Vietnam Insider

On August 27, Hanoi police announced that the rehearsal parade marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day would take place at 8 p.m. the same day.

From the night of August 26, crowds had already gathered along central streets despite heavy rain to secure a spot to watch. Taking advantage of this demand, some people placed chairs and mats to reserve spots and then rented them out for 20,000–100,000 VND (about $0.80–$4) per seat.

In response, the Hanoi police chief directed officers to step up patrols, issue warnings, and strictly handle anyone exploiting the event for profit by occupying sidewalks.

On the morning of August 27, a patrol team from O Cho Dua Ward Police and the Mobile Police Unit found N.V.Đ. (44, a resident of Ba Dinh District) placing 10 plastic chairs on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street (near the wall of Xanh Pon Hospital) and charging 20,000 VND per seat.

He was taken to Ba Dinh Ward Police, where a violation report was filed. N.V.Đ admitted his actions, explaining he had previously been asked to hold seats for others during an earlier rehearsal and decided to do it again. He promised not to repeat the offense.

Hanoi police said patrols would continue, and strict action would be taken against anyone exploiting public events to occupy sidewalks and earn money illegally.

After two years of dating, Taylor Swift has officially announced her engagement to Travis Kelce in a stunning fairy-tale setting—sending the internet and global media into a frenzy.

Romantic Proposal Goes Viral

On August 26 (U.S. time), the 12-time Grammy winner shared the big news on Instagram, where she has over 281 million followers.

In a series of dreamy photos, the Kansas City Chiefs star is seen kneeling to propose in a lush flower-filled garden. Swift captioned the post with a playful line: “Your English teacher and your P.E. coach are getting married.”

Within just a few hours, the post exploded online. By 7 a.m. (Vietnam time) on August 27, it had already racked up over 21.5 million likes and countless congratulatory messages from fans and celebrities worldwide.

A Diamond Worth Millions

Kelce reportedly proposed with a massive diamond ring, which jewelry experts estimate could be worth seven figures. According to Page Six, the couple actually got engaged “several weeks ago” but kept it private until their official announcement.

Sources close to Kelce’s family say they are “overjoyed” to welcome the pop superstar as an official member of the family.

A Love Story That Captured the World

Swift (born 1989) and Kelce began dating in summer 2023 after the NFL champion mentioned her on his New Heights podcast, revealing he wanted to meet her during The Eras Tour and even gave her his phone number.

The two quickly became inseparable, frequently spotted together at Chiefs games and Swift’s concerts worldwide. Their high-profile romance not only made headlines but also boosted the Kansas City economy, NFL viewership, and team revenues.

Kelce, who stands 1.96 m (6’5″), is widely regarded as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. He and Swift have kept their relationship relatively private, only speaking publicly about each other on a few occasions.

Swift’s Public Declarations of Love

In December 2023, when named Time’s Person of the Year, Swift publicly praised Kelce for the first time, saying they are “proud of each other.”

At the 2024 MTV VMAs, while accepting Video of the Year, she charmed fans by saying: “I always hear someone cheering from the other side of the studio while we work, and that’s my boyfriend, Travis. Everything he touches turns into happiness, joy, and magic.”

The Power Couple’s Future

The engagement news comes shortly after Swift teased her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, set to release in October 2025.

With their engagement, the world’s favorite pop queen and NFL superstar continue to dominate headlines—and their love story is still being written.

A viral video shows a 28-year-old woman trained in MMA taking down a tattooed man who allegedly harassed and struck her in an underground parking garage.

Incident Caught on Camera

On August 26, footage from a security camera began spreading rapidly on social media, showing the confrontation. The woman, dressed in sportswear, was standing near her motorbike when a tattooed man approached. After a verbal exchange, he slapped her across the face.

The woman immediately removed her helmet and fought back, using martial arts moves to subdue him. Despite a security guard’s attempt to intervene, she managed to wrestle the man to the ground inside a small room in the parking basement.

Who Is the Woman?

Netizens quickly identified her as Hoang H., 28, who has trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA. She later recounted that the incident actually occurred in May 2025 at a residential building in Hanoi, but the video only went viral when her younger sister uploaded it online.

According to Hoang H., the confrontation lasted about 30 minutes. The man allegedly insulted her and hit her first, criticizing her gym attire. Although she initially tried to walk away when bystanders intervened, his continued verbal abuse led her to fight back. After being restrained, the man reportedly apologized.

Public Reaction and Safety Message

The incident has stirred debate online, with many praising Hoang H.’s self-defense skills. She stressed she does not condone violence, but encourages women to learn martial arts for self-defense:

“I don’t promote violence, but knowing how to defend yourself is important.” – Hoang H.

Authorities have not yet identified the man involved, and neither party has filed a police report as of now.

A dramatic gold shop robbery in Da Nang shocked residents on the night of August 26. Despite careful planning, the suspect—a foreign national—was captured within 12 hours after an intense overnight manhunt by city police.

Suspect Identified and Arrested

At noon on August 27, the Da Nang Criminal Police Division, in coordination with specialized units, arrested West Dale James (29), a foreign national, for his involvement in the violent robbery at a jewelry store on Núi Thành Street (Hòa Cường Ward, Da Nang).

According to preliminary investigations, Dale James entered Vietnam in June 2025 and frequently traveled between cities. Authorities believe he had been preparing for the crime for weeks.

Meticulous Preparation Before the Heist

On August 21, the suspect traveled to Ho Chi Minh City and purchased a heavy dual-headed hammer. He then returned to Da Nang, rented an apartment in An Hải Ward, and scouted multiple locations for potential targets.

By the evening of August 26, Dale James disguised himself in a ride-hailing driver’s jacket, helmet, face mask, gloves, and backpack before approaching the jewelry store.

Violent Attack and Robbery

Upon arrival, Dale James allegedly used a 20 cm metal chisel to attack N.N.T. (48), a security guard, striking his head and leaving him seriously injured.

He then smashed the glass display cases with the hammer and stole 20 jewelry items, including 11 diamond pieces, worth over VND 830 million (approximately USD 33,000).

After committing the robbery, the suspect fled on foot into a small alley, retrieved a pre-arranged unlicensed motorbike, and escaped.

Overnight Manhunt and Arrest

Da Nang police immediately launched an all-night operation, deploying multiple investigative teams across the city to track the suspect.

At 10:30 a.m. on August 27, after more than 12 hours of relentless investigation, authorities arrested Dale James at his rented apartment on Pham Tu Street.

During the search, police discovered 18 stolen jewelry pieces hidden inside the ceiling of his bathroom, along with other valuable items whose origins are under investigation.

Police Praise Quick Response

Colonel Nguyen Ha Lai, Deputy Director of Da Nang Police, confirmed that Dale James’s actions were highly aggressive and premeditated. He praised the criminal police and supporting units for their “outstanding achievement” in quickly identifying and capturing the suspect, bolstering public trust in the city’s security forces.

The case is still under investigation.

A recent incident in Ho Chi Minh City, where a group of residents illegally set up a badminton net across a public road, has sparked widespread debate about traffic safety and the need for more community sports facilities.

Badminton on the Road: What Happened?

On August 19, Bình Trưng Ward Police and Cát Lái Traffic Police (HCMC Traffic Police Division) fined three individuals for illegally playing badminton on Street No. 60 in the Văn Minh residential area (Thu Duc City, formerly District 2).

Under Vietnamese law, playing football, shuttlecock, badminton, or any unauthorized sports activity on public roads is prohibited. Each violator was fined between VND 200,000 – 250,000 (approximately USD 8 – 10).

The incident became even more alarming when a ride-hailing driver attempted to pass but was blocked. After voicing his objection, one member of the group allegedly ran into his house and came out wielding a knife to intimidate the driver.

Public Reaction: Fines Are Too Light

A video of the incident went viral on social media on August 18, causing public outrage. Many online users criticized the lenient penalties and raised concerns about traffic safety and social disorder.

Readers commented:

• “With such a small fine, anyone can treat public roads as their private playground,” said user Phuc1969.

• “VNĐ 250,000 is too cheap. This is the second incident of its kind. Without tougher penalties, it will happen again elsewhere,” noted Truong Hao.

• “They blocked traffic and even threatened someone with a weapon. How is that not a serious violation?” added Tuan Duong Van.

Several readers suggested stricter measures, including mandatory community service. Kien Van wrote: “Alongside administrative fines, violators should be required to perform public labor. It’s the only way to raise awareness that streets are not private playgrounds.”

Need for Public Sports Facilities

While condemning the group’s behavior, some citizens emphasized the lack of accessible recreational spaces.

The Hoang shared: “I don’t condone their actions, but I wish there were more safe spaces for sports. Parks should allocate areas for badminton, sepak takraw, or shuttlecock kicking. Local authorities could also designate empty plots as community sports zones.”

Similarly, Nguyen Hung Van added: “Many parks lack proper sports facilities. We need more public playgrounds to encourage healthy lifestyles while maintaining traffic safety.”

A Wider Problem: Misuse of Public Roads

The badminton incident highlights a broader issue in Vietnam—misusing public roads for private events. Many residents set up wedding tents or party canopies in the middle of streets, often blocking traffic for days.

Thiet Hung commented: “Public roads are for everyone. Yet, they’re often turned into private spaces, causing congestion and inconvenience. Authorities should establish community halls for events instead.”

Conclusion: Awareness and Infrastructure Go Hand in Hand

The case has reignited discussions about urban planning and civic responsibility. While violators must face stricter enforcement, city planners and local authorities are urged to create more safe and legal spaces for recreation.

Public order and traffic safety remain pressing issues for Ho Chi Minh City as it continues to grow. Without stronger deterrents and improved community infrastructure, similar incidents may continue to occur.

Police in Ben Thanh Ward, District 1 (former administrative unit), Ho Chi Minh City, are investigating allegations that a 35-year-old man sexually harassed a female passenger on Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien) on the afternoon of August 14.

According to initial reports, L.P.V.C. sat next to the victim, Ms. P., while wearing a black jacket, a mask, and carrying a backpack on his chest. He allegedly placed his hand under the backpack to touch her thigh and body. Despite verbal objections, he reportedly continued until the victim resisted more forcefully.

When the train stopped, C. fled and hid in the men’s restroom. Ms. P. chased him and alerted metro security. Police officers and rapid-response forces arrived, escorting C., the victim, and witnesses to the station for questioning.

A search of C.’s backpack reportedly uncovered student ID cards and documents suspected to be forged.

Later that day, another woman posted on social media claiming she had previously been harassed by C. on the metro, and had captured photos and videos to hand over to authorities.

Police are now reviewing CCTV footage and taking statements to clarify the suspect’s actions.

Vietnam has launched a nationwide campaign to support the Cuban people amid severe economic and humanitarian challenges caused by the lingering impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters, and decades-long sanctions.

Speaking to VnExpress, Nguyen Hai Anh, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Vietnam Red Cross Society, emphasized: “This is the time for Vietnam to demonstrate solidarity with Cuba. When Cuba is in difficulty, we cannot stand by.”

The fundraising initiative, themed “65 Years of Vietnam–Cuba Friendship”, runs for 65 days to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Launched on August 13, the campaign has already raised nearly VND 140 billion in just 48 hours—more than double the initial target of VND 65 billion.

Cuba’s Struggles Under Crisis

Cuba is grappling with a deep economic downturn, damaged infrastructure from earthquakes, storms, and floods, chronic electricity shortages, and an overburdened healthcare system lacking essential medicines. Food scarcity, soaring prices, and the effects of sanctions have made life especially difficult for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, women, and children.

Ensuring Aid Reaches the Right Hands

The Vietnam Red Cross is working directly with the Cuban Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to ensure transparent delivery of aid to those most in need. All support will be monitored, publicly reported, and distributed to intended recipients.

A Legacy of Solidarity

Mr. Nguyen Hai Anh recalled personal memories of studying in Cuba in 1985 and witnessing the warmth and loyalty of the Cuban people toward Vietnam. From Fidel Castro’s historic visit to Quang Tri during wartime to decades of mutual support, he stressed that helping Cuba today is both an act of gratitude and a continuation of a unique bond.

The campaign will run until October 16, 2025, calling on individuals, organizations, and overseas Vietnamese to join hands in making this humanitarian effort a lasting testament to the Vietnam–Cuba friendship.

Donation Information:

• Recipient: Vietnam Red Cross Society

• Account Number: 2022 (Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank – MBBank)

• Transfer Note: “CUBA”

• Period: August 13 – October 16, 2025

Authorities in Da Lat, Lam Dong Province, have confirmed the identities of two teenagers who died in a landslide at Tay Ho Café in Xuan Truong Ward on August 12. Both victims — N.T.D.Q. and D.T.N., aged 16 and from Don Duong District — were killed when a retaining wall collapsed during heavy rain.

According to the Xuan Truong Ward People’s Committee, the landslide occurred in Alley 108, Hung Vuong Street, when a talus slope — built around 2015 and belonging to a local household — suddenly gave way. At the time, Q. and N. were sitting inside the café when the wall collapsed, burying them under debris.

One victim died at the scene, while the other was pulled out by rescue forces and rushed to hospital but did not survive.

Local authorities provided financial support of VND 10 million to each victim’s family and immediately evacuated residents from high-risk areas. Emergency crews worked to stabilize the site and prevent further danger.

Lam Dong Province Chairman Ho Van Muoi has ordered urgent inspections of all hillside structures, the suspension of construction projects on unstable slopes, and the relocation of residents from areas at high risk of landslides. Strict enforcement, including compulsory evacuation, will be carried out if necessary.

Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are investigating the death of a 53-year-old woman discovered inside her locked three-story home in Tay Thanh Ward, Tan Phu District (former jurisdiction).

On August 13, relatives of N.T.K.C. visited her residence in Alley 47, Nguyen Huu Tien Street, but found the door locked. Unable to reach her by phone and fearing something was wrong, they asked a neighbor to climb to the second-floor balcony. Looking through a window, the neighbor saw C. lying motionless inside and alerted police.

Local police, along with the Ho Chi Minh City Fire Prevention, Fighting, and Rescue Police, arrived at the scene, forced open the door, and confirmed that C. had died.

Neighbors said C. had been living alone since separating from her husband years ago, while her children live with their father elsewhere. She was last seen outside her house two days before her death, appearing in normal health.

Police are now working to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding her death.

On August 15, the Family and Juvenile Court of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Court will hold the first-instance trial of Giap Thi Song Huong (51), owner of Hoa Hong Shelter, along with three co-defendants, for “torturing others” in connection with serious child abuse allegations at the facility. The trial will be held behind closed doors, presided over by Judge Quach Thanh Binh, Deputy Chief Judge of the Family and Juvenile Court.

The case came to light on September 4, 2024, after Thanh Nien newspaper published an investigative series titled “Crimes Inside a Shelter”, exposing the Hoa Hong Shelter as a “living hell” for nearly 100 children in its care — including infants and orphans.

Authorities allege that caregivers, including Nguyen Thi Ngoc Cam (47), Diep Ngoc Tuyen (48), and Trang My Nhanh (72), committed repeated acts of physical abuse. Incidents included a 7-month-old baby being sat on and pinched, a child suffering mouth injuries after being struck, and others being lifted and thrown onto mattresses.

Hoa Hong Shelter, operating under a July 2023 license from the former District 12 Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, was officially registered to care for 39 disadvantaged children. However, during inspections on September 4, 2024, authorities found 86 children living there. All were immediately relocated to public social protection centers for medical checkups and continued care.

The shelter’s operating license has since been revoked.

Hanoi, Danang and Dalat among the top 3 most searched domestic destinations, alongside Bangkok, Singapore and Seoul

Ho Chi Minh City, August 2025 – Although summer is winding down, Vietnamese travelers are keeping their wanderlust alive by gearing up for their next adventure during the upcoming National Day holiday, the last long break of the year. Data from Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, reveals a dynamic blend of domestic and international choices, reflecting travelers’ interest in both familiar escapes and new cultural discoveries.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day (September 2nd), setting the stage for a well-deserved long weekend escape. With 41%* of Vietnamese travelers expressing interest in traveling during public holidays, many are turning this celebratory break into a memorable journey. Data from Booking.com highlights the most sought-after destinations for this highly anticipated holiday (between August 29th and September 3rd, 2025)* – from vibrant local getaways to exciting overseas adventures, all inspired by a shared desire to recharge, reconnect with loved ones and immerse themselves in new cultures.

Domestic travel: Culture-rich cities and coastal escapes lead the way

This holiday’s most searched destinations reflect the diverse interests of Vietnamese travelers, from vibrant cultural and historical hubs to relaxing coastal retreats and “cool-cation” escapes. This National Day, Ha Noi with its eventful celebrations takes center stage. With 31%** are specifically motivated to travel to attend events, the capital has emerged as the most searched domestic destination, attracting everyone from solo explorers to families and groups eager to soak in the festive atmosphere.

While the capital sets the stage for meaningful cultural moments, Vietnam’s coastlines continue to appeal to those seeking a tranquil getaway. Da Nang, ranking second, captures attention with its clear skies and calm seas, perfect for both sightseeing and beach relaxation. Other popular coastal destinations like Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Hue, Hoi An, Phu Quoc and Mui Ne follow closely behind, each offering a unique appeal for a sun-soaked escape.

Beyond the beaches, Da Lat ranks third on the list of most-searched domestic destinations for this long weekend. With 56%* of Vietnamese travelers planning a nature trip this year, Dalat provides a perfect backdrop with its refreshing mountain air and outdoor adventures. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City, which ranks fifth, offers an experience with its vibrant, family-friendly attractions and cultural showcase

International Adventures: From closer-to-home destinations to long-haul aspirations

Vietnamese travelers are also exploring destinations within the APAC region for their long weekend, with Bangkok as a top favourite for a quick yet exciting getaway. Singapore, with its unique blend of modernity, culture and lush green spaces has climbed three spots compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, Seoul and Tokyo are also seeing a rise in accommodation searches, luring Vietnamese travelers with their distinct blend of autumn charm and dynamic urban lifestyles. Other popular Asian cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Taipei, continue to draw attention for their diverse culinary scenes, entertainment offerings and easy accessibility.

Top 10 most searched domestic and international destinations on Booking.com by Vietnamese travelers between 29.08.2025 to 03.09.2025 

CONTACT DETAILS

For further information, contact the Booking.com Vietnam Press Office; 

Huong.bui@edelman.com /+84 965642514 

Thuong.duong@edelman.com / +84 902 975 662

My.banh@edelman.com / +84 933588711

Methodology

*Search data is based on domestic destination searches made on Booking.com by users in Vietnam from May 1 to June 15, 2025, with check-in dates between August 29 and September 3, 2025. Year-on-year comparisons are based on searches made during the same period in 2024.

**Travel Trends 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who took a leisure trip with an overnight stay in the last 12 months, plan to travel in 2025 and are involved in trip planning. The sample comprises 32,300 respondents across 32 markets surveyed in January or February 2025. (2,000 from USA, 800 from Canada, 1,800 from Mexico, 800 from Colombia, 1,800 from Brazil, 800 from Argentina, 1,800 from Australia, 500 from New Zealand, 800 from Spain, 800 from Italy, 1,800 from France, 1,800 from UK, 1,800 from Germany, 800 from Netherlands, 500 from Denmark, 500 from Sweden, 400 from Croatia, 800 from Switzerland, 800 from Belgium, 800 from Ireland, 800 from Portugal, 1,800 from India, 800 from China, 500 from Hong Kong, 800 from Thailand, 800 from Singapore, 500 from Taiwan, 800 from Vietnam, 800 from South Korea, 1,800 from Japan, 500 from UAE).

About Booking.com

Part of Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BKNG), Booking.com’s mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. By investing in the technology that helps take the friction out of travel, Booking.com’s marketplace seamlessly connects millions of travelers with memorable experiences every day. For more information, follow @bookingcom on social media or visit globalnews.booking.com.

Mie, Japan – Two Vietnamese nationals are being commended by local authorities after courageously rescuing two Japanese children who were swept away by strong waves off Gotenba Beach in Mie Prefecture.

At around 1 p.m. on August 11, the children, seated on an inflatable float near the shore, were suddenly carried nearly 100 meters out to sea and drifted about 700 meters along the coast, according to HONTO, a Vietnamese media outlet in Japan.

A group of 15 Vietnamese friends on the beach heard the children’s cries for help. Strong winds and a rapidly receding tide were pushing the float farther away, raising fears it could overturn at any moment.

A race against the waves
Phạm Quốc Đạt, 27, and Tống Mạnh Tuấn, 28, immediately swam out to save the children. Their first attempt failed due to the distance and rough waves, forcing them back to shore.

The men then ran along the beach to get closer to the children’s position, grabbed a bicycle-tire float from their group, and made a second attempt despite Tuấn suffering leg cramps.

Meanwhile, other Vietnamese onshore called the police and urged nearby beachgoers to assist. The children’s mother and grandmother, both unable to swim, stood on the beach in panic, pleading for help.

Successful rescue and recognition
After battling strong waves and high winds, Đạt and Tuấn managed to bring the children safely back to shore. Local police and emergency services arrived about 10 minutes later. The stretch of beach where the incident occurred has no on-duty lifeguards.

The Naka Fire Department in Tsu City has confirmed that Đạt and Tuấn will be honored with certificates of commendation on August 28 for their bravery in saving the children’s lives.

Ho Chi Minh City – Ten drivers from a vintage Vespa tour group have been fined a total of VND 50 million for running red lights at a busy downtown intersection while carrying tourists.

On August 13, the Ben Thanh Traffic Police Team, under the HCMC Traffic Police Department, issued violation reports against 10 Vespa drivers from a Saigon-based tourism company for disobeying traffic signals, in accordance with Decree 168.

Incident captured by locals
The violation occurred on the morning of August 11, when a convoy of more than 20 Vespas was taking tourists on a city sightseeing tour along Le Loi Street. As they approached the Nguyen Hue – Le Loi intersection in District 1, the traffic light turned yellow and then red. Ten drivers failed to slow down, instead making a right turn onto Le Thanh Ton Street.

Some riders even weaved through vehicles stopped at the light and crossed in front of pedestrians. The intersection has no green turn arrow that would permit a right turn on red.

Company vows not to repeat offense
The offending Vespas, all belonging to a tour company specializing in vintage Vespa city tours popular with foreign visitors, were brought to the police station for processing.

Company representatives pledged to prevent similar violations in the future and to ensure the safety of all passengers during tours.