Ho Chi Minh City has a new attraction that is delighting families, food lovers, and social media users alike: a café where guests can cook real meals in miniature kitchens. In just over a month since opening, the concept has gone viral, drawing crowds every weekend eager for a hands-on, playful culinary experience.
From Toy Kitchens to Real Cooking
The café’s signature twist is simple but magical: it turns the nostalgic idea of “playing with toy kitchens” into a genuine cooking experience. Instead of plastic imitation ingredients, guests handle real food—meat, eggs, vegetables—and cook over working mini stoves.
Every tool, from pots and pans to chopping boards and utensils, is carefully scaled down, allowing visitors to prepare, season, and cook their dishes exactly as in a full-size kitchen. Once the dish is ready, guests can enjoy the fruits of their own labor, hot and fresh.
Nguyen Thi Thai Hien, 40, the café owner, explained: “This little kitchen isn’t just a business—it’s a childhood dream come true. As a child, I wished I had a toy kitchen to play with. Now, anyone can step in and relive that sense of wonder, regardless of age.”
A One-Hour Journey Back to Childhood
Each visitor gets an hour to transform into a chef. From prepping ingredients to plating the finished meal, the experience emphasizes tactile engagement and creativity. For parents and children alike, it’s an opportunity to bond over shared tasks, laughter, and the joy of cooking together.
Visitors report that the tiny kitchen is surprisingly immersive. “I brought my child here thinking it would be just for kids,” said Nhat Anh, 38. “But I got swept up too—I couldn’t stop smiling while cooking!”
Children are equally enchanted. Seven-year-old An Nhien shared: “Everything is so tiny and cute. I can cook like my mom at home, and then eat it. It’s way more fun than just playing with toy food.”
More Than a Trendy Café
The café has become more than a social media sensation or a quirky Instagram backdrop. It’s a space where families step away from screens, reconnect, and create lasting memories. Guests leave with a sense of nostalgia, accomplishment, and shared joy.
Visitor Information
Location: Trieu Café, 430A Nguyen Xi, Binh Loi Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Whether you’re a foodie, parent, or traveler seeking a unique experience in Ho Chi Minh City, this miniature kitchen café offers a playful yet authentic taste of Vietnamese culinary culture.
NINH BINH, Vietnam – November 11 (Vietnam Insider) — A private high school in northern Vietnam has dismissed its chairman after a series of videos showing him engaging in intimate behavior with multiple women inside his office went viral, sparking public outrage and calls for accountability in the education sector.
According to the Ninh Binh Department of Education and Training, Mr. Nguyễn Văn Đạt, Chairman of the School Council at Tô Hiến Thành High School in Hải Hậu commune, has been removed from his position and will be terminated to “stabilize internal order and protect the school’s reputation.”
Viral Video Sparks Public Outrage
The scandal erupted after short clips circulated widely on social media platforms over the weekend, showing a man — later confirmed to be Nguyễn Văn Đạt — engaging in inappropriate conduct with several women in what appeared to be his school office.
The footage, reportedly recorded between 2024 and early 2025, quickly went viral on TikTok, Facebook, and local forums, drawing intense backlash from parents, teachers, and the public.
Many viewers condemned the videos as “offensive and unacceptable in an educational environment,” with some demanding stronger disciplinary measures to preserve moral standards in schools.
Authorities Step In
In a statement on Monday afternoon, Nguyễn Văn Thuận, Deputy Director of the Ninh Binh Department of Education and Training, said the school’s council had convened and agreed to dismiss Mr. Đạt pending official documentation.
“The decision aims to ensure the stability of teaching and learning activities and to protect the institution’s integrity,” Mr. Thuận said, adding that the department has also requested local police to investigate those spreading false claims online labeling Mr. Đạt as the school’s principal or a teacher.
Local authorities have instructed the school to stabilize the psychological well-being of its staff and students, ensuring that “daily operations continue as normal.”
Not a Principal, But a Powerful Figure
Contrary to early rumors, Mr. Đạt was not the school’s principal, but rather the Chairman of the Board of Trustees — a powerful governance position overseeing the school’s strategic direction, personnel planning, and investment matters.
Under Vietnam’s Ministry of Education Circular No. 40/2021, a private school’s board chairman holds significant influence, including the authority to approve leadership appointments and oversee academic operations.
Tô Hiến Thành High School, a private institution with around 900 students, lists Mr. Đạt as a frequent representative in admissions, career fairs, and recruitment activities, according to its official fanpage.
Damage Control and Reputation Fallout
The Department of Education emphasized that while the behavior captured in the videos occurred outside the school’s official governance structure, the scandal had severely tarnished the image of educators in the province.
“This incident has caused serious reputational damage to the teaching profession,” Deputy Director Thuận said.
The department urged schools across Ninh Binh to tighten ethical training and digital conduct guidelines for staff, warning that “private schools, in particular, must maintain professionalism to retain public trust.”
A Broader Lesson for Vietnam’s Private Education Sector
The case has reignited discussions about ethics, digital privacy, and accountability within Vietnam’s growing network of private schools. Experts say that as the sector expands, so does the need for clear governance mechanisms to handle misconduct among senior figures.
“Private schools are not exempt from moral standards,” one education analyst commented. “The public expects the same integrity from their leaders — especially when those leaders shape the next generation.”
The dismissal of Nguyễn Văn Đạt, following viral videos showing “inappropriate relations” inside a high school office, underscores how personal scandals can quickly escalate into institutional crises in Vietnam’s education system. For private schools like Tô Hiến Thành, the episode serves as a sharp reminder that moral conduct remains inseparable from public trust — both in the classroom and beyond.
HANOI, Nov 11 (Vietnam Insider) — A small hotel in central Hanoi has become the target of a massive online backlash after a viral TikTok video showed a guest being refused check-in at 2 a.m., despite having fully prepaid for her stay.
Within hours, Royal Hotel (19 Hang Chao Street) was flooded with tens of thousands of one-star reviews on Google Maps — a digital “storm” that turned into one of the most talked-about customer service scandals of the year.
The 2 A.M. Check-In That Sparked a Firestorm
The controversy began when TikTok user Q., a female traveler, shared a video recounting her experience. She said she had booked a room for three nights (Nov 7–9) and transferred 100% of the payment upfront, as required by the booking app.
However, due to unexpected travel delays, she arrived at 2 a.m. on Nov 9 — only to be denied check-in by the hotel’s front desk staff, who told her she was “too late” and that her room was no longer available. The receptionist allegedly explained that since she hadn’t called ahead, the hotel assumed she was a no-show and released the room to other guests.
Unable to reach an agreement, the traveler was left stranded in the middle of the night, later posting the story online out of frustration.
Viral Outrage: “You Paid, They Sold Your Room”
The video quickly went viral across Vietnamese social media, attracting widespread outrage. Many commenters accused the hotel of violating basic hospitality norms, arguing that a fully paid booking guarantees the room, regardless of arrival time — especially if the guest had not explicitly canceled.
By Monday afternoon (Nov 11), Royal Hotel’s Google Maps listing had been bombarded with nearly 31,500 reviews, dragging its average rating down to a mere 1.0 star — a catastrophic blow for any hospitality business.
Social media users called the incident a “lesson in customer care”, criticizing the hotel for its lack of flexibility and empathy. Others noted that the damage might have been caused by one untrained employee rather than official policy.
“This may not reflect the hotel’s management stance, but rather poor crisis handling by the staff,” said the CEO of a major Hanoi-based travel company. “Still, the damage to the brand is real — and it’s a stark reminder that in the age of social media, one bad interaction can spiral out of control overnight.”
A Cautionary Tale for Vietnam’s Tourism Industry
The Royal Hotel incident underscores how fragile brand reputation has become in Vietnam’s fast-growing hospitality market, where customer reviews can make or break small hotels.
As Vietnam continues to welcome record numbers of international visitors, industry experts are urging hotel operators to improve staff training, implement 24-hour guest communication policies, and adopt real-time booking management systems to prevent similar incidents.
“Professionalism and responsiveness are now key to survival,” said one tourism analyst. “In an age where a single TikTok post can reach millions, every front-desk decision counts.”
The “2 A.M. check-in scandal” at Hanoi’s Royal Hotel has become a viral case study in customer service failure and online reputation risk. For Vietnam’s hospitality industry, it’s a timely wake-up call: in the era of social media, one dissatisfied guest can turn into 30,000 angry reviews — overnight.
HANOI, Nov 11 (Vietnam Insider) — Northern Vietnam is expected to experience its strongest cold spell since the start of winter around November 16–17, with temperatures plunging sharply across the region, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.
Meteorologists warn that the cold air mass — the most intense of the 2025–2026 winter so far — will bring temperatures below 16°C in lowlands, below 13°C in mid-mountain areas, and under 5°C in high-altitude regions such as Sa Pa and Mau Son.
Cold Air Builds Ahead of Major Temperature Drop
From the night of November 10, weak cold fronts have already begun to move southward, ending weeks of humid and foggy weather across the North. Between now and November 15, forecasters expect intermittent weak reinforcements of cold air, combined with northerly and northwesterly winds at altitudes of 1,500–5,000 meters, keeping skies mostly clear and sunny before the major cold front arrives.
However, by November 16, a powerful surge of polar air will sweep through, marking a sharp transition to true winter conditions.
Lowland areas (Hanoi, Hai Phong, Nam Dinh): daytime highs around 20°C, night lows 13–15°C
Mid-mountain regions (Ha Giang, Son La, Lao Cai): lows 8–12°C
High mountains (Sa Pa, Mau Son, Sin Ho): lows may dip to 4–5°C
U.S.-based weather service AccuWeather forecasts Hanoi’s temperature range will fall from 17–27°C this week to 12–23°C next week, while Sa Pa could drop to 5°C at night.
Central Vietnam to Feel Chill Next
The Central region, from Thanh Hoa to Ha Tinh, will begin feeling the effects of the cold air mass on November 17, with temperatures dropping below 16°C, and mountainous areas below 13°C.
This marks the fifth cold front to affect Northern Vietnam in just over a month. The last strong one on October 19 saw Mau Son (Lang Son) dip to 9°C, while Tam Dao (Phu Tho) and Sin Ho (Lai Chau) recorded lows near 12°C.
Experts: Early and Harsher Winter Due to La Niña
According to Dr. Nguyen Binh Phong of the Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam’s cold season is arriving earlier and stronger than average, largely due to the ongoing La Niña phenomenon, which typically brings cooler and wetter conditions to East and Southeast Asia.
“La Niña is expected to persist into early 2026,” Dr. Phong said. “That means this winter — and especially the period from December 2025 to February 2026 — could see more frequent and intense cold waves compared to last year.”
More Cold Fronts Ahead
Between November and December 2025, cold air is forecast to increase in both frequency and strength. Average monthly temperatures in the northeast region, as well as Thanh Hoa to Da Nang and eastern Quang Ngai, are projected to be 0.5–1°C below the multi-year average, while other regions may see temperatures around 0.5°C lower.
Vietnam’s north is heading into its coldest period yet this season, with frost likely in mountain towns like Sa Pa and Mau Son. Forecasters attribute the early, harsh onset of winter to La Niña, which may prolong cooler conditions well into early 2026 — signaling a colder, longer winter for much of the country.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Nov 11 (Vietnam Insider) — Vietnam’s stock market snapped a multi-day losing streak on Monday, with the VN-Index climbing 13.07 points (+0.83%) to close at 1,593.61, as investor sentiment turned upbeat following new signals from FTSE Russell about Vietnam’s potential market status upgrade.
The rally was broad-based, led by large-cap and retail stocks, but trading liquidity remained subdued — a sign that many investors are still cautious after recent volatility. Total transaction value on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) reached just under VND 20 trillion (USD 790 million), below the daily average for November.
Blue-Chip Stocks Lead Market Comeback
After several sessions of declines, the market opened firmly in the green and maintained momentum throughout the day. Gains were powered by heavyweight names including: Vingroup (VHM, VIC) — leading the rebound after heavy losses last week; Brokerage firms such as SSI and VIX, reflecting renewed risk appetite; Retail and consumer plays like Masan Group (MSN), Mobile World (MWG), and Phu Nhuan Jewelry (PNJ), which benefitted from stronger domestic consumption outlooks.
Despite the positive close, analysts cautioned that low liquidity shows “recovery confidence is still fragile.” Investors appear to be waiting for more definitive news on foreign capital inflows and macroeconomic stability before committing to new positions.
FTSE Russell: Vietnam Moves Closer to “Emerging Market” Status
Adding to the day’s optimism, FTSE Russell released an update outlining progress in its ongoing evaluation of Vietnam’s potential upgrade from a Frontier Market to a Secondary Emerging Market — a change that could attract billions in new foreign investment.
According to FTSE’s latest report, 28 Vietnamese stocks currently meet the FTSE Global All Cap Index screening criteria, including major names such as HPG, VCB, VIC, VHM, MSN, VNM, SAB, SSI, VRE, VND, and VJC.
The list, based on data as of December 31, 2024, may be adjusted ahead of the official semi-annual review scheduled for September 2026. If approved, the upgrade would mark a major milestone in Vietnam’s capital market development — aligning it more closely with regional peers like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Market analysts noted that the FTSE progress report helped restore short-term sentiment, especially among foreign investors tracking Vietnam’s inclusion potential in global indices.
Foreign Investors Ease Selling, Turn Net Buyers in Key Blue Chips
After several sessions of heavy net selling, foreign investors significantly slowed their divestments, with total net outflows narrowing to just VND 70 billion (USD 2.8 million) — a sharp improvement from the previous week’s multi-hundred-billion totals.
Notably, Vingroup (VIC) and Hoa Phat Group (HPG) were among the most actively purchased stocks, attracting VND 153 billion and VND 105 billion in net foreign inflows, respectively.
This buying pattern suggests foreign funds are selectively positioning in blue-chip counters expected to benefit from both earnings recovery and index inclusion prospects.
Outlook: Relief Rally or Trend Reversal?
While Monday’s rebound provided much-needed relief, analysts remain cautious, pointing out that sustainable recovery will depend on improving liquidity and continued foreign inflows.
“With the VN-Index still below its 1,600 resistance zone, investors are watching whether buying momentum can build through mid-November,” one brokerage strategist said. “The FTSE upgrade story could serve as a medium-term catalyst, but domestic cash flow remains the key driver.”
Vietnam’s equity market showed its first solid rebound in days, buoyed by blue-chip gains and optimism over an upcoming FTSE Russell market upgrade. However, thin liquidity and cautious sentiment suggest the recovery remains tentative — with investors awaiting stronger signals of sustained institutional support and macroeconomic clarity.
In 2026, global manufacturing continues to evolve faster than ever. As companies look to balance cost efficiency, flexibility, and resilience, outsourcing manufacturing has become a cornerstone strategy for scaling production. This approach allows brands to delegate production to specialized partners across Asia, where the combination of lower costs, skilled labor, and established supplier networks enables faster and more efficient market response.
From electronics assembly and furniture production to metal fabrication and garments, the manufacturing outsourcing trend is reshaping how global supply chains operate. Instead of investing heavily in owned factories, companies are leveraging contract and OEM/ODM manufacturers to ramp up capacity, reduce overhead, and maintain high-quality standards—all without losing control of production visibility.
From Sourcing to Contract Manufacturing: The Next Step in Supply Chain
Many businesses start by sourcing finished goods or components from Asia. However, as operations expand, sourcing alone often becomes insufficient to meet growing demand or quality consistency. This is where outsourcing manufacturing plays a vital role.
Unlike sourcing, which focuses on purchasing, manufacturing outsourcing involves deeper collaboration. It means transferring parts of the production process, design, assembly, or even packaging, to a trusted manufacturer who becomes an operational extension of your business. This model allows companies to:
Scale quickly without new capital investment.
Adapt production volume to market changes or seasonal peaks.
Leverage technical expertise from established Asian factories.
Optimize costs through labor, logistics, and materials savings.
The transition from sourcing to outsourcing marks a shift from transactional buying to strategic partnership building, a critical step for brands aiming for long-term competitiveness in global trade.
Join Guillaume Rondan (MoveToAsia) and Pietro Karjalainen (FVSource) in a rich discussion revealed on YouTube. They chart the evolution of manufacturing outsourcing in Asia, highlighting real-world factory tours, metal-fabrication lines, furniture-export hubs, and electronics/PCB assembly in Vietnam.
Discover how the China+1 strategy is being put into action, how Vietnamese factories are scaling production with precision, and what “true” outsourcing (not just sourcing) looks like in 2026. Whether you’re seeking to launch your first overseas line or optimize an established supply chain, this video offers actionable insights to move your business forward.
FVSource’s White Paper “Manufacturing in Vietnam in 2026” explores these realities, from factory benchmarking and cost structures to how to implement an efficient outsourced manufacturing strategy in Vietnam in 2026.
The China+1 Strategy and the Rise of Vietnam Outsourced Manufacturing
A Regional Shift Toward Strategic Contract Manufacturing
Across Asia, several manufacturing hubs are emerging as strong alternatives to China. Vietnam, in particular, has distinguished itself as one of the most dynamic examples, combining cost efficiency, a skilled workforce, and rapidly growing industrial capabilities. While Thailand continues to excel in automotive and electronics, and Malaysia in semiconductors, Vietnam’s rise illustrates how the region is collectively redefining manufacturing efficiency through smarter outsourcing strategies.
For decades, China has been the world’s manufacturing powerhouse. Rising labor costs, regulatory complexities, and geopolitical uncertainties, however, have prompted many companies to diversify their production bases. This shift gave rise to the China+1 strategy, in which businesses maintain some operations in China while expanding into other Asian countries to mitigate supply chain risks.
Within this evolving landscape, Vietnam stands out as one of the most promising destinations for outsourcing manufacturing, offering a compelling combination of affordability, expertise, and operational flexibility.
Why Vietnam?
Competitive costs: Vietnam offers a lower labor cost base compared to China while maintaining strong productivity levels.
Skilled workforce: Decades of foreign investment have built a capable labor force familiar with global production standards.
Strong export infrastructure: Ports in Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, and Da Nang connect efficiently with the U.S., Europe, and Asia-Pacific markets.
Diverse manufacturing sectors: From furniture and garments to electronics and metal structures, Vietnam’s manufacturing industry is rapidly diversifying.
Government support: Pro-business policies, free trade agreements, and foreign investment incentives continue to attract global manufacturers.
Vietnam outsourcing allows companies to balance cost savings with operational flexibility, making it a strategic alternative, not just a backup, to Chinese manufacturing.
Optimizing Cost Structures Through Outsourcing Manufacturing in Asia
One of the main reasons companies turn to manufacturing outsourcing in Asia is cost efficiency. However, true cost structure optimization involves more than just finding the lowest quote; it’s about managing every stage of the value chain strategically.
Here are the key components of cost optimization in outsourcing:
Production cost efficiency: Partnering with factories that have optimized production lines and high automation levels helps reduce per-unit cost.
Economies of scale: Contract manufacturers can consolidate orders from multiple clients, lowering raw material and logistics expenses.
Reduced fixed overhead: Instead of building and maintaining your own factory, outsourcing converts fixed costs (machinery, rent, labor) into variable costs.
Supply chain agility: Outsourcing partners across Asia can adapt faster to order changes, minimizing waste and overproduction.
Lead time management: Proximity to ports and efficient production scheduling reduce waiting times and ensure on-time delivery.
Smart outsourcing doesn’t simply shift manufacturing; it redesigns how cost and efficiency interact within your business model.
Building an Efficient and Reliable Asia Supply Chain
Outsourcing manufacturing requires more than signing a production contract; it involves building a resilient Asia supply chain. The most successful companies approach this process strategically:
Factory selection: Conduct audits to verify technical capacity, certifications, and compliance with international standards.
On-site presence: Having a local team or working with an agency like MoveToAsia or FVSource ensures real-time communication and production control.
Multi-tier partnerships: Work with both primary manufacturers and subcontractors to manage production flexibility.
Quality assurance: Implement third-party quality control to monitor output, perform inspections, and ensure consistency across batches.
Transparent logistics: Understand all shipping, customs, and hidden logistics costs to avoid surprises that erode margins.
Asia’s supply chain network is vast, but navigating it effectively requires expertise and local experience. Companies that invest in partnerships, not just transactions, are the ones that scale sustainably.
Vietnam’s Role in the Future of Global Manufacturing in Asia
Vietnam’s rise in the outsourcing landscape is not a temporary trend, it represents a long-term structural shift in Asia. As production costs in traditional hubs continue to increase, and as Western companies prioritize supply chain resilience, Vietnam outsourcing will remain at the heart of regional manufacturing strategies.
Industries leading the growth include:
Electronics and PCB assembly: Vietnam’s electronics export value in 2024 (~US$134.5 billion) is well above Thailand (~US$51 billion) and reaching into Malaysia’s range (~US$121 billion). This shows Vietnam has achieved a significant scale in the manufacturing/export of electronics.
Furniture and home décor: Key markets such as the U.S., EU, and Japan dominate demand, and Vietnam is ranked second in the U.S. market after China.
Garments and workwear: Earlier, for January–May 2024, Vietnam had already surpassed China in the export market‑share of textiles & garments to the U.S. market. Vietnam is no longer simply a secondary supplier; it is becoming a leader in apparel exports to major markets such as the U.S.
Metal fabrication and steel structures: Vietnam is not only a location for low‑cost labour‑intensive sectors, but is building capacity in higher‑value industrial & construction‑material sectors, making it increasingly relevant for sectors like steel structures, metal fabrication, and turnkey manufacturing for industrial clients.
The government’s continued investment in industrial zones, logistics, and renewable energy further strengthens Vietnam’s appeal as a reliable outsourcing destination.
Looking Ahead: Asia Outsourced Manufacturing in 2026 and Beyond
By 2026, outsourcing manufacturing in Asia will become even more data-driven, transparent, and sustainability-focused. Companies will increasingly rely on digital tools for supplier monitoring, quality tracking, and logistics management.
At the same time, global brands will move from single-country dependence to multi-country production ecosystems, leveraging the unique advantages of Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and India.
FVSource’s White Paper “Manufacturing in Vietnam in 2026” offers field-based analysis and practical frameworks for large SME and MNC seeking for outsourced manufacturing capabilities.
For companies considering outsourcing or expanding their supply chains, the key is to focus on partnerships, flexibility, and quality assurance—not just short-term cost savings. Whether you’re a startup scaling your first production line or a multinational optimizing capacity, understanding how to implement outsourcing strategically will define your competitiveness in the coming decade.
Conclusion
Outsourcing manufacturing in Asia is no longer just a cost-cutting measure, it’s a pathway to global competitiveness. By combining Vietnam outsourcing opportunities with smart cost structure optimization and resilient Asia supply chain strategies, companies can scale efficiently and sustainably in 2026 and beyond.
As the global economy evolves, those who master outsourcing will not only survive supply chain disruptions—they’ll lead the next generation of global manufacturing.
Celebrated on November 11, Singles’ Day began as a lighthearted occasion to embrace singlehood – a day to enjoy one’s own company, spend time with friends, or simply treat oneself.
Over the years, it has evolved into a global moment that celebrates self-love and independence in all its forms. In the same spirit of celebrating one’s own journey, solo travel is rising as one of the most fulfilling ways to recharge and reconnect.
According to Booking.com’s Travel Trends 2025, 67%* of Vietnamese travellers planning to travel alone in 2025 to relax and 50% seeking solo journeys to enjoy nature. As the world’s leading traveller platform Booking.com has curated a list of the perfect destinations for every type of solo traveller – places where travelling alone means unlocking the ultimate freedom to connect with oneself and the world on one’s own terms. Solo travellers can easily search, book and manage their accommodations, flights and specially curated attractions directly on Booking.com.
Note to editors: The list below is arranged in alphabet order and does not imply any ranking.
With 42% of Vietnamese travellers planning a solo trip abroad, Bangkok is often the perfect first stop, especially for those heading overseas alone for the very first time. Thailand’s visa-free entry for Vietnamese visitors, cultural similarities, and short travel distance make it a convenient and reassuring choice before diving into the city’s vibrant energy. While a sprawling city, Bangkok is surprisingly convenient to explore thanks to its BTS Skytrain and MRT network, and many popular landmarks are just a short ride apart – a big plus for solo travellers to move around easily on their own and keep travel costs more affordable. For those fancying something a bit more energetic and lively, experience the city’s nightlife with clubs like RCA and Havana Social, or slow the pace with a Chao Phraya dinner cruise, complete with music and city lights. Alongside the modern appeal, solo travellers can also dive into Bangkok’s cultural past with a visit to Wat Khaek fresh market to discover local herbs and spices, participants then learn to cook Thai favorites like Tom Yum Kung, Pad Thai and mango sticky rice.
From dazzling skylines to endless things to do, big cities hold a strong pull for solo travellers. In fact, 45% of Vietnamese travellers say they want their next solo trip to be to a large city, and Tokyo is one of the most perfect matches. From taking in the city’s breathtaking views at Tokyo Tower to soaking up the vibrant atmosphere at Harajuku and enjoying cherry blossoms from a sightseeing bus tour, or immersing in the city’s rich culture at a samurai sword-handling experience, there is never a dull moment.
The city where tradition meets modernity, Singapore is the perfect destination for solo travellers seeking a vibrant, safe and unforgettable escape. Days feel endless as solo travellers can play tourist with must-sees like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, or the Night Safari, before switching gears at night to explore hawker centers for iconic dishes like chicken rice or chili crab, and finish a night with a sip of cocktails from rooftop bars with skyline views. For those who want to embrace their solo, main-character energy, a ticket to experience multiple attractions at one of the world’s best airports – Changi Airport – offers the perfect highlight. Alternatively, solo travellers looking to meet new people while discovering hidden sides of the city can join a neighborhood walking tour through Chinatown, Kampong Glam or Little India for the perfect blend of culture and exploration.
In 2025, survey results show that 62% of Vietnamese travellers plan to take a solo domestic trip, 50% aim to connect with nature, while 33% want to explore a small town – making Phu Quoc an ideal destination that perfectly encapsulates these three desires. This “jewel of Vietnam” offers stunning natural beauty year-round and a small-town charm that is lively yet peaceful, perfect for solo travellers. Here, you can enjoy unique experiences such as paddling along Cua Can River on a kayak, visiting a bee farm to learn about honeybees, joining a night squid fishing and watching sunset, or simply relaxing on pristine white-sand beaches. For a truly immersive experience, try the island-hopping tour with snorkeling. This excursion allows you to visit three islands in the An Thoi archipelago, swim and snorkel in clear waters and enjoy a tasty lunch served right on the boat. A trip to Phu Quoc at the end of the year is a wonderful way to tick off your bucket list while recharging for the year ahead.
UOB Upgrade Fuels Investor Frenzy as Exports Defy US Tariffs and Manufacturing Roars
Singapore’s UOB Bank just handed global investors a golden ticket: Vietnam’s 2025 GDP forecast jumps to 7.7%, cementing its crown as ASEAN’s unstoppable growth engine—even as Trump-era tariffs loom and the world braces for trade wars that could shave billions off emerging markets.
The revision from 7.5% follows a blistering Q3 expansion of 8.23% year-on-year, smashing Bloomberg’s 7.2% consensus and UOB’s own 7.6% call, with nine-month growth hitting 7.85%. Exports exploded 16%, including a 27.7% surge to the U.S. despite July’s 20% tariffs on Vietnamese goods and 40% on suspected transshipments from China. Industrial production climbed 10.8%, proving Vietnam’s factory floor is now the region’s most potent weapon against global slowdowns—outpacing Indonesia’s resource-reliant bounce and Thailand’s tourism trap.
“Vietnam’s performance remains remarkable under U.S. tariff pressure,” said Suan Teck Kin, UOB’s Head of Global Economics & Market Research, highlighting manufacturing’s shift to higher-value electronics, smartphones, and furniture that now dominate 80% of America-bound shipments worth over USD 120 billion annually. Yet the bank warns Q4 must deliver 7.2% to hit the upgraded mark, while the government’s 8.3–8.5% moonshot demands an improbable 9.7–10.5% sprint—challenging amid front-loaded U.S. orders drying up and consumer prices rising stateside.
Monetary tightrope adds intrigue: September inflation ticked to 3.38%, core to 3.2%, leaving the State Bank of Vietnam no room for cuts as the dong hovers near record lows at 26,436 per dollar—down 3.55% year-to-date, Asia’s second-weakest after the rupee. UOB sees gradual stabilization toward 26,100 by late 2026, but with exports at 83% of GDP and America absorbing 30%, any escalation in Washington could trigger a sharper currency slide that echoes 2018’s trade-war volatility.
Regionally, Vietnam towers: UOB pegs it above 7% versus Indonesia’s 5%, Malaysia’s 4.6–5.3%, Singapore’s 3.5%, and Thailand’s 2–3%. This isn’t luck—it’s supply-chain supremacy drawing billions from Apple, Samsung, and Intel, fueling a push to double per-capita GDP from USD 4,000 to USD 8,500 by 2030 through logistics mega-projects and digital leaps.
Here’s the debate that will rage across Singapore trading floors and Hanoi boardrooms: Vietnam just proved tariffs are speed bumps, not walls—forcing multinationals to double down on the only ASEAN hub still delivering 7%+ growth without commodity crutches. Savvy funds are piling into VinGroup bonds and factory REITs before FDI floods hit USD 40 billion next year. Ignore the noise—Vietnam isn’t the next China; it’s the upgraded version global CEOs can’t afford to miss. Load up now, or watch from the sidelines as ASEAN’s tiger laps the pack again?
HO CHI MINH CITY, Nov 10 (Vietnam Insider) — Vietnam’s stock market closed sharply lower on Monday, with red dominating across nearly every sector as the VN-Index fell 18.56 points, or 1.16%, to 1,580.54, marking another session of downward pressure and investor caution.
The HNX-Index also slipped 0.74% to 258.18, extending the losing streak amid persistent foreign selling and weakening sentiment in large-cap stocks.
Market breadth remained deeply negative, with 432 decliners versus 248 gainers, while the VN30 basket — which tracks the 30 largest stocks — saw 21 losers and only six gainers.
Afternoon Reversal: Buyers Faded, Sellers Took Over
Although the VN-Index briefly recovered above its reference point early in the afternoon, renewed selling pressure quickly erased gains, driving the benchmark to close at its session low. Vinhomes (VHM), FPT, Vietcombank (VCB), and VietinBank (CTG) were the biggest drags, collectively shaving 8.4 points off the index.
On the upside, Hoa Phat Group (HPG), Techcombank (TCB), SSI Securities, and Bao Viet Holdings (BVH) managed modest gains, contributing about 1.8 points to the index.
Trading volume fell from the previous session, with 656 million shares changing hands, worth VND 18.8 trillion (USD 740 million) on the HOSE. The HNX saw 72.5 million shares traded, valued at VND 1.5 trillion (USD 60 million).
Sector Breakdown: Technology Takes the Hardest Hit
Selling pressure hit most sectors, with information technology leading the downturn — plunging 4.49% as heavyweights like FPT (-4.75%), CMG (-3.09%), and DLG (-4.14%) tumbled.
The industrial and real estate sectors followed, down 2.06% and 1.87%, respectively. Notable losers included GEX (-6.94%), VHM (-5.54%), VRE (-4.94%), DXG (-3.44%), and KDH (-1.54%).
Even traditionally defensive sectors such as finance and energy weakened, shedding 0.55% and 1.28%.
In stark contrast, media and consumer services stood out as the only green sector, edging up 0.48% thanks to gains in Masan Consumer (MCH +3.36%), ANV (+1.47%), and HNG (+1.75%).
Foreign Investors Continue to Sell
Foreign investors extended their selling streak, offloading a net VND 206 billion (USD 8.1 million) on the HOSE, led by sharp disposals in HDBank (HDB -118 billion), Vincom Retail (VRE -82 billion), KDH (-81 billion), and FPT (-72 billion).
On the HNX, foreigners sold a net VND 111 billion, with SHS, CEO, and PVS among the most heavily traded targets.
Intraday Snapshot: Failed Recovery Attempts
During the morning session, the VN-Index briefly rebounded near the 1,600-point mark, but the rally quickly lost momentum. By mid-session, the index slipped 6 points (-0.38%) to 1,593.08, with sellers dominating 60% of the board.
While liquidity improved slightly — up more than 30% from the previous session — the buying interest proved too weak to counter persistent profit-taking in blue-chip stocks.
The morning’s top decliners included VHM, CTG, and FPT, while VIC, LPB, and HPG provided minor upward support.
Market Outlook: Testing Lower Support
Analysts warn that the VN-Index is “still in the process of finding a bottom,” with investor sentiment fragile and foreign outflows adding pressure. Key support is seen around 1,570 points, though sustained selling in property and technology could deepen short-term losses.
Still, modest strength in banking and consumer shares may offer limited stabilization if macroeconomic data — including inflation and credit growth — remains supportive through November.
Vietnam’s equities are struggling to regain footing after a month-long correction, as institutional selling, weak tech sentiment, and risk aversion continue to drag major indices lower. The coming sessions will test whether the market can hold the 1,570–1,580 range, or slide further before bargain hunters return.
Vietnam’s budget carrier Vietjet Air has been ranked among the Top 6 most valuable airline brands in ASEAN and recognized as Vietnam’s most valuable airline brand in 2025, according to the latest report by Brand Finance, the UK-based global brand valuation consultancy.
The honor places Vietjet alongside some of Asia’s most established carriers, including Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Malaysia Airlines, underscoring the Vietnamese airline’s fast-rising profile and international credibility.
“This recognition reflects the growing confidence of our customers, investors, and partners worldwide,” said Ho Ngoc Yen Phuong, Vietjet’s Deputy CEO and Board Member. “We remain committed to delivering comfortable, affordable, and sustainable flights while strengthening Vietnam’s position on the global aviation map.”
A Fast-Growing Brand with Global Ambitions
Vietjet’s brand strength has been built on aggressive network expansion, fleet modernization, and diversified services. The airline now operates 130 aircraft across more than 170 routes, having carried over 250 million passengers since its founding.
In the first nine months of 2025, Vietjet reported revenue of VND 52.3 trillion (USD 2.1 billion), gross profit of VND 6.7 trillion (USD 270 million), and pre-tax profit of nearly VND 2 trillion (USD 80 million) — a 28% increase year-on-year. As of November 7, the carrier’s market capitalization reached VND 105.3 trillion (USD 4 billion), cementing its status as one of Vietnam’s top listed companies.
The airline continues to evolve into a global aviation group model, backed by hundreds of new aircraft orders, expanding intercontinental routes, and implementing eco-friendly initiatives under its “Fly Green” sustainability strategy.
Regional and Global Recognition
The Brand Finance ranking adds to a growing list of accolades for Vietjet. Earlier this year, the airline was named “Best Enterprise in Southeast Asia’s Tourism Industry” at the ASEAN Business Awards 2025 and received multiple international distinctions from Skytrax, AirlineRatings, and the World Travel Awards.
Vietjet is a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and holds the IOSA Safety Certification, the global benchmark for operational safety. It has been awarded a 7-star safety rating — the highest in the world — by AirlineRatings, and was listed among the Top 50 Airlines Worldwide for Operational and Financial Health by AirFinance Journal in both 2018 and 2019.
Brand Finance: The Global Standard in Brand Valuation
Founded in 1996 and headquartered in London, Brand Finance is one of the world’s most respected brand valuation and financial consulting firms, producing over 6,000 brand valuation reports annually across more than 25 countries. Its rankings assess brand strength based on financial performance, marketing investment, reputation, and influence to reflect a company’s true global market standing.
A Rising Force in ASEAN Aviation
Vietjet’s ascent to the top tier of ASEAN’s airline brands highlights Vietnam’s growing role in regional aviation. From a low-cost carrier to a globally recognized brand, Vietjet is redefining how emerging-market airlines can compete on innovation, customer experience, and sustainability.
As the airline continues expanding across Asia, Europe, and beyond, its latest recognition not only solidifies Vietjet’s leadership in Vietnam’s aviation industry but also signals Vietnam’s emergence as a regional hub for affordable, green, and forward-looking air travel.
The nickname “Bikini Airline” comes from a 2012 marketing campaign by Vietjet Air, when the airline made global headlines for featuring flight attendants wearing bikinis during an inaugural flight to Nha Trang — one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations.
Vietjet launched the bikini flight as a one-time promotional event tied to a beach-themed campaign. The stunt featured models (not regular flight attendants) dressed in red-and-yellow bikinis — matching the airline’s brand colors — dancing in the cabin to celebrate the new coastal route. Photos and videos quickly went viral across Vietnam and international media outlets.
HANOI, Nov 8 (Vietnam Insider) — Vietnam’s economy is showing stronger-than-expected momentum, prompting a wave of upward revisions from major international financial institutions including HSBC, UOB, Standard Chartered, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) — all now projecting GDP growth between 6.7% and 7.9% in 2025.
The upgrades reflect renewed confidence in Vietnam’s macroeconomic stability, resilient exports, and strong domestic consumption.
International Confidence in Vietnam’s Recovery
According to the latest government meeting on November 8, Finance Minister Nguyen Van Thang said Vietnam has successfully maintained macroeconomic stability, contained inflation, and balanced key fiscal and monetary indicators while supporting production and business growth.
Standard Chartered raised its 2025 growth forecast to 7.5%, up sharply from 6.1% in July. HSBC upgraded its estimate from 6.6% to 7.9%, the most optimistic projection among global banks. UOB revised its forecast from 6.9% to 7.5%, and ADB lifted its outlook to 6.7%.
These revisions underscore Vietnam’s position as one of Asia’s most dynamic emerging economies, benefiting from steady FDI inflows, a stable exchange rate, and an improving trade balance.
Key Economic Indicators Strengthen
Vietnam’s consumer price index (CPI) rose just 3.27% year-on-year over the first ten months, signaling effective inflation control. Credit growth reached 20.69%, while state budget revenue exceeded VND 2.18 quadrillion (USD 87 billion), with a more sustainable fiscal structure emerging.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) continued to surge, with registered capital hitting USD 31.5 billion, up 15.6% year-on-year. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s trade surplus approached USD 19.5 billion, supported by robust manufacturing exports and resilient global demand.
On the domestic front, retail sales and service revenues climbed 9.3%, and international tourist arrivals neared 17.2 million, highlighting a solid rebound in consumption and tourism — key engines of post-pandemic recovery.
Challenges Ahead: External Pressures and Natural Disasters
Despite the upbeat outlook, Minister Thang cautioned that the economy still faces significant external headwinds, including global inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory bottlenecks. He also noted that recent storms and floods have caused extensive damage in several provinces, posing additional challenges for growth in the year’s final quarter.
Policy Priorities: Reform, Digitalization, and New Growth Drivers
To sustain momentum, the government is pushing for deeper institutional reforms, administrative simplification, and a nationwide shift to digital public services. The Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Justice are coordinating efforts to streamline legal procedures and remove investment barriers.
Looking ahead, authorities aim to complete the digital transformation of all administrative procedures by the end of 2025, ensuring citizens and businesses can access services regardless of provincial boundaries.
Minister Thang emphasized that ministries and local governments must stimulate investment, boost consumption, and unlock new growth engines such as science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to achieve the country’s ambitious economic goals.
A Strong Finish to 2025
With GDP now projected to expand as much as 7.9%, Vietnam is on track to outperform most of its regional peers — cementing its status as a manufacturing powerhouse and investment magnet in Southeast Asia.
If current trends hold, economists say Vietnam could enter 2026 with renewed fiscal strength, expanding export capacity, and a broader foundation for sustainable, innovation-driven growth.
Fast-food giant KFC Australia has stirred up debate after launching a new menu item inspired by Vietnam’s beloved street food — Banh Mi.
The limited-edition Zinger Banh Mi, rolled out nationwide on November 4, combines KFC’s signature spicy Zinger fillet with local Vietnamese flavors. The chain notably kept the Vietnamese name “Banh Mi” unchanged on its menu.
According to Daily Mail Australia, the sandwich features crispy chicken fillet, spicy “Supercharged” sauce, a new Banh Mi-style mayonnaise, fresh chili, and crunchy coleslaw — replacing traditional fillings such as pâté, pickled vegetables, and cold cuts.
Priced from AUD 9.95 (approx. VND 170,000), the item will be available across Australia until December 1.
“At KFC, we love adding our own twist to modern dishes — and the Zinger Banh Mi is our playful take on a much-loved classic,” said Sally Spriggs, KFC Australia’s Chief Marketing Officer.
The move follows months of speculation after diners spotted a secret “Banh Mi” trial at select stores in New South Wales earlier this year.
While many praised the fusion, calling it “a tasty change from the usual burger” and “soft yet crispy perfection,” others — particularly some Vietnamese-Australian food lovers — were less impressed.
“If there’s no pâté, it’s not real Banh Mi,” one user commented. Another joked: “Calling this Banh Mi is a crime — but okay, I’ll still try it.”
Despite the controversy, the Zinger Banh Mi has become a viral hit online, reigniting global interest in Vietnam’s most famous street food.
An ostrich that had been captured after running loose through an industrial park in Ho Chi Minh City has died from exhaustion, local authorities confirmed on Saturday.
According to officials from Ben Cat Ward, the bird was caught on November 7 after it was seen sprinting at high speed through the My Phuoc 3 Industrial Zone. The ostrich reportedly collapsed and died shortly afterward, likely from fatigue and lack of food or water while roaming outdoors.
The carcass was later disposed of under veterinary supervision, following standard animal control and bio-safety regulations. It was transported to a local waste treatment facility for destruction.
Ostriches running on the road in My Phuoc 3 industrial park
Authorities said the animal was first spotted by workers who reported it to the local People’s Committee after it caused traffic hazards in the area. Police and forest rangers were deployed to capture the bird safely while searching for its owner.
The incident quickly spread across social media, with videos showing the ostrich sprinting between vehicles on industrial roads, drawing both concern and amusement from online viewers.
While the origins of the ostrich remain unclear, local officials emphasized that any large or exotic animal found wandering in public spaces poses potential safety risks and must be handled by professional wildlife or veterinary units.
As central Vietnam endured one of its most severe floods in recent history, Aeon Mall Hue stood out as a striking anomaly: lights on, floors dry, and operations ongoing while surrounding streets transformed into rivers. The mall’s resilience has sparked widespread interest online, with many asking—how did this building survive when so much of the city was underwater?
70 Years of Flood Data, 1.15 Meters Higher
According to Imai Takeshi, General Manager of Aeon Mall Hue, the secret lies in meticulous planning and historical data. Before construction, Aeon Mall Vietnam analyzed 70 years of local flood records to determine safe building heights. The mall’s ground floor is elevated 1.15 meters above street level, complemented by advanced flood-prevention systems in the basement and throughout the building.
“Our design transforms Hue’s unique flood challenges into an architectural advantage,” Imai explained.
This foresight reflects the precision and long-term thinking typical of Japanese construction projects, turning what could have been a vulnerability into a defining feature of safety and reliability.
A Community Safe Haven Amid the Flood
Beyond structural resilience, Aeon Mall Hue acted as a critical support hub for the community. During the floods:
Free flood parking was provided for around 300 cars and 600 motorbikes daily.
The mall remained open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., supplying essential food, water, and household items when local markets were submerged.
Charging stations and resting areas were available for residents navigating the crisis.
“The mall became more than a shopping center; it served as a lifeline during extreme conditions,” said local authorities.
Lessons for Urban Planning in Flood-Prone Cities
The success of Aeon Mall raises questions about applying similar flood-resilient designs citywide. Deputy Mayor Hoang Hai Minh stressed that elevating building foundations across Hue must be carefully adapted to preserve drainage systems and protect heritage areas. Unchecked elevation could inadvertently create low-lying zones elsewhere, exacerbating flood risks.
Still, Aeon Mall Hue offers a model of integrating engineering foresight with community support, showing how urban development can be both resilient and socially responsible. As climate change intensifies flooding risks across Southeast Asia, such strategies may inspire future infrastructure projects.
Vietnam is taking bold steps to tackle urban air pollution by tightening emissions standards for motorcycles and mopeds, with Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi set to lead the initiative beginning July 1, 2027.
Speaking at the “Green Energy – Clean Cities” forum, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Lê Công Thành emphasized the urgent need to address climate change, environmental degradation, and resource depletion. He said Vietnam’s transition to clean energy and sustainable urban development is both a global responsibility and a national priority.
Motorcycles remain a major source of air pollution in Vietnamese cities. The Ministry is drafting a nationwide roadmap for emissions standards based on vehicle age, aiming to gradually reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) outputs.
“The timeline ensures environmental protection while giving citizens and local authorities time to adapt,” a ministry spokesperson explained.
Under the proposed plan:
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City will implement stricter rules starting July 1, 2027.
Other major cities, including Da Nang, Hai Phong, Can Tho, and Hue, will follow July 1, 2028.
The remaining provinces will adopt regulations by July 1, 2030.
Vehicles will be classified into four levels depending on year of manufacture. For example:
Motorcycles built before 2008 and mopeds before 2016 must meet Level 1 standards.
Newer vehicles will be required to meet progressively stricter levels, with Level 4 for the newest models.
In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, all motorcycles and mopeds must meet at least Level 2 standards by January 1, 2032.
The move is part of Vietnam’s broader green energy and climate strategy, which includes commitments under the 2020 Environmental Protection Law, national climate plans, and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Developing green energy not only reduces greenhouse gases and ensures energy security but also supports sustainable growth for major economic and cultural hubs,” Deputy Minister Lê said.
With motorcycles accounting for a significant portion of urban air pollution, these measures mark a major step toward cleaner, healthier cities in Vietnam’s most densely populated areas.
