Tuesday 25 October 2022

Not-to-Be-Missed Sydney Sport Events

ICC Men's T20 World Cup | 22 October – 9 November

Warmer days and balmy nights punctuated by the excitement of premier events brings a buzz to the city that's entirely unique. You'll feel the crackle in the air when the ICC Men's T20 World Cup rolls into town. There are seven matches in this hotly contested cricket competition that will be hosted at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. First up is a classic New Zealand versus Australia match-up, meaning there will be lots of grandstand bantering from fans. As the Aussies are the defending champs, we're confident you'll see the green and gold make a ton of runs.

Looking for a cool space to celebrate or commiserate pre or post a T20 game? Then put Loam, at the newly opened Ace Hotel in Surry Hills on your radar. Enjoy fun dishes like a portobello tonkatsu burger with perfectly executed drinks and cool company.


Aqua Rugby Festival | 10-12 November

Combine rugby, yachts and sunny afternoons by water's edge and you've got a festival that could only happen in Sydney. Aqua Rugby is a relatively new sporting phenomenon held in Manly Cove, where players go full contact mode as they duck and weave across a 30m x 30m pontoon to score a try (by jumping in the ocean). There's plenty of excitement for sports fans as they watch from the shoreline or soak up the water views from the luxury of a private yacht for the afternoon. Ready to refuel? Manly has plenty of sleek bars, elegant restaurants and classic pubs but The Tropic at the Wharf Bar is the top spot to sit and celebrate the Aqua Rugby Festival. After something more intimate but no less cool? Then a session at Italian eatery Belgrave Cartel is for you.


Sydney Super Cup | 17, 20 and 23 November

The inaugural Sydney Super Cup sees English Premier League club Everton clash against Scottish Premier League champions Celtic in an on-field battle of the ages. Ange Postecoglou is the Australian coach of the Celtic team and one of the most decorated Aussie soccer coaches in history. Will he lead the Celtics to victory, or will Everton seal the deal? All will be revealed in this nail-biting match between world class teams - it's an evenly matched game that could go either way and part of a blockbuster series that will see Everton take on Western Sydney Wanderers on November 20 at the CommBank Stadium and Celtic take on Sydney FC at the newly opened Allianz Stadium on November 23. Salute the day and toast to the evening at the nearby Ruse Bar and Brasserie.

Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au

Monday 24 October 2022

Travelodge Resort's Darwin Street Art Festival Debut: Just Another Reason To Stay and Play in the Top End!

Hot on the heels of its Wet Season makeover in 2020, Travelodge Resort Darwin has undergone another dramatic transformation with the addition of a two-storey high mural by artist Lisa King as part of this year's Darwin Street Art Festival.

Director of Operations ANZ, Tish Nyar, said TFE Hotels was no stranger to the Darwin Street Art Festival, with the Indigenous-owned Adina-Vibe Darwin Waterfront* undergoing a similar transformation back in 2020 thanks to the addition of a five-storey pastel mural by NZ-born artist Pennyrose Wiggins.

“Our Adina-Vibe Darwin Waterfront mural features no less than 11 migratory birds and paid tribute to the Territory's Wet Season, so it's fitting that this year the Travelodge's mural honours proud Danggalaba Kulumbirigin^ woman, Mililma May.

Travelodge Darwin is the only hotel to participate and this year's festival, with Australian multi-disciplinary artist and large-scale muralist, Lisa King, recently put the finishing touches to her portrait of Mililma at the busy Cavenagh and Lindsay Street intersection in Darwin's CBD.

Festival Producer, Jo Shearn, said Mililma was a staunch Danggalaba Kulumbirigin Tiwi woman living, working, and creating on Kulumbirigin Country and was a fitting subject for the Travelodge artwork.

“Malila and Lisa spent time together on Larrakia land prior to the mural being started in order for the work to be a truly genuine representation of Milima's strength and power as a young Danggalaba Kulumbirigin woman. She generously gifted Travelodge Resort Darwin a beautiful poem to accompany the portrait.”


DANGGALABA KULUMBIRIGIN WOMAN

I am Dedja Batcho.
I am her daughters and her sons: Victor, Lindy,
Bartrum, Keith, Yula, Lucy, Emily, Mary and
Rona.
I am Dedja Batcho's grand-children, who
themselves are parents and grandparents of
many.
I am my nieces and nephews, and my children
and grandchildren to come.
You can tell who we are by our stance, smiles
and frown.
We are the Danggalaba Kulumbirigin.
The descendants of traditional custodians of
this country where we sit and bathe in the sun.

Travelodge Resort General Manager, Lucy Ockleston, said the team were thrilled to play a small part in honouring Mililma and looked forward to unveiling another mural in the not-too-distant future.

“When the Darwin Street Art Festival team approached us to partner again this year, we knew we had two perfect walls to not only showcase the artwork but to give the festival fantastic exposure,” she said. “With Lisa King's artwork complete, we are very much looking forward to unveiling our second enormous six-storey mural sometime in the future.”

“Watch this space… quite literally.”

Both of the hotel murals form part of Darwin's CBD self-guided Street Art Tourist Trail which can be accessed by downloading the DSAF app. The Adina-Vibe artwork can be viewed from the pedestrian Sky Bridge leading to the Darwin Waterfront precinct and from street level whilst the Travelodge mural is best seen from the corner of Lindsay and Cavenagh Streets.

Rooms at Travelodge Resort Darwin start from $159.20. For more information on the Darwin Street Art Festival visit: https://www.darwinstreetartfestival.com.au/

*The Travelodge Resort Darwin and Adina-Vibe Darwin Waterfront proudly operate on Larrakia lands. Adina-Vibe Darwin Waterfront is a joint venture between Indigenous Business Australia and TOGA Group.

^A Larrakia clan of Darwin named after the estuarine crocodile.

Website: https://www.tfehotels.com/en/about/media-lounge/

Wyndham Destinations Concluding Multi-Million Dollar Refurbishment at Ramada Shoal Bay

Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific has wrapped up an almost $3 million refurbishment of rooms and common areas at Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay, located beachfront at Port Stephens.

The refurbishment, which was completed in stages between May and September, included retiling of the indoor and outdoor pools, a refreshed reception area and updating 56 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including standard, Grand, Deluxe and Presidential categories.

“We used the resort's incredible position right on the beach and the vibrancy of the Shoal Bay community as inspiration for this refurbishment of the apartments and reception areas,” said Senior Vice President of Acquisitions, Procurement, Property Development and Technical Services, David Wray.

“As part of our refresh, the apartments were repainted and we replaced most of the furniture, bedding and window furnishings and replaced the flooring with high-quality vinyl in the living areas. We conduct these refurbishments on a cycle in order to continually raise the standard of our properties, improve the experience members and guests enjoy, and show our commitment to the Port Stephens region.”

Ramada Shoal Bay is a mixed-use property providing accommodation to both the general public and members of Club Wyndham South Pacific, one of Asia Pacific's leading timeshare clubs. Adjacent is the independently owned Shoal Bay Country Club, iconic home of Mermaids Café, lunch and dinner restaurant The Kitchen & Patio and Greek restaurant Atmos, along with event spaces.

The property is one of Club Wyndham South Pacific's most popular resorts, with the refurbished rooms enjoying an average occupancy of 92 per cent currently, and forecast to hit similar levels for the next eight months.

“The last two years have been challenging for projects like this but thanks to the great work of our property development team, our project contractors and the understanding of our members and guests, we have been able to finish this work on time and budget,” Mr Wray added.

This year, additional equipment has also been added to the onsite gym while new furniture was rolled out around the resort pools, including four cabanas, 65 sun loungers, bean bags and umbrellas. Hundreds of thousands of dollars of new furniture has also been installed in 53 hotel rooms available to the general public, with further updates forecast.

Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific's sustainability credentials have been widely praised within the hospitality industry and they have guided this refurbishment. All quality furniture left after the project was donated to local non-profits and the mattresses were taken to Soft Landing for recycling, to reduce the impact on landfill.

Club Wyndham South Pacific apartments are updated according to a regular refurbishment schedule so they continue to look fresh and modern. They are principally used by the club's members but can be accessed by the general public when members choose to exchange their vacation credits for accommodation elsewhere.

Website: https://www.wyndhamap.com

Sunday 23 October 2022

International visitors to Vietnam in the third quarter increased by 2.5 times to the second quarter of 2022

International visitors in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo internet
According to the General Statistics Office, in January - September 2022, Vietnam welcomed over 1.8 million international visitor arrivals, reaching about 30% of the 2022 target (5 million arrivals) and still 85.4% lower than the same period in 2019.

The number of international visitors in the third quarter 2022 was 1.2 million arrivals, while the number in the second quarter was 510 thousand arrivals.

South Korea is the largest source market with 489.4 thousand arrivals, accounting for 26% of the total number of international arrivals. The US ranked second with 176.6 thousand, occupy nearly 9%. The Indian market has a strong uptrend, reaching 61.3 thousand arrivals in the first nine months of the year, and 15,000 arrivals in September alone, higher than the same period in 2019.

International markets are recovering, but unevenly. Visitors from Singapore and Laos in September 2022 only decreased by 20% and 24% respectively over the same period in 2019. In the opposite direction, the Chinese and Russian markets were almost frozen, down 98% and 92%. Taiwan (-82%) and Japan (-73%) also have no positive signs. Northeast Asia has the slowest recovered due to strict disease prevention policies.

The domestic tourism market has fully recovered with 86.8 million visitor arrivals in Jan-Sep 2022. Total tourism receipt in the first 9 months of 2022 is estimated at 394.2 trillion VND, 78% of the same period in 2019.

Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: #International visitor, #domestic visitor, #the first nine months,

The finest travel offered by East Japan Railway Company

Japan is a country of never-ending discovery, with the different regions offering their own special experiences set to the backdrop of the country's four distinct and beautiful seasons.

Apart from JR East's regular services, we offer a number of exclusive experiences designed to allow passengers to discover Japan in new ways. Each experience offers meticulous and considered experiences to make your trip the best it can be.

Here are three of the most luxurious experiences JR East has to offer:

SAPHIR ODORIKO

JR East's SAPHIR ODORIKO takes travellers to one of Japan's leading tourist destinations – Izu. The peninsula sits 100 km to the southwest of Tokyo and is known for its beautiful blue sea and white sandy beaches.

“Saphir” is French for Sapphire, and the name represents the luxury and elegance of this trip along with the imagery of the beautiful blue sea and sky of Izu.

Travellers can take in the beauty of the ocean in any of the cars with the train travelling right alongside the water for parts of the trip. JR East's first-class cars are known as Green Cars but on the SAPHIR ODORIKO - every car is a Green Car. Passengers can enjoy the spacious and comfortable seats in the regular cars, more private and peaceful seats in the Premium Green Cars or can book private rooms for groups of up to 6 people

SAPHIR ODORIKO has skylights and large windows in every car, putting you right in the middle of the scenery passing by.

The train also features a cafeteria car serving up meals and drinks fitting of luxury travel. Patrons can dine at tables or at the bar-style seats, facing the ocean. If you are travelling in a private room, meals and drinks will be delivered to your room.

SAPHIR ODORIKO InformationPrices vary depending on the route and category of car. For example, a one-way trip in the Premium Green Car from Tokyo Station to the last stop, Izukyu-Shimoda Station, costs 12,130 yen. This information is as of October 2022.
How to book the Premium Green (Car No. 1) or the Green Cars (Cars No. 5-8): Reservations are available at Ticket Reservation Offices at JR stations and on the JR-EAST Train Reservation website from 10:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time one month prior to the departure of your train from its first station (the same day of the previous month).
How to book the Green Car private compartment (Cars No. 2-3):
On sale at Ticket Reservation Offices at JR stations and reserved seat ticket machines from 10:00 a.m. one month prior to the departure of your train from its first station (the same day of the previous month) (not available online).
For more information, please visit the website.
SAPHIR ODORIKO website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/saphir/en/
JR-EAST Train Reservation website: https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index

Shinkansen Gran Class

For those looking to travel in style on JR East's Shinkansen - Gran Class might be for you. JR East Shinkansen has "Reserved Seats" (economy class) and "Green Car" (first class), but the Tohoku and Hokkaido Shinkansen, Hokuriku Shinkansen, and Joetsu Shinkansen, which features E5 and E7 Series trains, also have "Gran Class", the most premium space available.

Gran Class offers a sophisticated and high quality interior space and experience for passengers. The spacious reclining seats are made from genuine leather and wool and are ergonomic, making longer trips extra comfortable for passengers.

Gran Class cars only have 18 seats per car with six rows of three seats, allowing for plenty of room for each passenger.

Onboard, a dedicated Gran Class Attendant will assist passengers with refreshments (light meals) and beverages to make their train journey more comfortable.

In addition, in-car amenities such as slippers and a blanket, will be offered.

Refreshments will be available from October 1, 2022 in two varieties, Western and Japanese, according to customers' preferences. We are also working to reduce the number of items discarded by reviewing our serving methods from the perspective of our Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Shinkansen Gran Class InformationGran Class service is offered on Tohoku and Hokkaido Shinkansen (Series E5 and H5), Hokuriku Shinkansen (Series E7 and W7), and Joetsu Shinkansen (Series E7). Please note, refreshments may not be available in certain Gran Class cars.
Prices vary depending on the section of your travel. For example, a one-way trip in Gran Class (with beverages and snacks) from Tokyo Station to Sendai Station, costs 20,310 yen. This information is current as of October 2022.
How to book: Designated tickets will be available at Ticket Reservation Offices at JR stations and on the JR-EAST Train Reservation website from 10:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time, one month prior to the departure of your train from its first station (the same day of the previous month).
Website: https://www.jreast.co.jp/granclass/en/
JR-EAST Train Reservation: https://www.eki-net.com/en/jreast-train-reservation/Top/Index


TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA

TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA embodies JR East's concept of luxury with a meticulous attention to detail and service like no other.

The train, which celebrates its 5th anniversary in 2022, is JR East's supreme luxury experience and offers a series of different itineraries, each designed to take passengers deep into Japan's nature, history and culture. Different itineraries take passengers to different regions in eastern Japan and southern Hokkaido and are designed to work in concert with the seasons.

Dubbed a “cruise train”, TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA offers the ultimate in hospitality with a luxury dining experience in its Dining Shiki-shima car, featuring dishes made from seasonal ingredients from various places along the way.

Passengers can also relax with a cocktail in Lounge Komorebi in front of the fireplace and the piano. The sophisticated lounge features design elements reminiscent of trees with branches stretching up to the ceiling.

If you just want to watch the world pass by, head up to the observatory car at the front and rear of the train - the View Terrace Kizashi / Ibuki cars. Here passengers are surrounded by windows. The design allows passengers to enjoy the view whether they are standing or sitting.

All passengers have their own private suites from the beautiful and intimate suites in the Suite Room to the elegance of the Deluxe Suite Room and Shiki-shima Suite Room. The Deluxe Suite Room features high ceilings, its own fireplace and cypress bath, while the Shiki-shima Suite is a two-storey suite featuring a Japanese tatami room on the top floor and its own cypress bath.

TRAIN SUITE SHIKI-SHIMA InformationPrices range from JPY 370,000 to JPY 1,000,000 per person for a twin room for a 1 night 2 days trip. This information is current as of October 2022.
How to book: Please apply through our website. Due to the limited number of suites available, a lottery will be held if there are too many applications. https://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/application.html

Saturday 22 October 2022

Ninh Thuan Culture and Tourism Days underway in Ha Noi

Special dishes of Ninh Thuan province. Photo hanoimoi
Ninh Thuan Culture and Tourism Days was organized in pedestrian street area in Ha Noi’s downtown district of Hoan Kiem last weekend to highlight cultural features and tourism potential of the central province of Ninh Thuan.

Addressing the event, Chairman of the Ninh Thuan Province People's Committee Tran Quoc Nam said that despite the geographical distance, there have been many activities to promote comprehensive cooperation between Ha Noi City and Ninh Thuan Province over the past time, contributing to the promotion of economy, society, cultural exchange, and tourism development.

Diverse art programs like Cham dance have been showcased at the event to introduce visitors with the cultures and traditional arts of ethnic groups from Ninh Thuan Province. Visitors can play ethnic musical instruments themselves or try special dishes of the province.

Cham dance. Photo TITC
Another activity is photo exhibition displaying the province's tourism potential, cultural heritages and tourist attractions. Moreover, its tourism promotion has been shown via the screening of videos, the introduction of tours and free distribution of handbooks, maps, brochures and postcards to tourists.

Running from September 30 to October 2, the event features over 50 booths highlighting One Commune, One Product (OCOP) products, tourist products, signature dishes and specialties of Ninh Thuan to Hanoians.

Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: #Ninh Thuan, #Culture and Tourism Days,

Destination BC encourages Australian Travellers to Find Themselves in British Columbia

Canada's gateway province of British Columbia (BC) is embarking on a campaign to invite Australian travellers to experience the raw power of BC's nature, and to explore not just new sights, but new sides of themselves, in Super, Natural British Columbia®.

The campaign labelled The Find Yourself is geared toward Australia visitors whose known trip motivators connect directly with travel experiences in abundance in BC. By showcasing mountain and wildlife experiences through towering mountains, lush rainforests, and rugged coastlines, audiences are urged to tap into something bigger – to awaken a deeper connection and regain perspective; to find themselves, in every sense of the word, in British Columbia.

The campaign leverages a variety of traditional and digital advertising tactics, and an investment in co-op marketing with key tour operators including Helloworld, Entire Travel Company and Natural Focus Safaris. These tour operators will promote the campaign messaging in their own marketing campaigns with a variety of BC itinerary offerings.

The concept was first introduced to these markets in Destination BC's robust BC Effect campaign introducing audiences to BC's healing effects in nature and to capitalise on this momentum, Destination BC Find Yourself campaign encourages travellers to turn this previous inspiration for BC into trip planning and booking, now.

Website: https://www.HelloBC.com

Friday 21 October 2022

Preservation of traditional cultural values in Hoi An city

Bai Choi singing in Hoi An city
With the aim of sustainable development and joining the UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN), Hoi An city (Quang Nam province) is making efforts to preserve and promote the values of its traditional craft villages and folk art.

According to Mr. Nguyen Van Quy - Deputy Director of the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation, Hoi An has recently paid attention to the conservation and promotion of traditional crafts or craft villages.

Until now, there have been four crafts in the city recognised as national intangible cultural heritages, including the bird nest harvesting profession in Thanh Chau, carpentry in Kim Bong, pottery in Thanh Ha and vegetable farming in Tra Que.

Mr. Nguyen Viet Lam - a young craftsman in Thanh Ha pottery village felt proud of his family's pottery making. Besides the traditional products, there are new products to meet visitors’ demands.

The Center for Culture, Sports and Radio & Television of Hoi An has provided folk singing classes for schools and for children in the old quarter, organising Bai Choi performance contests, introducing Bai Choi to domestic and international events...

In particular, the game of Bai Choi taking place every night in Hoi An ancient town has become a unique tourism product that attracts a large number of visitors.

Traditional craft villages and folk art are the key Hoi An city (Quang Nam province) uses on the journey to approach the goal of the UNESO’s Ceative Cities Network.

The city will develop a long-term project to promote local cultural industry, including traditional crafts and folk art, creating development resources for Hoi An culture and helping Hoi An become a local and international creative destination.

Source: QNN - quangnamnews.vn
Tags: #Hoi An, #Creative Cities Network, #cultural heritage,

Thredbo Launches Biggest Ever Summer Offering, Unveiling Brand New Cruiser MTB Area

Thredbo is unveiling its biggest ever 2022-23 summer offering, featuring mountain biking, hiking, wellness retreats, a packed events calendar and more. 
  • Thredbo's summer season of hiking and mountain biking officially begins on 19 November 2022, running through to 25 April 2023.
  • 2022-23 mountain biking and hiking season passes are available to purchase now as well as day passes, rental and lessons.
  • Thredbo has announced several exciting developments to the Thredbo MTB Park including three beginner to intermediate gravity trails in the new Cruiser MTB area.
  • Thredbo Guided Hikes will host unique hiking experiences including full moon hikes, sunset hikes and a new Aries Tor Hike.

Today, Australia's premier adventure destination is excited to launch its biggest ever summer offering, with the resort set to open for mountain biking and hiking on 19 November 2022 and run until 25 April 2023.

From mountain biking to hiking, wellness retreats, a jam-packed events calendar and more, Thredbo's wide range of outdoor activities makes it the ultimate summer escape for adventure lovers and chill seekers alike.

Thredbo General Manager, Stuart Diver said Thredbo is gearing up for one of its biggest summers yet as the resort continues to establish itself as the country's number one adventure destination.

“It's been incredible to watch the momentum for outdoor activities continue to build year on year and we have been working hard to ensure that we meet the demand. Our goal is to deliver the ultimate summer adventure so we are thrilled to have made our offering bigger and better for guests to enjoy throughout the 2022-23 season,” Mr Diver said.

Thredbo Takes Gravity Riding to the Next Level

Thredbo is expanding the Mountain Bike Park this summer with the new Cruiser area, unveiling three gravity trails for beginners and intermediates; Paparazzi, Grasshopper and Easy Rider. Additionally, the Cruiser Chairlift and Gunbarrel Chairlift will both have new state-of-the-art bike carriers installed, increasing Gunbarrel's uplift capacity by over forty per cent.

As Australia's premier biking destination, the Thredbo MTB Park will now cover over forty kilometres of Australia's best terrain accessible by four lifts, making it the country's only lift-accessed gravity trails. In addition to the new developments, everyone's favourite trails will be returning this summer including Sidewinder, Ricochet and the infamous Cannonball Downhill as well as multiple cross-country trails and a fast-flowing pump track.

MTB Business Manager, Tim Windshuttle said the Cruiser area is set to be a game changer for riders of all abilities.

“Not only does the new Cruiser area ensure that beginner and intermediate riders can access more of the mountain, it's also been designed with skill progression in mind so we're excited to see guests take their gravity riding to the next level,” said Mr Windshuttle.

2022/23 MTB Passes are available to purchase now, with Adult Season Passes from $599 and One-Day Adult Passes starting from $95. To ensure a positive guest experience, passes are limited so guests are encouraged to plan ahead and book online in advance. Thredbo Mountain Bike School will be expanding its range of programs, offering Introduction to MTB lessons from $55, and progressive clinics from $85.

Awe-inspiring Hikes to Australia's Summit and Beyond

With access to Australia's highest mountain, Mt Kosciuszko, and over 20 trails, experience endless natural beauty as you hike amongst unique flora and fauna, glacial lakes and mountains as far as the eye can see.

For those looking to get even more out of their next hike, Thredbo provides a Guided Hikes program with experienced local guides who can teach you about the environment, history and culture of the Snowy Mountains. Supported by Land Rover, Thredbo offers guided hikes for all ages and abilities, from a family-friendly Kosciuszko Summit Hike through to a rugged Mt Townsend Hike. Hikers can Summit at Sunset, experience a series of Full Moon Hikes or witness around 120 meteors per hour on a Geminids Meteor Shower Hike. New for 2022, Thredbo Guided Hikes will host an Aries Tor Hike where guests can see the beauty of the Main Range as they walk amongst the granite tors of North Ramshead.

Most alpine hiking trails start from the top of the resort which can be accessed via the Kosciuszko Chairlift. Adult 2022/23 Hiking Season Passes are available to purchase now for $349, with Adult One-Day Scenic Lift Passes starting from $52. Thredbo Guided Hikes start from $59 for adults and $15 for children and include a One-Day Scenic Lift Pass.

An Endless Summer of Events, Experiences, Music and Activities
From adventure lovers to chill seekers, Thredbo has something for everyone this summer with a non-stop calendar of events, competitions, live music and activities. To find out more about the summer events calendar, please click here.

Ready for your summer adventure? Plan your escape at thredbo.com.au.

Thursday 20 October 2022

Thai Nguyen: Tourism in Vo Nhai flourishes

Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area, was invested over 40 billion
VND is an ecological space, forest - stream -
cave complex, attracting tourists.
If in 2021, Vo Nhai only welcomed 12,000 tourists, in 2022, by the end of the National Day holiday (September 2), the district has welcomed over 108 thousand visitors. This data partly shows that Vo Nhai tourism is developing strongly after the COVID-19 epidemic, towards the recovery and flourishing phase.

Located in Phu Thuong commune, Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area is invested more than 40 billion VND, put into operation from June 2019, with ecological space, unique forest - stream - cave complex. In particular, Mo Ga stream is a fantastic water cave that is highly evaluated by experts of the Royal British Cave Association with great potential for developing adventure tourism. During the last National Day holiday, the Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area welcomed over 13,000 visitors.

Ms. Le Thu Trang, Dinh Cong ward, Hoang Mai district (Hanoi), shared: I highly appreciated the service quality at Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area and was impressed with Mo Ga stream. It is stunning and unique. My family will definitely return and spend more time exploring other tourist attractions in Vo Nhai.

During this year's tourist season, Tien Hoa Co., Ltd. - the owner of the Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area, has invested in building many stilt houses according to the typical architecture of local ethnic minorities and supplementing cultural experiences such as Giay day cake, making rice lam, performing Then singing to meet the need of visitors.

Mr. Nong Van Hong, Deputy Director of the Company, said: After 2 years of being affected by the epidemic, we are happy to welcome guests back. However, with the current number of visitors, the company can overcome some difficulties and serve tourists worldwide.

As a land imbued with cultural identities of ethnic minorities, Vo Nhai district has great potential for developing community cultural tourism.

Along with the Phuong Hoang eco-tourism area, Vo Nhai district also recorded an increase in the number of tourists at many other tourist sites in the communes: Than Sa, Thuong Nung, Trang Xa... during the summer vacation and other holidays of the year. In particular, every month, Than Sa commune welcomes thousands of visitors to visit unique monuments and landscapes such as Mai Da Nguom - a place marking an impressive archaeological site dating from the Middle Paleolithic period; Seven-storey waterfall in Trung Son hamlet, Rain waterfall (Mua Roi waterfall) in Kim Son hamlet.

According to Ms. Le Thi Thuy, Vice Chairman of Than Sa Commune People's Committee: The number of visitors to tourist sites in the commune has increased sharply compared to previous years. Soon, we will stick to the district's tourism development orientation to promote and attract local tourist routes.

The Vo Nhai district currently has 82 historical sites and scenic spots, including 5 national and 10 provincial relics. According to the District Department of Culture and Information statistics, from the beginning of 2022 to the end of the National Day holiday (September 2), Vo Nhai welcomed 108.3 thousand tourists. This number of visitors increased sharply compared to 2020 and 2021 and reached the same level as in 2019 - the time before the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic.

Recently, Vo Nhai district and the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism collaborated to implement the project on conservating Tay ethnic traditional hamlet, in Mo Ga hamlet, Phu Thuong commune, with a total investment of over 8.6 billion to preserve and promote the values of cultural space associated with the development of community tourism...

Ms. Vu Thi Hue, Standing Vice Chairman of Vo Nhai District People's Committee, informed us: In the coming time, Vo Nhai will promote the construction of tourism products based on promoting the potential and advantages of the locality. The district focuses on developing eco-tourism associated with agricultural and rural areas and traditional cultural products such as Then singing traditional cuisine and local agricultural products. At the same time, continuing to plan and build projects for tourism development, connecting with districts inside and outside the province to develop tours and tourist routes, thereby improving the people's living standards and developing the local economy.

*Hoang Ha
Source: Thai Nguyen News - baothainguyen.vn - September 24, 2022
Tags: #Thai Nguyen, #Phuong Hoang #eco-tourism,

JW Marriott Gold Coast Presents 'Culinary Stars Showcase at Citrique'

The JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa will host a four-day ‘Culinary Stars Showcase’ at signature dining restaurant Citrique from 7 - 10 November featuring degustation dining, traditional high tea and culinary cooking classes. Award-winning Executive Chef, Paul Smart has invited six local chefs from across South East Queensland to collaborate in a unique culinary exploration that celebrates the best of Queensland’s local produce.

With a commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients from across the state, Smart has hand-picked six local talent to collaborate and devise menus from ocean, Gold Coast hinterland and surrounding farms including:
  • Dayan Hartill-Law | Executive Chef, HOTA Gallery (Gold Coast)
  • Richard Le Deunff | Chef P'tissier, Aux Fines Bouches (Burleigh Heads)
  • Meyjitte Boughenout | Executive Chef, Glass Restaurant
  • Gavin Hughes | Senior Culinary Expert, Miele (Ex-Head Chef, The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa)
  • Angela Brown | Sous Chef, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
  • Emir Kusbeci | Junior Sous Chef, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

Paul Smart’s culinary expertise from his years abroad at the likes of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, The Ritz London and cooking for Her Royal Highness, Queen Elizabeth II has led to a fusion of creativity seen throughout the elevated food and beverage venues across the refurbished JW Marriott Gold Coast.

With the hospitality industry continuing build its way back up over the last few years, Smart has been waiting to create a fresh and exciting offering for hotel guests and local diners.

“Over the last few years, it’s been incredible to watch the development and diversity of local grown produce here in South East Queensland. This series is about bringing together the talent of local chefs, with each of their identities shine through on the plate. Our aim is to take guests on a journey through where each chef has been and what they’ve seen, looking at our rich Queensland produce to develop the menu” said Paul Smart.

“I have either worked or crossed paths in the industry over the past 20 years with this talented group of chefs and it’s exciting to come together with a common purpose - wanting diners to walk away eager to explore the variety and beauty food available here on the coast.”

The JW Marriott Culinary Stars Showcase at Citrique is now available to book online.

The JW Marriott Culinary Stars Showcase at Citrique
7 November - 11 November
158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, QLD

Full Program

Monday 7th November | 6pm | Ocean to plate | Cocktail pairing | $149pp

Chefs: Paul Smart, Richard Le Deunff, Meyjitte Boughenout, Emir Kusbeci
Inspired by ocean to plate dining, indulge in a four-course degustation. Headlining snow fish ceviche, red emperor, ocean beef and oysters, finishing with a veliche dark chocolate tart.

Tuesday 8th November | 6pm | Hinterland to Plate I Wine and Cider pairing | $179pp

Chefs: Dayan Hartill-Law, Angela Brown, Richard Le Deunff, Gavin Hughes, Meyjitte Boughenout
Welcoming ingredients from the hinterland for a five-course degustation. Indulge in zucchini flower, butter poached rainbow trout, wood-fired roasted quail, roasted lamb and Yuzu gold bar.

Wednesday 9th November | 2pm I Traditional High Tea | $79pp

Chefs: Richard Le Deunff, Jeffery Santos
A resort tradition created by the JW Marriott Gold Coast culinary team using local ingredients sourced from the Gold Coast Hinterland. Each homemade product is inspired by the echo of birds in the peaceful and tranquil environment surroundings, finishing with veliche dark chocolate tart.

Wednesday 9th November | 6pm | Farm to Plate I Witches Falls Wine pairing | $199pp

Chefs: Paul Smart, Dayan Hartill-Law, Richard Le Deunff, Gavin Hughes, Meyjitte Boughenout, Angela Brown, Emir Kusbeci
A six-course degustation influenced by Australian flavours and inspired techniques. Seven culinary masters come together to create a mouthwatering journey of lobster and caviar, Daintree barramundi, confit duck, Rocky farm cobia and peach illusion.

Thursday 10 November | 10am | JW Culinary Class | $65pp

Chefs: Paul Smart, Gavin Hughes
Learn from the culinary masters first-hand with an exclusive JW Marriott Gold Coast culinary class. Signature Moreton Bay bug dumplings and peking duck betel leaves.


Thursday 10 November | 6am | Creative to Plate | $129pp

Chefs: Joel Walsh, Bora Jung, Jeffrey Santos, Young Mo Ann, Zenith Gurung and Rodney Anthony

Led by Executive Sous Chef Selva Gopalakrishnan, JW Marriott’s rising star culinary team present a five-course degustation influenced by local Gold Coast produce and unique skills.

Website: https://marriotthoteldeals.com.au

Wednesday 19 October 2022

Hue City: More city tours to serve visitors

Tourists taking photos in the Citadel
As most tourists tend to come to Hue and then book a tour instead of booking in advance, there needs to be a diversity of city tours to meet their demands.

More city tours to serve visitors

When tourism returns to normal, there are quite a few changes in the demands and tastes of tourists when choosing a city tour. In the past, tourists often actively made a booking before coming to Hue, or some travel agencies would contact a city tour company in Hue to book services for their customers. But now, tourists tend to come and book a tour later.

Regarding service demands, besides choosing the city tour products allowing them to visit heritage sites and experience culture, tourists now do not need to go to too many places, but prefer enhancing their experiences, visiting new places and getting closer to nature.

Thereby, businesses are required to be more proactive in exploiting the source of customers and provide new city tour products to meet their demands. According to the Provincial Travel Association, a new city tour, focusing on the depth of Hue culture and taking advantage of its landscape, has been exploited in the past time.

As in the last National Day, city tours such as “hop on hop off” to explore Hue by convertible double-decker bus; shared public bicycles; tours combining with new services such as having afternoon tea on the river, visiting garden houses and enjoying typical and rustic dishes prepared by local people, etc., contributes to helping Hue impress tourists.

Apart from these, Hue heritage exploration city tours as well as Hue discovery tours by cyclo, bicycle, motorbike, and boat are also maintained and exploited. All of these are combined to offer diverse options for tourists traveling to Hue in the past time.

According to Ms. Le Thi Kim Dung, Director of Hue Holiday One Member Limited Liability Company, one of the businesses that effectively exploit information city tours, the business has become more flexible in providing services to adapt to the new changes.

Unlike in the past when tourists often went in groups, there are more individual travelers now; therefore, the company actively finds sources of customers to form groups. To ensure quality pairing, there should not be over 12 customers in each tour. Besides, a number of add-on services are offered. In particular, every company's city tour provides additional herbal foot bath services.

After a day-long city tour, a foot bath is a relaxation that provides guests with a more interesting and impressive experience when coming to Hue.

Though being relatively new, Hue City sight-seeing tours by convertible double-decker bus have been chosen by many tourists. Ms. Duong Thi Cong Ly, Director of Vietnam – Hanoi Tourism Joint Stock Company - Hue Branch, a tour operator, shared that the company initially put into operation two tours, one of which was “City tour - Hue Ancient Capital Heritage Journey” with the highlight of visiting 12 famous spots of Hue City.

Up to now, this is probably the first city tour that takes visitors to most of the spots in Hue City such as Dong Ba Market, the Flag Tower, An Hien Garden, Thien Mu Pagoda, Khai Dinh Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, new destinations such as Thuy Xuan incense village, etc.

The second tour is “Hue Night Sightseeing” which involves passing Phu Xuan Bridge and Da Vien Bridge to enjoy the night view, with new perspectives on the beautiful and ancient city. From exploiting new tours, the business wishes to contribute to increasing the number of new services and products, thereby attracting tourists to stay longer in Hue.

The need for sustainable tours

Although Hue tourism always provides new city tour products from time to time, there is a fact that many city tours are considered very attractive, environmental-friendly and able to promote the advantages of a heritage city, yet unsustainable. These include the tour allowing tourists to wear antique clothes to visit the city by cyclo and tram, or the piloted “food tour” which was then only exploited only for a short time.

Another fact is that some tours provide rewarding experiences for tourists when being individually exploited, but there is a lack of connection between them to create more comprehensive products. For example, the bicycle sharing service is very good, yet it has not been connected to form a city tour by bicycle through the famous tourist attractions of Hue, but stops at merely the service of traveling by bicycle.

Mr. Do Ngoc Co, Chairman of the Provincial Travel Association, said that the association had just held meetings and fortunately, over the past time, businesses had linked and connected together to exploit products. Enterprises jointly exploit a price bracket and offer add-on services to improve the quality. This both reduces unfair competition on prices and supports each other in terms of customers, thereby jointly maintaining the tour operation.

Mr. Nguyen Van Phuc, Director of the Department of Tourism, stated that city tour was a comprehensive solution when it met the actual needs to experience of travelers passionate about discovery, while helping to promote the potentials and particular strengths of the tourism industry and providing visitors with an experience they couldn’t find elsewhere.

In the coming time, the Department of Tourism will continue to research to have new product orientations to welcome international tourists expected increase in number in the coming time, encourage travel agencies and destinations to link and support each other well, contributing to increase the attractiveness and diversity of Hue tourism.

*By DUC QUANG
Source: Hue News - baothuathienhue.vn

Making Waves: Four Seasons to Bring Legendary Service to the Seas Through Launch of Luxury Yacht Experiences

Four Seasons
A steadfast, enterprising spirit is launching Four Seasons into a new and exciting business extension – Four Seasons Yachts. Along with Four Seasons, this new venture brings together an unparalleled group of partners: Nadim Ashi and Philip Levine, leading luxury entrepreneurs and bold visionaries of this exceptional yacht experience, as well as Fincantieri, one of the world's leading shipbuilding groups, which will deliver the first new vessel by the end of 2025. The order, which was announced last July, includes the option for two additional vessels and amounts to approximately EUR 1.2 billion.

The first Four Seasons Yacht will be marked by bespoke craftsmanship, personalized service and a dedication to excellence, appealing to discerning guests looking to reimagine their love of travel by experiencing the splendour of modern sea voyaging.

“Four Seasons Yachts represents the next chapter of our long history of industry leading innovation, and a milestone moment for our company as we continue to capitalize on new opportunities to extend the world of Four Seasons,” says Christian Clerc, President, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “True vision rests in the ability to imagine the possibilities while always remaining loyal to one's values. Our vision for this new venture does exactly that. Together with our partners at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, we are creating something extraordinary that combines their expertise with what Four Seasons does best – delivering unmatched quality and excellence, surrounded by beautiful acts of service and love for our guests.”

With its inaugural journey anticipated for late 2025, the first Four Seasons vessel will be 207 metres (679 feet) long and 27 metres (88.6 feet) wide with 14 decks. At a cost to build of USD 4.2 million per suite, no expense is being spared in terms of the remarkable custom design. The first Four Seasons Yacht will offer nearly 50 percent more living space per guest than currently available, offering ultimate privacy, flexibility and spaciousness in an all-suite nautical residential setting.

Veteran luxury travel industry expert Larry Pimentel is responsible for leading the new enterprise. “In partnership with Four Seasons, we are creating a new category of luxury lifestyle travel that appeals to discerning guests. We are bringing together the very best across industries to create the pinnacle yachting offering through world-class design, curated experiences, and truly exceptional service,” says Pimentel. “When we launch in 2025, there will be nothing else like it on the open seas. Our shipbuilding partnership with Fincantieri rounds out a triumvirate of industry leaders in this unprecedented luxury lifestyle project.”

A Preview of The Four Seasons Yacht Experience

The vessel's 95 spacious accommodations will feature an extensive network of joining suite combinations creating adaptable, villa-like residences. Each suite will offer floor-to-ceiling windows providing unobstructed natural light and access to expansive terrace decks. The combination of generous indoor and outdoor private guest space and ceiling heights of more than 2.4 metres (7.9 feet) will achieve a new level of guest comfort.

Suite accommodations will start at an average of 54 square metres (581 square feet) of indoor/outdoor living space, designed seamlessly to be part of each room. Sixty percent of the vessel's inventory is in excess of 76 square metres (818 square feet) of indoor/outdoor space. The most expansive residence, the “Funnel Suite” will be an astonishing four levels, offering more than 892 square metres (9,601 square feet) of combined indoor/outdoor living space, including a private wading pool and dedicated private spa area, creating a sea view home away from home.

Globally renowned design partners have been engaged including Tillberg Design of Sweden as lead architect responsible for the design of exterior and guest suites, and London-based Martin Brudnizki Design Studio for the design of many of the yacht's spectacular guest areas. These design partners will be paired with the creative direction of Prosper Assouline.

An Unparalleled Guest Experience at Sea

The vessel's restaurants, lounges and bar concepts will celebrate the excellence and creativity that has been the hallmark of Four Seasons history of culinary innovation and attention to guest preferences. A perfect cappuccino in the lobby, a Mediterranean-inspired lunch, a dinner tasting at the sushi bar or a glass of champagne on the breathtaking terrace – guests will never be far from a perfect bite always paired with remarkable sea views, renowned intuitive service, and much more.

The Four Seasons Yacht will also offer guests a full-service spa, salon, and wellness programming – from fitness to health, and nutrition. The classic canoe-shaped aft will be home to an expansive pool deck, allowing for moments of leisure and relaxation. This area will also transform into an outdoor movie theatre or space for an array of private events. The elegant and industry-first transverse marina is also an ideal spot for guests to enjoy the inviting water, sunbathe or explore the specially-designed aqua leisure toys and accessories. Many more of the vessel's unique features and programming will be revealed in the coming months and up to the vessel's delivery in late 2025.

The onboard yacht experience will be led and staffed by a dedicated Four Seasons Yacht team to bring each voyage's itinerary and destinations to life. The vessel will have an industry-leading staff-to-guest ratio to deliver an unmatched standard of highly personalized service.

The Making of the Four Seasons Yacht

Planned as the first of a fleet of Four Seasons Yachts over the next five years, the first vessel is currently being designed in Trieste, Italy by leading shipbuilders Fincantieri, one of the world's largest shipbuilding groups.

“We are excited to embrace this new opportunity with Four Seasons that will allow us to strengthen our global leadership position,” says Pierroberto Folgiero, Fincantieri CEO and Managing Director. “With a reputation built on innovation and reliability, Fincantieri combines groundbreaking engineering and technology to create the finest vessels in the world, ensuring sustainability practices are integrated throughout the design and guest experience.”

With a distinct focus on guest-centric luxury finishings, Fincantieri has received global acclaim and achieved industry awards. “This project is in a class of its own, combining the best of passenger ship construction and yacht design to create a new benchmark for ultra-luxury vessels” adds Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri.

Four Seasons Yachts is the latest addition to the brand's world-class offerings, from the ongoing global expansion of new hotel, resort and residential properties to the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience, the Four Seasons At Home Collection and more. This introduction of a new lifestyle travel experience is taking place at the world-renowned Monaco Yacht Show on September 28, 2022.

Tuesday 18 October 2022

Tuyen Quang promotes historical and cultural tradition for development

Thanh Tuyen Festival attracted a large number of visitors.
 (Photo: NDO)
Tuyen Quang is home to numerous historical and cultural traditions, a “revolutionary museum” of the country. Ethnic minorities here have created unique cultural nuances, with a rich treasure of special festivals. That historical and cultural tradition is now becoming a driving force for development.

​During the August Revolution of 1945, Tuyen Quang was proudly chosen by the Party Central Committee and Uncle Ho as the capital of the Liberation Zone to lead the nation's revolution.

In Tan Trao Commune, many important historical events took place, determining the fate of the country, towards the victory of the August Revolution in 1945, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and opening a new era of national independence associated with socialism.

During the resistance war against the French colonialists, once again, Tuyen Quang was honoured to become the capital of the Resistance, supported by Uncle Ho, the Party Central Committee, the National Assembly, the Government, and the Fatherland Front. And almost all ministries, departments and branches, the central agencies chose Tuyen Quang as their headquarters to lead the resistance.

This place was chosen as the venue for many important events: the 2nd National Congress of the Party - the first Congress was held domestically and the only Congress held outside Hanoi.

With a history spanning nearly 200 years of establishment and development, with 22 ethnic groups living together, while sticking to and conquering nature, the Tuyen Quang ethnic groups have created a long tradition with unique cultural features which have taken root in the residential community, creating its own nuances and rich cultural heritages for the land of Tuyen Quang.

To date, the province has 546 historical, cultural and scenic sites, including 435 historical relics of the revolution and resistance war. Along with the beautiful natural scenery, traditional cultural values ​​imbued with ethnic identities have created the soul of this place.

Kinh, Tay, and Cao Lan groups have wet rice culture. Mong, Dao, and Pa Then ethnic groups live in high mountainous areas, contributing to creating a magnificent system of terraced fields.

The Dao people have a rich treasure of folk knowledge, especially folk remedies...

Each ethnic group also expresses its identity, soul and personality through traditional costumes and culinary culture, especially in the way eating and drinking is imbued with cultural identity.

The spiritual life of people in Tuyen Quang is very diverse. Festivals imbued with national identity are often held in the early spring, such as the Long Tong Festival (Going to the Field), the festival to pray for the harvest, the festival of Dong Tien, the festival of pounding rice...

These traditional agricultural festivals are meant to pray for favourable weather, for all things to flourish, for a bountiful harvest and for the people to be peaceful and prosperous.

The Gieng Tanh and Minh Cam Communal House festivals of the Cao Lan ethnic group are held to commemorate and give thanks to those who have built a place to live and patronise the villagers to live happily.

The ceremony to honour Then singing as an intangible
cultural heritage of humanity. (Photo: NDO)
Some festivals have been cared for and restored, such as: the Mother procession at Ha Temple, Thuong Temple and Y La Temple (Tuyen Quang City); and the Mother procession at Thac Cam Communal House (Ham Yen), etc.

In recent years, Thanh Tuyen Festival has become a unique form of Mid-Autumn Festival with spectacular street festivities, creating a special imprint and cultural identity of local people.

With their talents and exquisite aesthetic abilities, along with soaring and generous souls, the artisans have created vivid models imbued with folk identity for children on the occasion of the annual Mid-Autumn Festival.

The festival was recognised by the Vietnam Guinness Book of Records as having the largest and most unique lanterns in Vietnam.

The locality’s treasure trove of folklore knowledge has been accumulated over many generations. From the oral transmission of poems, ancient stories and proverbs to folk songs and dances, they reflect the concepts of the ethnic minority groups regarding the universe and the attitude towards nature, people and things. They are indispensable spiritual dishes in the daily activities of ethnic minority people. They appear on happy days, holidays, and in the community's cultural activities.

Among them, Then singing and the melody of ‘dan tinh’(gourd lute) is a unique traditional artistic heritage of the Tay ethnic minority people. In 2020, the practice of Then by Tay, Nung and Thai ethnic minority groups was honoured by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

The fire dance festival of the Pa Then ethnic minority people is one of the very special and humane religious activities, expressing the courage and extraordinary strength of man while fighting against the uncertain natural events. The dance conveys the aspirations of farmers for health, favourable weather, good crops, peace and happiness.

There are now more than 200 folk singing and dance clubs, including 70 for Then singing and gourd lute playing and six for 'Pao Dung' folk singing of Dao ethnic people. They have contributed to promoting cultural and artistic movements among the community as well as to preserving the cultural identities of the ethnic minority groups.

Many districts such as Lam Binh, Na Hang and Son Duong have been successfully strengthening the preservation of cultural heritage values while associating them with the development of community-based tourism. They turned the cultural characteristics of the ethnic minority groups, including costumes, housing, cuisine and folk songs, into unique tourism products that have proven attractive to both domestic and international visitors. For example, Lam Binh District has developed 26 homestays, attracting more than 15,000 guests each year.

Member of the Party Central Committee and Secretary of Tuyen Quang Provincial Party Committee Chau Van Lam said the historical and cultural values, which have been preserved, passed on and nurtured, have helped form a good cultural tradition of local people. They are the noble spiritual values towards the cohesion of the community.

The Party committees and people of all ethnic groups in Tuyen Quang Province will continue uphold the heroic historical tradition and the strength of the great national unity to effectively exploit all resources for the rapid and sustainable socio-economic development, thus becoming a comprehensively developed province in the northern mountainous region.

Source: NDO - en.nhandan.vn
Tags: #Tuyen Quang, #Thanh Tuyen Festival, #Then singing, #community-based tourism,

Wallabies' hero and travel enthusiast, Nick Cummins, stars in new tourism campaign for the Hong Kong Tourism Board

Nick is considered a Hong Kong Rugby Sevens regular, but with a helping hand from the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the Honey Badger headed back to explore beyond the bright lights of Hong Kong Stadium to see what the city really has to offer.

The video series shows Nick getting stuck-in and discovering the city like a local on a jam-packed itinerary of culture, nature, street eats, big nights and even bigger personalities, covering everything from making unique new friends to setting a personal record for sprinting 268 stairs.

The campaign, which runs from 5 October to 28 November, is designed to get Aussie travellers excited to get back to Hong Kong soon.

Nick took on some iconic Hong Kong activities that saw the world-renowned winger take on a wing chun master, bring sightseeing to new heights and even get in touch with his spiritual side.

“Hong Kong is one of my all-time favourite cities in the world. The people, the culture, the hustle, the bustle - you just can't beat it. From the restaurants and nightlife, to getting outdoors and exploring, there really is something for everyone. I can't wait for Aussies to explore Hong Kong like I have,” Cummins said.

“The video series shows the incredible variety of experiences you can do in Hong Kong and really captures its distinctly East meets West vibe” says Karen Macmillan, Director of the HKTB, Australia & New Zealand.

“Nick was the perfect person for this campaign not only because of his long-standing relationship with Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Sevens but his infectious larrikin persona and adventurous spirit made him an obvious choice to bring the stories of some of our own local legends to life. This campaign is the ideal entrĂ©e for Aussies tuning into the return of the Hong Kong Sevens from 4-6 November following a couple of years of Covid cancellations” Karen said.

The campaign is live, click here to see exactly what Nick got up to.

Website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com

Monday 17 October 2022

Nearly VND 40,000 billion tourist receipts to be earned by Ha Noi in the first 9 months of 2022

Night tour at Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Ha Noi
If in 2021 most travel businesses and accommodation establishments in Ha Noi had to close or temporarily suspend operations, by 2022 it is expected to have gradually overcome difficulties and achieve many positive results.

According to the Ha Noi City Department of Tourism, in the first 9 months of 2022, the total number of visitors to Ha Noi reached 13.87 million arrivals. In which, domestic visitors were 13.1 million arrivals. The total tourist receipts achieved VND39,690 billion, an increase by 4.7 times compared to the same period in 2021. In September 2022, in the Ha Noi area, there are 3,425 tourist accommodation establishments with 64,800 rooms; in which 598 hotels and apartments have been rated from 1 to 5 stars with 25,057 rooms. The average occupancy rate of the hotels is estimated at 43.7%, an increase of 14.3% compared to August 2022 and an increase of 28.6% over the same period in 2021. In the first 9 months of 2022, the average occupancy rate of the hotel sector is estimated at 34.1%; an increase of 12.7% compared to the same period of 2021.

Tourism activities in Ha Noi have been bustling again in recent months, with a series of exciting events such as the Get on Hanoi 2022 event, Ha Noi come to love 2022, Food Festival and Ha Noi craft village tourism, Hanoi Tourism Festival in 2022, etc. The Ha Noi City Department of Tourism organised the Ha Noi tourism gift product design contest and Ha Noi tourism photo contest aimed to build data for the propaganda and promotion of tourism in the capital.

Many tourism products have been renovated and renew to attract visitors to Ha Noi, such as Hoa Lo Prison Relics night tour, Double-decker bus Ha Noi City tour, the “French architecture in the heart of Ha Noi” walking tour, bike tour explores many new roads in the inner city and suburbs of Ha Noi, re-activate the night tour at Thang Long Imperial Citadel “Decoding the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long”, “Footprints of Bat Trang Ancient Village” tour…

In the last months of the year, the Ha Noi City Department of Tourism will go live several events such as Ha Noi Ao Dai Festival, Contest to select Ha Noi tourism ambassadors and compose songs about Ha Noi tourism...; Simultaneously, cooperating closely with localities to create tourism routes Huong - Tam Chuc - Bai Dinh Pagodas; Ha Noi - Lai Chau - Ha Giang; Ha Noi - Hoa Binh - Son La, etc.

The Ha Noi City Department of Tourism will keep up with the research and develop night tourism products; coordinate with travel agencies, destinations and especially relics and heritage sites to build night tourism products, experience tourism on the basis of traditional tourism products. Promote the development of products, experience, hotel services, high-class entertainment at attractive prices at 4-5 star hotels.
*Tourism Information Technology Center
Tags: #night tourism products, #experience tourism, #Ha Noi,

Be inspired by Sydney's art & soul

With its lively arts scene and nature's artistry on show at every turn, creative energy charges through the harbour city. Now, as a jam-packed calendar of world-class cultural events weaves its magic throughout spring, summer and beyond, you'll find innovation meets inspiration wherever you venture. Here, the must-do experiences that'll leave you feeling energised long after the applause fades.

Enjoy a refreshing new perspective

For more than 150 years the Art Gallery of New South Wales has showcased extraordinary creativity, and now its hallowed halls are set to unveil their own transformation as the Sydney Modern Project reveals a brand new building, inspiring outdoor spaces, and dynamic galleries. Feel your mind expand as you explore the works of Adrián Villar Rojas, Daniel Boyd and Sol LeWitt; feast on Matt Moran's culinary creations, and discover nature's treasures on an Aboriginal bush tucker tour in the nearby Royal Botanic Garden.


Discover an icon's secret stories

The Sydney Opera House is the glittering centrepiece of Australia's arts scene, and as its pearly sails sparkle in the spring sunshine its stages feature everything from lively musicals to classic concertos. Get swept away by powerful storytelling at Phantom of the Opera, Instruments of Dance and L'HĂ´tel; discover the house's rich, hidden history on a private tour, and afterwards, raise a toast as you drink in the views from the Opera Bar, Quay Quarter Lanes and Bennelong.


Embrace the magic where old meets new

With its futuristic cityscape perched atop historic cobbled streets, Sydney's layers of living history set a magical scene for all manner of arts events. At UNESCO World Heritage-Listed Cockatoo Island, the iconic architecture lends an industrial feel to contemporary events, including the upcoming season of Opera Australia's Carmen and the Mode Festival. The steampunk vibes continue to inspire at Carriageworks, where 1800s railway workshops host everything from the experimental art festivals to Sydney Dance Company's New Breed – all just a stroll from South Eveleigh's innovative eateries.

Venture east to feast your senses

With its twinkling city views, cosmopolitan villages, golden beaches and playful spirit, Sydney's East is a cradle of creativity. Become part of its effervescent rhythm as pop living legends Bruno Mars, Elton John, Robbie Williams and Justin Bieber hit the stage; be awed and enthralled by Paddington's eclectic galleries, and let your inspiration guide you to Bondi, where the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition showcases the world's best creativity and landmark eateries like Sean's, Icebergs and Totti's serve inspiration on a platter.

Live in the theatrical moment

From the art deco opulence of the State Theatre to the heritage grace of the Capitol and the modern charms of the Sydney Lyric Theatre, the city's entertainment venues are themselves inspiring works of art – and host everything from Moulin Rouge! The Musical to Cinderella, The Angels Symphony and Aussie comedy greats throughout spring and summer. Afterwards, head to the Darling Quarter for late-night bites, before slipping between the sheets at The Aiden, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, or Crown Towers in buzzing Barangaroo.

Explore unexpected treasure troves

Wander around The Rocks and you'll find arts, culture and entertainment as vibrant as the harbour itself. With its thought-provoking collection of more than 4000 modern works and a rolling roster of world-class exhibitions – including with the ground-breaking Do Ho Suh and Australia's most exciting young artists – the Museum of Contemporary Art always inspires. Nearby, look for treasures hidden in plain sight on an Aboriginal culture or architecture walking tour, before hitting refresh in YCK laneways' secret bars.

Revel in the buzz of diversity

Sydney's community spirit comes to life in its lively culture. At the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre on the banks of the Georges River you'll find a busy spring-summer schedule of events, including the Italian Film Series, and the multimedia extravaganza, Where Shadows Meet. Just 15 minutes' drive away in Campbelltown, the offbeat Fisher's Ghost Festival brings everyone together each November; meanwhile in Cabramatta, the local Vietnamese community shares its delicious culinary heritage at a delectable range of eateries all year round.


Find joy in the eclectic and eccentric

With its street-art filled lanes, breweries, and live soundtrack featuring everything from rock to rap, the Inner West is buzzing with creativity. Embrace its care-free spirit at the Enmore Theatre, where upcoming headliners includes Eskimo Joe and Joey Bada$$. At The Vanguard, Sonny Grin and Blondie appear between cabarets. Out and about, you can soak up the creativity at the White Rabbit Gallery, the Imperial and Factory Theatre, and spend a night or three basking in the inspiration at the atmospheric Old Clare Hotel.

Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au