Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Hottest Tourist Destination on the Rise

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Vietnam is rapidly emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after travel destinations, thanks to favorable visa policies, extensive tourism promotion efforts, and global recognition through prestigious international awards.

According to the General Statistics Office, the country welcomed 3.96 million foreign visitors in the first two months of 2025, marking a remarkable 30.2% increase compared to the same period last year. Mainland China remained the largest source market, contributing 955,000 arrivals, followed by South Korea (885,000) and Taiwan (218,000). Meanwhile, India secured the ninth spot among Vietnam’s top 10 visitor markets, with 92,000 Indian travelers choosing the country as their destination this year.

So, what makes Vietnam one of the world’s most popular travel hotspots? Here are the key reasons behind its growing appeal:

1. Convenient Travel Access
Vietnam’s accessibility is a major draw for international visitors, particularly Indian travelers. With direct flights from major Indian cities to Ho Chi Minh City taking just four to six hours—comparable to domestic travel within India—it has become a favored short-haul getaway.

2. Rich Cultural Heritage
With a deep-rooted history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Vietnam offers an immersive cultural experience. Traditional festivals allow visitors to engage with locals and partake in centuries-old customs, making every trip a meaningful journey through time.

3. World-Renowned Cuisine
Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, known for its fresh, flavorful, and healthy dishes. From steaming bowls of pho to mouthwatering seafood specialties, the country’s diverse culinary scene caters to all tastes—whether dining at street-side vendors or high-end restaurants. Every meal is an adventure waiting to be savored.

4. Affordable Travel Destination
Vietnam remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia. Compared to other global tourist hotspots, accommodations, meals, and transportation are highly affordable, allowing travelers to enjoy a luxury experience without a hefty price tag.

5. Thrilling Adventure Activities
For adrenaline junkies, Vietnam offers an abundance of adventure sports and outdoor activities. With over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, vast river systems, and breathtaking mountain landscapes, thrill-seekers can enjoy trekking, rock climbing, scuba diving, windsurfing, skydiving, auto racing, and boat racing.

With a combination of stunning landscapes, affordability, cultural richness, and ease of travel, Vietnam is solidifying its position as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. As international arrivals continue to surge, the country is set to break new tourism records in 2025.

Vietnam-China Trade Surpasses $31 Billion in First Two Months of the Year

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Vietnam’s trade with China totaled over $31 billion in the first two months of this year, according to the National Statistics Office. China remains Vietnam’s largest import partner and second-largest export destination.

During this period, Vietnam’s exports to China were estimated at $7.9 billion, reflecting a 2.1% decline compared to the same period last year. In contrast, imports from China surged to $23.3 billion, marking a significant 20.7% year-on-year increase.

China continues to be Vietnam’s primary source of imported goods, particularly raw materials essential for domestic production.
In 2023, bilateral trade between Vietnam and China reached a record high of $205 billion, with Vietnam’s exports accounting for $61.2 billion of the total.

Impact of Trump 2.0 and Supply Chain Diversification

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The return of Donald Trump to the presidency in 2025 is set to bring major shifts in global trade policies, supply chains, and economic strategies. With his “America First” agenda back in full force, businesses worldwide are bracing for potential trade disruptions, new tariffs, and an evolving regulatory landscape. As companies face these uncertainties, supply chain diversification has become a critical strategy to mitigate risks and maintain competitiveness in a rapidly changing global economy.

The Resurgence of Trump’s Trade Policies

During his first presidency, Trump imposed significant tariffs on China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union, leading to a reconfiguration of global trade relationships. With Trump 2.0, there is strong speculation that he will reintroduce or even expand these tariffs, especially targeting Chinese imports. The administration’s aggressive stance on reducing dependence on China could lead to further decoupling, pushing businesses to seek alternative manufacturing hubs.

Businesses are facing the prospect of new tariffs, including a 10% levy on Chinese imports in 2025, alongside broader reciprocal tariffs and trade restrictions targeting China, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union. India has also emerged as a potential focus of Trump’s tariff strategy. Rather than a blanket policy, the administration is adopting a customized approach for each country. While some tariffs have been temporarily paused for Canada and Mexico, they still face additional trade restrictions. The possibility of broader tariff reinstatements remains high, creating uncertainty for global supply chains. As a result, companies reliant on Chinese and North American manufacturing could experience higher costs, supply chain bottlenecks, and longer lead times. In response, businesses are increasingly looking to Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia as key alternatives to mitigate risks from shifting trade policies.

To gain deeper insights into how businesses are adapting to shifting global trade policies and why Vietnam is emerging as a key alternative to China, this insightful video explores real-world strategies, expert perspectives, and the factors driving supply chain diversification in 2025. Discover the opportunities and challenges shaping Vietnam’s growing role in global manufacturing.

Why Supply Chain Diversification Matters

In an era of uncertain U.S. trade policies and evolving global dynamics, supply chain diversification has become a necessity rather than a choice. Relying on a single manufacturing location exposes businesses to risks such as tariffs, trade bans, and geopolitical tensions. By diversifying sourcing strategies, companies can enhance resilience, reduce dependency, and ensure long-term stability.

Key benefits of supply chain diversification include:

  • Cost Optimization – Relocating production to countries with lower labor and operational costs helps offset tariff impacts.
  • Risk Mitigation – A multi-sourcing approach minimizes exposure to geopolitical instability, labor shortages, and logistics disruptions.
  • Faster Adaptation – Businesses with flexible supply chains can swiftly respond to market shifts and regulatory changes.
  • Competitive Advantage – Companies that proactively adjust supply strategies gain an edge by maintaining stability and growth despite uncertainties.

As global trade continues to evolve, businesses that embrace diversification will be better positioned to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

Key Benefits of Supply Chain Diversification

>> Related article: Trump’s Re-Election: Implications for Vietnam’s Economic Prospects

  • Cost Optimization – Shifting production to countries with lower labor and operational costs can help businesses offset the impact of tariffs and trade restrictions.
  • Risk Mitigation – A diversified supply chain reduces vulnerability to geopolitical instability, labor shortages, and logistical disruptions.
  • Faster Adaptation – Companies with multiple sourcing options can respond quickly to changing market demands and regulatory shifts.
  • Competitive Advantage – Being able to adjust supply strategies faster than competitors allows businesses to maintain stability and growth even in uncertain times.

Vietnam: A Rising Alternative to China

Among the top destinations for supply chain diversification, Vietnam stands out as a strong contender. Over the past decade, the country has positioned itself as a leading manufacturing hub for industries such as textiles, furniture, electronics, and industrial goods. Several factors make Vietnam an attractive alternative for businesses looking to reduce their reliance on China:

  • Lower Tariffs & Trade Agreements – Vietnam has secured numerous trade agreements, including the CPTPP and the EVFTA, making exports more cost-effective.
  • Skilled Workforce & Competitive Labor Costs – Vietnam offers a skilled labor force at a lower cost compared to China, making manufacturing more economical.
  • Proximity to Major Markets – Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam provides easy access to key global markets, ensuring efficient logistics and transportation.
  • Expanding Industrial Infrastructure – The country has been heavily investing in industrial zones, ports, and logistics facilities to support growing manufacturing demand.

Many multinational corporations, including Samsung, Nike, and Apple, have already diversified their supply chains by expanding operations in Vietnam. With Trump’s potential trade restrictions on China and North America, more businesses are likely to follow this trend.

Supply Chain Diversification Challenges in the Trump 2.0 Era

>> Related article: Vietnam vs China for Sourcing : Is Vietnam a Strategic Alternative to “Made in China” ?

While relocating production to Vietnam and other regions presents significant advantages, businesses must also navigate several challenges. Managing multiple suppliers across different countries adds complexity to supply chain coordination and logistics, requiring efficient oversight to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, regulatory differences, including local labor laws, tax regulations, and trade policies, demand thorough compliance to avoid legal and operational setbacks. Another key consideration is the initial investment required to establish new supplier networks and facilities, which may take time before yielding cost-saving benefits. Despite these hurdles, companies that proactively adapt to the evolving trade landscape will be better positioned for long-term stability and sustainable growth.

Preparing for the Future

With the potential impacts of Trump 2.0 on global trade, businesses must take proactive steps to protect their supply chains:

  • Conduct Risk Assessments – Evaluate how potential tariffs and trade restrictions may impact your current sourcing strategies.
  • Identify Alternative Suppliers – Establish relationships with suppliers in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and other emerging manufacturing hubs.
  • Invest in Digital Supply Chain Solutions – Leverage technology to improve supply chain visibility, optimize logistics, and enhance efficiency.
  • Stay Informed & Adaptable – Keep up with policy changes and global trade developments to make informed business decisions.

Conclusion

The return of Trump’s trade policies is expected to reshape global supply chains and force businesses to rethink their sourcing strategies. By diversifying supply chains and exploring alternative manufacturing destinations like Vietnam, companies can reduce risks, manage costs, and remain competitive in an uncertain economic landscape. As the world navigates these changes, one thing is clear—adaptability is key to success. Businesses that stay ahead of the curve will not only survive but thrive in the new era of global trade. Is your business ready for the shift? Now is the time to explore new sourcing opportunities and strengthen your supply chain resilience.

Prudential tài trợ Hiệp hội MDRT, thúc đẩy sự thành công và phát triển chất lượng tư vấn viên

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Vào tháng 02 vừa qua, Tập đoàn Prudential plc (“Prudential”) đã thông báo thỏa thuận tài trợ cao cấp (premier sponsor) trong ba năm tới với MDRT (Million Dollar Round Table), hiệp hội toàn cầu của các chuyên gia hàng đầu trong lĩnh vực bảo hiểm nhân thọ và dịch vụ tài chính.

Mục tiêu của thỏa thuận này giúp tăng tốc quá trình phát triển chuyên môn các tư vấn viên của Prudential, từ đó củng cố nền tảng thúc đẩy tăng trưởng kênh đại lý và mang đến nhiều giá trị hơn cho khách hàng. Đứng vị trí thứ 2 trong Bảng xếp hạng Top 10 Công ty đa quốc gia hàng đầu, Prudential đang sở hữu một trong những lực lượng tư vấn viên lớn nhất toàn cầu.

Thỏa thuận tài trợ được ký bởi ông Pankaj Banerjee, Phó Tổng Giám đốc Kênh đại lý (Group CAO) của Tập đoàn Prudential và bà Carol Kheng, Chủ tịch MDRT năm 2025. Thỏa thuận này sẽ khởi động một loạt các sáng kiến nhằm truyền cảm hứng và trao quyền cho các tư vấn viên của Prudential, giúp họ mang đến trải nghiệm tốt nhất cho khách hàng. Một trong những sáng kiến này là chương trình vinh danh MDRT, được thiết kế riêng có tên gọi PRUMDRT, với mục tiêu tôn vinh những tư vấn viên tinh hoa của Prudential, những người thể hiện được sự chuyên nghiệp, niềm đam mê đặc biệt với nghề nghiệp của mình.

Ông Pankaj Banerjee, Phó Tổng Giám đốc Kênh đại lý (Group CAO) của Tập đoàn Prudential plc (phải) và Bà Carol Kheng, Chủ tịch MDRT 2025 (trái), đã tham dự lễ ký kết tài trợ tại Bangkok, Thái Lan. 

Năm 2024, Prudential Việt Nam được ghi nhận xếp hạng nhất tại Việt Nam và top 12 toàn cầu trong bảng xếp hạng MDRT, đánh dấu năm thứ 2 liên tiếp doanh nghiệp này dẫn đầu về số lượng thành viên MDRT tại thị trường Việt Nam, khẳng định chiến lược phát triển bền vững và nỗ lực không ngừng trong việc nâng cao chất lượng đội ngũ tư vấn viên.

Dựa vào thỏa thuận này, MDRT và Prudential đang hợp tác để xây dựng các chương trình phát triển chuyên môn và đào tạo chuyên biệt, tạo đà cho sự phát triển của các thành viên MDRT của Prudential tăng tốc trong sự nghiệp.  

Với sự hỗ trợ từ hệ sinh thái MDRT, Prudential sẽ tận dụng nguồn tài nguyên phong phú từ Học viện MDRT (MDRT Academy), cung cấp nền tảng vững chắc cho các tư vấn viên đang phấn đấu đạt được danh hiệu MDRT. Đồng thời, Prudential sẽ hợp tác với Trung tâm lãnh đạo thực chiến (MDRT Center for Field Leadership) để giúp đội ngũ quản lý kinh doanh nâng cao kỹ năng quản lý, cải thiện hiệu quả hoạt động của kênh đại lý và xây dựng văn hóa xuất sắc cho đội nhóm. Bên cạnh đó, các tư vấn viên cũng sẽ có cơ hội tiếp cận nội dung đào tạo do các chuyên gia là thành viên MDRT dẫn dắt.

Những sáng kiến ​​này sẽ trao quyền cho các thành viên MDRT của Prudential nâng cao năng lực, củng cố uy tín trong kinh doanh và nghề nghiệp, đồng thời nâng tầm dịch vụ cung cấp cho khách hàng – qua đó hỗ trợ họ xây dựng mối quan hệ bền vững và sâu sắc hơn với khách hàng.

UNICEF Representative in Vietnam: Tuition Fee Exemption Marks a Major Step Forward

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Ms. Silvia Danailov, UNICEF Representative in Vietnam, said that the decision to exempt all tuition fees for students from kindergarten to high school in public schools is an important step towards inclusion and creating equal opportunities for all children.

Latest Update on Singer Lynda Trang Dai’s Arrest in the US

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In a document sent to the Orange County Prosecutor’s Office, pursuant to Article 3.160(a) of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, Lynda Trang Dai (U.S. name: Ngo, Lynda TrangDai Le) entered a plea of ​​’Not guilty’ and requested to be absent from the upcoming trial.

According to VietNamNet, the official website of the Orange County Clerk of Court (Florida, USA) has updated the developments in the case of singer Lynda Trang Dai being charged with petty theft .

Specifically, in a document sent to the Orange County Prosecutor’s Office, pursuant to Article 3.160(a) of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, Lynda Trang Dai (US name: Ngo, Lynda TrangDai Le) entered a plea of ​​”Not guilty” and requested to be absent from the upcoming trial.

Pursuant to Article 3.220(a) of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, the singer’s legal representative requested that the prosecution provide documents and information related to the case, including witness lists, transcripts of statements, investigation reports, physical evidence, records of electronic surveillance, searches or seizures, etc.

In addition, singer Lynda Trang Dai also requested that the case be tried by jury. The request to change the lawyer from Mr. Joel Leppard to Ms. Josephine Arroyo was approved by the Court.

Regarding the incident, Tien Phong newspaper reported that in the case file posted on the Orange County Court Clerk’s website, Lynda Trang Dai was arrested by the police for petty theft, classified as appropriation of property belonging to the group of goods, agricultural products or means of transport worth from 100-750 USD – a minor property theft crime.

According to records, on January 4, Lynda Trang Dai went to buy Gucci perfume at The Mall in Orlando (Florida). The employee said she stole a headphone case (priced at about 330 USD, equivalent to about 8.4 million VND) displayed on the shelf, then hid the item in her bag without paying. Lynda Trang Dai was arrested by police when she returned to the store on January 5.

The singer was taken to the Orange County Jail, where her personal belongings, including her handbag, phone, and necklace, were turned over to a relative. There, she told police that she tried on accessories and then left them on the counter because the headphones were the wrong size.

She explained that she was in a hurry and threw the items on the ground. However, the report signed by Officer Stephen Erickson clearly stated that the camera recorded Lynda Trang Dai taking the accessories and leaving the store.

Lynda Trang Dai was released on bail after posting a $1,000 (nearly VND25.5 million) bond. On her personal page, the singer posted videos and photos of her performances in the US.

Source: baomoi.com

Thu Duc: Man Found in Critical Condition After Stabbing, Neighbors Alerted by Screams

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After screaming, people living on Street No. 3 (Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City) ran out and discovered their neighbor had been stabbed and was in critical condition.

Late on March 5, Ho Chi Minh City Police coordinated with Hiep Binh Phuoc Ward Police (Thu Duc City) to complete the crime scene investigation of a man who was stabbed critically on Highway 3.

By late night on March 5, the crime scene investigation was completed. PHOTO: TRAN DUY KHANH

The victim was identified as Mr. NPH (51 years old), who was stabbed by another man right in front of his house on the above mentioned road.

Local residents said that at 5 p.m. that same day, a man was seen loitering in front of Mr. H’s house. About 20 minutes later, people heard screams on the street and ran out to check, only to see Mr. H. being attacked multiple times with a weapon by the man.

Mr. H. collapsed on the street with open wounds in several places on his body. There were many blood stains at the scene.

Discovering the incident, many people rushed in to control the suspect. The victim was taken to the emergency room in critical condition .

Upon receiving the news, professional units quickly arrived to block off, examine the scene, and arrest the suspect.

Initially, authorities determined that the cause of the accident stemmed from a love conflict.

The incident is under further investigation.

Disabled Lottery Ticket Seller Robbed in Dong Nai, Suspect Detained

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The suspect who robbed a disabled lottery ticket seller was arrested by the police 8 hours after committing the crime.

On March 6, Loc An Commune Police (Long Thanh District, Dong Nai) is detaining Chau Thanh Phong (38 years old, residing in Dai Phuoc Commune, Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai) and preparing a file to hand over to the Dong Nai Provincial Police Investigation Agency to investigate according to authority for the act of property robbery .

Suspect Chau Thanh Phong with evidence PHOTO: DONG NAI POLICE

According to initial investigation, at around 10:00 a.m. on March 5, Mr. TMC (62 years old, residing in Loc An commune, Long Thanh district, Dong Nai), a lottery ticket seller (a disabled person who must use a wheelchair – PV), was walking on a road in Bung Co hamlet (Loc An commune) when a young man on a motorbike approached and snatched his bag , inside of which was about 4 million VND and 2 cell phones.

Upon receiving the report, Loc An Commune Police coordinated with the Criminal Police Department of Dong Nai Provincial Police and Dai Phuoc Commune Police to investigate and arrest the suspect.

At around 6 p.m. the same day, the police arrested Chau Thanh Phong and seized evidence including two phones of the victim and the motorbike Phong used to commit the robbery.

Source: thanhnien.vn

Hoan Kiem Lake Heritage Site Faces Capacity Challenges

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The leader of the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association assessed that expanding the heritage space of Hoan Kiem Lake ( Hanoi ) is very necessary but needs to be placed in the overall ‘picture’ to expand in order of priority.

Expanding Hoan Kiem Lake space is necessary

Speaking with Thanh Nien , Dr. Architect Dao Ngoc Nghiem, Vice President of the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association, expressed that in the current context, expanding the heritage space of Hoan Kiem Lake (Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi) is very necessary and should be done.

Hoan Kiem Lake is associated with the legend of King Le Loi returning the sword to the divine turtle. PHOTO: NGUYEN TRUONG

According to Dr. Architect Dao Ngoc Nghiem, expanding the space of Hoan Kiem Lake to create connections with surrounding areas has been a problem since 1995. However, after 30 years, this has not been possible due to lack of investment capital and land clearance costs.

Regarding the policy of researching planning and renovating the area east of Hoan Kiem Lake in the direction of increasing public space and open space, Dr. Architect Dao Ngoc Nghiem suggested that the authorities need to have an overall picture.

In the “picture”, it must show how the expansion to the east of Hoan Kiem Lake is, how the west is, then the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square area, the area where milestone number 0 is located… At the same time, there must be a connection with underground station C9 of urban railway line No. 2, Nam Thang Long – Tran Hung Dao section (under Dinh Tien Hoang street).

Once we have an overall picture, we will choose the priority order of investment in open space around Hoan Kiem Lake. Because currently, on the west side of Hoan Kiem Lake, there is also a statue of King Le Thai To, the king associated with the legend of returning the precious sword to the Golden Turtle God in Hoan Kiem Lake. However, this area is isolated from the space of Hoan Kiem Lake,” said Mr. Nghiem.

People hope that the expansion of Hoan Kiem Lake will soon become a reality. PHOTO: NGUYEN TRUONG

Hope it comes true soon

Upon hearing the news that the Hanoi People’s Committee had a policy to expand the space of Hoan Kiem Lake, Mr. Vu Hai Bang (76 years old, in Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District) expressed his joy and excitement.

According to Mr. Bang, every day many people come to Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the scenery. Currently, the open space around Hoan Kiem Lake is still very modest. “Expanding public space around Hoan Kiem Lake is very practical. This not only benefits the current generation but also our future generations. I hope this will soon become a reality,” Mr. Bang said.

Architect Tran Huy Anh, Standing Member of the Hanoi Architects Association, assessed that the policy of expanding public space around Hoan Kiem Lake recently proposed by the Hanoi People’s Committee is “a bit slow but never too late”.

“This is the hope of Hanoians. Expanding public space is necessary because Hoan Kiem Lake has never had such a dense density of activities as it does now. This area is overloaded,” said Mr. Anh.

Hoan Kiem Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the center of Hanoi, with an area of ​​about 12 hectares and a circumference of 1.7 km. The name Hoan Kiem appeared in the early 15th century, associated with the legend of King Le Loi returning the precious sword to the divine turtle.

Around Hoan Kiem Lake, there are many headquarters such as Hanoi People’s Committee, Hanoi Post Office, Hanoi Electricity… and many houses. To the east of the lake, there are relics: Bao An Pagoda, Ly Thai To Flower Garden, Ba Kieu Temple…

In addition to the policy of expanding the space east of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi City is also planning and organizing the architectural landscape space of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, where the “shark jaw” (Ham Ca Map) building is located.

Source: thanhnien.vn

Coffee Shop Security Guard Fatally Stabs Man During Dispute in Phan Thiet

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A deadly altercation broke out at a coffee shop in Binh Hung Ward, Phan Thiet City (Binh Thuan Province) when a security guard reportedly used scissors to stab a man, resulting in his death.

In the early hours of March 6, the Binh Thuan Provincial Police’s Investigation Department completed an on-site examination and requested an autopsy on the victim as part of the ongoing investigation.

According to initial police reports, the incident took place around 8:00 p.m. on March 5, near the Victory Monument roundabout in Binh Hung Ward.

Image of the scuffle leading to murder that happened on the night of March 5 in Phan Thiet City CUT FROM CLIP

According to the images recorded by the camera, at the above time, in the area selling rolled ice cream, there was a fight between Mr. Le Duc Th. (47 years old, temporarily residing in Binh Hung Ward, Phan Thiet City – security guard of the coffee shop behind the rolled ice cream shop) and Mr. Nguyen Van T. (24 years old, residing in Phu Tai Ward). Mr. Th. used a chair to hit Mr. T. who was standing at the rolled ice cream cart.

At this time, another young man sitting at the table at the ice cream shop also jumped in to fight. Suddenly, the coffee shop security guard used scissors on the ice cream cart table to stab Mr. T. The victim was taken to the hospital for emergency treatment but died shortly after.

The cause of the fight that led to the murder was determined to be that Mr. Th. accidentally hit the rolled ice cream table while driving a customer’s bike, leading to an argument. It is known that T. was a friend of the owner of the rolled ice cream cart, and the victim was there to visit when the murder occurred.

Source: thanhnien.vn

American Tourist Reveals 4 Common Mistakes After 3 Weeks Traveling in Vietnam

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Gentry Hale, an American tourist, spent three weeks traveling around Vietnam and made some avoidable mistakes.

“Last October, I spent nearly a month exploring Vietnam and was in awe of the country’s surreal landscapes, amazing food, and kind people,” American tourist Gentry Hale told Business Insider .

From kayaking in Ha Long Bay to exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, every moment was amazing. However, despite her love for the trip, she also encountered mistakes along the way.

American female tourist on the train street in Hanoi PHOTO: GENTRY HALE

Here are four mistakes Gentry Hale made that, in retrospect, she says, could have been easily avoided with proper preparation:

First, not fully understanding the customs

Vietnam’s beautiful and friendly culture was one of the highlights of the trip, but she admitted that she hadn’t done enough research on local customs.

“For example, I didn’t realize that pointing with your fingers is considered impolite in Vietnam and that locals often use their whole hands to gesture,” she wrote.

Also, while Google Translate is helpful, it would be nice to learn some basic Vietnamese words and phrases before arriving. While many of the locals she encountered spoke some English, they seemed to appreciate it when visitors could ask simple questions and share greetings in Vietnamese.

Scenery in Hue PHOTO: CLEMENT LEONARD

Second, choosing too many stops in one trip

Before arriving, she thought she would have nearly 3 weeks to see everything on her list: Hanoi , Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and some other places in the Central region.

“What I didn’t realise was that Vietnam is huge and that although it looks like a narrow strip of land on the map, it can take hours – even days – to get from one place to another. I spent more time travelling than I wanted, from 16-hour overnight trains to all-day buses, which ate up a lot of my time.

So if I could do it again, I would focus on a few areas and spend more time in each area instead of trying to see every place on my list,” she emphasized.

Due to unforeseen time constraints, there were many things on her wish list that she did not have the chance to do, such as riding a motorbike in the Ha Giang loop in the Northwest.

She regrets not having ridden a motorbike to explore the Ha Giang loop. PHOTO: GENTRY HALE

Third, not bringing the right gear

Vietnam’s climate can vary depending on where you live, something she learned the hard way.

“Unfortunately, I didn’t check the weather forecast for each city carefully before leaving home so I didn’t pack my suitcase accordingly.

For example, I started my trip in Ho Chi Minh City in early October, which felt like a sauna due to the high temperature and humidity. However, two weeks later, I was in Hanoi, where the weather was cooler and there was more rain,” said Gentry Hale.

After hiking through the woods, exploring caves, and strolling the streets, she wished she had brought more breathable clothing.

She made a mistake by not thoroughly researching the weather in different regions of Vietnam. PHOTO: VITHUN KHAMSONG

Although most of the hotels she stayed at offered laundry services, there weren’t enough options to accommodate her desire to change her clothes.

“If you plan to visit Vietnam, I recommend bringing cool, light, layered clothes in case the weather changes, and a spare outfit in case you sweat faster than expected,” she shares.

Fourth, don’t know how to bargain

“One of my favourite things about Vietnam is wandering through the bustling markets. I picked up designer silk dresses in Hoi An, bought handmade leather goods in Hanoi and sampled some of the best food I’ve ever had at street stalls.

I loved going to the market but then realized I was paying too much for items, especially early in the trip,” she said.

While bargaining is a common part of market culture in Vietnam, it’s not something she would normally do back home.

Hale learned how to bargain when shopping in Vietnam. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

At first, she was also unsure of how much some things typically cost in this area, so she found it easiest to avoid negotiating and just pay whatever the seller asked.

“As my travels continued and I became more confident, I started asking for lower prices or package deals and realized that haggling wasn’t as big of an issue. Vendors were used to it and I could work with them to make smarter purchases.

Maybe I could have saved some money if I had approached this buying culture sooner.”

Source: thanhnien.vn

Vietnam Announces Public Holiday Schedule: 5-Day Break for April 30 – May 1, 3-Day Weekend for Hung Kings Commemoration Day

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This year, people across Vietnam will enjoy an extended public holiday, with five consecutive days off for Reunification Day (April 30) and International Labor Day (May 1). The break will begin on Wednesday, April 30, and last until the end of Sunday, May 4. To compensate for the extended holiday, employees will be required to work on Saturday, April 26.

Meanwhile, the Hung Kings Commemoration Day, which falls on Monday, April 7 (the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month), will give workers a three-day weekend from April 5 to April 7, as it follows the regular Saturday–Sundayweekend.

For government offices, public employees, and workers following a standard Monday-to-Friday schedule, these holiday arrangements will apply uniformly. However, organizations and businesses with different working schedules are encouraged to arrange holidays based on their specific operational needs.

In cases where work requirements demand employees to work during public holidays, businesses may request staff to work overtime, subject to their agreement. According to the 2019 Labor Code, those who work on public holidays are entitled to extra pay under Article 98. Specifically, daytime work during Tet (Lunar New Year) is paid at 300% of the standard wage, while nighttime shifts on holidays and Tet are paid at 390% of the regular daily wage.

These upcoming holiday periods are expected to create favorable conditions for domestic tourism, family gatherings, and leisure activities across the country.

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