Foreign Man Arrested After Stabbing Police Officer in Mui Ne

Advertisements

Authorities in southern Vietnam have detained a foreign man after he stabbed a police officer during a traffic dispute, leaving the officer seriously injured.

The incident occurred in Mui Ne, a popular destination known for its beaches and large number of international visitors.

Traffic Dispute Escalates Into Violence

According to initial reports from Lam Dong Provincial Police, the incident happened on the evening of March 18 on Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street.

A motorbike ridden by a foreign tourist collided with a taxi, leading to a heated argument between the parties.

As tensions escalated and public order was affected, local police officers were dispatched to the scene.

Officer Attacked While On Duty

Among them was Major Pham Nguyen Duc Lam (37), a local police officer.

When officers attempted to bring those involved back to the station for questioning, the situation suddenly turned violent.

The foreign man allegedly:

  • Pulled out a sharp knife

  • Attacked and stabbed Major Lam, causing serious injuries

  • Fled the scene on a motorbike

Suspect Captured After Chase

Police units from Mui Ne coordinated with provincial forces to pursue the suspect, eventually arresting him in Tan Minh Commune.

The man’s nationality has not yet been disclosed.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the case.

Rising Concerns Over Tourist Traffic Incidents

In recent years, Mui Ne has seen an increase in foreign tourists renting motorbikes to explore the area.

Officials note that:

  • Some riders are unfamiliar with local traffic laws

  • Several accidents have occurred, including fatal cases

The latest incident has raised further concerns about road safety and handling of disputes involving foreign visitors in tourist-heavy areas.

Vietnam Eyes Domestic Crypto Exchanges as Overseas Trading Faces Ban

Advertisements

Banks and conglomerates race for licenses as Hanoi moves to control one of the world’s busiest crypto markets

Vietnam is preparing to reshape one of the world’s most active cryptocurrency markets by launching its first licensed domestic exchanges—while simultaneously moving to restrict trading on overseas platforms used by millions of local investors.

According to a government resolution reviewed by Reuters, authorities in Hanoi plan to introduce a pilot framework for locally operated digital asset exchanges as early as this month. The initiative aims to tighten oversight of crypto trading and reduce risks linked to cross-border capital flows in a country where digital assets have surged in popularity.

Five companies have passed an initial qualification round for the pilot scheme, according to a document from the Vietnam Ministry of Finance dated March 12. The applicants include affiliates of three major private banks—Techcombank, VPBank, and LPBank—along with VIX Securities and real estate and tourism developer Sun Group. Sun Group and VPBank confirmed their applications, while other firms have not publicly commented.

The policy shift comes as Vietnam ranks among the most active crypto markets globally. Data from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis shows the country placed fourth in its Global Crypto Adoption Index last year, with transactions involving Vietnamese users exceeding $200 billion between mid-2024 and mid-2025.

Yet regulators are increasingly wary of the implications. With strict controls on cross-border capital transfers, authorities fear that cryptocurrencies and stablecoins could facilitate unmonitored outflows. Draft rules being prepared by the finance ministry would prohibit Vietnamese residents from trading on overseas crypto exchanges—a move that could significantly reshape the local market.

Currently, most Vietnamese traders rely on foreign platforms such as Binance, OKX, and Bybit. Although owning crypto is not illegal in Vietnam, digital assets are not recognized as legal tender or an official payment instrument.

Industry leaders say the development of licensed domestic exchanges could help capture value currently flowing abroad. Phan Duc Trung argues that a regulated market would retain transaction fees domestically, strengthen financial supervision, and accelerate the country’s digital finance ecosystem.

For global investors and crypto firms, Vietnam’s strategy reflects a broader trend across Asia: governments are moving away from laissez-faire crypto markets toward tightly regulated domestic ecosystems. The key question now is whether Vietnam can strike the delicate balance between controlling capital flows and maintaining the innovation and liquidity that made it one of the world’s fastest-growing crypto markets in the first place.

Vietnam Overtakes Iran in Nominal GDP as Export Powerhouse Accelerates

Advertisements

Vietnam’s economy has officially surpassed Iran in nominal GDP, highlighting a major shift in the global emerging-market landscape.

New projections for 2025–2026 indicate that Vietnam has reached an estimated $514 billion economy, placing it ahead of Iran, whose nominal GDP is estimated between $356 billion and $475 billion.

The milestone reflects the rapid rise of Vietnam’s export-driven growth model and deeper integration into global supply chains, while Iran continues to face economic headwinds tied to sanctions, inflation and geopolitical tensions.

Economic Snapshot: Vietnam vs Iran (2025 Estimates)

Vietnam’s export value alone is now larger than the entire GDP of several mid-sized economies and vastly exceeds Iran’s export base, which remains concentrated in energy products.

What’s Driving Vietnam’s Economic Surge

1. Strong Growth Momentum

Vietnam recorded economic expansion of around 8% in 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing emerging markets globally. By contrast, Iran’s growth remains modest amid structural constraints and geopolitical pressure.

2. Manufacturing and Export Dominance

Vietnam has evolved into a global manufacturing hub, exporting electronics, textiles, machinery and consumer goods to major markets including the U.S., Europe and Asia. Export turnover reached roughly $505 billion in 2024, almost 38 times larger than Iran’s export value.

3. Macroeconomic Stability

Vietnam has maintained inflation around 3–4%, supporting purchasing power and investment confidence. Iran, meanwhile, continues to struggle with inflation exceeding 40%, which has weakened the domestic currency and constrained economic expansion.

4. Foreign Direct Investment

Strong inflows of foreign direct investment have transformed Vietnam’s industrial base, with multinational corporations relocating manufacturing supply chains to the country as part of broader Asia diversification strategies.

PPP Perspective: Iran Still Larger on a Different Metric

When measured using purchasing power parity (PPP), Iran’s economy remains significantly larger, estimated at roughly $1.9 trillion. Lower domestic prices and extensive energy subsidies boost Iran’s PPP figures.

However, PPP does not necessarily translate into global trade influence or financial market integration, where Vietnam’s export capacity and supply-chain role give it far greater economic leverage.

The Strategic Outlook

Vietnam is increasingly positioning itself among the world’s key emerging economies. Policymakers aim to push the country into the top 30 global economies by 2030, with GDP per capita projected to reach $7,500–$8,500.

For Iran, the trajectory will depend largely on geopolitical developments—particularly the easing of sanctions, stabilization of inflation and structural economic reforms.

Vietnam’s ascent past Iran in nominal GDP underscores the power of export-led industrialization, macroeconomic stability and global supply-chain integration.

As Asia’s manufacturing map continues to evolve, Vietnam is emerging as one of the region’s most dynamic economic success stories.

Tourist Family Sues Shanghai Hotel After Finding Employee Hiding Under Bed

Advertisements

A Thai tourist family has filed a lawsuit against a hotel in Shanghai after discovering a man—later confirmed to be a hotel employee—hiding under a bed in their room.

The disturbing incident gained widespread attention after a video posted online by Thai traveler Yatida Siriwangchai quickly spread across social media.

In the footage, a man can be seen squeezed between the bed and the wall, attempting to remain hidden while the guest questions him.

Viral Video Captures the Moment

According to Siriwangchai, the discovery happened when her family returned to their hotel room.

In the video, she repeatedly asks the man:

  • Who he is

  • How he entered the room

However, the conversation becomes difficult because the two sides do not share a common language.

Some Thai social media users who understand Mandarin later claimed the man said he had entered the wrong room by mistake.

Guest Says the Door Was Locked

Siriwangchai said she had locked the room before leaving and even double-checked the door.

She suspects the man may have used a hotel master key card to open the room.

Later discussions with hotel management reportedly confirmed that the man was an employee of the hotel.

Online Backlash and Safety Concerns

The incident triggered strong reactions online, particularly among travelers concerned about hotel security and guest privacy.

Some social media users questioned the explanation that the employee had simply entered the wrong room.

Others suggested he might have been attempting to steal valuables but hid when the family unexpectedly returned.

After the video spread, additional travelers claimed they had experienced similar security issues at the same hotel.

One Thai woman said a staff member once entered her room without permission and management later apologized, offering four bottles of water as compensation.

Another guest claimed she and a friend felt they were being followed in the building, raising concerns about lax security.

Legal Action and Police Report

Following the incident, Siriwangchai and her family reported the case to local police and filed a lawsuit against the hotel.

The traveler has not publicly revealed the name of the hotel involved.

The case has reignited debate among international travelers about hotel access systems, master key controls, and guest safety protocols—especially in large tourist destinations such as Shanghai.

Remains of War Martyr Found in Cave Along Former Ho Chi Minh Trail

Advertisements

Search teams in central Vietnam have discovered the remains of a fallen soldier inside a mountain cave, alongside personal belongings including a plastic Chinese chess set, a toothbrush, and a lighter.

The discovery was made in Huong Lap Commune, near the Laos border—an area that once served as a strategic corridor during the Vietnam War.

The remains were located deep inside a cave on Co Loong Mountain.

Remains Found 3 Meters Inside Cave

According to the recovery team from Economic–Defense Unit 337, the skeleton was found about three meters inside a rocky cave.

Despite decades underground, many bones remained intact.

Alongside the remains, investigators discovered several personal artifacts believed to have belonged to the soldier, including:

  • A plastic Chinese chess (xiangqi) set

  • A lighter

  • Flashlight batteries

  • A toothbrush

  • Pieces of parachute fabric and military canvas

  • A 2-xu coin issued in 1958

A chess set and many other artifacts were found along with the remains. Photo: 337 Economic-Defense Brigade

These items may help historians and authorities identify the soldier or reconstruct the circumstances of his final moments.

Remains Brought to Memorial Site

After recovery, the remains were transferred to a memorial facility in Khe Sanh Town for preservation while authorities work to determine the soldier’s identity.

Search teams are also continuing to expand the search area in case additional remains are located nearby.

Another Discovery Made Nearby

Just one day earlier, the same team recovered another set of war remains about six kilometers away, near the entrance of a cave on Co Chuoi Mountain.

That discovery included additional wartime artifacts such as:

  • Vehicle headlights

  • Canned food

  • Medical bottles including penicillin

  • Ammunition from AK rifles and K54 pistols

  • Bomb fragments

  • Communication wires wrapped around the remains

A Region Marked by War

Huong Lap lies along the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, a critical logistical route used during the Vietnam War to transport troops, weapons, and supplies from the North to southern battlefields.

The rugged mountains of western Quang Tri Province saw intense combat, ambushes, and air strikes.

Decades after the war ended, teams continue the painstaking effort of locating and identifying fallen soldiers—bringing long-awaited closure to families still searching for loved ones lost in the conflict.

Ships “On Land” and Cars “In the Sea”: Middle East Conflict Disrupts GPS Across the Gulf

Advertisements

Residents and businesses across the Gulf are experiencing bizarre navigation errors as GPS signals are disrupted by electronic warfare linked to the escalating Middle East conflict.

In the United Arab Emirates, drivers and shipping companies report navigation systems showing impossible locations—cars appearing in the middle of the sea and oil tankers displayed deep inland.

Experts say the disruptions are likely caused by defensive electronic countermeasures designed to interfere with missiles and drones.

When GPS Sends Drivers Into the Sea

Many residents in Dubai first noticed the issue while using navigation apps.

One resident told AFP she was driving normally using digital maps when the GPS suddenly began directing her to strange routes and incorrect locations.

Eventually she had to abandon navigation apps and rely on road signs and memory to reach her destination.

Delivery drivers say the disruptions have become a daily frustration.

One courier working in Dubai said a delivery that should normally take 10–15 minutes now sometimes takes 30 minutes because the GPS suddenly freezes or sends him to the wrong location.

Electronic Warfare in the Background

According to Clayton Swope, a space and defense expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the disruptions are likely connected to regional defenses against Iranian drones and missile systems.

Two techniques are commonly used:

1. GPS jamming
Powerful signals overwhelm satellite navigation signals, making them unreadable.

2. GPS spoofing
Fake signals are transmitted to trick devices into calculating the wrong position.

These tactics are part of modern electronic warfare, designed to confuse or mislead guided weapons.

Weak Signals Make GPS Easy to Disrupt

GPS systems work by receiving very weak timing signals from satellites orbiting Earth.

Because the signals are so faint, it is relatively easy for ground-based transmitters to block or override them with stronger signals.

Lisa Dyer of the GPS Innovation Alliance said the disruptions could pose serious risks.

She warned that interference may affect:

  • Civil aviation

  • Maritime navigation

  • Logistics and transportation infrastructure

Half of Ships in the Gulf Report Problems

Shipping traffic appears particularly affected.

According to maritime data analyzed by Kpler, nearly 1,000 vessels in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman have experienced GPS interference since the conflict intensified.

That represents about half of all ships operating in the region.

In some cases, GPS spoofing has caused massive oil tankers to appear on navigation systems as if they were parked on land in the UAE or Iran.

The Cost of Defense

Despite the disruptions, Gulf governments appear willing to tolerate the inconvenience.

From a military perspective, interfering with GPS signals can reduce the accuracy of enemy drones and missile guidance systems, potentially protecting critical infrastructure.

For civilians, however, the result is a strange new reality:

  • Ships apparently sailing across deserts

  • Cars navigating through oceans

  • Navigation apps suddenly losing their sense of direction

As electronic warfare intensifies in the region, the invisible battle for control of satellite navigation signals is increasingly spilling into everyday life.

Desperate for a Child: Hanoi Couple Loses Fortune in Surrogacy Fraud Case

Advertisements

A Hanoi court has sentenced a woman to 13 years in prison for running a fraudulent surrogacy scheme that scammed an infertile couple out of more than VND1.3 billion (about $50,000).

The case highlights the growing risks faced by couples seeking surrogacy arrangements outside official medical channels in Vietnam.

The verdict was handed down by the Hanoi People’s Court on March 13.

Promise of a Child Turns Into a Costly Deception

According to prosecutors, the victims—identified only as a Hanoi couple surnamed H.—had struggled with infertility for years and were searching for someone willing to carry a child through surrogacy.

In early 2024, through an intermediary, they were introduced to Dao Thi Lan Phuong, 44, who claimed she could arrange the surrogacy.

The parties agreed on a total cost of VND1.5 billion for the arrangement.

In reality, investigators found that Phuong had no legal authority or medical role in providing surrogacy services.

Authorities say she devised the scheme because she needed money to repay personal debts and fund daily expenses.

Elaborate Scheme to Build Trust

To convince the couple the process was legitimate, Phuong staged a series of actions that appeared to follow standard fertility procedures.

These included:

  • Arranging a supposed egg donor

  • Taking the husband to hospitals for fertility tests and sperm collection

  • Drafting a fake IVF service contract

She also searched social media for egg donors and promised the couple their baby would be born in December 2024.

Fake Medical Documents and Ongoing Payments

After the contract was signed, Phuong repeatedly asked the couple to transfer money to cover various fabricated medical fees.

In total, the victims transferred more than VND1.3 billion.

To maintain the illusion, Phuong:

  • Sent edited ultrasound and pregnancy records

  • Shared altered medical prescriptions

  • Claimed the pregnancy was progressing normally

Investigators later determined these documents had been taken from the internet and digitally modified.

Truth Revealed Near the “Due Date”

As December 2024 approached—the time when the baby was supposed to be born—Phuong began giving excuses to delay the handover.

Eventually she admitted she had never arranged any surrogacy procedure.

By that point, most of the money had already been spent.

Phuong returned VND240 million to the victims and promised to repay another VND800 million, but the couple reported the case to police.

Surrogacy Laws in Vietnam

Vietnam allows altruistic surrogacy under strict conditions, typically involving close relatives and approved medical procedures.

Commercial surrogacy—where payment is exchanged beyond medical costs—remains illegal.

Experts say the legal restrictions have created an environment where some couples, desperate for a child, may turn to informal networks or brokers, increasing the risk of scams.

For the Hanoi couple in this case, what began as hope for a child ultimately ended in financial loss and a lengthy criminal trial.

Firefighters Cut Open Truck Cabin to Rescue Driver After Crash Near Da Nang Expressway

Advertisements

Emergency crews in central Vietnam carried out a dramatic rescue after a truck driver became trapped inside the crushed cabin of his vehicle following a crash near the Da Nang–Quang Ngai Expressway.

The accident occurred late Thursday morning on a road leading to the Da Nang–Quang Ngai Expressway, one of the region’s key transport corridors.

Rescue teams were forced to cut open the truck’s mangled cabin using hydraulic equipment to reach the driver.

Driver Trapped in Deformed Cabin

According to the Da Nang Fire and Rescue Police, the incident happened at around 10:10 a.m. on March 13.

Authorities said a tractor-trailer lost control and crashed on the expressway access road, leaving the front of the truck severely damaged.

The driver—identified as Ta Van Khi, 41, from Hanoi—was pinned inside the cabin and unable to escape.

Metal structures from the vehicle had collapsed around him, trapping him in a tight and dangerous space.

Specialized Rescue Operation

After receiving the emergency call, firefighters deployed:

  • A command vehicle

  • A rescue truck

  • A fire engine

  • Multiple rescue personnel

The operation was led on-site by Major Huynh Ngoc Trung, deputy head of the local rescue team.

Because the cabin doors were jammed shut, rescuers used hydraulic spreaders and cutting tools to dismantle sections of the metal frame and create a safe path to the victim.

Driver Freed and Taken to Hospital

After a coordinated effort, rescuers successfully freed the driver from the wreckage.

He received initial medical treatment at the scene before being transported to a hospital for further care.

Authorities said the driver survived the crash, though his injuries have not been fully disclosed.

Investigation Underway

Officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the accident.

Traffic incidents involving heavy trucks are a persistent concern on Vietnam’s expanding highway network, particularly on expressway access routes where vehicles accelerate or merge into high-speed traffic.

Authorities have not yet released further details about how the crash occurred.

Teen Hospitalized in Hanoi After Dangerous Experiment, Doctors Highlight Sex Education Gap

Advertisements

A 15-year-old boy in Hanoi was rushed to hospital after a metal object became lodged in his rectum, prompting doctors and psychologists to warn about the risks of poor sex education and unsupervised online information among teenagers.

Doctors say the case highlights a broader issue: many adolescents are curious about their changing bodies but lack reliable guidance on sexual health and safety.

The teenager was treated at Ha Dong General Hospital, where medical imaging revealed a metal pestle about 18 centimeters long stuck inside the rectum.

A Common but Underreported Medical Issue

According to Dr. Tra Anh Duy, a specialist in men’s health and lecturer at University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Ho Chi Minh City), adolescence is a period of intense hormonal, physical, and psychological change.

During puberty, boys typically experience:

  • Rapid growth and voice changes

  • Development of body hair

  • First ejaculation

  • Increasing sexual curiosity

From a psychological perspective, this stage is when teenagers begin building their “mental map” of sexuality and body awareness.

Exploration—within safe boundaries—is considered a normal part of development, experts say.

However, without proper guidance, experimentation can sometimes turn dangerous.

Why Risky Behavior Happens

Dr. Duy explained that most sexual self-exploration among teenagers occurs in private, often without adult guidance.

When parents and schools avoid discussing sexual health, teenagers frequently turn to friends or the internet for answers.

This can create what psychologists describe as a “risk triangle”:

  • Lack of accurate knowledge

  • No trusted adult to ask

  • Poor ability to assess danger

At the same time, teenagers’ brains are still developing, particularly the regions responsible for impulse control and long-term decision-making.

This can lead to the common adolescent mindset: “Let’s try it once and see what happens.”

A Warning About the Sex Education Gap

Doctors say incidents involving foreign objects in the lower digestive tract linked to sexual curiosity are not rare in emergency medicine, especially among teenagers.

The case has sparked discussion about gaps in sex education in Vietnam, where conversations about sexuality often remain sensitive or avoided.

Experts stress that the purpose of sex education is not to shame or forbid curiosity, but to ensure young people have the knowledge needed to protect their bodies and make safe decisions.

Advice for Parents and Schools

Specialists recommend that parents approach the topic calmly and without judgment.

Rather than scolding children, experts suggest opening conversations with statements such as:

“At your age, being curious about your body is normal. The important thing is knowing how to stay safe.”

Schools, meanwhile, should focus sex education on three key pillars:

  • Understanding the body

  • Learning about consent and personal boundaries

  • Developing practical safety knowledge

Seek Medical Help Immediately

Doctors also warn that if an accident involving the genitals or rectal area occurs, patients should seek medical care immediately rather than attempting home treatment.

Prompt treatment can prevent complications and reduce long-term damage.

Experts say the most effective way to prevent such incidents is creating a safe support system—where families and schools provide accurate information and teenagers feel comfortable seeking help when they need it.

Fuel Price Shock Sparks Electric Vehicle Buying Wave in Vietnam

Advertisements

A sharp surge in fuel prices is triggering what some analysts describe as Vietnam’s largest shift toward electric vehicles in a decade, as consumers increasingly abandon gasoline-powered vehicles in search of cheaper alternatives.

Long queues at gas stations in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have become a familiar sight in recent weeks.

The spike—driven partly by geopolitical tensions affecting global oil markets—has pushed many drivers to reconsider how they commute.

Drivers Feeling the “Fuel Price Shock”

For commuters who rely on gasoline vehicles, the financial impact has been immediate.

Hoang Nam, a commuter living in suburban Ho Chi Minh City, said his monthly fuel bill for an SUV has doubled from around VND1.5 million to VND3 million ($60–$120).

“Every time the fuel gauge drops, it feels painful,” he said. “Sometimes it feels like I’m working just to keep the car running.”

Beyond higher prices, motorists are also dealing with crowded fuel stations and occasional supply shortages, further fueling frustration.

Electric Vehicles Seen as a Financial Escape

At the same time, many Vietnamese consumers are discovering the appeal of electric vehicles.

One Hanoi resident who recently replaced his gasoline sedan with a VinFast VF 8 said the switch eliminated the anxiety of fluctuating fuel prices.

“Now I just charge the car and drive all week,” he said. “No worrying about fuel price changes.”

Delivery workers and ride-hailing drivers are also joining the trend.

A Ho Chi Minh City-based ride-hailing driver who recently switched to an electric motorbike said she now saves more than VND2 million per month compared with operating a gasoline bike.

EV Showrooms See Surge in Customers

Dealerships across Vietnam report a noticeable increase in traffic at electric vehicle showrooms, particularly those run by VinFast.

Popular models such as:

  • VinFast VF 3

  • VinFast VF 6

  • VinFast VF 7

have reportedly seen surging interest and even temporary shortages in some showrooms.

Sales staff say many customers who once hesitated about charging infrastructure or battery durability are now focused on a simpler question: “How soon can I receive the car?”

Economic Pressures Accelerating the Shift

Online search data also reflects the trend.

According to industry observers, searches comparing “electric vehicle costs vs gasoline vehicles” have increased by roughly 60% in the past two months.

The shift is driven by several overlapping factors:

  • Rising fuel prices

  • Urban emissions regulations

  • Expanding EV charging infrastructure

  • Financial incentives from manufacturers

Government Policies Also Pushing Change

In addition to fuel costs, environmental policies are beginning to influence consumer decisions.

Some cities, including Hanoi, plan to introduce stricter emissions regulations and time-based restrictions on gasoline motorcycles in central districts starting July 2026.

These measures are expected to accelerate the transition toward electric transport.

Long-Term Economic Benefits

Economists say the shift could also help Vietnam reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels.

According to economic analyst Tran Anh Tung, electric vehicles generally consume 15–20 kWh of electricity per 100 km, resulting in energy costs that are 40–60% lower than gasoline vehicles under current energy prices.

If EV adoption continues to grow, he said, the country could reduce exposure to global oil price volatility and inflation pressures.

For many Vietnamese drivers, however, the calculation is simpler.

As one new EV owner put it:
“When gasoline prices rise, I don’t feel it anymore.”

Vietnam’s Passport Climbs Global Rankings, Opening Visa-Free Access to 48 Destinations

Advertisements

Vietnam’s passport has moved six places up in the global passport rankings, giving its citizens easier travel access to 48 destinations worldwide, according to the latest global mobility index.

In the 2026 ranking by Henley & Partners, Vietnam’s passport now sits 84th in the world, an improvement from its position in December 2025.

The ranking means Vietnamese passport holders can now enter dozens of countries without applying for a visa in advance, either through visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, or electronic travel authorization.

Where Vietnamese Travelers Can Go Without a Visa

According to the Henley Passport Index, 23 countries and territories offer visa-free entry to Vietnamese citizens.

These include several destinations across Southeast Asia and beyond:

  • Singapore

  • Thailand

  • Malaysia

  • Indonesia

  • Philippines

  • Cambodia

  • Brunei

  • Myanmar

  • Laos

  • Iran

  • Kazakhstan

  • Kyrgyzstan

  • Mongolia

  • Chile

  • Barbados

Other visa-free destinations include Belarus, Dominica, Micronesia, Rwanda, Suriname, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Panama, and the Cook Islands.

Visa on Arrival and Electronic Entry Options

In addition to visa-free access, 22 destinations offer visas on arrival, including:

  • Maldives

  • Nepal

  • Jordan

  • Mauritius

  • Madagascar

  • Namibia

  • Tanzania

  • Timor-Leste

Meanwhile, three countries require electronic travel authorization (ETA) before arrival:

  • Kenya

  • Seychelles

  • Sri Lanka

Vietnam Still Trails Regional Leaders

Within Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s passport remains behind several neighbors in travel freedom.

The world’s most powerful passport in 2026 belongs to Singapore, whose citizens can access more than 190 destinations visa-free or with simplified entry.

Other strong passports in the region include Malaysia and Brunei, while Japan, South Korea, and many European countries also rank among the world’s most powerful.

Visa Policies Slowly Improving

Vietnam’s rising ranking reflects gradual expansion of bilateral visa-waiver agreements and improvements in global mobility for its citizens.

At the same time, Vietnam itself has been expanding electronic visa (e-visa) programs and visa exemptions for foreign visitors, part of broader efforts to boost tourism and international business links.

While the Vietnamese passport still ranks in the middle globally, its steady climb signals growing international connectivity for the country’s travelers.

“I Wish I’d Known Earlier”: U.S. Tourist Reflects on 4 Travel Mistakes in Vietnam

Advertisements

After nearly three weeks traveling from south to north across Vietnam, American traveler Gentry Hale says the country left a powerful impression—but also a few regrets.

From bustling cities to limestone seascapes, Hale explored destinations including Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay.

She praised Vietnam’s spectacular landscapes, rich cuisine, and friendly locals, describing experiences such as kayaking among limestone karsts in Ha Long Bay and strolling lantern-lit streets in Hoi An as unforgettable.

But looking back, Hale says several planning mistakes made parts of her trip harder than they needed to be.

1. Not Learning Enough About Local Culture

Before arriving, Hale focused mainly on researching famous attractions and food.

What she didn’t spend enough time studying was local etiquette and daily customs.

For example, she was surprised to learn that pointing with a single finger can sometimes be considered impolite in Vietnam, where people often gesture with an open hand instead.

She also realized that learning a few Vietnamese phrases—such as “xin chào” (hello) or “cảm ơn” (thank you)—would have made communication much easier.

“Many locals seemed genuinely happy when I tried speaking Vietnamese,” she said.

2. Packing Too Many Destinations Into the Itinerary

Hale initially believed that three weeks was plenty of time to visit many parts of Vietnam.

But once she started traveling between cities, she realized distances can be more demanding than they appear on a map.

Long journeys—especially by train—often took many hours or even most of a day.

One overnight train journey lasted around 16 hours, cutting into the time she could spend exploring destinations.

If she returns, Hale says she would visit fewer places and stay longer in each one.

3. Underestimating Vietnam’s Weather Differences

Vietnam’s regional climate differences also caught her off guard.

Her trip began in Ho Chi Minh City in October, where the heat and humidity felt like a sauna, she said.

Later in Hanoi, the weather became cooler and rainy, creating a completely different travel experience.

After several days of sightseeing and trekking, Hale realized she should have packed:

  • More breathable clothing

  • Quick-dry travel outfits

  • Flexible layers for changing weather

4. Feeling Awkward About Bargaining

Hale said she loved exploring local markets and artisan shops, buying items such as:

  • Tailored clothing in Hoi An

  • Handmade leather goods in Hanoi

  • Street food across different cities

However, she initially felt uncomfortable bargaining.

In the United States, negotiating prices is rare in everyday shopping.

But in Vietnam’s markets, she later discovered that bargaining is often expected and widely accepted.

“If I had understood that earlier, I could have saved quite a bit of money,” she said.

A Trip Still Worth Taking

Despite these lessons, Hale says Vietnam remains one of her favorite travel experiences.

For future travelers, her advice is simple:

  • Learn a little about local culture

  • Plan fewer destinations

  • Prepare for diverse climates

  • Don’t be afraid to bargain in markets

With better preparation, she believes visitors can enjoy an even richer and more relaxed journey through Vietnam.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City Enter World’s Top 50 Cities for 2026

Advertisements

Vietnam’s two largest cities gain global recognition for food culture, affordability and vibrant urban life

Vietnam’s urban appeal is gaining global recognition as both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City were named among the world’s 50 best cities for 2026 in a new international ranking—signaling the country’s growing influence in global tourism, culture, and urban lifestyle.

According to the latest “Best Cities 2026” report by Time Out, Hanoi placed 25th while Ho Chi Minh City ranked 38th, outperforming numerous well-known destinations worldwide. The ranking, based on surveys of more than 24,000 residents across 150 global cities and evaluations from over 100 urban experts, prioritizes authentic living experiences rather than purely tourist appeal.

Hanoi’s position reflects a unique balance between tradition and transformation. The city continues to preserve its historic identity—visible in the Old Quarter, lakeside cafés, and centuries-old culinary traditions—while rapidly evolving into a creative urban hub. Local entrepreneurs are launching new bars, music venues, and cultural spaces that are drawing a younger generation and positioning Hanoi as a rising nightlife destination in Asia. Survey results reinforce this appeal: about 73% of residents praised the city’s food culture, 67% expressed satisfaction with nightlife, and 72% said it was easy to make friends. Affordability remains a major draw, with 62% of respondents describing dining out as reasonably priced and 80% highlighting the low cost of coffee culture.

Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City earned recognition for its relentless energy and entrepreneurial spirit. Often compared to Southeast Asia’s fastest-moving metropolises, the city has become a magnet for creativity, startups, and entertainment. A recent milestone was the city’s designation by UNESCO as a “Creative City of Cinema,” making it the first in Southeast Asia to receive the title. The inaugural Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival drew roughly 280,000 visitors, reinforcing the city’s ambitions as a regional cultural hub.

Photo: Olivier Ochanine

Cuisine continues to play a central role in the city’s global reputation. A new generation of chefs is redefining Vietnamese gastronomy—from innovative fine dining to sustainability-driven restaurants focused on waste reduction and alcohol-free experiences. Around 75% of residents rated Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene highly, while 70% expressed satisfaction with nightlife and an equal share reported being happy living in the city.

Globally, the ranking’s top positions were dominated by major cultural capitals such as Melbourne, Shanghai, Edinburgh, London, and New York City. Yet the inclusion of Vietnam’s two largest cities highlights how emerging urban centers are reshaping global travel and lifestyle trends.

For international travelers, digital nomads, and investors watching Southeast Asia, the message is clear: Vietnam’s cities are no longer just affordable gateways to Asia—they are becoming cultural destinations in their own right. The question now is whether Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can sustain their creative momentum as tourism, population growth, and global attention continue to accelerate.

FBI Offers $1M Reward for Vietnamese Fugitive on Most Wanted List

Advertisements

U.S. authorities seek global help to capture suspect tied to brutal double murder in Philadelphia

U.S. federal authorities have escalated the hunt for a Vietnamese-born fugitive accused of participating in a brutal double murder, offering a $1 million reward for information leading to his capture. The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced on March 11 that Trung Duc Lu has been added to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, one of the agency’s most prominent global alerts.

Investigators say Lu, born in 1980, immigrated to the United States as a teenager and previously lived in Queens, New York. He is suspected of ties to the Vietnamese-American gang known as Born to Kill (BTK), also referred to as the Canal Boys, a group historically associated with organized criminal activity within diaspora communities.

According to prosecutors, Lu is accused of participating in the 2014 kidnapping, torture, and murder of two Vietnamese brothers—Vu Huynh, 31, and Viet Huynh, 28—in Philadelphia. Authorities allege the victims were targeted over unpaid debts connected to illegal gambling and marijuana trafficking. Their bodies were later discovered in the Schuylkill River, bound with zip ties and weighed down to sink beneath the water.

At a press conference announcing the reward increase, federal prosecutor David Metcalf confirmed that several accomplices in the case have already been arrested, prosecuted, and convicted. Former crime scene investigator John Taggert described the perpetrators as unusually brutal, noting that the level of violence exceeded what forensic investigators typically encounter.

Lu was indicted in absentia in 2019, and an arrest warrant has remained active since then. Authorities believe he fled the United States and may currently be outside the country, with his last confirmed location reportedly in Vietnam. Investigators say he may also use multiple aliases, including Phong Le, Brendan Lu, and Calvin Lu.

The suspect is described as bilingual in English and Vietnamese and previously worked as a nail technician. Law enforcement officials also noted distinctive tattoos, including a dragon and the words “Asian Pride” across his back, as well as a dragon-and-tiger design on his arm.

The FBI is urging anyone with information about Lu’s whereabouts to contact federal authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The case underscores the increasingly global nature of law enforcement cooperation as agencies track fugitives who move across borders.

For international readers, the case highlights how diaspora-linked criminal investigations often extend beyond national boundaries, requiring coordination between U.S. federal authorities and foreign governments—a reminder that in an interconnected world, even decade-old crimes can remain active global pursuits.

Doanh nghiệp giáo dục AI của Trung Quốc YBC đảm nhiệm đơn vị luân phiên đầu tiên của Liên minh Giáo dục AI Thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS.

Advertisements

Mới đây, Đại hội thành lập Liên minh Giáo dục Trí tuệ Nhân tạo Thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS đã được tổ chức tại thủ đô Bắc Kinh, Trung Quốc. Với tư cách là doanh nghiệp dẫn đầu trong lĩnh vực giáo dục trí tuệ nhân tạo của Trung Quốc, YBC được Liên minh Quốc tế các Dự án Chiến lược BRICS đặc biệt mời tham gia với tư cách là một trong các đơn vị sáng lập, đồng thời đảm nhiệm vai trò đơn vị luân phiên đầu tiên, phụ trách điều phối hoạt động thường nhật và thúc đẩy triển khai các dự án của liên minh. Việc bổ nhiệm này đánh dấu thực tiễn giáo dục AI dành cho thanh thiếu niên của Trung Quốc đã nhận được sự công nhận ở cấp độ quốc tế.

Đại diện chính phủ, các học giả hàng đầu và lãnh đạo ngành đến từ các nước BRICS như Brazil, Nga, Ấn Độ, Trung Quốc và Nam Phi đã cùng chứng kiến lễ ra mắt của liên minh. Việc thành lập liên minh nhằm triển khai sáng kiến của các nhà lãnh đạo BRICS về mở rộng hợp tác giáo dục, lấy giáo dục AI làm điểm khởi đầu để thúc đẩy hợp tác sâu rộng trong lĩnh vực giáo dục công nghệ mới nổi. Các đại biểu tham dự cho rằng việc tăng cường hợp tác giáo dục AI cho thanh thiếu niên có ý nghĩa quan trọng đối với việc đào tạo nguồn nhân lực khoa học – công nghệ trong tương lai và thu hẹp khoảng cách số.

YBC có thể đảm nhiệm trọng trách này nhờ quá trình đầu tư và phát triển lâu dài trong lĩnh vực giáo dục AI dành cho thanh thiếu niên. Kể từ khi thành lập năm 2017, YBC đã đào tạo tích lũy hơn 8 triệu học viên tại Trung Quốc; hoạt động trong hệ thống trường học đã phủ khắp 30 đơn vị hành chính cấp tỉnh và hơn 4.500 trường học trên toàn quốc. Công ty đã tự nghiên cứu và phát triển nền tảng sáng tạo lập trình sở hữu 39 quyền sở hữu trí tuệ độc lập, đồng thời ra mắt mô hình ngôn ngữ lớn chuyên biệt cho lĩnh vực giáo dục với quy mô 70 tỷ tham số, cung cấp nền tảng công nghệ hỗ trợ cho hoạt động giảng dạy. “Hệ thống giáo dục 4C” do YBC tiên phong xây dựng là biểu hiện quan trọng cho năng lực cạnh tranh cốt lõi của doanh nghiệp. Hệ thống này tập trung bồi dưỡng cho thanh thiếu niên năng lực nhận thức nền tảng, năng lực tư duy tổng hợp, năng lực tự hiệu quả và năng lực tích hợp liên ngành, qua đó xây dựng một lộ trình giáo dục hoàn chỉnh từ phát triển nhận thức đến hình thành năng lực. Triết lý đổi mới này không chỉ được công nhận rộng rãi tại Trung Quốc mà các sản phẩm khóa học của doanh nghiệp còn được lựa chọn vào danh mục điển hình của chương trình “Trí tuệ nhân tạo vì trẻ em” của Quỹ Nhi đồng Liên Hợp Quốc. Trong nhiều năm qua, YBC liên tục tham gia các hoạt động giao lưu giáo dục quốc tế, chia sẻ thành quả thực tiễn trong lĩnh vực giáo dục AI cho thanh thiếu niên tại nhiều diễn đàn quốc tế, qua đó tích lũy kinh nghiệm phong phú về hợp tác quốc tế.

Tại lễ thành lập, nhà sáng lập YBC và Chủ tịch luân phiên đầu tiên Lý Dực đã trình bày sứ mệnh cốt lõi của liên minh: “Lấy công nghệ làm cầu nối, thúc đẩy giao lưu liên văn hóa giữa thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS, xây dựng hệ sinh thái giáo dục phát triển nhận thức cho thanh thiếu niên trong kỷ nguyên trí tuệ nhân tạo, đồng thời bồi dưỡng những nhà sáng tạo tương lai hướng tới thời đại AI.” Để thực hiện sứ mệnh này, ông đã công bố một loạt kế hoạch hành động: thành lập “Trung tâm Tương lai Giáo dục AI các nước BRICS” tại Bắc Kinh, làm cơ sở thường trực cho các hoạt động giao lưu và thảo luận giữa các quốc gia; sáng lập “Diễn đàn Quốc tế Giáo dục AI Thanh thiếu niên các nước BRICS”, xây dựng một nền tảng đối thoại định kỳ cấp cao; khởi động “Kế hoạch quyên tặng một triệu giờ học” dành cho các nước BRICS nhằm hỗ trợ phổ cập giáo dục AI, Cùng xây dựng “Hệ thống giáo dục AI các nước BRICS” phù hợp với điều kiện quốc gia khác nhau, đồng thời tìm kiếm và phát triển các mô hình giáo dục có thể nhân rộng.

Để bảo đảm hoạt động hợp tác xuyên quốc gia được vận hành hiệu quả, Ban Thư ký của liên minh sẽ thường trực tại trụ sở YBC ở Bắc Kinh, phụ trách công tác vận hành thường nhật và triển khai các dự án. Đồng thời, một ủy ban gồm đại diện của các quốc gia thành viên sẽ được thành lập nhằm hình thành mạng lưới hợp tác quốc tế mang tính thường xuyên. Cơ chế này được thiết kế với sự cân nhắc đầy đủ đến bối cảnh văn hóa đa dạng của các nước BRICS, hướng tới việc thực hiện chia sẻ nguồn lực trên cơ sở tôn trọng điều kiện và đặc thù của từng quốc gia.

 

Chủ tịch Liên minh Quốc tế các Dự án Chiến lược BRICS trao bảng chứng nhận cho YBC.

Chủ tịch Liên minh Quốc tế các Dự án Chiến lược BRICS MIKHAIL BORISOV đã đánh giá cao ý nghĩa chiến lược của việc thành lập liên minh, coi đây là “một biện pháp chiến lược nhằm định hình tương lai chung”. Ông nhấn mạnh rằng liên minh sẽ tích hợp các nguồn lực giáo dục toàn cầu, thông qua các hình thức như cuộc thi, trại hè và đào tạo giáo viên để bồi dưỡng nguồn nhân lực dự bị cho các nước BRICS. Ông bày tỏ sự tin tưởng vào năng lực của YBC và kỳ vọng liên minh sẽ nhanh chóng khởi động các dự án hợp tác mang tính thực chất. Việc thành lập liên minh là một thực tiễn quan trọng trong quá trình xây dựng cơ chế hợp tác giáo dục giữa các nước BRICS, đồng thời cũng là sự kiện mang tính biểu tượng đánh dấu hệ thống giáo dục AI của Trung Quốc vươn ra quốc tế. Với tư cách là đơn vị khởi xướng, YBC đã đưa các ý tưởng đổi mới như “Hệ thống giáo dục 4C” vào hợp tác quốc tế, cung cấp “giải pháp Trung Quốc” cho các nước BRICS. YBC không chỉ là nhà cung cấp nguồn lực giáo dục mà còn là động lực thúc đẩy xây dựng hệ thống giáo dục AI và là cầu nối cho hợp tác quốc tế.

Cùng với việc liên minh chính thức khởi động, YBC sẽ hợp tác với các đối tác từ các nước BRICS, triển khai hợp tác thực chất trên nhiều phương diện, từ đồng xây dựng chương trình học đến đào tạo giáo viên, từ trao đổi học thuật đến giao lưu giữa thanh thiếu niên. Trong tương lai, liên minh còn dự kiến mở rộng và phổ biến các thành quả tới nhiều khu vực rộng lớn hơn, thúc đẩy hình thành cục diện mới của giáo dục AI toàn cầu theo hướng cởi mở và bao trùm hơn.. Với vai trò đơn vị luân phiên đầu tiên, YBC sẽ phát huy tối đa lợi thế chuyên môn, dựa trên nền tảng BRICS để thúc đẩy phát triển năng lực AI cho thanh thiếu niên trên toàn cầu, qua đó đóng góp vào việc bồi dưỡng các nhà đổi mới sáng tạo trong tương lai.

Exit mobile version