Vietnam approves the extension of the validity of the e-Visa to 3 months

Vietnam approves the extension of the validity of the e-Visa to 3 months

Vietnam Visti

Good news for those who want to visit Vietnam

The National Assembly approved a proposal by the Vietnamese government to extend the validity of tourist e-Visas from 30 to 90 days and allow multiple entries for visitors.

The changes will go into effect on August 15, 2023.

Citizens of some Western European countries, Japan and South Korea, Vietnam’s main tourist markets, can now visit without a visa for 15 days.
They also triple the duration of visa-free stays to 45 days for visitors from certain countries, including Italy.

Vietnam currently offers e-Visas to citizens of 80 countries and territories and visa waivers for citizens of 25 countries, mostly for 15-30 days, a policy seen as less generous than other countries in its neighborhood.

In the first five months of this year, Vietnam received 4.6 million foreign visitors, more than half of the year’s target of eight million, but still just 63% of pre-pandemic levels.

For more information, write to sales.it@vietnamtravelandcruise.com

Or visit the ViaggiareSicuri website

https://vietnamtravelandcruise.com

VIETNAM – The TET festival (part 2)

VIETNAM – The TET festival (part 2)

Vietnam

As reported in the previous episode, for the Vietnamese the Tet is the most important event of the year. Their origins are remembered, family members are hugged and prayed together for the ancestors.

Every Vietnamese, wherever he has ended up for work reasons, will do everything to return to his birthplace to visit the tombs of his ancestors and spend this holiday with his family. The party is obviously then extended to each village, this means that the big cities become empty during this period and are particularly quiet.

The custom of firecrackers (which crackled continuously in the days before the Tet) was prohibited by the government due to its dangerousness. However, the tradition of the lion dance remains unchanged, performed on the streets by dancers and acrobats, accompanied by a large costume depicting a mythical monster with a lion’s head.

Obviously the whole festive period is accompanied by the preparation of typical traditional family dishes, in particular glutinous rice cakes, eggs and meat, which require a long time (about 12 hours) and the contribution of various family members who have to alternate between facing the fire.

New Year’s day is characterized by great binges and at the stroke of midnight we celebrate and try to make as much noise as possible to make the bad spirits escape for good. Immediately after we move on to prayer.

Once the new year begins, it is also very important that the first person to visit the house is the right one: possibly male, with a good character, rich, with a happy family and with many children. This first visit will be decisive for the fortunes of the entire year. So it is always better to wait for an invitation rather than surprise someone’s home, to avoid being an unwelcome guest and being kindly turned away by the host.

Happy Vietnamese New Year to everyone !!

VIETNAM – The TET festival (part 1)

VIETNAM – The TET festival (part 1)

Vietnam

In Vietnam, the lunisolar New Year, called Tet, is the most important holiday of the year: it is a sort of Christmas, New Year and Easter put together in a single celebration (it is also everyone’s birthday !!).

The date of the Tet is always between January 19 and February 20 and the atmosphere starts to get hectic. There are plants, flowers and various decorations for the home to buy. But also new clothes, especially for children, and if possible jewelry. You must stock up on food and other strictly necessary things as for many days every business will remain strictly closed.

Of course, we must also think about gifts. The Tet, like us Christmas is an opportunity for family reunions and to strengthen social ties, also through the exchange of gifts.

First, brand new banknotes must be bought (it is possible in the markets and from street vendors, at a price higher than their real value) to be inserted in the red envelopes to give to children and old people. Traditionally, the value of the banknotes contained in the envelopes must always be even, as the odd numbers are associated with the money that is given in the event of a funeral. Bills worth at least 2 dollars should therefore be given away.

It is also very common to give sprigs of peach trees, roosters, rice, rice wine in a pumpkin or in traditional amphorae, dogs and red things such as watermelons.

In the days leading up to the Tet all the houses are cleaned up. Doors and windows are kept wide open for days to let out all the “old” and “bad” and let the “new” in.

In front of the altar of the Ancestors (present in every Vietnamese house and which is completely decorated), a small mandarin tree is placed with the function of keeping evil spirits away.

The Tet has not yet arrived, but the preparations are many and continue, we will see others together in the next episode …

Street-food Vietnam – The Pho

Street-food Vietnam – The Pho

Vietnam

Pho is considered to be one of the most popular street food in all major Vietnamese cities and is among the best twenty dishes in the world according to Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Eatlist.

At any time of day or night, a steaming dish of pho is never difficult to find.

It is a noodle soup in a meat broth and today there is no dish that can better represent the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. It is usually accompanied by aromatic herbs, lime and spices and despite the apparent simplicity, pho is a harmonious set of flavors and textures.

The preparation, however, is more difficult than it seems: the mix of spices used (anise, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves) must be expertly balanced, then there are the noodles that make up the main part of the dish and a small amount of meat cut into very thin slices which is prepared separately and added to the broth only at the last moment.

Basil, mint, onion and coriander are then the final touch and the garnish of the dish.

Average cost of all this about 1 euro.

As in all important national issues, claims on the origin of the Pho and on the variations between north and south of Vietnam cannot miss.

Tradition however tells that it originated in the northern areas of the country and then spread to the rest of Vietnam.

The northern Pho (called Pho Bac) has a slightly saltier and stronger taste, the southern Pho (called Pho Nam) is prepared with thinner noodles and the vegetables are served separately.

When you find yourself in front of a steaming bowl of pho (whether you are in the north or south) squeeze the lime and pour the juice (seedless) into the broth, add broken chilli and spicy sauces as you like. We suggest to taste it when it is hot.

So chopsticks in one hand and spoon in the other and … enjoy your meal!

VIETNAM – The Golden Bridge

VIETNAM – The Golden Bridge

Vietnam

The Golden Bridge is a spectacular suspended pedestrian bridge located on the hills of Ba Na, near Danang, Vietnam. In Vietnamese it is called “Cầu Vàng”, literally translated “Golden Bridge”.

The main feature is given by the presence of two gigantic hands with the palm open and facing upwards that seem to support the wide catwalk. A unique scenic effect combined with the breathtaking view that can be enjoyed on the surrounding landscape.

The hands are about 24 meters high by 13 wide, therefore truly imposing and strong, even if finished so that they already look old and worn, to create contrast between modernity and tradition, the suspended and the bond to the mainland.

It is located at about 1.400 meters above sea level, in the Annamita mountain range, and can be reached by another exceptional work: the Ba Na Cable Car Service, the longest single cable car in the world (entered in the Guinness World Records), therefore a combination absolutely not to be missed. It is 5.801 meters long and this distance is covered in just 17 minutes.

An experience that allows you to combine two of the main attractions of central Vietnam with unforgettable panoramas.

7 reasons to visit Vietnam, one of the last communist countries on the planet

7 reasons to visit Vietnam, one of the last communist countries on the planet

Vietnam

Did you know that Vietnam extended the visa waiver for another three years, making traveling to the Southeast Asian nation much easier for travellers from the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Italy.

Vacationers from these four countries will be allowed to enter for up to 15 days without having to acquire documentation, while an electronic visa is required for travel up to 30 days.

Here, the7 reasons why you should take advantage of a trip without long paperwork in one of the last communist countries in the world.

  1. The ferment of Hanoi

What makes the capital so interesting is that it looks very old-fashioned, anchored to the past with its French colonial history, entrenched in its cafes, sidewalks, architecture and six of its wide tree-lined avenues. Take a ride aboard one of the thousands of tuk-tuk swarming the streets of the city to get an idea of ​​the daily frenzy that populates the city.

  1. Visit Ho Chi Minh

Not the city, but the man. The communist revolutionary and the first president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam lie embalmed in the mausoleum of Hanoi, erected in honor of the revolutionary’s death in 1969. The body lies in a cooled glass case, in one of the central rooms, through which visitors they pass silently to pay homage.

  1. Get ready and buy

Go to the commercial port of Hoi An – considered not only the tailoring capital of Vietnam, but of all Southeast Asia – and have a tailored suit made at the minimum cost of € 75. Leave with the empty suitcase on the way, so to be able to bring home a new and complete wardrobe.

  1. Navigate the Mekong

The famous river winds its way through Southeast Asia, but flows into the South China Sea in the Mekong Delta, south of Ho Chi Minh City. This is Vietnam in its most pastoral form. Here, over 1,000 species of animals live side by side in what is described as a “biological treasure”. If you are looking for a little more human interaction, take a boat to explore the floating markets.

  1. Admire Ho Chi Minh City from above

Ho Chi Minh City offers a stark contrast to the north of Hanoi. The bold southern city is all modern characterized by skyscrapers and new projects under construction. Find a rooftop bar in one of the many hotels to admire the city from above as the sunsets

  1. Find peace and serenity in a cave

Vietnam is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary underground treasures, with the country’s most famous cave, the gigantic Hang Son Doong. So large that it has its own weather system, the caves could house a 40-story skyscraper or let a Boeing 747 pass. Only 1,000 visitors are allowed into the caves each year. Other caves include the Tu Lan cave system, used in filming King Kong: Skull Island (2017) and Hang Va.

  1. Tet holiday or Vietnamese Lunar New Year

It is the most significant festival in Vietnam. Like Vietnam’s longest public holidays, Tet is a wonderful time for all tourists who can enjoy the festive atmosphere, exploring one of the oldest holidays in the world. Tet holiday 2020 is held from 25 to 27 January 2020 (New Year is the previous day).

Tet Holiday is celebrated to welcome the new year. It is considered an important sign for changes, plans and progress. Furthermore, the Vietnamese believe that what they do on the first day of the year will affect the whole year. Therefore, they pay close attention to every word they say and everything they do. In addition, Tet represents the only opportunity for all family members to spend happy moments together after a year of hard work.

FORMULA 1® has officially announced schedule of Formula 1 2020

FORMULA 1® has officially announced schedule of Formula 1 2020

An Hoi Gran Premio di Formula 1 Vietnam

F1 Vietnam Grand Prix will be hosted from 3rd April to 5th April 2020 in Hanoi, right after Melbourne (Australia), Bahrain circuit and before Shanghai (China) circuit!

Vietnam Travel & Cruise officially becomes the ticket agent of Formula 1® racing in Hanoi – April 2020.

Our packages are available and hotels are secured at most attractive prices.

Choices of accommodation are secured at good rate (limited rooms only)as well as some packages to discover Hanoi & Vietnam beauties

Free visa invitation letter for travel packages with Vietnam Travel & Cruise

Hurry up and own your tickets to experience full 3-day with adrenaline and intense performances.

Contact us for more information : Email: sales.it@vietnamtravelandcruise.com or direct to Hanoi office: info@vietnamtravelandcruise.com

 

 

Christmas in Hanoi, the most evocative and enchanting city in Vietnam, illuminated by colorful lanterns.

Christmas in Hanoi, the most evocative and enchanting city in Vietnam, illuminated by colorful lanterns.

Hanoi Vietnam

Christmas, in Vietnam, is an imported festive day, a bit like Halloween with us, as the majority of the population is Buddhist. Despite this, Christmas attracts more and more curiosity and appreciation from the new generations, enchanted and enchanted by the atmosphere full of joy that accompanies it.

The site does not have the white snow and the reindeer, but Santa Claus does not miss to visit the lively tourist town and the inhabitants celebrate with fervor. In all streets and shops you can admire the traditional Christmas trees decorated with lights and colors, Christmas packages with the most extravagant shapes, handcrafted products made of wood, ceramic or glass, figurines for the nativity scene.

At this time of year, it is common to see people dressed as Santa and reindeer antlers. The sound of merry Christmas carols is everywhere and Vietnamese residents exchange greetings and presents. In short, everything makes this unmissable stop even more beautiful and characteristic during the Christmas period

VIETNAM is also SAPA, the city in the fog

VIETNAM is also SAPA, the city in the fog

Sapa Vietnam

Sapa in the northwest of Vietnam, and 350 km northwest of Hanoi, near the border with China is famous for its beautiful landscapes and for its rich cultural diversity. The French regarded Sapa as the summer capital of North Vietnam in the early decades of the 20th century. Its natural beauty continues to attract more and more people to spend their holidays there.

 

The city of Sapa appears as a fantastic vision in the fog. With a height of 1,600 m above sea level, the average temperature in the area is always 15-18 ° C, cool in summer and colder in winter.

Sapa boasts a unique climate in Vietnam, determined by the seasons: subtropical in summer and temperate during the winter. The hottest months are July and August, while the coldest are December and January. Sometimes the snow falls on the highest peaks. Here you can live all 4 seasons in one day. This is, in reality, a unique advantage, making the city of Sapa different from any other part of the nation.

The city is also the starting point for many climbers and researchers who want to discover Fansipan, which with 3,143 m in height is the highest mountain in Vietnam. In the shape of a pyramid, it is covered with clouds all year round.

Sapa is also famous for its special cultural diversity, an expression of the presence of numerous ethnic minorities, and visitors have the opportunity to discover the unique customs of local residents. Local markets are typically cultural elements of the city.

Vietnam Mon Amour: an edge of the Orchid and Azalea Cruise cruises the discovery of the most suggestive bays in the country is even more fascinating and comfortable !!!

Vietnam Mon Amour: an edge of the Orchid and Azalea Cruise cruises the discovery of the most suggestive bays in the country is even more fascinating and comfortable !!!

Halong Bay Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, North Vietnam, one of the seven natural wonders of the world …

The bay is dotted with 1,600 limestone islands and islets, mysterious caves and covers an area of ​​over 1,500 sq. Km. This extraordinary area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

The most traditional way to explore the bay is on a cruise. In the list of “must have” trips of the month, we suggest two new cruises on board of “Orchid and Azalea Cruise” – offering the highest level of service, a relaxing atmosphere, for  those looking for something more in the services offered by these places.

All well-designed cabins are luxurious and well-appointed, all with private balconies from which you can enjoy the beauty of Ha Long Bay – Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha. The large windows open onto wonderful views from the sea allow you to enjoy a private view directly from the balcony of your cabin. A really fantastic feeling.

In addition, for those who wish, in the morning you have the opportunity to participate at the Tai Chi lesson led by an expert Master of the discipline. Squid fishing is the special activity on board.For those who want to improve their culinary art,   have the opportunity to participate in cooking classes. These lessons of 1/2 hours, allow guests the total immersion in the fascinating world of Vietnamese cuisine through the expert guidance and advice of the onboard Chef. It is important to remember that the onboard kitchen offers a variety of foods and the perfect combination of Asian and European cuisine. What are you waiting for … Vietnam on a cruise awaits you !!!