Is Vietnam the Most Diverse Country For Backpackers?

From the steep rice terraces of Sapa to the limestone karsts of Halong Bay and the rolling sand dunes of Mui Ne to the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam has some of the most diverse landscapes in South East Asia. You can be trekking in the mountains one day and sunbathing on a sandy beach the next, then whizzing around on a motorbike through the hectic streets of a buzzing city the following day!

Maybe it’s Vietnam’s spectacular variety that makes it one of the most popular countries in South East Asia for backpackers to travel. If you’re planning to a trip to this country, you’re in for a treat! Here are five reasons why Vietnam has something to suit every backpacker…

1.Mountain Trekking:

Fansipan Peak

Head north from Hanoi via overnight train for some incredible trekking experiences where you’ll walk amidst misty mountains and rice terraces from one hill tribe village to the next. The hill town resort of Sapa is a good starting point, as well as the more remote Mai Chau Valley and Ba Be National Park. Also worth visiting are the beautiful central highlands, known as the ‘Alps of Vietnam’ where you can base yourself in the quirky town of Dalat and explore on foot or bicycle from there. Rafting, rock climbing, canyoning and kayaking are also available!

2.Beach Bumming:

Phu Quoc Beach

Tropical white sandy beaches don’t instantly come to mind when you think of Vietnam – with beach hungry backpackers tending to head first to neighbouring Thailand. Don’t fall into the same trap! Vietnam’s long coastline is filled with incredible beaches and islands that will satisfy any beach bum. From the picturesque coves shadowed by impossible limestone cliffs at Cat Ba National Park to the long stretches of sand at Hoi An and Nha Trang – Vietnam is a great place to enjoy sun, sea, sand and cocktails! There’s also the interesting island of Phu Quoc just a few hours south of Ho Chi Minh City with fishing villages and beaches galore!

3.City Buzz:

Hanoi Old Quarter

There’s nowhere quite like Vietnam’s capital Hanoi in the north of the country for its intoxicating atmosphere. From the moment you arrive you will be energized by its pulsating vibe and over a thousand years of culture and history. Winding streets, buzzing street life, the smell of spicy street food, eclectic architecture and a million motorbikes make this city an assault on all of the senses. In the south, Ho Chi Minh city has a more cosmopolitan feel – eat crab and drink cheap beer from the street vendors in one area of the city and treat yourself in swanky restaurants, trendy bars and lively clubs in the next!

4.Culture, Museums, Art and Food:

Hoi An Ancient Town

Vietnam has an incredibly rich culture that cannot fail to entice visitors. Wander through the streets of UNESCO World Heritage City, Hoi An, appreciating influences from over five centuries of world trading with the Chinese, Dutch, French and Indians. In the nearby city of Hue, don’t miss the ancient Imperial Hue Citadel, an important part of Vietnamese history as well as the ‘Tombs of the Former Emperors’. Vietnam is also home to world famous museums such as the ‘American War Museum’ in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi. Plus, you can even visit the tomb of the worshipped leader, Ho Chi Minh himself in Hanoi. After all that culture, make sure you relax with a bia hoi (beer) and try local delicacies such as pho bo (beef noodle soup), banh mi (vietnamese style sandwich) and goi cuon (spring rolls).

5.Off the Beaten Track:

Phong Nha - Ke Bang

This incredible country offers plenty of opportunity for off the beaten track adventures. One region, which is only just being discovered by backpackers, is Phong Nha National Park – with amazing scenery, a local way of life and loads of adventure sports such as kayaking, rafting, mountain biking, hiking and caving. Raging rivers, spectacular waterfalls, swimming lagoons, rugged mountains and of course the world’s biggest cave (Hang Son Doong) make this region one of the most exciting adventure capitals in South East Asia.

What do you need to know before you go to Vietnam?

AloTrip promotion

To enter the country you will need a visa, which needs to be arranged in advance. Do you want to travel to Vietnam and get a totally FREE Visa on Arrival (VOA)? We just discovered this promotion from Vietnam Airlines, which grants you a free Visa when you book any flight. Book flights from 49 USD, this great offer is available until 30th December 2015. (Offer is worth 20 USD / per passenger and a whole lot of time and hassle saved!)

*VOA is actually an 'approval letter' - which means you can get a Vietnam Visa stamped upon arrival at an international airport (Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh) which will save you time in pre-arranging a visa at a Vietnamese Embassy. This great feature is offered by AloTrip.

Romance in Hoi An Ancient Town

Not too dignified as Hue Citadel, vibrant as Cholon in Saigon, Hoi An Ancient Town creates imprints in visitors' mind with the shy beauty of a traditional young woman who is extremely pure but passionate and romantic.

Hoi An

Not only beautiful sightseeing spots, the passionate and romance seems to have become the soul of Hoi An Ancient Town. Tourists in Vietnam tour packages to Hoi An can catch the soul and image of romance everywhere in the town. They are moss green roofs tinted time's color, the shimmering colors of lanterns, sophisticated sculptural wood in houses existing for more than three hundred years, the elegance of street vendors. In particular, the ancient town owns a romance, profoundness and serenity in the magical light of lanterns on the14th night of every lunar month. In the past, if the Vietnamese people are familiar with peanut oil lamp, the Japanese and Chinese people came to Hoi An and brought the habit of using lanterns.

Hoi An

In Hoi An tours, travelers will be enticed by shimmering colors of lanterns. The initiative of lighting by lantern instead of electrical light from autumn 1988 brought incredible effects. On every 14th night monthly, all daily routine of the serene ancient town come back to the habit of over 300 years ago. Streets from Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, Le Loi and Bach Dang, all modern light turned off, and the entire streets immerse in the shimmering and vivid lanterns' light. When cities, urban areas are losing the moonlight by skyscrapers and artificial lights, in Hoi An, the moonlight is still intact. The moonlight makes the old town more beautiful, sparkling and romantic... In Hoi An, moonlight is seen from every conner. The Moon in Hoi An is not covered by high buildings. Also, there are no colorful advertising lights of billboards. Contemplating the moonlight in Hoi An Old Town is very interesting. Each step of moving, tourists will recognize the different view of the moon as the different town's space and architectures. Once admiring the moonlight in Hoi An, the image will remain forever in tourists' mind.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Although being shone by normal ways, the light of lanterns is gently dim and subtle with time-honored imprints. Colorful lanterns in round and hexagonal shapes with Chinese styles are hung under the terrace roof, and along two sides of the main door. Lanterns in Hoi An with various shapes and colors create a magical and sparking world in Hoi An. This makes Hoi An Town more romantic, which enters the soul of each people here. In an old house, the image of a lady in Ao dai working with the lantern light is created by a simple fish trap. On the pavement, two old men are entice by the Chinese chess in the candle light. Seemingly, people in Hoi An City is still living with nostalgia when the annoyances of modern life have not appeared. That is a wonderful experience in enjoying unforgettable Vietnam holidays in Hoi An.

Children and candle flowers Hoi An

In Vietnam tours to Hoi An, visitors will recognized that Hoi An Ancient Town is more beautiful, more profound and peaceful in the flower candle festival. To preserve the beauty of the cultural heritage, people in Hoi An stop using electrical appliances such as TV, radio, street lights, neon lights on the 14th night of every lunar month. Instead, the entire town will be put on a colorful and warm light layer reflecting from the vivid ribbons through the glass window and paper lanterns along the streets. In the fairy life, let's check the appearance by tasting some typical local dishes at long-lasting restaurants which remain features of the past.

Hoi An

At FaiFo Restaurant on Tran Phu Street, lovely and classic lanterns with warm light in the harmony with larger ones in front of the entrance make the restaurant more unique. Unlike FaiFo, the Treated coffee shop has different decoration. At the cafe, the owner has the wooden ceiling gouged and decorated by simple bamboo leaves. The holes on the ceiling with bamboo leaves make interesting lights, creating a unique space of this cafe. Because not all shop holders in Hoi An are brave enough to have their stores' ceiling gouged. Tourists can see lanterns every where in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Depending on the materials of lanterns' outer, the light of lanterns will be different. It can be lucky red, happy yellow, lovely clouded, or cool green. However, it is hard to compare with century-old lanterns kept by local families for a long time. They just show these lanterns in candle flower festival. These lanterns were made of precious wood and meticulously sculptured with a real art work on glass. Famous folk stories are reflected on glass lively and perfectly as a precious picture. When the candle inside is shone, images printed on glass will appear. The scene and magical light of lantern in the old town mingled with all music sounds create an exotic attraction of Hoi An romance.

Information from: AloTrip

Top best resorts in Vietnam for honeymoon

All selected resorts in Vietnam meet the criteria of far away from the city center, separated from crowded accommodations, having more private space, and reasonable price. Depending on the demand of relaxation in Vietnam holidays, each tourists will have different choices. If you travel with family and children, you should stay at resorts near the city center. If you travel in a group of friends, let's choose to stay at large hotels or resorts with reasonable price. And, if you are enjoying your honeymoon, it is highly recommended to stay at a serene space. 8 suggestions of best resorts Vietnam as below will be ideal choices for couples.

1. AVANI Quy Nhon Resort & Spa

Resort Vietnam Avani resort Quy Nhơn 

Located 15km from Quy Nhon City in Binh Dinh, AVANI Quy Nhon Resort & Spa is a "separate sky", ensuring the serenity and relaxation. All rooms in this resort are spacious, modern and well-designed with light colors. Guests can contemplate the sunrise without leaving the bed. It is highly recommended to choose rooms on high floor to have more wonderful view. In the resort, there are many entertainment services such as swimming at outdoor pool, kayaking, wind-surfing, massage, meditation, Yoga, and other interesting activities...

2. An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas, Nha Trang

Resort Vietnam An Lam Villas Nha Trang 

An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas is situated in Ninh Van Bay, stretching more than 1,500 meters along Nha Trang Beach. The resort is designed with both wild natural and modern architecture. All 35 villas in this resort have spacious atmosphere. To ensure the privacy, each villa has a private butler. This resort is an ideal place for couples who want to enjoy their Vietnam tours as honeymoons or personal relaxation moments to unwind and forget stress and tiredness after a long period of hard working.

3. Amiana Resort Nha Trang

Resort Vietnam Amiana Nha Trang 

Amiana Resort Nha Trang is located on Pham Van Dong Street, about 12km from Tran Phu Street. The hotel has 113 rooms. From 48-meter rooms to luxury beach front villas, all are designed in pure natural philosophy with furniture made from local materials to create harmony and refinement. Amiana once was chosen as the scene of several movies, and wedding venue of many celebrities.

4. MerPerle Hon Tam Resort, Nha Trang

Resort Vietnam Hon Tam Nha Trang 

MerPerle Hon Tam Resort has a friendly environment in Nha Trang Bay, about 5km from the city center. This resort is designed in villa style. All is made of wood with beachfront view, which helps guests to mingle with wild nature and the surrounding landscapes. It mainly uses natural energy to reduce environmental impact, use rainwater, solar, and wind to create electricity and water.

5. Bai Tram Hideaway Resort, Phu Yen

Resort Vietnam Bai Tram Phu Yen 

Like its name, Bai Tram Hideaway Resort is a space for guests to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a wonderful summer vacation. Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen) is a peaceful city, which is more specified at the resort. The closed and fully equipped resort will help you not to worry about anything. Guests can easily visit other attractions in this city.

6. Vedana Lagoon Wellness Resort & Spa, Hue

Resort Vietnam Vedana Lagoon Wellness Resort Hue

Being voted as one of the best hotels in Vietnam, Vedana Lagoon Wellness Resort & Spa in Hue will bring a sense of relaxation to tourists when immersing in the cool water and admire the nature. Located in the Tam Giang Lagoon, about 40km from Hue City center, Vedana Lagoon Wellness Resort & Spa is a quiet place to relax completely. The spacious bungalows built on water surface with modern design and fully equipped with traditional accents. It would be great if you get up early a little, cycle and admire the dawn here. Do not miss the cooking class with traditional Hue dishes. There are shuttles to downtown and to Phu Bai International Airport.

7. Topas Ecolodge Sapa

Resort Vietnam Topas Ecolodge Sapa

On crowded public holidays, when Sapa Town is full of travelers, you can still find a private space named Topas Ecolodge Resort, located about 20 km of winding road and majestic mountains from the center. It is suitable for those who love nature and want to enjoy everything that nature provides. The resort is completely isolated from the modern world, but still fully equipped. This is where the boss of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg stayed in his Vietnam travel.

8. Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa, Dalat

Resort Vietnam Ana Mandara Villas Dalat

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa is the chain of old French villas, close to the city center about 4 km, nestled between pine forests. In the morning, the atmosphere is surrounded by only the sound of birds singing melodiously. The villas have spacious campus. Some villas have ancient fireplaces. Each villas has a large living room. Coming here, you will have a feeling of living in Europe - beautiful, romantic, and ancient. It is highly recommended to choose villas on hills to have more wonderful view.

These above mentioned accommodations are the best resorts inVietnam for honeymoon. With reasonable price, high-qualtity service, and wonderful landscapes, honeymoons or family holidays in Vietnam will be unforgettable. At presetn, AloTrip – a famous and reputable travel company (official site as AloTrip.com) is providing a series of latest information about hotels and resorts in Vietnam to enjoy summer holidays. In addition, there is a wide range of cheap tickets to Vietnam shown up on their site to meet tourists’ demend. Let’s have a plan on traveling Vietnam and enjoy your life!

Source: AloTrip

10 most popular questions about Son Doong Cave

Son Doong becomes one of the hottest destinatons in Vietnam tour packages from 2014. Since the introduction of Son Doong Cave on ABC program of the US - Good Morning America, many questioned are raised about Son Doong tours - the tours of exploring the biggest cave in the world.

1. When was Son Doong discovered?

In 1991, a local man named Ho Khanh came to Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park to collect firewood and suddenly got lost in a strange area where there was a huge cave in the limestone mountain cliff with a giant ceiling hole full of sunlight. He also recognized that there is a river running into the cave. Yet, until April 2009, as the request of a caving exploration team from UK, Mr. Ho Khanh could find the cave again and instructed the exploration team led by Howart Limbert to discover Son Doong Cave.

Son Doong Cave

2. Where Son Doong's name comes from?

In Vietnam tours to Phong Nha Ke Bang, tourists who are introduced about Son Doong often wonder the name the the world’s biggest cave. Initially, Son Doong was named Ho Khanh as he discovered the cave. Later, it was suggested to change the name into “Sơn Đoòng” because the cave hides behind majestic mountains of Đoòng Village, and because there is a river running in the cave.

3. Why is Son Doong the world's biggest cave?

Son Doong Cave has the length of about 5km, the height of 200m, and the wide of 150m. According to Conde Nast Traveler, the cave can occupy a big house in Manhattan, US equivalent to a 40-floor building. Inside the cave, there is a separate ecosystem formed by the sunlight from ceiling holes and clouds. The stalagmites in Son Doong Cave reach the height of nearly 80m. The lime stones sized baseballs scatter throughout the cave floor. The spectacular underground scenery shows that there are many beautiful landscapes in the world to discovery.

Son Doong Cave

4. How does it cost a Son Doong tour?

There are two rates of tours to Son Doong exploited by a travel agent: about 3,000 USD for foreign traveler and 64.5 million dong for Vietnamese traveler. The rate is being applied for the whole year of 2015. In 2014, there were about 500 travelers visiting Son Doong. Since the beginning of 2015, the number is about 200 travelers. To serve a Son Doong tour of 10 people, there is a support of more than 30 people. Apart from porters bringing supplies and cooking, there are caving experts and safety experts in Son Doong tours.

5. How to visit Son Doong?

To take part in Vietnam tours to Son Doong, you have to register with the travel agent and wait for your turn. However, travelers have to undergo two severe theory and practice tests. If not passing the tests, travelers cannot join tours to Son Doong. It is because Son Doong exploration is adventure tours. During the journey, travelers have to walk more than 50km through jungles, rough routes, big stone blocks... Explorers will sleep in rents and have a bath according to the preparation of the travel agent. Travelers will join a tour without modern facilities, like a wild life.

Exploring Soon Doong Cave

6. When is the best time to visit Son Doong?

The best time to travel Son Doong is from February to August. The rest months are rainy season, which is very dangerous to travelers. From February to April, the weather in Son Doong is very cool. It is perfect to discover the cave. Yet, it is a little cold at night. From May to August, it is hot and humid weather. Therefore, travelers have to prepare a good health before the trip.

7. What to bring from Son Doong?

It is a big note that travelers must not take any thing from Son Doong. Travelers are not allowed to litter, break trees, defoliate leaves, absolutely not touch anything in the cave when the experts have not allowed, because the stalactites are still in process of formation, just a touch can make stalactite stop the development process. It is important that what you bring into the cave must be brought out. Not touching the stalactites also protects your health because many things in the cave have not checked.

Son Doong

8. How long of waiting for a Son Doong tour?

Tours to Son Doong is full for the year of 2015. If you want to register for the next year's tour, you have to wait for the specific evaluation of experts about the affection of tours to the environment. If the affection is high and affects the ecosystem of the cave, the travel company will stop tours to reserve the original beauty of Son Doong Cave. However, it is no hopeless about Son Doong tours. If having enough financial budget and health, do not hesitate to book a tour to Son Doong. If some one quits the tour in the last minutes, you may be chosen.

9. Is it available private tours to Son Doong?

Any individual or organization visiting Son Doong without the allowance of the management board of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is seen to violate the law. Thus, you can join the adventure tour with the travel company having the right. It is the best way.

10. What about other attractions beside Son Doong?

During the waiting time for taking part in tours to Son Doong Cave, you can choose other tours such as Phong Nha Ke Bang tours to caves of Tu Lan, Swallow Cave, Paradise Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park has many interesting services for tourists to enjoy Vietnam holidays in this national park.

Source: AloTrip

Top breathtaking attractions in Hue

Located in a narrow land in Central Vietnam, Hue is the capital of Thua-Thien Hue Province. The city used to be the capital of Nguyen Dynasty – the last feudal domination in Vietnam. And, the historical relics of the dynasty is well-known as Hue Citdadel – the World Cultural Heritage recognized by UNESCO, as well as one of the most outstanding attractions in Hue. In Vietnam tours to Hue, travelers are not just enticed by historical time-honored tourist sites, but also beautiful and romantic natural landscapes and seascapes. Let’s pop in these beautiful sightseeing and feel all treasure bestowed by the nature here.

Lang Co Bay

Lang Co Beach

Possessing primitive mountains and an exciting pace of coastal life with bustling atmosphere of boats and ships, Lang Co Bay – one of the most beautiful bays in the world – attracts visitors at the first sight when coming here. On arriving at Lang Co Bay, visitors will be overwhelmed by the turquoise water, yellow smooth sandy beach, and red houses' roofs amid thin fog, along with fishing boats. All creates a very impressive and attractive scenery. Lang Co Bay belongs to Hue, but it is just about 25km from Da Nang to the north. It is the first stopover of any tours in Hue. The bay looks like a sweety greeting of the poetic city. Most of tourists coming to Lang Co are enticed by interesting activities such as fishing, diving, climbing, or exploring jungles, along with tasting delicious seafood and visiting Lang Co Fishing Village.

Perfume River - Ngu Binh Mountain

Huong River

For a long time, Ngu Mountain and Perfume River are top things to see in Hue. Being one of typical symbol of Hue, Perfume River and Ngu Mountain are seen as long-lasting couple. They always appear together. Two attractions make people imagine a romantic and poetic scenery with a river winding around mountains and hills. Once visiting Hue, it will not be completed if not having a chance to listen to traditional folk songs on Perfume River. At night, Perfume River appears in peace and romance, creating a strange and special feeling. In Hue tours, travelers can recognize that Ngu Binh Mountain and Huong River create a stunning terrain for this place. Together with Huong River, Ngu Binh mountain is an special gift presented to Hue by nature. The river and the mountain all together created a charming beauty to the Citadel.

Thuan An Beach

Thuan An Beach

Thuan An Beach with gentle waves and cool turquoise seawater is the place where Perfume River runs to Tam Giang Lagoon, then flows to the South China Sea. In Vietnam tour packages to Hue, travelers, apart from freely immersing in the cool and clear blue water of Thuan An Beach, can hire a rent to make a camp on the beach. That will be an ideal chance for travelers to contemplate the sea at night with serenity and magic. In addition, travelers have an opportunity to taste fresh and delicious seafood dishes, which makes the trip more interesting and unforgettable.

Nhi Ho Waterfall

Nhi Ho Waterfall belongs Hoa Mau Hamlet, Loc Tri Commune, about 45km to the south of Hue City, about nearly 4km from National Route 1A. Nhi Ho Waterfall is a marvelous "masterpiece" of the Nature. Water from the fall flows down, and forms two lakes beneath. For a long time, Nhi Ho attracts a large number of tourists, especially the youth. Travelers coming here to escape the summer heat, immerse in the nature, and enjoy various local specialties. Specifically, the location of Nhi Ho Waterfall is convenient for travelers to visit other attractions such as Truoi Dam, Elephant Stream, and Lang Co.

Ham Rong Beach

Situating at Vinh Hien Commune in Phu Loc District, Ham Rong Beach is an indispensable stopover in Hue travel. Once coming here, travelers always want to drop by again. Although Ham Rong Beach has not been famous as Lang Co Beach, Canh Duong Beach, and Thuan An Beach, it has a beautiful location with the appearance of Linh Thai Mountain of nearly 800 meters, evergreen jungles winding the beach. Here, there are three beaches of Ham Rong Beach, Dong Duong Beach, and Dam Beach. Besides, the seawater of Ham Rong Beach is always turquoise and spotted by a stone field of all sizes, which creates a beautiful natural scenery. Travelers can freely immerse in the cool water, relax, and release all stress.

Bach Ma Mountain

Bach Ma mountain

Bach Ma Mountain or Bach Ma Mountain Ranage is a beautiful mountain chain in Bach Ma National Park. It is the natural border between Hue Province and Da Nang City. Coming to Bach Ma, apart from admiring the immense primitive area and the majestic Bac Ma Mountain, travelers have a chance to visit a very diverse natural world. Specifically, standing on the peak of Bach Ma Mountain, travelers can contemplate the entire spectacular view of Hai Van Pass, Tuy Van Mountain, Cau Hai Lagoon, and shimmering Hue City at night – top points of interest in Hue.

Tam Giang Lagoon

Tam Giang lagoon

Being famous as the biggest lagoon in South East Asia, about 12km from Hue City, Tam Giang Lagoon belongs to Phong Dien District, Quang Dien District, and Huong Tra District. The lagoon brings in itself a pristine, serene and hard-to-resist beauty. Travelers popping in Tam Giang never want to miss a chance to contemplate the beauty of Tam Giang Lagoon at dawn. That is an amazing and unique moment when ending a day tour in Hue.

Source: AloTrip

Xam singing is a unique traditional folk music in Vietnam

Xam singing is a folk music genre which was previously circulated mainly in Northern provinces of Vietnam such as Bac Giang, Hanoi, Ha Dong, Haiphong, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa... with unique performances featuring regional cultural characteristics. Later, due to wrong opinions, Xam singing disappeared, and it was put in danger. Acknowledging the great artistic value of Xam singing, a group of researchers restored successfully Xam singing - the unique traditional Vietnam folk music. Having a chance to explore more about traditional folk culture in general and traditional folk music in particular is an interesting in any Vietnam tours.
Vicissitudes of Xam singing

Xam Artists

Xam singing is a unique folk performing art which was born in over 700 years ago. Besides artistic values, Xam singing is a Vietnam folk music with humane, aesthetic features, ethical education and lifestyles of all strata of Vietnam society. Late 19th century and early 20th century is the heyday of Xam singing. At the time, it was not just simply a recreational activity of peasants, but also a way to make one's living in cities. It was taught from generation to generation. In the popularity of Xam singing, some blind or poor people who had the talent of music took advantage of Xam singing to earn a living. Since then, Xam singing became the "specialty" of the poor. The number of Xam singers was highest in the French occupation and early years of French resistance war.It is said that Xam singing was a spiritual "meal" of labor force for a long time. It mentioned many fields and contexts of daily life, and society. Not only does Xam singing the public, but also at events of weddings, funerals, and death's anniversary... One of the unique features of Xam singing art is a communication channel with a very powerful voice. During the resistance wars against the French and the US, Xam appeared and brought its role into play significantly. To encourage heroic struggle spirit of soldiers, the Xam singing artist Minh Sen (in Thanh Hoa) performed in battles to bring happiness to soldiers. And, Xam singing artist - Ha Thi Cau in Ninh Binh - is dubbed the last Xam singer of the 20th century. She composed the Xam song "Theo Dang tron doi" (Follow Party forever), even though she is illiterate. In the mid-20th century, Xam singing was associated with famous artists such as Nguyen Van Nguyen, Vu Duc Sac, Than Duc Chinh, Nguyen Phong Sac, Trum Khoan, Chanh Truong Mau, Dao Thi Man, Tran Thi Nhon, Tran Thi Thin, Nguyen Van Khoi, and other unknown artists. However, up until now, few artists of Xam singing exist, especially the artist considering Xam singing as a day job is Mrs. Ha Thi Cau the youngest wife of Truong Chanh Mau in Ninh Binh. From the 60s onwards, for different reasons Xam singing in Vietnam gradually disintegrated and not active anymore. Xam talented artists are too old. They gradually pass away and bring along unique artistic values of the art. Social life of Xam artists does no longer exist, Xam singing art has been forgotten, almost lost.
Origin of Xam singing

Xam performance

According to document, Xam singing came into being in the 14th century. From its appearance to the first half of the 20th century, Xam singing was called different names like busking or troubadours. But in fact, Xam singing is a professional folk music genre, a unique oratorio style in traditional Vietnam music treasure with a deep, ingenious and attractive storytelling. In the feudal period, Xam singing was the voice of protesting and condemning the injustices, oppression, and vices of society. After wars, Xam folk songs were used as tools to promulgate policies and guidelines of the Party and State.Todays, in Vietnam tour packages in Hanoi, travelers have more chance to admire the unique art on old streets of the Vietnam’s capital. Xam singing is often performed on Hang Dao Street in Hanoi Old Quarter. It is said that Xam singing has eight main tunes: X©m chã, X©m xoan, Huê tình, X©m nhà trò, Nï oán, Hò bÑn mùa, Hát ai, and Th­p ân. In Hanoi, there is a unique Xam singing style found nowhere - Xam singing on trams. Previously, to meet the satisfaction of audience, Xam singing artists added famous poems in Xam songs, which made the art become a second-to-none street music in Thang Long - Hanoi. In the system of Xam singing tunes, there are special and outstanding melodies which are often borrowed by other Vietnam art such as Cheo singing, Ca Tru singing... In the past, Xam singing was also performed in assembly halls. It proves that artists of Ca Tru singing respect Xam singing very much. They keep the word "Xam" in this tune, pointing out the origin of the melody.

Mrs. Ha Thi Cau

Up until now, many people think that Xam singing is the singing style of the blind or beggars. In fact, the disadvantaged people use Xam singing to make their living. Therefore, Xam singing is a professional music type. The difference is that Xam singing stages are streets, banyan tree, berth, and courtyard... In the past, Xam singing was associated with daily life of Vietnamese peasants. Normally, after the harvest, Xam singing groups were invited to perform in rich households.Among Vietnamese traditional music, only Xam singing is regarded as a job to earn a living. As being a product of working men, the music characteristics are rustic and sincere, but possess profound ideological contents. Xam singing lyrics are not only rich in genres such as folk songs, proverbs, and poems of famous authors, but also very diverse in terms of content. The lyrics of Xam imply ethical teachings in life. The unique thing of Xam is that even though the content is about love, nature, war, or public relations... the Xam singing artists "tell" by a witty, catchy, and easy-to-remember music. The art really needs reserving and promoting by later generations. Source: http://www.alotrip.com

A memorable trip to Pirate Island Vietnam

Pirate Island, also known as Ha Tien Islands in Kien Giang, is a strange destination. Pirate Island is the name of an Archipelago of 16 islands. The biggest island is Hon Tre Island (Hon Doc) in Tien Hai Commune of Ha Tien District. It is about 28km from Ha Tien Beach, and 40km from Phu Quoc Island. With the special name, travelers in Vietnam tours to Kien Giang can somehow image about the past in this island. Due to situating from Ha Tien - Rach Gia Gulf to the Gulf of Thailand, an important trading route from China to Western countries, from centuries ago, the archipelago was an ideal place for pirates to shelter and attack merchantman.

Hon Heo

Until early 20th century, piracy remains rife here. It was not just an obsession of many ships, but also was regarded as a place of a treasure. Some people think it is a rumor, while other do not believe. It is said that in 80s of the last century, there was an invasion in this island with the purpose of looking for the treasure. There is a story about a 300-year-old map to look for the treasure and a great volume of ancient coin, which makes Pirate Island more special and attractive. Todays, apart from the curiosity by its name, travelers coming to Ha Tien Islands, Vietnam tour packages from Ho Chi Minh City, to explore a unique primitive beauty.

The best time to travel Pirate Island Vietnam is in spring when the sea is turquoise with gentle waves, which is suitable for those who often get seasick. Beaches in Kien Giang are not directly affected much by storm, but the rainfall volume is quite high. Before the trip to Ha Tien, it is necessary to pay attention to follow the weather forecast. From Saigon, it is easy to approach Ha Tien by mini bus, visit attractions in Ha Tien, and then travel to Pirate Island. The only way to get to Pirate Island is by water. Travelers can buy tickets at Ha Tien Wharf. There are two turns from Ha Tien to Pirate Island and vice versa, at 9:00AM and 15:00PM. It is highly recommended to arrive the wharf early to buy tickets. It costs about 50,000VND per turn. However, according to the latest news, from May 7 to the end of May, there is only one turn to Pirate Island per day, as one ship had to stop to maintain. The turn from Ha Tien to Pirate Island departs at 14:00, and from the island to Ha Tien at 9:00 AM of the next morning. Therefore travelers should arrange a suitable timetable if having intention to visit the island during the time. It is suggested that, you should call to ask for information in advance. It takes about one hour and 30 minutes to travel from Ha Tien to Pirate Island.

How to get there

Pirate Island

In this island, you can ride a bike or a motorbike to get around without worrying about gettingl lost. There is only one road in this island, one side is immense sea, and another side is majestic mountains. In addition, you can get around the the island by motor-taxi, about 50,000VND/pax. Local motor-taxi riders are very friendly and hospitable. They are willing to act as a tour guide for all travelers. Moreover, if you have more time, you can hire a small boat to travel around the archipelago. The rate of hiring a boat for 10 person is about 300,000 - 400,000 VND/boat .

Where to stay

Ha Tien Islands

Many travelers coming to Pirate Island and shared that there were no services in this island, which is the most attracting thing here. At present, there are no hotels in Pirate Island. There are guesthouses only of local people. It costs about 50,000VND/night. In case, you are going on a picnic here, you can bring tent to make a camp on the beach. However, the island still lacks fresh water and electricity. Electricity in this island is provided by generator. Electricity is available in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. After 9pm, electricity will be cut off. You should prepare another battery in emergency. Food and belongings of people on the island are transported from the mainland; therefore, you should prepared some before going. If you want to experience the local life, you can order to stay with local people - homestay.

What to do

Ha Tien Beach

Pirate Archipelago has 16 islands, including Hon Keo Ngua, Hon Kien Vang, Hon Tre Lon, Hon Tre Vinh, Hon Gui, Hon U, Hon Giang, Hon Cho Ro, Hon Duoc Non, Hon Bo Dap, and Hon Doi Mo... Among those, Hon Tre Lon Island is the center of Tien Hai Island (Pirate Island). The island is portrayed by white smooth sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Here, you can freely immerse in the cool water, or participate in sea sport activities, explore colorful undersea world by scuba diving. The next stopover that you should not to miss when visiting here is the sovereignty milestone carved with 16 islands' names of Pirate Islands.

Most area of this island is covered by forest. Some places adjacent to sea water are barren and pristine cliffs. Here, apart from exploring and listening to stories about origin of the island's name told by locals, you will have a chance to experience natural landscapes with pristine and fresh atmosphere. One of indispensable things to do in Vietnam holidays in Pirate Island is squid fishing at night. If you are staying with local people, you can ask them for going with them to find new experiences.

In this island, there are many fresh and delicious seafood. Yet, at present, there are less restaurants and food stalls serving tourists in this island. travelers come here can make reservation in advance with locals then pay them money. Seafood here is provided by local people. Otherwise, you can come to the fishing port in the early morning to buy newly caught seafood.

Let’s discover the “strange” island with AloTrip – a reputable travel company, tourists will find many interesting things. At present, AloTrip is providing a series of information about traveling Vietnam this summer, especially information about ticket promotion to Ho Chi Minh City. Do not waste your time on choosing where to go this summer; Pirate Island in Vietnam is looking forwards to your exploration!

Source: AloTrip

Why to try Halong and Phan Thiet seaplanes?

Enjoying spectacular views from high-above level or stunning feel when landing on water surface is a wonderful experience on seaplanes in Vietnam. Although having come into being and been exploited in recent time, seaplane flight service in Vietnam creates a definitely and peerage and unique experience for tourists in these Vietnam holidays. Most modern seaplane

Seaplane flight services in Vietnam are using Seaplane Cessna Grand Caravan EX - the most modern seaplane of the United States. The brand of Cessna Caravan C208 EX 2014 was numbered VN-B68 and VN-B469, and the latest one as VN-B466. The aircraft has the maximum capacity of 12 passengers. It reaches the speed of 300km/h. The seaplane can take off and land at normal airport and on the surface of water. In June 2014, Hai Au Aviation is the only airline receiving three seaplanes of Cessna in Wichita Kansas and flied to Wipaire Inc in St. Paul (Minnesota) to install Wipline 8750 float. Then, the seaplane took about 60 hours to fly from California, Hawaii, Marshall and Philippines to Vietnam. VIP check-in counters Passengers in Vietnam tours packages using seaplanes will not be worried about queuing at the airport to check-in. They will be supported by attentive staff to complete the check-in procedure in at a separate area without waiting. In addition, the information of passengers is prepared before. They just come to get the tickets. Private shuttle After finishing all procedure, passengers will be instructed to move to shuttle service area to travel to the seaplane. The flight crew includes foreign captain and Vietnamese co-pilot who will be waiting for passengers to welcome passengers on board. Sightseeing from high above

The seaplane has two seats for flight crew and 12 seats for passengers. It also has a wide windows, which facilitates passengers to contemplate the seascapes and landscapes from the height of 150-3,000 meters above the sea level. With the speed of 260km/h, the plane will not just save the time to travel to famous tourist sites, but also possesses a wonderful view from low level bringing a unique experience to passengers. In addition, tourists can enjoy the magnificent view of thousands of islands and islets with seaplane tours in Halong Bay, or admire the green color of rice fields or long-stretching sand dunes in Mui Ne, Phan Thiet. Sitting in seaplanes, tourists will have an opportunity to experience a second-to-none feeling in Vietnam tours. Unlike civil aircrafts, seaplanes bring a bit of strange but exciting, especially when it lands on the water surface. Professional staff When the flight ends, the captain and co-pilot will support passengers to get on board. Tourists will be taken care warmly and attentively with food and drink. Staff will be ready to consulate tourism services at the destination. Otherwise, you can share photos taken on seaplanes. The time from landing areas to the resort will be shorten with stories told by staff on board. Relaxing at luxury resort

In Vietnam seaplane services to Phan Thiet, tourists enjoying two night at the lush green space of private beach-front bungalows at Victoria Phan Thiết Beach Resort & Spa you will be served with high-class and unlimited spa treatments, along with a romantic dinner in candle light and the sound of sea waves. Each bungalow is designed in accordance with the style of rustic leave-roof houses in the countryside amid an attractive tropical garden. The main materials to build the luxury resort are laterite and coral with classic and liberal furniture. According to The Guide under Vietnam Economics Times, Victoria Phan Thiết Beach Resort & Spa is voted as one of the most beautiful resorts in Mui Ne - Phan Thiet. Ideal service fee

Tourists will have a chance to book Vietnam seaplane tours with an attractive rate. - Halong one day - two night tour: Admiring Halong Bay from high above - nearly 3 million dong per pax - Halong one day - two night tour: Hanoi - Halong flight: about 8.3 million dong per pax. - Phan Thiet 2-day 3-night tour: honeymoon seaplane for couple: 11 million dong per pax. Summer comes. If you want to renew and make your holidays in Vietnam different, let’s come and experience interesting things of seaplane flights in top famous destinations in Vietnam. AloTrip International Limited Company – a reputable and leading travel agent with the official website of alotrip.com will provide tourists with the most useful and latest information about traveling Vietnam and exploring top destinations in the country with this new tourism product – sightseeing by seaplanes.