After the successful launch of the inaugural Planet Trekkers Kids Camp last summer, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort reopens the program from 8th – 31st January 2020, offering a fun-filled yet educational experience for children aged 5 to 12, just in time for Tet.
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January is the ideal time to escape to the beautiful tropical surroundings of Phu Quoc, and InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort is offering a Family Fun package including return airport transfer, one family set lunch at Sora & Umi restaurant, one full day of activities at the Planet Trekkers Kids Camp for one child, a 20% discount at the Spa for parents, and daily access to the fully supervised kids club and Splash! family pool.
Playground haven for your little angels
Led by a team of activity specialists, the Planet Trekkers Kids Camp takes advantage of the resort’s pools, tropical gardens, white-sand beach and children’s club for your little angels to enjoy exciting days of games, educational activities and creative arts and crafts.
Kids can also partake in cooking classes at the resort’s dedicated Kids Can Cook cooking school, treasure hunts, kite wars, swimming classes and other fun activities where they will certainly make new friends, learn interesting skills or useful knowledge which they can bring back home along with cool gifts and stories to tell their friends. Here, unforgettable memories will be forged and remembered as a highlight of their childhood.
Rejuvenation for the Parents
As your children have fun at the Kids Camp, it is important for parents to relax and enjoy the vacation also. A luxurious couples’ treatment awaits at the global award-winning HARNN Heritage Spa, which floats upon the resort’s serene lotus lagoon.
To re-spark that fading romance between lovers, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort has just what you need – a heart-warming intimate moment together watching one of the most stunning sunsets in the world at INK 360, the highest sky bar on the island.
The sunset can also be viewed down by the shore, and the pristine white sands of Long Beach remain clear of overcrowding or outside noise so two lovers really can enjoy a peaceful moment hand in hand.
An Eclectic Gastronomic Experience
From locally sourced premier seafood by the platter, to the finest cuts of imported beef, an exquisite gastronomic experience awaits at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort’s six innovative restaurants and bars.
Sora & Umi offers daily specialty Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine and an abundant international buffet breakfast amidst the refreshing morning light, allowing guests to dine while taking in the stunning pool and ocean views. Live cooking stations provide guests with an interactive and immersive dining experience.
For those seeking a more elegant and refined dining experience, LAVA Seafood and Grill is meticulously designed using bamboo and an electric fossilized coral bar, serving the freshest seafood sourced from local fishermen each day and tucked away in an intimate corner by the beach.
Guests can also indulge in Sea Shack’s All We Can Eat BBQ served on the beach; Ombra’s authentic Italian cuisine, healthy drinks and homemade gelato by the pool; and the highest sky bar on the island – INK 360 – offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island below and the best seats to one of the most colorful sunsets in Asia.
This Lunar New Year, escape to an island paradise for some quality family time and discover the luxurious haven that awaits at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort.
Just like that, December has arrived. An icy breeze chilling you to the bone is a sure sign of winter’s arrival. Winter can be incredibly cold as the outside temperature gradually drops lower and lower, leaving entire countries completely covered in snow and ice. Wintry walks are ideal for people to come together to take joy and warmth from the most simple and peaceful things. The December 2019 edition of Wanderlust Tips will take you on an exhilarating journey through chillingly beautiful destinations.
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December is the month when winter really makes its mark on every street corner. At this time, there is nothing more wonderful than experiencing the magic of the icy cold countries and allowing the unrivaled beauty to ignite all of your senses.
Wanderlust Tips December 2019 will travel to Russia which is renowned for LAKE BAIKAL: A MYSTIFYING CHARM RIPPLING BENEATH THE PEACEFUL SURFACE.Deep yet crystal-clear, Lake Baikal has been a mysterious place for thousands of years. Take a wonderful journey to “the pearl of Russia” and be mesmerized by this timeless and untouched land.
When winter arrives, you can LOSE YOURSELF IN THESE WINTRY DESTINATIONS, for instance, Mongolia, Finland, Greenland or the beautiful village of Hallstatt. Although the weather conditions can be harsh, the winter still bears its own distinctive beauty. Many people still love this season despite trembling in the icy temperatures.
Aside from the snow and ice, there is a sea of festivals in December, notably, THANKSGIVING – MARKING THE START OF THE FESTIVE SEASON. Not only in the US but also in many other countries, Thanksgiving has become an important celebration to mark the beginning of a joyful festive season.
There is nothing better than enjoying HOT DELICACIES ON COLD WINTER DAYS. When the snow begins to fall and everything is covered in ice, something a little hot and spicy is guaranteed to warm your body and soul immediately.
After your trips, come back to Vietnam and pay a visit to HUNG YEN: A TOUCH OF NOSTALGIA ON EVERY CORNER. Tranquil and serene, Hung Yen is hidden inside a mysterious world still waiting to be discovered.
Finally, have a glance over A CONVERSATION WITH MR. TIMOTHY NOTT – CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER OF NOVOTEL HANOI THAI HA & NOVOTEL SUITES HANOI to hear his inspirational story. The conversation focused on the development path of a luxurious and world-class hotel, recently established in Hanoi.
Are you wanting to explore the coldest countries? If so, then follow these tips to make your trip to the coldest of places bearable, even when the temperature drops to -25oC.
Deep yet crystal-clear and alluring yet mystifying, Lake Baikal has been a mysterious place for thousands of years. Take a wonderful journey to “the pearl of Russia” and be mesmerized by the timelessly untouched land.
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LAKE BAIKAL – FALL IN LOVE WITH THE UNTOUCHED BEAUTY
Nestled peacefully in wild Siberia, the pearl of Russia bears a very close resemblance to a giant crescent. Baikal, also known as the Sacred Sea, is the deepest freshwater lake in the world with a maximum depth of 1,642m and contains 20% of the world’s freshwater. Despite having such incredible depth, its surface is crystal-clear, flat and peaceful like a mirror reflecting the majestic mountains. You can also discover fantastic stones and even creatures living in the lake.
Be wowed by the unrivaled beauty of the spacious and majestic surroundings, Lake Baikal boasts a unique charm all year round at any time of the day. On warm days, the gentle rays of sunshine shine through the dense foliage and shimmer on the peaceful surface of Lake Baikal. On cold winter days, the Sacred Sea freezes and then icy bubbles appear beautifully throughout the lake, jagged cracks run as far as the horizon and crystal-clear icebergs bring people’s curiosity to life. Lake Baikal boasts a unique charm that is difficult to put into words. Take a visit to the region and you will see for yourself how exquisite this splendid natural wonder truly is.
THE MYSTIFYING APPEARANCE
There are so many peculiar stories about this place that have been passed down from generation to generation. In the 17th century, Lake Baikal was known as “Lamu” which means “Sea” according to the Evenk language. Buryatian people later called it “Bengal” and gradually changed it to Lake Baikal to synchronize with the Russian language. Rumour also has it that once upon a time, Baikal – a powerful man had a very beautiful daughter named the Angara. The father wanted her to avoid the pitfalls of life, so he locked the Angara in a tall tower. Time passed quickly when she fell in love with Yenisey, so she fled from her father, which made him bitterly resentful.
Thus, he put a curse on her. He also prevented the couple from meeting and dating by a mountain. Even though his daughter begged for forgiveness, Baikal only allowed her tears. Angara River – the major tributary of Lake Baikal and Yenisey River is in the shape of a teardrop as we see it today. Additionally, Lake Baikal is associated with an extremely thrilling legend. There was a pilgrim who had great sympathy for the starving people’s fate, so he tore his heart from his chest and threw it on the ground. As a result, Lake Baikal came into being. Not only is Lake Baikal a site to behold, but there are also some pretty fascinating tales about how this wonder came to be.
INTERESTING STORIES ABOUT LAKE BAIKAL
No lake on Earth is more mysterious and bizarre than Lake Baikal. Rumour has it that there is a giant monster living at the bottom of the peaceful and beautiful lake. A large stone slab, dating back to BC, depicts some sort of terrifying giant water monster. The image carved into the stone shows a lizard-like creature with sharp claws and an extremely thick armor-like skin. Notably, the Buryatian people living by the lakeside, said that they had witnessed the giant monster in the middle of the lake and they called it the “Armoured Water Dragon” as LusudKhan or Usan-Lobson Khan.
If a monster existed in Lake Baikal, the lake could not be famous for its magical and mystifying presence. People also spread rumors that the vast Lake Baikal has been the location of a number of alleged sightings of aliens and UFOs. In 1982, Soviet navy divers encountered a group of humanoid creatures that were dressed in silvery suits in Baikal. In 1977, a deep-water submersible called Paysis was operating at a depth of 1,200 meters in the lake, there was suddenly troubled.
The Physics was in complete darkness until a sudden bright beam shone upon it then flickering out and once more leaving the sub in cold blackness. It has never been satisfactorily explained what the source of the light was. In 2009, the International Space Station reported that strange circles with a diameter of up to 4.4km appeared on the frozen surface of Lake Baikal. Lake Baikal still sits on an array of mysteries, the local residents living around the lake often see many strange phenomena such as an imposing castle, trains or even strange ships lazing far away. It seems to us that surprising the world with interesting discoveries on Lake Baikal in the future can still be a big challenge.
W.TIPS
TRANSPORTATION
From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, there are many flights for you to travel to Russia, for instance, Vietnam Airlines and Aeroflot flights.
From the airport, visitors can travel by train or bus to the Irkutsk transfer hub which is the most popular stopover to transfer to Lake Baikal. Additionally, you could experience the famous Trans-Siberian Railway and get a spectacular view of the majestic natural scenery. Sit on the train in winter whilst watching the charmingly icy land.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Russia has two seasons including winter and summer. July is the best time to travel to Lake Baikal as the weather is cool and pleasant. However, if you want to have a more exhilarating experience, you should come here in the winter to admire the completely frozen lake.
SIGHTSEEING ATTRACTIONS AROUND LAKE BAIKAL
>> Discover mysterious islands: With the largest area and located in the center of Lake Baikal, Olkhon Island is dubbed the heart of the lake. Aside from the breathtaking natural surroundings, Olkhon Island draws people’s attention thanks to an array of fascinating myths and legends. Additionally, Baikal is home to up to 27 other large and small islands, for instance, Ushkani Island and Holy Nose Peninsula.
>> The alluring village of Listvyanka located along the shore of Lake Baikal with a population of 1,500 people is an outstanding tourist destination. Visitors can pay a visit to famous attractions, for instance, Baikal Museum, Cherskiy Mountain or Nicholas Cathedral. Moreover, visitors can also experience a variety of local customs and traditions.
>> Despite the cold weather, visitors traveling to Lake Baikal in the winter can participate in a wide range of outdoor activities such as camping, cycling, and climbing. In particular, you can enjoy snowmobiling in the middle of the lake, ice fishing and sampling the delicious smoked fish.
CUISINE
>> Omul whitefish is the most famous delicacy to try at Lake Baikal. There are many ways for you to enjoy this unique dish such as eating it raw, smoked, fried or salted.
>> Black bread is always a must-have dish on the dining table in Russia, served with butter, jam or various types of meat.
>> Russian salad is an appetizer famous all over the world.
>> Pelmeni or Happy Cakes are dumplings made from pork, onion, garlic, salt, and Russian dough.
The spirit of old Hanoi will sweep through the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi this month, as the hotel celebrates Tet with a traditional Old Quarter-style market from Jan. 17-19. The festivities continue with special culinary offerings beginning Jan. 24.
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At the Tet market, food vendors in the hotel’s patio will sell authentic Vietnamese favorites, while children will be given traditional toys known as to him, edible figurines made from glutinous rice powder shaped to look like flowers and animals. Market-goers can also learn the art of classic Vietnamese calligraphy.
Wine, craft beer and other refreshments will also be on offer, as will souvenirs that visitors can take home as memories of the Vietnamese lunar new year. Traditional-style Hanoi houses will also be erected in the hotel’s walkway outside La Boutique du Metropole, adding to the “Old Quarter” ambiance.
The Tet market at Metropole Hanoi is open to the public daily and kicks off Friday, Jan. 17 at 4 pm with an opening ceremony featuring a traditional dragon dance. The market continues on Jan. 18 and 19 from 11 am to 8 pm. More than 15 vendors will take part in this year’s bazaar. Special Metropole Tet hampers with luxury and gourmet items will be available for sale at the market and at L’Epicerie du Metropole from 6 January onwards.
The hotel will host a cooking competition at the market at 5 pm each day. On Jan. 17, contestants will vie to see who can create the most delicious “Chung cake” (a traditional Vietnamese rice cake) while Jan. 18 will witness a battle of Banh Cuon, and Jan. 19 will determine who is able to produce the tastiest spring rolls. Winners will receive a voucher for a complimentary homemade cake from L’Epicerie du Metropole.
A Vietnamese floral specialist from local boutique Liti Florist will host a flower workshop from 2 pm to 4 pm on Jan. 18.
An exclusive six-course Tet 2020 Gala Dinner at Spices Garden will be served on Jan. 24 featuring grilled oysters with shallots and roasted peanuts; blue prawn in a mild coconut soup; fresh yellow bamboo and beef salad; braised Chinh fish with green banana; grilled pigeon and foie gras; and banana fritter, traditional Tet candied fruits, and vanilla ice cream. The gala dinner is priced at 2.5 million VND.
With the theme “Wintry Walks”, Share the love section in December 2019 will take you to an amazing variety of famous wintry destinations around the world. Every story will bring an extremely thrilling experience to help readers have a better understanding of the extraordinarily wintry charm in various countries.
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ARCHITECT, HANOI | PAKISTAN – FULL OF CHARM AND SURPRISES
Like so many other Vietnamese people, my first thoughts about Pakistan are not entirely positive as I have read and heard a lot about the effects of war and the instability in the country. However, when I arrived in Gilgit Baltistan, Northern Pakistan, I was extremely surprised by the serenity and tranquillity of this place. Arriving in Phandar, Kerimabad and Hunza, I was overwhelmed by the friendliness and kindness of the locals. All differences in language, religion and culture are erased by their warm smiles and hospitality. The local people here have a peaceful life without much pressure, so during my time in Pakistan, I never saw anybody get angry or get into an argument.
Pakistan is also home to a variety of breathtaking landscapes. I visited Hunza on the last days of autumn, the weather was pleasant with brilliant sunshine and a gentle breeze. However, when night fell, it was extremely cold and the temperature dropped to -2oC. Khunjarab Pass and the border between Pakistan and Xinjiang are much colder than Hunza Valley. When my family arrived, the temperature dropped to -15oC. It was as if the icy temperatures penetrated every cell in my body, so I did not dare expose any part of me. After this trip, I concluded that Pakistan is completely different to how I imagined and boasts an extremely exotic beauty.
ASSISTANT AT WHO, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND | EXPLORE GREENLAND – THE LAND OF ICEBERGS
I opted to travel to Nuuk – Greenland’s capital which is covered in thick ice and is home to fantastic unparalleled scenery all year round. The place is usually crowded for about three months. The sailing tour that I participated in exploring the Scoresby Sund Fjord on East Greenland in the second week of September, was the last of the tourist season. In late September, the autumnal weather is diverse bringing sunshine, hail and snow. However, it is generally not too cold, the lowest temperature is about to -4oC. When travelling to Ittoqqortoormiit village, my first impressions were good. The village is only 800km away from the South Pole and seems completely separate from the outside world.
In Greenland, tourist services are quite expensive because almost all the essentials are imported. Visitors here will the opportunity to witness hundreds of villagers rushing to the street to welcome the freight trains, creating an extremely fantastic atmosphere. A highlight of my Greenland trip was when I left the boat to the mainland for a trek to reach the top of the mountain and admire the immense icebergs. The most special day was the day before the end of the tour. I never forgot the spectacular moment when day changed to night in Greenland. One side of the boat was lit by the moonlight whilst the other side was bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. At the end of the boat, green aurora rays dazzled before my eyes.
PHOTOGRAPHER, HCMC | AN ICY -35OC AND MOVIE-ESQUE SCENES
Two years ago, I took a trip to visit tribes near the Mongolian border – the chilly land. I really experienced travelling in winter when the temperature dropped to -35oC. Even now I feel the trip was like something out of a movie with many interesting surprises, dangers and even difficulties. During my days in Mongolia, I was immersed in wildlife during extreme weather. Every morning, we had to melt ice for water to wash and always had bread, peanut butter or jam for breakfast. Our lunch was a heartier meal of boiled lamb and our dinner was always served with instant noodles.
As night fell, the temperature continued to drop. Despite wearing three layers of clothes and wrapping myself up in my sleeping bag, the icy coldness made me shudder. To try and keep warm, each member of the group took it in turns to fetch firewood to keep the fire going. Apart from the cold weather, Mongolia was an exhilarating and memorable trip. It was the first time that I have had to deal with unexpected incidents. For instance, my foot slipped into a hole and I lost momentum at one point whilst climbing snow. It was also the first time I have ridden reindeer or organised a party and campfire. I will never forget the time I spent in Mongolia. Especially, the glowing embers of the dazzling fire against the snowy forest.
OVERSEAS STUDENT, ENGLAND | SNOWMEN ARE DISPLAYED WIDELY AT UNIVERSITY
I arrived in Brighton, a south coastal city in England three years ago. Even though the coastal city is typically cold in winter, it is said that snow rarely falls here. Therefore, I was a little bit surprised to see snowflakes falling on a wintry day after two years studying in the country. My campus is wide and flat so it is estimated that about 10cm of snow had covered the ground. Everyone was extremely excited about playing in the snow together. Taking a stroll around the campus, I was surprised and overwhelmed to see an amazing variety of snowmen everywhere.
Baby snowmen were displayed on the balconies and giant snowmen were placed in front of the library. In spite of the cold weather and snowfall, the rays of gentle sunshine shone through the white cloud, making the white surroundings even more magical. Brighton is known for its steep roads and streets. If people forgot to spread salt before the snow falls, then the slopes can become a treacherous skating rink. Even if I was late for class, I would not run as I did not want to fall down on the main street. By the end of 2019, I will finish my studies in England and return to Vietnam. The snowy days will definitely be the most unforgettable and emotional moments during my time living and studying in Brighton.
[Wanderlust Tips December 2019] Spring is beautiful with hundreds of blooming flowers, summer is dazzling with brilliant sunshine and autumn has people falling in love with charming roads full of yellow and red leaves. How about cold winter? Although the weather is extremely cold and conditions can be harsh, the winter still bears its own distinctive beauty. Many people still love this season despite trembling in the icy temperatures. Discover wintry destinations to better understand the exquisite beauty of a cold winter.
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ENJOY THE ICY FEELING IN OYMYAKON VILLAGE, RUSSIA
When thinking about travelling to Russia, the first thing that springs to mind is the freezing cold weather typical of this vast land. In winter, temperatures plummet to a bone-chilling level as thick layers of snow cover the ground and the icy temperatures penetrate every cell in the body. However, the winter in Russia still captivates visitors with its beauty and charm. This vast country is home to Oymyakon, the coldest village in the world.
The temperature here can drop to -71oC, but the surrounding scenery and environment still possess an unrivalled beauty. Blankets of snow and ice lay on the road, envelope the statues, the roofs and even land on the humans’ eyelashes. In the bleak depths of winter, meat and fish are considered the main foods that tourists can enjoy during their visit because no plants can survive at this temperature. With so many exhilaratingly unique features and in such seemingly inhuman temperatures, the Oymyakon village has become a favourite destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Average Temperature: -50oC
Weather: cold and dry
Winter Duration: 4-5 months
GERMANY – ENJOY A WARM FESTIVE WINTER
Germany boasts a distinctive beauty in every season, but you should definitely visit this beautiful country during winter to really feel its unique European charm. The festive atmosphere spreading through the streets in Germany at the end of the year makes for an unforgettable trip. In winter, Germany is blanketed in snow.
Visitors here are very impressed when they have the opportunity to admire the magical Schloss Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired the romantic scenes in the famous movie “Beauty and the Beast”. During winter, nothing is better than embarking on a famous German culinary journey with a diversity of delectable delicacies. Stroll around the bustling streets, sample tasty street food and appreciate the joyful and festive atmosphere with the crowds buzzing with laughter, have fun on the thick ice and embrace the cold weather in Germany.
Average Temperature: -10oC
Weather: cold and dry
Winter Duration: 3 months
VISIT THE ICY COUNTRY OF GREENLAND
The Greenland ice sheet is a vast body of ice covering 80% of land and thanks to the Arctic climate, Greenland is cold all year round. Rumour has it that Greenland is always stunningly beautiful, but nothing is better than seeing the giant glaciers and the colourful houses from under the white snow. The local residents are well acquainted with the freezing weather in Greenland.
Travelling around Greenland on a boat in the middle of the ocean, you will have the opportunity to see the large icebergs and catch cold-water fish. Greenland is not only home to magnificent landscapes but is also an ideal destination for you to have fun in the thick layers of white snow. Ice skating, sleigh riding or just having real fun building a giant snowman on the icy island will surely make the winter in the world’s coldest place warmer with merriment and laughter.
Average Temperature: -10oC
Weather: cold and dry
Winter Duration: ~7 months
WINTER IN A HAPPY COUNTRY
Finland, a Northern European country, enveloped in fluffy white snow, reminds people of famous tales from the past. The country bears its own unique beauty that is especially worthy of its reputation as a happy country because it is home to the world’s leading education system, a safe environment and stunningly unparalleled landscapes. More interestingly, Finland becomes truly magical when winter comes with delicate white snowflakes covering every inch of space.
The beautiful wintry beauty sweeps across the whole country from Helsinki – the vast capital of Finland to the ancient capital of Turku with countless architectural masterpieces and even the peaceful old city of Porvoo. Lapland, the home of Santa Claus, is a must-visit destination during your itinerary in Finland. The beautiful city is a magical wonderland that is home to shimmering lights, glistening snow and ice covering the streets. You can even take the opportunity to meet Santa Claus, visit giant toy factories and travel everywhere by sleigh.
Average Temperature: -35oC
Weather: Cold and wet
Winter Duration: 3-6 months
ESTONIA – A FAIRYTALE BROUGHT TO LIFE
Estonia, a small European country, is not as famous as France, Italy or Germany but it beholds a fantastic beauty that is hard to capture in words. Christmas is the best time for visitors to travel to Estonia, as during this time the snow and ice envelope the country bringing with it a bustling holiday atmosphere filling people’s hearts with love and joy.
Strolling along the winding cobbled streets in Tallinn and appreciating the peaceful beauty of the ancient towers covered with a thick layer of white snow really warms the heart. The buzzing festival atmosphere fills the streets. Take a visit to the Christmas market at Town Hall Square to witness how bustling Estonia is. Finally, stop at the Raekoja Plats, where you can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of the ancient city of Estonia whilst appreciating its tranquillity and serenity. Estonia is extraordinarily beautiful and has visitors’ falling head over heels.
Average Temperature: -5.2oC
Weather: Cold and wet
Winter Duration: 4-5 months
CHICAGO – A VIBRANT WINTER IN AMERICA
Chicago – the third most populous city in the United States is considered an iconic destination for winter. On cold snowy days, Chicago is not a peaceful city. Instead, it is vibrant and modern, making people forget the bone-chilling wind. Additionally, the winter in Chicago attracts visitors due to the bustling pace of daily life. The snowy city impresses with its breathtaking landscapes in winter.
In January and February, as the temperature drops to the lowest point, Lake Michigan partly freezes, forming quite the picture that visitors flock to see. A number of dazzling lights from high-rise buildings light up the city, illuminating many infamous tourist attractions in Chicago, for instance, the renowned Willis Tower, the snow-covered Millennium Park, the distinctive Cloud Gate and many others. Another fantastic thing about Chicago is the optimism of the local people, even though the temperature is lower than the Arctic, they are still happy to enjoy the harsh weather in the wintry destination.
Average Temperature: -15oC
Weather: Cold and wet
Winter Duration: 4 months
A PICTURE-PERFECT WINTERY MASTERPIECE IN HALLSTATT
The ancient city of Hallstatt, Austria is blessed with a picturesque beauty during the long cold winters. Located on prime terrain leaning on the Dachstein Mountain on one side and overlooking the alluring Hallstättersee Lake on the other side, Hallstatt overwhelms visitors and leaves them mesmerised by the majestic scenery of the town dating back 7,000 years.
Hallstatt, dubbed the pearl of Austria, is famous for an amazing variety of structures including magnificent castles, ancient churches with unique medieval architecture and the oldest salt mine in the world. When winter comes, the yellow lights from every corner of the town are lit up, basking the streets in a gentle light that warms their soul. In Hallstatt, winter is a joyous season of festivities. Restaurants revel in the opportunity to promote their attractive winter menu. Festive melodies are played across the town and the ski run is always busy. In Hallstatt, the winter is extremely cold, but it is truly a great option for travel lovers.
Average Temperature: <0oC
Weather: Cold and wet
Winter Duration: 3 months
MONGOLIA – THE PRAIRIES ARE FILLED WITH WHITE SNOW
The intense summer heat in Mongolia makes people feel dizzy and the winters are incredibly cold. Mongolia – the land of endless blue sky is affected by the cold breeze from Siberia, so if travelling here in winter, you can feel the icy coldness of up to -40oC. Ulaanbaatar is a super-cold city and also the huge capital of Mongolia where you can visit Sukhbaatar Square, admire Blue Sky Tower and enjoy the wintry atmosphere.
If you desire to have once-in-a-lifetime travel experience in wintry destinations, you could get involved in the daily life of Mongolian nomads in the freezing cold weather. Waking up in a yurt – a traditional Mongolian hut, you will hear every crack of snow and ice melting after a night of low temperatures and a bone-chilling breeze. The icy temperatures in Mongolia are not the only unforgettable aspect, visitors here also love to see horses walking leisurely on the white snow, the sky illuminated with the glowing embers of the dazzling campfires to warm the souls of nomads and the dynamic Khövsgöl ice festival every year.
I arrived in Hung Yen on an autumnal day in November as the first rays of gentle sunshine shone through the gaps in the dense foliage, the early morning dew cooled my skin, it was really rather chilly. Hung Yen is a far cry from other places on my bucket list. Tranquil and serene, it is almost as if it is hidden inside a mysterious world which needs to be discovered.
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My trip to Hung Yen was spontaneous, the idea sprung to mind one afternoon and the next day I took a two-day trip to Hung Yen. I quickly searched for some information about the place, I discovered that Hung Yen was an ancient alluvial plain, located in the central region of the Northern Delta, adjacent to Hanoi. Although the local tourism is not particularly developed, Hung Yen is home to more than 1,800 historic relics, thousands of valuable materials, antiquities and more than 400 traditional festivals. Additionally, the province is the home of traditional cottage industry villages and unique folklore treasures imbued with Vietnamese identity. Reading such interesting facts about Hung Yen, I waved goodbye to hectic Hanoi to visit this mysterious province.
THE PEACEFUL BEAUTY OF A BYGONE ERA
Something that stuck out to me about Hung Yen was the smells wafting in the air. The aromas of incense mingled with the fragrant ancient wood made my soul feel relaxed and comfortable. The scents seemingly oozed from every house, road, tree, grass and even footstep of the locals. Curiosity got the better of me and I wanted to visit Thai Lac pagoda, one of the three oldest wooden pagodas in Vietnam. I wondered how the famous pagoda compared to others, as Vietnam is famous for its Buddhist culture and home to hundreds of unique architectural temples and pagodas.
Thai Lac pagoda, also known as Phap Van Tu, is located in Lac Hong Commune, Van Lam District. The pagoda traditionally worships Buddha and Ms Phap Van, the Goddess of Cloud. Built under the Tran Dynasty’s reign, its layout follows the structure of “Noi Cong Ngoai Quoc”. The architecture of the pagoda is imbued with the signature aroma of natural wood. The pagoda was honoured as a special national relic in 2018, so when visiting here I was in absolute awe of the exquisite talents carved by the ingenious hands of ancient artisans. Idyllic and peaceful, it evoked a sense of contemplation and nostalgia in the hearts of people.
Each crack in the wooden pillars seems to evoke an inspirational story of Vietnamese culture and history. The smell of ancient wood mingled with incense takes people back in time. In Thai Lac pagoda, the most valuable relics are the 20 wooden bas-reliefs dating back to the Tran Dynasty. I was extremely impressed with the reliefs that depict fairies riding phoenixes and playing the flutes and other traditional instruments. I felt as if I was lost in a remarkably fanciful world. Although I did not spend much time at Thai Lac pagoda, I still felt the wholly sacred and ancient beauty of Hung Yen. Over the course of time, Thai Lac pagoda has remained an important destination for local people to immerse themselves in the peace and tranquillity whilst transporting themselves back in time.
HERBAL AROMAS WAFT IN THE BREEZE
For a long time, it has been said that Nghia Trai is a “sanctuary of medicinal herbs” nationwide. The village is home to a wide range of different herbs from popular medicinal herbs such as Perilla, Vietnamese balm and Plantago major to a variety of precious herbs such as chrysanthemum, Desmodium styracifolium and patchouli. Arriving at the village gate, visitors can immediately sense the pleasant aroma of herbs. The lush green herbs are planted everywhere in the courtyards, farmland and even along the roadside.
Sipping a cup of fragrant tea, the locals confided in me that “The medicinal herbs are considered as the devotion of the villagers and they always show their love, passion and respect for the traditional handicraft. All Nghia Trai villagers from old to young have a good understanding of herbal remedies, but not every family practices medicine”. Aside from planting, processing and trading medicinal herbs, Nghia Trai is famous for providing remedies and diagnosing diseases according to traditional medicine. The traditional remedies of the villagers have been preserved and passed down from generation to generation.
It can be said that the villagers seem not to be affected by diseases, especially incurable diseases. Elderly people are still healthy and agile despite their age. I waved goodbye to Nghia Trai medicinal village, but two sentences carved at the communal house of the head of the village still played on my mind, “Than but ang tien dang khoa bang – Thanh y truyen hau the luu danh”. It means that no matter where the villagers go, the first thing they do when they return to the village is to go to the temple to pray. The aroma of medicinal herbs always spreads and oozes in the hearts of the villagers, reminding them of their origin and homeland.
RUSTIC AND ANCIENT
I had the opportunity to visit Nom village instead of Pho Hien – a famous destination in Hung Yen. Because of my tight schedule, I really wanted to escape to a lesser-known place to immerse in my own world. Dai Dong ancient village, also known as Nom village, with the signature smell of ancient moss wafting in the air. The village is also home to many ancient structures that can be considered comparable to Duong Lam ancient village. Walkthrough the majestic village gate, under the shadow of the old banyan trees and stroll along the brick road which is more than 100 years old. All of the ancient structures, cultural features and Vietnamese architecture form a beautiful picture which captivates people’s hearts. Nom village is beautiful, rustic, peaceful and somewhat nostalgic.
Every corner of the idyllic Dai Dong village beholds a serene beauty with ancient architecture, traditional culture and friendly people. Travelling here makes visitors feel that the past 100 years have been a dream. Over the course of time, the village has retained its unique colourful beauty and its own distinctive identity. Another attraction in Nom village is Nom pagoda, also known as Linh Thong Co Tu. The pagoda was built in an Asian architectural style, typical of ancient Vietnamese pagodas. More than 100 terracotta statues and intricate sculptures have been preserved in Nom pagoda.
Aside from its ancient architecture, I was extremely mesmerised by its sacredness and peaceful simplicity. Under the shadow of the ancient banyan trees, I strolled along the old brick road. I visited Tam Giang communal house and admired a green stone bridge crafted with a dragon-shaped head and visited traditional Vietnamese houses of big families. I only stayed for two days, but I got the feeling that time seems to stand still in Hung Yen. In the tranquil streets, there was only me standing by the ancient houses, a strange yet familiar feeling filled my heart. I pointed my camera and then at that moment, I felt like I had the whole world at my fingertips.
W.TIPS
TRANSPORTATION TO HUNG YEN
There are many transport options to travel to Hung Yen:
>> Motorbike: It takes more than two hours to go from Hanoi to Hung Yen City by motorbike. You can follow the new interprovincial route which is very airy and safe.
>> Ferry terminal: If you are excited about observing the natural surroundings, please ask for directions to Hong Van ferry terminal. After taking a ferry ride, follow the road to reach Hung Yen City.
>> Bus: From Hanoi, there are many bus routes to Hung Yen including 208, 209 and 205. You can catch a bus at Gia Lam bus station, the ticket price is approximately VND50,000 per person.
TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS IN HUNG YEN
>> Chu Dong Tu Festival
When: 10th to 12th February of the lunar calendar.
What happens: 9 communes hold a procession on land from communal houses to Da Hoa temple; 8 other communes hold a procession on water from Hong River to Da Trach Temple; Trong Quan singing.
>> Ghenh Temple Festival
When: 11th to 14th March of the lunar calendar
What happens: Water procession, Moc Duc, palanquin procession, sacrifices, incense offering, Quan Ho singing, Cheo singing and some traditional games.
>> Ban Yen Nhan Festival
When: 11th April of the lunar calendar.
What happens: Palanquin procession, chess-playing, cockfighting, votive dance, casting cards, water procession, Moc Duc, palanquin procession, sacrifices, incense offering, Quan Ho singing, Cheo singing and some traditional games.
MUST-TRY LOCAL DELICACIES IN HUNG YEN
– Longan
– Dong Tao chicken
– Gau Village round glutinous cake
– Sweetened longan and lotus seeds
– Phu Thi stuffed pancake
SIGHTSEEING ACTIVITIES IN HUNG YEN
>> July is the season of the longan harvest and the lotus blooming in Hung Yen, so visitors here can be mesmerised by the delicate aroma. Additionally, visitors can enjoy traditional delicacies such as sweetened longan and lotus seeds.
>> “The first is Kinh Ky, the second is Pho Hien”. If travelling to Hung Yen, you should visit Pho Hien, dubbed as a “Tieu Trang An”. This place was a huge commercial port in the 13th century and now preserves 200 cultural and historical valuable relics.
>> Pay a visit to other traditional villages, for instance, Ban for soybean sauce, Thon Cao for musk incense, Long Thuong for bronze casting, Phu Ung for silver carving and dried longan making.
On a cold winter morning, when the snow begins to fall and everything is covered in ice, something a little hot and spicy is guaranteed to warm your body and soul immediately. Join us on an outstanding culinary journey with a variety of hearty dishes for everyone.
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LOHIKEITTO – CREAMY SALMON SOUP
In Lapland, the northernmost part of Finland, winters are freezing cold. Temperatures can reach as low as -45oC or -50oC. Santa’s hometown is famous for the Tana River, which flows through the border between Finland and Norway and is said to attract diners due to an abundance of salmon – the crème de la crème of the Scandinavian countries. Salmon is a versatile ingredient that can make an array of delicious dishes. However, salmon soup, known as Lohikeitto in Finland, is a signature delicacy of the Finnish people in winter.
Lohikeitto uses salmon as the main ingredient and is seasoned with spices, dill and stewed potatoes. To keep the fresh taste, each piece of salmon is peeled, filleted, cut into large chunks, then marinated with salt and put into a saucepan. The sweet broth is then considered as a base for the salmon soup. The salmon heads and bones along with a little salt and white pepper are simmered, releasing a fantastic aroma. The creamy soup is a highlight of Lohikeitto. The salmon soup is a fusion of light creamy salmon and tender potatoes, creating a diversity of unique flavours and a hearty taste. What could be better than enjoying a bowl of salmon soup in the freezing cold weather in Lapland?
SOLYANKA SPICY SOUP – UNIQUE TO THE LAND OF THE BIRCH
It is said that Russia is home to an abundance of soups, for instance, fish soup, cheese soup and meatball soup. Nevertheless, Solyanka is considered the most peculiar and impressive soup. It is considered a traditional Russian dish eaten on cold days. Most typical Russian soups are made from vegetables, for instance, cabbage and pickled cucumbers. Solyanka spicy soup is no exception. This dish comes in three varieties including vegetarian soup, meat soup and seafood soup. All three variations use the same broth. The spicy and sour taste deriving from cucumber brine is used as a base for the rich broth and makes the signature flavour of the soup.
The Russians usually combine every version of Solyanka with different ingredients depending on their preferences and regions, but carrots and cabbage are staple ingredients. Solyanka spicy soup is garnished with lemon juice, grated lemon peel, sour cream and olives. The Russians usually serve the Solyanka spicy soup with Sbiten, a traditional hot beverage made from honey and jam to increase its flavour. After boiling in the water, Sbiten is garnished with a cinnamon stick. The aroma of cinnamon blended with the hot spicy soup takes the edge off the freezing cold weather in Russia.
CLAM CHOWDER – A FIRM FAVOURITE FOR AMERICANS IN COLD WINTER
American people appreciate the importance of food. They think that American cuisine is a mirror of all cuisines in the world. In the cold weather with large amounts of snow covering street corners, enjoying a bowl of clam chowder will definitely warm the soul. When the temperature drops rapidly, most American families usually cook a pot of fragrant clam chowder to dispel the cold. Clam chowder is popular in many regions of America, especially by the East Coast. Every region has a different way of cooking, but clam chowder cooked with fresh cream or tomato is the most popular.
This particular chowder is made from a range of simple ingredients, for instance, clams, salted pork, potatoes, onions, a little celery and garnished with gritted bay leaves to add a delicate flavour and an eye-catching colour. The perfect combination of these ingredients creates a delectable clam chowder with a rich flavour that is hard to find anywhere else. It sounds simple but this dish requires careful and meticulous preparation. Clams must be washed, boiled and cooked in their shells to keep their freshness and sweetness. Potatoes and other ingredients must be stewed until moderately tender and exceptionally fragrant. Traditionally, Americans often enjoy clam chowder on Fridays at restaurants.
Gala celebrations will mark the maiden sailing of the Victoria Mekong as she makes her way from Can Tho, Vietnam to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The stylish, contemporary 35-cabin cruiser is set to leave Can Tho on December 11, 2019, on a four-night sailing with VIP guests onboard representing local authorities, business partners, and local and international media.
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On the first evening, guests will be feted to a gala dinner as the ship leaves Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. After shore excursions the following morning to observe local craftsmen involved in net weaving, wood carving, and incense making on the riverine Tiger Island, guests will continue their river journey to Tan Chau, before being spirited away on speedboats to Victoria Chau Doc Hotel to celebrate the property’s landmark 20th anniversary.
Back aboard the four-deck Victoria Mekong, more shore excursions are scheduled in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, including visits to temples, floating fish farms, and a silk village, before the ship makes its way to its final destination – Cambodia’s charming capital of Phnom Penh.
The brand new 4-star ship will be one of the first to cruise out of Can Tho, set to become one of Vietnam’s hottest destinations with international flights to/from Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, as well as connections to a range of domestic destinations including Hanoi, Danang, and the islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao.
In addition to being a floating resort featuring gourmet cuisine, world-class facilities, and chic, generously-sized cabins and suites, the Victoria Mekong aims to connect passengers to local destinations and culture in the form of onboard musical and dance performances by local artists and carefully curated shore excursions to several less-visited but equally fascinating attractions.
The Victoria Mekong operates 3-night itineraries from Phnom Penh, Cambodia to Can Tho, Vietnam, and 4-night itineraries in the reverse direction. Cruise fares include all meals on full sailing days, all-day free flow of beverages, including soft drinks and local beer, free flow of house wine during lunch and dinner, excursions, and more.
The Victoria Mekong is operated by Victoria Mekong Cruises, a Joint Venture between Thien Minh Group (TMG), one of Asia’s leading travel and hospitality groups, and Wendy Wu Tours, the UK’s leading Asia tour specialist. Thien Minh Group and Wendy Wu Tours have set strong commitments for communication and execution to deliver guests the best possible travel experiences enhanced by the highest standards of service. The launch of the Victoria Mekong Cruise is an important milestone for the two companies, setting sights on the start of several similar products in the future.
Office contact details:
Address: G Floor, Victoria Can Tho Resort, Cai Khe Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City, Vietnam