Hue

Hue is considered as a romantic city of Vietnam. As the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty. Considered the cradle of the pure Vietnamese. That's reason why Hue attracts huge number of domestic tourist yearly.

Located north of Hai Van Pass and lay back to the majestic Truong Son mountain range. But Hue is smoother because the river flows through the city. Each meter of land here has great historical value, each wall will tell you the story of an ancient feudal. 

Hue was recognized as a UNESCO world heritage in 1993, including the material heritage such as the Forbidden City, tombs, temples and neck. In addition there are special cultural values ​​such as music, food, festivities will make visitors curious about this land

                              

What to see in Hue? Imperial citadel

The construction of the moated citadel, which has a 9,950m-long perimeter, was begun in 1805 on the northern bank of the Perfume River by King Gia Long. The Citadel was originally made of earth, but between 1818 and 1832 it was paved with a 2m-thick layer of bricks in the style of the French architect Vauban. The King’s official functions were carried out in the Imperial Enclosure, a citadel-within-a-citadel with a perimeter of 2,450m. The Imperial Enclosure has 4 gates, the most famous of which is Ngo Mon Gate (or Southern Gate) used as the main entrance. Within the Imperial Enclosure is the Forbidden Purple City, which used to be the living quarters of the King. With more than 100 buildings such palaces, temples, fortresses, etc., the Citadel is the most interesting place to visit in Hue.

Museum of Royal Relics

The beautiful hall that houses the Museum of Royal Relics was built in 1845 and restored when the museum was founded in 1923. This is a precious wooden construction of Hue’s unique palace architectonics. The house was built after “trung thiem diep oc” model (sloping successive roofs) with 128 pillars. The first sight catching visitors’ eyes is the walls inscribed with 1,000 poems written in chu nom – Vietnamese script. Most of the exhibits displayed here bear characteristics left by the last Vietnamese feudal dynasty. Here visitors can find the everyday utensils (such as clothing, sedans, gongs, etc.) of the King and the royal family and other aesthetics decorative works in the palaces of Hue. The museum is located at 3 Le Truc St. and open daily from 6.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Royal tombs

There are eight royal tombs in Hue that are the final resting places of the Nguyen kings. Among them, Tu Duc Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb and Minh Mang Tomb are often visited. The construction of each tomb was very meticulous and usually started while the reigning king was still alive. Most of the tombs face the south-west, the direction of the Imperial City. Although all are unique in structure and design, most of them consist of two compounds. The first is reserved for funeral services and the second is the tomb proper. Generally, each tomb is enclosed by a surrounding rampart. However, the internal configuration of each tomb is different, since these particular arrangements reflected the tastes and personality of the monarch. The tombs are open from 6.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. daily (from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter).

King Tu Duc's Tomb

7km far from Hue city, King Tu Duc’s Tomb is surrounded by a brick wall. Tu Duc was the fourth king of Nguyen Dynasty. He had his tomb constructed in 1848 when he was still on the throne. The tomb was built according to the plan based on two axes: one for the mausoleum and another for the palace. The tomb comprises of an important number of buildings, man-made ponds full of nenuphars and lotuses, crossed by various bridges and covered by frangipanniers. This is one of the most romantic and splendid masterpieces.

King Khai Dinh's Tomb

Khai Dinh is the twelfth king of Nguyen Dynasty and he is also the father of King Bao Dai, the last king of Vietnam. The construction of the tomb started from 1920 to 1931. The conception of its architecture and decoration got the European influence. The multi-colored ceramic inlaid style makes his mausoleum gracious and magnificent.

King Minh Mang's Tomb

12km far from Hue city, King Ming Mang’s Tomb is located on the left branch of the Perfume river. The tomb was built as the plan drawn out by the king himself and the middle of the pine forest. The construction started in 1841 after the king's death. The palace, the pavilions and the entrances are harmoniously built around two big lakes that make these more luxurious and peaceful.

Dong Ba Market

Located on the southeastern corner of Hue Citadel, Dong Ba market has been one of the most famous commercial centers in Vietnam for more than 100 years. Built in 1899 and then destroyed in 1968, the market was rebuilt on an area of 5 ha in 1986. Up to now, all the typical features of a traditional Vietnamese market are still there such as the sampan landing, the bus station and the bazaars. Dong Ba market is a paradise for snapshots of daily activities as well as for shopping with everything from souvenir items to bronze goods, Hue sesame sweetmeat, conical poem hats, etc.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, was originally founded in 1601 by Lord Nguyen Hoang. This pagoda, built on a hillock overlooking the Perfume River, is one of the most famous architectural structures in Vietnam. The most striking feature of the pagoda is the 21m-high octagonal tower, the seven-storey Phuoc Duyen Tower. The tower was built by King Thieu Tri in 1844 and has become the unofficial symbol of Hue. Lying on Ha Khe Hill, 7km from Hue, the pagoda can be reached either by car or by boat. Visitors often come here late in the afternoon in order to enjoy sunset on the Perfume River and to attend the daily prayer service at 5 p.m.

Garden houses

Hue owes its beauty not only to the Perfume River, Mount Ngu Binh and royal mausoleums but also to garden houses. This kind of house is a prominent feature of Hue. Each garden house has an area of about 2,000m2. In front of the house, there is always a tile-covered gate. Around the house is a garden with all kinds of fruit and flowers. The highlight in a garden house is a small rock-garden which is an artificial wood and mountain made of rock, water and plants. The house and the garden, the people and the landscape, etc. all blend harmoniously in a colorful atmosphere. All shows the love for nature of the owners, which is one of Hue people’s characteristics. Visitors can visit some garden houses such as Lac Tinh Vien (65 Phan Dinh Phung St.), Princess Ngoc Son (29 Nguyen Chi Thanh St.), Y Thao (3 Thach Han), etc.

Perfume River

A visit to Hue would not be complete without a boat excursion on the Perfume River (Song Huong). This 100km-long river owes its name to the fact that it flows through many forests of aromatic plants before reaching Hue, bringing with it fragrances of tropical flora. A boat cruise will offer visitors a general view of the daily life of Hue people. When night falls, the surface of the river glistens under the moonlight and the folk melodies of Hue make the lovely river even more poetic and musical. It is said that Hue is peaceful and tranquil mostly thanks to the Perfume River.

Hai Van Pass

In Vietnamese, Hai Van Pass means the pass of ocean clouds. It is located on Highway 1 between Danang and Hue. One can see a spectacular stretch of scenery here where mountains seem to fall into the sea. In the past, Hai Van Pass has been the site of a historic seesaw struggle between several nations in the region (Kingdoms of Champa, Vietnam, Laos, etc.).

Bach Ma National Park

Just 45km south of Hue, Bach Ma National Park is home to old French hill station. Established in mid 1998, the park covers a rolling mountainous area of 22,030 ha. The forest, in addition to its indigenous flora, also has various species of plant originating in both the north and the south. Visitors can find exciting trekking routes and romantic hotels in this area.

How to get to Hue?

There are 02 flights from Hanoi and Saigon depart and arrive in Hue daily. Number of trains stop in Hue on the way to Saigon or Hanoi. Getting to Hue from Hoi An you can take local bus or book a private transfer from us at very compatitive price and comfort ride. Our train ticketting service is also available. 

Where to eat?

Hue's cuisine is a big part of Hue's culture, known for its royal cuisine, a stunning presentation and picky food. Besides the luxury, there are many other rustic cuisine, like its cake, rice flour, or Hue's deserts. Hue cuisine is very little, light, you won't feel heavy stomach. Walk around town or along the river, you will see a lot of the restaurants that full of traditional dishes of Hue. Here are some to recommend to you:

Truong Dinh Mussel Rice (Com Hen) - 01 Truong Dinh - Hue City

Royal Cuisine (Com Vua) - 20/3 Le Thanh Ton - Hue City

Hue Pancake (Banh Khoai) - 06 Dinh Tien Hoang - Hue City

Hue Desert (Che Hue) - 29 Hung Vuong - Hue City

Vietnamese businesses win European award

The three Vietnamese businesses that received the International European Award for Quality from the Global Trade Leaders’ Club were honoured at a ceremony in Madrid, Spain, on May 28. 

                                    

The businesses are the International Dairy Products JSC, the Vietnam Plant Oil and Food Processing Company and the Chupah Rubber Company. 

When speaking at the ceremony, Ricardo Roso Lopez, the club’s General Secretary and Managing Director, praised the Vietnamese products that are currently available in the European and world markets. 

He said he hoped that even more Vietnamese businesses will receive the award in the future. 

Along with the Vietnamese businesses, 30 others from countries across the world including Brazil , Nigeria , Malaysia , Mozambique and Angola also received the award. 

The annual award is voted for by the club’s members to recognise businesses that produce good quality products that are popular with consumers. 

Since its inception in 1978, the club has organised various business forums and seminars on trade promotion to help its members seek out new partners and opportunities.-VNA

Da Lat

                                     

Overview

Da Lat can be considered as Sa Pa in South of Vietnam. There are many similarities between Da Lat and Sapa, similar in height, the ethnic minority groups, and climate along a popular destination for tourists. But there is a difference, Da Lat is the destination of romance while Sapa is known for adventurous travelers. Location of 1500m above the sea level, Da Lat has a cool climate year around. People can find 4 season changing in one day here. Da Lat is city of flowers, there are lot of flower plantation in this hill station. Like Sapa, Dalat architecture influenced by French architecture, the church in the center and many of the visual range of villas located in the city. Therefore, for Vietnamese travelers, Da Lat is the ideal destination for their honeymoon vacation.

Getting to Da Lat

There are number of flight from main cities to Da Lat. Lien Khuong airport is about 35km from the city and you can take shuttle bus to Da Lat central. If you choose overland option. We recommend you take open bus from Saigon or Nha Trang. That will be more comfortable than local bus. Private bus cost higher but secure your stops and comfort. 

Da Lat Sight Seeings

There are lot of places to see in Da Lat that you can make as one full day tour including Bao Dai villa, Crazy House, Cam Ly waterfall and don't forget a romantic place of Valley of Love! viet Value Travel offers wide range of tours to and in Da Lat for family and couples. 

Where to eat in Da Lat

Food in Da Lat is quite expensive compare to other cities. Reason would be the distance. Da Lat is out of the main national highway, transport is an issue that make cost of living here higher than deltas. Below are some good restaurant you may try while traveling to Da Lat:

Thuy Ta Restaurant - Ho Xuan Huong Street: Perfect location that facing to central lake of Xuan Huong.

Trong Dong Restaurant - 220 Phan Dinh Phung Street: Authentic Vietnamese food and local specialty.

Ceiling Medallion

                                        

Ceiling medallion is nothing but an oval or circular design feature that is used in modern architecture for decorating purposea. Ceiling medallions that originated in the Middle East are one of the easiest ways of transforming a room from an ordinary room to an elegant room. Ceiling medallions today as a part of modern architecture serves the purpose of a decorative treatment to the ceiling of a house that helps draw attention to its lighting features. Ceiling medallions highlight the areas holding the chandelier. Ceiling medallions help in expanding the visual height of a room and can also help highlight regular light fixtures. You have a variety of designs and patterns in which ceiling medallions are available. These are easy to fix and can also be painted to match the colour of the room ceiling. These can be easily fixed to the ceiling with glue or drywall screws. Ceiling medallions are not expensive giving you an opportunity to use them all around the house. Glance through the tips on installing ceiling medallions and save yourself the cost of hiring a professional to do the job.

Order Materials

Once you have decided on installing a medallion, it is time to order for the materials required. Do not forget to order the ceiling medallion centre while placing orders for other material. Construction adhesive, caulk, fasteners and light fixture hardware are some of the items you need to purchase for the purpose.

Assemble Materials

Once you have the required material at your disposal, start assembling the material closer to the place of installation. Make it a point to double check for everything you need to install a medallion before you start fixing it.

Clean The Ceiling

The next step in installation of a medallion is to clean the ceiling area you are planning to install the medallion in. You will have to turn of the main power switch and remove the old fixture. Make use of dishwashing soap and sponge to clean the ceiling around the old fixture location in order to get rid of dust, dirt and debris. Scrape out any chipped paint or caulk from the old fixture with a knife if necessary.

Layout

Once the old fixture is removed and the area is clean, it is time to layout the area you're looking to fix the medallion in. Hold the medallion to position and mark the dimensions on the ceiling. These markings will help you locate and mark ceiling joists in case you are using screws to mount the medallion.

Dry Fit The Assembly

After marking the position for the layout, hold the medallion in place to spot the centre over the electrical box. Place it in a way that helps you access the wires and help you screw holes for the hanging hardware through the hole. You can enlarge the hole with the help of sandpaper if necessary.

Apply Adhesive

Apply the adhesive you bought according to the manufacturer's directions. You might have to make use of temporary clamps or fasteners to secure the medallion on the fixed spot until the adhesive sets properly.

Fasten The Medallion

After securing the medallion with the help of adhesive, it is time to fasten it to the ceiling using coated screws in the predrilled holes. You can make use of toggle bolts if you find it difficult to screw holes directly into the ceiling joists.

Finish Up

Once the adhesive dries out, chalk out the perimeter. Make use of no-shrink spackles to join plaster to patch screw holes. You can paint the area, fill it up with patches and carry on with any other repair work if necessary.

Outdoor and Indoor Decor Deals- Decorative Lighting Enhances All Rooms

Decorative lighting is a great way to spruce up any space. Decorative lighting can be used both outdoor and indoor, and works well with any decor. Decorative lighting works on two levels. Decorative lighting helps add a sense of dimension to any room, and its surrounding landscape. Aesthetically, decorative lighting adds an ornamental element to the room. Decorative lights can either be wall-mounted or pole-mounted, depending on where they are installed.

                                 

Here are a few basic questions you should ask yourself when designing a lighting concept:

How big is the room? It is extremely important to understand how the lighting will affect the mood and atmosphere of the room.

What is atmosphere I want to create? For example, a reading room would only need moderate lighting in appropriate areas to create a cozy environment. It is important to know whether you are aiming to simply light up the entire room, or perhaps trying to accent an area or object.

The lights that you purchase to light up your house need to serve both purposes of adding to the decor and lighting the spaces in your home. Think about how your windows are positioned, and what direction the sun will enter the room.

If you are trying to create a comfortable and intimate setting, you’ll want to aim for gentle light on a dining room table. This type of lighting will serve to illuminate the food and create a more flattering environment.

Decorative lighting is a great way to add decor to your home in a practical way.

Decorative Lighting

Using decorative lighting is another way of enhancing the beauty and character of the house. Earlier on lighting was done from the functional point of view. Today homeowners want their lighting fixtures both interior and exterior to make a statement. More so the interior lighting. They select interior lighting fixtures to match the rest of the Decor. Decorating homes with elegant and tasteful light fixtures is a must these days. Decorative home lighting fixtures come in different shapes, sizes, finishes and materials. There are a wide variety of finishes to choose from. Some of the most popular ones are: 

Lamps that have a brushed nickel, stainless steel and copper finish, have become popular displacing the old favorite that was brass finished. These new finishes easily blend with the multi-colored Decor of modern houses. 

Some lamps are finished in different colors and the consumer can choose one that exactly matches his needs. These are painted and may be textured or have silver and gold flecks. 

Another much in demand finish to the one that gives an antique and timeless look. This finish gives the lamps a very conventional look. 

Today a lot of attention is paid to detailing. Every aspect of the lamp is made decorative that gives the fixture more style and elegance. 

                                              

The market flooded with a variety of decorative lighting fixtures. Selecting ones that are both functional and decorative can be a difficult task. Here are a few tips that to follow while choosing decorative lights: 

Employ a certified lighting consultant. He will help you find lamps that are functional and decorative. 

It you have a picture, of what the lighting fixture should look like, take it with you while shopping for fixtures. 

Plan a budget and decide by how much, you are willing to exceed that budget, for something you really want. 

While buying lighting fixtures for rooms bring something that matches the color of the walls. This will make it easier to find lights that match the rest of the Decor. 

If you are looking for something specific and cannot find it, then you can get it specially made to order. 

While buying decorative lighting fixtures do not forget the practical purpose of lighting the room.

Sa Pa

Overview

Sapa - A small town in Lao Cai province bordering with China to the North. Located at an altitude of 1700m above the sea level, Sapa has a cool climate all year round. In recent years, Sa pa even has snow, a phenomenon that is considered rare in tropical regions such as Vietnam.

                               

Sa Pa is also known as a cultural and adventure tourism since 1990s, after Vietnam to open tourism for foreign visitors. With beauty and unique indigenous culture, Sa Pa fast becoming popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.

Going to Sapa, people are more thinking of the minority people, there are many ethnic groups such as H'mong, Red Zao, Xa Pho, Man ... in which the Hmong and Red Zao majority of all. The daily activities of people still take place regularly everyday, although more or less affected by tourism, but generally Sapa still regarded as one of the raw place to explore.

First of all, Sapa need at least 3 days 3 nights to travel from Hanoi. It takes you 2 nights on the train already. Make sure you manage your time well in advance in case of miss to see things after a long trip to get up here.

People used to take a long ride from Hanoi to Sapa in the past, trip takes more than 10 hours with bad road condition. Now, it's much easier for travelers from Hanoi. There are number of overnight trains to Sapa, depart from Hanoi around 9pm and arrive in Lao Cai next morning at 5am. 

From Lao Cai, you have options to take local bus up to Sapa which takes 1 and half hours. Trip cost around few dollars. Someone call their hotel or travel agency for transfer service. That will save time and make your trip a bit easier. 

What to see in Sapa?

It just take couple of hours to explore all conners of Sapa town. However, the charming of Sapa is villages in surroundings. People could have a long hiking along river to further villages upto 50km away from Sapa town or simply visit Cat Cat or Ta Phin village which doable in few hours. Here are our suggestion list:

Cat Cat Village

The nearest village to Sapa town, it is home of Black H'mong people. Cat Cat in H'mong language means 'Waterfall', the one that you can see when you walk down to the end of Cat Cat village. French built a Hydro electricity in Cat Cat to supply to Sapa town in early 1930s. It is easy to find and you can walk there by your own. From Sapa market, there is the one and only way to go down to Cat Cat. Cat Cat is must see village absolutely worth for few hours.

Ta Van Homestay

Homestay is best way to understand local cultures. There are number of sites in Sapa have lisence for this service. However, Ta Van village is good place to experience. Ta Van located on the bank of Golden River, back to Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It is nice position gains Ta Van a stunning view down to the valley. 

Thac Bac (Silver waterfall) 

12km from Sapa, Silver waterfall is a highest waterfall in Sapa at 200m high. It combines with forest and hairpin road underneath that make a nice scenery for visitors. Travel further up, you will reach to Heaven Gate, the highest point in Sapa - 1900m. People often hire a Jeep or catch a motor taxi to those places.

Fansipan Mountain

The loop of Indochina at 3143m above the sea level, the recommended trip for adventure travellers. You must get a lisence for climb that can be arranged at Sapa tourism administration or local agency in town. There are 2 routes to summit the roof, one depart from Cat Cat village that takes 4 days all together, other from Heaven Gate just take 2 days trip in total. 

Viet Value Travel arranges trips to Sapa with packages from Hanoi including Bac Ha sunday market, Fansipan Mountain trek, homestay and surrounding areas. 

Cu Chi

Overview

Cu Chi Tunnel was first built during French war with started digging length about 50km complex network. It has however known during Vietnam war and widen to over 200km with fuctions of battle field, accommodation, hospital and be able to serve thousands of villagers. American found the tunnel around 1965 and used lots of way for destruction but no success. Cu Chi Tunnel nowadays became a must see place for travellers from Ho Chi Minh city.

                                  

Travel to Cu Chi Tunnel

Located about 50km West of Ho Chi Minh city, Cu Chi tunnel can be reached by local public transport from City center. However, the most popular way is by tour which is easily found on every corners of tourist sites. Cost about 10 USD per person shared tourist bus. Viet Value Travel offers private tours to Cu Chi tunnel everyday from your hotel and drop back to your hotel. 

Sightseeing

A compulsory entrance fee of 80.000 VND (roughly 4 USD) will be charged to visitor. Price included the local guide and a tour around the site. You will get a 15 minutes documentary film of Cu Chi before heading to tunnel. The round tours including some real remained tunnel and you have choice to go inside the tunnels which are widen to tourist. 

Attention

The tunnel complex are widen now for everyone, however, it will not recommended to anyone who has problem with blood pressure, heart problem or 'narrow fear'. Children under 8 year old is also not recommended.

CPA to assist auditing/accounting services in VN

The Association of Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia (CPA Australia) will provide the necessary technical support and know-how to help Vietnam draw up a legal framework for auditing and accounting services in the country that conforms to international practices. 

                                             

An agreement to this effect was signed in Hanoi on May 25 by the Vietnamese Ministry of Finance (MoF) and CPA Australia and many of MoF’s employees will receive scholarships to study in Australia as part of the agreement. 

Vietnam ’s taxation system will be included in CPA’s training programme and the country will also make it easier for CPA Australia members to be awarded auditing certificates, valid for working in Vietnam . 

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Finance Minister Truong Chi Trung said the agreement will assist the development of auditing and accounting services in Vietnam and help MoF to realise its strategy to develop its human resources. 

The CPA Australia’s General Director Alex Malley said that Vietnam ’s growth rate and its integration into the global economy have increased the demand for professional auditors and accountants who are able to work in a dynamic and global environment. 

Having experience in consultancy, legal affairs, auditing and accounting, CPA Australia is ready and able to assist Vietnam , he said. 

The CPA is a 126 year old global professional accounting body with 139,000 members from 114 countries and territories across the world and established representative offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in 2008.-VNA

Folk Paintings

Folk paintings are a combination of traditional cultural values with ancient artistic methods that have been created through the labour of past generations. There are two types of Vietnamese folk paintings, Tet (Lunar New Year Festival) paintings and worshipping paintings. 

The Vietnamese believe in ancestor worship and the deification of natural phenomena, both of which are reflected in the paintings. 

                                              

Due to their historical popularity, the folk paintings were produced in large quantities. This high demand was met through the use of the woodblock carving printing technique, which has been practiced by the Vietnamese for many centuries. During the Ly Dynasty (12th century), there were many families who specialised in woodblock carving. By the end of the Tran Dynasty, they were also printing paper money. At the beginning of the Le So Dynasty, the Chinese technique of carving printing boards was adopted and improved. The History Museum and the Fine Art Museum in Hanoi still keep old printing boards as archives. 

During the Mac Dynasty (16th century), folk paintings developed quite extensively and were popular among the aristocracy in Thang Long. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the art of folk painting was stable and highly developed. 

Depending on artistic style, drawing-printing technique, and the materials used, folk paintings are classified into painting trends according to the name of their place of production. 

Each style of painting is different. However, in all the styles, shapes are created based on the concept of don tuyen binh do (single line-simple designs), which uses lines to bend the coloured shapes and to make a border for the picture. Another method used is thuan tay hay mat (easy to draw and to see). With this design form, the folk paintings do not depend on the rules of perspective. The deities are large and take the upper positions, while the ordinary people are drawn on a smaller scale and the size of the animals and the natural scenery depicted depends on their relationship to the sentiment or story being expressed. These unique characteristics make the paintings profoundly impressive. 

As a result of cultural exchange, Vietnamese folk paintings have retained and developed certain traditional aspects. As well, the paintings have been influenced and enriched by the genius of other painting styles. One exception is Dong Ho paintings, which continue to exist unchanged against the challenges of time. 

Dong Ho Paintings 

These paintings which originated in the Red River Delta, are the most famous. The artists coat do paper (the Rhamnoneuron paper) with diep powder (a white powder made from the shells of diep, a kind of fluvial bivalve mollusk) to make silver lustre glitter. Sometimes yellow flower powder called Hoa hoe or orange-red sapandwood powder is used to make the colours more elegant and shiny. 

                                              

On that background, the colours are applied with a woodblock. Some of the paintings only have simple black lines, while others are printed with one other colour. All of the materials for creating the colours for these paintings come from nature. A wide spectrum of colours can be made using mixing and multi-coloured printing techniques. 

Dong Ho paintings reflect people’s innermost feelings, wishes, and simple dreams. Because the paintings appeal to so many people, they are available throughout the country, from the village markets to the capital city. 

Hang Trong Paintings 

                                              

Hang Trong paintings are also printed with black lines to form the basis for the colour. But, unlike Dong Ho paintings, they are made by hand. Large sheets of imported paper and brightly coloured paints are used for Hang Trong paintings. The content of these paintings are very much influenced by Chinese drawings.

Hang Trong paintings are popular as worshipping paintings in temples. As such, the paintings are often hung in spacious living rooms or in holy places.

Hang Trong paintings have traditionally served the poorer classes and are made and sold in the capital city. 

Kim Hoang Paintings 

Kim Hoang paintings, which are often called red paintings, are made on the outskirts of ancient Thang Long. Kim Hoang paintings are printed and drawn on imported coloured paper (yellow, bright red, pink) and printed with black lines and shapes; other colours used to separate the shapes. 

                                                  

The colours are applied in rough, but flexible lines. Sometimes, the paintings are reprinted to create clear line. The colours used for Kim Hoang paintings are bought and then mixed by the painters, except for indigo, which is self-processed. The themes of Kim Hoang paintings are similar to those of the Dong Ho paintings, but there are also Chinese character paintings Phuc, Loc, Tho (meaning “Happiness”, “Good Luck”, and “Longevity” respectively), that have the typical flower of each season printed next to each character.

Sinh Village Paintings 

Sinh Village Paintings, which come from Sinh Village, a suburb of Hue City, are well-known in the central region of Vietnam. Most Sinh Village paintings are used for worship, and they express the mystical, nature-based beliefs of the ancient Vietnamese.

Among these pictures is the Tuong Ba (Statue of the Lady) painting, the guardian angel of women. Sinh paintings are made using just one printing-board to create the drawing lines and black shapes. After being printed in black, the work is sometimes completed with embellishments made with colourful lines. Some paintings are still printed on rustic paper.

Ho Chi Minh City Shopping (Part 2)

Clothing Shops in Ho Chi Minh

Cashew

Cashew’s collection features young, playful and vibrant fashion for the young and not-so-young urbanites.

Location: 38 Ly Tu Trong, District 1

Tel: +848 668 39 669 

Fashion Café

A themed café showcasing exquisite Vietnamese traditional dresses in a lavish opium den-like setting, have coffee while trying on yem dao (a halter-top bra) or ao dai (girl's tunic).

Location: 115 Ly Tu Trong, District 1

                                     

Khaisilk

Khaisilk is part of a large and successful corporation that started life as a high-class tailor shop. While it is a well-known fashion house among Vietnamese elites and internationally for its ready-to-wear line, Khaisilk will still make clothes to order.

Location: 107 Dong Khoi, District 1

Tel: 848 3829 1146 

                                    

Mai Lam Tailor House

Managed by the young Vietnamese designer Mai Lam, who recreates new and unique fashion from vintage and traditional styles.

Location: 132-134 Dong Khoi, District 1

Tel: +848 3827 2733 

Marathon

There are two locations for this popular beachwear boutique brand offering casual clothes, sandals, sneakers and shoes at reasonable prices.Location: 

147 Bui Vien, District 1, Tel: +848 3920 7442

123A Bui Vien, District 1, Tel: +848 3838 0019 

Minh Hanh

Minh Hanh sells one-off designer fashions, elaborate hats, embroidered scarves and dresses. It’s a favourite of local celebrities as well as foreigners.

Location: 24 Dong Khoi, District 1

Tel: +848 3824 5774 

Minh Khoa

Minh Khoa is known for exquisite cocktail and formal dresses. The talented local designer Minh Khoa will custom-make pieces for any special occasion.

Location: 39 Dong Khoi, District 1

Tel: +848 3823 2302 

                                        

Papaya Tshirts

T-shirts with attitude. Papaya stock a wonderful array of cotton T-shirts all made in Vietnam, and gives part of its profits to charities such as the Endangered Asian Species Trust.

Location: 232 Bui Vien, District 1

Computer Shops in Ho Chi Minh

Nomad

Authorized Apple reseller stocking all of its latest products. Friendly staff.

Location: Ground floor, Kumho Asiana Plaza, 39 Le Duan, District 1

Long Binh Computer

Specializes in PC-type notebooks and desktops and other accessories.

Location: 50 Nguyen Cu Trinh, District 1

Tel: +848 3836 0639 

Shopping Centres in Ho Chi Minh

                                         

Diamond Plaza

The multi-floor Diamond Plaza, in the Central Business District, is where you can find cosmetics, leather goods, ornaments, footwear, fine wooden artworks, clothing by Vietnamese designers and interior decoration materials. There is also a restaurant, a bowling alley, snooker tables and video games.

Tel: +848 822 5500 

                                       

Saigon Duty Free Shop

This store is at 102 Nguyen Hue Blvd in District 1, and specialises in the usual duty-free items such as perfumes and colognes. It is open from Monday to Friday.

Tel: +848 823 4547 

                                      

Saigon Tax Trade Centre (Thuong Xa Tax)

The Tax Department Store is a mall with air conditioning and escalators. It has cheap CDs and DVDs, and other goodies such as lacquer ware, silk scarves and T-shirts, along with a supermarket on the second floor.

Location: 135 Nguyen Hue, District 1

                                     

Vincom Center

A large mall devoted to shopping, food, and entertainment. It has a big game arcade and modern movie theatres.

Location: 70-72 Le Thanh Ton, District 1

Zen Plaza

Modern shopping mall in the city centre. This is where you go to buy Vietnamese designer clothes as well as well-known Western brands. But this is not a place to catch bargains. There are food courts (Pho24 is here too) and a well-stocked photo studio on the 7th floor.

Location: 54-56 Nguyen Trai, District 1

Tel: +848 3925 0339

Ho Chi Minh City Shopping (Part 1)

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a fun place to shop for bargains. Some goods can be unique and fascinating – old propaganda posters, for example; we found one that exhorted people to plant garlic for export.

Clothing includes silks and hand-woven fabrics with a reputation for high quality. Vietnam is also famous for handicrafts including bamboo ware, ceramics and lacquer. There are, too, all the usual holiday souvenirs such as T-shirts and beaded handbags at prices that are hard to beat. 

                                      

Ben Thanh Market

Situated in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, bustling Ben Thanh Market in District 1 is a great place to buy local handicrafts, branded goods, Vietnamese art and other souvenirs. Here, you’ll find eating stalls inside the market where you can get a taste of hawker-style Vietnamese cuisine or simply cool off with a cold drink

                                                    

Art & Craft Shops in Ho Chi Minh City

                                       

Apricot Gallery

Features a range of local artists whose paintings display unmistakably distinctive Vietnamese flavour – idealised landscapes and dreamy portraits in soft hues.

Location: 50-52 Mac Thi Buoi, District 1 

Tel: +848 3822 7062 

                                       

Lac Hong Gallery

The best of Vietnamese fine art finds its home at Lac Hong Gallery (located inside the Ho Chi Minh City Art Museum), which offers a large selection of unique paintings and sculptures from both local masters and up-and-coming artists. A must for any art lover.

Location: 1A Le Thi Hong Gam, District 1 

Tel: +848 3821 3771 

Life Impression

A very special store for modern lacquerware gift items. You will not find traditional Vietnamese lacquerware here as the shop is full of brightly-coloured and funky decorative pieces.

Location: 47 Ton That Thiep, District 1 

Tel: +848 3821 4521 

MH Craft

Go to MH Craft to appreciate the skills and innovation of the Vietnamese craftspeople at turning humble materials such as buffalo horn, bamboo and even eggshells into unique and beautiful decorative items and art.

Location: 33 Ton That Thiep, District 1 

Tel: +848 3821 4459

Continue...

Suggestions

Should not miss...

There are so many choices of activities and services in Vietnam that you may become quite confused about what to do and what to leave for another time. Viet Value Travel would like to list some of the highlight activities that we think you should try while travelling in Vietnam. However, we also understand that everyone has their own ideas, so what we suggest is just that. We look forward to hearing your comments and recommendations to extend this list.

                                            

Having Pho - Noodle soup.

Vietnam's most popular breakfast made from rice and different kinds of herbs. This is not only simple food but also our culture of food - art. Where do you go to try this? Everywhere! Ask your tour guide or any local people and they will show you the one that they normally eat at daily. However, the many Pho 24 or Pho 2000 restaurants are famous with travellers. 

                                               

Cooking class in Hoi An.

If you have been in Vietnam for a few days and decide you love Vietnamese food, try a short demonstration cooking class in Hoian. Mrs. Vy, who owns the Cargo Ship restaurant, can bring you an forgettable class which is a mixture of fun and education. Hai's Scout in Hoi An is another great place to arrange this activity. Enjoy making your own real Vietnamese Spring Rolls. 

                                                 

Homestay in the Mekong Delta.

Viet Value Travel believes the local culture will be best understood if you join local activities. That's why we recommend this action. Many tour operators offer this tour from Saigon (including Viet Value Travel). The best tour is a small private tour and an overnight stay with a small family in Vinh Long or Ben Tre. Big tour groups can damage the meaning of this option. Stay to understand the lovely locals of the Mekong Delta - always selected as the highlight of a Vietnam trip from our past customers.

                                              

Fighting Cu Chi tunnel.

Begun during the French war, Cu Chi was used widely during the more recent Vietnam war. These were hidden tunnels to protect the village people from bombs and fighting. Most now is closed for secturity purpose, however enough is maintained so people still have a great opportunity to see how it was built and its various uses. The highlight of Cu Chi is you can actually crawl through it (if you want to) with a local guide. It will be hot down there but this is the way you understand just a bit about how hard it was for people here who had to live in the tunnels during the actions above. Tour departs from Saigon, and takes about 5 hours in total ( Including transportation time ).

                                          

Perfume River cruise and Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue

The Perfume river was named through a legend of the Nguyen Lord during the feudal period of Vietnam. People said, this Perfume River is Hue's charm. It devides Hue city into two parts, north and south. By cruising on the river you will have a good view into both sides of the city. The cruise starts from the Toa Kham pier by Dragon Boat and its destinations are Imperial tombs, and of course, the Thien Mu pagoda. Thien Mu is the oldest pagoda in Hue, built in 1601 under Nguyen Hoang Lord. It has a great over the Perfume River, but the most interesting part of this pagoda is its atmosphere, so quiet and peaceful.

                                         

Riding Xich Lo ( Rickshaw ) in the Hanoi old quarter

Hanoi's old quarter itself is interesting but riding by Xich Lo to see it is even better. There are plenty of routes to cruise through the 36 old streets. W recommend a 1.5 hour ride to see that special part of Hanoi. Most of Viet Value Travel tours include this experience in their itinerary.

Sit back for water puppet show in Hanoi.

The original Water Puppet shows were created by farmers in the 11th century during flood seasons. Plays are very simple representations of daily activities and something only rarely ever seen out of Vietnam. This is another great chance to understand the Vietnamese 'water-rice' culture. Viet Value Travel includes this show in most of our tours.

                                      

Junk cruise in Halong Bay 

Many people travel to Vietnam just because of Halong Bay. This natural world heritage site atracts millions of visitors per year. It is definitely the most popular destination in Vietnam. A trip to Halong bay is offered by many tour operators in Hanoi. Let's have a nice junk - VietValue's junk - to enjoy this famous spot.

                                           

Visit Sapa homestay

Sapa is in the northwest of Vietnam and is the hometown of many different colorful hilltribe groups. This remote area is highly recommended to adventure travelers especially for trekking and homestay. Quite different from homestay in Mekong Delta, a stay in a local house of one of the people in Sapa is more rustic. Everthing seems to be very simple but what you really get from it is the diversity of the local culture, atmostphere, scenerary and unique hospitality.

Ho Chi Minh City Restaurants

Where and What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

As the center of Vietnam’s business world, Ho Chi Minh City is also home to the largest community of expatriates living and working in Vietnam. This fact, augmented by booming tourism, has resulted in rapid changes to old Saigon.

It is now a city where people can enjoy dining in sophisticated restaurants with delightful surroundings and menus that encompass not only delicious Vietnamese food but also cuisines from around the globe, include French, Indian, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Thai and Chinese. 

                               

Au Lac do Brazil

A heaven for meat lovers, au Lac do Brazil offers a traditional all-you-can-eat Brazilian style barbecue, where the different cuts of meat are served at your table, accompanied by an extensive selection of fine wines.

Location: 238 Pasteur, District 3 

Tel: +848 3820 7157 

Contact: Brazilian barbecue 

Bun Bo Xu

An all-day noodle bar popular with young Vietnamese, Bun Bo Xu is open from early morning until late. Its specialises in Bun Bo Hue, a Hue-style soup with thick rice noodles and pork or beef. 

Address: There are two branches, at 4A Tran Hung Dao, and 28 Cao Ba Quat, District 1

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

                             

Camargue

Camargue is in a beautiful villa with a lovely garden courtyard and attracts diners with its romantic atmosphere. The restaurant’s bar is an ideal spot for a pre-dinner cocktail or two. 

Address: 16 Cao Ba Quat, District 1

Tel: +848 3824 3181 

Cuisine: French 

Cantina Central

Cantina Central is the well known among locals, expats and regular visitors to Saigon for the fresh authenticity of its Mexican food. It also serves the best Margaritas in town, amid attractive, relaxing surroundings. 

Address: 51 Ton That Thiep Street 

Tel: +848 914 4697 

Cuisine: Mexican

Gartenstadt

Gartenstadt serves decent German and European food and stocks a wide selection of imported beers. Perhaps one of the few places in Ho Chi Minh City that serves bratwurst sausages and Wiener schnitzel.

Location: 34D Dong Khoi, Dong Khoi Area 

Tel: +848 3822 3623 

Cuisine: German 

Hoi An

Hoi An serves central Vietnames food in an elegant Chinese-style setting. Try the signature dish of grilled prawns in banana leaf served with lime and salt dipping sauce.

Location: 11 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 

Tel: +848 3823 7694 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

Hong Hai

Hong Hai is famous for Nha Trang style seafood at reasonable price in a garden setting and also a three-level building. From its extensive menu, try specialties such as coconut steamed prawns or grilled prawns with chili salt.

Location: 54 Pham Thach, District 3 

Tel: +848 3829 2977 

Cuisine: Vietnamese seafood 

I Love Bun

A great and fun introduction to the national dish. Bun means noodles in Vietnamese, and I Love Bun features most types of noodle dishes found anywhere in the country. Try noodles in tomato and crabmeat soup or the hearty spicy beef noodle soup.

Location: 73 Ly Tu Trong, District 1 

Tel: +848 6276 2609 

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Kumho Link Food Centre

Kumho Link Food Court was the talk of town when it opened its doors in early 2012. Managed by the celebrity chef Bobby Chinn, Kumho gathers together world cuisine all under one roof, in the comfort of the Asiana Plaza Shopping Center. The standard is somewhat higher than the usual food courts you find throughout SE Asia. Among the flavours featured are: Japanese, Korean, Singapore/Malay, Thai, Vietnamese and European.

Location: 39 Le Duan, District 1 

Cuisine: Asian & European 

                                   

La Cuisine

Reputed to serve the best foie gras in town, La Cuisine prides itself on authentic French cuisine to go with the smart and crisp décor and extensive wine list.

Location: 48 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 

Tel: +848 2229 8882 

Cuisine: French 

                                 

La Habana

La Habana serves over 50 kinds of tapas as well as Cuban cocktails in a cosy setting accompanied by Cuban music, salsa dancing and regular live performances. Free dancing lessons every Tuesday and live music on Fridays.

Location: 6 Cao Ba Quat, District 1 

Tel: +848 3829 5180 

Cuisine: Cuban & Spanish 

                                 

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a sister restaurant of Vietnam House and is just around the corner, in a two-storey French-style building. The place is small but it is considered by many to be one of the best restaurants in town. 

Address: 4 Nguyen Thiep St 

Tel: +848 3822 4005 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

Mumtaz

Located in the heart of the backpackers’ district, this seemingly casual restaurant features a wide selection of Indian fares – Tandoori dishes, tikka masala, and rogan josh are amongst the staples.

Location: 226 Bui Vien, District 1 

Tel: +848 3837 1757 

Cuisine: Indian 

                                     

New York Steakhouse & Winery

This is Ho Chi Minh City’s most venerable steakhouse and offers gourmet beef dishes ranging from rib-eye to New York strip to tenderloin, fastidiously prepared to perfection by a French chef. Extensive wine list. Classy dining with prices to match.

Location: 25-27 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Dakao Ward 

Tel: +848 3823 7373 

Cuisine: International, steakhouse 

Pacharan Tapas & Bodega

Pacharan serves authentic Spanish dishes and tapas. Enjoy imported cheeses, Serrano ham, Galician-style octopus and an assortment of paellas. The restaurant, which is housed on four floors with a rooftop cocktail bar, has a quirky Spanish feel to it and enjoys an extensive wine list featuring Spanish labels.

Location: 97 Hai Ba Trung, District 1 

Tel: +848 3825 6024 

Cuisine: Spanish 

                                        

Pendolasco

Enjoy traditional wood-fired pizzas or hand-made pasta dishes accompanied by excellent ice-cream dessert in a quiet and quaint courtyard. Substantial wine list.

Location: 87 Nguyen Hue, District 1 

Tel: +848 3821 8181 

Cuisine: Italian 

Pho 2000

Pho is a beef noodle soup and this restaurant was made famous by a visit from the former US president Bill Clinton, who dropped by here for a bowl. It is a Vietnamese chain restaurant (60 alone in the country) and the Pho here is no different from what you would find on the street. It is nevertheless a welcoming respite from the bustle and the heat.

Location: 1-3 Phan Chu Trinh 

Tel: +848 3822 2788 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

Pomodoro

Pomodoro is famous for its pizzas and Italian espresso, though the menu also features a good range of vegetarian, fish and meat dishes. Popular both for business lunches and for dining out at night.

Opening Hours: 10:00 to 22:00 

Address: 79 Hai Ba Trung, District 1

Tel: +848 382 38998 

Cuisine: Italian 

Quan An Ngon

Regarded as an institution by the locals, Quan An Ngon serves great Vietnamese food cooked in front of you in a French colonial-inspired setting. Try bahn xeo (crisp pancake filled with pork, shrimps and bean sprouts) or cha tom (shrimp patty).

Location: 138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1 

Tel: +848 3822 2166 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

Temple Club

Housed in an old Chinese temple, with beautiful woodwork and masonry, and a terracotta floor, the Temple Club has a bar, a lounge and a formal dining room with a menu featuring Vietnamese food from all over the country. 

Address: 29-31 Ton That Thiep St, District 1

Tel: +848 3829 9244 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

                                

The Deck Saigon

The Deck Saigon, 15 minutes from the city centre, features elegant yet relaxed riverside dining where you can watch the sun set while sipping designer cocktails. Contact the restaurant if you want to be picked up by boat.

Location: 38 Nguyen U Di, Thao Dien, An Phu, District 2 

Tel: +848 3744 6632 

Cuisine: Vietnamese fusion 

                                 

The Sushi Bar

The Sushi Bar’s spacious and modern décor is a perfect backdrop for fresh sushi and sashimi prepared with fresh ingredients, some of which is flown in daily from Japan.Location: 

The Sushi Bar 1: 2 Le Thanh Ton, District 1, Tel: +848 3823 804 

The Sushi Bar 2: Zen Plaza, 5th Floor, 54-56 Nguyen Trai, District 1, Tel: +848 39250 0377 

Une Journée a Paris

Located only a short distance away from Ben Thanh Market and adjacent to Lavender Hotel, this patisserie-cum-restaurant serves a choice selection of French pastry and baguette sandwiches.

Location: 234 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 

Tel: +848 3827 7723 

Cuisine: French 

Vietnam House

This popular, cozy restaurant is in a nicely redecorated colonial building and has welcomed many world-famous people, including former US President George Herbert Bush. It has a selection of Vietnamese and international dishes and an excellent lunch buffet. Address: 93-95 Dong Khoi St 

Tel: +848 829 1623 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

                                      

Xu Restaurant Lounge

Xu offers fine modern Vietnamese cuisine alongside traditional Vietnamese favorites, in an elegant dining atmosphere. It is open for lunch and dinner from 11.30 to midnight. 

Address: Level 1 at 71-75 Hai Ba Trung, District 1

Tel: +848 3824 8468 

Cuisine: Vietnamese 

Zen

A small restaurant with a sushi bar, Zen has an eclectic choice of Japanese, Indian and Mexican dishes. It is also one of the best places in Saigon for tasty vegetarian food. 

Address: In Saigon Sky Garden Service Apartments at 20 Le Thanh Ton, District 1

Tel: +848 825 0782 

Cuisine: Japanese, Indian, Mexican