As I pursued on exploring various countries and cities, my travels unveiled the beating heart of each metropolis. Amid bustling streets, verdant havens provide solace—a timeless narrative of culture, history, and urban-nature harmony. These are the parks and gardens found in modern and busy cities, providing refuge to the weary. Definitely, these green spaces aren’t …
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Picture yourself in vibrant Hanoi, where the Ho Chi Minh Museum beckons, immersing you in the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, a true icon of Vietnam’s history. Brace yourself for an adventure as we delve into the intriguing background, offerings, and practical details for an unforgettable visit to this remarkable museum. History and …
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Nestled in the heart of Hanoi in Vietnam, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the country. This unique theater showcases the ancient art form of water puppetry, offering visitors a captivating and immersive experience unlike any other. With its historical significance, enchanting performances, and vibrant …
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In the heart of Hanoi, where ancient traditions meet modern vibes, lies a hidden treasure that captures the essence of Vietnam’s rich history and spiritual heritage — The Temple of the Jade Mountain. Sometimes called the Ngọc Sơn Temple, it is an enchanting sanctuary that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its mystique. Here you …
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People young old seated on low stools outside eateries and cafes along the sides of the streets are a common sight when you roam around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Despite the sweltering heat, locals and tourists enjoy a warm cup of coffee, a bowl of pho and Vietnamese cuisine in a non-airconditioned setting. There’s something attractive …
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is one of the postcard pictures of Vietnam. Thousands of isles and limestone karsts are cast around this famous bay in Quang Ninh Province in the northern part of the country. Now, millions of visitors flock to Ha Long, which means “descending dragon”, to see this beauty up …
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a sprawling city in the northern part of the country that has much old architecture and cultural and historical attractions that give off a charm that delights visitors and locals alike. Although it’s not my first time in Vietnam, since I have visited Ho Chi Minh City in the …
In celebration of ASEAN‘s 50th year since its founding, AirAsia is offering low fares to all destinations across its regional network. Learn more about the ASEAN or any of its member-countries. You can start by exploring Philippine destinations, such as Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, and Clark; or discover interesting attractions in Singapore (when you fly direct …
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On August 8, 1967, five countries banded together to form the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). These are Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines. Now, the ASEAN marks its 50th year and it has grown into 10 countries, which now includes Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam. I realized that I have visited all …
One of my favorite foreign cuisines is the Thai cuisine. When I was working in Manila Hotel, I would always take the table closest at the Thai food station in Café Ilang-Ilang whenever I eat buffet. Last year, during my Thai trip, I brought home ingredients for a Tom Yum soup, scoured the internet for …
Exactly seven years ago today, I embarked on a Malaysia-Cambodia-Vietnam sojourn. Let me zero in on Vietnam as I recently received inquiries from friends as to where to go for shopping and dining in Ho Chi Minh City, visa requirements, Visa on Arrival services, a good place to stay, and other information they would need for a …
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The advent of technology has kept people on the go to be in touch with the rest of the world wherever they may be. It’s now an added bonus but it can also be a distraction to your journey. For first-time travelers wanting to be constantly connected, you will not only concern yourself with your …
Watching travelers in an airport coffee shop while waiting for my flight, I couldn’t help but wonder what 2010 has for me when it comes to traveling. Of course, 2009 was a good one. I have covered almost 20,000 miles, visited four countries, and enjoyed several beaches and landmarks. It was my first time to …
When I posted online that I was embarking on a long trip and one of my destinations would be HCMC, so many asked me if I were going to Hong Kong and Macau. For the uninitiated, HCMC is Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. It is the biggest city of Vietnam and the …
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Years ago, after my return to the Philippines from a seven-month stay in Indonesia, I gifted myself with a Southeast Asian Travel Guide. It was sold on a very big discount because it’s the non-updated version. I didn’t mind and I figured that it would always be useful and I can find out for myself …