Persimmon gardens in Da Lat – an attractive destination for tourists

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Da Lat has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for music, with various music stages that play a key role in promoting tourism development. Aside from music, the products of this city also contribute significantly to the tourism industry. The natural persimmon gardens, for instance, are integrated with coffee shops and check-in points that are particularly attractive to young people. During the weekends, these gardens are usually teeming with tourists.

Persimmon gardens charge a fee of about 20,000 – 30,000 VND/person, some places are even free. Visitors can buy persimmons to support the garden owner.

As tourism services in Da Lat continue to evolve, destinations like the persimmon gardens are constantly being updated to keep up with the changing times. These changes not only attract visitors from other cities but also provide new and interesting experiences for locals. Many gardeners now choose to plant persimmon varieties that bear fruit late into January, extending the tourist season and providing an additional boost to the tourism industry. Although the persimmon season typically ends in late November and early December, these efforts to extend the season are a testament to the city’s dedication to promoting tourism.

Vietnam listed among countries with the best quality of life in Asia

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According to Insider Monkey magazine, Vietnam ranks 12th among the countries with the best quality of life in Asia.

The 12 countries with the best quality of life in Asia include Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Brunei, Qatar, Malaysia, Bahrain, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Bhutan, and Vietnam.

To rank these 12 Asian countries with the best quality of life, the economic magazine Insider Monkey considers three indices: Human Development Index (HDI), the economic freedom index, and the efficiency of the government.

Notably, Vietnam is ranked 12th on the aforementioned list, with an HDI report of 0.703 in 2021. According to the World Bank, Vietnam has a government efficiency index of 59.43%. The economic freedom index for the country is 61.80 this year.

Vietnam has impressive indicators to achieve a significant increase in quality of life.

Economic experts recognize Asia as a diverse region with some countries making significant progress in improving the quality of life. However, nations must continue to enhance investment, implement suitable demographic planning efforts, and promote gender equality initiatives to transition from poverty and underdevelopment to secure, prosperous, and improved quality of life states.

Despite these challenges hindering progress, many Asian countries are implementing progressive strategies to enhance quality of life by striving to increase GDP, improve public purchasing power, and enhance access to economic resources, welfare, and services.

According to the “Overview of Quality of Life Across Asia: A Sociological Assessment” study by a sociologist, Asian countries are continuously competing to improve their quality of life. This research highlights key factors such as education, income, employment, health, and the environment influencing quality of life in the region.

Currently, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that the Asia-Pacific region has a GDP of 37.04 trillion USD, with a growth rate of 4.4% projected until 2023. The average GDP per capita in the region is 8,390 USD. Inflation in the region is forecasted to decrease from 4.4% in 2022 to 3.6% in 2023 and 3.5% in 2024.

@Cafef

YouTube accused of slow loading on Firefox, smooth on Chrome

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Some users have reported that YouTube is intentionally slowing down on the Firefox browser, causing slower upload speeds compared to Chrome.

According to Neowin, if the user’s internet connection is stable, it seems that the issue may be related to performance and hardware optimization for Firefox, such as poor hardware acceleration support or other issues related to system resources.

YouTube runs on Firefox “delayed” 5 seconds compared to Chrome

The issue is that users notice a 5-second delay when loading YouTube videos on the Firefox browser, and this delay disappears when YouTube is tricked into thinking that the video is running on Chrome using a User Agent switch. This suggests that YouTube seems to intentionally load slowly on the Firefox browser, which is a competitor to Chrome.

In fact, this issue is not entirely surprising as similar allegations occasionally arise because browser companies often take measures to compete for market share or increase user numbers. With Google owning Chrome and YouTube, the company has a reason to limit access speed to the largest video social network on rival browsers.

This issue does not occur when using uBlock Origin, so if users find it inconvenient to load YouTube in 5 seconds on Firefox and do not want to use the User Agent switch workaround, they can resort to using uBlock.

@Thanhnien.vn

Cultural path of Vietnam – Korea friendship returns

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The Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival will return on December 2nd and 3rd at Tran Van Lai Street, Hanoi.

Numerous musical activities by Korean artists will take center stage during the Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival. This year’s festival, themed “The Journey Together,” will be held on December 2nd and 3rd at Tran Van Lai Street, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi.

Lanterns with Korean and Vietnamese flags during a festival connecting the two countries last year

On the first day of the festival, traditional Korean folk music performances will be presented by groups such as Chuncheon nongak, Hanaesori, the classical music groups Pilgrim and Lieblings. Vietnamese young singers, including Hoang Ton and Liz Kim Cuong, will also perform at the opening ceremony.

The second day of the Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival will feature traditional Korean instrumental groups and a B-boy performance by a popular Korean dance group. Notably, the “legendary singer” Wax will also make an appearance. She is highly regarded for her songs that evoke nostalgia and awaken deep emotions from the past.

The organizers of the Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival stated that they carefully considered the selection of suitable guests. “In Vietnam, the youth are very interested in the festival, so we invited young artists to participate. Meanwhile, the Korean community in Vietnam is relatively older, so we chose Wax,” said Mr. Park Jongil, the representative of the organizing committee.

Speaking about the influence of artist Wax, Mr. Park Jongil compared her popularity, stating that in Korea, whenever people sing karaoke, her songs are frequently chosen. Wax is admired not only by older audiences but also by younger fans.

The theme of this year’s event was chosen in the context of the two countries upgrading their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival will continue to be held on Tran Van Lai Street, a densely populated area with a significant Korean community, bringing together the distinctive cultural and culinary features of Korea.

Ms. Chang Eun Sook, President of the Korean Association in Hanoi, mentioned that besides the cultural gala, the event will include activities such as photography, traditional games, traditional costumes, etc. These activities are a collaboration with the Korean Cultural Center, aiming to provide visitors with an immersive experience. Approximately 500 lights will be hung along Tran Van Lai Street in the evening to add to the festive atmosphere.

The organizers of the Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival 2023 hope that this will become an annual cultural event, symbolizing harmony between the two countries. It is also expected to contribute to making the My Dinh Riverside Urban Area, where Tran Van Lai Street is located, more well-known and establish it as a symbol of the Korean community in Vietnam.

Previously, in 2022, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and South Korea, the Vietnam-Korea Friendship Cultural Festival took place on Tran Van Lai Street, attracting over 150,000 participants.

@Thanhnien.vn

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi among the top 10 favorite destinations of Indian tourists

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Two cities in Vietnam are on the list of preferred destinations for Indian tourists, amidst a context where the people of this country are favoring domestic tourism over international travel.

In the list of the top 10 preferred destinations for Indian tourists, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) ranks 6th, and Hanoi ranks 8th. This holds significant meaning as currently, only about 1% of Indian tourists travel abroad, with the majority preferring domestic tourism. This trend has emerged since the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the booking platform Booking.com and the consulting company McKinsey, Indians undertook 1.7 billion trips in 2022, with only 1% of these being international travel.

Indian tourists prefer to travel domestically

This trend is expected to continue until 2030. A report released in October forecasts that Indian tourists will undertake 5 billion trips in 2030, with 99% of them being domestic.

The most populous country globally is anticipated to become the fourth-largest spender in tourism by 2030, primarily due to the increasing average income and household income expected to rise by an additional $35,000 per year by that time. Concurrently, spending on tourism and travel by Indian tourists is predicted to reach $410 billion – an increase of over 170% compared to $150 billion in 2019.

Moreover, according to McKinsey, the population of India is youthful, with an average age of 27.6, which is 10 years younger than most major economies.

Currently, the most visited destinations by Indian tourists are large cities, but there is a notable trend towards an increasing preference for smaller cities.

@Thanhnien.vn

Binance Will Retain Its International Dominance After U.S. Settlement: Bernstein

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The deal also removes the final hurdle before approval of a spot bitcoin ETF, the report said.

While Binance experienced minor outflows of less than $1 billion following the news of the settlement with the U.S. government, there was no major panic from customers, and it remains the dominant crypto exchange internationally, with $67 billion of customer funds under custody, broker Bernstein said in a research report Wednesday.

“Binance’s reputation with retail non-U.S. customers has remained strong through the crisis,” analysts led by Gautam Chhugani wrote.

Binance will remain a “material entity in non-U.S. markets,” but Bernstein says it expects increased competition from the likes of listed rival Coinbase (COIN) and new exchanges in regulated markets such as Hong Kong and Singapore.

Bernstein says the crypto exchange has adequate funds to settle the $4.3 billion fine while maintaining healthy operations.

“Binance’s complete exit from the U.S would mean continued dominance of onshore and incumbent exchanges in the U.S.,” the authors wrote, noting that asset managers who have filed exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications are already working with exchanges such as Coinbase for prime broking and custody.

“In our view, this is the final straw before the establishment feels comfortable to approve a regulated bitcoin ETF,” they wrote.

Crypto services provider Matrixport says that while the plea deal does not include the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), it is a very favorable outcome for Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao and the company itself, and the firm will likely remain a top-three exchange in the near term.

“With this plea deal, the expectations for a spot bitcoin ETF might have increased to 100% as the industry will be forced to follow the rules that TradFi firms must follow,” wrote Markus Thielen, head of research at Matrixport, referring to traditional finance.

Crypto Traders Load Up on Bitcoin Topside Option Plays After Binance’s Guilty Plea

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We have seen interest in loading up more topside with strong demand for the March 2024 expiry calls, one OTC desk said.

Binance chief Changpeng “CZ” Zhao on Tuesday stepped down and pleaded guilty to violating U.S. anti-money laundering laws as part of a $4.3 billion settlement, in what may come across as the most significant blow to the crypto market since the collapse of Sam Bankman-Fried’s exchange FTX last year.

But that’s certainly different from how traders look at the events.

According to over-the-counter institutional cryptocurrency trading network Paradigm, the options market has increased activity in topside bitcoin call options in the aftermath of the Binance news, a sign of persistent bullish sentiment.

“In the options space, after the initial two-way flow, we have seen interest in loading up more topside with strong demand for the March 2024 expiry calls,” Patrick Chu, head of institutional sales coverage at Paradigm, told CoinDesk.

Data shared by market analyst Chang shows that early Wednesday, market participants traded 550 contracts of BTC $45,000 strike call option expiring in March 2024 on Deribit. Buyers, expecting a continued price rally in bitcoin in the coming months, paid a cumulative premium of $1.5 million for the bullish bets. On Deribit, one options contract represents one BTC.

A call option is a contract between a buyer and a seller to purchase the underlying asset at a preset price on or before a specific date. A call buyer is implicitly bullish on the market, while a put buyer is bearish.

Overall, both short-term and long-term calls continue to trade at a premium relative to puts, as evidenced by the positive call-put skews. It’s a sign the market doesn’t expect a significant fallout from Binance’s guilty plea.

The sentiment is that U.S. regulators have cleaned up the industry, setting the stage for approving the first U.S.-based exchange-traded fund that invests in cryptocurrency. The so-called spot-based ETF is expected to bring billions in investor money to the crypto market.

Bitcoin is currently trading above $36,500, according to CoinDesk Indices data, down 2% on-day.

Sam Altman Makes Dramatic Return as CEO of OpenAI Amid Employee Uproar

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In a surprising turn of events, Sam Altman is set to make a comeback as the CEO of OpenAI, just days after his abrupt removal triggered a revolt among employees.

The company announced the agreement in a post on X, stating that Altman will lead with a new initial board chaired by Bret Taylor, the former co-CEO of Salesforce. Other board members include Adam D’Angelo, CEO of Quora, and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers.

The announcement follows a period of uncertainty and negotiations over leadership and the strategic direction of OpenAI, raising questions about the pace of advancement in the AI industry. Altman, in his post on X, expressed anticipation about returning to OpenAI and emphasized building on the strong partnership with Microsoft, the company’s primary financial supporter.

The circumstances surrounding Altman’s departure and reappointment remain unclear. OpenAI cited Altman’s lack of “candor” with the board, leading to speculation and rumors. Sources familiar with the crisis revealed tensions between Altman, advocating for more aggressive AI development, and the original OpenAI board members, favoring a more cautious approach.

Initially, Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman were slated to join Microsoft to lead a new AI research division. However, the entire OpenAI staff, nearly in its entirety, threatened to leave for Microsoft unless the board resigned and Altman was reinstated as CEO. Emmett Shear was appointed interim CEO, but with Altman’s return, it remains uncertain how Shear’s role will be affected.

Both Altman and Brockman are now returning to OpenAI, marking a significant win for Microsoft and Altman. Altman will continue to lead the company he co-founded, supported by a theoretically more aligned board. Microsoft, having invested billions in OpenAI to advance its AI ambitions, gains increased influence over the company.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella expressed encouragement regarding the changes to the OpenAI board, considering it a crucial step towards more stable and effective governance. Altman’s vision of rapidly deploying and commercializing AI tools also appears to have prevailed, despite his public cautions about the risks associated with AI.

Altman, while publicly emphasizing responsible AI advancement, had been pushing internally to bring products to market swiftly and generate profits. Recent initiatives include OpenAI’s commitment to making ChatGPT-like tools accessible for customization and collaboration with Microsoft to integrate similar technology into Microsoft’s products. Additionally, talks were reportedly underway with Jony Ive, the iPhone designer, to secure $1 billion from SoftBank for an AI device intended to replace smartphones.

How has Vietnam improved its global ranking in English proficiency?

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Vietnam has demonstrated a noteworthy advancement in its global English proficiency ranking, securing the 58th position out of 113 non-native English-speaking countries, as reported by the Education First (EF) English Proficiency Index (EPI).

This Southeast Asian nation attained a score of 505 out of 800, marking a notable three-point increase from the previous year and surpassing the global average. This achievement places Vietnam in the “moderate proficiency” category, aligning with 32 other nations. In contrast, in 2021, the country fell into the “low proficiency” group with a score of 486.

Specifically focusing on the Red River Delta, particularly Hanoi, this region boasts the highest English proficiency in Vietnam, with men exhibiting superior performance compared to women.

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On a global scale, Vietnam secures the 7th position among 23 Asian countries and territories. Leading the continent, Singapore claims the second spot worldwide with a “very high proficiency” index. Notably, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Hong Kong are classified under the “high proficiency” category.

EF reports a slight dip in English proficiency on average in South and Southeast Asia, with India experiencing a gradual decline in its English proficiency levels over the years.

Shifting focus to Central Asia, English proficiency remains low and stable, accompanied by higher-than-average gender gaps favoring men in nearly every country within the region. In East Asia, there has been a notable decrease in adult English proficiency over the past four years.

On a global scale, the Netherlands maintains its prestigious top position, closely followed by Singapore, Austria, Denmark, and Norway.

The 2023 edition of the EPI was meticulously crafted by EF through the analysis of results obtained from 2.2 million adults who participated in its SET English tests last year.

Working from Paradise: A Guide to Digital Nomad Life in Vietnam

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In recent years, the rise of digital nomadism has transformed the traditional concept of work, allowing individuals to break free from the confines of conventional office space and explore the world while earning a living. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and affordable cost of living, Vietnam has emerged as an enticing destination for digital nomads seeking a perfect blend of work and adventure.

Navigating the Legalities

Visa Options

To legally work as a digital nomad in Vietnam, it’s important to understand the visa requirements. Vietnam offers various visa options, including tourist, business, and work visas. First, some choose to utilize the e-visa option, which is relatively easy and quick, with 90 days of maximum stay period, to get to know the country. The requirements are also simple: you only need your passport, visa application photo with the correct parameters, and a credit/debit card for payment.

Then, some digital nomads opt for business visas, which allow for more extended stays and can be renewed easily.

Work Permits

While a work permit might not be necessary for remote workers, staying informed about the latest regulations is crucial. Vietnamese authorities have been working to adapt to the rise of digital nomadism, and regulations may change, so it’s wise to check the latest requirements.

Choosing Vietnam as Your Digital Nomad Base

Vietnam’s Allure

Vietnam offers diverse experiences, from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay. The country is known for its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and a harmonious mix of modernity and tradition. The cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western countries, making it an attractive choice for digital nomads looking to stretch their budget without compromising on quality of life.

Tech Infrastructure

A crucial factor for digital nomads is a reliable and fast internet connection, and Vietnam doesn’t disappoint. Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi boast excellent internet infrastructure, with many coworking spaces and cafes offering high-speed Wi-Fi. This makes it easy for digital nomads to stay connected and productive.

Finding Your Digital Nomad Oasis

Top Digital Nomad Hubs

Vietnam has several cities that are particularly popular among digital nomads. Ho Chi Minh City, with its vibrant atmosphere and modern amenities, is a top choice. Da Nang, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe, is another favorite. Hanoi, the capital, combines a rich history with a thriving contemporary scene.

Coworking Spaces and Cafes

Vietnam’s major cities are home to numerous coworking spaces tailored to the needs of digital nomads. These spaces provide reliable internet, comfortable workstations, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Additionally, the country’s many coffee shops offer a unique and enjoyable work environment, often with a view.

Balancing Work and Play

Exploring Vietnam

One of the perks of being a digital nomad in Vietnam is the opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes. From trekking in Sapa to cruising along the Mekong Delta, there’s no shortage of adventures. The weekends can be spent discovering ancient temples, trying local delicacies, or simply relaxing on the beach.

Local Culture and Networking

Embracing the local culture enhances the digital nomad experience. Attend language classes, participate in cultural events, and connect with locals to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam. Networking with other digital nomads is also valuable, as it can lead to collaborations and friendships that enrich both your personal and professional life.

Vietnam, with its blend of affordability, culture, and connectivity, has become a haven for digital nomads seeking a balance between work and exploration. As the world embraces remote work, Vietnam stands out as a destination that not only welcomes digital nomads but also offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re working from a rooftop cafe in Ho Chi Minh City or taking a motorbike ride through the picturesque landscapes, Vietnam is a paradise for those who want to redefine the way they work and live.

Market Watch: Financial Market News Vietnam, November 22, 2023

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Foreign Exchange Market:

During the trading session on November 21st, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) listed the central exchange rate at 23,915 VND/USD, a decrease of 39 dong compared to the previous session. The immediate purchase rate remained at 23,400 VND/USD, while the immediate selling rate was listed at 25,060 VND/USD, a decrease of 50 dong compared to the ceiling exchange rate. In the Interbank market (IB), the closing rate dropped by an additional 45 dong to 24,135 VND/USD. Meanwhile, the free market rate slightly decreased on the buying side and remained unchanged on the selling side, trading at 24,560 VND/USD and 24,650 VND/USD respectively.

Interbank Currency Market:

On November 21st, the average bidding interest rate for Vietnamese Interbank Market (VNIB) VND decreased by 0.06 percentage points in the 1-month term and remained stable in shorter terms. The average bidding interest rate for VNIB USD slightly increased across all terms. Government Bond yields decreased in most terms, closing at: 3Y 1.70%; 5Y 1.60%; 7Y 2.15%; 10Y 2.48%; 15Y 2.70%.

Open Market Operations:

In recent trading sessions, the SBV auctioned 1,000 billion VND on the collateral channel for a 7-day term, maintaining the interest rate at 4.0%. There was no winning bid volume, and no SBV bonds were tendered. On November 21st, there were 850 billion VND of maturing SBV bonds, reducing the total supply to 95,599.8 billion VND.

Stock Market:

The Vietnam stock market saw a slight increase in recent trading sessions. The VN-Index increased by 6.8 points (+0.62%) to 1,110.46 points; the HNX-Index added 2.03 points (+0.89%) reaching 229.80 points; the UPCoM-Index rose slightly by 0.09 points (+0.10%) to 86.22 points. Market liquidity remained low, with a trading value of nearly 17,185 billion VND. Foreign investors continued to net buy with a value of 481 billion VND across all three exchanges.

International News:

The Federal Reserve (Fed) maintains a “cautious” monetary policy stance. FOMC officials continue to be concerned about persistent inflation. In the U.S. real estate market, existing home sales declined slightly in October but were up by 4.1% compared to the same period last year. Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England (BoE), highlighted inflation risks and warned about potential interest rate hikes.

Exchange Rates on November 21st:

USD = 0.917 EUR (-0.27% d/d)
USD = 0.798 GBP (-0.26% d/d)
GBP = 1.149 EUR (+0.53% d/d)

Business and Privatization Information:

In the first 10 months of 2023, no new privatized enterprises emerged. In October, there were no divestments. Specifically, the state divested from 4 enterprises worth 8.8 billion VND, realizing 19 billion VND. Up to October 2023, 49 enterprises have been authorized for restructuring under the government’s project.

International Financial Market Information:

The Fed’s October 31st – November 1st meeting minutes showed concerns about inflation and a decision to maintain a “cautious” monetary policy. The Bank of England Governor warned about inflation risks and the possibility of raising interest rates.

Existing home sales in the U.S. decreased slightly in October but remained higher compared to the same period last year.
Bank of England Governor emphasized inflation risks and warned about potential interest rate hikes.

Lam Dong publicly discloses violating tourism businesses

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Tourism and service businesses in Lam Dong, when identified as violating regulations, will be publicly disclosed on local information pages for residents and tourists to be informed.

On November 21, Ms. Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Lam Dong Province, stated that the provincial People’s Committee assigned the department to take the lead in coordinating with relevant departments and local authorities to establish an inspection team to review tourism and service businesses in the area.

Wildflower season in Lam Dong attracts tourists. Photo: Binh An.

This action was taken as Lam Dong Province assessed that there are still many limitations in state management of tourism. Spontaneous tourism businesses have emerged that do not meet the required conditions, leading to issues such as dishonest business practices, uncivilized behavior, and inadequate safety measures for tourists.

Therefore, the inspection team focuses on legal conditions for investment, construction, and operation, ensuring compliance with regulated standards for conditional business sectors, such as public order, fire prevention and fighting, food safety, and occupational safety and hygiene. Additionally, standards for employees, pricing registration, and public disclosure of establishments are also being examined.

According to Ms. Ngoc, the inspection process is carried out openly, transparently, and objectively. Depending on the severity and nature of violations, measures will be taken in accordance with regulations. Specifically, if safety conditions are not met, the operation of the service will be decisively suspended until the necessary conditions are fulfilled.

Tourist area where 4 foreign tourists died in Lam Dong. Photo: VL.

In addition, the inter-agency team will create records and publicly disclose information about tourism and service businesses on the provincial electronic portal, the electronic information page of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the electronic information page of the Provincial Center for Investment Promotion, smart tourism applications, and other appropriate forms. This aims to facilitate tourists in choosing quality and reputable tourism businesses.

Recently, some tourists in Lam Dong have encountered incidents. Most recently, on the morning of October 26, a female South Korean tourist fell to her death while taking photos on a rocky outcrop at Langbiang Mountain. After this incident, the enterprise announced the suspension of all sightseeing activities at Langbiang tourist area until further notice.

Earlier, on October 24, unexpected floods occurred at the stream in the Cu Lan Village tourist area in Lac Duong district, causing the death of four South Korean tourists. The People’s Committee of Lam Dong Province has requested localities and companies to strengthen the management and review of adventure tourism and outdoor activities to ensure the safety of tourists.

@Vietnamnet

Can Tho – Phu Quoc flight route temporarily suspended

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After the sole airline withdrew, the Can Tho – Phu Quoc route has ceased operations as no other airline has taken up the service.

On November 20th, Mr. Nguyen Minh Dong, Director of Phu Quoc International Airport, confirmed that the Can Tho – Phu Quoc route is currently temporarily suspended.

The Phu Quoc – Can Tho route is empty

Bamboo Airways was the only airline operating direct flights from Can Tho to Phu Quoc with a frequency of one flight per day.

However, in early November, the airline withdrew from a series of domestic and international routes, including the Can Tho – Phu Quoc route.

A Phu Quoc – Can Tho flight of Bamboo Airways has few passengers

According to Mr. Dong, after Bamboo Airways withdrew, no other airline has stepped in to operate the Can Tho – Phu Quoc route.

@Cafef

Proposal for HCMC leaders to meet with real estate buyers

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The Vietnam Tourism Real Estate Association (VnTPA) has sent a document to Mr. Phan Van Mai, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, proposing to organize a meeting between the city’s leadership and real estate investors, who are property buyers.

According to VnTPA, through observations, it has been noticed that over the years, both the Central and local governments have organized numerous conferences to rescue the real estate industry. However, the participants in these conferences have predominantly been sellers, banks, and project investors, rather than the ultimate buyers of real estate.

During these meetings, the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association has also only invited sellers and provided support to them. Meanwhile, the market is still blocked mainly due to a lack of buying power, as final investors have lost confidence and faced too many risks with unsuitable products.

Proposing the leaders of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee to meet with real estate buyers

Mr. Thanh Thanh Vu, Chairman of VnTPA, believes that Ho Chi Minh City should organize a conference exclusively involving final investors and the city’s leadership to clearly hear their feedback. This approach aims to find comprehensive solutions to regain investor confidence and restore market purchasing power.

Mr. Thanh Thanh Vu also affirmed that VnTPA, with its extensive network involving both sellers and buyers, will support the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City in organizing this crucial conference. To avoid the situation where sellers send their employees to attend the conference to speak favorably for them, VnTPA will manage registrations and carefully select attendees who are genuine final investors. “We will support the organizational work, invite investor representatives to run the conference. If this conference is held at the end of the year, it will warm the hearts of investors. They will feel cared for, enjoy a happy Tet (Lunar New Year), and develop trust in the city’s government,” stated Mr. Vu.

It is known that VnTPA was established in 2009 and currently has over 20,000 members, including leaders of businesses operating in and outside the country, as well as investors in the real estate, tourism, and related sectors. VnTPA claims to have contributed to attracting billions of dollars in foreign investment into Vietnam in the fields of tourism real estate and related industries.

@Thanhnien.vn

Hanoi put into operation an additional City Tour route to serve tourists

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Hanoi Passenger Bus Joint Stock Company has recently launched a new and exciting City Tour 03 “The Sights of Thang Long” route that has already started operating in Hanoi on November 18, 2023. This new route uses a small, open-roof, single-deck bus with a capacity of 20 seats, equipped with a multilingual automatic voiceover system that provides information about the history and destinations of the landscapes where the route passes through. This is a great initiative for both domestic and foreign tourists who are interested in exploring historical relics and famous landscapes in the heart of the Old Quarter and Hanoi Capital.

Information on route “The Sights of Thang Long”

According to a representative of Hanoi Passenger Bus Joint Stock Company, this new City Tour 03 is a non-subsidized bus route that reaches untapped tourist destinations in Hanoi, particularly in small streets where large-capacity buses cannot go through. To make the experience more flexible for tourists, the operator offers a variety of ticket prices and experience time frames, allowing tourists to visit a tourist destination and then pick up the car later to meet their exploration needs.

Previously, Hanoi had two City Tour routes with large capacity, which were often crowded on weekends, making it difficult for tourists to experience the City’s beauty. However, with this new initiative, tourists have more options to visit places they have never been to before.