#quang binh province

[thangnguyentraveler]

Discover the World's Largest Cave: Son Doong in Vietnam

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Son Doong, the world's largest cave system located in Vietnam's Quang Binh province. #touristattractions #traveltovietnam #sondoongcave

Son Doong cave, located in the Quang Binh province of Vietnam, is the world’s largest known cave system. Discovered in 1991 by a local farmer, the cave wasn’t fully explored and mapped until 2009, revealing its massive size and unique features. Visitors can join guided tours to explore Son Doong, which features a stunning underground river, towering stalactites and stalagmites, and vast caverns…

[southeastasianarchaeology]

Vietnam recognizes 12 new national relics

via Vietnam Express, 08 March 2023: 12 new sites across Vietnam have been named as national relics, including several ancient temple complexes. #vietnam #nationalrelic

via Vietnam Express, 08 March 2023: 12 new sites across Vietnam have been named as national relics, including several ancient temple complexes. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has just announced 12 new national relics, including the Tam Chuc Pagoda Complex, Truong Dinh Temple, and writer Nam Cao’s memorial house. Source: Vietnam recognizes 12 new national relics – VnExpress…

[coolvietnamlove]

Cao Bang geopark, Cao Bằng, Vietnam: Located in six districts in the north and east of Cao Bang province, northern Vietnam, the Cao Bang geopark extends over a total area of ​​3,000 km² in the districts of Hà Quang, Trà Linh, Quang Yên, Trùng Khanh, Ha Lang, Phuc Hoà, Hoà An, Nguyên Binh and Thach An. Different ethnic communities live there such as Tày, Nùng, Mông, Kinh, Dao, San Chay

[sarcasticsweetlara]

Královnina duše

Veronica Eliska Karolina Hajek was an English woman of bohemian descent who came from London and was looking for a new future in Prague.

She had been sorted in Hufflepuff and was part of Hufflecrew.

She was 18099 years old in 1650, and was able to still look young by the philosophical stone and by a potion she made.

Her hair was honey brown. She was of high height and her eyes were a mix of blue-grey, and had a thin but curvaceous figure.

Veronica was a witch who also traveled to a lot of countries, especially Asia, and always tried to blend in but in a respectful way.

When she traveled to Vietnam, she deeply connected and fell in love with a woman called Huong Ly.

They both fled in order to create their own destiny away from their societies.

Huong was 21 in 1643 when she met Veronica, she was from Nghe An, and was a very talented witch who also was a legillimens and had a gift for charms and Defense against the Dark Arts, she longed for adventure and to have a legacy behind her name and she wanted to do it by Veronica's side.

They started teaching magic in Bohemia and eventually decided to found a school that would open its doors for anyone who was eager to learn and who always tried to do their best.

Huong took many students under her wing, she brought many students from Vietnam so that they could learn there in Bohemia and she also traveled back to Vietnam frequently in order to teach them.

In the end and Veronica founded two schools, one located in Quang Binh province in Vietnam, disguised as a lake, and the other in Ostrava, Bohemia, hidden in a mountain.

The schools had the same name but written in the two languages of Vietnamese and Czech.

"Královnina duše" in Bohemia, and "Linh hồn của một nữ hoàng" in Vietnamese, it meaned: "A queen's soul".

They both alternated between the management of the schools and always had a lot of celebrations that would bring them and the schools together.

Veronica stoped drinking her age deprivement potion, so that she would be able to grow old and die alongside Huong.

They both got married in 1657 and adopted 5 children and raised them in Bohemia.

They built a statue of an unicorn in front of the school as it was their favorite creature.

Veronica died first in 1698 and Huong died two years later, following the love of her life once again.

Nymphadora Tonks traveled to both Vietnam and Czech republic to research more about the schools, practice the magic that was studied there and to learn of the great love they had, and was overwhelmed by the story of Veronica and Huong; at first she did barely understood that kind of connection, as she also saw her mom and her dad, but she did not know how it felt to have it...

Until she met Remus Lupin and fell head over heels for him and understood everything.

[iamthepulta]

Hi we're moving on to cave systems now. :3 Look at this picture from the Tu Lan Cave System, Vietnam!

LOOK. AT. THAT. FAULTING. AND. LIMESTONE. LAYERING. HNNNG.

Hang Tien 1/2, Vietnam <3

Quang Binh Province, Vietnam

LOOK AT THIS RANDOM CAVE BACON????????? HOLY SHIT?????

[casbooks]

Books of 2023

Book 4 of 2023:

Title: Flashing Saber/Brennan’s War Authors: Matthew Brennan ISBN: 9781503102941 Tags: ACH-47 Guns-A-Go-Go Chinook, Forward Observer, FRA Groupement Mobile 100 (Indochina War), FSB Baldy (Vietnam War), FSB Bird (Vietnam War), FSB Cobra (Vietnam War), FSB English (Vietnam War), FSB Montezuma (Vietnam War), H-13 Sioux, KOR ROK Republic of Korea Army, LZ Hammond (Vietnam War), LZ Hereford (Vietnam War), LZ Montezuma (Vietnam War), LZ Porrazzo (Vietnam War), LZ Ross (Vietnam War), LZ Willy (Vietnam War), Military Police, OH-6, OV-1 Mohawk, UK Royal Malaysian Tracker School, US USA 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, US USA 12th Cavalry Regiment, US USA 173rd Airborne Brigade, US USA 196th Light Infantry Brigade, US USA 1st Cavalry Division, US USA 1st ID, US USA 21st Field Artillery Bn, US USA 227th Assault Helicopter Bn, US USA 35th Infantry Regiment, US USA 35th Infantry Regiment - 1/35, US USA 4th ID, US USA 9th Cavalry - 1st Squadron (Headhunters), US USA 9th Cavalry Regiment, US USA Combat Trackers - K9, US USA LRRP Team (Vietnam War), US USA United States Army, USA Capt. James Taylor (MOH) (Vietnam War), USAF Phu Cat Airbase (Vietnam War), VNM 1968 Tet Offensive (1968) (Vietnam War), VNM 506 Valley, VNM A Shau Valley, VNM An Khe, VNM An Lao, VNM An Loc, VNM Battle of Hue City (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Khe Sanh (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Binh An, VNM Binh Dinh Province, VNM Bong Son, VNM Bong Son River, VNM Bu Dop Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Evans (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Radcliff (Vietnam War), VNM Chu Lai, VNM CIA Phung Hoang / Phoenix Program (1965-1972) (Vietnam War), VNM Crow's Foot War Zone, VNM Da Nang, VNM Deo Mang, VNM Deo Mang pass, VNM DRV NVA 18th Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 18th Regiment - 27th Co, VNM DRV NVA 22nd Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 2nd Division, VNM DRV NVA 33rd Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 3rd Division, VNM DRV NVA 812th Regiment, VNM DRV NVA Sang Vao (Yellow Star) Division, VNM DRV VC 2nd Regiment, VNM Duc Pho, VNM Hiep Duc, VNM Ho Bo Woods, VNM Hon Kon (Hong Kong Mountain), VNM Hue, VNM Khe Sanh, VNM Kim Son, VNM Kontum, VNM Lang Vei Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Loc Ninh, VNM LZ Ross, VNM Mang Yang Pass, VNM Million Dollar Hill, VNM Monument Hill, VNM Nui Ba Ra (Mountain of the Old Man), VNM Operation Cravy Horse (1966) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Masher (1966) (Vietnam War), VNM Perfume River, VNM Phouc Vinh, VNM Pleiku, VNM Quan Loi, VNM Quang Tri, VNM Que Son Valley, VNM Route 1, VNM Route 14, VNM Route 19, VNM Rung Sat Special Zone, VNM RVN ARVN Army of the Republic of Vietnam, VNM RVN ARVN Vietnamese Rangers - Biet Dong Quan, VNM RVN RVNP Can Sat National Police, VNM Saigon, VNM Song Re, VNM Soui Ca Mountains, VNM Tam Ky, VNM Tan Son Nhut Air Base, VNM The Graveyard, VNM Tiger Mountains, VNM USMC DHCB Dong Ha Combat Base (Vietnam War), VNM USMC KSCB Khe Sanh Combat Base (Vietnam War), VNM VC Valley, VNM Vietnam War (1955-1975), VNM Vinh Thanh Valley (Happy Valley), VNM War Zone C, VNM War Zone D, VNM French Indochina War (1946-1954) Rating: 5 Stars  Subject: Books.Military.20th-21st Century.Asia.Vietnam War.US Army.Infantry

Description: 

"The division's expendables." That's what one division commander called the 1/9th Cavalry Blue platoons during the Vietnam War. The Blues, as they were called, were perpetually understrength and considered to be acceptable losses in hopeless situations--but their amazingly successful record proved otherwise.

Flashing Saber is memoir about mortal combat with the First Air Cavalry Division's reconnaissance squadron. Included is the account of an air-ground raid that killed more high-ranking enemy officers than any similar engagement of the war: a full colonel, four majors and four senior captains.

An expansion and careful reworking of his previous work, Brennan's War, published in 1985, and in the vein of classic memoirs by Johnnie Clark and Frederick Downs, the book is a harrowing firsthand account of life and death in war.****

Review: I’ve read Brennan’s previous book, Brennan’s War shortly after it was published in 1985. A lot of what was in it stuck with me as a classic retelling of some ones honest look at their own experience, their failures/stupidity, and both good and bad choices. 

This version adds a lot more nuance and more understanding to what he experienced, and the added snippets add a lot to round out some of the people and tales without watering down the experiences or raw emotion.

His experiences are unique due to his circumstances, and most importantly, he has an excellent way of telling the story. It’s not just a cut and dry “i went here, I did this...” ... but he understands narrative, he understands human emotion, and he is able to convey things in a way many other authors of this genre actually fail to do. 

[captawesomesauce]

Thoughts at 2pm...

Finished tagging a 2nd book, and all of the tags are below the cut line.

ACH-47 Guns-A-Go-Go Chinook, Forward Observer, FRA Groupement Mobile 100 (Indochina War), FSB Baldy (Vietnam War), FSB Bird (Vietnam War), FSB Cobra (Vietnam War), FSB English (Vietnam War), FSB Montezuma (Vietnam War), H-13 Sioux, KOR ROK Republic of Korea Army, LZ Hammond (Vietnam War), LZ Hereford (Vietnam War), LZ Montezuma (Vietnam War), LZ Porrazzo (Vietnam War), LZ Ross (Vietnam War), LZ Willy (Vietnam War), Military Police, OH-6, OV-1 Mohawk, UK Royal Malaysian Tracker School, US USA 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, US USA 12th Cavalry Regiment, US USA 173rd Airborne Brigade, US USA 196th Light Infantry Brigade, US USA 1st Cavalry Division, US USA 1st ID, US USA 21st Field Artillery Bn, US USA 227th Assault Helicopter Bn, US USA 35th Infantry Regiment, US USA 35th Infantry Regiment - 1/35, US USA 4th ID, US USA 9th Cavalry - 1st Squadron (Headhunters), US USA 9th Cavalry Regiment, US USA Combat Trackers - K9, US USA LRRP Team (Vietnam War), USA Capt. James Taylor (MOH) (Vietnam War), USAF Phu Cat Airbase (Vietnam War), VNM 1968 Tet Offensive (1968) (Vietnam War), VNM 506 Valley, VNM A Shau Valley, VNM An Khe, VNM An Lao, VNM An Loc, VNM Battle of Hue City (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Battle of Khe Sanh (1968) (Tet Offensive) (Vietnam War), VNM Binh An, VNM Binh Dinh Province, VNM Bong Son, VNM Bong Son River, VNM Bu Dop Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Evans (Vietnam War), VNM Camp Radcliff (Vietnam War), VNM Chu Lai, VNM CIA Phung Hoang / Phoenix Program (1965-1972) (Vietnam War), VNM Crow's Foot War Zone, VNM Da Nang, VNM Deo Mang, VNM Deo Mang pass, VNM DRV NVA 18th Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 18th Regiment - 27th Co, VNM DRV NVA 22nd Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 2nd Division, VNM DRV NVA 33rd Regiment, VNM DRV NVA 3rd Division, VNM DRV NVA 812th Regiment, VNM DRV NVA Sang Vao (Yellow Star) Division, VNM DRV VC 2nd Regiment, VNM Duc Pho, VNM Hiep Duc, VNM Ho Bo Woods, VNM Hon Kon (Hong Kong Mountain), VNM Hue, VNM Khe Sanh, VNM Kim Son, VNM Kontum, VNM Lang Vei Special Forces Camp (Vietnam War), VNM Loc Ninh, VNM LZ Ross, VNM Mang Yang Pass, VNM Million Dollar Hill, VNM Monument Hill, VNM Nui Ba Ra (Mountain of the Old Man), VNM Operation Cravy Horse (1966) (Vietnam War), VNM Operation Masher (1966) (Vietnam War), VNM Perfume River, VNM Phouc Vinh, VNM Pleiku, VNM Quan Loi, VNM Quang Tri, VNM Que Son Valley, VNM Route 1, VNM Route 14, VNM Route 19, VNM Rung Sat Special Zone, VNM RVN ARVN Army of the Republic of Vietnam, VNM RVN ARVN Vietnamese Rangers - Biet Dong Quan, VNM RVN RVNP National Police, VNM Saigon, VNM Song Re, VNM Soui Ca Mountains, VNM Tam Ky, VNM Tan Son Nhut Air Base, VNM The Graveyard, VNM Tiger Mountains, VNM USMC DHCB Dong Ha Combat Base (Vietnam War), VNM USMC KSCB Khe Sanh Combat Base (Vietnam War), VNM VC Valley, VNM Vietnam War (1955-1975), VNM Vinh Thanh Valley (Happy Valley), VNM War Zone C, VNM War Zone D, VNM French Indochina War (1946-154)

[phongnhacave]

How to Get to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi

Quang Binh province is a top tourist destination in Vietnam, known for its stunning natural landscapes and the majestic caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. With beautiful beaches in Dong Hoi and surrounding areas, it attracts both domestic and international travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.

There are many attractive places waiting for you to experience such as exploring Son Doong Cave, exploring Cha Loi Cave, visiting Phong Nha Cave, Thien Duong Cave, and many other attractive tourist destinations.

Dong Hoi city has many 4-5 star hotels and resorts, where the North-South railway line passes through and stops at Dong Hoi station. There is Dong Hoi airport along with large bays from Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi to Dong Hoi Quang Binh.

Getting to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi

1. Go to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi by bus

Traveling from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha by bus is a convenient and economical option. Buses depart every 30 minutes, with a journey time of approximately 90 minutes. This method allows you to sit back and enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way.

From Dong Hoi train station its a 1.5 km walk to Nam Ly Bus Station.

2. Go to Phong Nha from Dong Hoi by  Taxi

[vietnamexcursions-blog]

Halong tourism trying to overcome damages of Yagi typhoon

Cruise Halong bay - The devastation caused by Typhoon Yagi is still a haunting experience for many people and businesses. According to the general assessment of the tourism industry, just a preliminary assessment of the damage has produced frightening results.

In particular, the tourist accommodation sector suffered damages from small-scale establishments, motels to 4-5 star luxury hotels and resorts. The largest damage was probably in Halong City when the accommodation establishments on shore suffered damage related to broken glass, broken roof tiles of villas, collapsed by wind, damaged ceilings, damaged furniture in the rooms, reception areas, restaurants, bars, and auxiliary areas. Along with that were broken trees, lamp posts in the premises, and damage to the electrical system, air conditioning, water, etc.

The restaurants, shops, shopping centers, businesses, souvenir shops, many of which mainly use steel frames, corrugated iron roofs, and simple materials, all collapsed, were blown away, broken, severely damaged, and many were even completely damaged. Some key tourist attractions such as: Quang Ninh Museum, Planning Palace, Provincial Fair and Exhibition, Sunworld entertainment area, Tuan Chau tourist area… suffered heavy damage to facilities…

Tourism service and management facilities on Halong Bay are also in a similar situation. According to the unit's statistics, most of the management and operation points on the bay of the Halong Bay Management Board have had their roofs blown off, damaged, or sunk. The Cua Van Floating Cultural Center was severely damaged, and 15 preserved raft houses at Cua Van were completely submerged. The stone railing of the wharf leading to Thien Cung Cave was broken. Many equipment, machinery, signs, and regulation boards were broken. Ornamental plants at tourist attractions on Halong Bay were almost completely broken.

Property of people and businesses at boat rowing and kayaking service points in the areas of Ba Hang, Cong Do, Cua Van, Hang Luon, Vung Vieng on Halong Bay was severely damaged. The system of tourist ports was more or less damaged. In particular, Tuan Chau International Passenger Port had its roof damaged. The offices and reception areas of businesses at the port were all damaged. Halong International Passenger Port had the entire pontoon of wharf No. 3 washed away, and 2 pontoons of wharf No. 2 sank. Businesses and tourist boat owners continued to be devastated after the storm when up to 27 tourist boats and 4 cargo boats sank, some boats were slightly damaged.

Along with Halong, other localities also recorded significant damage to tourism service infrastructure, green landscape systems that create beauty for destinations in the area. For example, at Quang Ninh Gate Tourist Area (Dong Trieu Town) with an area of ??20 hectares, including entertainment systems, resorts… located along the Vang Chua River.

The damage to tourism after Typhoon Yagi is difficult to measure, especially when tourism businesses have not yet fully recovered after the Covid-19 pandemic has passed. Recovery will also be a long-term story, but with a solid foundation and strong spirit of the tourism industry that has developed over a long period of time in Quang Ninh, we have hope for a revival and a chance for a spectacular recovery in the near future.

As of September 13, the province has 11/12 districts, towns, and cities with recognized tourist areas and spots ready to welcome visitors again after quickly cleaning. Among them, the two tourist areas of Binh Lieu and Co To have both overcome the storm's impact and welcomed visitors. 67/87 tourist spots are ready to welcome visitors again.

Halong City has 39 4-5 star hotels with 8,572 rooms, of which 5,196 rooms are ready to welcome guests (accounting for 60% of the total number of rooms). There are 36 hotels that are both under repair and welcoming guests (accounting for 85%). The 1-3 star tourist accommodation sector that meets standards is still ready to welcome guests with about 580 hotels, including 8,540 rooms.

In addition, the system of large, solid restaurants in Bai Chay and Hon Gai areas are still operating normally. Many souvenir shops and tourist service establishments are ready to reopen; many cafes and night eateries are operating normally.

In localities such as Mong Cai, Hai Ha, Uong Bi, 100% of accommodation facilities are ready to welcome guests; 30% of accommodation facilities with 60% of the total number of rooms in Co To district are ready to welcome guests; some onshore facilities in Van Don are also ready to serve…

This shows the great efforts of localities, businesses and individuals participating in tourism business in the area. For example, Legacy Yen Tu, although affected by flooding due to rising stream water, broken trees, prolonged power, water and telecommunication outages, has quickly overcome the situation to be able to welcome guests during and immediately after the storm. Businesses such as Halong Pearl Joint Stock Company also temporarily put aside worries about pearl farms in the bay being destroyed, urgently cleaned up and repaired 2 showrooms, pearl farming and pearl experience shops whose roofs were blown off and glass doors broken by the storm, to be able to welcome guests after 3 days of the storm.

Even Van Don International Airport and the two international passenger ports of Tuan Chau and Halong, which were more or less damaged, were soon put back into operation. Cruise ships quickly repaired their facilities, ready to operate 315/359 ships at both ports, accounting for 88%, including sightseeing ships, restaurant ships, and overnight ships.

Although not all, some destinations on the Halong Bay tour were also quickly checked to be ready to welcome guests, including sightseeing spots and overnight accommodations on the bay. And from September 13, cruise ships were ordered to continue taking visitors to visit and stay overnight on Halong Bay…

It is easy to see that tourism activities in Quang Ninh have recovered quickly after Typhoon Yagi. However, the assessment also shows that the impact of Typhoon No. 3 will lead to a weakening of the financial capacity of enterprises at different levels, affecting many aspects of the province, affecting the jobs and income of thousands of workers.

Therefore, supporting tourism businesses and workers to recover strongly in the coming time requires practical attention, consensus and joint efforts of the province and responsible agencies as well as efforts of each establishment, unit and tourism business in the area. The support is not only for a moment, in the short term, but it is necessary to have a roadmap and long-term solutions so that tourism businesses have a foundation to ensure truly sustainable development…

Source: https://cruise-halong-bay.com/news/halong-tourism-trying-to-overcome-damages-of-yagi-typhoon.asp

[insideoutvietnam]

Severe Flooding Hits Suburban and Riverside Areas of Hanoi

From the night of September 10 to the morning of September 11, parts of the Northern Delta region, including Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Hoa Binh, and sections of Yen Bai and Lao Cai provinces, experienced continuous rainfall. Some areas saw accumulations ranging from 50 mm to 120 mm, with isolated locations receiving over 200 mm. While heavy rains are expected to ease by the afternoon of…

[vinnybonzer]

Rough guide to exploring Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Vietnam

Imagine a world hidden beneath the earth, a realm of towering stalactites, shimmering underground rivers, and ancient, untouched beauty! Welcome to Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's a true marvel of nature, and one of the most extraordinary Vietnam things to visit.

With its labyrinth of caves, lush jungles, and diverse wildlife, Phong Nha Ke Bang provides an adventure unlike any other. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this hidden gem has something to offer everyone.

Overview

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in central Vietnam’s Quang Binh Province. Spanning over 885,000 hectares, the park is renowned for its breathtaking karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity. As a star in many Vietnam Cambodia travel packages, this spot is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, especially those interested in exploring some of the most spectacular caves in the world.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to explore the park's caves and trails. Additionally, the water levels in the rivers and streams are lower during the dry season, which can make it easier to access some of the more remote areas of the park.

However, the park can still be visited during the rainy season (May to October). While the weather may be more unpredictable and the trails can be muddy, the park is less crowded and the prices for accommodations and tours are typically lower. If you're flexible with your travel dates and don't mind the possibility of rain, visiting during the rainy season can be a great option.

How to get there

By air: Fly into Dong Hoi Airport (VDH), which is about 45 kilometers from Phong Nha town. There are domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major Vietnamese cities. From the airport, take a taxi or shuttle bus to Phong Nha town.

By train: Dong Hoi is also accessible by train from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The train station is close to the airport, and taxis or buses can take you to Phong Nha.

By bus: Several bus companies offer services from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue to Phong Nha. Overnight buses are a popular choice for travelers.

Accommodation

There are many hotels and resorts to choose from near Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, depending on your budget and preferences. You can consider staying in Phong Nha Town for convenience and proximity to the park’s attractions. This is the main base for visitors, which offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and guesthouses.

For a more tranquil experience, look into options a bit further out, for example Son Trach Village. Located near the park entrance, this village has additional accommodation options and provides easy access to the park.

Things to Do in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park

Uncover the caves

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is home to the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong, which offers an adventurous multi-day trek with a specialized tour operator like Oxalis Adventure. This epic journey takes you through massive chambers, underground rivers, and unique ecosystems. Due to its size and complexity, it requires advanced booking and preparation but promises an unforgettable experience.

Accessible by a scenic boat ride along the Son River, Phong Nha Cave is one of the park’s most popular attractions. This impressive cave features a vast underground river and stunning rock formations that will leave you in awe. The boat ride provides a unique perspective of the cave’s grandeur, and you can marvel at the natural beauty within.

Paradise Cave, or Thien Duong Cave, is known for its extensive and intricate stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is one of the longest dry caves in Asia. You can walk along well-maintained wooden paths illuminated with soft lighting, which enhances the cave’s ethereal atmosphere. The sheer scale and the stunning formations make it a must-visit.

Located in Halong Bay-like surroundings, Sung Sot Cave features two main chambers filled with awe-inspiring rock formations. The cave’s dramatic entrance and expansive interiors offer a mesmerizing experience. The path through the cave provides stunning views and photo opportunities.

Enjoy outdoor adventures

Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts with many thrilling activities, typically trekking. Various guided tours here will take you through lesser-known caves and rugged landscapes. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced trekker, there are options to suit different fitness levels and interests.

For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining over the lush jungle canopy and rivers. Available in areas like the Phong Nha Botanic Garden, zip-lining offers a thrilling way to experience the park’s natural beauty from above.

You can also explore the tranquil rivers and waterways of the park by kayak. This serene activity allows you to appreciate the surrounding landscapes and wildlife while enjoying a peaceful paddling experience.

Discover natural attractions

One of the most striking destinations here is Phong Nha Botanic Garden, which is an excellent place for nature lovers. It features well-maintained trails through diverse flora and fauna. Bird watching and nature walks are popular activities here, providing an opportunity to connect with the park’s natural environment.

Another stunning natural spot to unveil in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is Hang En Cave, the third-largest cave in the world. Hang En Cave is accessible via a multi-day trek. It’s part of the Son Doong adventure, but can also be explored on its own. The cave’s vast interior and picturesque setting make it a fascinating destination.

Visit local villages

Exploring local villages around Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Vietnamese culture and lifestyle. These villages provide insight into the daily lives of the local communities, including ethnic minorities who have lived in the area for generations. Some villages you can visit here are Phong Nha Village, Son Trach, Village, Hieu Village, Cha Lo Village, Ann Phu Village and Ngoc Linh Village.

Additional tips

Some attractions, especially Hang Son Doong, require advance booking and permits. Ensure you book tours and permits well in advance to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute issues.

Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and exploring caves. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for cave tours, although some tours provide these. Also, pack light rain gear and stay hydrated.

Last but not least, be prepared for varying weather conditions. The dry season (March to August) is ideal for exploring, while the rainy season (September to February) can bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

[vaidhainshijindal]

Unveiling Vietnam's Hidden Gems: Ninh Binh, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Co To Island

Vietnam is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage, with destinations like Ninh Binh, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Co To Island offering a glimpse into the country's diverse beauty. In this guide, we'll explore these hidden gems, each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking to uncover the secrets of Vietnam's coastal and inland treasures.

Ninh Binh in Vietnam

Ninh Binh in Vietnam, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land," is a picturesque province in northern Vietnam known for its limestone karsts, tranquil rivers, and ancient temples.

Trang An Landscape Complex: Explore the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex, a maze of limestone karsts, caves, and emerald-green waterways. Take a boat ride through this stunning natural wonder, passing by ancient pagodas and lush vegetation.

Tam Coc: Discover the scenic beauty of Tam Coc, also known as the "Halong Bay on land." Drift along the Ngo Dong River on a traditional sampan boat, passing through limestone caves and rice paddies framed by towering cliffs.

Bich Dong Pagoda: Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a complex of three ancient temples nestled within a cliffside cave. Climb the stone steps to reach the upper pagoda, where panoramic views of the surrounding countryside await.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Explore the ruins of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Wander through the remnants of royal palaces, temples, and fortifications, and learn about the rich history of the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Bai Tu Long Bay in Vietnam

Bai Tu Long Bay, located northeast of Halong Bay, is a pristine and less-visited alternative known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged islands, and secluded beaches.

Scenic Cruises: Embark on a scenic cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, marveling at its towering limestone karsts and emerald-green waters. Explore hidden caves, tranquil lagoons, and deserted beaches along the way.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village, a traditional floating community where local fishermen have lived for generations. Learn about their daily lives, witness traditional fishing techniques, and interact with friendly villagers.

Thien Canh Son Cave: Explore Thien Canh Son Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Bai Tu Long Bay. Admire its intricate stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by soft lighting that enhances the cave's natural beauty.

Beach Escapes: Relax on the pristine beaches of Bai Tu Long Bay, including Tra Gioi Beach and Bai Dai Beach. Swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on golden sands, and enjoy the tranquility of this untouched paradise.

Co To Island

Co To Island, located in Quang Ninh Province, is a serene and unspoiled paradise known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes.

Beachfront Bliss: Spend your days lounging on Co To's idyllic beaches, including Hong Van, Van Chay, and Bac Van. Swim in the clear waters, snorkel among colorful coral reefs, and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the horizon.

Island Exploration: Rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore Co To's scenic coastline and charming villages. Discover hidden coves, fishing hamlets, and scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding archipelago.

Fresh Seafood: Indulge in the island's culinary delights, particularly its fresh seafood. Feast on grilled squid, steamed crabs, and savory seafood hotpots at local eateries and beachside restaurants.

Conclusion

From the majestic landscapes of Ninh Binh to the pristine waters of Bai Tu Long Bay and the serene beaches of Co To Island, Vietnam offers a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, cruising through limestone karsts, or lounging on sandy shores, each destination promises unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to the beauty of Vietnam's natural wonders. Embark on an adventure to uncover these hidden treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[southeastasianarchaeology]

Trang An Landscape's Decade as World Heritage Site Celebrated

Trang An celebrated 10 years as a UNESCO site, highlighting sustainable tourism and heritage preservation.

via Vietnam Plus, 27 April 2024: The Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh celebrated its 10th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang highlighted Trang An’s role in bridging cultural histories and promoting sustainable tourism. A ceremony was held in the northern province of Ninh Binh on April 26 evening to celebrate the 10th anniversary of UNESCO’s…

[vietnamexcursions-blog]

Boat races stir up to celebrate national day in Quang Binh

Vietnam Spirit Travel. On the morning of September 1, at the Quan Hau ferry historical site, Quang Ninh district (Quang Binh province), the 2024 Traditional Boat Racing Festival on Nhat Le river was solemnly held.

To celebrate the 79th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day September 2, Quang Binh province organized the Traditional Boat Racing Festival on Nhat Le River. Attending the opening ceremony were representatives of local leaders, former leaders, departments, branches, and a large number of people, children of the homeland and tourists.

This year, there are 19 racing boats from 13 communes and towns, including 11 male racing boats and 8 female racing boats with 450 athletes competing together. The female racing boats compete in one round, the male racing boats based on the results of the group stage have selected teams ranked A and B to participate in the final round. The male teams compete at a distance of 15km, the female teams 7.5km.

The boat racing festival is a traditional cultural activity, preserved and conserved by the local people for over 500 years, going through many ups and downs of history but still not fading away. Gradually, boat racing has become a traditional cultural festival typical of the people of Quang Ninh district. The boat racing festival on Nhat Le river was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2022.

Before the August Revolution, the festival was held every 6 years called "Luc nien canh do". After the success of the August Revolution, on September 2, 1946, for the first time, the people of Quang Ninh district organized a boat race to "celebrate Independence Day". On September 2, 1975, Quang Ninh district organized a boat race on Nhat Le River and from then on, every year on the occasion of National Day, September 2, the district held a boat race to celebrate Independence Day, with the meaning of promoting the heroic revolutionary tradition, promoting the spirit of solidarity and community cohesion, while creating a joyful atmosphere, contributing to building a rich and beautiful homeland.

Source: https://vietnamspirittravel.com/travel-news/boat-racing-festival-on-nhat-le-river-to-celebrate-national-day.asp

[insideoutvietnam]

Severe Flooding Hits Suburban and Riverside Areas of Hanoi

From the night of September 10 to the morning of September 11, parts of the Northern Delta region, including Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Hoa Binh, and sections of Yen Bai and Lao Cai provinces, experienced continuous rainfall. Some areas saw accumulations ranging from 50 mm to 120 mm, with isolated locations receiving over 200 mm. While heavy rains are expected to ease by the afternoon of…