Wanderlust Tips Team – Page 109

Hung Yen: A touch of nostalgia on every corner

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.

[rpi]

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: 10^th to 12^th 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: 11^th to 14^th 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: 11^th 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 13^th 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.

Hang Nga | Wanderlust Tips

Wanderlust Tips | Hot delicacies for cold winter days

Hot delicacies for cold winter days around the world

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.

[rpi]

LOHIKEITTO – CREAMY SALMON SOUP

In Lapland, the northernmost part of Finland, winters are freezing cold. Temperatures can reach as low as -45^oC or -50^oC. 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.

Truc Ha | Wanderlust Tips

Gala celebrations to mark inaugural sailing of the Victoria Mekong

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.

[rpi]

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 20^th 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

Tel: +84(0) 292 3683366 / 292 3683388

Email: resa@victoriamekong.com / rm.vmk@victoriamekong.com

Website: www.victoriamekong.com

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

wanderlust-tips-khai-truong-john-anthony-thuong-hieu-am-thuc-quang-dong-duong-dai2

JW Marriott Hanoi announces opening of contemporary Cantonese restaurant: John Anthony

John Anthony Hanoi is set to open its doors on 12^th December 2019, which will mark the restaurant’s first venture in Vietnam and international debut.

[rpi]

Led by Executive Chef Wong Chi Ming, already known to customers as the Head Chef of Crystal Jade Palace at JW Marriott Hanoi since 2014, the menu at John Anthony Hanoi is defined predominantly by Cantonese classics with a contemporary twist, whilst also borrowing from Sichuan cuisine. Handmade dim sum, barbequed meats – including John Anthony’s signature 42-day Roasted Peking Duck – and live seafood dishes form the cornerstone of the culinary offering using quality, sustainably sourced ingredients.

The concept for the restaurant was informed by the historical figure of John Anthony, a Chinese citizen and interpreter who travelled from East to West as an employee of the East India Company during the Qing Dynasty, and the journey he would have undertaken from China before arriving in Limehouse, the East End docklands of London. Historically known only by his English nickname ‘John Anthony’, when he settled in London he acted as an interpreter and caretaker for the Asian traders who journey West with commodities from the Far East. As a result of the role he played in facilitating the flourishing trade between East and West, John Anthony came to be known as ‘the Father of Limehouse’, London’s first Chinatown.

As the first-ever Chinese restaurant in the world designed with a sustainable approach, John Anthony was initially created in Hong Kong to set a new standard of environmental consciousness within the industry, with sustainability deeply embedded in the restaurant’s interior design, food sourcing, drinks program and kitchen practices. JW Marriott Hanoi is thrilled to welcome a restaurant brand that is paving the way for such crucial practices in the hospitality industry. Small steps have been taken to adopt the same approach in the Hanoi venue, such as using coasters and chopstick holders made from upcycled plastic, menus made with recycled paper and handmade ceramics sourced from Bat Trang Village. The kitchen makes an effort to work with local producers and suppliers as much as possible, supporting those who adopt the ethical business practice.

For the elegant interiors, Grey Matters Studio drew inspiration from both classic Chinese décor and western architectural elements to emulate the original character’s story of emigrating from the East to the West. Installation of custom compasses depict an abstract map of John Anthony’s route, whilst hand-painted murals show scenes he may have encountered. The design references architectural elements and trade commodities that John Anthony would have come across during his voyage between the two hemispheres, and from his experience hosting sailors and tradesmen at the world’s first Chinatown, in Limehouse, London.

Located at the hotel’s ground level, the 208-seater venue is open for lunch and dinner daily. The restaurant, which spans over 4500 square feet, houses the main dining area and 5 private dining rooms that range in capacity from 8 to 30 people, to accommodate both intimate dining experiences and extensive gatherings.

JOHN ANTHONY HANOI

Address: 8 Do Duc Duc, Me Tri Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi, Vietnam | Phone: (+84) 24 3833 5588

Opening Hours: Lunch: Monday – Friday: 11.30am – 2.00pm, Saturday & Sunday: 10.30am – 2.30pm | Monday – Sunday: 6.00pm – 9.30pm

Wanderlust Tips

Thanksgiving: Marking the start of the festive season

Thanksgiving has played a significant role in the West for many years. 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.

[rpi]

HISTORY

Thanksgiving is a national holiday and has a profound meaning for Americans and Canadians. In Canada, Thanksgiving is held on the second Monday of October, but the Americans usually celebrate the holiday on the fourth Thursday of November. Where did Thanksgiving derive from and why were these days specifically chosen to celebrate Thanksgiving each year?

There is a range of rumours about the origin of the first Thanksgiving. In theory, Thanksgiving is associated with harvest feasts in European countries. However, many people generally believe that Thanksgiving was started in 1619 when 38 English colonists moved to Virginia, the celebration started to thank God for helping them stay safe along the way. In North America, the feast was first held in Newfoundland to thank God for helping Martin Frobisher and his expedition team survive their journey from England. Legend also has it that Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and Texas organised a Thanksgiving party to celebrate their discovery of food in 1541.

Many hypotheses for the Thanksgiving origin have been given, but most people believe that the celebration is to give thanks to God for blessing the successful harvests since 1621 in North America. On 28^th September 1789, the first Federal Congress formally passed a resolution asking for Thanksgiving Day to be celebrated as a national holiday. A few days later, George Washington – the president of the United States issued a proclamation naming the 26^th November as a “Day of Public Thanksgiving”, the first Thanksgiving was celebrated under the new Constitution.

REUNION DAY

Since 1863, the United States has considered Thanksgiving as a four-day holiday from Thursday to Sunday. This is a great opportunity for people to return and gather with their family as well as meeting friends after a long time of working and study.

A far cry from other important holidays such as Independence Day or Christmas with an amazing variety of communal activities, for instance, fireworks and spectacular performances, Thanksgiving bears its own unique traditions. Every house on every street becomes crowded and the holiday brings a warm atmosphere. At this time, family members are busy cleaning and decorating their house as well as preparing a Thanksgiving dinner.

When thinking of the dinner table on Thanksgiving, we will immediately imagine a whole host of fascinating delicacies that have been talked about in many tales over the years. A giant roasted turkey, a dish of traditional pumpkin pie and an array of delicious dishes are spread out on the table. Enjoy delectable food and sip a glass of wine whilst cracking jokes as a fluffy blanket of snow covers the streets outside, it is truly the most beautiful time of year. With regards to the turkey – very much the secular symbol of the holiday, the turkey Pardon is also a must. Amongst the tens of millions of turkeys that will be killed for the holiday, one lucky turkey will be given another chance at life by the US president.

LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS ABOUT THANKSGIVING

Black Friday – the day after Thanksgiving has been regarded as the beginning of the year-end shopping season in Western countries. The term “Black Friday” comes from the events that took place thanks to the terrible congestion as people rushed to the streets to shop after Thanksgiving in 1965 in Philadelphia, USA. Therefore, Black Friday has gradually become more and more popular. Many retailers offer discounted sales on Black Friday and consider it a golden trading opportunity, turning losses into profits. The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was recorded live on NBC in 1924. The parade held by the Macy’s retail chain is home to a range of thrilling performances. Notably, people dressed in vibrant costumes such as giant balloons, animals or famous cartoon characters who then march through the streets in New York.

“Jingle Bells”, a hit popular at Christmas, was originally a Thanksgiving song. James Pierpont composed the song in 1857 for children celebrating Thanksgiving. Its title was “One Horse Open Sleigh”.

American football is a particularly important tradition on this important holiday. The whole family will gather around the TV to watch and comment about the dramatic game together on Thanksgiving Day.

Frozen meals were often derived from leftover Thanksgiving food. When a food company could not consume the turkey leftovers, they had the idea to add them into individual meals served with a few vegetables and seasonings for sale.

Thanksgiving is not just an ordinary holiday where people gather and enjoy delicious food, it also beholds an extremely profound meaning. Thanksgiving is a great opportunity for everyone to gather together and celebrate their achievements after working hard, it is a precious and sentimental time to switch off from the chaos of everyday life. It is a special occasion when children return to their parents, grandchildren visit their grandparents and friends reunited after not seeing each other for a long time.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AMERICAN AND CANADIAN THANKSGIVING

American

>> The fourth Thursday of November.

>> Americans love shopping on Thanksgiving.

>> No matter where Americans are, they will visit their families.

Canadian

>> The second Monday of October.

>> There are not many differences between Thanksgiving and any normal day.

>> Canadians will wait until Christmas to visit their family.

Explanation

>> Because Canada is farther north and the harvest season comes earlier than America.

>> For Canadians, Thanksgiving is a long weekend.

>> For Canadians, Christmas is the best time for a long-distance trip.

Thu Ha | Wanderlust Tips

wanderlust-tips-celebrates-festive-season-at-sheraton-nha-trang-hotel-amp-spa3

Celebrates festive season at Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa

Nothing is more wonderful than being with your family and friends to welcome the sacred moment in a cozy place, under sparkling lights and joyful melodies at Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa.

[rpi]

It’s that time of the year! The atmosphere of Christmas permeates among the street, presents to every house of the coastal city and seeps into our heart.

CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER:

Celebrate cheerful moments with the people you love, indulge in the hearty dinner while you are enjoying the special performance of the Sheraton Carol Choir, a magic show and Balloon man as well as an exciting lucky draw with fabulous prizes and a special appearance of Santa Claus.

At: Feast restaurant, level 1, Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa
Time: 6pm – 10:00pm | Tuesday, December 24th, 20189
Priced at VND 2,200,000++/adult including 1 glass of sparkling wine and 4 hours of house wines, local beers

CHRISTMAS BRUNCH:

Bring your family together for a warm and exquisite Christmas Brunch with traditional dishes of the season such as roasted turkey with chipolatas, honey & star anise roasted ham, sweet treats. All are well-prepared by our top talented chefs.

At: Feast restaurant, level 1, Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa
Time: 12:30pm – 3:00pm | Wednesday, December 25th, 2019
Priced at VND 890,000++/adult including the free flow of house wines and local beers

Give your kids have a joyous experience learning to decorate their own gingerbread man, only with VND 220,000++ per child.

CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER:

Overcome the cold winter night by the warmth of friendship, filled with the joys of the Festive season. Experience the scrumptious Christmas dinner with your loved ones with hot soups, various selections of fresh succulent seafood, tasty grilled meats, salads, sweet desserts, and many other distinctive counters.

At: Feast restaurant, level 1, Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa
Time: 6 pm – 10 pm | Wednesday, December 25th, 2019
Priced at VND 990,000++/adult including the free flow of house wines and local beers

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER:

Ring in the New Year with an evening of festivity, vibrant performances and delicious dishes. Our talented chefs will create an array of festive dishes combined between Northern and Western flavour, while you can revel in traditional Vietnamese live performances such as traditional music, Lotus dance, Co Ba Saigon dance, H’mong dance, magic show, live music and lucky draw.

At: Feast, level 1, Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa
Date: 6:30 pm-midnight | Monday, December 31st, 2019
Priced at VND 2,800,000++/adult including 1 glass of sparkling wine and 4,5 hours of house wines, local beers

Special offer for Early booking: 10% off – before 20 December 2019 *Children under 12 years old eat free

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Fortuna Hanoi: Yu Sheng good luck toss salad

These early spring days, right here in Hanoi, you can enjoy Yu Sheng, traditional food symbolizing prosperity, wealth and good.

[rpi]

Yu Sheng is a traditional dish in Lunar New Year, especially in Singapore. Prosperity Fish Salad is a sophisticated preparation of 24 different delicious and fresh ingredients such as salmon, grated vegetables, sauces and condiments, each of them has a special meaning for the New Year.

Salmon symbolizes prosperity for the whole year; five spices and pepper associated with the treasure; green radish stands for longevity; kumquat squeezed on the fish is a great blessing; white sesame wishes for success and plum sauce is for happiness.

Yu Sheng is renowned for its symbol of well-wishes and abundance, and associated with " whipping up luck" by the act of tossing up the delicacy. The higher the toss, the greater the fortune and success it will bring. While mixing, people will toss the salad seven times, shout " Prosperity! More prosperity!" and send all the best wishes to each other for the New Year.

Yu Sheng Prosperity Toss is introduced at Fortuna Hotel from January 6th to February 8th 2020 with 3 options:

Happiness (2-3 persons) at 480,000VND++
Prosperity (4-6 persons) at 680,000VND++
Fortune (8-10 people) at 880,000VND++

FORTUNA HANOI HOTEL

Address: 68 Lang Ha, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Phone: (84.24) 3831 3333

Website: fortuna.vn

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

What does a Michelin-starred chef say about green cuisine?

When we talk about green cuisine, we are not only talking about food that is good for our health, we are also considering the issue of protecting the environment and our future life on Earth. Chef Alain Dutournier expressed his own views on green cuisine at the Festival of Flavours held between November 19^th and 23^rd at Press Club to praise French haute cuisine.

[rpi]

Sustainable development in cuisine is in the interest of many countries all over the world today. Many restaurants also focus on this emerging trend with the aim of serving diners with clean dishes from farm to table. Additionally, they also study measures to reduce the use of electricity, water and single-use plastic materials to save energy and limit waste, which in turn contributes to protecting the lives of future generations.

Chef Alain Dutournier of Press Club has always followed a “green living” lifestyle. He was born and raised in the countryside in southwest France. Since his childhood, he has been acquainted with homegrown fruit and vegetables, cattle and poultry raising and seafood. He also has fond childhood memories of a range of rustic dishes made by his mother and grandmother, so he has a profound understanding of the exquisite value of authentic local products. After he had become a great cook with two Michelin-star restaurants in Paris, he still enjoyed wandering around the markets, shopping for seasonal ingredients and using clearly-derived food to create new menu ideas.

“I have a strict demand for quality of natural ingredients. At Press Club, I always follow the philosophy of respecting nature and maximising the freshness and deliciousness of ingredients. They play an important role in bringing the exceptional taste to my dishes as well as ensuring nutritional value for our diners and consciousness in protecting our environment” revealed chef Alain Dutournier.

From his perspective, strictly controlling ingredients does not limit the creativity of the chefs. His dishes are always appreciated for their originality and novelty, from cooking to decoration. “From seemingly regular ingredients, a talented chef can plate up countless memorable dishes for culinary connoisseurs with just a few minor variations. You can lose yourself on my unique culinary journey at the Festival of Flavours” he said.

Aside from using a reliable source of ingredients, green cuisine incorporates an amazing variety of cooking methods. Alain Dutournier always respects and appreciates authentic ingredients. He strongly objects dishes that use too much spice and fat as diners cannot appreciate the original taste of the ingredients.

In his opinion, using the right combination of seasonings just compliments the freshness and deliciousness of the ingredients, rather than deceiving the diners’ tastes. For example, when creating oyster jelly, he added seawater to highlight the rich taste of the oysters. Enhancing the flavour this way had diners feel as if they were exploring the depths of the ocean.

There are very little leftovers in the Press Club kitchen. Every dish is prepared and cooked in an extremely meticulous way. Therefore, chefs can accurately estimate the number of ingredients needed to reduce leftovers and out-of-date food. Plastic and nylon materials are also minimised and are gradually being replaced with organic products. The use of locally sourced ingredients is also encouraged to ensure the freshness and uniqueness of every dish.

Chef Alain also gives advice for people at home, “If possible, you could make your own small garden, on the ground or balcony, you could even plant vegetables in foam boxes and put them on the rooftop. Wherever you grow your own produce, you will have a clean source of vegetables to ensure healthy meals for your family”.

Green cuisine is becoming a popular trend worldwide. According to reports in the food industries around the world, consumers are paying more attention to the origin of ingredients, not only with home-cooked food but also food at restaurants, even bars. In Vietnam, restaurants that have strict control of ingredients like Press Club are not as popular, but the Press Club is confident in its competitiveness thanks to diners’ willingness and support.

Press Club

Address: 59A Ly Thai To, Hanoi | Website here

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Christmas and New Year Celebrations at Hotel Nikko Saigon

Hotel Nikko Saigon is delighted to introduce the exclusive dining events in this Festive Season 2019 starting from 1^stDecember 2019 to 1^st January 2020. Combining fabulous food, great ambience and twinkling decorations, whether you’re celebrating with friends, family or colleagues, it will be a wonderful time to remember.

[rpi]

A multitude of delightful culinary offerings will wonderfully make special moments whether you are choosing an extravagant Dinner Buffet in La Brasserie, taking part in the Dim Sum Lunch experience in Ming Court, or New Year Countdown Party at The Lounge.

CHRISTMAS BUFFET DINNER

La Brasserie restaurant welcomes you and your beloved ones with a joyful Buffet Dinner in the intimate ambience.

A vast selection of fresh seafood includes Cadoret Special “S” & Belon Oyster, Lobster, Tiger Prawn, Cod Fish and Monk Fish; Australian Prime Ribs, French Corn-Fed Coquelet, Foie Gras and Tender Turkey, traditional Christmas pudding and the freshest selection of vegetables sit together on our exquisite menus with more contemporary alternatives to satisfy the tastes and appetites of our most discerning guests.

(*) Kids will receive special gifts from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day evening.

Christmas Eve – Buffet Dinner

Time: 24^th December 2019, 18:00 – 22:00

Price: VND 2,100,000 ++ per person (*)

Christmas Day – Buffet Dinner

TIme: 25^th December 2019, 18:00 – 22:00

Price: VND 1,500,000 ++ per person (*)

(*) Including free flow of sparkling wine, house wine, Festive cocktail, beer, soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call us at (028) 3929 5520 or (028) 3925 7777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn

EXQUISITE GINGERBREAD HOUSE

The gingerbread house has been a traditional gift of raising children’s dreams at Christmas time. Hotel Nikko Saigon’s Gingerbread House is truly a feast for the senses. This Christmas staple, located in the hotel lobby is unique since it is richly ornamented with delectable sweets and confectioneries that will not only bring children in awe but adults as well. Revel in its wide array of choices for handmade take-away specialities inspired by the joyous season!

Festive goodies include Frosty Christmas Fruit Cake, Christmas Strawberry Cake, Chocolate, Ginger Bread House, Stollen, Log Cake, Red Fruits Cookies, Panettone and Pandoro Selections and much more.

Available from 1-25 December 2019, daily 8:00am – 8:00pm.

For more information or to purchase the festive goodies, please call us at (028) 3929 5520 or (028) 3925 7777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn. Or visit our Gingerbread House at the Hotel Lobby.

NEW YEAR’S EVE – BUFFET DINNER

La Brasserie’s New Year Eve buffet dinner is sumptuous with a lot of choices from Wagyu Beef, Corn-Fed Coquelet, Grilled Chuletero, Beef Tenderloin, Foie Gras, Roasted Prime Ribs, Duck Rillettes in addition to the vast selection of fresh seafood includes Cadoret Special “S” & Belon Oyster, Alaskan King Crab, Lobster, Salmon, Monk Fish and Turbot Fish will surely create the ultimate memorable moments.

Time: 31^st December 2019, 19:00 – 23:00

Price: VND 2,200,000 ++ per person

Including free flow of sparkling wine, house wine, Festive cocktail, beer, soft drinks, coffee and tea.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call us at (028) 3929 5520 or (028) 3925 7777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn.

NEW YEAR’S DAY DIM SUM BRUNCH

Ring in the festive celebrations with delightful offerings at Ming Court and embark on a stunning Chinese cuisine with a Taiwanese touch through an exquisite Dim Sum Brunch. With an emphasis on unsurpassed quality, a wide range of delicate All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum with chef’s signature dishes such as Shark’s Fin, Lobster, Black Grouper and much more on the buffet lines.

Time: 1^st January 2020, 11:00 – 14:00

Price: VND 700,000 ++ per person, including welcome tea and hot tea.

For more information or reserve a table, please call us at (028) 3929 5520 or (028) 3925 7777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn.

COUNTDOWN PARTY PACKAGE

Welcome the New Year 2020 with vibrant music, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and traditional balloon drop at The Lounge of Hotel Nikko Saigon is a fitting with fabulous Countdown celebration!

Time: 31^st December 2020, 9:00pm – 1:00am

Price: VND 2,500,000++/package recommended for 4 – 6 persons

Including 01 bottles of spirit, 01 bottle of sparkling wine, 01 bottles of wine, 03 cans of soft drinks and canapé included.

Live Band from 10:00 pm to midnight.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call us at (028) 3929 5520 or (028) 3925 7777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn.

—-

All prices are subject to 5% service charge and 10% VAT

Early ticket purchases are highly recommended and advance reservations are required for all festive dining events.

For more information or purchase tickets, please call us at (028) 39295520 / (028) 39257777 – Ext.5999, email festive@hotelnikkosaigon.com.vn or visit our Festive desk at Hotel Lobby.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

The imposing stone fortresses in Haiti

My husband and I rented a car for a self-drive trip around Haiti. We got to see many marvellous things during our trip including Port-au-Prince capital and Province Nord. We also stopped by Milot to admire the largest fortress in the Americas.

[rpi]

There are many stone fortresses in the world dating back to ancient times. In the past, almost all the fortresses were built for military use, so their architecture and location were always designed with this in mind. The aim was to display strength, so the fortresses were designed in a unique and magnificent architectural style equipped with an observatory and defence systems. Haiti is well known as the country of the fortresses. Due to the turbulent history of Haitian wars, Haitian people constructed many exotic fortresses.

THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF DEFENSIVE WALLS

It took us nine hours to travel the 250-km route from Port-au-Prince to Milot because the traffic in Haiti was terrible. The closer we got to the outskirts, the worse the road became as it is mainly covered with gravel, rocks and is unpaved. Despite the tricky journey to find the largest fortress in Haiti, I was extremely surprised and excited. Measuring around 27,750sq. km, Haiti is home to hundreds of large and small fortresses. When travelling across the country, every 20km or so, the remains of an old stone fortress can be seen. Due to its geographic location and mountainous terrain, the ancient Haitians focused on building many stone fortresses at altitude to prevent foreign invasions. Therefore, stone fortresses have become a significant symbol of Haitian slave revolutions. Additionally, the stone strongholds built by a large number of slaves are embroiled with Haitian history.

In Port-au-Prince, after the impressive victory of the slaves in 1802, Jean-Jacques Dessalines – the leader of the revolution later proclaimed himself king. He also built five solid fortresses in succession and named the main fortress of the capital after himself. A huge effort was made to retain national independence due to the threat of Europeans returning to attack. Therefore, these strongholds and fortresses were pivotal in deterring the return of the French army.

As an enthusiast of culture and history, I admire both intact cultural sites and the remnants of those which have been left in disrepair. As we drove through Saint-Marc which is home to many deserted palaces and ancient fortresses covered with vines, the untouched landscape reminded me of bygone times. Today, the place only features some remnants and ruins, but I know it used to be the great pride and refuge of so many people fighting for freedom. A feeling of mercy suddenly filled my heart.

ADMIRE THE LARGEST FORTRESS IN THE AMERICANS

After a long journey from Port-au-Prince, I spent a night in Milot. The following day, we continued our adventure to fully admire the beauty of Citadelle Laferrière and San Souci Palace. Citadelle Laferrière, or Citadelle Henri Christophe, or simply Citadelle, is a large mountaintop fortress in Province Nord, Haiti. It is one of the largest fortresses in the Americas and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, along with the nearby Sans-Souci Palace.

The ancient fortress was built by Henri Christophe – a key leader during the Haitian slave rebellion after Haiti gained its independence from France in the early 19th century. With its beauty and historical significance, this mountaintop fortress has itself become an imperative icon in Haiti. The images of the fortress have been printed on the currency, stamps and posters of the tourism organisation for many years. I have even seen the vivid images of the Citadelle Laferrière in street art.

Early the following morning, we drove about 8km from Milot to the foot of the mountain leading to the Citadelle Laferrière. From a steep path paved with rocks, there are two ways that you can reach the mountain including a 30-minute walk or a horse ride for about USD10 per person. Although walking made my legs tired and riding a horse made my bottom numb, I found the experiences were so great. It is also very easy to find a local guide who can speak multiple languages.

The winding slope cuts through the lush green forest like a giant snake. In summer, the green hills and mountains are dotted with brilliantly red phoenix flowers. Thanks to the sunshine and wind, the tropical land is home to an abundance of beautiful phoenix flowers.

The path is really long and I thought it would never end. It was not until I saw the spectacular Citadelle Laferrière fortress appear in the distance. Protruding from the mountainside, the whole Citadelle Laferrière was engulfed in the early-morning mist. At this time, the slope seemed higher and higher, standing out against the grandeur of the mountains. After breaking out in a sweat, I was determined to go ahead and the Citadelle Laferrière gradually appeared in a full view.

With an area of over 10,000sq. m, this massive stone structure was built by 20,000 workers between 1805 and 1820. The entire building was designed deftly and carefully. Due to an amazing variety of different angles, multiple vantage points that can be easily accessed. As a result, the direction of the cannons could be altered if attacked. The 40-metre impenetrable stone walls of the fortress were constructed by mixing mortar, lime, molasses and cow blood.

Inside the fortress, there was a water storage tank and a warehouse. According to the guides, they could store food for more than 5,000 people a year. The fortress also included many palaces for the kings and his family in case they needed a refuge. They also stocked more than 300 large cannons with royal badges from the 17th century that are still kept there.

Thanks to all the strategic plans of the Haitian king at the time, the French never returned or invaded. Today, the Citadelle Laferrière still stands, boasting a spectacular beauty amidst the wild forests and mountains.

W.Tips

VISA

The Haitian Embassy in Vietnam is located at 44/4 Van Bao Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi City. You can make an online visa application or easily apply for a Haitian visa at the embassy at a cost of USD75. However, there is no direct flight from Vietnam to Haiti, hence you need to carefully check in-transit visa procedures.

TRANSPORTATION

With the hilly and mountainous terrain, Haiti is home to many narrow and steep roads. Thus, you need to consider when choosing your mode of transportation. In Haiti, you can rent a car for around USD40 a day and self-fill the tank with gasoline. If travelling here for the first time, you should hire a driver because of the Haitian roads. For short journeys, you could save money by taking a Tap Tap, a vehicle resembling a motorbike in Vietnam. Negotiate the price before booking, it should cost around 50 Haitian gourdes (=VND12,500) for 2km.

CLIMATE

Haiti is a tropical country with lots of sunshine. You should wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen during your trip. It rains very a little in Haiti.

CUISINE

You do not need to worry about eating in Haiti as the spices and dishes here are very palatable. A meal in a restaurant costs an average of USD15. Haitian cuisine is a rich blend of wild African flavours and sophisticated European cuisine. It is undeniable that the French culture had a huge influence on Haiti. Not only do the Haitians use French as their official language but they also have their meals with cheese, bread, butter and a wealth of French desserts.

Mori | Wanderlust Tips

TRANSPORTATION TO HUNG YEN

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.

John Anthony Hanoi is set to open its doors on 12th December 2019, which will mark the restaurant’s first venture in Vietnam and international debut.

Thanksgiving has played a significant role in the West for many years. 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.

Nothing is more wonderful than being with your family and friends to welcome the sacred moment in a cozy place, under sparkling lights and joyful melodies at Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa.

These early spring days, right here in Hanoi, you can enjoy Yu Sheng, traditional food symbolizing prosperity, wealth and good.

John Anthony Hanoi is set to open its doors on 12^th December 2019, which will mark the restaurant’s first venture in Vietnam and international debut.