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Gates of Olympus: A Slot Like No Other

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If you are passionate about online gambling, you know exactly how many games there are for an average player to try out. You are far too familiar with the abundance of classic games like poker, blackjack, baccarat, and roulette, as well as the staggering diversity of internet slot machines. Speaking of slots, they are by far the most played type of game out there which makes a lot of sense considering how much easier they are than the rest as well as how quickly you can go through the rounds. Because of this, they are always the ones that are being changed, expanded, and modernized for a larger audience.

Whenever you open a web-based casino you can see a dozen slots at the home page ready to be played. They would not be there if they were not the popular choice of most gamblers. Slots are also the favorite for newcomers and the perfect gateway game that introduces them to the overall world of casinos. Due to all of these reasons, the modern online casino slot is synonymous with gambling. Therefore, games like Gates of Olympus enjoy a lot of fame and are played by millions of players. In the remained of this article, we go in-depth and reveal why it is such a popular choice.

A Popular and Familiar Theme

Contemporary slots utilize various themes in order to stand out among the crowd. There are the usual graphics elements and design choices like fruits, letters, and numbers, but they are far too outdated. A modern player requires more. They want flashy gameplay and interesting visuals to look at while a different and engaging audio plays in the background. In short, they expect a video game experience as much as a gambling game that can satisfy their needs. With Gates of Olympus, as the name suggests, it is all about Greek mythology.

Greek mythos is a collection of stories based on the pantheon of Old Greek gods. Many of them are famous in popular media. Their design, the feats that are attributed to them, as well as the intricate controversies and complex relationships among them continue to feed the imagination of storytellers. Characters like Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon, three brothers who are some of the strongest gods in the whole legendarium are the usual main protagonists and/or antagonists, with the remaining gods and demigods around them.

In this game, it is Zeus who accompanies you through your gambling journey. The God of Sky and Thunder and the chief among his people is to the side of the spinning reels reacting and advising the player in his easily recognizable white robes, golden jewelry, white beard, and all. It is a great design that has stood the test of time and fits perfectly well with an engaging and dynamic game like a modern slot.

About the Game

Initially, Gates of Olympus looks like most other popular slot games. The reels are made up of shiny gems, crystals, and artifacts. There are 6 reels, each with 5 rows. The company behind the game is Pragmatic Play, a big name in the industry. It is the fan-favorite model of all ways pays gameplay where there are plenty of potential combinations to win. A lot of action takes place throughout each spin and you can never expect how many connections there will be. Just as you win one, another one rolls and you get a few more.

A great example of the game’s amazing features includes the magical orbs that Zeus can throw. This can happen on any spin and is therefore an RNG feature that can happen at any time. These boosts can be as high as 500x of what you score on the spin, something that can literally be a life-changing win. There are also bonus rounds with free spins constantly meaning you will not have to deposit nearly as much money as with some other slots. It is a volatile slot, however, as both the players and the experts agree, with the win probability of 1 in 697.350. Still, it is among the highest on the market.

The maximal potential win in Gates of Olympus is 5,000x of your bet, while the average return to player (RTP) rating is 96.5%. This is better than average across all popular slot machines right now. In order to win, you have to score at least 8 of the same symbol anywhere on the screen. Per spin, you can bet anywhere from 0.2 to 125 per spin. Regarding the currencies, you can bet with US Dollars, Euros, or British Pound Sterling. The winnings and the payout are shown as cash values and you can easily see your current stake.

Payout Details

In total, 10 different payouts can happen. The lowest includes blue gemstones which pay 0.25x for 8-9, 0.75x for 10-11, and 2x for 12+. Green gemstones are next with 0.4x, 0.9x, and 4x for the same values. Yellow gemstones are 0.5x, 1x, and 5x. Purple gemstones are 0.8x, 1.2x, and 8x. The most valuable, and final, gemstone is red with the values of 1x, 1.5x, and 10x.

Then there are the artifacts and jewelry. The goblet will give you 1.5x, 2x, and 12x. The ring is 2x, 5x, and 15x. With the sand timer, the players score 2.5x, 10x, and 25x. Finally, with the crown, you get 10x, 25x, and 50x. The maximum you can win includes 4+ Zeus Scatter together with a Free Spin feature trigger. All in all, this can lead to a 100x bet. The scatter triggers when you score 4-6 scatter symbols on the reels. The payouts are 3x, 5x, or 100x, after which you play 15 free spins.

The aforementioned Zeus multiplier, i.e. the orbs that can fly in thanks to the God at your side, ranges from 2x to 500x. When active, they are applied to the total win from the tumbling reels. Just an example, if the payout is $10, and you get two multipliers for 4x and 7x, the payout is boosted by 11x resulting in you winning $110. All in all, there are many different ways to win in this game and a lot of bonus multipliers and free spins. What else does a slot enthusiast need? It is easy to see why Gates of Olympus is among the favorites, and has been for a while.

Why this US Consulting Firm Expresses Confidence in Vietnam’s Economic Prospects?

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Southeast Asian economies have shown remarkable resilience, achieving solid economic growth in the second quarter of 2024, with Vietnam and the Philippines standing out as the region’s top performers.

Vietnam’s economy grew by 6.9%, while the Philippines followed closely with a 6.3% expansion, according to a recent report from McKinsey & Company, a global strategy and management consulting firm based in the US.

McKinsey’s report highlighted Vietnam’s economic acceleration in the second quarter, as GDP growth rose to 6.9% from 5.6% in the previous quarter. The country’s industrial and service sectors played key roles in driving this growth.

Private consumption also strengthened and is expected to expand further throughout 2024. The export sector maintained its upward momentum, benefiting from increased global demand, especially in key industries such as smartphones, electronics, and textiles.

The report underscored the significant growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the quarter, reinforcing Vietnam’s reputation as an attractive investment destination. However, it also pointed out that inflation continued to climb, driven by wage increases, which has added pressure on the central bank’s monetary policy.

FDI was one of the major highlights of Vietnam’s economic performance, with disbursed FDI reaching $6.2 billion in the second quarter, up from $4.6 billion in the first quarter. Total FDI registered in the first half of 2024 amounted to $15.2 billion, marking a 13.1% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

The robust growth is expected to continue supporting Vietnam’s economy in the near future, further solidifying the country’s appeal as a key investment hub for foreign businesses seeking to diversify their global supply chains, the report concluded.

You Are Advised to Stay Indoors This Evening as Typhoon Yagi Moves Inland

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Hanoians are being urged to avoid going out on the evening of September 7 as Typhoon Yagi intensifies, bringing wind speeds of 50-60 km/h (level 6-7), with gusts reaching 75-100 km/h (level 9-10). The dangerous conditions pose significant risks.

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, as of 1 p.m. today, Typhoon Yagi was positioned at 20.8 degrees North latitude and 107.1 degrees East longitude, off the coast between Quang Ninh and Hai Phong. The storm’s center is producing winds of 118-149 km/h (level 12-13), with gusts up to 184 km/h (level 16). It is moving west-northwest at a speed of 15-20 km/h.

By 1 a.m. on September 8, Yagi is expected to reach the mainland in the Northeast region, with winds decreasing to level 8 (63-75 km/h) and gusts up to level 10. The storm will weaken as it moves further inland and eventually dissipate into a low-pressure system.

Local authorities in areas affected by the storm, particularly Hanoi, have urged residents to stay indoors and seek safe shelter. The strong winds could topple trees and create hazardous conditions. Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, and Lang Son are also on alert for possible landslides due to heavy rainfall.

The National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control reported that by 1 p.m., the storm had caused damage in Quang Ninh and Hai Phong, sinking five cement ships and a small wooden boat. Additionally, 146 trees were uprooted, two power poles and a transformer station were damaged, and widespread power outages affected the districts of Cam Pha and Van Don (Quang Ninh).

Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor weather updates and stay indoors until conditions improve.

Hundreds of Flights Canceled or Delayed as Storm Yagi Hits Northern Vietnam

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Airlines in Vietnam have canceled or delayed hundreds of flights over the weekend as Storm Yagi approaches the northern and north-central regions.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has ordered the temporary closure of four major airports—Noi Bai (Hanoi), Cat Bi (Haiphong), Van Don (Quang Ninh), and Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa)—during specific time frames on September 7 to ensure safety amid the storm.

Noi Bai International Airport will suspend operations from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on September 7. Van Don will be closed from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cat Bi from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tho Xuan from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

In addition, rain and thunderstorms are expected to disrupt flights at Vinh, Dien Bien, and Dong Hoi airports.

Hundreds of flights have already been affected. Vietnam Airlines canceled or delayed more than 110 flights, Vietjet Air nearly 90, and Bamboo Airways 14.

Passengers flying on September 7 and 8 are advised to stay updated through the airlines’ websites or notifications sent directly to them.

CAAV estimates that Storm Yagi could impact around 240 domestic and 70 international flights over the next few days.

Typhoon Yagi Approaches Northern Vietnam with Strong Winds and Heavy Rain

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Typhoon Yagi is currently moving towards the sea area between Quảng Ninh and Thái Bình, with wind speeds of up to 149kph near its center, as reported by the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF).

As of 10 a.m. today, Typhoon Yagi, also known as Typhoon Number 3, was positioned at approximately 20.6°N, 107.6°E, over the Quảng Ninh-Thái Bình sea area. The maximum wind speeds near the storm’s center range from 134-149 km/h (level 13), with gusts reaching up to level 16.

The storm is projected to move west-northwest at 15-20kph and is expected to make landfall in northern Vietnam. Winds upon landfall are forecast to be at level 8, with gusts reaching level 10. The northern Gulf of Tonkin, as well as coastal and inland areas of Quảng Ninh, Hải Phòng, and Thái Bình, face a level 4 disaster risk, while the southern Gulf of Tonkin and regions of Nam Định, Ninh Bình, and Thanh Hóa face a level 3 risk.

By Sunday at 10 a.m., the storm is expected to weaken as it continues west-northwest at 15-20kph, with winds decreasing to level 6. The risk of natural disasters in Quảng Ninh, Hải Phòng, Thái Bình, Nam Định, Ninh Bình, and Thanh Hóa will remain at level 3.

The Gulf of Tonkin, including the Bạch Long Vỹ and Cô Tô islands, will experience winds of level 8-10, with winds near the storm’s center reaching levels 11-13 and gusts up to level 16. Waves in these areas will range from 3-5 meters, while those near the storm’s center could reach 6-8 meters. Coastal areas from Quảng Ninh to Thanh Hóa may see waves of 2-4 meters, with those near the storm’s center potentially reaching 3-5 meters.

Meteorologists have also issued warnings of storm surges in coastal areas from Thanh Hóa to Quảng Ninh, with water levels potentially rising by 0.5 meters in Thanh Hóa and up to 2 meters in Quảng Ninh on Saturday afternoon and evening.

Fishing boat anchorage areas, aquaculture farms, and coastal dykes are expected to face strong winds, high waves, and storm surges. Low-lying coastal regions, particularly near river mouths, should prepare for potential flooding due to storm surges and large waves.

From Saturday afternoon until Monday morning, the northern region and Thanh Hóa are forecast to experience heavy rain, with rainfall totals between 100-300mm and some areas exceeding 450mm. The most intense rain will occur in the northeastern region on Saturday afternoon and evening, and in the northwestern region from Saturday evening through Sunday night.

Widespread flooding is expected in low-lying areas, with flash floods in smaller rivers and streams, and landslides on mountainous slopes due to the heavy rainfall.

Due to the storm’s extensive reach, areas in northwestern Vietnam and from Nghệ An to Thừa Thiên – Huế should brace for thunderstorms, tornadoes, and strong gusts.

Although Hà Nội will not be directly hit by the storm, the city is likely to experience strong winds of levels 6-7, with gusts reaching levels 9-10, on Saturday afternoon and evening. These winds could cause damage to trees, roofs, and signboards, and residents are advised to stay indoors unless necessary.

Hà Nội is also expected to see heavy rain, with rainfall amounts of 150-350mm, leading to the potential for widespread flooding. Residents should take precautions to prevent and respond to potential floods.

Experts warn that stormy weather can cause significant damage to both people and property, particularly vehicles. People are urged to avoid going out during heavy rain and strong winds.

In areas directly affected by the storm, residents are advised to secure their homes, reinforce roofs, move furniture to higher ground in low-lying areas, and lower outdoor advertising signs. Boats should be anchored in safe locations, and aquaculture cages secured. It’s also recommended to fully charge phones and prepare enough food and water for two days, as power and water services may be disrupted.

Families living in high-rise buildings should tape their windows to prevent glass from shattering and bring heavy items like potted plants indoors to protect against strong winds. Additionally, closing windows tightly can help prevent water from damaging floors and furniture.

Starlink satellite internet services by SpaceX will be offered in Vietnam very soon. Here’s Why

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U.S.-based tech giant SpaceX is poised to invest in and offer its Starlink satellite internet services in Vietnam, according to a senior company executive, as the Southeast Asian nation strives to accelerate its digital economy.

Tim Hughes, Senior Vice President of Global Business and Government Affairs at SpaceX, stated during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi that the company’s services would benefit sectors such as education, training, and disaster prevention.

Hughes commended Vietnam’s favorable business environment and suggested the country prepare the necessary infrastructure to ensure the effectiveness of the project, aiming to extend internet access to 100% of the population.

PM Chinh welcomed SpaceX’s investment intentions, emphasizing Vietnam’s goal of building a digital government, economy, and society. He assured that Vietnam has the required infrastructure and supportive policies to facilitate efficient operations for foreign companies like SpaceX.

The prime minister also urged SpaceX to collaborate with relevant Vietnamese ministries to ensure the project complies with local laws and guarantees network security. He encouraged additional partnerships in areas where both SpaceX and Vietnam have potential, including science, technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things.

Additionally, Chinh highlighted the importance of technology transfer, workforce development, and expanding partnerships with Vietnamese enterprises to enhance their participation in global value chains.

Earlier, during a meeting with Vietnamese Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung, Hughes discussed global progress in satellite internet services and SpaceX’s business prospects in Vietnam. Hughes noted that SpaceX has invested over $11 billion in its satellite network, comprising more than 6,500 satellites, and has been providing Starlink services since October 2020.

Currently, the company serves nearly three million clients across over 100 countries, including ASEAN nations such as Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Hughes expressed interest in bringing broadband services to underserved areas in Vietnam, similar to those provided in the U.S. and Canada.

Minister Hung praised SpaceX’s proposals and outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to expand internet access to remote and underprivileged areas.

Hanoi becomes Asia’s top city break destination as Bangkok and Singapore has been surpassed

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This is the third time Hanoi has earned the title, outshining competitors such as Bangkok, Singapore, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Kyoto, as announced by the organizing committee during the awards ceremony in the Philippines on Tuesday.

In addition to this achievement, Hanoi was also named “Asia’s Leading City Destination.”

Recently, 4,500 tourists from Sun Pharmaceuticals, a leading Indian company owned by Dilip Shanghvi, the fifth richest person in India, visited Hanoi and explored notable landmarks such as the Hoa Lo Prison Relic and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.

Several other Vietnamese locations were honored at the event as well. Ho Chi Minh City was recognized as “Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination,” while Hoi An received the title of “Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination.”

The Tam Chuc Complex in Ha Nam Province, located 60 kilometers south of Hanoi, was awarded “Asia’s Leading Cultural Tourist Attraction.” Ha Nam was also named “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination.”

Cuc Phuong National Park, 120 kilometers south of Hanoi, was named “Asia’s Leading National Park” for the sixth year in a row.

The northern mountainous province of Ha Giang, near the Chinese border, was recognized as “Asia’s Leading Regional Cultural Destination,” and its neighboring province, Moc Chau, approximately 200 kilometers west of Hanoi, was voted “Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination.”

The World Travel Awards, founded in 1993, celebrate excellence in the travel and tourism industry and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel industry.” These prestigious awards are determined by votes from both industry professionals and the public.

Typhoon Yagi Remains a Super Typhoon, Approaching Gulf of Tonkin

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Starting the afternoon of September 6, strong winds of level 6-7 will affect the eastern Gulf of Tonkin, including the island district of Bach Long Vi. By tonight, winds in the entire Gulf of Tonkin, including the islands of Bach Long Vi, Co To, Cat Ba, and Cat Hai, will increase to levels 8-11. Areas near the storm’s center could experience winds as high as levels 12-14, with gusts up to level 17. The sea will become extremely rough and dangerous.

On land, the most critical period for strong winds is expected from tonight until tomorrow night. Coastal areas from Quang Ninh to Thanh Hoa are likely to experience winds of level 6-9, with areas near the storm center facing winds at levels 10-12, gusting up to 14. Inland areas, including Hanoi, may experience winds of level 6-8, with gusts reaching level 9-11.

Visitors in affected areas, especially around the Gulf of Tonkin and coastal regions like Cat Ba and Co To, should take immediate precautions. Avoid coastal activities, and stay updated on local weather warnings. Strong winds and rough seas make travel and outdoor activities highly dangerous during the storm’s passage.

Processed Food Documentary : Mekong Delta Tour | Inside a Fruit Processing Factory

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The food industry in Vietnam has grown explosively given the entry of the country into the global arena as a leading food-exporting country. One of the fields in which Vietnam can boast excellence is the production of dried fruit: diverse, tropical fruits are processed to perfection here.

In this article, we travel to a food processing factory in the Mekong Delta-a region of the country where fruits are plentiful and show how it is trying to position itself in pole position in the Vietnamese food manufacturing sector.

Processed Food of Growing Vietnam

Food in Vietnam is moving at an exponential rate, with the nation exporting over 3 billion dollars of processed foods annually.

In this video, this documentary exposes behinds-the-scenes of a Mekong Delta-based factory specialized into producing quality dried fruits including pineapple, dragon fruit, mango, and banana.

>> Related article : The Best of ‘Made in Vietnam’ products for Sourcing

The Mekong Delta is one of the best regions to plant food in Vietnam. Rich earth and fine weather – all this is so favorable for fruit farming here all year round. This huge amount of raw material resources supports food production in Vietnam, and a location close to the ports makes exportation easy.

Why Dried Fruits Instead of Fresh Fruits for Export?

Concerning food production in Vietnam, dried fruits have a big plus over fresh fruits. Here is why:

1. Extended Shelf Life

Dried fruits last longer than fresh fruits, which makes them great for sending over long distances.

They do not need to be kept cold, so you save money on shipping, especially for businesses that export from Vietnam to countries like the US or Europe.

2. Lighter and More Compact

Due to this, dried fruits are lighter and much smaller compared to fresh fruits, hence presenting less hassle and expense in moving them from one place to another. For this reason, most food suppliers in Vietnam have focused on dried products for the world market.

3. Nutrient Retention

Dry fruits retain most of their healthy nutrients, which makes them a popular choice for health-conscious people. The factory in the Mekong Delta treats the fruits when they are at their freshest to ensure quality and nutrient-rich products.

Getting Dried Fruits from Southern Vietnam

The Mekong Delta, located in the south of Vietnam, is an important point in the food production cycle of the entire country, but it is an ideal site to extract quality dried fruits due to the various natural advantages it has. This region grows all fruits like dragon fruits, pineapple, and jackfruits throughout the year, helping lower reliance on imported raw materials.

The proximity of farms and processing facilities in the Mekong Delta reduces transportation costs for food processing companies in Vietnam. Combined with easy access to international ports, this makes the region a major hub for food production and export.

Factory Tour from a Sourcing Agency

Visiting this factory, one can immediately sense that it deals in the latest machinery and with a high degree of quality control. Unlike many other food factories in Vietnam, this facility has custom-engineered processing equipment designed to meet the specific requirements of international clients.

Visiting a factory for inspection and quality control from a sourcing agency

Supplement Manufacturing Capability

The factory now produces dried fruits with supplements. They use their ODM services to manufacture customized supplements based on what their clients will require. This creates new opportunities for buyers looking for health and wellness products, including candies or supplements made from natural fruits.

Certifications and Quality Checks

One of the most important parts of receiving food from factories in Vietnam involves paying great attention to international standards regarding food safety. ISO 22000:2018 and HACCP certification at this factory prove its comprehensive goal to keep high standards of quality.

These two certificates will make international buyers be quite confident that the products are manufactured in a safe, clean, and controlled environment.

How to Source Food from Vietnamese Factories

For buyers in search of high-quality products, finding the right food processing companies in Vietnam is critical. Here are a few tips:

Find the location of food factories: Knowing where food processing plants are located in Vietnam will make it easier for your logistics. The Mekong Delta, for example, is a good place since most crops are grown there and it’s closer to the export centers.
Check Certifications: Assure the factory follows international rules such as ISO and HACCP regarding food safety.
Contact Factories Directly: Many of these factories have flexible MOQs and are offering ODM/OEM services to enable them to have tailored products to suit the needs of their market.

The Benefits of Exporting from Vietnam

Exporting food from Vietnam comes with several benefits, especially when working with well-recognized Vietnamese food factories in the Mekong Delta area. The good trade deals in the country and proximity to great markets make the country relatively inexpensive for companies. Also, Vietnam follows international rules on food safety, which guarantees that the products are safe to export to both the US and Europe.

>> Related article : How do I find the best sourcing agents in Vietnam?

In conclusion, Vietnam’s food industry, particularly in the Mekong Delta, is primed for global trade. This factory exemplifies the strengths of Vietnam food suppliers, from high-quality dried fruits to innovative supplement production. With advanced technology, strong local sourcing, and international certifications, this factory is well-equipped to meet the demands of global buyers.

The New York Times expands its footprint in Vietnam

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The New York Times has been granted a license to open a bureau in Vietnam, with operations set to begin next month.

On September 5, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang handed the license to Damien Cave, the chief representative of the New York Times bureau in Vietnam.

Deputy Minister Thu Hang expressed that the New York Times will now have better conditions to conduct journalistic activities in Vietnam, providing more vivid news about the country and the region. This will help the international community gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam and its people.

She also believes that the New York Times office will produce in-depth articles on Vietnam-US relations, contributing to the strengthening of bilateral ties. This is particularly significant as the two countries will celebrate the first anniversary of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the 30th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025.

Damien Cave noted that the decision to open an office in Vietnam reflects the growing interest of the American and global press in the country. He mentioned that the New York Times had the honor of interviewing President Ho Chi Minh on July 6, 1946.

Cave added that Vietnam is gaining a higher position and role on the international stage, and the Vietnam-US relationship has seen significant development. The New York Times aims to accurately and objectively report on Vietnam’s transformations and the evolving Vietnam-US relationship.

The New York Times, established in 1851, is one of the most prestigious newspapers in the US and globally, having won multiple Pulitzer Prizes. The new office is expected to open in October.

Ha Nam Becomes ‘Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination’

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At the 2024 World Travel Awards ceremony for Asia and Oceania held on the evening of September 3 in the Philippines, Ha Nam was honored for the first time as “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2024,” according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda, a destination visited by many tourists recently. Photo: Vuong Loc

Ha Nam surpasses several other well-known nominees such as Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei), Bohol (Philippines), Flores (Indonesia), Koh Kood (Thailand), Melaka (Malaysia), Morioka (Japan), Okinawa (Japan), Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Sumba Island (Indonesia), and Taipei (Taiwan, China) to win the title of “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination.”

Located at the southern gateway to Hanoi, about 65 km from the capital, Ha Nam is famous for its spiritual tourism sites such as the Tam Chuc Scenic Complex, Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda, Ba Danh Pagoda, Long Doi Son Pagoda, and So Kien Basilica.

In addition to these, Ha Nam boasts many other historical sites, craft villages, and scenic spots like Ba Kien’s House – the inspiration for Vu Dai Village, Kem Trong Tourist Area, Truc Temple – Ngu Dong Son Tourist Area, Tran Thuong Temple, Vu Dai Village’s braised fish, Doi Tam Drum Village, and Nha Xa Silk Village.

Ha Nam’s cuisine also leaves a strong impression on visitors, offering specialties such as Phu Ly grilled pork rolls with rice paper, field-fish rice noodles, Vu Dai braised fish, Dam Village’s square sticky rice cakes, Kien Khe sesame rice cakes, Binh Luc crab sauce, and Dai Hoang royal bananas.

In addition to this year’s award of “Asia’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2024,” Ha Nam was also recognized last year by the World Travel Awards as the “World’s Leading Local Cultural Destination.”

In addition, Ha Giang – the northernmost province of the country – was listed for the first time in the category of “Asia’s Leading Local Cultural Tourism Destination”. Photo: Vuong Loc

@SGtiepthi

Domestic Air Travel Declines Sharply During September 2nd Holiday

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While the number of international passengers in the aviation industry saw a significant increase during the September 2nd National Day holiday, domestic passengers decreased by 16% compared to the same period last year.

Domestic flights decreased sharply on September 2nd. Photo: TIA.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) recently submitted a report to the Ministry of Transport regarding air travel during the National Day holiday.

According to the report, over the four-day holiday, the total number of air passengers reached more than 763,000, which is 98% of the figure for the same period in 2023. International passenger transport exceeded 406,500 passengers (+15% compared to the same period), while domestic passenger transport reached over 356,500 passengers (-16%).

Freight transport during this period was about 13,000 tons (+11%), with international freight exceeding 10,900 tons (+10%) and domestic freight transport surpassing 2,100 tons (+14%).

The total volume of passengers and goods passing through Vietnamese airports amounted to 7,000 takeoffs and landings (-3%), more than 1.1 million passengers (-7%), and over 15,000 tons of goods (+11%).

At Tan Son Nhat Airport, more than 2,500 takeoffs and landings were recorded, with approximately 407,000 passengers and around 5,300 tons of goods. Compared to the same period last year, these figures represent a 9% decrease in takeoffs and landings, a 7% decline in passengers, but a 3% increase in freight.

In Hanoi, Noi Bai Airport saw nearly 2,000 takeoffs and landings, equivalent to around 314,000 passengers and over 8,700 tons of goods, marking an 8% drop in takeoffs and landings, a 1% decrease in passengers, but a 17% rise in freight compared to the same period in 2023. During this time, Da Nang Airport experienced over 900 takeoffs and landings, with more than 111,000 passengers and over 333 tons of freight. This represents a 3% decrease in takeoffs and landings, a 13% drop in passengers, but an 80% increase in freight compared to 2023. Additionally, during the National Day holiday, airlines operated more than 2,700 flights (averaging nearly 700 flights per day ).

The on-time performance rate for flights was only 73.6%, impacted by the airlines’ operational policies and chain delays that caused late arrivals of aircraft. Furthermore, heavy rains persisted for several hours in southern airports, affecting airport operations and airline schedules, leading to flight delays.

On August 30, the on-time performance rate for airlines hit the lowest level, at just 63.6%.

Moreover, during the holiday period, 18 flights were canceled by airlines due to changes in commercial operation plans.

@Znews

Ho Chi Minh City Wins Asia’s Leading MICE Destination for the 5th Time

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Surpassing many strong contenders, Ho Chi Minh City proudly claimed victory in three major categories at the 2024 World MICE Awards.

Ho Chi Minh City continues to win big at the 2024 World MICE Tourism Awards. Photo: Linh Huynh.

On the evening of September 4, the 2024 World MICE Awards ceremony took place in Ho Chi Minh City. At the event, the city was honored with awards in three significant categories: Asia’s Best MICE Destination, Asia’s Best Incentive Destination, and the ITE HCMC (Vietnam) Trade Show was recognized as Asia’s Best Trade Show.

This marks the fifth consecutive time Ho Chi Minh City has won the title of Asia’s Leading MICE Destination and the first time the city hosted this prestigious award ceremony.

The World MICE Awards are part of a series of awards developed from the World Travel Awards, a globally recognized and prestigious program.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa represents Ho Chi Minh City to receive this prestigious title. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism

Ms. Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, said: “The award is a testament to the city’s efforts to position Ho Chi Minh City not only as a tourism destination but also as a major hub for tourism development in Asia, focused on sustainable tourism growth aligned with cultural, social, and environmental values.”

In recent years, the city has identified MICE tourism as one of the four key areas to heavily invest in and develop. In addition to the title of Asia’s Leading MICE Destination, Ho Chi Minh City was also named Asia’s Best Incentive Destination. This award not only highlights the city’s potential and appeal but also strengthens its position on the global stage.

Notably, this is the first time the ITE HCMC Trade Show has been recognized as Asia’s Best Trade Show after 17 editions.

With the theme “Sustainable Tourism – Shaping the Future,” the ITE HCMC includes a series of events and discussions, officially taking place from September 5-7 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.

Earlier, Ho Chi Minh City had been named Asia’s Leading Business Travel Destination 2024, Asia’s Leading Festival & Event Destination 2024, and Asia’s Leading City Tourism Authority 2024.

@Znews

Which Tourist Destinations Were the Most Crowded During the National Day Holiday on September 2?

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During this year’s National Day holiday, from August 31 to September 3, Ho Chi Minh City received the largest number of visitors, reaching nearly one million. Hanoi followed with over 672,000 visitors.

The HCMC Department of Tourism reported that tourist attractions and entertainment venues saw approximately 980,000 visitors, a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 2.94 trillion, up 1.7% from 2023, with an average hotel occupancy rate of around 85%.

Thousands of people flocked to Nguyen Hue walking street, Bach Dang wharf park, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City to watch the fireworks display on the evening of September 2. Photo: Nguyen Hue.

Hanoi attracted an estimated 672,900 tourists, a 5% increase compared to 2023. Of these, nearly 59,000 were international visitors, up 35.8%, while domestic tourists increased slightly by 3.6%, with many opting for resorts and destinations in the outskirts of the city . Total tourism revenue is estimated at over VND 2.18 trillion, an 8.3% increase from 2023.

People line up to visit President Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum during the September 2nd holiday. Photo: Bao Kien.

In Khanh Hoa, it is estimated that during the four-day holiday from September 2, the province welcomed over 578,000 visitors. Tourism revenue is estimated to reach VND 756.3 billion, a 14.2% increase. According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Le Thanh, Director of the Khanh Hoa Department of Tourism, the province attracted a large number of tourists from Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces. Besides road transport, train routes such as HCMC-Nha Trang and Da Nang-Nha Trang were also popular among tourists.

In Ba Ria – Vung Tau, the total number of visitors for sightseeing and accommodation is estimated at over 565,000, an increase of 6.61% compared to 2023, with overnight stays up by 17.42%. Tourism revenue during the four-day holiday from September 2 reached VND 348,218 billion, a 16.65% increase compared to 2023. Vung Tau City alone received more than 276,000 visitors.

The province’s hotel occupancy rate ranges from 80% to 85% during the holiday. According to the local Department of Tourism, the number of tourists was slightly lower due to rainy weather during the holiday.

In Quang Ninh, the total number of tourists during the four-day holiday reached 455,000, 119% of the same period in 2023 (382,000 visitors during the 2023 National Day holiday). The peak days for visitors were August 31 to September 2. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 1,033 trillion, 131% of the same period in 2023. The total number of overnight stays reached 174,200, an increase of 116% compared to 2023 (150,700 in 2023), accounting for 37% of total visitors to Quang Ninh. From August 31 to September 2, occupancy rates at 4-5 star hotels and equivalent accommodations reached 80-90%, while other types of accommodation ponderously 45-55%. On August 31 and September 1, several areas like Co To, Mong Cai, Quan Lan, Minh Chau, and Ha Long City saw occupancy rates of 80-90%.

According to Mr. Pham Nguyen Hong, Director of the Thanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the province welcomed 395,700 visitors during the National Day holiday, a 20.4% increase compared to 2023. Overnight stays totaled 140,500, and tourism revenue reached VND 870.5 billion, a 31.3% increase compared to the previous year.

Hotel occupancy across the province ranges from 35% to 37%. In Pu Luong, hotel occupancy reached 100%. Leading the province in visitor numbers is Sam Son City, with 198,200 tourists.

Previously, during the April 30 – May 1 holiday, Thanh Hoa recorded the highest number of visitors nationally, with over 1.5 million, a record-breaking figure, up by more than 27% compared to the same period. The province’s total revenue revenue during the holiday exceeds VND 3.8 trillion, a nearly 33% increase compared to 2023.

Tu Thuc Cave (Nga Thien Commune, Nga Son District, Thanh Hoa) welcomed a large number of visitors to visit and experience on the occasion of September 2. Photo: Le Duong.

Binh Thuan is estimated to have welcomed 385,000 visitors, a 3.3 times increase compared to the 2023 National Day holiday, with revenue reaching around VND 510 billion. During the holiday, the peak visitor flow occurred from August 31 to September 2, and average room occupancy rates ranged from 80% to 95%, with many establishments reaching full capacity.

Most domestic tourists to Binh Thuan came from Ho Chi Minh City, Lam Dong, Dong Nai, and Binh Duong, focusing on areas like Ham Tien, Mui Ne, Tien Thanh, Tuy Phong, Ham Thuan Nam, La Gi, and Phu Quy.

Ninh Binh is estimated to have welcomed 374,000 visitors, an increase of 67.9% compared to the 2023 holiday, with international tourists reaching around 74,000, a 276.7% rise compared to 2023. Revenue is estimated at nearly VND 650 billion, up 182.6% from 2023 Room occupancy rates critically 85% to 90%, and on the nights of August 31 and September 1, occupancy reached 100%.

According to the Da Nang Department of Tourism, the total number of tourists visiting Da Nang reached nearly 308,000, a 21.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Domestic tourists totaled around 217,000, a 23.8% increase, while international tourists about 91,000 , up 15.3%. Total tourism revenue exceeded VND 1.2 trillion, a 33.8% rise compared to 2023. Da Nang’s tourism officials noted a significant increase in visitors traveling by train and self-driving vehicles, particularly from neighboring provinces such as Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Hue, Quang Nam, and Quang Ngai.

An Giang received over 210,000 tourists, comparable to the same period in 2023. Binh Dinh is estimated to have welcomed 204,044 visitors, a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. Tourism revenue is estimated at VND 555 billion, a 0.8% rise compared to 2023. Lao Cai welcomed around 196,500 visitors during the holiday, with Sa Pa town receiving approximately 122,770 visitors, a 33.2% increase from the 2023 holiday. Total tourism revenue in Lao Cai for the four-day holiday is estimated at around VND 606 billion.

In Quang Nam, the total number of visitors over four days is estimated at 193,000 (a 16% increase compared to 2023). The average room occupancy rate is between 55% and 60%, while 4-5 star hotels reached 80% to 90%.

The Kien Giang Department of Tourism reported that the province welcomed over 159,000 visitors, with an average room occupancy rate of 35%. Phu Quoc City is estimated to have welcomed 75,591 visitors, a more than 20% increase compared to 2023, with international visitors accounting for over 15,500, a more than 170% increase. Total tourism revenue is estimated at VND 347 billion.

Thousands of tourists flocked to visit and have fun in Hoi An (Quang Nam) during the National Day holiday on September 2. Photo: Ha Nam.

Tourist arrivals to Da Lat City for sightseeing and relaxation are estimated at around 100,000, an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Among them, international tourists are estimated at 7,200, a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2023, while domestic tourists are estimated at 92,800 (with about 68,200 staying overnight), an 11% increase compared to 2023.

The total number of tourists visiting Ninh Thuan during the National Day holiday is estimated at 75,000, a 15.4% increase compared to the same period last year, with revenue reaching VND 90 billion.

The total number of tourists arriving in Phu Yen reached 46,500, a 10% increase compared to the same period. Among these, the number of international tourists doubled compared to last year. Tourism revenue amounted to VND 93 billion, a 46% increase compared to the same period last year.

@Znews

Hoi An Among the World’s Most Ideal Destinations in September

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Recently, Australia’s travel website Escape published an article introducing the world’s most ideal destinations for September, including Vietnam’s ancient town of Hoi An.

According to Escape’s travel writer Simone Mitchell, the weather in Hoi An in September ranges from 24°C to 31°C, making it perfect for travel. It’s also the transitional season, so visitors may experience occasional light rain showers.

Mornings and afternoons in Hoi An are usually sunny, providing ideal conditions for exploring the ancient town and its surrounding areas.

Hoi An is colorful. Photo: Tripadvisor.

September is also not the peak tourist season in Hoi An, meaning that travelers visiting during this time can avoid the crowds typically seen during the summer months or long holidays.

The popular travel site also recommends visitors not to miss the chance to attend the Lantern Festival, which usually takes place on the 14th day of the lunar month.

In addition to Hoi An, other destinations on Escape’s list of top places to visit in September include Kyoto (Japan), Istanbul (Turkey), Bali (Indonesia), Barcelona (Spain), Vancouver (Canada), and more.

@Znews