Da Lat and Hoi An are two of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason, both cities are steeped in history and culture and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Additionally, both cities have been designated as UNESCO Creative Cities, a testament to their vibrant cultural scene and commitment to preserving their unique traditions.
Da Lat: The dreamy city, a favorite place for young people and adults
Da Lat is a city in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, known for its cool climate, picturesque scenery, and French colonial architecture. The city was founded in the early 1900s by the French as a summer retreat, and its European influence is still evident today in its many charming villas and gardens.
Da Lat has established itself as a hub for literary and artistic creativity in Vietnam. The city’s Writers’ Village provides a space for writers to come together and work on their projects, while the Da Lat Book Festival and the Da Lat Poetry Festival offer platforms for writers to share their work with the public. Da Lat is also home to several museums and galleries that showcase the work of local and international artists, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
The city’s commitment to promoting literary and artistic creativity is evident in the wide range of programs and events that it offers. The Da Lat Book Festival, which is held annually in November, is one of the largest book festivals in Vietnam. The festival features a variety of activities, including book signings, readings, and workshops. The Da Lat Poetry Festival, which is held annually in March, is another popular event that celebrates the art of poetry. The festival features a variety of readings and performances by poets from all over Vietnam.
In addition to its festivals and events, Da Lat is also home to several other literary and artistic institutions. The Writers’ Village is a unique space that provides writers with a place to come and work on their projects. The village is located in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature, and it offers writers a variety of amenities, including accommodations, workspaces, and a library.
Da Lat is also home to several museums and galleries that showcase the work of local and international artists. The Lam Dong Museum, for example, houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of the region’s history and culture. The Da Lat Fine Arts Museum, on the other hand, showcases the work of Vietnamese and international artists. Da Lat’s commitment to promoting literary and artistic creativity is one of the things that makes the city so special. The city’s vibrant cultural scene provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the best of Vietnamese culture.
Photo: Klook
Hoi An: Dreamy ancient city with a peaceful retro vibe
Hoi An is an ancient port city in central Vietnam, known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional Vietnamese architecture, including merchants’ houses, temples, and assembly halls.
The Old Town Hoi An is a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Arts, and its commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Vietnamese crafts is evident in the many schools, workshops, and festivals that it offers.
Craft and folk art schools in Hoi An provide students with the opportunity to learn traditional Vietnamese crafts such as silk weaving, pottery, and wood carving. These schools offer a variety of programs, ranging from short-term workshops to multi-year apprenticeships. Students learn from experienced artisans who have been practicing their craft for generations.
In addition to its schools, Hoi An also has several craft workshops where visitors can learn about and purchase traditional Vietnamese handicrafts. These workshops offer a variety of activities, such as demonstrations, classes, and shopping opportunities. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques of traditional Vietnamese crafts, and they can also purchase unique and authentic souvenirs.
Hoi An is also home to many festivals and events that celebrate Vietnamese culture. The Hoi An Lantern Festival is one of the city’s most popular festivals. The festival is held annually in November and features a variety of activities, including lantern-making workshops, lantern displays, and a lantern parade. The Hoi An Ancient Town Festival is another popular festival that celebrates the city’s rich history and culture. The festival is held annually in February and features a variety of activities, such as traditional performances, food stalls, and games.
Hoi An’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Vietnamese crafts is one of the things that makes the city so special. The city’s many schools, workshops, and festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.
Photo: Hotels
Two splendid cities of Vietnam meant to be UNESCO Creative Cities awards
Da Lat and Hoi An were both designated as UNESCO Creative Cities in 2019. UNESCO Creative Cities are places that have made a significant contribution to the cultural and creative fields. They are recognized for their innovative approaches to urban development and their commitment to promoting creativity and cultural diversity.
Da Lat was designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, while Hoi An was designated as a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Arts. Both cities have a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. They are also committed to promoting cultural diversity and sustainable development.
Da Lat and Hoi An offer visitors a unique cultural experience. Both cities are steeped in history and tradition and offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Additionally, both cities are home to a vibrant arts scene and a variety of cultural attractions.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, Da Lat and Hoi An have something to offer everyone. Both cities are well worth a visit for anyone seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.