In the heart of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands a centuries-old merchant house that speaks not with words, but with wisdom: Tan Ky House. Built in the 18th century and still home to the eighth generation of the same family, this living heritage site is more than a museum — it’s a quiet teacher.

Tan Ky House in Hoi An

Among its most intriguing treasures is not gold, nor silk, but a humble clay cup — one that holds a secret older than time. Known as the Greedy Cup, it is said to carry the teachings of one of history’s greatest minds: Confucius.

How the Cup Teaches Without Speaking

The cup looks ordinary. But it has a hidden rule: it can hold liquid up to 80% of its capacity. Fill it beyond that, and the entire contents drain instantly through a hole in the bottom.

No magic. No trick. Just a clever hydraulic siphon — designed not to impress, but to instruct.

The message is clear and timeless:

“Those who take too much, end up with nothing.”

This is not just about drinking. It’s a metaphor for greed, ambition, and the human tendency to overreach — even when we already have enough.

The Legend of Confucius and the Warning Cup

Greedy Cup Hoi An

According to tradition, Confucius once visited an ancient temple where he encountered a peculiar vessel called You Zhi — the “Warning Cup”. When empty, it tilted. When filled correctly, it stood straight. But when overfilled, it toppled over, spilling everything.

The priests explained: this cup teaches that pride leads to downfall, and excess leads to loss.

Confucius was deeply moved. He said:

“What a wise object! It shows that no man should ever fill himself beyond measure.”

In Tan Ky House, this ancient parable lives on. The Greedy Cup is not locked behind glass — it’s shown, explained, and often demonstrated to visitors. Family members invite you to pour water and witness the moment of overflow. It’s a small act, but unforgettable.

More Than a Warning Against Overdrinking

Originally, the cup was used to promote moderation in drinking, especially among scholars and merchants who gathered for wine and conversation. Pour too much? The cup empties — a gentle, non-judgmental reminder to know your limit.

But its lesson goes far beyond alcohol.
It speaks to workaholism, to consumerism, to the modern obsession with “more”: more success, more likes, more stuff.

In a world that glorifies the 100%, the cup whispers:

“80% is enough.”

And in that “enough”, there is peace.

But Here’s a Fact Few Know…

You might assume this cup is a uniquely Eastern invention. But the same device — with the same mechanism and the same moral lesson — existed in the ancient West.

In Greece, over 2,500 years ago, a nearly identical cup was attributed to the philosopher Pythagoras. Known as the Pythagorean Cup or “Cup of Justice”, it worked the same way: filled with moderation, it held wine. Filled with greed, it emptied itself completely.

Was it coincidence? Or did two great civilizations, separated by continents, arrive at the same truth?

True wisdom isn’t about taking all you can — it’s about knowing when to stop.

A Timeless Lesson Across Civilizations

Whether you call it the Cup of Confucius or the Cup of Pythagoras, it carries the same message across millennia and cultures:

Moderation is not limitation. It is freedom.

Visiting Tan Ky House is not just a cultural experience — it’s a moment of reflection. You leave not only with photos, but with a question:

“Where in my life am I overfilling the cup?”

And perhaps, just perhaps, you’ll choose to leave a little space — for peace, for gratitude, for what truly matters.

Practical Info for Visitors

📍 Where: Tan Ky House, 101 Nguyễn Thái Học, Hoi An Old Town, Vietnam
🎟️ Entry: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (~120,000 VND / ~$5 USD), valid 4 days
🕒 Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
📸 Photos: Allowed (no flash)
🗣️ Guides: Available in English, Italian, French; family members often share personal stories
🛍️ Souvenirs: Small shop with handmade crafts, including replicas of the Greedy Cup
🚌 Access: Easy to reach on foot or bicycle; central location near the Japanese Covered Bridge

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

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Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs are operating at the height of good taste as Central Vietnam affirms its credentials as one of Asia’s most exciting culinary destinations. Danang has long been an ambassador for Central Vietnamese cuisine thanks to its rich variety of dishes. In addition to iconic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi, visitors can sample regional specialities like mi Quang (turmeric rice noodles with shrimp and pork), bun cha ca (fishcake noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese savoury crepe) and street-side congee (rice porridge) with braised duck. Seafood restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced catches are also a standout feature.

Central Vietnam is renowned globally for its vast selection of delicious indigenous dishes

The region’s gastronomic reputation was further burnished in 2024 with the inclusion of Danang as one of Vietnam’s three MICHELIN Guide destinations. With MICHELIN inspectors now assessing the city’s diverse dining scene, Danang joins Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as a recognized gourmet hub.

While local flavours are a major draw, Central Vietnam also boasts an impressive array of international dining experiences. Among the most prestigious is La Maison 1888, Danang’s one-Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant, which continues to attract food lovers from around the world.

VGC clubs Ba Na Hills Golf Club, Montgomerie Links, and Laguna Golf Lang Co have embraced this culinary excellence, ensuring that visitors can enjoy both world-class golf and standout gastronomy.

“Dining is a key part of the guest experience here at Laguna Lang Co,” said Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Lang Co. “With ten diverse restaurants and lounges across the resort, we offer a wealth of options—from beachfront Mediterranean dining at Azura to authentic Vietnamese cuisine at The Water Court and stunning Thai flavours at Saffron, our signature Banyan Tree restaurant perched on a hilltop with panoramic sea views. The recent upgrades to Azura and Moomba take our F&B offering to the next level.

Azura, the beachfront venue at Banyan Tree Lang Co, has undergone significant upgrades to enhance the dining experience

“Our clubhouse 67 Bar, with its stunning panoramic golf views, is always a favourite among resort guests. Located in our unique alfresco clubhouse, it provides the perfect setting to unwind after a round, enjoy a crafted cocktail, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery.”

Other Vietnam Golf Coast destinations, such as Hoi An and Hue, are equally renowned for their local gastronomy. Hoi An’s specialties like cao lau and white rose dumplings captivate visitors, while Hue’s imperial cuisine—including bun bo Hue—reflects the city’s rich history as Vietnam’s former capital. The combination of historic flavours and modern innovation ensures that Central Vietnam remains a top destination for food lovers.

The culinary experience extends to the golf clubs themselves, where world-class dining complements elite golf facilities.

At Montgomerie Links, dining is central to the club’s appeal. Its Birdies restaurant has earned acclaim for its elevated East-meets-West cuisine, blending international techniques with local ingredients to create a menu that satisfies both Vietnamese and global palates. The venue utilizes the very finest produce on seasonal menus that change regularly to ensure fresh dining experiences that are always evolving.

“The golf experience isn’t just about the fairways—it’s about the entire atmosphere, and dining plays a huge role in that,” said Le Vo Hoang Van, Club Manager at Montgomerie Links. “At Birdies, we take pride in offering dishes that are as refined as our course, ensuring that every aspect of a visit to Montgomerie Links is memorable.”

The fantastic La Maison 1888 is Central Vietnam’s first MICHELIN-starred restaurant

Ba Na Hills Golf Club boasts a clubhouse restaurant offering a range of flavours, from Vietnamese specialities to Korean favourites and Western dishes, ensuring international visitors feel at home. The club was recognized for its culinary offerings last year when it won the 2024 Vietnam Golf & Leisure Award for Best F&B Course. Additionally, the club is conveniently located near BaNa Brewhouse at Sun World Ba Na Hills, famous for brewing its own SunKraftbeer, an ideal post-round refreshment.

“Our goal is to provide golfers with an exceptional experience both on and off the course,” said Simon Mees, General Manager of Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “Having a fantastic meal after a round, whether it’s a local speciality or an ice-cold SunKraftbeer at Bana Brewhouse, is all part of the package.”

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Indochina Rail Tourist Service joint stock company and Wafaifo Optimisers have signed a management agreement for Wafaifo Optimisers to manage the Revolution Express steam train, a remarkable new tourist experience in central Vietnam, which is expected to launch late 2024 or early 2025.
Two original steam locomotives from the 1960s have been lovingly restored to working condition. The locomotives will pull two fully appointed retro-styled carriages that can seat up to 57 passengers each, as well as a custom-made kitchen carriage and a baggage carriage.

Full steam ahead following the signing ceremony on 20 May

The locomotives are the last remaining working steam ones in Vietnam, dating from the pre-independence era, both built locally in Vietnam, based on the French Mikado design. They have been painstakingly restored over a number of years, using original parts and utilising the skills of the last remaining steam engineers working for Vietnam Railways.
The Revolution Express will make a return trip between Danang city and the former royal capital of Hue each day. Each journey will traverse the scenically remarkable Hai Van coastal mountain range and stop at Lang Co adjacent to beautiful lagoon and beach scenery.
Surrounded by old world splendour and served by talents in period costume, passengers will be able to enjoy light food and drinks as they view one of the most picturesque coastlines and mountain passes in Southeast Asia.

Indochina Rail and Wafaifo Optimisers signed the partnership agreement on 20 May in Danang in central Vietnam. The two parties were represented by Indochina Rail’s Chairman, Mr Michael Gebbie and  Wafaifo Optimisers’ Managing Director, Mr Pieter van der Hoeven, and Commercial Director, Mr Mikkel Krantz.

The final touches are being added to the Revolution Express locomotive in its engineering workshop in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

“We are proud to bring these old dames of rail back to life and to showcase important periods in Vietnamese history from imperial through colonial rule and finally the struggle to independence,” said Mr Gebbie.

“We seek to give visitors an interactive sense of Vietnam‘s history and future. Whether you enjoy learning about history or trains, or just want to ride an authentic heritage steam train over the famously scenic Hai Van Pass, the Revolution Express will offer a magical experience for young and old alike,” he said.
Mr van der Hoeven added: “The Wafaifo Optimisers team is excited to be a part of a remarkable heritage tourism story that will allow train enthusiasts and mainstream tourists to feel like they are travelling back in time, in comfort, in a scenically spectacular corner of Vietnam.”

The Revolution Express will traverse the train line along coastal mountains [pictured] adjacent to the Hai Van Pass in central Vietnam, twice a day

In Hue, the original train maintenance building is being beautifully refurbished as the Station Restaurant. The venue is being themed in an imperial manner befitting the history of Hue, the last bastion of the dynastic era in Vietnam.
In Lang Co, the restaurant will be themed to mark the independence that Vietnam enjoys today. Apart from a full restaurant offering, food carts will be on the station platform offering homemade ice cream, freshly squeezed fruit juices, Vietnamese coffee, and newly pressed sugar cane. Regular VNR-run trains all stop at Lang Co station for passenger refreshments.

Renderings of interior of the Revolution Express, by Indochina Rail Tourist Service joint stock company and Wafaifo Optimisers

Potentially the third restaurant at the station on the outskirts of Danang will be developed. If so, it will be themed in a colonial manner to reflect a different era in Vietnam’s national journey.
The plan is that when the Revolution Express arrives at the stations on the route a brass band in army regalia will greet disembarking guests.
The Revolution Express is the only private rail operator in Vietnam.
Wafaifo Optimisers will be responsible for marketing, booking and catering for the Revolution Express and its stations. The company will also open its own urban resort in the heritage city of Hoi An in the third quarter of this year.
Further announcements on the commencement of the Revolution Express and how to book will be made in the next few months.

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The Wafaifo Hoi An Resort in the ancient heritage capital of Hoi An in central Vietnam will open its doors to guests on 1 September this year. Bookings are now available on Wafaifo.com for the phase 1 opening of the privately and locally-owned boutique property which will ultimately offer 134-rooms and suites and a range of dining and lifestyle outlets, a 10-minute walk from Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed heritage attractions.
The resort will deliver a modern interpretation of Hoi An hospitality, dining, wellness and community lifestyles in a lively tourist city where analysts say visitor numbers could repeat 2019 record breaking levels by the end of 2024.

“The museums, night market shops, restaurants and bars in the old quarter in Hoi An are really bustling again,” said Mikkel Krantz (pictured), Commercial Director of Wafaifo Hospitality. “With the upturn in tourism, the timing is right for us to unveil wonderful new hotel rooms and dining options that reflect Hoi An’s unique melting pot culture,” he said.

The Wafaifo Hoi An double room

From 1 September, four room categories will be available at the new downtown resort: Faifo, Swim City, Faifo Terrace, and Wheelchair Friendly.
The initial inventory of rooms include balcony options, king-sized or twin beds, high speed WiFi, 24-hour room service, electronically switchable privacy glass between bedroom and bathroom, ‘see out, not in’ main window, anti-steam bathroom mirror, and all the amenities international guests would expect in a high-end urban resort in Asia.
On food and beverage, the Xua & Nay international and Vietnamese restaurant in the resort will have the only Josper oven and grill in central Vietnam. The charcoal-wood grill is renowned for giving a prized smoky flavour to grilled seafood, meats and vegetables.

Mikkel Krantz

“In rooms and food, our quality will be high, but pricing competitive,” said Mr Krantz. “We are creating a community experience where both locals and international tourists, we believe, will be pleasantly surprised and delighted in equal measure.”
From 1 September the resort will also give guests access to a 25 x 6-metre swimming pool and unprecedented wellness, spa, gym, fitness, beauty and health options unique to central Vietnam. There will also be DJ sessions by the pool, a cinema, kids’ club, outdoor playground and a retail lobby shop available from that date.
A highlight for visitors meeting or relaxing in the lobby and adjacent areas of the resort will be a replica Japanese Bridge, a water fountain that ‘dances to music’ and a terracotta statue heritage walk, all suitable for social media posts.
In October the resort will open its fully equipped, high tech meeting facilities.
In early 2025, the Wafaifo Resort Hoi An will also add luxurious suites and a signature Vietnamese fine dining outlet.
The name “Wafaifo”, said Mr Krantz, is a portmanteau word combining “water” and “Faifo,” the ancient former name of Hoi An, a city which grew to regional eminence as a major port in Southeast Asia which traded with merchants from Japan, China, Holland, England and France between the 16th and 19th centuries.
The architectural legacy of that period now attracts tourists from around the world and is a 10-minute walk away from the downtown Wafaifo Resort.
Vietnam’s Tourism Arrivals Rebounding
According to Statista.com,* Vietnam attracted 12.6 million international tourists in 2023, up from 3.6 million in 2022. Analysts at Wafaifo Optimisers, the resort’s inhouse tourism intelligence unit, predict that Vietnam has a chance to match its 2019 all-time high figure of 18 million visitors by year end 2024. Domestic tourism is already a robust and increasingly important market, it said.
Hoi An is a 40-minute drive from Danang International Airport in central Vietnam. Danang has direct air links with 22 cities in 11 countries and four destinations within Vietnam.
Bookings for Wafaifo Resort Hoi An for stays after 1 September 2024 are available on Wafaifo.com or by calling +84 235 378 6999. Email: reservation@wafaifo.com.

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Bill Bensley, the ultimate art world “outsider”, invites a select few to join him from September 15-17 to “Discover Your Inner Artist” at the stunning InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, the five-star resort nestled in 39 hectares of nature on Vietnam’s Son Tra Peninsula.

Bensley, better known as one of the first names in global architecture and interior design, has wowed the art world with his late-blooming, self-taught talent. After a highly successful art weekend at InterContintenal Danang in March, he is back by popular demand and invites aspiring artists to join him for a once-in-a-lifetime weekend of full immersion in all thing art.

Bensley will share his secrets, tips and techniques and help you unlock talent you never knew existed or provoke experienced artists to stretch their wings and broaden their horizons in new directions.

Workshop participants go in search of their inner artist with guidance from Bill Bensley for some en plein air action in Hoi An

Expect art-packed and highly participative days with drawing and design sessions, gourmet meals, and a sketching trip to Hoi An with Bill himself. This small-group setting is designed to develop your hidden talents and the opportunity to explore your creativity – and did we mention it is going to be a blast?

The weekend begins with a Friday cocktail reception, fascinating slideshow by Bill on ‘Art that Inspires’ to get the juices flowing, a Q&A session and a sumptuous art dinner at Citron. Saturday begins with a leisurely breakfast, and a trip to stunning Hoi An to seek inspiration and hone your sketching talents. After lunch and an art lesson with Bill, it’s back to the resort for a dinner and to unpack an action-packed day of learning and expression. Sunday is A Day of Masterpieces, with an all-day art workshop in the Great Hall, leading up to a group exhibition, with feedback and reviews.

A self-taught artist, Bill Bensley is now ready to guide other “outsiders” and help guests unlock their hidden talent

As a self-taught artist, Bill considers his outsider status his superpower when it comes to unlocking talent in others. In this immersive three-day weekend, budding artists will be able to chat with Bill and learn what inspires him, while also exploring diverse mediums such as watercolours, pastels, charcoal and more.

“We are delighted once more to invite guests to discover their inner artist in this one-of-a-kind workshop. Bill is a legend and we are so honoured and excited to welcome him back. Of course, his art is a permanent part of the hotel too at our one-of-a-kind BENSLEY Outsider Gallery, where his vibrant visions make a perfect memory to take back home,” said Seif Hamdy, General Manager, InterContintenal Danang.

“Our last art weekend with him was incredible, once in a lifetime stuff, and there’s even more on offer this time. My advice would be to book early, as demand is expected to be high and places are strictly limited.”

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

“Discover your Inner Artist” with Bill Bensley includes a 20pc discount on all the resort’s accommodation choices, all art supplies and equipment provided, and all meals included apart from Saturday’s ‘dinner at leisure’, for VND 15,000,000++ per person. To support Bill’s charitable Shinta Mani Foundation, an optional donation of VND 23,500,000 per person is suggested to support the incredible work he does. (English to Vietnamese translators are available upon request).

For full information, please visit www.danang.intercontinental.com/offers/bill-bensley-art-expedition.

To book this workshop, please call +84 236 393 8888 or email reservations.icdanang@ihg.com. For more information, please visit www.danang.intercontinental.com.

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Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs are showcasing the broad appeal of Central Vietnam via a range of stay/play options.

Layouts such as Laguna Golf Lăng Cô, a Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design, and Ba Na Hills Golf Club, laid out by British current Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald over rolling foothills, are ranked among Asia’s top courses. Other highlights for play, meanwhile, include courses designed by luminaries including Greg Norman, Colin Montgomerie, Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Jack Nicklaus. And bolstering their appeal to golfers and non-golfers alike are accommodations that are up there with the best Vietnam has to offer.

“Central Vietnam’s emergence as one of the finest golf destinations in Asia is attributable to several factors,” says Adam Calver, Director of Golf & Destination Marketing at Laguna Lăng Cô, one of the driving forces in the VGC, a freshly rebooted destination marketing organization that links the region’s best signature golf layouts.

“Not only do we have a concentrated collection of championship courses to rival any. But the area is also blessed with fantastic accommodation options to suit varying budgets and requirements.”

The residential component at Laguna Lang Co encompasses some of Vietnam’s most spectacular accommodations

At Laguna Lăng Cô, the Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design at Laguna Golf Lăng Cô is enhanced by resorts like the award-winning properties Banyan Tree Lăng Cô and Angsana Lăng Cô, as well as the Laguna Parkside Residences Lăng Cô that line the 18^th fairway of the course.

The latter residences are the accommodation component in a special “Dream Golf Vacation” package that offers generous discounts for a stay/play combination.

Heading south over the Hai Van pass from Lăng Cô, golfers and their families can kick back in style at an array of alluring resorts and hotels in and around Danang.

A few lusty long-iron shots from Ba Na Hills Golf Club is Mercure French Village Ba Na Hills. A centrepiece of the Sun World Ba Na Hills complex, the property offers a cool retreat in the hills as well as easy access to the Luke Donald layout.

Other options within easy reach of Ba Na Hills Golf Club include the beachside Premier Village Danang, with its ultra-modern villas offering a home away from home while in the area.

In Danang itself, the Novotel Danang Premier Hotel is situated right on the iconic Han River in the centre of the city.

Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills is a 150-metre-long pedestrian bridge that is one of Asia’s most photographed landmarks

Lovers of secluded luxury, meanwhile, can opt for the stunning Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, designed by acclaimed resort starchitect Bill Bensley and tucked away on the Son Tra Peninsula.

With high-quality golf combined with incredible beaches and luxury resorts, Central Vietnam is Vietnam’s hub for golf tourism. It offers a range of attractions, including the heritage sites in history-steeped Hoi An and the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills: a 150-metre-long pedestrian bridge that is one of Asia’s most photographed landmarks.

“We’ve got every type of golfer covered with our range of stay/play combinations,” said Gary Dixon, general manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club. “With luxury and family-friendly resorts complementing the area’s courses and off-course attractions, Central Vietnam is a truly world-class golf hub.”

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When Miss Ngoc from The Memory Danang hotel in Danang offered Leonardo and I to join their tour to Hoi An and to the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, we did not hesitate and booked a place for me and my boy Leonardo. I was surprised to learn that the tour would not be aboard of a minivan, but by scooter.

Well, we had our great electric scooter, courtesy of The Motorbike Station, and we love adventure. So on a sunny and steaming-hot early afternoon, we left Danang in a group of ‘bikers’, comprising a few guests and four staff from The Memory Danang, for the drive to Hoi An.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Leonardo attempting pottery creation

The way was the coastal road, running along an amazing stretch of beach that goes for an amazing 30km, and before long we reached the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, an artisans’ village far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Dating back to the 15th Century, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is rich in history and still carries on the pottery tradition: it has contributed to the creation of many amazing sites in Vietnam throughout the years.

We paid the entrance ticket and walked through the narrow brick layering roads and alleys until we reached a small pottery producing family compound with lots of colourful and original pottery on display. There, an old lady provided us with bags of soft clay and laid hay mats on the floor for us. She then placed a few wooden boards on the mats and put the clay onto them. We were ready to mould!

The shop of an artisan

While the local lady trained our group on how to make pottery, Ms Ngoc told us about a traditional and unique method of manually shaping pottery by hand and foot pedal without using moulds, with final products not enamelled or heated by a traditional wood kiln. We then started making pottery, or at least we attempted making it, coached by the expert lady in the most amazing peace and tranquility that only a local village can guarantee.

Ladies mastering the old art at the pottery village

While this all sounds like a tourist trap, believe when I say that for us it was an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of traditional craft and the process of creating unique ceramic products from talented and skilful artisans. Needless to say my boy Leonardo enjoyed so much getting his hands dirty with clay and producing small dinosaurs and monstrous figures that would be later dried and delivered to the hotel for him. And at the end of the practice, we received a pottery gift: an hand made ocarina with the shape of an animal.

hand made ocarinas with the shape of various animals

At 5pm it started raining so we decided to skip the Terracotta Museum and headed straight to Hoi An. Hoi An is often described by travellers as one of the tastiest cities in Vietnam, and it is famous for its authentic cuisine and local specialties. There’s a wide selection of eateries to choose from and affordable prices are part of the charm. We entered one of these eateries, and enjoyed an array of local dishes comprising rice paper and mussels, all yummy of course! After the meal, it was time to walk along the alleys of historical Hoi An.

Hoi An

A food joint in Hoi An

Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and its street plan reflect the influences, both indigenous and foreign, that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. It remains complete as a homogenous complex of traditional wooden buildings, with the original organically developed street plan within the town’s river/seacoast setting.

Hoi An historical building

Hoi An Ancient Town was classified as a National Cultural Heritage Site in 1985, with a management plan implemented at the time of nomination of the property that is being kept up to date and reviewed as required by UNESCO to ensure that it remains effective

Hoi An is like a living museum: the town’s original street plan and gorgeous architecture have been maintained despite urbanisation, with more than 800 preserved ancient buildings to marvel at. The rain stopped and the group walked the small streets, trying local products like a herbal lemon tea at popular Mot Hoi An tea house, and taking loads of photos. It was hard to walk along streets full of tourists, so we headed to the Hoai River, where an amazing show awaited us.

Tourist boats in the Hoai River

In the water, dozens of wooden boats were transporting customers for the customary 15 minutes boat ride, and old ladies sold lanterns to be released in the river below, which was already replete with them. Releasing lanterns not only brings beauty to traditional culture, but also carries an extremely deep spiritual value to the local people here. All was lit by an amazingly bright full moon.

Leonardo was unimpressed by his herbal tea

Needless to say, Leonardo was speechless. He was so tired that he fell asleep during the bike trip back to Danang. He had so many exciting activities and sights during this half-day tour, but the highlight for him was the care and attention of the amazing staff of The Memory Danang. They all speak excellent English and were also an amazing asset to the tour, as they contributed to many explanations about this amazing cultural heritage. We made it back by 8,30 pm, and we were ready to spend another night in our great room at The Memory Danang.

The Memory Danang reel of tour to Hoi An and The Thanh Ha Pottery Village: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1342824656265013.

Bike Rental

Asian Itinerary traveled to Hoi An on an amazing Vinfast scooter, a Vietnamese version of a Vespa, kindly provided by The Motorbike Station. This one was electric, brand new, and it was yellow. Leonardo and I enjoyed immensely. Contact The Motorbike Station for your bike rental needs in Danang, reach them on Whataspp/Zalo/Wechat/Twitter/Viber/Kakaotalk: (+84) 922 771 171, or email them at themotorbikestation@gmail.com

The post Leonardo at Hoi An and The Thanh Ha Pottery Village appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, the tropical beachfront paradise on Vietnam’s stunning central coast, sets the stage for life’s most magical moments. From the ultimate date night under the stars to perfect proposals on the soft sand, and even one-of-a-kind weddings overlooking the ocean, this is a haven of romance that is sure to connect couples and write an exciting new chapter in every love story.

Couples can create magical memories together at Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, which overlooks the golden beach

Couples’ vacations are among life’s most important occasions. They provide priceless opportunities to escape the stress and strain of daily life and reconnect with your partner in paradise. At Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, every element of the guest journey is designed to bring people together – from spa therapies and culinary adventures to exhilarating excursions, shared activities and so much more.
Strolling hand-in-hand along Non Nuoc Beach at sunrise is a truly serene experience, while dreamy daytimes can be spent sharing new hobbies such as stand-up paddle-boarding and kayaking on the gentle ocean waves, or enjoying soothing couples’ therapies at Quan Spa, the resort’s oasis of tranquility. Culture-seekers will love cycling out into the verdant countryside, stopping to take photos in traditional villages or next to rippling rice fields. And local attractions such as the Golden Bridge, which appears to be gently held by a pair of hands, or Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage port town with its quaint cobbled streets and elegant shophouses, are deeply evocative attractions.
Gastronomy can create wonderfully romantic occasions – especially in a setting as enchanting as Danang Marriott Resort & Spa. At Madame Son, the atmospheric Asian restaurant, guests can savor authentic Vietnamese delicacies amid hanging lanterns and classical artworks, while Non Nuoc Bar is a great spot to raise a glass to each other, whilst gazing out over the infinity pool and shimmering sea. For an unforgettable evening under the stars, the resort’s culinary team can set up a private candlelit dinner on the beach – the perfect place to pop the question.

Couples can enjoy romantic candlelit dinners on Non Nuoc Beach – the perfect setting for proposals

Naturally, Danang Marriott Resort & Spa is a dream destination for weddings and other special events. Brides and grooms can take advantage of a choice of packages for every occasion, such as proposals, pre-wedding photo-shoots, engagements, weddings and honeymoons. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration, the resort’s professional planning team will work hand-in-hand with the happy couple to ensure that all aspects of their “big day” run seamlessly.
With a choice of spectacular venues, including the beautiful 500-guest Grand Ballroom, the lush outdoor lawn and of course, the breath-taking beach, plus creative catering services, fragrant flowers, inspiring audio-visual elements and professional photography, brides and grooms can walk down the aisle in complete confidence that their wedding day will be a success. A selection of wedding packages include “Sense of Romance,” which is ideal for intimate beachfront weddings, “L.O.V.E.” which is suitable for more lavish occasions, including an outdoor ceremony, reception and a romantic stay for newly-weds, and “Allure,” a truly lavish celebration with every inclusion, including a live violin performance, cocktail & canapé reception and much more. To learn more or to pick your perfect wedding package at Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, please click here.

Dream weddings can be staged on the elegant outdoor lawn

“At Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, we always strive to help guests make memories that last a lifetime. With our extensive collection of facilities and activities, all set against the blissful backdrop of the golden beach and turquoise sea, we can ensure that every couple can create their ultimate vacation – from activity-seeking travellers to those who simply want to relax and reconnect with each other. And of course, we can set the stage for life’s most meaningful moments, including the world’s finest weddings,” said Piotr Madej, General Manager, Danang Marriott Resort & Spa.
The new “Summer Retreat” package is tailored to the unique needs of couples. Whisk your partner away for a romantic retreat, including a complimentary upgrade to the next available room category, sumptuous daily breakfast for two people, a daily turndown service, and a 60-minute couple’s treatment at Quan Spa. Guests will also be treated to a 20% discount at all restaurants and bars.
For more information and to book a family vacation at Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, please click here.

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Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa is set to introduce a new era of exciting and inspiring hospitality to Vietnam’s central coast with the launch of a series of enhancements, including refreshed accommodation, social and culinary venues, children’s activities and more, to reaffirm its position as the area’s leading luxury family resort.

Nestled on a tranquil stretch of Non Nuoc Beach, the gateway to the vibrant city of Danang and UNESCO-listed Hoi An, this five-star resort has been a desirable destination for families, friends and couples to unwind together since its opening in 2011. Now, following a series of important upgrades, Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa is ready to elevate the visitor experience to even greater heights.

FUN-FILLED CHILDREN’S EXPERIENCES

The revamped and expanded Camp Hyatt features four themed indoor and outdoor play zones

Camp Hyatt is being expanded and relaunched as an oasis of fun, inspired by Vietnam’s myths and legends. With four distinct indoor and outdoor play zones – Earth, Water, Fire and Wood – this immersive kids’ club will feature an exhilarating array of activities, including toddler play pits, ball pools, canopy swings, climbing nets, a water obstacle course, and more. These upgraded spaces have been officially unveiled in April.

FRESH CULINARY VENUES

Parents and other guests will also have plenty of opportunities to relax at Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa following the official opening of Vive Océane in June. The first beach club restaurant of its kind in Danang, this alfresco lounge will tantalize travelers’ taste buds with French-Mediterranean and Vietnamese cuisine, crafted using the freshest ingredients and local seafood overlooking the shimmering sea. Cabanas will be ideal for couples to cuddle up, a show kitchen will add a sense of culinary theater, while regular entertainment shows, DJs and bands will create an upbeat atmosphere. This inviting venue will also provide a unique option for outdoor events.

Vive Océane is a new beach club and restaurant that lets guests savor casual cuisine and cuddle up in cozy cabanas

Newly-opened, Terrasse offers pre-dinner drinks, artistic cocktails and thoughtfully crafted canapés. A choice of seating includes comfy sofas, while “brazero” fire pits and classic silent movies, screened daily, add to the enchanting ambiance during the golden hours of the day.

The resort’s authentic Italian restaurant is being rebranded and reimagined with a creative new concept. Overseen by Executive Chef Pierre Tavernier and Italian Chef Marco Pistillo, Osteria al Mare will be relaunched in May, showcasing casual and contemporary Italian cuisine including freshly-made pasta and a social “Share Share” concept which will be perfect for families and friends to enjoy together.

CREATIVE CULTURAL HUB

A new Art Gallery will also be unveiled as an exclusive space for talented local and visiting artists to exhibit their work and to provide an original attraction for culture seekers. This collaborative venue will be officially launched in June with an exhibition by Réhahn, the globally-recognized photographer.

UPGRADED POOL VILLAS

The resort’s luxurious three-bedroom Pool Villas are being enhanced with fresh interiors and additional facilities

Finally, the resort’s 18 luxurious three-bedroom Pool Villas are being progressively refurbished with new interior furnishings, furniture, and enhanced facilities, plus a garden area where families can play together. A new direct pathway from the villas to the beach will also put the soft sands of Non Nuoc Beach on guests’ doorstep. This renovation project is set to be completed by June 2023.

“I am delighted to reveal details of our resort’s transformation, which is set to elevate our guest experience and enhance the quality of luxury hospitality in Danang. With outstanding new facilities for young and old, including an expanded, locally-inspired Camp Hyatt, our beautiful new Vive Océane beach club, refurbished villas, rebranded restaurants, and a bright art gallery, we want to create exceptional experiences for every guest so they return to central Vietnam time and time again,” said Adrian Pulido, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa.

Situated on a tranquil stretch of Vietnam’s central coast, Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa is an ideal base to explore the area’s exotic local charms, including three nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Imperial City of Hue, Hoi An Ancient Town, and My Son Sanctuary. With 198 guestrooms and suites, 144 one- to three-bedroom residences and 18 three-bedroom villas, plus 700 meters of fine sandy beach, five outdoor pools, a fitness center, spa, and a selection of restaurants and bars that showcase world-class gastronomy, this resort is ideal for every occasion, from couples’ breaks and family vacations to unforgettable events.

Many of the new facilities, including Vive Océane and the Art Gallery, have already soft-opened ahead of their official launch dates. For more information and reservations, please click here.

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Viet Deli, the restaurant company behind some of Vietnam’s most popular dining establishments, has moved its much-loved HOME restaurants in Hanoi and Hoi An to exquisite new premises.

The first restaurant to debut under Viet Deli’s umbrella, HOME Hanoi, that opened its doors in 2015 at 34 Chau Long Street, has relocated to 75 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street.

HOME Hanoi reopened on January 9 this year in a grand four-story French villa, situated down a quaint lane that gives way to a private courtyard strung with lanterns. Catering for up to 120 diners, the meticulously maintained villa’s interior is defined by brickwork, timber beams and Vietnamese art.

HOME Hoi An

Meanwhile, HOME Hoi An reopened on February 2 this year at 14 La Hoi Street in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Vietnam’s central coast, after first opening in 2016 at 112 Nguyen Thai Hoc. Near many of the town’s famed attractions including its street markets and Thu Bon River, HOME Hoi An’s new home is a villa bathed in a distinctive golden-hue, like most of the Ancient Town. The restaurant caters to 120 diners, with a 19^thcentury-themed interior adorned with lanterns, vintage photography of Hoi An and more.

HOME Hanoi and HOME Hoi An each specialize in authentic local Hanoian and Hoi An cuisine respectively with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

“Our new HOME restaurants in Hanoi and Hoi An continue to create a charming atmosphere where diners feel we are welcoming them into a friendly family home, offering authentic local dishes to be shared between family and friends, albeit in even more exquisite homes now that are both more spacious and in better locations,” Viet Deli founder and chairman Nguyen Cao Son said.

HOME Hanoi’s signature dishes include ‘Phở cuốn Hà Thành’ (Hanoian ‘phở’ noodles with beef spring rolls), ‘Bún chả phố cổ’ (Hanoian grilled pork with rice noodle), and ‘Vịt nướng riềng sả’ (traditional char-grilled duck). ‘Bánh ướt cuốn thịt nướng’ (steamed Hoi An rice paper with carameliszed pork rolls), ‘Tôm sú xào rau tập tàng’ (stir-fried prawns with local vegetable), and ‘Cao lầu bá lễ’ (traditional Hoi An noodles with Char-siu pork) are among HOME Hoi An’s popular dishes.

Ngon Gallery Nha Trang

Viet Deli’s restaurant Ngon Gallery Nha Trang is dedicated to lobster with live cooking stations that serve up Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Western and Chinese fare. Situated at Citadines Bayfront Nha Trang Hotel at 62 Tran Phu along Nha Trang beach, Ngon Gallery’s buffet menu includes fresh locally-sourced seafood such as lobster, tiger prawns, oysters, crabs, scallops, fish, octopus, mussels and clams, meats such as steak, lamb, pork and chicken, as well as vegetarian dishes.

HOME Hanoi, HOME Hoi An and Ngon Gallery Nha Trang all consistently rank on TripAdvisor among the top 10 dining venues in their respective destinations.

Since Viet Deli, headquartered in Hanoi, began in 2015, it has launched a diverse mix of successful restaurants in Vietnam.

For more information or to make a reservation visit homevietnameserestaurants.com and https://ngongalleryvn.com/en/

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The Art of Romance in Bali

‘The Art of Romance’ is a two-night stay with all the romantic trimmings at a secluded resort in the uplands of Bali. Upon arrival at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, each couple will find a floral aromatherapy bath already drawn in their room and a welcome cake. After that it’s time for afternoon tea, served picnic style while overlooking the scenic rice paddies the property is known for. A photo session, shot throughout the grounds, uses mythical stone sculptures, ponds graced with swans, rice paddies, temples, and the verdant landscape as a backdrop. At the resort’s Tempayan restaurant, housed in a traditional bale-inspired building, the duo will enjoy a three-course candlelit meal. A 120-minute couples spa ritual in a deluxe double spa suite, with an oversized semi-outdoor terrazzo bath, and private steam shower, rounds out the romantic stay and is accompanied by a bottle of sparkling wine to be enjoyed in or out of the tub. The package is on offer for bookings until June 30, 2023. Rates start from USD 1,190 nett. For more information visit: https://www.tanahgajahubud.com/en/offers-promotion/the-art-of-romance

Igniting Amour in Quy Nhon

If one way to the heart routes through the stomach, guests of Fusion Hotel Group’s gastronomy-focused property Maia Resort Quy Nhon are getting a head start when it comes to love. Maiamour, the resort’s recently unveiled package, is designed for couples and blends wellness and cuisine over the course of a three-night stay. The stay is inclusive of an array of personalized offerings including Once Upon a Table, a four-course chef’s table style experience served in the resort’s intimate specialty restaurant, ad hoc, or Destination Dining which can be enjoyed on the powdery sands of Phuong Mai Bay or in villa. Daily pre-dinner sunset cocktails are also included as is a one-time artisanal afternoon tea set. Maia’s seaside spa, Vēla, invites couples to enjoy a signature 90-minute wellness journey inclusive of an infrared sauna therapy session; body rejuvenation rituals inclusive of massages; healing therapies or anti-ageing facial care treatments. Carefully appointed in-villa décor, including a customized floral arrangement and romantic bath ritual, are also part of the Maiamour offering. Rates start at VND 23,7000,000 for a three-night stay.

For more details regarding inclusions or rates, please contact the Reservations Department via email at reservations.mrqn@fusionhotelgroup.com or visit Maia Resort’s website https://quynhon.maiaresorts.com/

Commemorating that special someone in Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo‘s celebration-worthy stay experience ‘Commemorating Tokyo‘ presents ten elements specially curated to mark the Forbes Five-Star property’s ten-year anniversary milestone. Ideal for couples highlights include: A three-night stay for the price of two; ‘Blooming’ cocktails for two at Royal Bar, the hotel’s Old-World bar, or at Lounge Bar Privé, made with a refreshing blend of yuzu liqueur, sakura liqueur, Lillet Blanc and the hotel’s signature 1-1-1 sake; daily moat-side breakfast at Grand Kitchen, a bottle of Palace Hotel Tokyo’s private-label Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Bordeaux to take home or indulge during the stay; a box of the hotel’s signature chiyo choco chocolate imprinted with distinctive Japanese motifs; a prix-fixe dinner for two at contemporary French restaurant Esterre, teppanyaki-style restaurant GO, or Wadakura, known for its exquisite Japanese kaiseki; two 120-minute ‘Blissful Moments’ treatments at evian SPA TOKYO; and afternoon tea for two. The package is available for stays until May 31, 2023. Rates start at JPY 410,000. For more information, please visit: https://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/offer/tokyo-anniversary-celebration-package

Soak in Some Romance in Saigon

Stevie Wonder’s “My Cherie Amour,” may be the perfect tune to play on repeat while enjoying Fusion’s signature hammock tub at Fusion Suites Saigon. Two nights in the Corner Suite Room, with 180-degree floor-to-ceiling windows and an insta-worthy bath, is the core element of the hotel’s “Ma Cherie” romance package. The limited-time stay includes flower decoration (on the bed or in the tub), a bouquet of roses, a bottle of wine and one daily spa treatment per guest. Rates start at USD 342 for two-nights, inclusive of breakfast. More details can be found here. Ma Cherie is available for stays until the end of February.

‘Pink’ Afternoon Tea and ‘Valen-Thai’ Dinner for Two in Chiang Mai

Cupid has aimed his bow at Meliá Chiang Mai, enticing couples with a ‘Pink Valentine’s Afternoon Tea’ for two and a ‘Valen-Thai’ romantic set dinner. The afternoon tea at Ruen Kaew Lounge from February 1-28 between 2-5pm is THB 999 net per set. Salmorajo shots with prawn skewers, golden fried potato-sausage balls with light aioli and brava sauce, mini burgers, mini strawberry sandwiches, classic Basque-style burnt cheesecake, churros with warm strawberry dipping sauce and Lychee ice popsicles are among savoury and sweet treats coupled with fine tea and freshly brewed coffee. On Valentine’s Day, 21^st floor Mai Restaurant & Bar will serve the ‘Valen-Thai’ dinner from 6-10pm for THB 3500 net per couple. Accompanied by a live violinist, the four-course dinner starts with ‘Love’s Samplers’ of tasting size portions of three different delicacies before dried squid in seasoned consommé with pork ravioli and plums. The main course is a choice between a secret recipe of angus beef steak on braised beef cheek curry with butterfly peas flower rice or baked banana leaf-wrapped king salmon with spicy tomato relish, fish sauce brined mushrooms and sticky spring roll, followed by red velvet tres leaches cake. Call +66 (0) 52 090 603 or email fb@meliachiangmai.com

Sipping Strawberry Champagne in Stunning Koh Samui

Lauded by many a travel writer as one of the leading hotels in Asia, Banyan Tree Samui creates the most spectacular and romantic setting for a dinner for two. On February 14 only, visitors are invited to savor a sumptuous “Be My Valentine” dinner at the resort’s beachfront restaurant Sands for 6,969 Baht per couple. The 7-course feast commences with an amuse bouche of poached quail eggs with Caspian Sea Pearls, followed by scallops and salmon, duck liver foie gras, a cassoulet of lobster, and, as a main course, Australian Black Angus beef tenderloin and Alaskan snowfish, before a delightful dessert of hot chocolate lava cake with ice cream. For those who prefer a sunny afternoon with a stunning sea view, a strawberry-themed Valentine’s Special “I Love You” High Tea will be served at the resort’s Lobby Lounge, perched high above the palm-tree fringed beach. Macarons, mille-feuilles, strawberry tarts, scones, mousse, cheesecake and even strawberry sushi will be on the menu, which also includes an alluring Strawberry Champagne Cocktail. The price for the High Tea Set on Valentine’s Day is just 1,699 Baht per couple. For more information or reservations, contact: samui@banyantree.com or tel:+66 077 915

Vegan Beachside Bliss in Danang

TIA Wellness Resort is helping guests enjoy the ocean this Valentine’s Day, without taking any gifts from the sea for their plates. The wellbeing-focused property, set along a stunning stretch of powdery white sand between Da Nang and Hoi An, is serving up a creative 100% plant-based feast for couples wishing to enjoy a romantic waterfront perch. Contemporary flavors and an innovative touch runs throughout the new multi-course, family-style dining menu with dishes like seared king oyster mushroom with vegan caviar and a potato-chive mousseline, and grilled spiced squash with truffle risotto. The course menu starts at VND 990,000 ++ per person. With wine, from the resort’s fully organic & biodynamic wine list, at an additional cost. For more information visit: https://tiawellnessresort.com/

Flowing with Love Beneath a Waterfall in Mai Chau

A stunning waterfall at the heart of Avana Retreat stands as the inspiration behind the boutique property that is now nestled into the verdant mountainous landscape of Mai Chau, Vietnam. Couples who wish to dine at the base of the falls can book in this Valentine’s Day and beyond for the ‘Sense of Romance’ dining experience. The multi-course meal includes decadent dishes like tuna belly with caviar, lobster cognac flambé and smoked duck breast, served beneath a canopy of trees and lit by the glow of dozens of lanterns. Often referred to as the resort’s heart, the intimate waterfall space has touched many a guest’s heart, especially when combined with an unforgettable dining experience while taking in this wonder of nature. For more information visit: https://avanaretreat.com/

Poolside dining and a private cinema screening on scenic Cam Ranh peninsula

An exquisite dinner at a picture-perfect poolside cabana, heart-shaped cakes, and a private cinema screening with bubbles are among Valentine’s Day offerings at 30-hectare beachfront resort Alma on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula. The resort’s Italian chef at fine dining Italian restaurant La Casa will craft a six-course romantic set dinner served at a private cabana beside one of the resort’s 12 swimming pools that cascade down to Long Beach, one of Vietnam’s most stunning stretches of sand. Romantic movies on request for private cinema screenings for two at 70-seat Alma Cinema are accompanied with sparkling wine and snacks. Other optional romantic touches include heart-shaped cakes at Alma Food Court’s French Bakery, a Valentine’s cocktail at American Lounge & Bar, suite or pavilion decorations, and flower bouquets at the resort’s mini-supermarket Alma Mart. Visit alma-resort.com

Cinema Under the Stars and a Romantic Dinner for Two in Cambodia’s Capital

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic 90-year-old luxury hotel in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, will celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special screening of Ghost, the 1990 romantic fantasy movie starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. The film will be played poolside, under the stars, at the hotel’s Cinema Paradiso, with a variety of food and drinks including sparkling wine served. Highlight dishes will include smoked salmon, roasted beef on crisp toast and strawberry eclair. The exclusive event is priced at $30 per person net. For something more traditional, the “Valentine’s Day Surf & Turf” at the hotel’s Le Phnom 1929 will feature a signature seafood tower, Taijma wagyu tomahawk, lamb rack and Saint Honoré cake, while a resident band performs classical love songs. The dinner is priced at $88++ per person for food only, with optional additions of $38++ for unlimited wine and cocktails (per person), and a bottle of Champagne from $98++. For reservations or inquiries, please contact 023 981 888 or email dining.leroyal@raffles.com.

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Also known as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, this country in southeastern Asia has five municipalities and 59 provinces with a population of more than 96 million residents. According to archaeological evidence, the area was first inhabited by humans in the Palaeolithic age, or the Stone Age, over 3 million years ago.

Vietnam is a great place to visit some of the local attractions. The Imperial City of Hue, Ba Be National Park and My Son are popular attractions. Some of the best attractions in Vietnam are in Hanoi, which is the capital. So, why not drop off your luggage at a nearby Hanoi luggage storage site and go explore?

The impressive Ha Long Bay

Imperial City of Hue

The walled city of Hue is an enclosure in the citadel of Hue, which was once the capital of Vietnam. In 1789, Nguyen Anh proclaimed himself Emperor Gia Long and had a walled city built for him beginning in 1804. Another set of walls and moat was built outside the original for palaces, pavilions, and gardens.

The moat is still filled with water from the Perfume River, and you can still see the Purple Forbidden City. There are many other attractions in Hue to visit while you are in Vietnam including the Buddhist temples, the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh, who was the 12^th Emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Ba Be National Park

With more than 56,000 acres of green space, Ba Be National Park was founded to protect the lake as well as the limestone and forests. The lake is a large natural freshwater lake with an average maximum depth of about 75 feet. The name means Three Lakes because there are three sections of the lake.

The Pe Leng, Pe Lu and Pe Lam are all connected but the ancient locals considered them three separate lakes. Inside the park, you can see a variety of flora and fauna. Some of the wildlife includes the rhesus macaque, the Asian black bear, and the Asian golden cat. Be sure to bring your camera to this beautiful spot.

Na Trang

For some beach fun, head to Na Trang where you can find almost four miles of waterfront space. Many of the locals as well as the tourists spend much of their time scuba diving, snorkelling, and surfing. Other exciting water sports at Na Trang include sailing, rafting, and of course, swimming.

But you should also see other natural beauties like the Ba Ho Waterfalls, Thap Ba Hot Springs, and the Chong Rock. Don’t miss the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam and Alexandre Yersin Museum while you are there. And visit the Long Son Pagoda where you can see an 80-foot-tall white Buddha.

Hanoi

Hanoi’s Train Street has become a tourist attraction

Also known as the Paris of the East, Hanoi is the most visited city in Vietnam, the capital of Vietnam, and the site of the most popular tourist attractions. Visit the Temple of Literature from 1070 AD, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where President Ho Chi Minh has rested since his death in 1969.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is another fantastic sight to see. And if you want to learn more about the culture, the city boasts nine museums featuring everything from art to Vietnamese history. Hanoi Old Quarter is another famous spot, which has 36 streets of crafts and historical architecture.

My Son

In the middle of the mountains of jungle, My Son is a temple city from the Cham era dating back to the fourth century. These abandoned and partly ruined temples built by the Kings of Champa are still a fantastic sight to see. The temples are to worship the God of Bhadreshwara, or Shiva. About 20 temples are still standing and you can get some fantastic selfies to share on your social media pages. In fact, all the buildings left at My Son are religious buildings like the Kosagra firehouse, Gopura gate tower, Kalan sanctuaries, and the Mandapa hallways. There is nothing like it anywhere else in the world.

Hoi An

The ancient town of Hoi An is full of beautiful architecture from the 1400s to the 1800s. Located near the mouth of Thu Bon River, the city was a small trading port that was very active back in the 1400s and still has many of the original buildings and monuments, both commercial and domestic.

One of the most visited and photographed places in Hoi An is the covered Japanese bridge from the 1500s. This little city is also a fantastic spot to get some souvenirs with all the local vendors peddling their wares. They also have four museums like the Folklore Museum and the Museum of Trade Ceramics.

Mui Ne

With more than 100 resorts and shops, Mui Ne is a tourist town that attracts thousands of people every year. Like Nha Trang, this city has a lot of beachfront space popular with the locals and travellers alike. The small streets are lined with coconut palms and the whole place looks like a postcard.

The sand dunes are popular in Mui Ne as well. The White Sand Dunes are famous for the dune buggies and ostriches. Yes, they have ostriches you can ride there. Kitesurfing is also another popular sport. And you can take a hot air balloon flight to see the sights from hundreds of feet in the air.

While you are in Vietnam, make sure you try some of the local eats. One of the most common street foods is Pho, which is rice noodles and broth. Or try the Cao Lau pork noodle dish in Hoi An. Goi Cuon spring rolls are also very popular. But don’t miss the banh mi sandwich that is famous worldwide.

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