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Showing posts from September, 2023

BBC’s Travel Blog Features Four Signature Hanoi Dishes

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Hanoi is renowned for its culinary delights, with four dishes making it onto the prestigious list of 121 Typical Delicacies of Vietnam. These include the iconic pho (noodle soup), bun oc (vermicelli soup with snail), com Vong (dishes made from young stick rice flakes), and bun thang (vermicelli noodle with assorted toppings). Bun thang is one among Hanoi delicacies honored. On September 29, the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association (VCCA) held a ceremony in Hanoi to recognize and award certificates to 121 exemplary culinary dishes selected for Phase 1 (2022) of the project “Building and Developing Vietnamese Culinary Culture into a National Brand”. The association also announced Phase 2 (2023) of the project. During the first phase, a total of 421 culinary dishes from 60 out of 63 provinces and cities were nominated. With the expertise of cultural, historical, and gastronomic experts, the VCCA carefully handpicked 121 typical Vietnamese dishes for the project. These d

Preserving Intangible Cultures in Hanoi: The Role of Artisans

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During a recent workshop in Hanoi, Associate Professor Tran Thi An, President of the Hanoi Folk Arts Association, highlighted the importance of folk artists in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the city. By transmitting the essential values of Hanoi’s ancient culture, these artists play a vital role in safeguarding the intangible cultural treasures of the capital. A performance by the Hanoi Ca tru Club at Kim Ngan Temple, No.42 Hang Bac Street. Photo courtesy of the club During a workshop titled “The Role and Responsibility of Artisans in Protecting and Promoting the Value of Hanoi’s Intangible Cultural Heritage,” she emphasized the significance of folk artists in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. These artisans possess a social responsibility to safeguard and promote the values associated with cultural heritage. According to researcher Le Hong Ly, it is crucial for folk artists to play a more active role in educating the community, partic

Hanoi Photographer Receives Recognition at International Photography Awards 2023

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Hanoi-based photographer Tran Viet Van, from Lao Dong (Labor) newspaper, received an honorable mention at the 20th International Photography Awards (IPA) 2023 in the US. Van’s entry, titled “The Rhythm of Time,” consists of nine color photos and was recognized in the Press Photo category. The photos showcase the daily life and activities of Cuban people in Old Havana and Trinidad during his visit to the Latin American country in November 2022. Some of the images from this series have previously won an Honorable Mention in the Press Photo category at the World Master of Photography Awards in Austria and a Third Prize at the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year in the UK, the world’s leading award for food photography. The IPA 2023 received over 15,000 entries from 120 countries worldwide. Esteemed photography experts from the US, the UK, France, Germany, and Italy selected excellent works in various categories for exhibitions and publication in books. The winners in categories s

Resumption of Tourist Boat Service on Vietnam’s Scenic Nho Que River in Ha Giang

Tu San Agricultural and Tourism Service Cooperative, the sole provider of tourist boat services on the Nho Que River in Meo Vac District, announced the reopening of boat transportation to Tu San Canyon via the Nho Que 1 Hydropower Plant route. Starting at 7:00 am on Thursday, tourists can once again enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Southeast Asia’s deepest canyon, which stretches 1.7 kilometers and features imposing cliffs reaching heights of up to 800 meters. This announcement follows a directive from the Ha Giang Province People’s Committee and a productive meeting between the cooperative, Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC, and the Meo Vac District People’s Committee. The cooperative had temporarily suspended boat service after the expiration of their contract with Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC. Despite facing challenges in extending the contract, the cooperative and Nho Que 1 Hydropower JSC have now resolved the issue, allowing for the resumption of this popular tourist activity. On Tuesday, the

Vietnam Will Submit “Glorious Ashes” to 2024 Oscars

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The film Tro Tan Ruc Ro (Glorious Ashes) has been selected to represent Vietnamese cinema in the preliminary round of the 2024 Oscars category for international film. The invitation was extended by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences based in the US. If the film qualifies for the official competition round, it will be competing in the Best Non-English Film category. This film marks the return of director Bui Thac Chuyen after a 10-year absence since his last film, Loi Nguyen Huyet Ngai (The Curse of the Blood Wormwood). Phuong Anh Dao, playing Nhan, in a scene of “Glorious Ashes”. Glorious Ashes is an adaptation of two short stories by novelist Nguyen Ngoc Tu: Tro Tan Ruc Ro and Cui Muc Troi Ve (Rotten Firewood Returns). The film tells the story of the devastated people of Thom Rom hamlet, a poignant fishing village in Ca Mau province. Glorious Ashes revolves around the unusual love lives of three women, presenting a contrast between their tumultuou

Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 Crowned in Hanoi

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The newly crowned Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 is a 25-year-old model and entrepreneur from Hanoi. She stands at a height of 1.72m and has perfect measurements of 86, 60, and 93cm. The Hanoian girl crowned the beauty contest of Miss Universe Vietnam 2023. Photo: missosology.org The newly crowned Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 gave an excellent answer during the behavioral rounds, expressing her thoughts in both English and Vietnamese. She emphasized the importance of learning, respecting differences, and honoring them. She believes that when we know how to respect differences, love, and share, the world will be a much better place. Miss Universe Vietnam 2023 will represent her country with the national flag at the upcoming The 72ND Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador. The pageant will take place at the Adolfo Pineda National Gymnasium on Saturday, November 18, 2023. The reigning Miss Universe 2022, R’Bonney Gabriel, will crown her successor at the end of the Grand Fi

Creating Innovative Solutions for Music Festival Branding

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Several major  music festivals  are to be held in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in the last three months of 2023, to build cultural brands and lure domestic and international tourists.  The golden girls of the Korean BlackPink Band successfully held a two-night performance in Hanoi last month. Photo: Some Where In Hanoi Organizing annual music events and contributing to the growth of the cultural industry requires substantial and innovative efforts. Building Cultural Brands There are numerous cultural events and music festivals held in major cities worldwide each year, serving as a gathering place and cultivating the reputation of these cities. Hanoi is no exception to this global trend. In line with this, we are excited to announce the lineup for the HAY Glamping Music Festival 2023. Taking place in Hanoi on September 29 and 30, this festival promises to provide an exceptional experience for music lovers and festival-goers alike. The festival will showcase the talents

Hue City Blind Students Receive Support from French Childhood Hope Association

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On September 27, the People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue province issued Decision No. 2251/QD-UBND to receive non-project aid from the Childhood Hope Association (France) to support blind students in difficult circumstances living at the Center for Education and Career Guidance for Blind Children in Thua Thien Hue province with a total aid of VND 114,777,000, equivalent to 4,500 EUR. Giving gifts to the blind on the occasion of Tet 2022. Specifically, the French Association will provide financial support for some school supplies and pay salaries for 01 kitchen staff and 01 security guard for the Center. The aid also aims to help blind students living at the Center for Education and Career Guidance for Blind Children (Address: 180/1 Phan Boi Chau, Truong An Ward, Hue City) to have better conditions for learning, practicing, and developing talents. The People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue Province assigned the Blind Association of Thua Thien Hue Province to receive and o

GSM Unveils Electric Scooter Ride-Hailing in Ho Chi Minh City

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Starting from September 29th, 2023, residents of Ho Chi Minh City can now easily access and book the electric scooter ride-hailing service offered by Green SM Bike through their official mobile application. With fares starting at VN13,800 for the initial 2 kilometers (equivalent to VND6,900 per kilometer), and VND4,800 per kilometer from the third kilometer onward, this service provides a convenient and cost-effective transportation solution. The VinFast Feliz S model has been chosen as the official electric scooter for the Green SM Bike fleet. This model is renowned for its Cyan Blue paint, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. Furthermore, the VinFast Feliz S is highly regarded by both drivers and passengers for its exceptional engine power, seamless performance, and plush, comfortable seating. At Green SM Bike, we are dedicated to upholding the core values of Echoing Green SM. Our top priority is ensuring that our passengers have an exceptional service experience. To achie

The Battle of Old vs New: The Media Taking on Artificial Intelligence

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Media Companies Turned Against AI Initially, the emergence of AI technology that could produce long-form pieces of data, essays, and sophisticated answers to complex questions was seen as a significant technological advancement. However, it became apparent to writers and those in the media that much of this technology poses a threat to the future of human-written research, industry, and innovation. As a result, there is now a growing call for change. Major media companies are leading the charge against the rise of AI companies and their potential global dominance by implementing safeguards and measures. How AI is Impacting Different Industries: From Gambling to Healthcare While the media industry is currently experiencing the full impact of AI, it should be noted that the implementation of AI in other industries, such as healthcare and gambling, has been happening for some time. However, the stakes are much higher in the media industry, as jobs, livelihoods, and the essence of

Discover the Deliciousness of Banh Duc: A Timeless Vietnamese Snack

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In the scenic land of S-shape, with Hanoi as its centerpiece, a local delicacy known as Banh Duc, or rice cake, has long held a cherished status as a beloved countryside snack. A Traditional Snack from the Countryside of Hanoi  Banh Duc is a countryside snack favored by many people. Photo: Ngoc Ha In the past, mothers and grandmothers would often bring home slices of banh duc from the market as a special treat for their children. However, banh duc has now evolved to become a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. Professionally Crafted Rustic Rice and Peanut Cake Our rustic cake, made with ordinary white rice and premium peanuts, is meticulously crafted to satisfy even the most discerning diners. According to some banh duc shop owners, the primary determinant of quality is the selection of top-grade rice. Prior to cooking, the rice is carefully rubbed and thoroughly washed to eliminate any impurities. The rice undergoes a meticulous preparation p

HCM City Launches French-Vietnamese Fashion and Design Festivities

The cultural activities of the 2023 Season 2 programme at the French Institute in HCM City were recently shared at a press conference on September 20 at the French Consul General’s Residence. This event is part of a series of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between France and Vietnam. Numerous fashion and design activities are planned for Season 2, with the theme “Fashion and Design”. These activities include fashion and design seminars, high-fashion nights, fashion film festivals, and the Fashion in Paris competition. Prominent figures in the fields of fashion and perfumery from France, the French Fashion Institute, and the French Federation of Fashion and Haute Couture have been invited to Vietnam to participate in seminars on various topics such as high fashion, sustainable fashion, environmentally-friendly design, and perfumery. The goal of this event series is to target the young audien

Decline in Demand for Mooncakes Despite Ample Variety

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With only one day remaining before the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 29th, mooncake sales in the market are still quite low. In previous years, demand for mooncakes typically increased during this time as people purchased them for personal consumption and as gifts for loved ones. Tran Khanh Duong, a mooncake vendor in Hanoi’s Hai Ba Trung district, stated that most shops open their counters at least a month before Full Moon Day, but sales have been slow. He attributed this to the lingering effects of Covid-19, which has resulted in fewer big orders from companies and people being hesitant to spend. Additionally, market purchases have not yet rebounded as expected. On average, customers are only buying 1-2 boxes of traditional mooncakes as gifts for themselves or their loved ones. Hotels introduce new mooncake collections. Photo: Hoai Nam/The Hanoi Times Some individuals prefer homemade mooncakes over mass-produced ones due to their lower cost and superior taste. Ho

Plans Announced for Inaugural Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival in 2024

An opening ceremony will be held on April 6 at Saigon Opera House, followed by an award giving and closing ceremony at Lam Son park in District 1. The festival will take place on Nguyen Hue pedestrian street and will feature a range of activities over the course of eight days. The highlight of the event will be an exhibition on the film industry, workshops on the Vietnamese and global film industries, and short training courses. This festival provides a valuable opportunity for Vietnamese filmmakers to connect and collaborate with international colleagues. Movie enthusiasts will also have the chance to enjoy the best and latest films, and have the opportunity to meet their favorite celebrities. Additionally, Cine show, a series of music and fashion shows, will offer unique experiences and celebrate the Vietnamese and global film industries. Visitors will also be introduced to the outstanding achievements of the fashion industry in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam. The post Plans

Hanoi Hit With Severe Traffic Congestion Due to Heavy Rainfall

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The torrential rain falls during rush hours, causing traffic to grind to a halt. The photo has been snapped on To Huu Street. The post Hanoi Hit With Severe Traffic Congestion Due to Heavy Rainfall appeared first on Vietexplorer.com .

Vietnam’s Northern Region Experiences Unusual Heavy Rains (September 29)

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According to the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting, the weather forecast during the Mid-Autumn Festival (September 29) in the North includes scattered showers and thunderstorms with locally moderate and heavy rain. In other areas, there will be scattered showers and thunderstorms with heavy rain, especially in the South Central region, Central Highlands, and Southern regions. Thunderstorms may bring tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong winds. The weather forecast in different regions Northwest region: The Northwest will be cloudy with moderate to heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms. Thunderstorms may bring tornadoes, lightning, and strong winds. The lowest temperature will range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius, with some areas below 21 degrees. The highest temperature will range from 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, with temperatures over 30 degrees in some places. East Northern region: The East Northern region will experience cloudy weather with moderate to heavy

Kho Mu Young Rice Festival Celebrated in Lai Chau Province

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The event is held during the eighth month of the lunar calendar. Locals select plump rice ears as part of the ritual in order to worship the rice’s soul to express respect towards the God of agriculture. This is an occasion in which to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. An indispensable part of the festival is to choose rice and to make green rice flakes. Locals harvest rice after performing the ritual in which they worship the rice’s soul. The festival helps to strengthen solidarity among the community as a whole. Making green rice is part of the festival. A food tray represents the Kho Mu ethnic culture and is an integral part of the important cultural occasion. The tray is meant to symbolize both happiness and wealth. Locals enjoy playing tug of war during the festival. A food tray represents the Kho Mu ethnic culture and is an integral part of the important cultural occasion. Locals enjoy playing tug of war during the festival. The post Kho

Ritual of Blessing Rain for Ede People in Buon Ma Thuot City

Every morning, the Ky hamlet community house is filled with people gathering for the rain worship ceremony. Young men carefully arrange a set of gongs while the women diligently prepare the offerings. The village center is adorned with a two-storey Pưk hut, specifically built for the rain ritual. The upper storey is dedicated to the god and goddess, while the lower storey serves as a granary, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. In front of the hut, offerings to the evil god, who brings destruction to the fields through birds and beasts, are placed. These offerings consist of liquor, chicken, and small wooden statues of elephants, tigers, and hedgehogs. As the gongs fill the air with their enchanting sounds, the shaman takes his place in front of the Puk hut to begin the ritual. He fervently prays to the gods of the sky, earth, and rain, beseeching them to bless the fields with abundant water for the crops to flourish. Water is a vital element for the rice to grow healthily,

Vietnam Represented at Asian Cultural Festival in Romania

The festival aims to promote friendship and solidarity among Asian countries, as well as between Romania and the participating countries. It provides an opportunity for Romanian people to enhance their understanding of the rich and diverse cultures of Asian countries. The Vietnamese booth attracted numerous visitors, particularly young people, with its display of Nón lá (conical hats) and photographs and paintings showcasing the landscape and culture of Vietnam. Visitors also had the chance to witness Áo Dài (traditional long dress) shows and dances, offering them an insight into Vietnamese women’s traditional attire and its cultural significance. Throughout the festival, the Vietnamese Embassy showcased a variety of traditional dishes such as Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguettes) and Nem (spring rolls), as well as key Vietnamese agricultural products like tea and coffee that are exported. The Vietnamese booth, along with booths from China, Bangladesh, Iran, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakista

Vietnam Seeks Strengthened Research Collaboration with America

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During the September meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State Bill Russo in Washington D.C. as part of his working visit to the U.S., Lai Xuan Mon, a member of the Party Central Committee and standing deputy head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Information and Education, emphasized Vietnam’s desire to expand research cooperation and exchange experiences with U.S. policy-making and management agencies. Standing Deputy Head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Information and Education Lai Xuan Mon and US Assistant Secretary of State Bill Russo with delegates at the meeting. He also highlighted Vietnam’s desire to further expand partnership with U.S. policy planning and management agencies in the fields of culture, education, external relations information, as well as the application of science and technology, innovation, and other areas within the scope of the Central Propaganda Department’s functions and tasks. The representative of the