World cultural and natural heritage

1. Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago The Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago boasts limestone islands and lush islands, creating its unique natural charm. Photo by VnExpress/Tran Dat On September 16, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee added the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago to its list of world natural heritage sites. This latest recognition brings Vietnam's tally to three natural heritages, five cultural heritages, and a mixed natural and cultural property. According to the Department of Cultural Heritage, the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago earned UNESCO recognition due to its natural beauty, which includes limestone islands cloaked in foliage and limestone peaks rising above sea level. The area's vistas, featuring lush islands, saltwater lakes, and limestone cliffs, contribute to its unique appeal. 2. Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay itself has received UNESCO accolades twice before. In 1994, it was designated … [Read more...] about Vietnam’s 9 UNESCO world heritage sites

The site in Phetchabun province - some 200 kilometers (120 miles) north of Bangkok - is Thailand's first cultural site to be recognized by UNESCO since 1992. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked the UN cultural body for the decision but an expert warned the complex is not ready for an influx of tourists. Archaeologists date the statues and buildings of Si Thep, built by the Dvaravati civilisation, to between 1,500 and 1,700 years ago. At its peak the town was a thriving cultural and trading metropolis that celebrated Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. The decision was announced by UNESCO at a meeting in Riyadh, and in a prepared video message, Srettha thanked delegates for the listing. Si Thep was "a treasure not only for people all over the world, but for people of all generations," he said. "I look forward to welcoming you all to the site." Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, minister of natural resources and environment, said it was a "proud moment" for his country. Speaking at … [Read more...] about Thailand’s ancient town of Si Thep added to world heritage list

The iconic Trong Mai (Rooster and Hen) Islet is among thousands of limestone islands and islets in Ha Long Bay. (Photo: vov.vn) Quang Ninh (VNS/VNA) - Authorities at the UNESCO -recognised heritage Ha Long Bay have been conducting solutions to preserve the natural wonder of thousands limestone islands and islets, forming the spectacular seascape of the property. However, after millions of years of formation, a multitude of limestone islands and towering limestone pillars rising from the sea now are at the risk of collapse and landslides. According to Vice Chairman of Van Chai Ha Long Tourism Service Cooperative, Vu Van Hung, the landslides on the bay often occur in the rain and storm seasons. With years of experience, he and other peers in the cooperative can recognise some signs of landslide. “Whenever we pass by an island or islet, if we noticed any unusual signs, we will report to the bay’s management board and the board will have prompt handling,” he said. Pham … [Read more...] about Ha Long Bay works hard to ease landslide risk on limestone islands

Ha Long Bay in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh ranked first on the list of 16 must-visit wonders in Southeast Asia compiled by the UK-based travel magazine Wanderlust. (Photo: VietnamPlus) Hanoi (VNA) – The UK-based travel magazine Wanderlust has named Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, Hoi An ancient city, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park among 16 must-visit UNESCO wonders in Southeast Asia. world heritage site , ranked first on the list. Ancient tiled roofs in Hoi An ancient city. (Photo: VietnamPlus) The ancient town of Hoi An in central Vietnam is placed sixth on the list. "Far removed from the fogs of exhaust that envelop many a visit to Southeast Asia, UNESCO-listed Hoi An is a quiet, sculpted riposte to the pace of modern Vietnamese life," Wanderlust described. "It wasn’t always the case, though. The city was once a thriving port town and home to merchants from across Asia until the Thu Bon River silted up some 200 years ago and the traders moved on … [Read more...] about Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Phong Nha-Ke Bang named must-visit sites

The travel news site Reisereporter has just published an article that highlights some of the famous tourist destinations and landscapes in Vietnam, including Hanoi. In the article titled “Vietnam: You shouldn’t miss these sights”, www.reisereporter.de suggests tourists to visit some hidden "treasures" and undiscovered natural wonders in this wonderful country in the Southeast Asia region, in addition to popular tourist attractions. A Vietnamese girl in her charming ao dai (long dress) and non la (conical hat) walks through the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Photo: Yeu Ha Noi According to Daniel Schramm, staff writer for www.reisereporter.de , Vietnam is a fascinating destination with a wide variety of sights and experiences. From historic cities like Hanoi and Hue to stunning natural landscapes like Halong Bay and Sapa to culinary adventures in street kitchens and markets, the country offers something for every taste. Vietnam's … [Read more...] about German press: Vietnam is a fascinating travel destination

While discrimination remains a barrier for the LGBT community around the world, four destinations in Vietnam have just been recognized as friendly to this community. Vietnam is one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage and recognized transgender rights in 2015. This has demonstrated the government's openness and helped Vietnam become an attractive market for the LGBT community . Vietnam has always been friendly to the LGBTIQ+ community. Everyone should be free to be themselves, no matter who they are, where they live, and who they love. Photo: Adrian Anh Tuấn As part of its mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, no matter who they love or how they identify, and in celebration of Pride 2023, Booking.com is highlighting four LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in Vietnam. From vibrant capital cities to tropical beach retreats, these havens encourage LGBTQ+ travelers to express themselves freely. Cam Ranh … [Read more...] about Friendly LGBT community destinations in Vietnam

The Global Intentions Study 2023 surveys more than 40,000 consumers globally across 37 markets on their recent travel in the past 12 months and intention to travel in the next 12 months. The study fieldwork was conducted from April 2023 to June 2023. Vietnam, a country of vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has become a favoured destination for travellers from across the globe. As the world transitions into a new era of post-pandemic exploration, understanding the changing trends in the Vietnamese travel landscape is crucial for travellers and industry stakeholders. “For more than a decade, the Global Travel Intentions Study has equipped Visa and its partners, in Vietnam and worldwide, with unparalleled insights on the travel and payment landscape. This invaluable knowledge allows operators in the industry to plan and execute effective strategies to satisfy consumer demands and grow their businesses, and reinforces Visa’s commitment to creating a cashless … [Read more...] about Visa study shed lights on Vietnam travel trends