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Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, took center stage in the country’s tourism boom, showcasing its cultural heritage and festive programs. The city attracted 12.5 million domestic travelers, a 19% increase from the previous year, and generated $148 million in revenue, up by 7.85%. Hanoi’s success is a testament to the appeal of its cultural offerings and the effectiveness of its strategic policies, including relaxed visa rules and promotional packages. Tourists explore Hanoi’s charming streets by cyclo. Photo: Hoai Nam Other cities also experienced robust tourism growth. Ho Chi Minh City brought in $322 million, while Danang and Quang Nam welcomed 228,000 and 157,000 visitors, respectively, reflecting a 29% and 40% increase. The Tet holiday provided a perfect opportunity for these cities to display their unique cultural offerings, with Hanoi organizing traditional performances, handicraft demonstrations, and culinary delights in its Old Quarter and the historic Village...

Le Mat, a village located about seven kilometers from downtown Hanoi, in the present-day Viet Hung Ward of Long Bien District, has gained a reputation for its unique snake farming tradition and mouthwatering snake cuisine. To commemorate this ancient trade, the village hosts an annual festival on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, attracting locals and visitors alike. The village of Le Mat comes alive during its annual festival, with the highlight being the famous Jiaolong or snake dance. This ancient ritual draws visitors from near and far, eager to witness this unique tradition. Photos: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times The festival is a celebration of rich cultural heritage, featuring a range of rituals and folk activities. Among these, the Water Offering Ceremony and the Jiaolong or Snake Killing Dance stand out as particularly unique. The latter, one of the ten ancient dances of the imperial capital of Thang Long, showcases the village’s deep-rooted traditions. Accordi...

(Photo: Quest’s World of Wonder) “It’s true what they say: when you first arrive in Vietnam, you understand a lot in just a few minutes. But to truly grasp the essence of this captivating country, you need to immerse yourself in its vibrant reality.” This sentiment, echoed by Richard Quest, perfectly encapsulates his journey through Ho Chi Minh City, inspired by Graham Greene’s Quiet American. According to Quest, Vietnam exudes an irresistible allure that draws tourists from across the globe. The warmth and hospitality of the locals leave a lasting impression on visitors. “It had been two decades since my last visit to Vietnam, and I felt compelled to return and showcase its allure to the world through my show,” Quest shared. (Photo: Quest’s World of Wonder) In Ho Chi Minh City, Quest embarked on a cultural voyage, delving into the local lifestyle and unique traditions. He navigated the bustling streets, indulged in the delights of banh xeo, and even experienc...

Let’s dive into the captivating world of light performances across various cities in Vietnam, as witnessed and captured by the talented reporters of *The Hanoi Times*. Fireworks illuminate the night sky over a lake in downtown Hanoi, creating a mesmerizing display. Photo: Duy Khanh/*The Hanoi Times* A breathtaking display of fireworks explodes over Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, captivating onlookers. Photo: Duy Khanh/*The Hanoi Times* Cam Tu, a skilled photographer from *The Hanoi Times*, captures the essence of a spectacular fireworks show. The night sky above Ngoc Khanh Lake in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, is painted with vibrant colors during a firework display. Photo: Thanh Thanh/*The Hanoi Times* The vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City is further enhanced by a stunning firework display. Photo: Tieu Thuy/*The Hanoi Times* A large crowd gathers in Hanoi to witness the mesmerizing beauty of a firework displa...

Sa Pa – A Mountainous Escape For those seeking a mountainous retreat, Sa Pa Town in Lao Cai Province is an excellent choice, and the best part? It’s just a short distance from Hanoi. With affordable sleeper bus or train tickets ranging from VND250,000-400,000 ($9.9-15.8), travelers can easily embark on their journey to this captivating destination. To make the most of your budget, consider booking a combo deal that includes round-trip bus tickets and cozy accommodation at homestays or three-star hotels for as little as VND1.5-2 million ($59.2-79) each. Witness breathtaking views from the Fansipan peak in Lao Cai Province. Photo : SG If you’re craving spectacular vistas and luxurious four-to-five-star services, be prepared to spend around VND900,000-2.8 million ($35.5-110.5) per night for an unforgettable experience. During Tet , a visit to the Fansipan peak is a must. Many consider it lucky to stand at the “Roof of Indochina” on the first day of the new lunar year, takin...

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has been recognized by Time Out magazine as one of the top global destinations to visit in 2025. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine are just some of the attractions that have caught the publication’s eye. In their recent list of the 50 best cities to explore worldwide, Time Out ranked Hanoi as the 21st most appealing destination. This ranking places Hanoi as the second-highest among Southeast Asian cities, just after Thailand. According to the magazine, Hanoi has been a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture for millennia. The city’s Old Quarter, encircling the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, is a culinary and architectural hub, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Visitors are invited to discover the grand Opera House and a church reminiscent of Notre Dame, along with hidden gems—cozy cafes nestled in narrow alleyways or perched atop ancient structures. One of Hanoi’s distinguishing features, as noted by Time O...

The closing ceremony was an exhilarating event held on Sunday evening at District 5’s Culture and Sports Center.  A vast crowd gathered to witness the spectacular performances, filling the venue with their enthusiastic cheers, waving flags, and chanting ‘Vietnam’ in unison throughout the night. The Mieu Bay Ba troupe from An Giang Province, southern Vietnam, claimed the top spot in the International District 5 Open Kylin-Lion-Dragon Championship. Photo : Thuong Khai / Tuoi Tre The championship witnessed an array of impressive performances by both international and domestic troupes, who wowed the audience with their creative and dynamic moves, showcasing not only their technical prowess but also a strong sense of national pride and unity. Following a closely contested competition, Chung Huy Duong from Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, secured second place. Xuan Long Dragon and Lion Dance Rawang Selangor from Malaysia and Tai Anh Duong from An Giang also delivered r...