Vietnam Insider

The Vietnamese government has appealed for international assistance to help communities recover from recent devastating natural disasters that have caused heavy losses across the country, reducing national GDP by an estimated 0.2%.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment convened an emergency meeting on Wednesday with more than 20 international organizations and embassies — members of the Disaster Risk Reduction Partnership (DRRP) — to share updates and seek coordinated support.

Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Hiep said Vietnam has faced 20 different types of natural disasters so far this year, including 11 storms (six making landfall) and four tropical depressions, leaving 238 people dead and nearly 400 injured.

“Economic damage is preliminarily estimated at VND 35 trillion (US$1.3 billion),” Hiep said. “This represents about half the losses seen in 2024, but the scale and frequency of this year’s disasters are highly unusual.”

Record Floods and Widespread Destruction

In northern provinces such as Thai Nguyen, Lang Son, and Bac Ninh, floodwaters following Typhoon Matmo have submerged hundreds of thousands of homes. In Thai Nguyen alone, more than 200,000 houses were flooded, while flood levels on the Cau River reached 29.9 meters — surpassing the 2024 historic record by more than a meter.

Nationwide, over 30,000 hectares of crops have been damaged, 2,280 livestock and 357,000 poultry lost, and key transport routes cut off. The Hanoi–Dong Dang railway line has been suspended, while 217,000 households remain without electricity.

“Beyond People’s Capacity to Endure”

“Despite great efforts from both the government and citizens, the scale of damage this year has exceeded the people’s capacity to endure,” Hiep said. He urged international partners to provide urgent supplies such as clean water, food, filtration equipment, and materials to help rebuild homes and restore livelihoods.

UN Resident Coordinator Pauline Tamesis called for an emergency response, stressing that “many families have lost their homes, livelihoods, and even loved ones.” She emphasized that “collective action can make the difference for those struggling in the aftermath.”

Following Typhoon Yagi in 2024, Vietnam’s international partners contributed US$25 million in aid and thousands of tons of relief goods. Authorities hope for similar solidarity as the country confronts this latest wave of climate-related disasters.

Hoi An, Vietnam’s charming riverside town, has been named the world’s most affordable long-haul destination for this winter, according to a survey by UK-based Post Office, as reported by Time Out magazine.

Budget-Friendly Paradise for Western Travelers

As the year-end travel season approaches, Vietnam continues to attract visitors from Europe and North America seeking to escape the cold — and affordability has become a key factor.
Post Office’s Long-Haul Holiday Report 2025 analyzed the cost of common travel expenses, including meals, drinks, and entertainment, to find destinations offering the best value for money.

Hoi An topped the global list, where travelers can enjoy a three-course dinner for two with a bottle of wine for about £40 (US$51), and a local beer costs just £1.23 (US$1.60).

Beyond affordability, the UNESCO-listed town is celebrated for its picturesque lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, world-class street food, and peaceful beaches, making it one of the most photogenic destinations in Asia.

The Global Top 10 Most Affordable Long-Haul Destinations for Winter 2025

1. Hoi An, Vietnam

2. Cape Town, South Africa

3. Bali, Indonesia

4. Mombasa, Kenya

5. Tokyo, Japan

6. Colombo, Sri Lanka

7. Penang, Malaysia

8. Delhi, India

9. Phuket, Thailand

10. Santiago, Chile

Vietnam’s Growing Appeal

This recognition adds to Vietnam’s growing reputation as a high-value travel destination, balancing cultural richness, hospitality, and affordability. For long-haul travelers seeking warmth, beauty, and budget-friendly experiences, Hoi An continues to stand out as a top global pick.

Once seen as Ho Chi Minh City’s quiet seaside district, Can Gio is now stepping into the spotlight as a rising hub for luxury tourism and sustainable urban development — thanks to the Vinhomes Green Paradise mega project.

A Visionary Coastal Development

First identified as a key tourism resource in Ho Chi Minh City’s 1996 master plan, Can Gio has long been recognized for its unique ecological and geographical advantages. Now, with the groundbreaking of Vinhomes Green Paradise, the district is set to become a new growth engine for the city’s economy, combining marine tourism, logistics, and environmental preservation.

According to Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and CEO of Vingroup, the project represents a “new development approach — balancing urban growth with nature conservation.” The group envisions Green Paradise as one of the world’s leading ESG-oriented (Environmental, Social, and Governance) urban models, showcasing Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable progress.

World-Class Features and Global Collaboration

The ambitious development includes a series of firsts for Vietnam:

• Blue Waves Theatre, a landmark performing arts venue designed by U.S.-based firm Gensler, spanning 7 hectares.

• Two 18-hole golf courses of international standard.

• Paradise Lagoon, the world’s largest natural seawater lagoon, covering more than 800 hectares.

• A 122-hectare “multi-park resort” complex, designed for long-stay tourism and recreation.

Vingroup is also partnering with global institutions such as Cleveland Clinic to establish Vinmec Can Gio International Hospital, aiming to deliver world-class healthcare standards within the new coastal city.

Strategic Marine Economy and National Significance

Experts view the project as a strategic step in restoring Ho Chi Minh City’s maritime prominence in the region. Prof. Dang Hung Vo, former Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, noted that Can Gio’s coastal location near the Cai Mep–Thi Vai deep-water port gives it an edge in becoming a gateway for international trade and tourism — positioning the city once again among Asia’s leading coastal metropolises.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Chu Hoi, a National Assembly member and marine economy expert, emphasized that Green Paradise reflects Vietnam’s broader ambition to pioneer a modern “blue economy.” Supported by the special Resolution 98 policy framework, Ho Chi Minh City now has the flexibility to implement global-scale projects and attract international investors.

A Future Hub for Sustainable Growth

As Ho Chi Minh City expands its development corridor toward the sea — potentially linking Can Gio, Vung Tau, and Con Dao into a new economic triangle — the district is poised to redefine Vietnam’s coastal tourism landscape.

With its combination of cutting-edge design, ecological awareness, and strategic positioning, Can Gio may soon transform from a quiet mangrove reserve into a symbol of Vietnam’s next era of luxury and sustainable growth.

The United States’ prestigious magazine National Geographic has recently published an article comparing Vietnam’s two biggest cities — Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City — describing both as “vibrant, quintessentially Vietnamese, yet strikingly different.”

Hanoi: Where Tradition Meets Timeless Charm

Travel writer and guidebook author Joe Bindloss first fell in love with Hanoi in the 1990s and says the city’s allure has kept drawing him back for three decades.

“It would be silly to underestimate either destination — both are charming and steeped in history,” Bindloss wrote. “When I first visited Hanoi, I was overwhelmed — sometimes literally — by the sea of motorbikes. To dive straight into local life, head to the Old Quarter, where the streets buzz with energy and tradition.”

He paints vivid scenes of early-morning Hanoi — vendors balancing baskets of fruit, elders playing chess in colonial balconies, and the aroma of phở and bún chả wafting through narrow alleys.

According to Bindloss, the magic of Hanoi lies in its “sense of rhythm — a mix of laid-back charm and French-inspired grandeur.” He recommends exploring cultural landmarks such as the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, and ancient temples like Bạch Mã and Văn Miếu, which “anchor the city in its ceremonial past.”

Hanoi also shines through its museums — from the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to the Vietnam Women’s Museum and Hỏa Lò Prison, each offering a powerful glimpse into the nation’s identity and resilience.

“Whether sipping egg coffee in a colonial café, indulging in street food, or watching the skyline from a rooftop bar, Hanoi lets you fully enjoy the art of travel,” he added.

Located close to natural wonders like Hạ Long Bay, Bái Tử Long Bay, and the northern highlands, Hanoi serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City: The Energetic Southern Metropolis

Meanwhile, James Pham, a Southeast Asia editor at Lonely Planet, described Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) as Vietnam’s “younger, trendier sibling.”

“Hanoi has been the capital for nearly a millennium, while HCMC — founded in the late 17th century — has made up for lost time with a dazzling skyline, vibrant nightlife, and world-class cuisine,” Pham wrote.

The downtown area is elegant and leafy, with French-era landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office, alongside bustling modern districts in District 3 and Chợ Lớn.

Pham noted that HCMC exudes youthful energy, driven by students, entrepreneurs, and creatives from across Vietnam. “It’s a place where trends are born and startups thrive,” he said.

This dynamism extends to the city’s culinary scene, which blends regional specialties — from phở and bún chả to bún bò Huế and cơm tấm. HCMC’s proximity to the Mekong Delta ensures a fresh and flavorful cuisine rich in herbs, tropical fruits, and vegetables.

“The city’s craft food scene is booming — from artisanal chocolate made with local cacao to Vietnamese-inspired gin and craft beer,” Pham added. “You’re never far from a world-class Japanese, Indian, or European restaurant.”

For travelers, HCMC’s international airport offers easy access to destinations like Phú Quốc, Côn Đảo, Vũng Tàu, and Mũi Né, making it an excellent base for exploration.

And while Hanoi can get chilly in winter, HCMC enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round — with just two seasons: dry and wet.

Two Cities, Two Personalities

While Hanoi appeals to culture and history enthusiasts, Ho Chi Minh City attracts those who crave modern energy and cosmopolitan living.

As National Geographic concluded: “If you love history and culture, start in Hanoi. But if you prefer to live life to the fullest — see you in Ho Chi Minh City.”

Behind the glittering façade of Cambodian casinos, a dark underworld thrives — a network of cross-border loan sharks, torture cells, and human captivity. What begins as “easy money” for desperate gamblers often ends in debt, violence, and death.

The recent arrest of Ngô Phi Long, a 32-year-old from Hanoi, has exposed the horrifying realities of underground credit syndicates operating inside Cambodian casinos. His ring lured Vietnamese gamblers, trapped them in debt, and tortured them for ransom — and in one case, murdered a victim and dumped his body in a drainage canal.

Body Found in Cambodian Border City

The investigation began when police in Bavet City, Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia, discovered a bound male corpse in a waterway on December 2, 2024.
The victim was identified as T.V.H., 41, from Lao Cai Province, Vietnam — a gambler who had crossed the border to chase fortune and instead met a brutal end.

Working with Cambodian authorities, Vietnam’s Criminal Police Department (C02) deployed elite investigators across the border. The team soon uncovered a highly organized criminal network that ran a violent loan-sharking operation from within casino compounds.

“It was a system of enslavement disguised as gambling credit,” said Senior Lieutenant Colonel Le Vinh Tung, deputy head of C02’s Serious Crimes Division. “Victims were held, tortured, and forced to beg their families for ransom. Some never came back.”

Cross-Border Black Credit Empire

According to police, in early 2024, Ngô Phi Long established his so-called “credit empire” across multiple casinos near the Mộc Bài border gate (Tây Ninh Province).

Long recruited two lieutenants — Nguyễn Mạnh Hải and Nguyễn Hoàng Long — to lead separate teams. Their task: hunt down desperate Vietnamese gamblers, offer them quick loans, and trap them in crippling debt.

Loans were handed out on the spot, often 50–200 million VND, with ID cards as collateral. Borrowers faced 10% interest every three days and an extra 15% surcharge on each winning bet.

When debtors couldn’t pay, they were seized and taken to rented “safe houses” near casinos — secret prisons disguised as local lodgings. Inside, victims were beaten, electrocuted, filmed, and forced to call family members to beg for money.

All operations were run through encrypted Telegram groups named “Tài-Lộc” and “Lộc-Phát”, where the gang coordinated loans, tracked victims, and ordered punishment.

The Victim’s Two Trips into Hell

Records show that in October 2024, victim T.V.H. borrowed 200 million VND from Hải’s group at a casino near Mộc Bài. After losing everything, he was kidnapped, beaten, and forced to call his wife for 250 million VND in ransom.
He escaped only because Cambodian authorities raided the premises.

But in November 2024, his gambling addiction lured him back across the border — this time to borrow 100 million VND from another faction under Nguyễn Hoàng Long. When he lost again, he was detained once more.

The gang soon discovered his previous unpaid debt. Furious, they demanded his family pay 500 million VND — including a $5,000 “penalty” for escaping earlier.

On December 1, 2024, while being transferred between gangs, T.V.H. resisted. In a fit of rage, Nguyễn Hoàng Long stabbed him three times in the chest and arm inside a moving car.
He died shortly afterward.

His body was wrapped in a blanket and dumped in a drainage canal in Bavet City, while the killers fled back to Vietnam.

Coordinated Crackdown Across Borders

Following a joint investigation by Vietnamese and Cambodian police, seven key suspects were arrested — including ringleader Ngô Phi Long and the murderer Nguyễn Hoàng Long.

Autopsy reports confirmed death by internal bleeding from chest wounds, consistent with the suspects’ confessions.

The C02 Department has since charged seven individuals:

• Five (including Ngô Phi Long and Nguyễn Hoàng Long) with murder, robbery, and unlawful imprisonment,

• Two others with robbery and illegal detention.

“The brutality of this case — the torture, the killing, the disposal — shows the extreme danger of underground credit systems tied to foreign casinos,” said Lt. Col. Tung. “But it also proves the strength of cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia in dismantling transnational crime.”

Casinos: The New Frontline of Crime

Authorities warn that Cambodian border casinos have become hubs for human trafficking, illegal detention, and loan-sharking rings targeting Vietnamese nationals.

What begins as a gamble often becomes a nightmare — a modern “hell on earth” just beyond the border.

The Ngô Phi Long case is now being held up as a landmark victory in cross-border criminal justice, but also a chilling reminder of how quickly debt and desperation can turn deadly.

As floodwaters surged across northern Vietnam, a drone operated by Viettel Post flew through heavy rain and rising currents to deliver emergency medicine and essential supplies to a 4-month-old infant suffering from high fever and convulsions in Thai Nguyen Province.

High-Tech Lifeline in a Flooded Region

Severe flooding left five hamlets and more than 1,000 households in Nga My Commune completely cut off from rescue access. With flood depths reaching up to two meters, even rescue boats struggled to reach the affected families safely.

In response, Viettel Post, a subsidiary of the Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group, deployed a fleet of high-capacity drones designed for emergency logistics. These unmanned aerial vehicles transported food, medicine, and relief goods across submerged zones — and even guided rescue boats through safe routes.

“The use of drone technology has proven invaluable in reaching isolated areas where traditional rescue methods are impossible,” said a representative from Viettel. “This demonstrates how technology can directly serve the community during emergencies.”

200 Drone Missions in 48 Hours

Over October 8–9, Viettel’s drones conducted 200 relief flights, delivering nearly 5 tons of essential goods and performing 30 navigation runs to assist rescue forces. Each drone flight took just five minutes to complete, ensuring rapid support to stranded residents.

Late on October 8, when reports arrived about a baby in critical condition, Viettel’s team immediately launched a drone loaded with medicine and baby supplies. Within minutes, the aircraft successfully crossed the flooded area and dropped the package directly to the family.

Advanced Technology Meets Humanitarian Effort

Each drone boasts a 5 km flight range, 50 kg payload capacity, and operates at altitudes up to 100 meters. With rapid battery-swapping systems, the fleet can run 24 hours a day, even during challenging weather conditions.

Images from the scene showed drones flying through heavy rain and darkness, carrying critical supplies to families trapped by floodwaters — a vivid example of how innovation and compassion can converge to save lives.

Floods Cause Widespread Damage

The floods were triggered by the remnants of Typhoon Matmo (Typhoon No. 11), which brought 250–500 mm of rainfall between October 6 and 7. Water levels on the Cau River exceeded historical records by nearly one meter, inundating large portions of Thai Nguyen.

Preliminary reports indicate that four people were killed, two are missing, and two others were injured. Nearly 200,000 households were affected, and over 4,400 hectares of crops and aquaculture were damaged.

By October 9, water levels had begun to recede, revealing thick layers of mud, debris, and damaged infrastructure. Residents have started cleaning up and restoring their homes as recovery efforts continue.

Technology at the Heart of Disaster Response

The successful rescue operation in Thai Nguyen underscores how Vietnam’s growing tech capabilities, particularly in telecommunications and unmanned aviation, are transforming disaster relief efforts.

What was once a distant vision — drones saving lives amid floods — has now become a real-world example of innovation in service of humanity.

A 35-year-old village Party secretary in Bac Ninh Province tragically passed away from a stroke while helping residents combat severe flooding caused by prolonged heavy rains along the Cau River.

Devastating Floods Threaten Communities in Bac Ninh

According to the Ministry of Public Security, continuous downpours have caused the Cau River to rise beyond alarm level 3, posing a serious threat to the lives and property of thousands of residents.
Local authorities, together with police and military forces, have been on high alert 24/7, mobilizing all available manpower and equipment to reinforce dikes and protect vulnerable areas.

A Hero Who Fell in the Line of Duty

On the morning of October 9, Doan Van Manh, Secretary of the Party Cell of Tan Son Village and deputy head of the village’s public security team, was working on the dike in Hop Thinh Commune, Bac Ninh. He had been coordinating flood control efforts, assisting villagers in reinforcing embankments, and maintaining order as water levels surged.

After hours of strenuous work in the rain, Manh suddenly collapsed around noon. Despite being rushed to a local medical facility, he could not be revived.

“He was a dedicated, responsible, and exemplary official who always put the safety of the people first,” said Nguyen Van Khanh, Party Secretary of Hop Thinh Commune. “His sudden passing is a great loss for our community.”

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Manh had served in local security forces since 2015, initially as a part-time police officer in Hung Son Commune. In 2024, he became deputy head of the grassroots security team in Hop Thinh Commune while simultaneously serving as Party Secretary of Tan Son Village.

Colleagues and residents described him as devoted, hardworking, and deeply respected—a community leader who led by example during times of crisis.

Behind the Uniform: A Family in Hardship

Manh came from a poor family. His elderly mother is in weak health, while his wife, a farmer, now must care for their two young children alone. Their eldest, aged nine, suffers from a congenital disability.

Local authorities have established a funeral committee, visited the family, and provided emergency financial support. Party and security officials are also stepping in to continue Manh’s duties, ensuring the safety of flood-hit areas.

A Reminder of Courage Amid Crisis

As northern Vietnam continues to face heavy rains and dangerous flooding, Manh’s sacrifice underscores the quiet heroism of local officials and volunteers working tirelessly to protect their communities.

His name will be remembered not just as a village leader, but as a symbol of selfless service and resilience in the face of natural disaster.

A car caught fire inside the underground parking lot of the Takashimaya Shopping Mall—one of downtown Ho Chi Minh City’s busiest commercial centers—on Monday afternoon. The blaze was quickly extinguished thanks to the building’s automatic fire response system and on-site security staff.

Fire Breaks Out in Basement Parking of Saigon Centre

At around 4:00 p.m., security guards at Takashimaya, located on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, noticed smoke rising from the B4 parking level of the Saigon Centre complex. The fire was traced to a BMW sedan parked near an elevator bay.

Automatic fire alarms and sprinkler systems were activated immediately. Building security personnel swiftly responded using CO₂ extinguishers and dry chemical fire suppressants, managing to control the flames within minutes.

Authorities from Saigon Ward Police and the District 1 Fire and Rescue Unit arrived soon after, confirming that the fire had been fully contained before spreading to other vehicles nearby.

“The incident was handled in accordance with proper fire safety protocols. No one was injured and surrounding cars were not damaged,” said a representative from Saigon Centre’s management.

Quick Response Prevents Major Damage

At the time of the incident, the underground garage was busy, with several vehicles parked nearby. Responders used specialized lifting equipment to move two cars away from the burning vehicle, preventing the fire from spreading.

Fifteen building staff members worked together to put out the blaze using extinguishers, sand, and water hoses. Within five minutes, the flames were fully extinguished.

Investigation Underway

Police confirmed that the fire originated from a gasoline-powered BMW. The car owner stated that the vehicle had recently undergone maintenance. The management team provided CCTV footage and reports to assist the insurance company and fire investigators in determining the exact cause.

No Casualties Reported

Thanks to a well-coordinated emergency response, no injuries were reported and operations at Takashimaya resumed shortly after the incident.

Fire safety authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are continuing to investigate the cause of the blaze, emphasizing the importance of strict fire prevention protocols in commercial buildings.

Da Nang Police Foil Online “Kidnapping” Scheme Targeting College Student

Da Nang, Vietnam (October 7, 2025) — Authorities in Da Nang have successfully prevented a sophisticated online scam in which a group of criminals impersonating police officers coerced a female college student into isolating herself in a hotel for hours of “interrogation” via video call.

The victim, identified as T.H.L., 18, from Thanh Hoa Province, is currently studying at a local college.

The Scam: “You Are Involved in a Drug Case”

According to Huong Tra Ward Police, the suspects called L. claiming to be officers from the Ministry of Public Security, accusing her of involvement in a drug-trafficking case.

They told her she needed to prove her innocence or face a fine of 300 million VND (~US$12,000).
The fake officers ordered her not to tell anyone, insisting she follow their instructions or risk arrest.

Forced Into Isolation for an “Online Investigation”

Terrified, L. followed their directions and checked into Hotel M.T. in Da Nang, where she was instructed to participate in an “online working session” with the so-called police officers.

For several hours, 6–7 men dressed in police uniforms appeared on video calls, yelling, threatening, and psychologically manipulating the young woman.
They even demanded she travel to Ho Chi Minh City for further “interviews” with fake officers there.

Frightened and confused, L. repeatedly called her family to ask for large sums of money, claiming it was needed for the investigation.

Real Police Step In

Huong Tra Police said they detected suspicious activity when monitoring reports of unusual money transfer requests from L.’s family. Officers quickly traced her location to Hotel M.T. and arrived just in time to stop the scam.

They found L. in a state of panic but unharmed. Police provided counseling, reassured her safety, and launched an investigation to track down the fraudsters behind the scheme.

Authorities Warn of “Online Kidnapping” Tactics

Officials describe this as part of a new wave of telecom fraud known as “online kidnapping”, where scammers use psychological pressure to isolate victims and extort money from their families.

Police urge the public to verify any calls claiming to be from law enforcement and never send money or personal information under threat.

“Real police never conduct investigations online or demand payments,” a Da Nang officer emphasized.
“People must stay alert — these scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated.”

Hội An, Vietnam, has been recognized as the most budget-friendly long-haul destination for international travelers this winter, according to a new ranking by Time Out magazine (UK).

Travel experts note that long-distance travel doesn’t always mean high expenses. While airfare may be costly, destinations across Asia—particularly in Vietnam—offer affordable hotels, dining, and entertainment, making them attractive options for budget-conscious tourists.

The Time Out report, released in early September, compiled the average daily costs of food, drinks, and accommodation to determine the top 10 best-value winter getaways. Hội An topped the list, offering visitors from Europe and North America the opportunity to enjoy rich experiences for less.

In Hội An, a three-course dinner for two with wine costs around USD 54 (₫1.4 million), while a local beer averages about USD 2 (₫50,000). Beyond affordability, the UNESCO-listed town is also known as one of Vietnam’s most photogenic cities, with its lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, vibrant night markets, and nearby pristine beaches.

Following Hội An, the list includes Cape Town (South Africa), known for its stunning Table Mountain views and colorful Bo-Kaap district, and Bali (Indonesia), where cocktails start at just USD 6 and surfers can still find quiet beaches away from the crowds.

Other destinations in the top 10 are Mombasa (Kenya), Tokyo (Japan), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Penang (Malaysia), Delhi (India), Phuket (Thailand), and Santiago (Chile).

Founded in London in 1968, Time Out is a global travel and culture publication recognized for its curated recommendations and reliable rankings based on insights from local editors and travel experts. Its lists guide travelers toward authentic, high-value experiences that suit a wide range of budgets.