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Hanoi’s Ancient Quarter Comes Alive for Halloween

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Halloween, celebrated on October 31st annually, is more than just a fun festival. It carries a significant message: teaching children to face and overcome their fears of ghosts and darkness, and instead, choose to embrace life’s joys. This Western festival has captivated the hearts of many in Vietnam, especially the youth, for the past two decades. It has become an eagerly anticipated event, providing an exciting opportunity for friends to gather and create memorable experiences. As the spooky season approaches, Hang Ma Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter transforms into a bustling hub of activity. Vendors work diligently to meet the high demand for Halloween toys, decorations, and costumes, ensuring a thrilling celebration for all. According to a local merchant, this year’s offerings are more diverse, creative, and aesthetically pleasing than ever. From plastic pumpkins and lanterns to skeleton figures and fashionable accessories, there is something for everyone to enjoy and embrace the
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Hanoi: Asia’s Culinary Capital for 2024

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Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, has cemented its place as a culinary powerhouse, bagging the prestigious title of Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City at the 2023 World Culinary Awards. The World Culinary Awards, launched in 1994, is an esteemed platform that recognizes exceptional culinary destinations and tourism brands globally. Adding to the city’s culinary acclaim, renowned restaurants and hotels in Hanoi, including Hibana by Koki Restaurant and Capella Hanoi Hotel, were also acknowledged for their outstanding culinary offerings. The iconic ‘bun cha’ dish – a Hanoi specialty. Photo : Michelin Guide Hanoi’s culinary prowess was further emphasized when it was ranked among the top 15 culinary destinations worldwide by Tripadvisor’s readers in July. In 2023, Travel and Leisure magazine bestowed upon Vietnam the title of Best Culinary Destination in Asia’s Bucket List Places. The magazine highlighted Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City as must-visit destinations
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The Historic Flag-Raising Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square: A Vinyl Tribute

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The ‘Melodies of Hanoi’ vinyl record is a timeless collection of classic songs that capture the essence of Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Featured on this record are songs about the city’s air defense alert, the nostalgic tinkling of the streetcar, and the iconic flag-raising ceremony at 6 a.m. in Ba Dinh Square, a long-standing tradition that has become synonymous with the identity of Hanoians across generations. For the first time, sound engineers recorded the sacred flag-raising ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, and this historic event was immortalized on the ‘Melodies of Hanoi’ record with vividness and authenticity. This special release by Hanoi Radio and Television commemorates the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the capital and the broadcaster. It is a tribute to the rich history and cultural heritage of Hanoi, presented through a unique blend of music and familiar sounds. The vinyl record is a compilation of Hanoi’s most famous songs and the city’s familiar sounds. Pho
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The Ultimate Guide to Ho Chi Minh City’s Thao Dien: A Global Haven for the Coolest Expats

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Thao Dien, an up-and-coming neighborhood in Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City, has recently been recognized by *Time Out* as one of the world’s trendiest areas. This vibrant district, situated along the picturesque Saigon River, offers a walkable, tree-lined escape just 7 kilometers from the bustling city center. What sets Thao Dien apart is its thriving local culture, shaped by young Vietnamese talent. The neighborhood is a foodie’s paradise, boasting creative bakeries like Bakes, with its Vietnamese-French influences, and Tre Dining, a Michelin-recognized restaurant that showcases traditional Vietnamese flavors in an open-terrace setting. But Thao Dien offers more than just culinary delights. Visitors can start their day with a classic salted foam Vietnamese coffee at Hue Cafe Roastery, followed by a stroll along Xuan Thuy Street to explore local ceramics and the world-renowned Vietnamese chocolatier, Maison Marou. The ward also features some of the city’s best shopping, with a variet
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“The Lure of Hang Streets”: A Captivating Trail for Travellers in Hanoi

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“Hanoi’s Ancient Quarter Comes Alive: An Immersive Cultural Experience” Immerse yourself in Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage with the “Stories of Hang Streets” live performance tour. This 30-minute immersive experience, held at the Ma May Ancient House in the heart of the Old Quarter, transports visitors back in time to discover the city’s fascinating past. Bringing History to Life A scene from ‘Story of Hanoi Streets’ – depicting a happy family in the Old Quarter. “And now, ladies and gentlemen, we invite you to watch the captivating ‘Story of Hang Streets’!” “My family has dedicated themselves to the art of traditional medicine for four generations. My father, a respected elder in his late 70s, is renowned across the city for his expertise in pulse reading and herbal remedies.” “Allow me to introduce my eldest son, the family’s first grandson. Unfortunately, he doesn’t share our passion for the traditional trade…” Step into the enchanting Ma May Ancient House on
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The Vietnam-South Korea Cultural Day Festival: A Celebration of Unity and Diversity in Can Tho City

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Can Tho City hosted a vibrant two-day cultural exchange event at Luu Huu Phuoc Park in Ninh Kieu District, celebrating the unique bond between Vietnam and South Korea. The festival, an annual occurrence since its inception in 2022, witnessed an enthusiastic turnout with 50 stalls showcasing the very best of both nations’ culture, tourism, cuisine, education, and trade opportunities. Nguyen Thuc Hien, deputy chairman of the Can Tho administration, highlighted the event’s popularity among businesses and people, especially the youth, during the opening ceremony. Apart from the colorful stalls, the festival featured a dynamic K-Dance Klech performance, a summary of the K-pop Academy program, a culinary journey through traditional Vietnamese and Korean dishes, and engaging folk games from both countries. A highlight of the event was the Vietnam-South Korea art exchange that spanned two enchanting evenings, bringing together artists from both countries. This cross-cultural dialogue fostere
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“Duyen Thai Craft Village Art Tour: Unveiling Hanoi’s Creative Heart”

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In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Capital’s Liberation, the Hanoi Tourism Department, in collaboration with the Thuong Tin District People’s Committee, has introduced a new tourism program, “Duyen Thai Craft Village Art.” Exploring Hanoi’s Outskirts: A New Touristic Adventure A glimpse into the traditional lacquerware crafted by the talented artisans of Ha Thai craft hamlet, located in Duyen Thai Commune, Thuong Tin District, Hanoi. Photo: Lang nghe son mai Ha Thai The “Duyen Thai Craft Village Art” tourism program ventures beyond the typical tourist trails, showcasing the unique cultural and spiritual essence of Vietnam. Lacquerware, an art form deeply rooted in the country’s heritage, takes center stage, with each piece meticulously crafted to reflect the creativity and skill of its makers. At the launch event, Mr. Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Tourism Department, highlighted the rich artisanal landscape of Hanoi, boasting 1,350 trade a
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