Vietnam plans Japan rep office to promote tourism

Vietnam is planning to open a representative office in Tokyo, Japan late this year or early next year to facilitate its tourism marketing activities and step up cooperation between travel firms of the two nations.

 

The plan is aimed at helping ratchet up Japanese tourist arrivals in Vietnam from half a million last year to one million by 2015.
Hoang Thi Diep, deputy head of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT), said this would be the first overseas representative office of Vietnam’s tourism authority.
A memorandum of understanding between Vietnam and Japan on the opening of the office can be signed next month during the Festival Hue 2012, Diep said, adding local travel firms and their Japanese partners were looking forward to the launch of the office.
“Japan has set up a committee to promote the opening of the office. The cost of the office’s establishment and management is huge for Vietnam, at around VND1 billion which is partly sourced from Vietnam’s tourism promotion budget and the rest from Japanese partners,” Diep told the Daily on Monday.
Japan has always been among the top five markets for Vietnam’s tourism sector with nearly 482,000 Japanese coming to Vietnam last year, up 8.9% from the previous year, although it was devastated by the earthquake and tsunami in March last year.
The first two months of the year saw nearly 110,000 Japanese visiting Vietnam, up 16.9% year-on-year.
VNAT has drawn up a scheme with various specific activities intended to attract one million Japanese visitors, including the inauguration of the representative office. When the office is in place, marketing and advertising projects on television and in newspapers and direct interactions with customers will be conducted in a more regular basis.
The goal of attracting one million Japanese tourists by 2015 is deemed as ambitious but given available air links, efforts of travel firms in both countries and the appeal of Vietnam as a favorite destination of Japanese tourists, the target would be achievable.
Vietnam Airlines alone has 46 weekly flights between the two countries, Diep said. 


More detail Check Our website: www.greentrail-indochina.com

Capital city weekenders enjoy tranquility at Dai Lai Lake

"You can relax on a sand bank, swim or row out to nearby islands, or even climb up to discover wild caves. It sounds good, doesn't it?"

Serenity: Visitors paddle along the lake in swan boats. — File photos

Free-wheeling: Families cycle near Dai Lai Lake.

Tumbling waters: Tourists hike upstream to Doi (Bat) Cave near Dai Lai Lake.

Yes, it does. When my close friend asked me to accompany her to Dai Lai tourist resort, where she would be taking wedding photos, I agreed, thinking I would be able to help her and visit the site at the same time. That's how I ended up by the lake at the foot of the Tam Dao mountain range. The 525ha Dai Lai Lake and its beautiful natural environs are located in the suburbs of the capital, 50km from the inner city and an easy 10km from Noi Bai International Airport.
Dai Lai has diverse terrain including lakes, hills, valleys, and mountains large enough to accommodate a great hoard of tourists on holidays. On weekends, they can be found swimming, strolling, fishing, and participating in water sports or other activities along the shoreline.
Dai Lai means a "great source of water" in the language of the San Diu ethnic group who reside near the lake.
The climate and weather in Dai Lai are rather stable thanks to the surrounding mountains. The average temperature is 28OC in summer and 16 degrees Celsius in winter, more pleasant than Ha Noi and neighbouring regions.
Dai Lai is being turned into a regional and international tourist area, with golf courses, villas and commercial centres.
Animals that can be spotted include monkey, wild boar, deer, sandbar deer, fox, squirrel, porcupine, python, snake and several protected bird species.

The lake lies next to Than Lan (Lizard) Mountain named after its shape which imitates two lizards huddled with their heads together. Legend has it that the two giant lizards fought over a precious stone but lost it where Ngoc Thanh Village stands nowadays. They were transformed into a mountain as punishment for losing the pearl. Tourists often soak themselves in the clean green water of the lake in the early morning hours, before climbing up Than Lan Mountain to enjoy the panoramic view of Ha Noi's urban area in the glow of dawn.
Our host Nguyen Quoc An suggested that Co Island in the centre of the lake should be our afternoon spot. We reached the island after a half-hour boat ride. Although tourists have frightened away most of the storks, smaller birds still chatter above our heads and call to each other to come home. The site seems poetic and peaceful at sunset.
We gather around a camp-fire, eating, dancing and singing together. It's really unforgettable.
"Tourists flock to the site during the summer months to escape the heat further south," An said. "Couples or adventurers seeking solitude are the most common visitors during the rest of the year."
Intrepid cyclists and off-road drivers can travel the 15km from the lake to Nhe Mountain Pass where they can enjoy a spectacular sight. From there, the footpath is clear along Lanh Stream up to Doi Cave.
Near the cave, the current becomes strong and the path hard to access due to large rocks. An easier way across the pine hills has been put in place to help tourists reach the cave without slipping and falling.
True to its name, Doi Cave is home to many bats. After a challenging trek to the cave, tourists can relax by swimming at a small pond beside the cave's entrance. It's absolutely safe since the water does not rise above chest level, even during the rainy season.
My friend was finally satisfied with her collection of wedding photos. As for me, I had a meaningful and interesting trip.
It was so easy to have a wonderful and enjoyable weekend that I'll definitely go back. And who knows, maybe I'll be taking wedding photos myself there soon.

More detail check our website: www.vietnambiketours.asia 

There is a bigger cave than Son Doong: expert

The British Cave Research Association, led by Howard Limbert, has returned to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Bo Trach District in the central province of Quang Binh on an expected two-month trip to seek new caves after they discovered Son Doong cave, the world’s biggest, in 2010.

Son Doong cave in the central province Quang Binh is believed the world's largest now as it almost doubles the size of the current record holder Deer Cave in Malaysia. Photo: Internet.

Howard told Saigon Tiep Thi Newspaper in an interview that his team has so far explored 10 percent of the area of Phong Nha Ke Bang’s limestone desert.
“Up to 90 percent of the area remains unexplored. Possibly, there are bigger caves than Son Doong. We believe there is a bigger cave located on the edge of a mountain chain along the Ho Chi Minh Highway,” the British explorer says.
Howard says Son Doong is a monumental achievement in cave exploration in Phong Nha Ke Bang national park in the 21st century, and the cave has been introduced to the rest of the world by the US magazine National Geographic. “Son Doong has drawn attention from cave-lovers across the globe. It’s a precious thing of Vietnam and the world, too,” he says. 
Howard added that Son Doong cave also helps promote Phong Nha Ke Bang national park to the world.
“Many scientists, experts, and tourists love to go to Phong Nha Ke Bang Park. I think Son Doong will become a tourist destination in the future, not now. More research on ecological systems, geology, geomorphology, and hydrology, should be conducted before exploring tourism in the cave,” he points out.

He added that if Son Doong cave becomes a tourist attraction, the most important thing to do for local authorities is to build a suspension cable system to ensure safety for tourists and biological diversity around and inside the cave, because the ecological system is quite vulnerable. 

- Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, which was recognized as a world natural heritage site by UNESCO in 2003, the cave, 200m high and 150m wide, is believed to be almost twice the size of the current record holder, Deer Cave in Sarawak, Malaysia. -- Ho Khanh, a local man, first discovered Son Doong in 1991, but it was not until 2009 that it was made public when a group of British scientists from the British Cave Research Association (BCRA), led by Howard Limbert, conducted a survey in Phong Nha-Ke Bang. As an acknowledgement of Khanh’s contribution, Howard Limbert offered him the honor of naming the cave. Son Doong was born, and it became the world largest cave ever. -- Son Doong has been filmed by world-renowned news agencies like NHK and BBC.

  more detail check our website: www.vietnamtrekkingtours.asia

See Mai Chau on Your Bike, Hike and Dine in Style with Vietnam Bike Tours

See Mai Chau on Your Bike, Hike and Dine in Style with Vietnam Bike Tours

http://www.vietnambiketours.asia/en/vietnam-bike-tours.html 

Hanoi, Vietnam, March 12, 2012 The ride passes through many villages, across lush rice paddies and above a valley for stunning views. You will get to know the local hill tribe people – the White Thai – and their culture better when you overnight in local home stay. They can opt to stay at the Mai Chau Lodge. After a day of remote cycling, you will be rewarded and spoilt with dinner and a night at the Mai Chau Lodge

“Taking this biking tour, travelers discover Vietnam’s village life in a remote setting. Mountain bikers will love this biking trip for the variety of trails – from good single track paths, undulating rough jeep trails, to some climbs that are rewarded with ultimate descents,” .

The next day is cycling in Hang Kia, a downhill ride to Hoa Binh Town. Drive to to Cao Phong, travelers cycle from Cao Phong to the Giang Mo village of Muong Minority (2 hours). Visit Giang Mo Village before transferring back to Hanoi.

Tour cost at 257 USD per person for a private party of 2 people, including private pick up and drop off service, professional bike, helmet, drinking water, all meals, accommodation and English speaking tour guide. This offer is valid until 30 Dec 2012.

“This biking trip offers you a great opportunity to explore the outstanding nature beauty and culture richness of Mai Chau area, the gateway to the impressive Northwestern area of Vietnam. This biking tour offers you both physical activity and the opportunities to observe a lifestyle of local people that has changed little over the centuries. As you cycle in many places in Hoa Binh, you see the beautiful valleys, you encounter Flower H’mong, Muong and White Thai minorities and are guests in their traditional stilt-houses allowing you to see first-hand how these minority people live. This cycling trip is the highest quality of those offered to Mai Chau, including imported bicycles, well-trained English speaking cycling guides with experience, mechanical support and routes chosen for maximum enjoyment and sightseeing on the bike,”

For Mai Chau biking tours, visit www.vietnambiketours.asia  or email to info@vietnambiketours.asia .

Vietnam North East Cycling Holiday 15Days

Vietnam North East Cycling Holiday 15Days

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Destinations: The vietnambiketours.asia of North East Vietnam offers challenging cycling through a stunning unexplored area rich with cultural and geographical wonders. From Vietnam’s buzzing capital, Hanoi, we journey to the remote undiscovered Ha Giang region. Cycling hilly hairpin bends amongst slopes, ridges, valleys, and limestone karsts the outstanding natural beauty will take your breath away.Terraced paddy fields and surreal limestone peaks are home to a vibrant, traditional tribal culture. Crops and dwellings seem to cling to the rocky terrain. We encounter Red Dao, Tay, White Hmong, Tay and Lo Lo communities who, until recently, have lived in complete isolation from the outside world. We witness an unchanged way of life, visiting the local markets, and seeing wildlife including water buffalo, pigs and horses.
Our tour ends with a visit to spectacular Halong Bay, the World’s largest marine limestone ‘karst’ landscape. We stay on a wooden junk, modelled on traditional Vietnamese sailing boats..

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi - Arrival
Vietnam’s beautiful and tranquil capital lies at the heart of the northern Red River Delta. It is a city of lakes, leafy boulevards that still retains an air of French colonial elegance. Its fine coffee and perfect baguettes have led some to call it the ‘Paris of the East’ but it roots go all the way back to AD 1010. On arrival in Hanoi, you will be met and transferred to our hotel in the old quarter. This afternoon you have time to look around the city before a group meeting this evening with your guide.

Day 2: Hanoi. Night train to Lao Cai
Today you have time to enjoy the sights of Hanoi’s old quarter. This ancient part of Vietnam’s capital city is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets each named after a trade or guild. Nowadays it is lined with tempting restaurants, guest houses, shops and cafés but the past never seems far away. This is a charming place to either unwind or visit some of the many attractions, the most popular being the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This evening after we have had dinner, we will take the night train to Lao Cai, the border city to China.

Accommodation: Night train (sleeping berth)

Day 3 : Lao Cai - Bac Ha
This is the principal town in Lao Cai Province in North Eastern Vietnam, bordering Yunnan province, China. The border was closed from 1979 –1993 following war with China and the town mainly consists of modern architecture constructed since then. The town is now a popular destination for those journeying between Hanoi or Sapa and Kunming in China, and a key trading post. We will arrive at around 6.30 am and have breakfast in a local restaurant. Our cycling begins with 45km on gently inclining sealed road towards an uphill route over the mountain pass to Bac Ha. As we cycle up to the pass the final 15km are a tough 800m climb on unsealed road as the terrain becomes more challenging. Our efforts are rewarded with panoramic views of surrounding mountains. Bac Ha is famous for the delicious plums that grow in forests on the hillsides.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 62km Altitude range 883 M (Altitude from 80 M to 963 M)
Total climb 1,115 M
Total descent 202 M

Day 4: Bac Ha - Xin Man - Hoang Su Phi
We’re back on the bikes today cycling to Xin Man. Our route takes us into some of the remotest areas of Northeast Vietnam. The ride begins with a 10km climb of around 400m on newly sealed road before we turn off onto unsealed rough track for the next 15km heading into rural tribal areas. Then it’s a massive descent of 1000m to Xin Man. Located right on the Vietnamese/Chinese border Xin Man is hidden away in a landscape of wild mountain and forest and inhabited by 15 ethnic groups including the Nung, the Flower H'mong, the Tay, La Chi, Kinh, Hoa. After lunch we cross over the river Cahy for 40km of cycling along quiet road; there is a gentle incline as we approach Hoang Su Phi. We encounter some rough sections of road along the way but are rewarded with beautiful views of the river.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 78km
Altitude range 1359m to 269m
Total climb 1509m
Total descent 1943m

Day 5: Hoang Su Phi - Cycle over the “Heaven Gate 2” road pass to Tan Quang and along the Lo River to Ha Giang
Hoang Su Phi is one of the most untouched regions of Vietnam and communities have lived in total isolation from mainstream society until very recently. At an average elevation of 800 m above sea level with high mountains, deep valleys, streams and forestland, it is an area of outstanding natural beauty and unspoiled traditional life. Today we undertake the challenge of cycling over the ‘Heaven Gate 2’ mountain pass +895m, en route to Tan Quang. The pass offers stunning views beneath a wide open sky. You really will feel on top of the world. This afternoon we make our descent cycling past villages, rice and maize terraces cultivated by the Red Dao and Tay tribes. The aromatic scents of cardamom and star anise fill the air as we pass along our route to Tan Quang nestled down in the valley. For the final stretch of this long day’s cycling we take it easy with a leisurely cycle of 46km along the Lo river bank through unspoiled countryside to Ha Giang the sleepy capital of Ha Giang Province and approx 215 miles (350 km) Northwest of Hanoi. This is the old Silk Road.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 104km
Altitude range 889 M (Altitude from 69 M to 958 M)
Total Climb 1,260 M
Total descent 1,449 M

Day 6: Rest Day Ha Giang
Ha Giang is situated on the banks of the Lo River just below its confluence with the Mien River and in between the Mo Neo and Cam Mountains. Tay, Nung, Red Dao and White Hmong people all inhabit this region We have a day off the bikes today to relax after our exertions yesterday. The town has an ancient culture dating back to the Bronze Age and the tradition, still alive today in the local tribal communities of making bronze drums, dates back to this era. Ha Giang saw a number of minority uprisings against the French during colonial times. More recently it was badly damaged during war with the Chinese in 1979 and there are many new buildings. Ha Giang is a market centre; much of the tea grown in NE Vietnam is produced in the surrounding area and sold in the town. As well as green, yellow, black and scented varieties the speciality tea is Shan Tuyet. As our route continues in border areas we will need to arrange tourist permits at the hotel in Ha Giang these cost $10US.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 7: Ha Giang to Quan Ba
Setting off this morning we head out of town cycling for the first 25km on relatively flat road through the landscape of terraced rice paddy fields. Passing through minority villages we cycle the next 25km up winding roads into the vast limestone mountain range with its perpendicular walls of rock, climbing 800m towards the mountain road pass “Heaven gate 1”. As we pass through mountain villages sometimes covered by cloud, we will receive a friendly greeting from the local communities. From the pass we can look down at amazing views, including the famous vista of the Tam Son valley with the ‘Twin Hills and can spy Quan Ba town, our destination, in its beautiful location. It’s mainly downhill for the last 15km into Quan Ba.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 51km.
Altitude range:999M (Altitude from 110 M to 1,101 M)
Total Climb: 1,107 M
Total Descent 349 M

Day 8: Cycle Quan Ba to Yen Minh
We will want to take our time today as our beautiful surroundings offer numerous photo opportunities and the rocky limestone and karst terrain is as diverse as it is beautiful. We cycle uphill for the first few km before a descent of around 10km and then relatively flat terrain for the next 10km. It’s a challenging up and down terrain to an altitude of 1.025m before we make a final descent for the last 15km into Yenh Minh. We will have the chance to see the traditional homes of the local hill tribes. The communities in this area are Chinese.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 54 km
Altitude range553 M (Altitude from 401 M to 954 M)
Total climb 665 M
Total descent 1131 M

Day 9: Yen Minh Climb over the Rocky Plateau to Dong Van, and Meo Vac.
Today we cycle on semi-surfaced quiet roads as we undertake a challenging uphill ride out of dense cedar forest onto the rocky Dong Van plateau. A registered UNESCO Global Geopark, 80% of the terrain is covered by rock and it is said to contain fossils from 400-600million years ago. Nestled in a valley in the heart of the Rock Plateau, is the isolated town of Dong Van, very close to the Chinese border and surrounded by mountain forest and multi-coloured orchids. Meaning ‘sharing culture’ Dong Van is occupied by Chinese Hoa, and H'mong, Tay and Kinh People. The houses are built in Chinese style. As we cycle on the modest road from Dong Van to Meo Vac alongside a vast gorge, the views are spectacular. This is a winding and undulating road with the sight of the Nho Que River below. From the Ma Phi Leng Pass we look down from an altitude of around 1500m into the valley. We stay tonight in the small town of Meo Vac. Most of the tribes living here have preserved their way of life from outside influence as travelling to Meo Vac was almost impossible until the recent construction of new roads.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 72km
Altitude range1,048 M (Altitude from 260 M to 1,308 M)
Total climb 1,771 M
Total descent 1,228 M

Day 10: Meo Vac to Bao Lac
There is a market daily in the town centre of Meo Vac used mainly by the White Hmong, Tay and Lo Lo hill tribes. Women dressed in their brightly coloured traditional clothing walk into the town carrying their bamboo woven baskets laden with corn and vegetables. Today we follow a remote mountain road to Bao Lac. After a 5km uphill cycle we make a 20km descent the follow a fairly flat road for the next 10km. The surrounding landscape with predominantly limestone formations is a surreal vista of peaks, troughs, towers and caves. The crops and dwellings seem to perch precariously on the hillsides. There’s a relatively gentle uphill climb of 250m before we descend for the final 30km along flat terrain. We will pass people from the local minority communities along the way dressed in their vibrant tribal costumes. We stay tonight in Bao Lac.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 74km
Altitude range 1,070 M (Altitude from 164 M to 1,234 M)
Total climb 2,050 M
Total descent 2,833 M

Day 11: Bao Lac to Nguyen Binh
Even in this isolated mountain town there is a busy morning market. We set off for a full day of cycling along challenging terrain but the road is quiet and well surfaced. We cycle through a pretty valley to the tin-mining town Tinh Tuc, heading on to Nguyen Binh. We continue along challenging terrain, but the unparalleled beauty of our surroundings more than compensates for the challenges of the cycling.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Cycling distance: 82km

Day 12: Nguyen Binh to Hanoi
This morning we pack up our bikes and have a transfer back to Hanoi. We can relax this afternoon and enjoy the bustle and lively pace of Hanoi after our journey through the remote mountains.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 13: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay
We transfer this morning to beautiful Ha Long Bay. This spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest marine limestone ‘karst’ landscape. Travelling on a wooden junk, modelled on traditional Vietnamese court sailing boats, we will see some of the Heritage areas and quieter grottos and caves. You can swim fish and take a walk up hill for an unforgettable view over the bay. You will also have the opportunity to travel into some sea level caves in a small sampon. All meals will be provided on board (mainly seafood based).

Accommodation on the junk is twin, ensuite.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 14: Ha Long Bay to Hanoi
This morning we will cruise Ha Long Bay, and enjoy a late brunch. The boat trip finishes around midday and you will be transferred back to Hanoi to arrive late afternoon.

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included

Day 15: depart Hanoi
We will arrange a transfer to the Hanoi International Airport for your flight home.

Meal: Breakfast included.

NOTE:
Tour Difficulty: 7 / 10 Difficult
Avg. Daily Distance: 75 km
Off Road Cycling: 10%
Maximum Altitude: 1500

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours

Off Road Ho Chi Minh Motorcycle Tour - 13days

Off Road Ho Chi Minh Motorcycle Tour - 13daysMotorcycle Price

Itinerary in brief
Day 1: Hanoi - Mai Chau (~160 km, ~6 h)
Day 2: Mai Chau (~100 km, ~3 h)
Day 3: Mai Chau - Vinh (~280 km, ~8 h)
Day 4: Vinh - Dong Hoi (~230 km, ~7 h)
Day 5: Dong Hoi - Khe Sanh (~150 km, ~5 h)
Day 6: Khe Sanh - Hue (~170 km, ~6 h)
Day 7: Hue (boating and walking)
Day 8: Hue - Hoi An (~280km, ~8 h)
Day 9: Hoi An (relax)
Day 10: Hoi An - Kon Tum (~290 km, ~9 h)
Day 11: Kon Tum - Buon Ma Thuot (~240 km, ~8 h)

Day 12: Buon Ma Thuot - Nha Trang (~190 km, ~7 h)
Day 13: Nha Trang (relax)

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Mai Chau (~160 km, ~6 h)
Heading out of Hanoi on road number 6 to Mai Chau, and idyllic valley populated by mainly White Thai ethnic people. Visiting Mai Chau, you have a chance to enjoy folk songs and traditional colourful culture of White Thai in Mai Chau. The scenery of the arrival to Mai Chau is characterized with beautiful limestone mountains and colourful hill tribes who can be seen and visited on the way. We also have an opportunity en route to learn about the culture of the rice-cultivating inhabitants in the Red River valley and Da River down stream. After lunch, we have the whole afternoon free to climb up to the top of Thung Nhuoi pass. From the top of the pass there is a beautiful view of Mai Chau valley, often engulfed by clouds but still a sight to be enjoyed. After visiting this wonderful site, we drop down to explore more of the area of White Thai people.
In the evening, we can enjoy a local dinner and overnight in a beautiful village at the edge of a river. After dinner, you can spend the evening sitting together around a fire and join in a Thai traditional music show. In their traditional attire, typical of their culture, Thai women invite visitors to participate in the Xoe dance. To the rhythmical and ebullient music, the hosts and guests will dance for hours hand-in-hand. When they get tired, they stop for a while to drink special sticky rice liquor called "ruou can". Visitors who participate in the Xoe dance once, especially by the light of a fire at night are likely to remember it forever.

Day 2: Mai Chau (~100 km, ~3 h)
Today is an easy day, preparing for challenging days on Ho Chi Minh Trail
In the morning we explore the mountains to the north of Mai Chau, passing H'mong and Dao hill tribe communities living as they have for centuries. In the evening we enjoy a traditional music and dancing performance.
Alternatively, we could ride to Bai Sang to see the old forgotten Highway 6 and take a boat to explore part of the biggest reservoir in North Vietnam.
Overnight in a Thai ethnicity stilt house in Mai Chau.

Day 3: Mai Chau - Vinh (~280 km, ~8 h)
We head south on a beautiful winding road which follows the banks of the Ma River until the new Ho Chi Minh Highway. This newly carved route leads us down south, through remote back country, not far from the Laotian border. In the afternoon we cut eastwards towards the coast and stay overnight in the coastal city of Vinh, which is close to where Ho Chi Minh was born. Overnight in Vinh.

Day 4: Vinh - Dong Hoi (~230 km, ~7 h)
We ride south along Highway 1, before heading inland towards the Laotian border. We pass the Dong Loc intersection, (main junction for supply lines during the War) which is widely regarded in Vietnamese eyes as the beginning of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. We then pass through remote back country, close to the border, as the scenery steadily becomes dominated by karst limestone rock formations. Next come two famous intersections where until 1972 most of the Trail’s traffic passed over into Laos.
In the afternoon we arrive at the World Heritage site of Phong Nha where local civilians and military sheltered from incessant bombing during wartime. Then we drive down to the coastal town of Dong Hoi, which was heavily shelled by US warships during the war. At a hotel overlooking the beach, we can take in some sunbathing by the beach.
Overnight in Dong Hoi.

Day 5: Dong Hoi - Khe Sanh (~150 km, ~5 h)
We strike south through foothills which were once sprayed heavily by Agent Orange towards the former DMZ. There is still much evidence of bombing on the mountain sides and from time to time we will see remnants of the original Trail. We take in the famous Hien Luong Bridge (former demarcation line between North and South Vietnam, Khe Sanh (former US Marine base), Lang Vay (former US special forces base) and the Truong Son Cemetery.
Overnight in Khe Sanh.

Day 6: Khe Sanh - Hue (~170 km, ~6 h)
In the morning we head south over the Dakrong Bridge (built by the Cubans in 1973) into the infamous A Shau valley, an area of intense wartime activity. Passing Hamburger Hill and mountains still barren due to the extended effects of Agent Orange, we arrive at A Luoi, where there are many Bru Van Kieu hill tribe people. Then, cruising through green back country down the steep Me Oi Pass, we continue on to the beautiful city of Hue which lies along the banks of the Perfume River.
Overnight in Hue.

Day 7: Hue (boating and walking)
No riding today, just relax.
Hue is the former imperial capital of feudal Vietnam and is a perfect place to relax after our driving to date. Boat ride along the Perfume River from where you can appreciate the exuberance of this ancient imperial city. Along the river, you will visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang, Tu Duc Tombs…or visit the remains of the Imperial Citadel, which was largely destroyed during the Tet Offensive in 1968.
Overnight in Hue.

Day 8: Hue - Hoi An (~280km, ~8 h)
We head back up the Me Oi pass to A Luoi in order the rejoin the Trail. Many Ta Oi and Co Tu people will be seen tending their fields. We then skirt the Laotian border on the side of a large mountain covered in thick jungle. At the remote town of Hien we turn off the trail and drop down the Ba Na mountain range to the World Heritage Site of Hoi An, a major trading centre in SE Asia in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 9: Hoi An (relax)
Those who wish can ride up to China Beach, where US marines first landed in Indochina, otherwise enjoy a free day to explore Hoi An by foot or by bike. With fine wining and dining (including a range of Hoi An specialties), impressive architecture, fantastic tailoring, endless shopping, and a glorious beach, there is no shortage of activities to indulge in.
Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 10: Hoi An - Kon Tum (~290 km, ~9 h)
We strike back up to the mountains, rejoining the Trail at Phuoc Son (also known as Kham Duc). From there we head up the towering Lo So Pass, passing through remote areas thinly populated by peoples of the Ba Na ethnicity. Edging close to the border with Laos, where a number of Trail arteries crossed over in Laos, we continue on to Kon Tum.
Overnight in Kon Tum.

Day 11: Kon Tum - Buon Ma Thuot (~240 km, ~8 h)
In the morning we head south through the Central Highlands, passing Pleiku and the Ia Drang valley battlefield, before continuing onto Buon Ma Thuot (also known as Buon Me Thuot), the city where northern forces launched their final assault on the then Saigon. Buon Ma Thuot produces most and best coffee products in Vietnam.
Overnight in Buon Ma Thuot.

Day 12: Buon Ma Thuot - Nha Trang (~190 km, ~7 h)
We take an easy drive back down off the Tay Son highlands towards the coast, arriving at Highway 1 some 30 km north of Nha Trang. Taking in this scenic coastal stretch past turquoise waters and scarlet fishing boats, we arrive in the bright lights of Nha Trang and its relaxing holiday options.
Overnight in Nha Trang.

Day 13: Nha Trang (relax)
A free day by the beach before gathering for a seafood feast to recount our adventure and toast the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Then take the train back to Hanoi or continue your way to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Package	1 pax	2 - 3 pax	4 - 6 pax	Over 7
Off Road Ho Chi Minh Motorcycle Tour - 13days	$4,159	$2,485	$2,053	$1,705	Book now !

More detail check out website at:
http://www.greentrailtours.com.vn/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2192:off-road-ho-chi-minh-motorcycle-tour-13days&catid=42:vietnam-motorbike-motorcycle-offroad-tours&Itemid=78&book=booknow

A heavenly dish from Hue

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!

The central town of Hue often provokes people into asking about its cuisine, which not only boasts many exotic delicacies ,but also some weird names.
And names do not come any weirder than cơm âm phủ (hell rice). The name causes curiosity, even a feeling of anxiety, among visitors who nevertheless always order for it when they see it on the menu.
It is actually a simple dish, made from ingredients like pork, shrimp, egg, and vegetables.
There are various stories about the origin of the name.
The most vivid is about the rice being served at “Hell Restaurant” in Hue more than 80 years ago. The eatery was situated in a large field and opened only at night. The simple place had just oil lamps to dispel the pitch dark, the wind blew from all sides, causing an eerie, somber atmosphere. Its clientele was mainly workers, prostitutes, and their clients.
In the past, hell rice was a simple but tasty dish combining hot rice and ingredients such as braised fish, pickled bean sprout, shrimp, and pork.
Am Phu (Hell) Restaurant is now located at 35 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street opposite the stadium in Hue, but is not the apocryphal place with bamboo tables and oil lamp. It is a restaurant with electrical bulbs and reasonable tables and chairs.
The dish has become more elaborate than in the past. It still has hot rice, but also contains many items that are cut into thin strips to give it an attractive look.
Cơm âm phủ requires delicious and fragrant rice made in a rice cooker. To make the rice soft and prevent it from becoming dry, it needs to be soaked in water for two hours before cooking.

Customer can enjoy cơm âm phủin Ho Chi Minh City at the following address:Truong Nguyen Restaurant 66/5 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, District 3 La Thom Restaurant 778/45 Nguyen Kiem Street, Phu Nhuan District

Next, thin omelets are made from duck eggs without the addition of any condiments, and cut into strips.
Some prawns are peeled and pounded with a mortar and pestle after their heads are removed. A pan is heated, some oil added to it, and the prawn paste is put in. The paste is stirred over medium low heat until the shrimp turns color, indicating it is dried and done.
Depending on the taste of a customer, one can add other ingredients like pork sausage, barbecued pork, boiled chicken, or lean pork paste, which are cut into thin strips.
One can also add vegetables such as cucumber and pickled carrot radish, and scallion heads, again all sliced into thin strips.
Cơm âm phủ is eaten with a dipping sauce made by mixing fish sauce with lime, chili, garlic, and sugar.
The result is an explosion of colors and flavors.

By Nguyet Anh, Thanh Nien News (The story can be found in the February 24th issue of our print edition, Vietweek)

Cơm âm phủ (hell rice) sold at the Am Phu Restaurant on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hue

Sunday morning at Meo Vac Market – Ha Giang

Six o’clock I borrowed the hotel’s umbrella and followed the trickle of minority people heading down the street to the market. Some also carried umbrellas, others just got wet or wore raincoats or sheets of clear plastic that also covered their bamboo backpacks. Too early to smile at strangers our thin procession made its way to the large covered market.
Outside the gates was like a city of umbrellas. At first I thought the colorful women were selling water. Large plastic drums of clear liquid, but it was raining and water seemed pretty free. The street had three lines of women standing behind these drums, then I realized it was liquor, xeo, they were selling. The local firewater with thimble cups for tasters. Baskets and bamboo bongs were also on sale.
Through one of the side entrances into a smoke-blackened eating area, a pig’s head grilling on an open fire, long benches with bowls ready-laid-out of thick freshly made noodles and delicious yellow roast pig meat with thick wobbly layers of fat. Men in black jackets and berets, women in colorful skirts and headwear. Communication was impossible, a mix of languages. The smells of smoke and grilling meat in covered corridors with curtains of dripping water.
At the rear, an open tarmac.  Rows of teen and elderly women talking under umbrellas while other interests set up over-head tarps. Ropes and stays kept catching my umbrella’s tip. It was early and there was still a lot of space for arrivals to claim. Women sold large bamboo woven trays, still green, foot-long bamboo shoots like flaccid telescopes, stacks of sugarcane that they tore at with molars as strong as elephants.
On the stairs to the building, smoke wafted up from the open-fire kitchens. Chickens tucked under arms. People pushing past. Inside the market was still a good part vacant. A lot of Chinese clothes and hardware, stalls selling the local scarves, brightly woven in checkers on the loom. The Chinese shirt, black or blue, a stiff linen with dyes that leave your hands blue, displayed on tables outside the backwall. Medicine sellers, ginseng and little colorful bags full of herbs on strings to wear. I stopped for a bowl of noodles and the smoke stung my eyes. The pork was tender to die for but the broth was too salty and peppery. Men sat opposite, packed tobacco from small clear plastic packs into bamboo water pipes. I could count the smiles I received on one hand. The locals shy, unsure of foreigners.
8am… it was in full force and the rain kept on. By 11 it slowed and male drinkers were heading to the tent hotels out the back. By 1pm leaving buses were packed to the roofs. The young uninitiated males staggered home drunk, but the main show of the weekend was still on in the tent pubs and the mess hall. The women joined the men, throwing back shots and smoking. People were getting friendlier, smiling groups greeted me with invitations to drink. Tobacco and spirits, men and women letting loose after a long week climbing the towering terraced slopes and carting home loads. Dirty fingernails, glazed eyes, sugar cane and bamboo waterpipes. By Michael Smith in Ha Giang

Women selling vegetables at Meo Vac’s weekly market in Northwest Vietnam – Photo: Michael Smith

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!

Ha Giang Mountain Mystery Biking Tour

Ha Giang Mountain Mystery Biking Tour

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Destinations: Welcome to Green Trail Tours... Come on a real adventure and explore off the beaten track into the fascinating

region of Northeast Vietnam. After starting our trip in the bustling capital of Hanoi we head northwards for one of the best cycling adventures in Asia. Expect great

Mountain scenery, timeless villages and colorful hill tribes - but very few other tourists! Cycling Northeast Vietnam is a real challenge because of the mountainous terrain and remoteness but very rewarding. If you want adventure and challenge in your life this is it!

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Hanoi

The group will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel, just near the Old Quarter.

Day 2 - Ride around Hanoi and countryside

An optional city orienation tour in the morning with the afternoon free to wonder and explore Hanoi in your own time.

Meals provided: Breakfast

Day 3 - Ride around Hanoi and countryside

An early start gets us out on the bikes and into the streets of Hanoi. As the markets are humming and people are exercising around Hoan Khiem Lake, we will ride to visit The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. We will then cross the river for a ride around some of the farmlands surrounding Hanoi. The late afternoon is free for you to adjust to Vietnam.

Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch and Welcome dinner

Day 4 - Transfer to Ha Giang

After a morning walk of the Old Quarter, we will leave mid morning for our drive out of Hanoi and into the foothills of Ha Giang Province. We will reach the provincial capital in the late afternoon. This is a small town and gives us a taste of the sorts of places we will be spending out time in for the next week or so. Few travelers make their way to this province and even fewer to the areas that we will be traveling through.

Day 5 - Cycles to Tam Son

Today we begin the challenge. Shortly after leaving Ha Giang, we start climbing and continue an uphill ride through the day. We will climb over the dramatic Cong Troi Pass; we will drop into Tam Son, a very small town on the side of the mountains where we spend the night.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance Cycled: Approximately 60km

Day 6 - Cycles to Yen Minh

We start the day with a fantastic descent into a lush valley. We then follow a small river along the valley and pass the ruins of a French position from the Indochina war. We then start climbing again to reach the top of Doan Kiet pass. We then descend into Yen Minh, which sits at the base of another sub-range of mountains bordering China.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance cycled: 65km

Day 7 - Cycle to Dong Van

We enjoy some level ground as we leave town and then after our first rest stop, start climbing. Today’s climbs are harder, but more spectacular, as we move into a higher altitude. We will climb through the black volcanic rock, where you will see various hill-tribes seeking out a living from this infertile ground. The colorful, traditional costumes of these people will help you to face the challenge of the mountains, and the views over these spectacular mountains and through the huge gorges will reward your efforts. Tonight we stay in the mountain town of Dong Van. At this point, we are less than 20km from the Chinese border.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Distance cycled: 68km

Day 8 - Cycle and drive to Ha Giang

We set off through Chinese, border frontier country. We pass many houses of the hill tribes, constructed from compacted mud. We have some climbing to do, before we enjoy a big descent on our loop back to Yen Minh. From Yen Minh, we will drive back to Ha Giang where we spend the night.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance cycled: 43km

Day 9 - Cycle to Vinh Quang

Today we start with an easy ride along a valley for about 50km, before tackling a climb and then a descent to reach the small town of Vinh Quang.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance cycled: 90km

Day 10 - Cycle then Jeeps to Bac Ha

Today is a relatively easy ride with some rolling hills along a river towards Xi Man. From here we meet our hill tribes, bushy mechanics and their Russian built jeeps who will take us over the dramatic range separating Xi Man from our overnight home of Bac Ha. Bac Ha is becoming popular with day trippers from Sapa, who come to visit the once a week market. The people of this area are colorfully dressed and even on an ordinary day; there is plenty of interesting merchandise through town.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance Cycled: 21km

Day 11 - Cycle to Lao Cai & Overnight train

We start with a 40km continuous downhill. Your legs will forget what it was like to have to pedal as you sweep down this wide road into the Lao Cai Valley. We then ride along fairly flat ground to reach Lao Cai town. Lao Cai is the border checkpoint town with China. It is also where we catch our overnight train to Hanoi. We will have a shower and dinner before boarding the sleeper train.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Distance cycled: 60km

Day 12 - Hanoi Free time

We will arrive very early in the morning into Hanoi, so a nap might be a good idea before setting out to explore the city. Tonight we will celebrate our achievements!

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 13 - Hanoi - Departure

The group will transfer to the airport for a flight back to your home.

Meals included: Breakfast.

To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!

Ha Giang Challenging The Far North Bike Tour

Ha Giang Challenging The Far North Bike Tour

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Destinations: Challenging through part of the far north. Magnificient landscapes of Bac Ha Highland and Chay River massif amd untouched villages of the remotest far north.

Attending one of the regional tribal market. Meeting different tribal ethnic peoles for an unique culature and way of life discovery.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Lao Cai

8pm transfer pick up you at your hotel in Hanoi to railway station for night train up to Sapa.

Day 2: Lao Cai – Regional Triabal Market - Bac Ha – Ban Pho Valley(B; L; -)

- Early arrival to Lao Cai station from 05.30 to 06.30 depending on different train.

- Freshen up, breakfast in a local restaurant.

- 07.30 leave Lao Cai for a road transfer to one of the regional markets as following: Coc Ly(Tue), Cao Son(Wed), Lung Khau Nhin(Thur), Can Cau(Sat) and Bac Ha(Sun).

- Enjoy about 2 hours joining the local ethnic peoples such as H’mong, Zao, Tay, Phu La…experiencing the festive atmosphere and lively activities as well as understanding of the regional spiritual life.

- Transfer to Bac Ha Town let and check in Sao Mai hotel around noon time. The Bac Ha market on Sunday takes place right in this charming town.

- Warming up for aprox 2 hours in the afternoon by cycling 12 km up and downhill around the Ban Pho Valley.

- Overnight in Bac Ha.

Transfer: from 75 to 140 km depending on the market to visit.

Biking: 3 km paved road; 4 km rocky road up steep hill; 5 km single dirt track downhill. Slopes is from 5% to 25%.

Acc: Sao Mai Hotel(2 star)

Meals: Breakfast in restaurant in Lao Cai, Lunch on the way or Bac Ha. Dinner is on clients’ own in Bac Ha.

Day 3: Bac Ha – Can Cau – Ta Cu Ty(B; L; D)

- Breakfast and check out Sao Mai hotel at 08.30 am.

- Start biking from hotel following the motor way 3 km to the center of Lau Thi Ngai Commune.

- Cross the stream by suspension bridge and then ejoy an easy ride on a single dirt track along a stunning valley for 4 km before challenging 5 km up steep hill trail to Lung Phin.

- Follow the motor way again for 2,5 km and then turn left to another single dirt track for 22 km, passing through several small hamlets of the H’mong peoples to Can Cau market place.

- Arrive at Can Cau at about 4.00 pm. Stop biking and then transfer by road for 45 minutes to Ta Cu Ty.

- The trail today runs mostly through populated valleys which featured of terraced rice paddies and cornfields on steep hills sides as well as chances to meet local tribal peoples such as Flower H’mong, Zao and Tay.

Transfer: 29 km

Biking: 5,5 km paved road; 31 km single track up and down hills. Slopes is from 8% to 22%.

Acc: Home stay in the Tay house on stilts at Ta Cu Ty Village

Meals: Breakfast at hotel, lunch on the way, dinner at home stay

Day 4: Ta Cu Ty – Ban Ngo – Nam Dan(or Gio Pass)(B; L; D)

- Breakfast and say good bye to hosting family at 08.30.

- Biking along a single track which form a half circle around the Ta Cu Ty mountain range and is a combination of short lose rocky part and dirt trails with some stream crosses for 21 km from Ta Cu Ty to Dan Khao Village of Ban Ngo Commune via several villages and hamlets of the Nung, H’mong and Zao ethnic peoples.

- Lunch break at Dan Khao, a newly settled-down village.

- There are 3 choices for afternoon biking from here:

Opt 1: Continuing along the same track for 9 km on high elevation of Ta Cu Ty range to home stay at Nam Chien Village with ½ hour visiting to the interesting rock fields with messages of the ancient peoples carved on many big rocks at Nam Dan Village. Arrival at home stay at about 3.00 pm.

Opt 2: Making a short loop for about 2 hours along a narrow and steep single dirt track from Dan Khao Village to home-stay at Nam Chien Village, Nam Dan Commune:

+ 5 km downhill to the suspension bridge 1.

+ 2,5 km uphill and then 2 km downhill to bridge 3, then 1,5 km uphill again to the motor way

near the center of Nam Dan commune.

+ 3 km paved road to home stay at Nam Chien and arrival at the home stay at about 4.30 pm.

Opt 3: Making a longer loops for nearly 3 hours along a steep and narrow single track from Dan Khao Village to Che La Commune and then continue to home-stay at Nam Chien Village, Nam Dan Commune:

+ 5 km downhill to suspension bridge 1

+ 6 km uphill to the junction in Che La Commune.

+ Turn right and gradually getting downhill for 7 km to suspension bridge 3.

+ 2,5 km uphill again from the bridge 3 to home-stay.

Transfer: 0 km

Biking:

Opt 1: Easy 29 km single track up and down hills.Slopes is from 5% to 20%.

Opt 2: 32 km single track and 3 km paved road. Slopes is from 5% to 22%.

Opt 3: 41,5 km single track and 3. Slopes is from 8% to 30%.

Acc: Home stay in the Nung house on stilts at Nam Chien Village, Nam Dan Commune.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel, lunch on the way, dinner at home stay.

- If choosing to stay overnight at Gio Pass site in stilts house amongst thick forest, please add 7 km biking or transferring along the motor way up steep hill.

Day 5: Nam Dan(or Gio Pass Site) – Nam Nhung – Khau Rom – Nam Choong(B; L; D)

- Breakfast and leave home stay in Nam Chien at about 08.30 am.

- Warming up by following the good motor way for 14 km through thick rain forest from home-stay over the Gio Pass to the southern side of the.

- Turn left to a single dirt track for 12 km mostly steep downhill through tea farms, terraced rice paddies, bamboo forest, passing some isolated hamlets of the Zao and H’mong ethnic of Nam Nhung and Khau Rom Villages to the main road which run along the Nam Ly River.

- Following the main road for 3 km to a suspension bridge and cross the Nam Ly River to the sounthern bank.

- Take the single dirt track uphill 5 km through Phieng Lang and Quang Thuong Villages of the Red Zao and then 3 km on the hill side with not too much up and down before challenging 5 km downhill along a narrow and steep dirt track to Nam Choong Village.

- Arrive at the Nam Choong local tourist site near the hot mineral spring at about 5.00 pm.

Transfer: 0 km

Cycling: 17 km paved road; 25 km single dirt track up and down hills with slope varies from 8 to 28%.

Acc: Home stay at a local tourist site near hot spring at Nam Choong Village.

Meals: Breakfast at home stay, lunch on the way, dinner at home stay

Day 6: Nam Choong – Cao Son – Ho Thau Commune – Ho Xan Village. (B; L; D)

- Breakfast and leave Nam Choong at about 08.30 am.

- Start biking along a narrow single track from Nam Choong for 6 km to the center of Quang Nguyen Commune.

- Then following a single dirt track agradually uphill along the Nam Ly River through the Trung Son Village for 10 km.

- Challenging 4 km down and up very steep trail to cross the upstream of Nam Ly River to the other bank. Bikes may have to be carried for about 30 m.

- Following a larger single track uphill for 5 km to Chien Thang Village and then gradually downhill for 6 km to the center of Ho Thau Commune.

- Uphill for 4 km along the concret road to Ho Xan Village of the Red Zao and Nung ethnic.

- Arrival to home stay at Ho Xan Village at about 4.30 pm.

Transfer: 0 km

Biking: 4 km paved road; 31 km single dirt track up and down hills. Slopes is from 8% to 30%.

Acc: Home stay in stilts house of the Nung at Ho Xan Village.

Meals: Breakfast at home stay, lunch on the way, dinner at home stay

Day 7: Ho Xan – Nam Son – Nam Khoa – Panhou(B; L; D)

- Breakfast and then leave Ho Xan Village at 08.30.

- Cycle along a single dirt track almost downhill for 12 km from Ho Xan Village Via Sin Chai Village to Nam Son Bridge. Take a short rest by the river.

- Then follow the large road up steep hillfor 14km to the Nam Khoa Heaven Gate. This part offers stunning scenery of thick rain forest with narrow terraced rice paddies on steep hill sides.

- Lunch break.

- Getting downhill along another large single dirt track for nearly 10 km along the Nam Khoa Valley to the Junction of the Nam Khoa River. Scenery features with small vallages of the Zao and the Nung surrounded by tea farms, plantation and terraced rice paddies stretching along 2 sides of the valley.

- Turn left and then follow a very narrow single dirt track winding its way up and down on steep steep hills sides along the Nam Khoa River for 8 km to Thong Nguyen Commune.

- Follow the narrow concret motor way for 2,5 km to the Panhou.

Transfer: 0 km

Biking: 16,5 km large road; 30 km single dirt track up and down hills. Slope is from 5% to 28%

Acc: At the Panhou eco-site

Meals: Breakfast at home stay, lunch on the way, dinner at Panhou.

Day 8: Panhou – Ha Noi(B; L; -)

- Breakfast and check out the Panhou at 08.00 for a full day transfer by road 315 km to Ha Noi via Tuyen Quant, Viet Tri,...

- Lunch in a local restaurant along the way and arrive in Ha Noi at about 06.00 pm.

 To get more informations about the trip, please take a look to this link:
Vietnam Bike Tours - http://www.vietnambiketours.asia
Premiere custom bike tours for private & group in Vietnam & beyond!