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Showing posts from September, 2023

BBC’s Travel Blog Features Four Signature Hanoi Dishes

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Hanoi is renowned for its culinary delights, with four dishes making it onto the prestigious list of 121 Typical Delicacies of Vietnam. These include the iconic pho (noodle soup), bun oc (vermicelli soup with snail), com Vong (dishes made from young stick rice flakes), and bun thang (vermicelli noodle with assorted toppings). Bun thang is one among Hanoi delicacies honored. On September 29, the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association (VCCA) held a ceremony in Hanoi to recognize and award certificates to 121 exemplary culinary dishes selected for Phase 1 (2022) of the project “Building and Developing Vietnamese Culinary Culture into a National Brand”. The association also announced Phase 2 (2023) of the project. During the first phase, a total of 421 culinary dishes from 60 out of 63 provinces and cities were nominated. With the expertise of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experts, the VCCA carefully handpicked 121 typical Vietnamese dishes for the project. These d

Preserving Intangible Cultures in Hanoi: The Role of Artisans

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During a recent workshop in Hanoi, Associate Professor Tran Thi An, President of the Hanoi Folk Arts Association, highlighted the importance of folk artists in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the city. By transmitting the essential values of Hanoi’s ancient culture, these artists play a vital role in safeguarding the intangible cultural treasures of the capital. A performance by the Hanoi Ca tru Club at Kim Ngan Temple, No.42 Hang Bac Street. Photo courtesy of the club During a workshop titled “The Role and Responsibility of Artisans in Protecting and Promoting the Value of Hanoi’s Intangible Cultural Heritage,” she emphasized the significance of folk artists in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. These artisans possess a social responsibility to safeguard and promote the values associated with cultural heritage. According to researcher Le Hong Ly, it is crucial for folk artists to play a more active role in educating the community, partic

Hanoi Photographer Receives Recognition at International Photography Awards 2023

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Hanoi-based photographer Tran Viet Van, from Lao Dong (Labor) newspaper, received an honorable mention at the 20th International Photography Awards (IPA) 2023 in the US. Van’s entry, titled “The Rhythm of Time,” consists of nine color photos and was recognized in the Press Photo category. The photos showcase the daily life and activities of Cuban people in Old Havana and Trinidad during his visit to the Latin American country in November 2022. Some of the images from this series have previously won an Honorable Mention in the Press Photo category at the World Master of Photography Awards in Austria and a Third Prize at the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year in the UK, the world’s leading award for food photography. The IPA 2023 received over 15,000 entries from 120 countries worldwide. Esteemed photography experts from the US, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy selected excellent works in various categories for exhibitions and publication in books. The winners in categories s

Resumption of Tourist Boat Service on Vietnam’s Scenic Nho Que River in Ha Giang

Tu San Agricultural and Tourism Service Cooperative, the sole provider of tourist boat services on the Nho Que River in Meo Vac District, announced the reopening of boat transportation to Tu San Canyon via the Nho Que 1 Hydropower Plant route. Starting at 7:00 am on Thursday, tourists can once again enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Southeast Asia’s deepest canyon, which stretches 1.7 kilometers and features imposing cliffs reaching heights of up to 800 meters. This announcement follows a directive from the Ha Giang Province People’s Committee and a productive meeting between the cooperative, Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC, and the Meo Vac District People’s Committee. The cooperative had temporarily suspended boat service after the expiration of their contract with Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC. Despite facing challenges in extending the contract, the cooperative and Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC have now resolved the issue, allowing for the resumption of this popular tourist activity. On Tuesday, the

Vietnam Will Submit “Glorious Ashes” to 2024 Oscars

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The film Tro Tan Ruc Ro (Glorious Ashes) has been selected to represent Vietnamese cinema in the preliminary round of the 2024 Oscars category for international film. The invitation was extended by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences based in the US. If the film qualifies for the official competition round, it will be competing in the Best Non-English Film category. This film marks the return of director Bui Thac Chuyen after a 10-year absence since his last film, Loi Nguyen Huyet Ngai (The Curse of the Blood Wormwood). Phuong Anh Dao, playing Nhan, in a scene of “Glorious Ashes”. Glorious Ashes is an adaptation of two short stories by novelist Nguyen Ngoc Tu: Tro Tan Ruc Ro and Cui Muc Troi Ve (Rotten Firewood Returns). The film tells the story of the devastated people of Thom Rom hamlet, a poignant fishing village in Ca Mau province. Glorious Ashes revolves around the unusual love lives of three women, presenting a contrast between their tumultuou

Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 Crowned in Hanoi

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The newly crowned Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 is a 25-year-old model and entrepreneur from Hanoi. She stands at a height of 1.72m and has perfect measurements of 86, 60, and 93cm. The Hanoian girl crowned the beauty contest of Miss Universe Vietnam 2023. Photo: missosology.org The newly crowned Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 gave an excellent answer during the behavioral rounds, expressing her thoughts in both English and Vietnamese. She emphasized the importance of learning, respecting differences, and honoring them. She believes that when we know how to respect differences, love, and share, the world will be a much better place. Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 will represent her country with the national flag at the upcoming The 72ND Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador. The pageant will take place at the Adolfo Pineda National Gymnasium on Saturday, November 18, 2023. The reigning Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel, will crown her successor at the end of the Grand Fi

Vietnam at the Heart of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy

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On September 26, the Vietnamese Embassy in Ottawa held a ceremony to celebrate the 78th anniversary of National Day and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Canada. This event was attended by more than 250 guests, including Canadian diplomatic officials, diplomats from ASEAN countries, international experts, and scholars interested in Vietnam. In addition, a large number of overseas Vietnamese women, businessmen, and students from major provinces and cities in Canada also attended. During the opening ceremony, the Ambassador-Designate of Vietnam to Canada, Pham Vinh Quang, reviewed the country’s political, diplomatic, and socioeconomic achievements. He emphasized that Vietnam will continue to be an attractive destination for international investors and tourists. Vietnam is considered one of the fastest-growing emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2022, its GDP grew by 8% despite the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. It is expected that Vietna

Vietnamese National Assembly Leaders Receive Noble Awards from Cuba

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Cuba Awards Noble Medals to Leaders of the Vietnamese National Assembly The ceremony was attended by Politburo member, Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue and Politburo member, Chairman of the National Assembly of the People’s Government of the Republic of Cuba Esteban Lazo Hernandez. The ceremony was held to recognize and honor important contributions in promoting bilateral relations between the two countries and between the two Congresses. Chairman of the Cuban National Assembly Esteban Lazo Hernandez awarded the Order of the Cuban State to 7 leaders and former leaders of the National Assembly of Vietnam. At the ceremony, Chairman of the Cuban National Assembly Esteban Lazo Hernandez respectfully awarded the Carlos Manuel de Cesesspespeedes Medal to National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue; awarded the Ana Betancourt Medal to former National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan; awarded the Solidarity Medal to Standing Vice Chairman of the National Assembly

Vietnam and RoK Boost Tourism Activity

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This memorandum of understanding was signed with the aim of promoting the exchange of visitors between Vietnam and South Korea, increasing the number of Korean visitors to Vietnam and Vietnamese visitors to South Korea. The agreement signing ceremony. Accordingly, both sides will share information on tourism policies, market trends, and statistics, and promote exchanges between tourism businesses. Member businesses of the Vietnam Tourism Association will receive support in developing and promoting Korean tourism programs and improving the quality of services for Korean tourists in Vietnam. Efforts will also be made to improve the quality of Korean tourism programs and ensure the rights of Vietnamese tourists in Korea. The two sides will also collaborate on organizing tourism promotion activities such as fairs, seminars, and famous… This cooperation agreement serves as the foundation for developing highly professional Vietnam-RoK tourism programs, including researching c

Hue City Blind Students Receive Support from French Childhood Hope Association

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On September 27, the People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue province issued Decision No. 2251/QD-UBND to receive non-project aid from the Childhood Hope Association (France) to support blind students in difficult circumstances living at the Center for Education and Career Guidance for Blind Children in Thua Thien Hue province with a total aid of VND 114,777,000, equivalent to 4,500 EUR. Giving gifts to the blind on the occasion of Tet 2022. Specifically, the French Association will provide financial support for some school supplies and pay salaries for 01 kitchen staff and 01 security guard for the Center. The aid also aims to help blind students living at the Center for Education and Career Guidance for Blind Children (Address: 180/1 Phan Boi Chau, Truong An Ward, Hue City) to have better conditions for learning, practicing, and developing talents. The People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue Province assigned the Blind Association of Thua Thien Hue Province to receive and o

GSM Unveils Electric Scooter Ride-Hailing in Ho Chi Minh City

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Starting from September 29th, 2023, residents of Ho Chi Minh City can now easily access and book the electric scooter ride-hailing service offered by Green SM Bike through their official mobile application. With fares starting at VN13,800 for the initial 2 kilometers (equivalent to VND6,900 per kilometer), and VND4,800 per kilometer from the third kilometer onward, this service provides a convenient and cost-effective transportation solution. The VinFast Feliz S model has been chosen as the official electric scooter for the Green SM Bike fleet. This model is renowned for its Cyan Blue paint, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. Furthermore, the VinFast Feliz S is highly regarded by both drivers and passengers for its exceptional engine power, seamless performance, and plush, comfortable seating. At Green SM Bike, we are dedicated to upholding the core values of Echoing Green SM. Our top priority is ensuring that our passengers have an exceptional service experience. To achie

Celebrating Milestones in French-Vietnamese Relations through Fashion Show

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The schedule of events was announced at a press conference held at the French Consulate General Palace on Wednesday. The exciting lineup includes informative talks, impressive exhibitions, captivating film festivals, engaging competitions, and captivating performances showcasing notable individuals from both the French and Vietnamese fashion industries. Fashion and Design season commences with a bang The Consul General of France, Emmanuelle Pavillon Grosser, expressed her satisfaction with the previous season titled ‘Cuisine.’ This season, which took place from January to June, hosted a series of captivating events that showcased the diverse aspects of French and Vietnamese culinary arts. Gain unique insights into topics such as the rich history of bread, the captivating world of culinary cross-pollination, the exquisite art of wine tasting, the intriguing diplomatic cuisine, the enticing realm of coffee, and the indulgent secrets of cocoa. Engage with renowned culinary experts from

Introducing a New Tour Showcasing the Art of Vietnam in November

Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, the head of the Department of Communications and External Relations at the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, highlights that the cultural heritage tour is a result of a long-standing collaboration between the museum and travel companies. The aim of the tour is to provide visitors with an engaging and informative experience during their visit to the capital. Visitors have the option to explore the museum with a tour guide or utilize a multimedia voiceover application that offers sound, images, and smart instructions in eight languages. This technology allows visitors to save time and enhance their overall experience, explains Huong. Of particular note, the Highlight Tour aims to provide visitors with in-depth knowledge about the various artworks on display at the museum, revealing the fascinating stories behind these artifacts. Moreover, this tour offers an engaging experience for art enthusiasts who seek to delve deeper into the unique cultural values of

The Battle of Old vs New: The Media Taking on Artificial Intelligence

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Media Companies Turned Against AI Initially, the emergence of AI technology that could produce long-form pieces of data, essays, and sophisticated answers to complex questions was seen as a significant technological advancement. However, it became apparent to writers and those in the media that much of this technology poses a threat to the future of human-written research, industry, and innovation. As a result, there is now a growing call for change. Major media companies are leading the charge against the rise of AI companies and their potential global dominance by implementing safeguards and measures. How AI is Impacting Different Industries: From Gambling to Healthcare While the media industry is currently experiencing the full impact of AI, it should be noted that the implementation of AI in other industries, such as healthcare and gambling, has been happening for some time. However, the stakes are much higher in the media industry, as jobs, livelihoods, and the essence of

Award Honors Dedicated Woman for Traditional Mid-Autumn Toy Crafting

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Nguyen Thi Tuyen is the sole remaining artisan in her village dedicated to crafting traditional toys for the annual Mid-Autumn Festival. Despite only working for one month each year, she perseveres in this art form, considering it to be the essence of her existence and a means of preserving cultural heritage for the younger generation.  Nguyen Thi Tuyen is busy making Mid-Autumn toys for customers. Photo: Cong Phuong Every year during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the residents of Ai Hau Village in Van Canh Commune, Hoai Duc District, located approximately 10 kilometers from Hanoi, are engaged in the production of lanterns that are then distributed to the market. The village was filled with trucks, eagerly awaiting to load star lanterns, carp lanterns, and traditional toys for delivery to various destinations. Ai Hau Village proudly holds the title as the birthplace of lantern making in the historic capital city. In today’s world, the allure of industrially manufactured toy

US Movie’s Trailer Reveals the Beauty of Ha Long Bay

A stunning display of Ha Long Bay’s picturesque landscapes, featuring its majestic mountains and crystal blue waters, captivates viewers within the opening moments of the trailer. Gareth Edwards, the film’s director, expressed his admiration for the bay’s breathtaking beauty, having personally visited the location. The film crew embarked on a 16,000 km journey, exploring 18 exquisite destinations across countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Nepal, Japan, and Indonesia. The Creator features a star-studded cast including John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe, Sturgill Simpson, Allison Janney, and Ngo Thanh Van, a prominent Vietnamese actress. Set in a dystopian world torn by war against artificial intelligence, Washington portrays Joshua, a hardened ex-special forces agent on a mission to eliminate “the Creator,” the enigmatic architect of advanced AI who possesses a mysterious weapon capable of ending the war and humanity itself. Edwards and Chris Weitz co-wrote

Strengthening Ties between Vietnam and Hong Kong in Cultural and Artistic Education

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two parties will prioritize collaboration in student training. This includes enrolling Vietnamese students in education and training programs offered by the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA). In addition, cultural and art training institutions of Vietnam and Hong Kong will strengthen exchanges and research, as well as cooperate in organizing training activities in the performing arts, music, dance, drama, theater, and film production, among others. Professor Gillian Choa, Director of HKAPA, emphasized the significance of signing the MoU, as it marks the first collaboration between the academy and Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Professor Choa expressed her hope that the MoU will contribute to mutual understanding in the field of culture and facilitate increased student and lecturer exchanges, ultimately leading to improvements in training quality for both sides. Le Anh Tuan, Director of the Traini

HCM City Launches French-Vietnamese Fashion and Design Festivities

The cultural activities of the 2023 Season 2 programme at the French Institute in HCM City were recently shared at a press conference on September 20 at the French Consul General’s Residence. This event is part of a series of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between France and Vietnam. Numerous fashion and design activities are planned for Season 2, with the theme “Fashion and Design”. These activities include fashion and design seminars, high-fashion nights, fashion film festivals, and the Fashion in Paris competition. Prominent figures in the fields of fashion and perfumery from France, the French Fashion Institute, and the French Federation of Fashion and Haute Couture have been invited to Vietnam to participate in seminars on various topics such as high fashion, sustainable fashion, environmentally-friendly design, and perfumery. The goal of this event series is to target the young audien

Westlife to Bring World-Famous Music to Vietnam in November

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The band announced on their official Facebook account that they will be returning to Vietnam with the Wild Dreams tour on November 22, 2023. Their highly-anticipated live concert will be held at Thong Nhat Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City, as stated in the Facebook post. Tickets for the concert will go on sale next Tuesday. They urged their fans not to miss out on this opportunity. A photo of the members of Westlife when they were young. Photo: The Guardian Immediately after the announcement, the Facebook post received an overwhelming response with 6,000 reactions, 1,500 comments, and over 1,000 shares. Many fans expressed their excitement and mentioned that they would be attending the concert with their friends. In 2011, Westlife visited Vietnam for the first time and performed at My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi as part of their Westlife Gravity Tour. Two years later, Shane Filan, the main vocalist of Westlife, held the You & Me Tour Live in Saigon show at 7 Nguyen Tat Than

Decline in Demand for Mooncakes Despite Ample Variety

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With only one day remaining before the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 29th, mooncake sales in the market are still quite low. In previous years, demand for mooncakes typically increased during this time as people purchased them for personal consumption and as gifts for loved ones. Tran Khanh Duong, a mooncake vendor in Hanoi’s Hai Ba Trung district, stated that most shops open their counters at least a month before Full Moon Day, but sales have been slow. He attributed this to the lingering effects of Covid-19, which has resulted in fewer big orders from companies and people being hesitant to spend. Additionally, market purchases have not yet rebounded as expected. On average, customers are only buying 1-2 boxes of traditional mooncakes as gifts for themselves or their loved ones. Hotels introduce new mooncake collections. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times Some individuals prefer homemade mooncakes over mass-produced ones due to their lower cost and superior taste. Ho

Plans Announced for Inaugural Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival in 2024

An opening ceremony will be held on April 6 at Saigon Opera House, followed by an award giving and closing ceremony at Lam Son park in District 1. The festival will take place on Nguyen Hue pedestrian street and will feature a range of activities over the course of eight days. The highlight of the event will be an exhibition on the film industry, workshops on the Vietnamese and global film industries, and short training courses. This festival provides a valuable opportunity for Vietnamese filmmakers to connect and collaborate with international colleagues. Movie enthusiasts will also have the chance to enjoy the best and latest films, and have the opportunity to meet their favorite celebrities. Additionally, Cine show, a series of music and fashion shows, will offer unique experiences and celebrate the Vietnamese and global film industries. Visitors will also be introduced to the outstanding achievements of the fashion industry in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam. The post Plans

Hanoi Hit With Severe Traffic Congestion Due to Heavy Rainfall

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The torrential rain falls during rush hours, causing traffic to grind to a halt. The photo has been snapped on To Huu Street. The post Hanoi Hit With Severe Traffic Congestion Due to Heavy Rainfall appeared first on Vietexplorer.com .

Vietnam’s Northern Region Experiences Unusual Heavy Rains (September 29)

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According to the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting, the weather forecast during the Mid-Autumn Festival (September 29) in the North includes scattered showers and thunderstorms with locally moderate and heavy rain. In other areas, there will be scattered showers and thunderstorms with heavy rain, especially in the South Central region, Central Highlands, and Southern regions. Thunderstorms may bring tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds. The weather forecast in different regions Northwest region: The Northwest will be cloudy with moderate to heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms. Thunderstorms may bring tornadoes, lightning, and strong winds. The lowest temperature will range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius, with some areas below 21 degrees. The highest temperature will range from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, with temperatures over 30 degrees in some places. East Northern region: The East Northern region will experience cloudy weather with moderate to heavy

Kho Mu Young Rice Festival Celebrated in Lai Chau Province

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The event is held during the eighth month of the lunar calendar. Locals select plump rice ears as part of the ritual in order to worship the rice’s soul to express respect towards the God of agriculture. This is an occasion in which to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. An indispensable part of the festival is to choose rice and to make green rice flakes. Locals harvest rice after performing the ritual in which they worship the rice’s soul. The festival helps to strengthen solidarity among the community as a whole. Making green rice is part of the festival. A food tray represents the Kho Mu ethnic culture and is an integral part of the important cultural occasion. The tray is meant to symbolize both happiness and wealth. Locals enjoy playing tug of war during the festival. A food tray represents the Kho Mu ethnic culture and is an integral part of the important cultural occasion. Locals enjoy playing tug of war during the festival. The post Kho

Ritual of Blessing Rain for Ede People in Buon Ma Thuot City

Every morning, the Ky hamlet community house is filled with people gathering for the rain worship ceremony. Young men carefully arrange a set of gongs while the women diligently prepare the offerings. The village center is adorned with a two-storey PĆ°k hut, specifically built for the rain ritual. The upper storey is dedicated to the god and goddess, while the lower storey serves as a granary, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. In front of the hut, offerings to the evil god, who brings destruction to the fields through birds and beasts, are placed. These offerings consist of liquor, chicken, and small wooden statues of elephants, tigers, and hedgehogs. As the gongs fill the air with their enchanting sounds, the shaman takes his place in front of the Puk hut to begin the ritual. He fervently prays to the gods of the sky, earth, and rain, beseeching them to bless the fields with abundant water for the crops to flourish. Water is a vital element for the rice to grow healthily,