDon boasts 464 species
of flora, most of which are Michelia (ngoc lan). In dry seasons, it is still cool, just like the climate in Da
Lat, and orchids are still in full bloom.
The most attractive thing for tourists to see in this park is its diverse kinds of forest. Among them include
broad-leaf forests, which are evergreen and humid on low mountain topography; sparse woods, and semi-deciduous
forest, to name a few. Broad-leaf tropical forests (khop forest) have many precious woods such as: cam lai
(Dalbergia Bariensis), trac (Delbergia Cochinchinensis), giang huong (Pterocarpus SPP), ca chit (Shorea
Obtusa), and so on. Its biodiversity makes "the pearl of YokDon” become a precious forest.
Nowhere in Vietnam preserves so many species of precious birds and animals as in YokDon National Park. This
natural park is home to 62 animal species, 196 bird species, 46 reptile species, 15 fresh water fish species
and thousands of insect species. Of the 56 precious animal species of Indochina, YokDon National Park preserves
38, of which 17 are listed in the World Red Book. This park is the only place in Vietnam where great numbers of
precious animals are still preserved: elephants, wild bulls, gayals, sambar deer, peacocks, water varans, and
so on.
Visiting YokDon National Park, tourists can ride on elephant's back to make a sightseeing tour in the forest,
or to wade across Serepok River. They can enjoy traditional specialties or drink can alcohol together with the
locals while listening to village patriarch's stories about legends of this land. Coming to YokDon National
Park, visitors will have a chance to discover fascinating things, which surely leave unforgettable impressions
on their mind.
Phan Thiet
Phan Thiet - about 198 km from Ho Chi Minh City – is the capital of Binh Thuan province. This coastal city is
well known not only for its beautiful landscapes but also for its valued cultural heritages. The landscape here
is majestic and romantic with long, sunny beaches, multi-faceted rock mountains and lush green forests. A
number of resorts set up along the beach give tourists a quiet place to enjoy the sun, the sea and other water
activities. Coming to this coastal city, visitors can also experience the beauty of the old towers restored as
vestiges of an ancient civilization. For these attractions - Phan Thiet has been recognized as an ideal place
for relaxation to all tourists.
Nha Trang
Located in a very large valley, Nha Trang City is encircled by an imposing and beautiful landscape with
mountains, beach and sea. Nha Trang is named the prism and is a splendid and flashy flower basket on the
Eastern Sea. Nha Trang is a place of many nice beaches with crystal white sands and has what are probably the
nicest municipal beaches in all of Viet Nam.
The turquoise water around Nha Trang is almost transparent, making for excellent fishing, snorkeling and
scuba
-diving. A range of offshore islands with tranquil beaches is a popular day trip. By chartering a boat to
islands and fishing villages, tourists can swim, snorkel and then enjoy fresh seafood aboard their boat. Nha
Trang is an ideal place for relaxing. There are now a number of famous hotels and resorts to choose from.
Besides visiting Nha Trang, tourists will have the chance to discover the magic Cham architecture - the
Ponaga
tower that was built between 7th and 12th century, and Long Son pagoda with a huge 14 meter- high white Buddha
seated on a Lotus blossom. This delightful coastal city is waiting for your trip!
Phong Nha Cave
Vietnam ‘ s Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park has been recognized as a World Natural Heritage site by UNESCO
–
now it’s the fifth UNESCO recognized site in Vietnam.
Phong Nha- Ke Bang national park, located to the north of the majestic Truong Son range in central Quang
Binh
province, is one of the world ‘ s two largest limestone regions. The over 200,000 km of parkland includes
beautiful limestone formations, grottoes and caves, and evocation names such as Lion, Fairy Caves, Royal Court
and Buddha. Besides the grotto and cave systems, Phong Nha-Ke Bang has the longest underground rivers, the
largest caverns and passageways, the widest and prettiest and banks, and the most astonishing rock formations
in the world.
The Central Quang Binh province has poured investment into upgrading the Phong Nha visitor site to turn it
into
the country’s major tourist destination.
Ha Tay - Chua Huong
Ha Tay, the province of holy Buddhist religion, is located just 60 km south of Ha Noi, and is considered
the
cradle of the Vietnamese Buddhist religion with hundreds of temples and pagodas scattered throughout the
province. One of the most famous is Chua Huong “Perfume pagoda” which was built in the early 10th century on
Huong Son “Perfume Mountain”. A boat trip to Chua Huong is a marvelous one and only takes one and a half-hours
each way. The scenery here is breathtaking. The beauty of the mountains, the rice paddy, the streams, and
people working, all so quiet and peacefully is an unforgettable experience. At the end of the boat trip,
tourists get to Huong Son. Chua Huong is not only a place for religious people but also for historical relics
and mountain-climbing lovers.
Tao Dao National Park
The Tam Dao National Park can be reached if you follow National Road No.2 to Vinh Yen Town (Vinh Phuc
Province)
where you should turn right into National Road No. 2B and go head about 13km.
Tam Dao is in a vast high mountainous region affected by tropical humid monsoons. The average temperature
during the year is 22.9oC. The mean humidity is about 84%. The vegetation cover is representative of five types
of tropical forest. The flora consists of 904 species classified into 478 geniuses and 213 families of high
plants, 64 of which are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book. The rich fauna includes 307 species, 56 of which are
registered in Vietnam’s Red Book (22 mammal species, 17 reptile species, 9 bird species, 7 amphibian species
and the remainder of insects).
Cuc Phuong National Park
The best time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park is during the dry season, from December to April, when the
hard
forest rain accounting for 90% of the annual rainfall is over. The park is conveniently located on the route to
several tourist attractions, including Bich Dong Pagoda, Hoa Lu, and Sam Son Beach. It was officially opened in
1960 as the first national park in Vietnam.
There are plenty of plants and mammals living in the park. There are an estimated 2,000 different species
of
flora and the 450 species fauna account for 38% of the national fauna. The vegetation cover is classified into
three types. The flora is quite a treasure with a wide variety of 1,944 species, 908 genuses and 229 families.
Especially it is enjoyable to touch the thousand-year-old cho xanh (parashrea stellata) and sau (Dracontomelum
Duperranum or Dancorra Edulis) trees, 50-70m high. This natural reserve is covered with 2,000 species of
plants. Especially orchid flowers are abundant with 50 species, some of which blossom and have aroma all year
around. The fauna is diversified represented by 71 animal species, 319 bird species, 33 reptile species, and 16
amphibian species. Rare species include the bear, horse, wild boar, tiger, leopard, fox, squirrel, monkey, etc.
A large area, for half-natural breeding, is reserved for raising wild animals such as the spotted deer, deer,
golden monkey, langur (vooc quan dui), flying squirrel, draco (than lan bay) and for research. The Park is also
home to hundreds of beautiful and strange birds and butterflies.
Thanks to the limestone terrain, Cuc Phuong National Park has a multitude of grottoes, including Thang
Khuyet,
Con Moong, Pho Ma, and Nguoi Xua, etc. Quen Voi, also part of the park, is where Nguyen Hue’s army was
stationed before it made its surprise attack on Thang Long and defeated Qin enemies in the spring of 1789.
Global environmental programs led by the UNDP, United Nations Development Program, and FFI, Flora and Fauna
International, researched the distinguished primitiveness of the tropical forest and the monsoon influence on
Southeast Asia in Cuc Phuong National Park.
Con Son Tourist Site
Con Son Mountain and Pagoda
Con Son Mountain looks like a resting lion. With a shrine on the top, its 238m northern ridge adjoins Ngu
Nhac
Mountain. Con Son borders U Bo Mountain and a valley with bamboo hedges to the west. Next to it is the 72-peak
Phuong Hoang (phoenix) mountain range with its vast pine forests, sparkling streams, rugged cliffs and ancient
towers and pagodas.
Con Son is also known as Tu Phuc or Hun. In the 10th century, Dinh Bo Linh, who would later become future
King
Dinh Tien Hoang, from Hoa Lu in present-day Ninh Binh Province rose up against 12 warlords competing for power.
Pursued by Dinh Bo Linh’s forces, Pham Phong At, one of the warlords who ruled the northeast region, fled to
Con Son Mountain to hide together with his entourage. Following the advice from his subordinate, Dinh Bo Linh
set the forests on fire to smoke out the warlord, who had to surrender and was captured.
Located at the foot of Con Son Mountain is Con Son Pagoda built at the end of the 13th century. The pagoda
was
one of the three centers of the Buddhist Truc Lam Trinity under the Tran Dynasty (1225-1400). The pagoda was
extended in 1329 and underwent several restorations during the 17th and 18th centuries and in the last few
decades. But the pagoda’s slipper-shaped tiles and stone pedestals from the Tran Dynasty are still
preserved.
Gieng Ngoc ( Pearl Well)
Gieng Ngoc, or Pearl Well, is located on the side of Ky Lan Mountain at the foot of a tower. Legend has it
that
in the full moon night of the seventh lunar month, Huyen Quang, one of the founders of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism,
sleeping in his room at Con Son Pagoda dreamt of seeing a shiny pearl on the side of the mountain. He wanted to
get closer to scrutinize the pearl, but the sound of the pagoda’s bell woke him up. However, he could not stop
thinking about his dream. So together with his assistants, Huyen Quang went to the mountain. There he found a
well containing fresh and cool water. When the monk returned to the pagoda, he held a ceremony to thank the
deities for the precious source of water. He also made the well deeper. Since then, the Pearl Well’s water has
been offered in rituals at the pagoda.
Am Bach Van and Ban Co Tien
Am Bach Van (white cloud temple) stands on the flat top of Con Son Mountain next to Ban Co Tien (fairy
chessboard) and several other large flagstones called “immortal chessboards” by local residents. Six hundred
rocky steps lead up to the chessboards.
According to legend, visitors from Kinh Bac (northern citadel) arrived in Con Son on autumn afternoon.
After
offering incense and enjoying the scenery, the visitors stayed at the pagoda. Early the next morning, they went
to the mountain to play chess and drink wine. On the way up the mountain they heard chatter and laughter. But
when they reached the temple on the mountain’s top no one was there, just a board with chess pieces showing an
interrupted game. The visitors thought that some heavenly deities must have ridden clouds to Con Son Mountain
to play chess and hurried back to heaven when somebody approached the top of the mountain.
Con Son Stream and Thach Ban
Aside from these magic places, Con Son boasts many pine tree forests, some having grown for several
centuries,
and several smaller forests of bamboo, myrtle and peony. When the spring comes, it looks as if Con Son wears a
flower dress.
Gently flowing all year round, Con Son Stream is also a well-known tourist destination. Locals call the two
large flat rocks on the stream’s banks Thach Ban (stone table). A legend says Nguyen Trai (1380-1442), a
politician and poet under the post-Le Dynasty (1427-1789), used to sit on these rocks, composing poems and
pondering national issues.
Nguyen Trai Temple
The temple was dedicated to Nguyen Trai, built at Con Son in December 2000 and inaugurated in 2002 in
celebration of the 600th birthday anniversary of Nguyen Trai.
The constructions of the temple cover an area of 10,000m². The main temple stands at the foot of To Son
Moutain, flanked by two mountains An Lac and Ngu Nhac. To its right is Con Son Stream. Inside the temple there
are also the right and left ceremonial halls, inside and outside gates, stele house, the urn for burning votive
offerings and Nghia Lake. The temple is a token of gratitude of the Vietnamese people to Nguyen Trai, the World
Cultural Celebrity.
Hoa Binh - Mai Chau
Hoa Binh is a mountainous province – 70 km northwest of Hanoi. It is a province of potential tourism with
many
fascinating places of interests, beautiful caves and assorted minorities including Tay, Thai, Muong, and H’
mong. The lives of these ethnic groups show different and diversified characteristics of a national rich
culture. Mai Chau village 60 km from Hoa Binh is both a marvelous and beautiful village admired by tourists
from above, viewing a fresh green valley with plants and fields and rows of tilted houses evenly scattered as
queuing to welcome tourists.
Visiting Mai Chau village, tourists are always warmly welcomed as esteemed and important guests by the
hospitable villagers. There, visitors may obtain a deep understanding of the simplicity and honesty of these
simple villagers as well as their way of life. Spending your night there, you will enjoy their folk shows with
songs and ethnic dances with Cong & Chieng harmonies.
Silent SaPa
The best time to witness the scenic beauty of SaPa is in April and May. Before that period, the weather
might
be cold and foggy, after that period is the rainy season. In April and May, SaPa is blooming with flowers and
green pastures. The clouds that settle in the valley in early mornings quickly disappear into thin air.
Located at 1,500m above sea level, SaPa lies on the side of Hoang Lien Son Mountains, 333 km northwest of
Hanoi. SaPa’s flora is diversified, ranging from flowers to tropical fruits. Among the most popular fruits
produced in SaPa are apples, pears, peaches, and plums.
SaPa has many natural sites such as Thac Bac, Thuy Cung Grotto, Gio Cave, Troi Gate, and Truc Forest. SaPa
is
also the starting point of many climbers and scientists who want to reach the top of Fansipan Mountain, the
highest mountain in Vietnam at 3,143m. Hoang Lien Son Mountains is also called the Alps of the North Sea area,
since Fansipan Mountain is not only the highest peak in Vietnam, but also in the Indochina Peninsula. The
pyramid-shaped mountain is covered with clouds all year round and temperatures often drop below zero,
especially at high elevations.
To reach SaPa, one can take a train to Lao Cai and take a bus to SaPa from there. On Sundays, Nung, Dao,
Tay,
Cao Lan, Paxi, and Xa Phong minorities in their colorful clothes ride down the mountain to take part in the
Sunday market at the foot of Fansipan Mountain.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long bay, a bay of wonder, is one of the most impressive landscapes in the world with thousands of
islets
and islands scattered throughout an area of 150 sq km, and located only 170km North East of Ha Noi. The local
people use their imagination to flow the spirit into those mindless, timeless limestone and rocky islands, and
make them lovelier, livelier and attractive with names such as: fighting cock islet, human head islet, golden
tortoise and Ha Long itself, means “descending dragon”. Ha Long also has many grottoes that are worthy of
visiting such as: Dau Go grotto, Thien Cung grotto and Tam Cung grotto. Amazing Ha Long is a must destination
for every tourist.
BEACH RESORTS
La Veranda Resort
La Veranda is a luxury boutique beach resort and spa, set on one of Vietnam’s most exciting
islands.
La Veranda is designed to reflect the ambience of a seaside colonial style mansion with all the comfort and
luxury one would expect from a great holiday experience.
This is a true piece of heaven on earth, set amidst a tropical garden along a beautiful white sandy beach.
Enjoy all the truly unique facilities of this luxury resort, and at the end of a relaxing and stress-free day,
enjoy the truly spectacular sunsets that are renowned in this part of the Gulf of Thailand .
Address: Duong Dong Beach, Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam
Telephone: 077 982 988, Fax: 077 982 998
Email: contact@laverandaresort.com
Website: www.laverandaresort.com
Saigon Phu Quoc Resort
Saigon Phu Quoc Resort commands a prime beachfront location on lagoon facing the open sea. The area's
white sands and crystal clear waters provide an excellent sanctuary for the abundant marine wildlife and wide-
range of recreational activities.
The island of Phu Quoc offers the only beach in Vietnam that has a view of the sun setting over the ocean.
Remarkably untouched by mass tourism, the only three-star beach resort Saigon Phu Quoc (with large green
foliages) is set directly on the beach with fully serviced bungalows overlooking the sea or the swimming pool.
Just 10 minutes from the airport, the resort is an ideal haven for relaxing, fishing, trekking snorkeling and
scuba diving.
With the perfect location, 3 star service and the best price, the luxury resort, a business center, an open air
restaurant, offers 16 villas with 95 rooms, 2 family houses, a 120-seat conference hall, a business center, a
150-seat restaurant, an open air restaurant, an open air swimming pool, two bars, a gift shop, a salon &
spa, a barber's shop, a sauna and massage parlor, a karaoke lounge, a tour desk, a credit cards & exchange
table, a home-banking, a car & pleasure boat rental, a private beach.
Address: 01 Tran Hung Dao Beachside Boulevard, Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phone: 84-77-846999 or 84-77-846510 Fax: 84-77-847163
Email: sgphuquocresort@hcm.vnn.vn or phuquocsales@hcm.vnn.vn
Website: www.sgphuquocresort.com.vn
Long Beach Resort Phuquoc
Long Beach's Ancient Village Resort & Spa is in its area 2.4 hectares and is located directly on
the beautiful beach of Phu Quoc Island.
Travelers will enjoy the beauty of the resort area which was re-created from the last century. Reminiscent of
an old traditional Vietnamese house, and furnished with native woods, stone and bricks, the Long Beach Phu Quoc
Resort reflects the real image of Vietnam with its warm hospitality.
The Long Beach Resort has 99 Vietnamese-style rooms made of brick, natural stone and wood. All rooms at Long
Beach spa and resort feature AC, IDD tel, satellite televisions with flat screen, In-room safety box, mini bar,
bathrooms fully made of wood with open space, suitable to the surrounding nature, luxurious bathrobes and
slippers, work desk with ADSL access, almost rooms has its own balcony with sea-view or garden-view.
Address: Duong To Village, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam.
Anoasis Resort
This former residence of the last Emperor of Vietnam, perched high on the hillside, has been developed
on 13 hectares of tropical trees and unspoiled vegetation and with an unique panorama on the mountains and the
ocean.
For more than just hotel rooms, the resort is together with its long private beach and its impressive swimming
pool, an unrivalled tropical resort and a wonderful escape from the stresses of everyday living.
The quality of the accommodation is more than matched by the quality of the food. Our Indian chef, with his
Vietnamese team, has designed a range of menus with European and Asian traditions, at very good value.
Address: DOMAIN KY VAN LONG HAI, BARIA - VUNG TAU, VIETNAM
Tel: (84-64) 868 227 - 868 228
Fax: (84-64)868 229)
Email: anoasisresort@hcm.vnn.vn
Website: www.anoasisresort.com.vn
Long Hai Beach Resort
Address: Road 44, Long Hai, Long Dien, Baria Vungtau
Tel: 84(064).661355 - Fax: 84(064).661356
Email: info@longhai-resort.com
Web: www.longhai-resort.com
Ho Tram - OSAKA Resort
From a virgin land and a deserted area, with a professional design and under the great care of a team
of artists and skillful workers, a wonderful architectural work was achieved.
Located on the very romantic coastal road of Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province, the Resort of 50,000 m2 is surrounded
with windy pine forests over looking the sea. The subtle combination of an elegant architecture and the
devotion in the service, the quiet environment and the charming view, it all makes Ho Tram Osaka an ideal
remote asylum in the tropical area, where people would be relaxing in the white sand beach, listening to the
plash of waves and soon letting behind every sorrow and worry.
The Ho Tram - Osaka resort comprised of 10 bungalows and 1 villa with 38 rooms completely furnished, of
which 12 rooms have seaview, and 22 rooms have gardenviews, each room has it own private terrace with
particular romantic view.
Address: PhuocThuan Village, XuyenMoc Dist., BaRia-VungTau Province, VN
Tel: (84 064)781 525 Fax: (84 064)781 433
Email: info@hotramresort.com
Website: www.hotramresort.com
Victoria Phan Thiet Beach Resort & SPA
Victoria Phan Thiet Beach Resort & Spa located on a private beach studded with coconut trees, was
built in the traditional style of Vietnamese country houses, our 60 romantic bungalows are set in beautiful
exotic gardens overlooking the sea.
With its beautifully landscaped gardens and its location right on the beach, the Victoria Phan Thiet Beach
Resort & Spa and its services offered have been carefully planned to allow guests to enjoy a unique and
relaxing natural experience in a heavenly setting.
Address: Km 9, Phu Hai, Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan, Vietnam
Tel : (84 62) 813 000 - Fax : (84 62) 813 007
E-mail: resa.phanthiet@victoriahotels-asia.com
Website: www.victoriahotels-asia.com
Blue Ocean Resort
Mui Ne Beach, located close to Phan Thiet City, is fast becoming a recognized and desirable tourist
destination for the world.
Blue Ocean Resort, less than 3 hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City offers relaxation and services with an
attention to detail.
Situated on approximately 18,000 M2 of prime beach front the resort consists of individual rooms
configured in bungalows and arranged to maximize views of the beach, gardens and swimming pool.
All rooms are thoughtfully appointed and provided with air-conditioning, mini bars, IDD and satellite TV.
Landscaped garden areas are grassed and shaded by mature coconut trees.
The buildings are tastefully designed to blend in with the local surrounds. Sturdily built to international
standards and decoratively thatched with palm fond or local tiles.
The large swimming pool and swim-up Pool Bar act as the heart of social and recreational activities in the
resort. A children's play ground is located close by.
Paradise is made easy at Blue Ocean Resort. Experience International standards of hospitality in a traditional
Vietnamese fishing village setting.
Phan Thiet, famous for its amazing seafood. The Moonlight Restaurant is the perfect setting in which to enjoy
the fruits of the South China Seas.
Address: 54 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ham Tien Phan Thiet City, Vietnam
Tel: (84-62) 847 322 / 847 444
Fax: (84-62) 847 351
Email: blueocean@hcm.vnn.vn
Website: www.blueoceanresort.com
Phu Hai Resort
Located on the idyllic Mui Ne Beach in a calm and quiet residential area, just at a three-hour drive
from HoChiMinh City, PHU HAI RESORT is now a top ideal tourist vacation destination. It is a romantic spot
where guests can enjoy moonlit evenings and sunny days that offer a true break from the pressure of the working
world. Its 3ha beautiful landscaped tropical gardens lead to a private beach on a strech of pristine golden
sands, creating a “back to nature” atmosphere.
A spacious well-equipped hall is available for conferences and meetings can accommodate up to 100
attendants.
Traditional materials were used wherever practicable to allow guests at PHU HAI RESORT to enjoy some aspects of
Vietnam culture enriched with modern French architecture.
Address: Km8, Phu Hai, Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan, Vietnam
Tel: (84)(62)-812799 | Fax: (84)(62)-812797
Email: info@phuhairesort.com
Website: www.phuhairesort.com
Pandanus Resort
Pandanus Resort is situated in Mui Ne, an area of Phan Thiet, only one step away from the famous sand
dunes and directly at the beach of the East China Sea. The other peaceful and natural surroundings of untouched
white beaches, coconut trees and red surreal hills make this one of Vietnam’s best places to stay. Don’t forget
Mui Ne’s port, with countless, colorful fishing boats. Besides, another inevitable attraction is the Takou
Mountain containing the largest Buddha in Vietnam (Tuong Phat Nam) and the hundreds of fascinating Dragon
Fruits plantations.
This province, Binh Thuan, from which Phan Thiet is the capital, is regarded to be the driest area in all of
Vietnam with a mean annual temperature of 27oC
Address: Km5, Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, Vietnam.
Tel: (84-62) 849 849 Fax: (84-62) 849 850
Email: pandanus@pandanusresort.com
Website: www.pandanusresort.com
Sai Gon - Mui Ne Resort
SaiGon Mui Ne Resort is placed on the developing tourism heart of Binh Thuan Province, 12.2km east of
Phan Thiet City, on town road 706 (about 20 minutes by land ), 210 kms north of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a
poetic resort because of hamonious combination between 235 long sandy beach with greenglass and Bungalows are
intermigled among row of coconut. Saigon Muine Resort is selleted the 1st award about architecture of 2000 by
Association of Vietnam Architects.
87-room resort with 8 kinds is located on a private and beautiful beach which is always clean and full of
sunny. The restaurant specializes in Western, Asian and seafood dishes. Conference, Swimmingpool with Jaccuzi,
Tennis court, Petanque court, Bar, Billiard, Massage, Karaoke, Internet, DHL, EMS…, Car, and Kitesurf/
Windsurf.
Address: Km12.3, Ham Tien, Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, Vietnam
Tel: (84-62) 847 303/324/325/326
Fax: (84-62) 847 307
Website: www.saigonmuineresort.com
Bamboo Village Beach Resort & Spa
The new Bamboo Village Beach Resort and Spa is paradise hidden away in Mui Ne – one of Vietnam’s most
beautiful coastal areas only 3 hours from HCMC. The Resort’s latest improvements in January 2005 including
brand-new rooms, pool and bar of the Contemporary Village Retreat, and a range of holistic healing treatments
for the mind, body and spirit at the new Water Lily Spa.
Palmira resort is located along the best beach of Mui Ne bay. Enter the gate, passing through the
reception, to natural Coco garden, you will reach the wide and beautiful white sand beach full of sunshine.
Being around in the private beach only seconds, you will definitely be amazed - that’s “Little Paradise”.
Spending some days in 2 ha Palmira resort, you will have a great time to swim and play water sports in clean
blue Pacific Ocean or in fantastic swimming pool or play tennis or play some billiards. Or you just lay down by
the sea to refill your energy, keep your health stronger and fully relax with fresh ocean wind.
Address: KM 11, Ham Tien, Village 3 Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan Vietnam
Tel: (84) 62 847 004
Fax: (84) 62 847 006
Email: cocogarden@palmiraresort.com
Website: www.palmiraresort.com
Swiss Village Resort
This lovely “Swiss Village Resort seaside & spa (SVR)” is a 100 % private investment of a
Vietnamese expatriate & eng.-architect living in Switzerland since 1966. It’s elegantly surrounded by a
coconut palm forest on a superficies of land 16'000 m2 next to the Ocean with private white sand beaches.
The basic concept adopted of SVR’s Architecture is a fine mixture of different ancient Asian Cultures
(Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese). It was subtly realized with the curved roofs using traditional ceramic tiles
and the circular columns. And in addition, the interior comfort of the living is modern of Swiss Standard.
Nowadays, the SVR becomes the Centre of a lively neighbourhood, recently created during the last 3 years, with
many other International Hotels - Resorts and numerous different activities along the main road. The Bay of Mui
Ne also offers good wind conditions for the lovers of water sports (wind-surfing, kite-surfing, sailing boat,
etc.).
Within only 12 km far from SVR, you can also enjoy your golf passion in an international 18 hole Golf Yard in
Phan Thiet City. And a second fabulous one is under construction on a sand dune with sea view.
The Infrastructure of the SVR seaside & spa comprises of 4 sea-front family villas, 16 villa rooms (DBL),
10 Bungalows, 30 Deluxe rooms and 12 Superior rooms, together with spacious bars-restaurants face to the
Ocean.
Many different facilities and services at your disposal are: Money Exchange Bank, Post Office, Business Centre,
Conference Room, VIP Spa - Fitness, Beauty Salon with Swiss products, Tennis court, Swimming and Whirl Pool,
VIP Karaoke, Souvenirs Shop, Spectacles – Open air Dancing, Children Nursery Space, Library, Laundry, Pick-up
Transportation, Tours Organization, etc...
Address: Km12, Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam
Tel : (+84) 62-847 399
Fax : (+84) 62-847 491
Email: SVR.Direction@hcm.vnn.vn
Website: www.svr-vn.com
Sea Horse Resort
Along 200 meters of pristine white sand lies the warm and welcoming Seahorse Resort. Its traditional
Vietnamese atmosphere offers a peaceful retreat giving visitors the chance to relax and rejuvenate within an
exceptional landscape of palm trees and tropical gardens.
In the few years since the Resort opened, the Seahorse Resort has quickly established itself as one of Mui Ne’s
leading Resorts, winning the award of “Outstanding Resort Style in Phan Thiet” from the prestigious The Guide
magazine.
Picturesque beach hugs the shores that stretch up the coastline, offering a place of serenity, beauty, healing
and harmony with a perfectly enhanced spectacular view and breathtaking sunsets. The Seahorse Resort offers a
truly unique beach experience.
With 40 luxurious and private Bungalows and 50 Superior Rooms and Suites, the Seahorse Resort in Mui Ne, Phan
Thiet, is an enchanting destination: privately owned, and designed to offer every conceivable luxury to guests
who require a tranquil and personal paradise.
Address: Km 11, Ham Tien Ward, Phan Thiet, Viet Nam
Tel: (84-62) 847 507 Fax: (84-62) 847 774
E-mail: info@seahorseresortvn.com
Website: www.seahorseresortvn.com
Hoang Ngoc Resort
Hoang Ngoc resort is surrounded by many tourists destinations of Phan Thiet City, located 200k
from Ho Chi Minh City and 250km from Nha Trang, is known for its long sandy beach all in all a beautiful beach
city
A unique sophisticated architecture made by primitive materials, an open space with Vietnamese spirit, vigorous
but elegant creates a feeling of relaxion.
Over 100 seaview rooms and 4 villas
Only Hoang Ngoc Resort hides under the coconut forest nearly 100 years of age. Nowaday, more and more special
fruits of 3 regions of Vietnam are grown, green plants attract birds to go nesting
Address: Km 62, Phan Thiet - Mui Ne, Binh Thuan
Tel: (84-62) 847858 - Fax: (84-62) 847549
Email: info@hoangngoc-resort.com
Website: www.hoangngoc-resort.com
Ana Mandara Resort - Nha Trang
Ana Mandara means "beautiful home for the guests". Reminiscent of an old Vietnamese village, and
furnished with native woods and rattan, the Resort reflects the real image of Vietnam, with its warm
hospitality, rich culture and unique tastes. From the moment you step foot in this your 'home away from home' a
truly unforgettable sense of warmth can be felt from the welcome alone. This warmhearted Ana Mandara
hospitality combined with the stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings will ensure an unforgettable
experience from which a lifetime of fond memories can be taken with you.
Located directly on the beach off the most famous thoroughfare, Tran Phu Boulevard, the resort rests
comfortably on 26,000 m2 of private tropical gardens overlooking the sea. The delicate blend of graceful
architecture and gracious service, peaceful atmosphere and captivating scenery, Ana Mandara offers a unique
experience in simplicity, serenity and refinement. Relaxing on the white sandy beach, listening to the lapping
of the waves will soon make any worries disappear.
To some it is a chance to witness raw beauty, to others a place of tranquility for pure relaxation, where it is
possible to let life's problems pass them by. For all it is an escape to paradise. Such an exotic destination
can only be seen by some in their dreams.
Address: Beachside Tran Phu Blvd, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Tel: +84 58 522 222, Fax: +84 58 525 828
E-mail: reservations-anamandara@evasonresorts.com
Website : www.six-senses.com/evason-anamandara
Sofitel - Vinpearl Resort
The resort situated on Hon Tre island, famous for its crystal white beaches and surrounding mountain
valleys, sloping like birds’ wings. Famed for its gorgeous beaches & turquoise waters, the area around Nha
Trang is a popular destination for divers from all over the world.
The biggest and newest entrant to the Vietnam beach scene is the 500-rooms VinPearl resort - opened on 25
Dec 2003. It is a five storey fronting the sea on a private bay below the hills. At 57,000sq.m, it is
Viet Nam’s largest tourism resort. The VinPearl resort is a 10-minute boat or hovercraft-ride from the jetty
port.
Evason Hideaway identifies the boutique category of Evason. Attention to detail and focus on the reality of
the destination is the driving force, together with a focused commitment to the environment. Accommodations
provide generous personal space and present an uncompromised standard of luxury. Evason Hideaways offer
elegantly designed modern architecture positioned with an image supporting the Evason Hideaway theme -
Innovative Style.
Accessible only by boat, the site of the Evason Hideaway on dramatic Ninh Van Bay is quite unique, taking
full advantage of the setting. Impressive rock formations, the coral reef, white sand beach, a playful stream
and the towering mountains behind, all add to the sense of being luxuriously at one with nature.
Evason Hideaway at Ana Mandara also presents the reality of the destination, with an architectural style
reflecting the traditions of Vietnam. This is very evident in the reception champa and dining pavilion, which
are classic Vietnam structures transported across the water and assembled at the site.
Address: Ninh Van bay, Ninh Hoa, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam
Two hours North of Nha Trang, the Whale Island Resort. Transparent water, coral and coconut trees
underline the tropical exoticism. We discovered the place by cruising in the area. To get settled was not s
easy, but the paradise deserves itself and it's now our home.
A real island getaway 60km north of Nha Trang, Whale Island Resort has 19 tastefully furnished, rustic
bungalows and a hilltop dormitory facing onto a deserted sandy beach. Facilities include a restaurant,
snorkeling, scuba diving and windsurfing.
Sure we need boat in our isolated situation. We have renewed traditional fishing boats for your transfer from
the mainland, or to reach dive sites. Our Speedboats are available for your transportation, to or from the
island at any time of the day.
For your leisure, catamarans, wind surf and canoe are available.
Address : 02 Melinh Street, Nhatrang, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Telephone : (84-58) 513871
Fax : (84-58) 513873
Email: info@whaleislandresort.com
Website: www.whaleislandresort.com
Sunrise Beach Resort
Combining the mystical culture, and its famous hospitality with modern resort comfort, Sunrise Beach
Resort is a perfect place to luxuriously explore and experience the way of life in the pristine settings of Nha
Trang.
Sunrise Beach Resort Nha Trang is located on the tree lined Esplanade of one of the most sort-after pristine
beaches in Vietnam!, overlooking Nha Trang Bay. A stone's throw from the beach, the resort is also idyllically
located in the heart of the City and sightseeing locations !
Just a 45 minutes drive from the Cam Ranh Airport, Sunrise Beach Resort is the latest spectacular 5 star
boutique resort and spa that defines the epitome of luxury, elegance & pure pleasure, ideal for both
business & leisure travelers.
Doc Let - 49 km away from Nha Trang city on the National Road to the North, the natural potentials of
Doc Let is humanly being touched and exploited. The beach resort actually becomes an ideal and tranquil beach
attraction. A Vietnamese Authentic Resort in the Premier Beach.
Address: Ninh Hai - Ninh Hoa - Khanh Hoa - Viet Nam
Tel: 84.58.849152 - 849067
Fax: 84.58.849506
Email: docletresort@dng.vnn.vn
Life Resort Quy Nhon
Life Resort Quy Nhon is a 16 km scenic drive from the town set on an exceptionally beautiful private
sandy beach with stunning views over an expansive bay and two uninhabited islands, which belong to the resort.
The landscape around Quy Nhon is dramatic, with cliff-hugging coastal roads, mountains and beaches.
The tranquility, splendid views, Cham-inspired architecture and surroundings are so far unmatched in
Vietnam.
Address: Ghenh Rang, Bai Dai Beach, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam
Tel: +84 (56) 840-132
Fax: +84 (56) 840-138
Email: quynhon@life-resorts.com
Website: www.life-resorts.com
Furama Resort Danang
Designed by award-winning Australian architects, Denton Corker & Marshall, with interior design by
Hirsch Bedner & Associates, Hong Kong, the Furama Resort enjoys a stunning beachfront location on one of
Vietnam’s finest beaches, fringed by natural pines and coconut palms. The 198 guest rooms and suites occupy two
four-storey wings overlooking the ocean on one side and a freshwater swimming lagoon and manicured tropical
gardens on the others.
The main lobby, function rooms, restaurants, bars and service areas occupy several two and three-storey
pavilions surrounding a spacious courtyard. The restaurants and lounges are open and airy with polished timber
or natural stone floors that offset the cool natural fabrics and cane furnishings. Vietnamese artifacts and
furniture enhance the colonial setting to create the resort’s distinctive Asian character.
Address: 68 Ho Xuan Huong Street "China Beach", Danang, Vietnam
Telephone: (84-511) 847 333 / 888
Fax: (84-511) 847 666 / 220
Email: furamadn@hn.vnn.vn
Sandy Beach Resort Danang
255 Huyen Tran Cong Chua St, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang, Vietnam
Hoi An Beach Resort
Address: 01 Cua Dai, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Viet Nam
Tel : (84.510) 927 011
Fax : (84.510) 927 019
Email : hoianbeachresort@dng.vnn.vn
Website : www.hoiantourist.com
Hoi An Beach Resort is a four-star resort situated between the romantic De Vong river and famous Cua Dai Beach.
It consists of luxurious old Vietnamese-style houses and villa rooms. It is recognised by travellers worldwide
as "an oasis of peace where the river meets the ocean". It is just four kilometres from the historic town of
Hoi An. 35 km (a 45 minute drive) from Danang International Airport and railway station.
In its day the principal trading port for the whole of central Vietnam, Hoi An has long been proud of its
reputation for gracious hospitality. Weare dedicated to continuing this tradition today in our new and
luxurious beach resort. There is so much to see in the area - historic Hoi An town, the My Son temple complex,
the Cham Museum in Danang and, just over the pass, the former royal capital of Hue - that you could easily stay
an extra day.
Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa
Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa is situated 5 km from the little town of Hoi An, along a
stretch of white sand beach, one side of the resort facing the river delta and the other side, the sea.
Referring to the history and mix of cultures of Hoi An, the Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa is built
like a small fisherman's village, with small streets and water ponds, small houses with clay-tiled roofs and
round Chinese cloth lanterns.
A special care of the individual senses has been taken to provide each guest a warm and restful environment
Address: Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Tel : (84 510) 927 040
Fax : (84 510) 927 041
E-mail: resa.hoian@victoriahotels-asia.com
Website: www.victoriahotels-asia.com
Swiss-Belhotel Golden Sand Resort Hoi An
Swiss-Belhotel Golden Sand Resort is located right on Cua Dai Beach, just 10 minutes from the World Heritage
site of Hoi An town. Ageless elegance and comforts with an exquisite contemporary twist. 212 roomed five
star beach resort, with international standard of services and facilities, offering different types of
accommodation including superior rooms, deluxe rooms and beach front suites. The resort features one of
the largest outdoor swimming pools in Vietnam and offers great water and land sport facilities.
Address: Thanh Nien Road - Cua Dai Beach - Hoi An Ancient Town - Quang Nam Province - Viet Nam
Tel: (84 510) 927 560
Fax: (84 510) 927 565
E-mail:
reservation@swiss-belhotelgoldensandresort.com
info@swiss-belhotelgoldensandresort.com
Website: www.swiss-belhotel.com/hoian
Life Resort Hoi An
Life Resort Hoi An is a 4-star town resort in the French colonial quarter of the UNESCO world heritage town Hoi
An. The tranquil property with 1.2 ha landscaped garden is situated right on the riverbank, 5 minutes walking
distance from the bustling market. 94 rooms all offer a bedroom, living area and a private porch. 18 Rooms have
a panorama river view.
There is also a multifunction room as well as a wellness area with a Traditional Chinese Medicine pavilion as
well as a reflexology massage pavilion. The harmony of our services, the surroundings, culture, cuisine and
body and mind treatments will naturally bring ALL your senses to life
All rooms are decorated with selected, hand-made interiors. The Life comfort includes individually controlled
air-condition, a private bathroom, satellite television, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, IDD
telephone, ceiling fan, Dataport with high speed internet access and more.
Address: 1 Pham Hong Thai Street. Hoi An Town, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam
Tel: +84 (510) 914-555
Fax: +84 (510) 914-515
Email: hoian@life-resorts.com
Website: www.life-resorts.com
Dong An Beach Resort
Dong An Beach Hotel & Resort is situated on Cua Dai Beach, adjacent to the De Vong River, just 4 kilometres
from Hoi An Ancient Town. The hotel is situated only 30 metres from the beach.
Address: Cua Dai Beach, Cam An, Hoi An, Vietnam.
Tel: +84 (510) 927-888
Fax: +84 (510) 927-777
Lang Co Beach Resort Hue
Lang Co Beach is built in Oriental architecture of Hue with styled garden houses, pagoda temple and pavilion.
The resort has sea-facing accommodations and is a haven for tranquillity with its rich geographical
environment. Nature meets the relaxed lifestyle at the Lang Co Beach Resort.
Lang Co is famous for its grand natural landscapes, being embraced with row on row of the Truong Son mountain
range, the tranquil blue sea and velvet like white sandy beach with sunshine. The village of storks (lang co)
is naturally set amidst the great mountains, the splashing sea and the blurring mystical lagoon where produce
abundant supplies of fresh.
The Lang Co Beach Resort is located in route between Hue (70km) and Da Nang (30km), passed by National Railway
and National Route No 1A. This is a forget-me-not stopover for visitors while being on the way to Hue - the Old
Charming Royal Citadel - a cultural and tourist center famous for its architectural complex inscribed as the
World Culture Heritage by The UNESCO to Quang Nam Province - where locating the ancient old quarter seaport of
Hoi An and the Holy Land of My Son which are another two world culture heritages in this central part of
Vietnam.
Ha Long, one of the World Heritages, comprises thousands of big and small islands. Each one has its own
characteristic with various caves: Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Trinh Nu Cave. Tuan Chau Island is the only
soil island of all. It is not only a place having beautiful natural surroundings: pine trees, lakes, beautiful
beach…but also where President Ho Chi Minh chose to be the relax place of other State officials' and his when
they came here in 1959.
On the total area of 400 ha, Tuan Chau has the population of 1500. As planned, the total area of Tuan Chau will
be widen to 675 ha. It enjoys the advantage of having both road and river transportations. It is about 18 km
away from National Highway No.1. This route is an important blood vessel of the robust Hanoi – Hai Phong –
Quang Ninh economic triangle. It takes about 3 hours from Mong Cai ( 2 hours by boat) and 1 hour from Hai
Phong.
Tuan Chau island’s name is the combination between ‘linh tuan’ (the patrolman) and ‘tri chau’ (district chief)
because in the feudal time, the royal army set up a guard station here to patrol and defend the borderland.
Prior to 1999, the island's residents suffered from a very modest living standard.There was no power
network and no clean water. Roads were only trails and there was no mechanical means of transportation. Tuan
Chau was a very poor town where fishing with very rudimentary tools is the only means of living.
From a primitive island, Tuan Chau has become well- known to both international and domestic tourists as an
attractive destination with:
a dolphin&seal club
a circus
a crocodile club
one (artificial) beach with 4 km long
a Vietnamese culinary area
a hotel and resort area of 5-star standard (200 rooms)
a water recreation park with activities such as motor racing, canoeing, parachuting, water skiing, etc.
Ha Long Bay sight- seeing services by canoe, boat, helicopter.
a high tech water fountain with music playing, laser lighting and film projecting on water screens.
Address: Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long City - Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
Tel: (84-33) 842 999 Fax: (84-33) 842 333
Email: info@tuanchauresrort.com.vn
Website: www.tuanchauresort.com.vn
Hanoi Office
Unit 301, Hanoi Tung Shing Square, 2 Ngo Quyen Str., Hanoi, Vietnam
The time has finally come for our famous annual Crayfish Party! The event will take place on September 19th at the new Au Lac Do Brazil Restaurant in Phu My Hung.
Nordcham is co-hosting with AusCham, EuroCham,
CanCham, AmCham, InCham, HKBAV, BBGV, NZCCV the Combined Chamber Drinks that will be on Thursday 6th August from 6pm-9pm at The Cage.
The global economic recession is affecting businesses in Vietnam in an unprecedented manner. However, businesses that seekassistance and plan ahead in the current environment can not only survive, but can look to prosper.
Under Vietnam's WTO commitments, foreign entities are now allowed to engage in
retails and distribution business in Vietnam as of January 1, 2009. This has created
considerable interest for exploration and exploitation in its market opportunities.
The changes in Vietnam Personal Income Tax law (PIT) in Vietnam has had a long drafting timeframe and attracted so much public attention. The Vietnamese National Assembly is meeting in the end of May and the PIT law implementation is becoming one of the hot issues...
[ 19 - 9 - 2009 ] -
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