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A new way to approach Halong Bay, Vietnam

vnholidaynow — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:12:01 +0000

The ferry cruises leisurely on the turquoise waters of the Eastern Sea from Gia Luan Ferry to Tuan Chau island about 50 minutes away, but a lot of things are on offer along the way for passengers aboard to watch and immerse themselves in a world of beautiful landscapes.

The ferry is a new option for travelers who want to approach the UNESCO-listed bay in the northern province of Quang Ninh after they have swum in the sea and toured Cat Ba National Park and other attractions on Cat Ba island in northern Vietnam.

Tuan Chau Group launched the ferry route earlier this year to cater to the increasing demand of people frequenting the two destinations and especially travelers interested in sightseeing.

The landscapes along the way are karst limestone rock formations that have been carved by sea winds, sunshine and time into eye-catching shapes. All nature lovers must appreciate these natural formations and open their eyes wide to enjoy one of the best sights they have ever seen in Vietnam.

We did the same when I was on the ferry as part of my recent trip to northern Vietnam, where breezes blowing through the karst rocks soothed our eyes and the beauty of nature inspired our senses during the ferry trip of more than 7.5 kilometers.

Amazingly, a lot of bonsai-shape trees dot the karst limestone rock mountains and hills, creating a beautiful water-color painting in which evergreen trees on mountains and hills highlight and breathe life into the space of blue water and azure sky.

The landscape is so marvelous that many passengers on the ferry can’t help asking other people to take pictures of them and the karst formations when the ferry is cruising by the surroundings.

For those who have cruised around the karst limestone rock formations in Halong Bay, the hills and mountains seen from the ferry are the last pieces of a jigsaw and an interesting addition to a trip to the World Heritage Site, as the ferry takes them to Halong Bay via a new entrance so they have an opportunity to view more mountains and hills in the bay.

To reach Gia Luan Ferry, get on a bus at the main wharf of Cat Ba island that leaves the station every half hour and costs VND10,000 per person. It takes about 45 minutes to get to the ferry. Or you can book a private car for transfer from Cat ba main pier to Gia Luan ferry

You can buy a ferry ticket for VND30,000 upon arrival. Then you will wait for at least half an hour, more depending on the number of passengers, the availability of ferries, the tide and the time you arrive. It’s good if you come just as a ferry is approaching as you will wait long to begin the trip to a world of karst limestone rock formations.

The ferry runs frequently between Gia Luan and Tuan Chau from 6am till 6pm.

- Source: Vietnamnet –

Posted by Vietnamholidaynow.com

Tags: Vietnam holiday, Holiday Indochina, Vietnam packages, Vietnam holidays, Holiday Vietnam, Vietnam Halong bay, Cruise Halong bay, Vietnam halong bay cruises, Halong bay cruises, Cruise to Halong, Vietnam luxury vacation, Vietnam travels, Halong tours, Halong bay junks, Indochina boats, Cruise to Indochina, Indochina Holidays, Indochina cruises, travel Indochina

RV La Marguerite Mekong cruise offering Grand Opening Specials

vnholidaynow — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:58:22 +0000

La Marguerite, 46-cabins river vessel, raises the bar of river cruising in the Mekong Delta, offering unparalleled cruise experience, top notch excursions between Saigon and Siem Reap. World Class paired gourmet dining experiences add sparks to your personal journey while its carefully researched excursions to cultural destinations allows for passion revival.

La Marguerite, Interior Design by TTT Architects, is the first river vessel of esteemed Indochina Sails Cruise Company where its reputation is derived from direct endorsements from its travellers.

Stateroom:
Twin beds form into double bed placings. The cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, wardrobe, writing desk, sofa, mini-bar, safe box, in-house telephone, bathroom & shower, hairdryer, in-house television, kimono and slippers. Each cabin measures 21m2 (226ft2).

Sadec Suite:
King size bed, long sofa, bathroom with bathtub and separate shower. The cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, wardrobe, writing desk, sofa, mini-bar, safe box, in-house telephone, hairdryer, in-house television, kimono and slippers. Each cabin measures 27m2 (284ft2).

Indochina Suite:
King size bed, bathroom with Jacuzzi and separate shower and private balcony. The cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, wardrobe, writing desk, sofa, mini-bar, safe box, in-house telephone, hairdryer, in-house television, kimono and slippers. Each cabin measures 42m2 (443ft2).

The cruise includes 4 main decks which are:
Mekong Deck (Lower deck): 8 Staterooms with 21m2 (226ft2) each & Business Center.
Tonle Deck (Main Deck): 16 Staterooms with 21m2 (226ft2) each with fixed window, balcony, Mekong Restaurant measuring 196m2 (2110 ft2), Gift Shop at Reception Area.
Saigon Deck (Upper deck): 14 Staterooms each measuring 21m2 (226 ft2) with fixed window and balcony, Saigon Lounge & Panoramic Lounge measuring 230m2 (2476 ft2).
Sadec Deck (Sundeck): 6 Sadec Suites each measuring 27m2 (284ft2), 2 Indochina Suites each measuring 42m2 (443ft2), Sundeck Bar & Whirlpool measuring 275m2 (2960ft2), Beauty Salon, Treatment Spa, Gym.

La Marguerite is to set the first sail from HCMC – Siem reap on 20 September and for this very special occasions we launch a Grand Opening Special program in which offer 2029USD for Mekong Stateroom based on 2 persons occupancy including: All excursions including entrance fees, transportation, English-speaking tour guide. Taxes, fuel, pilot, port dues, passenger levies, full board during program. All meals: Beer 333, Angkor Beer, Packet Juices, Soft Drinks, Vietnamese Vodka & Rum. Transfer between the ship and meeting points at the start and end of the voyage

This special price is applied for 2 maiden voyages of RV Marguerite cruise on 20 September (HCMC – Siem Reap) and return from Siem reap – HCMC on 4Oct. You can access website http://vietnamhalongbaycruise.com for referential information and/or booking.

Reference site: http://vietnamhalongbaycruise.com/component/virtuemart/?page=shop.product_details&category_id=19&flypage=tab.tpl&product_id=36&Itemid=92
Email: sales@holidayindochina.com
Tel: 0084 – 43 – 6330577

Tag: Vietnam halong bay cruise, Mekong luxury cruises, La Marguerite cruise, special offers, cruise to Cambodia, Vietnam holiday, holiday Indochina, Mekong cruise, Halong bay cruises, Halong luxury cruises, Indochina Sails, Vietnam travel, Vietnam packages, holidays Vietnam

VHN extends Summer promotion for Victory Star cruise

vnholidaynow — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 09:42:46 +0000

Vietnamholidaynow would like to send our special thanks to all our value clients.

After 3 months of applying the summer Promotion for Victory Star cruise and receiving positive responds from our clients, we decide to extend this campaign until 30th September 2009 with the hope of giving more chance for international travellers to come and visit our wonderful World heritage Halong bay. Victory Star cruise is newly built and featured with deluxe accommodation and amenities.

Hereinafter is the detailed itinerary by Victoria Star cruise

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong bay (L/D)

08.30: Pick up by at hotel, 3 hours drive to Halong city.

12.30: Boarding Victoria cruise for departure. Welcome drink is served.

13.00 – 14.30: Lunch is served while cruising through BAI TU LONG Bay.

16.00: Trekking or swimming at SOI SIM Island.

17.15: Cruising to visit HANG DOI water tunnel with row boat.

18.30: Docking for overnight.

19.30: Diner is served. Accommodation and overnight on junk

Day 2: Hanlong bay – Hanoi (B)

06.30: Sunrise Yoga class on sundeck. Coffee or tea is served.

08.00: Visit splendid SUNG SOT grotto with a quick glimpse at the nearby fishing village.

09.00: Buffet breakfast while cruising back through Ha Long Bay to the pier.

10.00: Luggage pulls out. Clear all bills.

11.00: Arrive at the pier.

12.30 Bus transfer back to Hanoi. Tour ends.

The promotion price applied for deluxe room is 233USD/cabin (max 2 passengers) and excluded transfer from and to hotel in Hanoi. Full information of this cruise can be seen at http://vietnamhalongbaycruise.com/halong-cruise/victory-star-cruise.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=tab.tpl&product_id=34&category_id=17&Itemid=92

Announced by Vietnamholidaynow.com / Tel: 0084 – 43 – 36339577 / Email: info@vietnamholidaynow.com

Tags: Vietnam holiday, Holiday Indochina, Vietnam halong bay cruise, Vietnam cruises, Halong bay cruise, Victory Star cruise, Summer Promotion, Deluxe cruise Halong, Mekong cruise, Indochina cruises, Halong junks, Halong boats, Halong cruises, Viet nam packages, travel to Vietnam, Vietnam holidays, Vietnam tours.

Halong Emeraude cruise history

vnholidaynow — Wed, 13 May 2009 02:49:07 +0000

In 1999, the chance discovery of a postcard of a paddle steamer named Emeraude cruising in Ha Long Bay inspired a search for it origins in the vaults of the French Colonial Archives in Aix-en-Provence. From historical documents unearthed there, it was discovered that the Emeraude was part of a fleet of ships operated by the Roque family, transporting freight along the waterways of French Indochina and offering cruises in Ha Long Bay.

Letters were sent to all 1,200 people with the family name of Roque listed in France and eventually the descendants of the family of ship-owners were found. The Roque family in question kindly made the family archives available. As a result, the project to rebuild the Emeraude began in a Hai Phong shipyard in 2002.

The story of the Emeraude goes back to 1858 and three brothers, Victor, Xavier and Henry Roque, who lived in a small village in South-West France. Driven by their entrepreneurial spirit and dreams of adventure, the brothers headed to the Far East in search of their fortunes. Arriving in Manila and then moving onto Hong Kong, the brothers were soon in business supplying fresh food and provisions of all kinds to the French Army. In 1860, following the taking of Sai Gon by the troops of Admiral Rigault de Genouilly the previous year, the Roque brothers left Hong Kong to set up business in the newly colonized city.

Their business prospered and in addition to providing supplies of flour, bread, biscuits and fresh meat for the army they also now supplied timber for construction, towing services, manufactured sugar, undertook public construction work and traded in opium.

In 1872, the Roque brothers, financed by the British trading house of Jardine & Matheson, signed a contract with the French colonial administration to establish the Cochinchine Steam Lines. In exchange for an annual fee, the company provided transportation services for passengers, freight and mail between Cochinchine and neighbouring Cambodia.

In 1890 Victor Roque obtained a coal concession in Dong Trieu in northern Tonkin. Success breeds envy and two of the Roque brothers were kidnapped, along with others in their employ, by bandits led by the notorious Luu Ky. To pay the ransom, the Roque family was forced to sell off family assets, leaving the company weakened. Victor Roque, then 61 years-old, bankrupt and in ill-health, returned to France.

Following the departure of Victor, Henry assumed sole responsibility for the Roque family business but was soon joined by Paul Roque, son of Xavier, in Hai Phong. It was here that they had the idea to build a small fleet of ships to transport freight and offer pleasure cruises on Ha Long Bay. The construction of the four flat-bottomed paddle-steamers, to be named EMERAUDE, RUBIS, PERLE and SAPHIR, was carried out in Hong Kong. Each ship could be easily distinguished by the coloured band around the top of its funnel: green for EMERAUDE, red for RUBIS, white for PERLE and blue for SAPHIR.

By 1919 the business became a limited company known as the Société Anonyme de Chalandage et Remorquage d’Indochine, or SACRIC for short. Paul Roque returned to France in 1921 and was appointed a Vice-President for life. One of the future Presidents of the company was to be Edmond Giscard d’ Estaing, father of Valéry, who was elected President of France in 1974.

In 1937, the Emeraude sank en-route from Hai Phong to Mong Cai without loss of life With the French withdrawal from Tonkin in 1953, the Société Anonyme de Chalandage et Remorquage d’Indochine was no more. Paul Roque died in 1966.

Book this cruise at http://vietnamholidaynow.com/english/vietnam_tour_halong_Halong-Emeraude-Crui…

Refer more at Halong cruise collection at: http://vietnamholidaynow.com/english/vietnam/tour/Halong-Bay-Cruises/244.html

Nha trang recommended hotels and resorts

vnholidaynow — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:14:28 +0000

Nha Trang is a short flight south on a Vietnam Airlines ATR. The overhead bins can accommodate a briefcase at best so watch your carry-on. The town actually looks like a seaside resort with a long breezy marine drive. There are public beach areas with nice thatch-palm umbrellas and endless views.

Taking credit for the latter is the Evason Ana Mandara and Six Senses Spa. As would be expected, this beautiful garden property features a Six Senses Spa set in its own private enclave at one end of the property. There are treatment rooms for couples with sunken Jacuzzis. Choose a package or go a la carte. If you’re not warm enough by the beach, head for the sauna and herbal steam, then ponder the spelling and pronunciation of words like kinesiology. The spa is airy and bright with nice garden features.

Evason Ana Mandara runs long rather than deep, along the promenade drive. It is minutes from the airport, yet far removed from the bustle. The cottages are roomy, the largest being the 35sq m Deluxe Seaview with tile floors and four-poster bed. There’s TV, mosquito net, wooden furniture, a bathtub with a window looking onto garden and an incredibly small safe.

The complex has two swimming pools (one deep enough for diving lessons), tennis courts and a super romantic dining spot on a wooden jetty, right above the sea. Sort out your “I dos” here under a full moon. The Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay is on a neighbouring island, a 15-minute boat ride from here. This resort features just 58 pool villas. The civil airport at Cam Ranh (which can handle larger aircraft) is a half-hour drive to Nha Trang along a 30km highway. The old city airport smack in the middle of town used to be a breeze but…

One of the biggest and flashiest hotels on the Vietnam beach scene is the 485-room Vinpearl Resort & Spa megaresort. This humongous all-in-one playground boasts a 1,000-guest ballroom facility, bars, nightclub, extensive swimming pools, spa, marina, tennis and diving. The Vinpearl is a 10-minute boat or hovercraft-ride from the jetty near Evason Ana Mandara. The resort complex is on a grand scale. The place may not appeal to all tastes but as an all-inclusive, private, Club Med sort of escape, it will find its fans. If comparisons were to be made, it is a tad like the Royal Cliff at Pattaya, with a five storey structure fronting the sea on a private bay below the hills. The five-star Sunrise Beach Resort Nha Trang on the tree-lined esplanade overlooking Nha Trang Bay has 121 guestrooms and suites. Close to the beach and in the heart of the city, the resort is conveniently located for sightseeing and a 45-minute drive from Cam Ranh Airport. The hotel boasts a raft of amenities including the Qi Salon and Spa by Shiseido where everything from mud baths and wraps to stinging scrubs is on offer.

For those on a budget, the Yasaka Saigon Nha Trang Hotel is a stone’s throw away, also on the marine drive. Here hotel-style rooms start at US$98 a night. Off season you might get a 50 percent discount or more. If it’s raining, bargain, bargain, bargain. And even cheaper, is the Nha Trang Lodge Hotel.

The four-hour drive from Nha Trang to Phan Thiet is on an excellent two-lane highway with little traffic, hard shoulders and smooth black-top all the way. The countryside erupts in unbelievable shades of green during the rains. The road passes paddy fields, quaint farm houses, cows, dogs, chickens, geese and the ubiquitous policemen who seem to specialise in setting sudden speed traps for unwary motorists. While this is a state highway, you might suddenly spot an improvised 30km speed limit sign with a patrol car round the bend. This makes progress unpredictable, if adventurous. At other places there is not a road sign to be seen for miles yet “tea money” is being earned by the bushel by hard-working men in uniform.

About a half hour south of Cam Ranh, the hills recede, yielding views of vast golden fields and patchwork green. This really is a lovely drive. You won’t be driving as foreigners aren’t really allowed to wander the roads so sit back and take it all in. Make sure the driving is during daylight hours as nightfall significantly increases your chances of meeting chickens (and a procession of beasts, humans and vehicles) that suddenly decide to cross the road. The Nha Trang area has some of the better beaches of Vietnam though the sand is sometimes a touch more coarse than at Phan Thiet.

BONUS OFFER at Sis senses resort Nha trang now is offering at official site of vietnamholidaynow. Click for updating our special summer promotion: http://vietnamholidaynow.com/english/vietnam_hotel_nha-trang_Six-Senses-Hidea…

Suggested by Liz Mai
Web: http:///www.vietnamholidaynow.com

Tel: 00-84-43-6339577

Email: sales@vietnamholidaynow.com

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Halong Emeraude cruise – Low season discount

vnholidaynow — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 02:24:42 +0000

As Vietnam modernizes, vestiges of the French colonial era are fading fast, except for the return of the Emeraude to Halong Bay. Since 2003, the beautiful, wood-lined paddle steamer has been taking guests for one-night cruises in a wonder-world of towering limestone islands, inlets and fiords off Vietnam.

The Emeraude is a replica of a cargo and passenger ship built around 1905 by Paul Roque, whose Bordeaux family made a fortune in French Indochina in 1858. The luxurious, state-of-the-art steamer, with a dark room for photographers, electric lights and refrigeration, plied the magical coastline of Vietnam until it struck a rock and sank in 1937.

Much later, Eric Merlin, a young Frenchman who had backpacked through Vietnam, found a vintage postcard of the Emeraude at a Paris flea market. When he returned to Southeast Asia as a tour operator and hotel owner, he commissioned a replica, built in the port of Haiphong for $2.4 million.

Emeraude cruises cost from $375 to $624 for two people in one cabin. Passengers are taken by van from Hanoi to the coast town of Hong Gai for an extra charge. There, they meet the four-decked Emeraude, partake of a sumptuous lunch buffet and settle into elegant, shipshape cabins; all burnished wood and rattan, with crisp white duvet-covered beds and handsomely appointed private baths.

The captain is a Frenchman from Normandy, the chief bursar a Filipina, the rest of the staff is mostly Vietnamese and well-rehearsed in a style of service meant to evoke the bygone French colonial era.

Everything, from cushioned chaise lounges on the sun deck to dry martinis at the bar, is top-drawer, including the scenery. With thousands of molar-shaped islets jutting up from the tranquil bay, floating villages and breathtaking pink sunrises, Halong Bay was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

If the weather is favourable, cruise passengers can swim or kayak in the bay. A dinner as gratifying as lunch follows, and then the duvet calls. But for those who cannot sleep, there’s an alfresco showing of the 1992 French film “Indochine,” starring Catherine Deneuve, with a scene set right where you are on Halong Bay.

Discount rate for Emeraude cruise from April – September 2009 is offering by Vietnamholidaynow at: http://vietnamholidaynow/Halong_Emeraude_cruise

Call 0084-36339577 / Email: sales@vietnamholidaynow.com / Web: http://vietnamholidaynow.com

Tags: vietnamholiday, holidayindochina, halongluxurycruise, halongdiscountcruise, cruisehalongpromotion, Halongdeluxecruise, Emeraudehalongcruise, vietnamcruises, cruisevietnam, discounttours, halongdiscounttravel

Big Promotion with Vietnamholidaynow

vnholidaynow — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 02:59:23 +0000

Vietnamholidaynow offer Special summer promotion for wide range products from package vacations to hotel bookings only

Extra bonus night offer 2009

I – Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay (NHAHA):

Bonus offer: We would offer a 2+1 (stay 3, pay 2 nights only) offer based on minimum of 3 nights.

(Valid from now to 19 Dec 2009)

Add benefits:

Welcome drink at Pearl Farm
Sparkling wine on arrival to Villa
Welcome amenity
Once Weekly Managers Cocktail party
Kayaking
Snorkeling

II – Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang (NHAEA):

Bonus offer: – Offer a 3+1 (stay 4, pay 3 nights only) offer based on minimum of 4 nights.

- Offer a 5+2 (stay 7, pay 5 nights only) offer based on minimum of 7 nights.

(Valid from 01 Apr 2009 to 15 July 2009)

Add benefits:

Welcome drink
Welcome fruit in room
Free usage of Tennis court & equipment on day time
Free usage of mountain bicycle
Free usage of Internet
Departure gift for each guest

Terms and Conditions (I) + (II):

All bookings made outside of the stated period are not eligible for the above offer.
This promotion is not applicable to groups, conferences or meetings.
Advance reservation is required and subject to confirmed allocations or space available.

Low season Discount for Vietnam Halong bay cruises

Halong Victoria Star cruise: Applied for 2days itinerary – Deluxe room
Halong Emeraude cruise: applied for 2 days itinerary

And 5% off for selected packages with booking through Vietnamholidaynow’s website

Please visit VHN site at http://vietnamholidaynow.com or contact to our sales team for details: Ms Liz Mai / Tel: 0084-43-366339577 / Email: sales@vietnamholidaynow.com / Hot line: 0084-915.216661
Tags: Vietnam holiday, Summer promotions, low season discount, vietnam bach vacation, vietnam halong bay cruise, Phu quoc island, Nha trang beach, Phan thiet beach, Vietnam beaches, Nha trang beach resorts, Six senses Nha trang, Evason hideway Nha trang, Ana mandara nha trang

Phu Quoc travel information

vnholidaynow — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:02:39 +0000

HISTORY

In the early 17th century, Phu Quoc was a desolate area, where Vietnamese and Chinese immigrants earned their living from sea cucumbers. From 1782 to 1786, Phu Quoc became a stronghold of Lord Nguyen Anh, later Emperor Gia Long, in his confrontation with Tay Son forces.

In 1869, the French occupied it and set up rubber and coconut plantations in the island. From 1967 to 1972, a P.O.W detention camp of 40,000 inmates during the war covering on 400 hectares was built at An Thoi by the Saigon regime.

After being liberated on 30 April 1975, Phu Quoc has been converted into an ideal tourist destination for nature and sea lovers.

HOW TO GET THERE

By Air : Vietnam Airlines ATR72 aircraft fly daily from Ho Chi Minh and 5 times from Rach Gia (Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri., Sat.) to Phu Quoc and back (2002 flight schedule).

By Ferry : Public boats ply between An Thoi (in the south) and Rach Gia (6 hours, daily) and between An Thoi (in the north) and Ha Tien (4 hours, once every other day). The best season for these short voyages is from late October to late September when the sea is calm.

VISA INFORMATION AND PROCEDURE

Citizens of south-east Asia countries don’t need to have im-emmigrating certifications when entering Duongdong town within 15 days. If they want to go to other places from here (except restricted areas), they can get im-emmigrating certifications given by im-emmigrating management Offices of Duongdong town. Foreign-tourist ships can arrive or leave Duongdong harbour as the projects signed with Vietnamese tourist companies. Foreign tourist ships to Duongdong area & other areas(except restricted areas) have to obey the laws mentioned above.

Foreign cargo ships are allowed to arrive or leave Duongdong town to deliver or get cargoes as the contracts signed business-manufacturing organizations. The crewmen on these ships can use their passports or sailor’s registers to enter Duongdong area issued by foreign authorities. If they deliver or get goods in other harbours of Kiengiang province, they have to obey Vietnam’s current law.

FLOWERS AND FRUITS

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the hear-shaped island lies just 62 nautical miles from Rach Gia and nearly 290 nautical miles from Laem Chabang (Thailand). It covers an area of 567 sq. km (about 62 km long and 3-28 km wide) and is situated at 10o01′-10o27′ north latitude and 103o51′-104o50′ east longitude. Its population is approx. 85,000 (2001).

Phu Quoc is called the island of “99 mountains” because of its many sandstone chains gradually descending from the north to the south. The longest one is Ham Ninh which stretches for 30 km along the eastern edge with its highest peak called Mt. Chua (603m).

Phu Quoc has a monsoon sub-equatorial climate. There are two seasons in the year: the rainy season (October only) and the dry season (November to September). The average annual rainfall is 2,879 m and the average temperature is 27oC. Trips to Phu Quoc can be made all year round, but the best time is dry season when the sky is always sunny, clear and blue.

FESTIVALS

Like special events everywhere, the local festival days based on the lunar calender falling on Oct.,16 (Dinh Cau Temple); Nov., 20 (Thuy Long Thanh Mau Temple); July 15 (Temple consecration ); July 30 (Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda consecration); Ham Ninh Lady’s spirits memory; Oct.7 & 8 (Su Muon Pagoda); Sep. 25 & 26 (Suoi Da Pagoda; Sep. 26 & 27 (Ganh Gio Pagoda); August 27 (Nguyen Trung Truc monument’s day) ; July 27 (Phu Quoc jail martyr Vietnamese monument’s day); Jan. 15 (Gia King’s Temple day); From Oct.3, 1997 (Many local people died in the Storm no. 5 ); May 16 (Bon Canh Temple day).

CREDIT CARD AND MONEY EXCHANGE

There are a lot of Gold Shops for money exchange, but they are illegal. It’s possible to change money in the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank it’s State Office. To be more convenient and faster, you can change them at Saigon Phu Quoc Resort. You can not only change your money but also credit cards as JCB, VISA, MASTER, & AmE’s Cards there. Your check is possible to accept.

**************************************************

Posted by Vietnamholidaynow

Tel: 0084-43-36339577

Fax: 0084-43-36339335

Email: info@vietnamholidaynow.com

Web: http://vietnamholidaynow.com

Travel and shopping in Hochiminh city

vnholidaynow — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 04:02:23 +0000

Shopping is ever-lasting passion of almost women in the world. And obviously, they can not miss the chance for doing shopping whenever travelling. The International Women day is coming and I hope this post will give our beautiful women some tips when travelling and shopping in Hochiminh city (former Saigon)

Of all the many places in the world that I’ve travelled to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in Vietnam offers the best-value shopping opportunities for made-to-measure clothing, lacquer ware, woodwork, fine cotton goods, machine embroidered and hand embroidered goods, scarves, t-shirts, faux jewellery and shawls. The last time I was there I stocked up on everything. Now my gift drawer is filled to overflowing with presents that would cost three and four times the amount if they were purchased at home. So when birthdays, anniversaries and holidays come along all I need to do is gift wrap one of these fabulous items. And guess what? I bought the gift wrap in Vietnam, too.

A note about tailors in HCMC…

These Vietnamese tailors work so fast and so well. They sometimes sew things to order in two to three days. Here’s a few of my tried and true tips for ordering made to measure items.

Pack a shirt or jacket from home that you love. Pick your fabric in one of these tailoring shops, leave your garment with them and they will copy it exactly. Be sure to arrange for an early fitting so that any problems can be fixed before you have to leave the city.

Always ask the tailors to make the back of the garment an inch wider than the original. Our JW experience has been that some shopkeepers tend to skimp on material that ‘you’ve’ paid for and make the garment just a bit smaller. By adding width I’ve ended up with the size I really want. Remember the old Journeywoman rule — an inch too big is far better than an inch too small.

Every tailor is going to ask for at least a 50% deposit. I try to leave as small a deposit as possible. Though this has never happened to me I don’t want to be in a position of losing a lot of money if the tailor does a terrible job and I have to leave the garment behind. If less than 50% is unacceptable then make your deposit using a credit card so you have a better chance of retrieving your money if necessary.

I always tell the tailor that I am leaving town one day earlier than I actually am. This way in case extra time is needed for changes to the garment you’ll have it without extra stress.

Lovely linen shirts tailored to measure…

I had a five-day stay in Vietnam. On my first day there I brought one of my linen shirts to Nam Silk to have it copied. They completed the job in two days and charged me $US16.00 per shirt for the linen, creating and sewing the pattern. The finished product was perfect and it cost me a fraction of what the original shirt had cost. This tailoring shop is located at 191-193 De Tham Street, District One. Tel: (84-8) 4042429. Do yourself a favour. If you’re staying in the center of town, take a cab from your hotel. It shouldn’t be more than $US2.00 and the cab driver will find the shop a lot faster than you will. P.S. I left my old, worn shirt with them so that they would have the pattern and I could then order more by mail when I wanted to.

Have an ao-dai made just for you…

The ao dai (pronounced ow-yai) is a long gown with slits on either side that is the traditional woman’s dress of Vietnam. These are worn with matching wide silk pants. Some women choose patterned material for the ao-dai and solids for the pants.

Depending on the material you choose you can make a set for about $US30 but of course better silks will cost much more. These outfits are so lovely and can be worn to dressy events once you get them home.

One shop that specializes in more expensive ao-dai is Thuan Viet. 213B dong Khoi St., District 1, HCMC. THey charge $US150 and up for exquisite, colourful, hand embroidered silk ao dai sewn to order. See their website: www.aodaithuanviet.com

Less expensive ao-dai can be purchased ready to wear at stalls in Ben Thanh Market. Other shops like Nam Silk (191-193 De Tham Street, District One) will tailor far less expensive ones in gorgeous vibrant silks.

Sweet smocked dress for girls…

In Ho Chi Minh City there is a wonderful shop called, Ninh Khuong Embroidery. I came across it by accident because it’s across the street from my tailor, Nam Silk on De Tham Street. I later found other branches at 83 Dong Khoi and 34 Le Loi Street. They sell the most attractive smocked and embroidered cotton party dresses for little girls (about $US20). They also have outfits for babies and boys plus a lovely selection of the softest cotton nightgowns, sleep shirts and linens. Be prepared to empty your pocketbook but you’ll get great value for the money. Address: 220 De Tham Street, District 1. – By Evelyn Hannon
Posted by Vietnamholidaynow / Tel: 0084-43-6339577 / info@vietnamholidaynow.com
Tags: Vietnam holiday, holiday indochina, Indochina holiday, travel to vietnam, vietnam travel guide, Hochiminh city excurions, Hochiminh city tours, Shopping in Vietnam, Shopping in Saigon, Shopping in hanoi, Vietnam travel tips, travel tips to vietnam, vietnam travel, Halong cruise vacation, Mekong cruise, luxury mekong cruise, Vietnam junks and boats, Asian junks, Halong travel, Halong day tours and excursions, Halong hotels, Hotels in halong bay, vietnam beach vacation, Muine beach, china beach vietnam, nhatrang beach, Phu quoc beach, Nhatrang hotels and resorts, Muine hotels and resorts, Luxury resorts in vietnam, Mekong delta excursion, Halong cruise lines, Vietnam halong cruise, Vietnam luxury cruise, deluxe cruise on halong bay, Halong bay kayaking, sapa discovery, sapa expedition, sapa travel, trekking sapa

Sweet Valentine on Halong bay

vnholidaynow — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 04:59:22 +0000

Valentine cruise is sister’s cruise of Indochina Sails. This luxury cruise with 5 cabins was launched from Oct 2007 to offer the best suite for VIP or private charming space for single passengers. Spend Valentine day with your partner in Valentine cruise on Halong bay. Can not be more perfect!!!
Day 01: Hanoi – Halong
8h00: The A/C vehicle pick you up from your hotel for transfer to Halong bay
11:30 Arrive at Bai Chay/Halong pier.

12:15 Transfer by tender to the Indochina Sails boat – enjoy Welcome Drink. Receive cruise briefing and check in to cabins and begin cruise.
13:00 Lunch – deluxe Vietnamese and International Set Menu.
Massage service is available beginning after lunch and
throughout the cruise. Please book in advance with Cruise Manager.
14.30 Arrive at Titop Island. Enjoy swimming, relaxing on the beach and climbing the steps to the top of the mountain on the island for fantastic views and photo opportunities. Water and towels supplied. We will spend about one hour on the island.
15.30 Transfer back to the boat and sail for approximately 45 minutes to our second destination – the Bat Cave area.
16.30 Arrive at the Bat Cave area. There are two programs to choose from at this time. One option is a 40 minute kayaking program to the nearby Bat Cave and lagoon and surrounding waters. Kayaking is $10. per person unless already booked as part of your package. Water is supplied.
The second option is to visit the largest floating fishing village in Halong Bay. We will travel to the village on the tender and tour the village for approximately 20 minutes.

18:30 Arrive at Luon Bo area – anchor for overnight.
19:00 Dinner – deluxe Vietnamese & Western Buffet or Set Menu Dinner.
20:30 Evening activities include: film entertainment in the dining room at approximately 9:15, board games and playing cards are available, join squid fishing from the boat with our crew, massage services are available.
21:00 – 23:00 Happy Hour!
Buy one drink – get one free (wine excluded).
23.00 End of program for Day One

Day 02: Halong
6:30 Enjoy Tai Chi instruction on the sundeck (duration about 30 minutes).
6:45 Coffee, tea and breakfast pastries served in the dining room.
7:45 Enjoy Breakfast Set Menu or Buffet served in the dining room.

8:30 Transfer by tender to the “Day Boat” and begin to cruise to some of Halong Bay’s more untouched locales. Exact locations depend on tide conditions. Enjoy a leisurely day of kayaking and swimming. A multi-course lunch will be served mid-day. Pack lightly; swimwear and set of dry clothes and there may be some walking on slippery rocks and through shallow water so appropriate shoes for this.
16:00 Return by tender to the Indochina Sails boat.
18:30 Arrive at Luon Bo area – anchor for overnight.
19:00 Dinner – deluxe Vietnamese and Western Buffet or Set Menu Dinner.
20:30 Evening activities include: film entertainment in the dining room at approximately 21:15, board games and playing cards are available join squid fishing from the boat with our crew, massage services are available.
21:00 – 23:00 Happy Hour!
Buy one drink – get one free (wine excluded).
23.00 End of program for Day Two
Day 03: Halong – Hanoi

6:30 Enjoy Tai Chi instruction on the sundeck (duration about 30 minutes).

6:45 Coffee, tea and breakfast pastries served in the dining room.
7:00 Arrive at the Surprise Cave.
8:00 Transfer by tender to the Surprise Cave.
Walk up the 100 steps to the entrance of the cave and tour on foot for approximately 45 minutes.
9:00 Upon return to the boat take time to freshen up and please check-out of cabins. Please leave heavy luggage outside of the cabins (staff will transfer to the pier). Depart for Bai Chay/Halong pier.
10:00 Relax on the sundeck or in the dining room and enjoy the bay scenery as we approach the pier.
9:30 Enjoy Breakfast Set Menu or Buffet served in the dining room. Settle bills in the dining room after breakfast.
10:45 Arrive at Bai Chay/Halong pier.
11:00 Transfer by tender to the pier, relax inside the pier building while waiting for return transportation. Farewell and End of Cruise.
11h30: pick at the port for driving back to Hanoi. Tour end upon arrive in your hotel

Rate for group of 2 persons: 342 USD/pax

INCLUSION:
_ Accommodation on twin cabin (lockable) on traditional junk
_ In-house speaking tour guide
_ Transportation with A/C vehicle
_ Boat cruise with meals: 3 main meals (01 lunch, 1 diner and 1 brunch)
_ Welcome drink on arrival
_ Fresh fruit, free tea and coffee
_ Entrance fee to Halong bay
_ Taxes and Service charge
_ Insurance on board

EXCLUSION: Kayaking, Travel insurance, Drink other than the above, Other personal expenses

Book this tour with Vietnamholidaynow / Tel: 84-43-6339577 / Email: sales@vietnamholidaynow.com

***Two days program with Valentine cruise is also available on our website at http://vietnamholidaynow.com/english/vietnam_tour_halong_Halong-Valentine-luxury-cruise-days_244_1883/index.html
***And many other cruises on Halong bay at http://vietnamholidaynow.com/english/vietnam/tour/Halong-Bay-Cruises/244.html