Vietnam Insider

Torrential rain from Tropical Storm No. 10 brought severe flooding and traffic paralysis to Hanoi on the morning of September 30, forcing many residents to abandon vehicles or spend hours inching their way to work and school.

Some commuters reported journeys taking up to three hours. Hải Anh, 28, left early from Thanh Xuân District for her office in Cầu Giấy but still endured gridlock. “Normally it takes me 45 minutes. Today it was nearly three hours,” she said, describing vehicles at a standstill along Phạm Hùng Street as thousands converged from major arteries.

Flooded roads left many stranded. Đức, 35, said his motorbike stalled in deep water near Mỹ Đình Stadium. “I had to push it for 400 meters. With no repair shop in sight, I gave up and went home,” he said.

Parents also struggled to get children to school. Nguyễn Trang, 30, attempted to take her son to class but was forced to turn back after her motorbike stalled in heavy rain. “We were soaked through, and cars created waves that nearly knocked us off,” she recalled.

By 7 a.m., major intersections such as Trôi–Lai Xá in Hoài Đức District were submerged, with vehicles turning back in long lines. Residents said flooding was the worst they had seen in more than a decade.

Hanoi Drainage Company reported rainfall of up to 198 mm in some districts within 24 hours. Pumping stations across the city, including Yên Sở, Cầu Bươu, and Đồng Bông, have been operating at full capacity to ease water levels, though conditions remain severe in several neighborhoods.

A court in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, on September 29 sentenced 16 people to death for their roles in a notorious Myanmar-based criminal network accused of online fraud, drug trafficking, prostitution, and multiple murders.

According to state broadcaster CCTV, prosecutors found that since 2015, the Ming family syndicate had exploited its influence in Myanmar’s Kokang region to establish scam compounds and coordinate large-scale criminal operations. The group was accused of running online fraud schemes, drug deals, illegal casinos, and sex trafficking rings.

The court said the syndicate used violence to control its operations, killing at least 14 people — including 10 who tried to escape or disobey orders. In one case in October 2023, gunfire erupted at a scam compound as gang members attempted to prevent victims from being repatriated to China.

Authorities revealed the group drew more than 10 billion yuan (US$1.4 billion) in financial backing from armed “sponsors.” While 16 received death sentences — five with a two-year reprieve — another 23 defendants were handed prison terms ranging from five years to life.

The verdict comes as China steps up cross-border cooperation with Southeast Asian countries to dismantle such scam hubs. Thousands of people have been repatriated from Myanmar in recent months.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime has warned that cyber-fraud networks, many led by Chinese nationals, are generating tens of billions of dollars annually and are expanding beyond Southeast Asia to Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, and the Pacific. An estimated hundreds of thousands of people are trapped working in these compounds worldwide.

A landslide triggered by heavy rain in Sa Pa (Lào Cai Province) on September 29 sent a car tumbling down a mountainside, though the driver escaped unharmed.

At around 5:08 p.m., a section of road leading to Cát Cát village suddenly gave way, with rocks and soil crashing down onto the roadway. Dashcam footage from a following vehicle captured the moment a black car was struck and pushed off the road, sliding down the slope.

Local authorities confirmed the incident. “Fortunately, the driver is safe,” said Phan Đăng Toàn, chairman of Sa Pa Ward People’s Committee.

The car sustained significant damage after being swept downhill.

The incident comes as northern Vietnam continues to experience widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms from Tropical Storm No. 10. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned of heightened risks of flash floods and landslides in provinces including Lào Cai, Sơn La, Phú Thọ, and Thanh Hóa, with rainfall in some areas exceeding 250mm.

Traffic police in Ho Chi Minh City pursued a stolen vehicle for nearly 50 kilometers before apprehending the suspect in neighboring Tay Ninh Province.

On September 28, HCMC police received a report of a seven-seat car stolen in Lam Dong Province. The vehicle was later detected speeding through the city’s northwest gateway area.

A patrol team led by Lieutenant Colonel Phan Thanh Tuấn, head of the Tay Bac Traffic Police Station, spotted the car at the Tinh Lo 7 – Tinh Lo 2 intersection and gave chase.

The suspect, realizing he was being followed, accelerated recklessly across multiple roads toward Tay Ninh. After a prolonged pursuit, officers managed to overtake the vehicle in a deserted stretch, forcing it to stop. The driver attempted to flee on foot but was swiftly subdued and handcuffed.

Police recovered a lock-picking tool, known locally as a “doản”, from the suspect. He has since been handed over to Lam Dong police for further investigation.

When it comes to vibrant nightlife in Vietnam, many would think of Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City or Ta Hien Street in Hanoi. But in a surprise twist, British travel magazine Time Out has ranked another area in central Ho Chi Minh City as Vietnam’s most exciting neighborhood in its “39 Coolest Neighborhoods in the World 2025” list.

Global Survey of the World’s Best Neighborhoods

For eight consecutive years, Time Out has highlighted the world’s most dynamic districts—places where nightlife, food, culture, art, and community thrive together. This year’s ranking was based on surveys of local experts across the globe, assessing factors such as livability, creativity, affordability, dining, and street life.

Among the 39 selected neighborhoods worldwide, Vietnam’s entry came in at No. 11. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the tourist-packed Bui Vien or Ta Hien, but a quieter, more historic area just outside the East Gate of Ben Thanh Market: the Nguyen Thai Binh Ward area.

Nguyen Thai Binh Ward: Hidden Gems Behind Colonial Facades

Now merged into Saigon and Ben Thanh wards, the Nguyen Thai Binh neighborhood includes charming streets like Le Cong Kieu, Nguyen Thi Hong Gam, Ky Con, Yersin, and Pho Duc Chinh.

At first glance, the area seems like any other busy Vietnamese street, lined with workshops, scooters, and steaming bowls of noodle soup. But for those willing to explore, it reveals a vibrant mix of world-class dining, speakeasy bars, and antique shops hidden behind colonial-era facades and rolling shutters.

Highlights include:

• Leonardo, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s top pizza restaurants.

• ÔMM Mixology, praised as one of the city’s best cocktail bars.

• Noriboi Omakase, a renowned Japanese fine-dining restaurant that recently moved from Thao Dien to Nguyen Thai Binh.

A Day in Ho Chi Minh City’s “Coolest Neighborhood”

Time Out recommends visitors start their day with a bowl of bun rieu cua Phan Rang, a crab noodle soup beloved by locals. Then stop by Hoang Thi Cafe, a retro-style coffee shop, before browsing antiques along Le Cong Kieu Street.

For lunch, head to Bep Me In for homestyle Vietnamese dishes, then spend the afternoon at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts nearby. As evening falls, explore hidden bars, dine at celebrated restaurants, and end the night at The Arth, where live saxophone music creates the perfect nightlife vibe.

Where Does Vietnam Rank Globally?

The top 10 coolest neighborhoods in the world 2025 according to Time Out are:

1. Jimbocho, Tokyo, Japan

2. Borgerhout, Antwerp, Belgium

3. Barra Funda, São Paulo, Brazil

4. Camberwell, London, UK

5. Avondale, Chicago, USA

6. Mullae-dong, Seoul, South Korea

7. Ménilmontant, Paris, France

8. Nakatsu, Osaka, Japan

9. Vallila, Helsinki, Finland

10. Labone, Accra, Ghana

With Nguyen Thai Binh ranked at No. 11, Vietnam has secured a strong spot among the world’s most exciting urban destinations—proof that its charm goes far beyond the country’s well-known party streets.

Asia is home to thousands of breathtaking islands, from pristine beaches and lush jungles to rich cultural heritage sites. A recent ranking by UK travel magazine Time Out has named the 7 best islands to visit in Asia — and Vietnam’s very own Phu Quoc proudly secured a spot in the top 3.

Asia’s Most Stunning Islands to Explore

1. Borneo

The largest island in Asia, Borneo spans across Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. It’s a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers, with dense rainforests, sandy beaches, and river safaris. Visitors here can spot endangered species such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.

2. Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia’s most famous island, Bali continues to attract millions of visitors every year thanks to its waterfalls, rice terraces, surfing spots, and vibrant Hindu culture. Dolphins, yoga retreats, and endless adventure await travelers here.

3. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island has quickly risen to fame as one of Asia’s most beautiful destinations. With powdery white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, it’s a true tropical escape.

Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints, family-friendly attractions like VinWonders Phu Quoc and Aquatopia Water Park, or take a ride on the world’s longest oversea cable car from Sunset Town.

4. Baa Atoll, Maldives

The Maldives remains a bucket-list destination, boasting nearly 1,200 islands. Among them, Baa Atoll stands out as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where travelers can marvel at colorful coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons, and luxury overwater villas.

5. Palawan, Philippines

Nicknamed the “last frontier” of the Philippines, Palawan dazzles with limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and diverse marine life. Highlights include El Nido’s island-hopping tours, Coron’s famous WWII shipwreck dives, and Puerto Princesa’s UNESCO-listed underground river.

6. Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan

One of Okinawa’s most accessible islands, Ishigaki offers world-class snorkeling, coral reefs, and powdery white sands. Visitors can relax at Yonehara Beach or climb the ancient coral stone steps at Shiraho for panoramic island views.

7. Koh Rong, Cambodia

Cambodia’s second-largest island, Koh Rong, is famous for its magical bioluminescent plankton, which glow as you swim at night. By day, travelers enjoy quiet beaches, water sports, and a laid-back island atmosphere.

Phu Quoc: Vietnam’s Shining Star

Ranking among Asia’s best is a major boost for Vietnam’s tourism. Phu Quoc continues to attract international travelers with its blend of natural beauty, modern attractions, and unique cultural experiences.

With direct flights from major cities in Asia and beyond, the island is expected to welcome even more visitors in the coming years, cementing its place as one of Asia’s top island getaways.

A viral video showing a woman scattering an unknown white powder along a street in Ho Chi Minh City has sparked widespread concern online, prompting local traffic police to step in and investigate.

Clip Gains Over 4 Million Views

Since yesterday, social media has been flooded with a clip capturing two people riding a motorbike at a slow pace. The woman on the back seat can be seen repeatedly tearing open plastic bags filled with powder and dumping their contents onto the road.

Once one bag was emptied, she tossed the plastic onto the street before opening another. This unusual act was recorded by a passerby, who later uploaded the footage online. The video has since attracted more than 4 million views and thousands of comments.

Witness Confronted, Got Splashed With Fermented Shrimp Paste

According to the original uploader, identified as Facebook user Manh Quan, the incident occurred on the route from Van Phuc City to Tam Ha (former Thu Duc area).

“I think she scattered nearly 30 small bags of coffee powder,” he wrote, expressing confusion and fear.

Quan added that when he tried to approach the woman and threatened to call the police, she allegedly splashed a jar of fermented shrimp paste (mam tom) at his motorbike.

Netizens Speculate About Powder

The clip quickly stirred debate across platforms. Many wondered what the substance could be and why it was scattered on public roads instead of being disposed of properly.

Some speculated it might be ashes or mixed powders used for spiritual or ritual purposes, while others simply called it reckless littering that could endanger road safety.

One commenter wrote: “There are clear images. I hope authorities investigate, since the powder was carefully packed into many small bags.”

HCMC Traffic Police Step In

On September 29, reporters confirmed that the Rach Chiec Traffic Police Team (PC08, HCMC Police Department) had tracked the incident to Hiep Binh Street, Hiep Binh Ward.

The police are now coordinating with local authorities to summon those involved for questioning and to clarify the nature of the powder.

Authorities have urged the public to stay calm while the substance and motive behind the woman’s actions are investigated.

A family in Dong Nai is in shock after their 16-year-old daughter, an 11th-grade student, suddenly disappeared, blocking all communication and leaving behind only a cryptic message.

Teen Goes Missing After School

On September 29, Mr. Tran My Ha, a resident of Dong Xoai Ward, Dong Nai Province, reported to police that his daughter, Tran Ngoc Anh (16 years old, Grade 11, Dong Xoai High School), had unexpectedly gone missing and might have been lured away.

According to Mr. Ha, on September 27, after school, Ngoc Anh asked for permission to go out for lunch with friends. Her family agreed, but by noon, she had stopped answering calls and did not return home.

The family checked the restaurant where she ate with friends and reviewed CCTV footage. Shockingly, it showed Ngoc Anh leaving in a car with a stranger. Alarmed, the family immediately reported the case to local police.

Taken to Tan Son Nhat Airport

Authorities later tracked down the driver of the vehicle, who confirmed he had driven Ngoc Anh to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. During the trip, the girl allegedly told him she was flying to Hanoi where “someone would pick her up.”

The following morning (September 28), Ngoc Anh sent a brief text message to her mother: “Mom, don’t worry about me. I’ve found a job.”
After this message, all calls from her family were blocked. Only calls from unfamiliar numbers would ring, but no one picked up.

Family Fears She Was Lured Into Danger

What raised further concern was that after the family posted missing-person notices on social media, Ngoc Anh sent another message demanding that her mother delete all the posts. When her parents tried to call back, the phone rang but went unanswered.

Mr. Ha expressed deep worry:

“We suspect the person using the phone might not even be our daughter. We fear that Ngoc Anh may have been deceived and dragged into a dangerous environment.”

The family has appealed to the public for help. Anyone with information is urged to contact them at 0961.855.579.

Police Investigation Underway

Local authorities confirmed the case. Leaders of Dong Xoai Ward People’s Committee stated they have directed relevant units to work closely with the family to urgently locate the missing student.

The investigation is ongoing as police coordinate with multiple agencies to verify her whereabouts and ensure her safety.