Vietnam Travel News
Vietnam Travel News is here to help keep you up to date with what's going on in Vietnam. Maybe there are new hotel openings, transport routes or new tours. It maybe a weather warning of a possible typhoon in Halong Bay or floods occurring in Hoi An. Or transportation routes blocked because of landslides in northern regions such as Ha Giang and Cao Bang.
Articles & Awards
It could also mention awards or interesting articles written by foreign travel magazines about the Vietnam tourism industry.
Vietnam Travel News will hopefully help in your decision to travel to Vietnam with Travel Agent Hanoi for your holiday.
Take a look at some of our newest Vietnam Travel News today. If you would like to be updated by email about special offers or discounts, please fill in the form at the bottom of our website!
26th October 2023
New Manila to Danang Direct Flight!
Exciting news for travel enthusiasts and adventurers alike! Starting from December 2023, a direct route from Danang in Vietnam to Manila will be launched. This will make it easier than ever to explore the captivating beauty of both countries. Starting from the 7th December 2023, low-cost airline Cebu Pacific Air with begin this direct route which will hopefully transform Danangs tourism expectations.
This new route promises not only convenience but also opportunity. Opportunity to witness the seamless blend of cultural heritage & stunning landscapes that both Danang & Manila have to offer.
History & Cuisine!
Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Danang, with its pristine beaches, lush mountains, and rich history, before embarking on a journey to Manila, known for its bustling city life, historical landmarks, and mouthwatering cuisine.
This direct route is a gateway to a multitude of experiences, from exploring ancient temples and pagodas, to indulging in delectable street food, to diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Whether you crave adventure or seek tranquility, this new connection between Danang and Manila opens up a world of possibilities. It encourages travelers to create unforgettable memories and forge lasting connections between two extraordinary destinations.
25th October 2023
Hanoi in Winter 2023
Hanoi, has recently been recognised as one of the world's best winter vacation destinations for 2023. Known for its rich history, captivating culture, and stunning landscapes, Hanoi offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a winter getaway.
The city comes alive during the winter months, with a pleasant climate and a host of exciting activities and attractions to explore.
Wandering the busy Old Quarter, with narrow alleyways and charming colonial architecture. Or visiting the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake with its picturesque red "The Huc" bridge. There is no shortage of things to see and do in Hanoi.
Wintry Food in Hanoi
Food lovers will delight in the city's gastronomic delights. Winter time brings out a whole new array of different food, perfect for those winter evenings. Hot Pot, BBQ and hot steaming bowls of Pho, Bun Rieu, Bun Ca (soup) are usually on the local Vietnamese person's daily menu.
For those looking to dig deep into Vietnam's history, Hanoi is home to a number of museums and historical sites.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature are just two popular places to visit in Hanoi. But why not try an evening out in the bright lights and visit Hoa Lo Prison or Thang Long Citadel on their newly opened evening tours...two which you should not miss.
Day Trips
Also, with many day trips from Hanoi available to nearby stunning landscapes. There is a lot to choose from. Such as of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh & Ba Vi being the most accessible.
Providing a perfect blend of city exploration and natural beauty.
With its warm hospitality, incredible sights, and diverse experiences. Hanoi truly deserves its recognition as a top winter vacation destination for 2023.
For a last minute trip to Hanoi and Vietnam for winter 2023, contact us now for a free quote!
24th October 2023
New 55km Hike
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam, the new trekking road from Tà Năng to Phan Dũng offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and hiking enthusiasts alike. This recently developed trail showcases the stunning beauty of the Central Highlands region, taking trekkers through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills.
As you embark on this journey, you will be greeted by picturesque views of vibrant greenery, vibrant flora and fauna, and the soothing sounds of nature. The trail offers a diverse range of terrain, from challenging uphill climbs to gentle descents, allowing trekkers of all levels to enjoy the experience.
Culture?
Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to witness the unique culture and traditions of the local ethnic minority communities, who reside in the surrounding areas.
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals, indulge in delicious traditional cuisine, and learn about their centuries-old customs and way of life.
Whether you're a seasoned trekker seeking a new challenge or a nature lover craving a connection with the outdoors, the new trekking road from Tà Năng to Phan Dũng promises an unforgettable and enriching experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
24th October 2023
New Documentary Planet Earth III Highlights Vietnam Cave
In the latest installment of the highly acclaimed nature documentary series, Planet Earth III. Viewers are in for a breathtaking treat as they embark on a mesmerizing journey through the incredible Son Doong cave.
Located in Vietnam, Son Doong is the world's largest cave and one of the most captivating wonders of the natural world. As the cameras glide through the cave's massive chambers, viewers are treated to awe-inspiring sights of colossal stalagmites and stalactites that have formed over millions of years, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Ecosystem!
The documentary delves into the cave's unique ecosystem, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna that call this subterranean paradise home. The sheer magnitude of Son Doong, with its mesmerizing underground rivers and ethereal natural light, is a testament to the raw power and beauty of Mother Nature.
As viewers are transported into this hidden realm, they can't help but be in awe of the stark contrast between the darkness of the cave and the vibrant life that thrives within it.
With its inclusion in Planet Earth III, Son Doong takes its rightful place as a global natural treasure, captivating audiences and reminding us of the extraordinary wonders that our planet has to offer.
Trips to Son Doong?
Trips here are quite limited (2024 is now fully booked) and expensive at around US$3500 per person. But, we can offer cave adventures to other caves in Phong Nha which don't require you to re-mortgage your home, so do contact us for more information about Pygmy Cave, Ong Cave, En Cave and Elephant Cave to name just a few. Camping and jungle trekking for the adventurous visiting Vietnam.
23rd October 2023
New Culinary Award for Hanoi!
Hanoi, has recently been bestowed with the prestigious title of Asia's best emerging culinary city.
This recognition comes as no surprise to those who have had the pleasure of exploring food in Hanoi. The city is a gastronomic paradise. Traditional Vietnamese dishes are prepared with skill and finesse. Flavors burst with an explosion of taste.
From the iconic pho, a steaming bowl of aromatic broth filled with tender noodles & succulent slices of meat. To the crispy and flavorful banh mi, a crusty baguette filled with a harmonious blend of pâté, pickled vegetables, and grilled meats. Hanoi's culinary scene is a true reflection of the country's rich culinary heritage.
The vibrant street food culture is truly captivating. Busy markets in narrow alleyways come alive with the sizzling sounds of grills. The tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked dishes are everywhere in Hanoi. The city's food scene is not only a celebration of taste. But also a reflection of its cultural diversity and history. With influences from Chinese, French, and Thai cuisines seamlessly woven into its culinary tapestry.
Budget or High Flying?
Whether you choose to dine in a humble street-side stall or a sophisticated restaurant. The passion and dedication of Hanoi's chefs will undoubtedly leave you with a memorable and mouth watering experience.
As the city embraces its newfound reputation as Asia's best emerging culinary destination. More and more food enthusiasts from around the world are flocking to Hanoi. They are here to embark on a gastronomic journey that will delight their taste buds and leave them craving for more.
To take a unique special private street food tour in Hanoi, do contact us for a tour now with a local Vietnamese guide.
23rd October 2023
Night Tour of Temple Of Literature
Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, has recently introduced an exciting and enchanting experience for tourists and locals alike - a night tour to the illustrious Temple of Literature. This initiative aims to showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of Hanoi in a unique and captivating way.
As the sun sets and the cityscape transforms into a dazzling array of lights, visitors are invited to embark on a journey through time as they explore the centuries-old temple. The tour offers a whimsical ambiance, with the temple beautifully illuminated, casting a soft glow onto the intricate architectural details and ancient artifacts.
Guided Services
Expert guides provide fascinating insights into the temple's significance as Vietnam's first national university, highlighting its role in education and scholarly pursuits throughout history. The night tour provides a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of this esteemed landmark.
Additionally, the tour includes cultural performances and traditional music, further enhancing the overall experience. This night tour to the Temple of Literature is undoubtedly a remarkable way to discover Hanoi's cultural treasures and adds a touch of magic to the already captivating city.
Contact us to include in your itinerary with Travel Agent Hanoi, your local Vietnam Travel Agency.
5th September 2023
This weeks Vietnam travel news takes us to the beach, up high and far ahead!
Always One Step Ahead?
Firstly, outside of Vietnam. There is news in Thailand that the new government is thinking up ways to increase tourism in the country. Having received just 15.3 million tourists in the first 7 months, of a targeted 30 million. One of the ways to help has been proposed.
They are looking to increase the current 30 day tourist visa to 90 days. Just when Vietnam have increased theirs (only for certain countries - post below) from 15 days to 45 days. Thailand are now stepping up their game.
Will Vietnam follow suit or is this as far as Vietnam is prepared to go for its tourism industry. Email us your comments to booking@travelagenthanoi.com
Your idea of Beach Time?
So it was the national holidays in Vietnam last weekend. Many Vietnamese had a 4 day break to celebrate Independence day on 2nd September. It is a time for Vietnamese to travel home and enjoy loved ones company with food and drink. Our family had a get together in the village and had some amazing food as you can see. Happy times!
If you are travelling to Vietnam during this time, as a foreign traveller, its best to book early if going to any hotspots. Such places as Halong Bay, Ninh Binh in the north. Danang and Nha Trang in central regions and Vung Tau and Phu Quoc in the south.
Just a few photos we have seen on news outlets around Vietnam show the beaches at full capacity. Not my idea of fun I can tell you. Some suchas Danang and Nha TRang were not so crowded due to the weather.
Ninh Binh itself is usually completely packed out, with all homestays fully booked and if you can find a decent cruise to Halong Bay (6400 tickets sold in one morning), you will be lucky!
So definitely contact us in plenty of time if you are looking to travel around this time. It does just happen to be at the start of the kids going back to school, so maybe not such a problem for those with children but if you are past the kids stage, do look us up.
Direct & Up High!
Finally, with new routes opening up around the world in to Vietnam. A new route from Perth to Ho Chi Minh City has opened up, with the national carrier, Vietnam Airlines. If you are an Aussie and want a decent airline direct to Vietnam, then this is definitely an option.
With the continuing increase in tourism, this route has been set up to also increase business opportunities between the two countries.
Flights from Perth on VN790 will depart at 12.50am. every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday, arriving in Ho Chi Minh City at 6.10am. the following day. This gives people a wonderful opportunity to hit the ground running early in the day to explore Saigon City life.
To celebrate this new route, we have designed a new package from Saigon to Hanoi to help promote tourism to Vietnam for our Aussie friends.
This is a standard trip and can be modified to meet your exact needs and is a very flexible itinerary. Add in a cocktail experience in Hoi An, a coffee workshop in Hanoi. Switch out a standard city tour and do it in style in a Military War Jeep...the list is endless!
Contact us now and we will arrange that perfect trip for you.
Travel Agent Hanoi
17th August 2023 - New Visas Are In!!
So it finally happened, just a few weeks before the school holidays in the west!!! But it is in nevertheless. So if you are planning on a holiday this winter, or in spring 2024. Do check out the news and then get in touch with us!
According to the government earlier this week, Vietnam has now decided to grant e-visas starting from the 15th August 2023, to citizens of all countries entering Vietnam.
New e-visa will be valid for up to 90 days
Now this is good news for those expats or digital nomads who want to come and live here, or perhaps retirees for the winter...
BUT, the best news is that those countries that were allowed entry in to Vietnam for 15 days without a visa. Has now been extended to 45 days. Here is a list of those countries...
Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Russia & Japan. South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland & Belarus.
Are you on the list and want to visit Vietnam for a holiday? Check out our 15 Day Vietnam Discovery Tour!
Contact us now and we will arrange that perfect trip for you.
Travel Agent Hanoi
24th June 2023 - New Visa News!
Today the National Assembly have approved a proposal by the Vietnam government to extend e-visas for foreign tourists.
In their proposal, which will be granted from 15th August 2023. The current 30 day e-visa will be extended to 90 days. Sources say this will help facilitate the arrival of more foreign investors, giving them more time to find business in Vietnam. These will also be made available as multi entry visas, which was a huge headache for many travellers before.
Increase in Free entry?
In their meeting, they have also looked at the countries permitted free entry for 15 days. To increase to 45 days. This is a huge increase and one that will make a lot of visitors to Vietnam very happy.
Now if they only added more countries to the e-visa list, such as South Africa, Israel etc. This would be a slam dunk for the tourism industry, but small steps is a good thing.
Contact us now and we will arrange that perfect trip for you.
Travel Agent Hanoi
22nd June 2023 - Dolphins Spotted off Danang Coast!
If you are heading to Danang, there maybe a special treat in store. A pod of dolphins have been spotted off the Son Tra Peninsular (where the White Buddha Lady stands). Fishermen have been spotting them swimming and their videos have gone viral on social media.
If you fancy the chance to see dolphins, do contact us to find out more. Check out our Danang tours to Son Tra and if you are lucky enough to see them, it would make for a memorable day.
Contact us now and we will arrange that perfect trip for you.
Travel Agent Hanoi
*Pic for reference only!
22nd May 2023 - Exciting New Tours with Travel Agent Hanoi!
As part of our ever growing business to offer better and more diverse products in Hanoi and around Vietnam. We now have new tours we would like to offer you all for your trip to Vietnam.
Hanoi
In Hanoi, we have various new opportunities for the Vietnam traveller. Tours such as Coffee Blending & Tasting, Military motorbike tours & more. We have also introduced a group Street Food Tour in Hanoi, bringing down the price in these difficult times.
Ha Giang
In Ha Giang we introduce our new Military Jeep tours for the 2, 3 or 4 or 5 day Ha Giang Loop tours. An amazing trip which has already been completed by many new clients this year. Perfect for those who do not have confidence in riding on the back of an Easy Rider. Or if you do not have an International Drivers Permit (Police are cracking down on illegal riders).
Hoi An
In Hoi An, we now have a Secret Cocktail tour which is a marvellous introduction to the nightlife in Hoi An. Provided by a professional guide showing you the delights of a tipple or two.
Saigon
In Saigon, we now have many speedboat tours to Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangroves & Mekong Delta. We also have private Sampan Boats for a 3 day cruise along the Mekong Rivers from Can Tho and Cai Be…..
It’s all hotting up guys and we look forward to you all visiting Vietnam with Travel Agent Hanoi.
Contact us now and we will arrange that perfect trip for you.
Travel Agent Hanoi
23rd December 2022 - More Countries for 30 Day Vietnam E-Visa?
There has been a proposal put to the government today by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Nguyen Van Hung, to include more countries on the e-visa list allowed entry to Vietnam.
Currently there are only 80 countries permitted to apply for an e-visa to visit Vietnam for 30 days. This is considered by many in the tourism industry, to be the main reason for the low numbers of foreign tourists travelling to Vietnam.
He also urged the government to extend the visa free entry for foreign tourists to 30 days instead of the 15 days currently allowed for some countries. Also, wishing to reinstate the visa on arrival to facilitate more foreigners arriving through immigration to boost numbers.
How many tourists?
Vietnam only achieved approximately 3.5 million international visitors this year, much lower than its target of 5 million.
Vietnam waives visas for foreign travellers from only 24 countries compared to 162 for Malaysia, 157 for the Philippines and 65 for Thailand.
Hung said 15 days "is too short compared to other countries in the region as European tourists tend to stay for 3-4 weeks."
Let's see if this new proposal is heard or not!
4th December 2022 - Michelin Guide Enters Vietnam!
Vietnam has long been on the foodie trail for the best food, Hanoi Street Food being the most notable and famous of them all.
It is not then surprising to hear that The Michelin Guide has been looking at Vietnam for a long time and has now decided to evaluate restaurants for the very first time. A list of those restaurants will be offered in June 2023.
We hope they are not the western style fusion restaurants which have cropped up in cities like Ho Chi Minh City, but are local Vietnamese Chefs with their own restaurant's which show off the true Vietnamese dishes, flavour, taste and culture.
There are Vietnamese restaurants around the word which have made it in to the Michelin Guide with top Vietnamese chefs. So we see no reason why real Vietnamese dishes by real Vietnamese, cannot also be included from Vietnam too.
Which Vietnamese restaurants?
Vietnamese restaurant's like Bonjour Vietnam Bistro in Vancouver, Canada, or Hello VietNam in Taipei, Taiwan along with Nhà Hàng Vietnam in Chicago, USA.
"We have been looking at Vietnam’s gastronomic scene for quite a long time," said Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec on Thursday. "We are delighted to finally announce the Michelin Guide’s arrival in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City."
Which restaurants have you been to, which would make the cut?
For any foodie wishing to try some amazing Vietnamese Street Food here in Vietnam. We have tours all over, such as Travel Agent Hanoi's very own Ngát, on her famous Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour, also an exciting Street Food Tour with Nightlife thrown in, by Vintage Vespas!
4th December 2022 - Fodor's Go List - Ho Chi Minh City Makes The To Go List 2023!
Vietnam has been in the travel magazines again and this time, a city in Vietnam has made it to the Go To List of places to visit in Asia in 2023!
As it is centre of the Vietnamese economy and also the country's largest. Ho Chi Minh City has 24 districts offering a multitude of activities, places to see, cuisine to eat and savour. Also, a hub to see and do a lot more cultural activities & tours outside the city.
District 1 being the centre for all the bars and restaurants it has to offer the foreign tourist visiting Ho Chi Minh City on their Vietnam vacations! Formerly known as Saigon, with many people still calling it that. Ho Chi Minh City is the gateway to Vietnam's rich and turbulent history from French colonisation, to the end of the American War.
Historical Sights Not to Miss!
So many historical sights can be seen on Daily Half Day Saigon City Tours, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office, Independence Palace & the War Remnants museum for a stark look to the past.
The skyline is an envious sight from its capital city Hanoi, with boat trips along the Saigon River at night, with fine dining experiences. A night in the lights, gives you that certain buzz of a metropolitan city ahead of the times. Cafes, restaurants and even rooftop bars have all recently taken to the scene and is ever evolving in to a fine dining experience but still offering that street food experience to keep their feet firmly on the ground.
Check out Ben Thanh market for bargains (if you haggle hard enough) and also street food nearby with delightful dishes for every palette.
Ho Chi Minh City is a well deserved entry in to the Fodor's Go To List.
Check out our Saigon Day Tours Today!
3rd December 2022 - New Direct International Flights to Vietnam!
Today we have seen in the news, first reported by VN Express, that the international route between Bangkok, Thailand and Dalat in Vietnam has been restored for the first time in 3 years. Thai Viet Jet which is a. subsidiary company of VietJet Air, have restarted this rout from Bangkok to Dalat with four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Dalat is located in the Central Highlands at around 1,500 meters above sea level and enjoys cool weather throughout the year and is famous for its French colonial heritage.
Check back for more news from Vietnam travel.
2nd December 2022 - Vietnam Formula 1 Grand Prix 2023 A Possibility?
It's been reported in the news that the Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix, in April 2023, has been cancelled. This now leaves a gap of 1 month between Formula 1 races in Azerbaijan and Melbourne. Formula 1 bosses are in talks with other venues to plug this gap in the F1 schedule.
Can Vietnam rise up and join the Formula 1 race schedule last minute? Vietnam is currently the go to place for many industries, tech firms, factory makers of products sold in the west, taking away the business from China since the pandemic caused upheaval. So will this be another cheeky switch of fortune for Vietnam?
Our thoughts!
To be honest, the outlook for an F1 in Hanoi for 2023 or in the future is bleak, the stadium and track having been abandoned for over two years.
Could they get it ready in time, it is very doubtful, BUT, we won't know until F1 make an official announcement which I feel would be very soon.
But, if you still wish to visit Vietnam without a Grand Prix Race, check out our website for package trips, day tours & special offers!
1st December 2022 - Vietnam Visa situation!
We would just like to go over a few points about the Vietnam visa process & situation, as of December 2022.
Vietnam currently grants e-visas to citizens from 80 countries. The only true website to obtain an e-visa, is government run and not affiliated with any agency. It will cost you $25 per e-visa and takes approximately 3 working days to be processed. If you are being charged more than $25 for an e-visa to Vietnam. You are using an agency and not the official website.
However, during the weekends or Vietnamese Holidays. Your e-visa application will not be looked at and so please leave plenty of time to apply and be accepted.
For example, if you are in the UK and have applied for an e-visa to Vietnam on the Friday morning or even afternoon your time. I would not count Friday as one working day, therefore take it as being Monday or Tuesday as the beginning of your application. Please don't think you will get it by Tuesday or Wednesday the following week. Give yourself plenty of time!
How the Process Works!
If you need to see how the process works, we have a step by step video offering you details about this, check it out!
We do hope in the near future that more countries will be added to this list of 80 countries. Countries such as South Africa, Israel to name just a couple. But currently, this has not been forthcoming.
Still no word on multi entry visas, longer visas or visa approval letters for all travellers. The Embassies are giving out information to send you to travel agencies to offer an approval letter as part of a package with them. We wouldn't offer this service due to the lengthy process and unpredictable outcomes (not guaranteed - no refunds etc) so we wouldn't advise it.
Thank you and see you soon for further Vietnam Travel News!
We will be back with more Vietnam Travel News shortly, for any more information, please do contact us now!
