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| Vietnam has been listed among Top 5 Memorable Christmas Escapes in Asia by Time Out. |
With its striking landscapes, gripping history, and rich culture, Vietnam is astoundingly exotic, absolutely compelling, and is full of unforgettable experiences for guests to enjoy. It’s a country with a stunning natural beauty and a distinctive heritage which keeps visitors coming back for more, the article wrote.
From the hustle and bustle of Hanoi to the breathtaking waters of Ha Long Bay, one of Asia’s most spectacular sights, wherever travelers choose to go they are in for an incredible adventure, Time Out reported.
Laos, which is widely considered to be an unspoiled gem of Southeast Asia, took the lead. Learning to cook local dishes in a cooking class, taking a boat trip down Nam Ou river, experiencing the stunning scenery at Kuang Si Waterfall, and exploring the Pak Ou Caves are all wonderful experiences for those looking to enjoy a Christmas holiday in Laos.
Third position went to Thailand, an enthralling land of lush mountains, emerald green rice paddies, pristine beaches, jungle-clad mountains, oversized Buddha’s, and majestic temples. All of this combines to make it an excellent choice for a Christmas adventure.
Cambodia and Myanmar came fourth and fifth, respectively.
Asia is at the top of the list for many travelers to celebrate an unforgettable Christmas away from home. The region combines all of the essential ingredients of the perfect adventure holiday, boasting aspects like nature, culture, history, food, and plenty of outdoor activities, according to the British publication.
Costa Serena brings over 2,400 international guests to Quang Ninh
The Italian-flagged Costa Serena, carrying on board more than 2,400 foreign passengers, arrived at the Ha Long International Cruise Port of Quang Ninh province on November 4, reported VOV.
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| Costa Serena cruise ship brings over 2,400 foreign passengers to Quang Ninh (Photo: daidoanket.vn) |
During the vessel’s stay, passengers are set to explore Ha Long Bay, sample delicious local cuisine, and tour the city’s downtown area and tourist attractions such as the Complex of Yen Tu Monuments and Landscape and the Quang Ninh Museum.
According to Pham Van Hiep, director of the Ha Long International Cruise Port, this is the fourth visit made by the cruiser to Ha Long city this year. So far this year the cruise ship has brought more than 11,300 international tourists to the locality.
Moving forward, Costa Serena is expected to return for another visit on November 8.
According to the schedule, from now until the end of the year, the Ha Long International Cruise Port will welcome tens of thousands of international tourists coming from about 12 cruise ships of several of the world’s most well-known brands, including Mein Schiff 6, Celebrity Solstice, and Noordam.
The arrivals of international cruise ships will contribute to creating more jobs for local workers whilst helping to develop more professional tourism services.
Quang Ninh has set a target of receiving 3.5 million international visitors this year.
Cultural exchange cements ties between Lao, Cambodian students and host families
A cultural exchange event connecting Lao and Cambodian students studying in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnamese families hosting them have been held in the southern province of Binh Thuan, aiming to strengthen the friendship and comprehensive and sustainable cooperation between Vietnam and its two neighboring countries.
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| Lao and Cambodian students studying in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnamese families hosting them pose for a group photo at the event. (Photo: VNA) |
Taking place on November 2 and 3, the annual event saw approximately 160 students visiting local scenic spots and historical sites, and engaging in cultural exchanges with their Vietnamese peers and host families.
They paid tribute to President Ho Chi Minh at a local museum dedicated to the late Vietnamese leader and toured the Duc Thanh school, where he once taught before leaving the country to seek a way for national salvation. Additionally, the participants engaged in a series of exchange activities, including a knowledge contest about the life, career, and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh as well as the historical and cultural ties between Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
In his remarks, Vice President of the HCM City Federation of Labour Phung Thai Quang said that the friendship among the three peoples was forged through challenging times, especially during their struggles for independence and freedom.
He highlighted that the homestay programme not only offers material and emotional support for Lao and Cambodian students far from home but also serves as a strong bridge between them and their Vietnamese host parents. Its impact goes beyond familial bonds, resonating broadly as a vivid testament to international solidarity and cross-border friendship, Quang noted.
Xaiyavong Duangmany, a Lao student at the Nguyen Tat Thanh university who has lived in Vietnam since 2019, said he and his friends learn about culture and knowledge at school as well as life skills, daily routines, and the customs of Vietnamese families which they consider their beloved second home.
Programme provides art space to bring youths together
A programme themed ‘Culture in You’ was launched in Hanoi on November 3, featuring a wide range of creative arts activities and performances for young people, reported NDO.
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The programme includes exchanges between famous Australian musical artists and Vietnamese students
(Sourcce: NDO) |
The programme is co-hosted by the Youniverse Company, the Interstellar Musical Community, and the Centre for Journalism and Culture under the Vietnam Journalists’ Association.
It aims to provide a platform for Vietnamese youths to get a deeper understanding about traditional culture while getting access to international culture, thus encouraging their creativity and love for the arts.
Taking place until November 11, the programme includes exchanges between famous Australian musical artists and Vietnamese students; a concert entitled ‘The Road I Took’; and an art show titled ‘ARTsical Jam Edition’.
Of which, the ‘The Road I Took’ concert, scheduled to take place at the Friendship Palace in Hanoi on November 7, will entertain the audience with classic melodies, from the poignant Stars in Les Misérables to the enchanting Pretty Women from Sweeney Todd, both of which have played a significant role in establishing the reputation of acclaimed Australian actor and singer Philip Quast.
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| Programme provides art space to bring youths together (Source: baohungyen.vn) |
The concert will also feature talented collaborators Anne Maree McDonald and Nicholas Gentile, alongside passionate young artists from the Interstellar musical community.
This event presents a unique opportunity for the Australian artist to share his life stories and valuable experiences with young Vietnamese people, inspiring them with insights from his remarkable career./.