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Da Lat is named among cheapest destinations for end-of-year holidays in Asia
(Source: VOV) |
According to the list, Da Lat ranked fourth in the region and was the top destination in Vietnam.
Agoda said that travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodation options for Christmas and New Year’s Eve have a wide selection of destinations throughout Asia to choose from, with Da Lat being the most affordable destination in the country with an average room rate of US$62 per night.
“As Christmas and New Year's Eve approach, Da Lat transforms into a festive haven, with twinkling lights and joyful celebrations, creating an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories,” it noted.
The digital travel platform also suggested that December represents an ideal time for an unforgettable end-of-year vibe in the city thanks to its cooler mountain air.
Elsewhere, Hat Yai of Thailand led the way as the most affordable on average in Asia with an average room rate of US$46 per night, a key factor in making it the top choice for cost-conscious travelers in late December.
It was followed by Surakarta of Indonesia, Varanasi of India, Miri of Malaysia, Subic of the Philippines, Taitung of Taiwan (China), Nagoya of Japan, and Yeosu-si of the Republic of Korea.
Foreign media impressed with Vietnamese waterlily harvest
According to VOV, there’s nothing quite like watching the local waterlily harvest in the Mekong Delta, particularly as farmers and locals still gather the flowers whilst on wooden boats, with this ritual also turning into a photo op, according to the New York Times of the United States.
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| When the delta floods every fall, typically for several weeks between August and November, the waterlily harvest becomes a popular photo op for tourists. (Photo courtesy of George Steinmetz) |
The lotus may be the national flower of Vietnam but, in the country’s Mekong Delta region it is the waterlily, a similar though unrelated plant, which is able to draws crowds of visitors to witness its harvest each fall.
For several weeks between August and November, depending on the intensity of that year’s monsoons, both farmers and other locals, mostly women, wade through the murky shallows at dawn in order to collect the flowers, the US newspaper wrote.
The writer Jess McHugh shared that over the years, the harvest ritual and the spectacle of the women paddling boats laden with waterlilies has become a popular photo op and a staple of guided tours, although the flowers themselves remain an intrinsic part of everyday life.
The blossoms serve to decorate homes throughout the country and are often seen floating in clay pots on doorsteps, while the stems are mainly used in fish soups and stir-fries, he added.
Quang Ninh aims to welcome 19 million visitors this year
The northern province of Quang Ninh plans to deploy a series of tourism stimulus activities from November 20 until the end of the year as part of efforts to fulfil the goal of receiving 19 million visitors, reported VOV.
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| Quang Ninh aims to welcome 19 million visitors this year (Source: VOV) |
The stimulus programme themed "Quang Ninh - Four-season destination" is being co-organised by the Quang Ninh Department of Tourism, the Quang Ninh Tourism Association, and Sun Group Corporation.
Accordingly, a discount of up to 50% will be applied to a wide range of tourism products and services while several beaches on Ha Long Bay such as Soi Sim, Hang Co, and Trinh Nu will be put into operation along with several art performances.
Statistics indicated that during the 10-month period, the locality welcomed 16.8 million tourists, including more than three million international visitors.
Notably, Ha Long International Cruise Port in Quang Ninh province recently received a cruise ship from Beihai City of Guangxi in China, carrying with it nearly 1,200 foreign visitors to the locality.
Nguyen Ha Hai, director of Hon Gai Tourism & Services Joint Stock Company, said this is a positive sign for the tourism market between the two countries, adding that the resumption of the maritime route will further contribute to promoting tourism in the two localities.
The cruise tourism product will also help Ha Long city to receive further Chinese tourists whilst bringing more tourist groups from Vietnam to the Chinese market moving forward, Hai noted.
Vietnamese culture promoted in Laos
The women's association under the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted tea party in Vientiane on November 19, bringing together female diplomats, spouses of diplomats, and representatives from international organisations in the country, reported VNA.
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| Vietnamese booth at the event (Photo: VNA) |
Joining the event, Vietnamese representatives, dressed in traditional Ao dai (long dress), introduced Vietnam's history and culture through music, dance, and traditional dishes.
The Vietnamese booth highlighted the culinary and cultural essence of Hanoi and Vietnam as a whole, captivating the audience and strengthening cultural diplomacy.
The event featured traditional Lao and international performances, along with a display of crafts and food, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for visitors.
Held annually, it serves as a platform for female diplomats and spouses to share experiences, foster solidarity, and showcase their nations' unique cultural heritage.
Alouni Kommasith, spouse of Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, noted the importance of such gathering, especially as Laos successfully chaired the ASEAN Summits and related meetings this year.
She thanked all participants and ASEAN partners for their contributions to these achievements, emphasising the critical role of women in diplomacy.
Da Nang to host New Year Festival to attract tourists
The central city of Da Nang will host its first-ever Christmas and New Year Festival 2025 from December 14 to January 2, featuring unique cultural and entertainment activities to create a memorable experience for locals and tourists, reported VNA.
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| Da Nang to host New Year Festival to attract tourists (Photo: https://baotainguyenmoitruong.vn) |
Key events will be held at three main locations, including areas around the Dragon Bridge’s east and west banks and Tran Hung Dao park. Highlights include vibrant photo spots with a giant lighted Christmas tree, a festive gift box installation, and colorful New Year signs.
Especially, a Santa parade will take place on December 20 evening, starting from Bach Dang pedestrian street, leading to the illuminated christmas tree. Meanwhile, a Christmas market at Tran Hung Dao park will showcase handcrafted goods, local one-commune, one product (OCOP) products, and Vietnamese and international cuisine. Visitors have also a chance to enjoy workshops for crafting cards, candles, and wreaths.
Additionally, street performances, youth art shows, and cultural events like river dances and traditional music will enliven the city throughout the festival.
Local businesses will join in the festive spirit with themed decorations and special promotions, aiming to attract more visitors and enhance Da Nang's appeal as a holiday destination.
Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Tourism Nguyen Thi Hoai An expressed her hope that the festival will become an annual event, spreading warmth and joy as the city welcomes 2025 with vibrancy and success./.