Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 138 of 196

Celebrate Festive Season at Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi

The festive season and the coming New Year are one of the most special times, when friends and family can come together and celebrate the blessings of the past year and consider those to come in the next. On this occasion, Moevenpick Hotel Hanoi offers many special culinary programs with attractive incentives.

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1. MAGICAL CHRISTMAS EVE

Invite yourself and loved ones to an enchanting night at our Magical Christmas, starring master illusionist Duc and live jazz performance. Your children will never be bored by activities at Kid’s Corner with lots of fun from our balloon artist and Christmas movies on a big screen. Delight your taste buds as Mangosteen’s culinary team has prepared an irresistible holiday buffet menu featuring traditional Swiss Christmas delights.

Santa Claus will have a special appearance to give gifts to your children. Especially, bookings made prior to 15th December 2017 will receive 15% off total bill. Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet will be held from 6.30 pm on 24th December 2017 with the price of VND1,250,000++/aldult and VND625,000++/child under 1.3 metre.

2. MAGICAL CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON

Coming to Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi on 25th December 2017, you will have a hearty Christmas luncheon with delicacies set menu from12.30 am – 2.30 pm with the price of VND750,000++/aldult and VND375,000++/child under 1.3 metre. Santa Claus will have a special appearance to give gifts to your children.

3. NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER

Let the Chefs surprise you with an array of exceptional delicacies in a form of exquisite international buffet, accompanied by the most unusual entertainment performance. New year’s eve dinner buffet will be held from 7.00 pm on 31st December 2017 with the price of VND1,550,000++/aldult and VND775,000++/child under 1.3 metre.

4. NEW YEAR LUNCHEON

Celebrate the start of 2018 with New Year’s Day buffet featuring oyster, Froie Gras and green salads in the refined and relaxed surroundings of Mangosteen Restaurant. New year luncheon semi buffet will be held from 11:30 am – 2:30 pm on 1st January 2018 with the price of VND650,000++/person and VND325,000++/child under 1.3 metre.

5. PACKAGES BOOKING BY REQUEST

If you are planning your year-end party or a family gathering – Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi‘s experienced team would be happy to provide you with a concept, individually prepared to your special needs. Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi leave nothing to chance and ensure your event will be memorable andtailor-made to your expectations.

“Feast of Happiness” package is at VND500,000++ per person. You can choose Western or Asian buffet, or Western or Asian set menu and will be offered complimentary one soft drink per person for the group of minimum 40 guests.

“Fortune Party” package is at VND600,000++ per person. You can choose Western or Asian buffet, or Western or Asian set menu and will be offered complimentary one soft drink per person or complimentary one additional beer per person for the group of minimum 40 guests.

“Celebration of Prosperity” package is at VND700,000++ per person. You can choose Western or Asian buffet, or Western or Asian set menu and will be offered Complimentary one hour free flow of soft drink and beer or complimentary two bottles of house wine for the group of minimum 40 guests.

Regarding the Festive drink package, you will be offered free flow of soft drink, beer with price of VND150,000++/person/hour and free flow of soft drink, beer and house wine with the price of VND250,000++/person/hour

6. HOLIDAY GIFT HAMPERS

Show your appreciation to your family, friends or work colleagues this year with our ‘Holiday Gift Hampers’. We have created three unique baskets this year to assist you in making the choice very easy. In which, Festive Hamper is at VND500,000++, Superior Hamper is VND700,000++, Premium Hamper is VND1,000,000++, Deluxe Hamper is VND1,200,000++ and Suite Hamper isVND2,500,000++.

Mövenpick Hotel Hanoi

Address: 83A Lý Thường Kiệt, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Tel: +84 4 38 22 28 00
Webite: www.movenpick.com/hanoi

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

December transportation news: Super cars and bikes revealed

In December, cars and bikes enthusiast will be overwhelmed by the new line-up of vehicles with outstanding features and appearance from world-renowned brands such as Lamborghini, Lotus, Yamaha, Honda and BMW.

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LAMBORGHINI TERZO MILLENNIO CONCEPT ELECTRIC CAR UNVEILED

Lamborghini has unveiled its first all-electric sports car concept, the Terzo Millennio. It is the result of the partnership between the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the luxury car manufacturer. The car has an advanced electric powertrain, an ultra-lightweight structure, and an extremely aerodynamic exterior. The concept has four electric motors powered by super capacitors, and energy storage devices which are built into the concept’s body panels. Lamborghini said the setup promises to provide fast recharging time which is aided by an advanced kinetic energy regeneration system.

LOTUS EXIGE CUP 430 LAUNCHED WITH POWER REACHING UP TO 430 BHP

Lotus has introduced the most extreme Exige ever, in the form of the Exige Cup 430. It boasts extra power, extra downforce and a sub-EUR100,000 price tag. Its top speed is 289 kilometres per hour, 56 kilometres higher than the standard Exige S and 8 kilometres faster than the Exige Cup 380. The body has been refreshed in Cup 430 guise, generating 220kg of downforce at high speed. The starting price is EUR99,800 for the Exige Cup 430, which is EUR16,800 more than the Exige Cup 380. While the Cup 380 is sold with limited numbers, the Cup 430 is available as a mass production product.

YAMAHA TRACER 900 AND TRACER 900 GT OFFICIALLY REVEALED

Yamaha has strengthened its sport-touring range with the introduction of a Tracer 900 GT, while also updating its Tracer 900. Featuring all of the 2018 upgrades, it adds a host of comfort-orientated hardware and electronics. There is a full-colour TFT display, which shows information including gear indicator, ambient temperature, coolant temperature, current riding mode, and fuel gauge. The Tracer 900 will be available in Nimbus Grey and Tech Black from March 2018, and the Tracer 900GT will be released three months later in Midnight Black, Nimbus Grey, and Phantom Blue.

HONDA REVEALED AFRICA TWIN ADVENTURE SPORTS

Honda has revealed a new variant of the CRF1000L Africa Twin known as the Africa Twin Adventure Sports at the 2017 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy. The Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports is an off-road focused version of the standard CRF1000L, and it comes with a host of cosmetic and mechanical updates. The new Africa Twin Adventure Sports features a bigger 24.2-litre fuel tank, higher riding position, long-travel suspension, and heated grips and extended fairing. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports was announced to go on sale early next year.

NEW TESLA ROADSTER REVEALED – THE ABILITY TO REACH 96KM/H IN 1.9 SECONDS

In the Tesla Semi electric truck unveiling event, Billionaire Elon Musk has introduced another remarkable product – the super sports car Tesla Roadster after a long time. Accordingly, this car will officially be released in 2020. The second generation Tesla Roadster can go from 0-96 kilometres per hour in 1.9 seconds and 0-160 kilometres per hour in 4.2 seconds, completing the 400 metres drag race in just 8.9 seconds. The top speed is expected to surpass 400 kilometres per hour. The Koenigsegg Agera RS has the current maximum speed record of 447 kilometres per hour.

2018 SUZUKI GSX-R1000 AND GSX-R1000R INTRODUCED WITH TWO COLOURS

Suzuki has unveiled the 2018 models of the GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R with new colour schemes. However, the bikes don’t have any mechanical changes. The GSX-R1000 now has two schemes, a white paint one with blue stripes or matte black with blue graphics. The higher-spec GSX-R1000R also gets the same white and blue theme, but it stands out with its front air intakes painted all blue. It also gets a gloss black paint scheme with grey graphics along with the blue wheels.

BMW K1600 GRAND AMERICA DEBUTS IN MILAN

BMW Motorrad is expanding its range in the full dresser touring segment with the addition of a model designed specifically for comfortable travel. The BMW K1600 Grand America saw its premiere at the world’s biggest motorcycle trade show, the EICMA in Milan from 7th – 12th November 2017. Derived from the BMW K1600 B, the new model combines the supreme performance of its 6-cylinder engine with exclusive equipment features that make long-distance rides both comfortable and fascinating in American highway cruising style, whether going alone or with a passenger.

HYUNDAI TO INTRODUCE 8 NEW SUVS IN THE US BY 2020

Hyundai Motor America has announced that it will be introducing eight SUVs in the US by the year 2020. The new line-up will include models from the A-segment size class all the way up to the eight-passenger mid-size class. The automaker has released its new crossover product ranges with the Hyundai Kona compact SUV that was unveiled earlier this year, and is set to go on sale in the US in March 2018. Apart from the Kona, the new line-up is likely to include the new Santa Fe Sport and a new generation Santa Fe.

Wanderlust Tips

Significance of different monikers for Japan

Japan is a famous destination in the world with a its rich culture and unique cuisine. The country has three different monikers which are widely used, but it seems like only someone knows its real meaning.

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1. JAPAN – LAND OF THE RISING SUN

The real name for Japan (in Japanese) is Nihon (日本) these characters mean “sun origin”. This can be loosely translated into English as “land of the rising sun”.

Nihon (日本) was the Chinese Imperial name for Japan from the Sui Dynasty (589-618 AD). It simply indicates the direction of Japan with respect to China. If you are in China — Japan is to the east. If you are in China it also appears that the sun rises from the direction of Japan.

Japanese language originally referred to Japan as wakoku (倭国). These characters mean “country of the wa”. Wa was an ethnic group that lived in Japan during the Three Kingdoms period (220 – 280 AD). The name Nihon was first used in correspondence with China. With time it gained popularity and became the name for Japan (in Japanese). The name is the inspiration for the Japanese flag.

2. FUSANG

Several Chinese texts of this era also refer to Fusang or Fousang, a mysterious land in the east. Buddhist missionary Hui Shen, for example, talked about a land he went to by ship 20,000 Chinese li to the east. Some people have said this was America, though more likely this was just another name for Japan.

Now, even though China knew that Japan existed, it was still a pretty wild and barbaric place. China didn’t know a whole lot about that area, and it was still a mystery. That’s why we’ll see multiple names for Japan during the same times; including ones that are super fantastical like this one.

In Chinese mythology, this “Fusang” is a divine tree that exists in the East where the sun rises. This at least shows that Fusang, wherever it is, is in the east. It also helps that this legend refers to the sunrise, because as you’ll find out later, Japan’s name all about the origin of the sun these days (Land of the Rising Sun). Even to this day, you’ll see some references to Fusou in Japan, usually having to do with some pretty nationalistic things. For example, during the World War II, a couple ships had the Fusou name including the Ironclad Fusou and the Battleship Fusou.

3. LAND OF THE CHERRY BLOSSOM

Japan is often called “The Land of the Cherry Blossom,” and it is true that for centuries their Sakura-no-hana has been the favourite flower of the Japanese. The refinement and grace of its beauty appeals to them so intensely, that the month of April, the time of the cherry blossom, might almost be regarded as a national holiday throughout the country.

Today, with the rise of globalization, Japan has become a popular attraction for tourists all over the world, earning it the nickname from foreigners – “the land of cherry blossoms”. While the sun symbolizes the interwoven culture of Japan in the olden days, the cherry blossom, also called “sakura”, symbolizes Japan’s beauty from the eyes of the outside world.

Foreigners seeing the line of Sakura trees along Kyoto parts are left with nothing but awed reactions. It is very hard not to associate cherry blossoms with Japan and vice versa. One does not even have to travel to Japan to know about the relationship of one towards the other. Cherry blossoms are more than just beautiful pink flowers; they are also the embodiment of the country and its true beauty.

The symbolism of the cherry blossom began in Japan, where they are known as sakura. Images of these blossoms pervade Japanese imagery, appearing in everything from film to paintings to poetry and literature. The samurai of feudal Japan lived by a strict moral code of honor not only in life, but in death as well it was their duty to simultaneously realize the inevitably to death, and release any fear of it. Their lives, marked by battle and conflict, were often cut short, and the fallen cherry blossom became the symbol of that short life.

During World War II, the cherry blossom became similarly associated with Japanese kamikaze pilots, who decorated their fighter aircraft with images of the flower before going on their suicide missions, dying “like beautiful falling cherry petals for the emperor,” as Japanese soldiers were once told during the Meiji period.

Wanderlust Tips

Festive season at Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An

It is the season of well wishing and memory making. At Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An, Guests are spoilt for choice to celebrate the most magical time of the year. From a romantic destination to tempting cuisine and glamorous events, all you need for a truly memorable season is here at the resort.

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Nothing marks the beginning of the yuletide season like the lighting of the Christmas Tree. Along with magnificent décor around the resort, Sunrise Premium Hoi An will host the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the hotel lobby on 3rd December to lift the spirit of Christmas. On this occasion, the resort will also invite 21 children from disadvantaged families to gather around a kid-friendly dinner to spread love and fun around.

Treat yourself to a get-away before the year ends or inviting your loved ones to experience the festive romance at Hoi An with our special room packages. The luxury resort offers 2 holiday packages for you to choose from at VND11,999,000++ for 2 night accommodation at Club Deluxe and VND14,999,000++ at Suite room. The packages include free afternoon tea at The Lounge, 10% off on Food and Beverage, Spa and Laundry, complimentary 1 extra bed for the 3rd person with breakfast, complimentary shuttle bus from/to Hoi An ancient town, etc. and valid from 20 Dec 2017 – 28 Feb 2018.

Moreover, holidays at Sunrise Premium Hoi An is time to experience the flavors, sounds and scents of the season. On Christmas Eve, delight in a wide selection of tempting dishes while being entertained by Christmas carols and live music from afternoon to evening. A visit from Santa Clause will offer a classic Christmas Eve ambiance. Boxing lunch with new festive menu presenting delicious appetizers and dessert buffet as well as DJ performance at The Lounge will be a perfect choice for gourmet lovers. A sumptuous New Year’s Eve dinner and amazing entertainments including lion dance and a remarkable Countdown Party will make your joyous night of celebration to usher in the new year.

Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa, Hoi An

Address: Au Co, Hoi An Town, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.
Tel: +84 (0235) 393 7777
Email: resa@sunrisehoian.vn

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Celebrate Festive Season at Metropole Hanoi

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi kicks off the holiday season with an official invitation-only Christmas Lights Ceremony on 1^stDecember. For the first time, British cycling legend David Lloyd will join forces with six foreign ambassadors to take part in a bicycle ‘race’ to generate enough electricity to turn on the hotel’s yuletide sign and lights.

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Lloyd, who recently won the Laguna Lang Co triathlon and the Vietnam Mountain Marathon in Sapa, will compete against six other cyclists including the UK, Italian, and Swiss ambassadors to Vietnam as well as two ambassadors from the European Union Delegation to Vietnam. The bicycle ‘race’ is part of a joint effort to raise awareness and funds for Newborns Vietnam, a UK registered charity dedicated to reducing neonatal mortality in Southeast Asia.

“As Christmas approaches, I’m pleased to show my support for Newborns Vietnam, which is making a real difference to the life chances of babies in Vietnam,” said the British Ambassador to Vietnam, Giles Lever. “The Metropole’s pedal-powered lighting ceremony is a fantastic way to highlight the incredible efforts of the British and international cycling community in Vietnam, while raising funds for a great cause.”

Meanwhile, a soaring 15-metre Christmas tree takes centre stage on the hotel’s rooftop garden, Le Balcon. This year’s evergreen will be illuminated with more than 50,000 bedazzling lights and decorated with some 1,250 Vietnamese conical hats.

In addition, a life-sized gingerbread house will be on show at L’Epicerie du Metropole, while a 4-metre evergreen will be on display in the Metropole’s lobby – festooned with 38 red “wishing cards” written by underprivileged children from the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. Based in Hanoi, Blue Dragon is an NGO that helps street kids, children from very poor families, and victims of human trafficking and slavery throughout Vietnam.

But, yuletide songs and glittering lights aren’t the only things the French colonial hotel has planned for this holiday season. On Christmas Eve, five special Christmas Eve dinners are on offer at the Metropole on 24^thDecember, each with a distinct theme and at price points that range from VND1,9500,000 to VND3,960,000. On Christmas day, the hotel will host a buffet and a dinner at its restaurants, ranging in price from VND1,650,000 to VND2,640,000.

On New Year’s Eve, with prices ranging from VND2,750,000 to VND4,500,000 gala dinners will be the order of the evening during the final hours of 2017, including: A 6-course dinner, including a vegetarian option, at Le Beaulieu; A Vietnamese gala dinner at Spices Garden; Two seatings (at 6pm and 8.45pm) for a New Year’s Eve buffet at Le Club; A 6-course gala dinner at Angelina; A countdown party, featuring a live jazz band and fireworks, by the hotel’s outdoor pool.

Throughout the festive season, the hotel features two particularly enticing opportunities. For a little holiday pampering, Le Spa du Metropole is offering a 15% discount on their signature Hanakasumi ritual. The 110-minute, Japanese-inspired treatment includes a special body scrub to help reinvigorate the skin, ease muscle tension, and promote circulation.

And for shoppers, the hotel’s delicatessen, L’Epicerie, is offering a range of delectable gourmet gifts, including foie gras, Fine de Claire oysters and turkey imported from the U.S., as well as the pastry chef’s piece de resistance, a traditional French Christmas log cake, known as “Buche de Noel”. Additionally, a special holiday
brochure will be gifted to all guests staying at the hotel during the festive season.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Experience European cuisine at Pincho: Tapas Kitchen and Drinks

Located on top of Hanoi Old Quarter, Pincho – Tapas Kitchen and Drinks offers a stunning view of twinkling city lights and a well-established chilling space for all beloved customers.

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Here, you can indulge yourself with astonishing variety of tapas, well-curated international wine range, and creative tiki cocktails. The innovative menu features thrilling interpretations of the freshest and most selected ingredients of the region. Setting high standards of service, Pincho hopes to enlighten customers’ days with wonderful dining experience.

Inspired by the tapas culture in Spain, Pincho is thrilled to bring signature social vibes and offer customers an exciting lifestyle to experience. At Pincho, variety of delectable small bites and selected drinks are waiting for you. All Pincho needs from you is just a group of friends, a free-out state of mind, and some energy to chill.

Please come and enjoy yourself in the world of tapas, richly flavorful ribeyes, as well as the collection cocktails which were inspired by asian flavors, married with vintage recipes and a well-curated international wine list, watching the city lights glimmer in the night sky. You also have the option of creating your very own menu for your party; just have a chat with one of Chefs who will be more than delighted to attend to your specific culinary needs.

PINCHO – TAPAS KITCHEN & DRINKS

Address: No. 27, Hang Be Street, Hanoi.
Tel: (+84) 91 436 28 87
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pincho.vn/

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Banyan Tree Lăng Cô was ranked the 50 best resorts in the world 2017

Banyan Tree Lăng Cô – part of the international integrated resort Laguna Lăng Cô, was honored to be ranked in ‘The 50 best resorts in the world 2017’ on Condé Nast Traveler. More than 30,000 travellers took part in the 30th annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey – setting yet another new record.

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The list this year is impressive with various destinations to travel, from private island resorts in the Indian Ocean to luxurious dude ranches in Montana and Wyoming, charming Lang Co surrounded by East Sea and Truong Son mountains in Vietnam and some wonderful resorts in South Africa. All thanks to the support from every wanderlust soul and voter who have shared their experience across social media platforms, in online forums, and in the Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Ranking with another 49 luxury resorts, Banyan Tree Lăng Cô takes the pride to be the only resort in Indochina has been mentioned as No.46 in the list.

In another award category of ‘Top Resorts In Asia: Readers’ Choice Awards 2017’ on Condé Nast Traveler, there are four winners from Vietnam including Banyan Tree Lăng Cô was listed as No.6 and the sister resort Angsana Lăng Cô ranked No.11.

Designed to bring you the feeling of closeness to nature, privacy and romance, Banyan Tree Lăng Cô nestled in a unique crescent bay framed by a three-kilometer beach overlooking the East Sea. Famous for its wonderful pristine beach, tropical jungle, the marvelous Truong Son Mountain Range and especially, Banyan Tree Lăng Cô proximity to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary.

The Banyan Tree brand delivers to guests a quintessential relaxation with the wonderful experience integrating with luxury service in the romantic and natural living. The spirit of Banyan Tree brand is based on the rejuvenation of mind, body and soul in awe-inspiring locations around the globe or it can be said that Banyan Tree is the “Sanctuary for the senses”.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Travel accessory you need based on your Zodiac sign

Your bags are packed and you’re ready to go. Whether you’re leaving on a jet plane, Amtrak, or even in an RV, you must take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth trip before you even step foot outside your door. Your astrological sign may be a good indicator of which accessory is right for you, as it unveils specific personality traits.

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CAPRICORN

As a Capricorn, it can be difficult for you to feel at ease, and often times you feel insecure when unfamiliar with your surroundings. Kill two birds with one stone by wearing a pocketed travel scarf — not only will it keep you cozy while traveling, but it has a secret zippered compartment for keeping your passport safe.

To buy: amazon.com, USD55

AQUARIUS

An Aquarian thrives on their independence, but sometimes it can be difficult to feel in control when traveling. Take charge with a pocket utensil set, so whether you’re cruising at 30,000 feet or spending a few days camping, you’ll never miss a meal.

To buy: uncommongoods.com, USD16

PISCES

As a Pisces, you enjoy traveling when it’s easy: no lines at the airport, no issues with luggage, no delays. Unfortunately, traveling is known to be unpredictable, stressful, and loud. Invest in these noise-cancelling headphones, so you’ll feel blissfully zen even if your trip starts off on a less-than-perfect foot.

To buy: amazon.com, USD20

ARIES

An Aries loves to adventure and hates to deal with the little mundane chores in life, so when it comes to traveling, the last thing you’ll want to do is organize a suitcase. Make the task easier with packing cubes, which will ensure a quick and easy prep before your trip and will maximize packing space in your suitcase.

To buy: amazon.com, USD27

TAURUS

A Taurus craves a comfortable lifestyle, but the constraints of jet-setting can sometimes feel like a drag. A luxury neck pillow will ease some of the discomfort that comes with hopping on a flight, meaning your layover will bring less suffering and more snoozing.

To buy: amazon.com, USD27

GEMINI

As a Gemini you are a fan of anything that helps make life more effortless and enjoyable, so there’s a good chance you’re looking for something to help maintain your simple-yet-chic style while on the road. This compact travel kit contains shampoo, conditioner, body cleanser, and a balm to keep you feeling impeccably clean no matter what.

To buy: nordstrom.com, USD37

CANCER

Cancers are creatures of habit and comfort, and traveling can, at times, feel a bit overwhelming. Find some zen with this contoured sleeping mask, specifically designed for travel — meaning that passenger who refuses to shut the window shade when you need some shut-eye won’t matter in the slightest.

To buy: amazon.com, USD13

LEO

Life is a party for a Leo, and nothing can stop you from having a good time, delays be damned. This carry-on cocktail kit contains everything from a recipe card to a muddler, so you can share a toast during takeoff.

To buy: amazon.com, USD24

VIRGO

Planning a trip as a practical Virgo means packing smart: you never bring something along you won’t absolutely need. Make your life simpler by traveling with a waterproof cosmetics kit, which organizes all your necessities in a neat and tidy portable bag that will remain unscathed from even the harshest of elements.

To buy: amazon.com, USD9

LIBRA

Libras seek balance in their lives, as reflected in the scale symbol of their astrological sign. What better accessory to travel with than a portable luggage scale, that will ensure your bags stay under the weight limit?

To buy: amazon.com, USD10

SCORPIO

If you’re a Scorpio, you probably need everything in your life to be in your control, so a messy carry-on can derail you. This travel cord roll will keep all of your electronic cords in a compact, tangle-free satchel, so you can focus on enjoying the journey and steer clear of untangling knots out of your headphones the entire trip.

To buy: uncommongoods.com, USD20

SAGITTARIUS

Sagittarians often have a ton of energy, and it can be difficult to truly unwind when you’re on the road. This travel diffuser is USB-powered and will make your car, hotel room, or hostel feel like a mini-spa, emitting scents of lavender, lemongrass, or peppermint so that you can sit back and relax — even if only for a moment.

To buy: uncommongoods.com, USD30.

Travel and Leisure | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Reconstructed Tuong Long Pagoda unveiled in Hai Phong

A reconstruction of the Tuong Long Pagoda, which was built in 1058 under the reign of Emperor Thanh Tong of the Ly Dynasty, was unveiled in the northern city of Hai Phong on 19th November.

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Chairman Hoang Xuan Minh of Do Son district, where the structure is located, said that the reconstruction work began in June 2008 and included a nine-storey pagoda placed on a square base with four stairs.

Inside the pagoda is an Amitabha Buddha statue sitting on a stone lotus base, while the area next to the pagoda is a stele house and an excavation site for storing many wooden and stone artefacts bearing the typical patterns of the Ly Dynasty. The remains of the original structure were already recognised as national heritage.

According to historical records, Emperor Thanh Tong ordered the construction of a pagoda when visiting the Do Son area and named it Tuong Long, meaning Auspicious Dragon after having a vision of a golden dragon in his dream. The original pagoda was 45 metres tall and built on top of hill roughly 100 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest towers at the time of its completion. In the past, Tuong Long was also used as a watch tower as part of an information transmission system in order to send warnings to the capital city if any suspicious foreign activities were detected offshore.

Since its construction nearly one thousand years ago, the pagoda underwent many renovations under the Tran and Le Dynasties but was demolished in the early 1800s to obtain bricks for the construction of the Citadel of Hai Duong.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Enjoy Christmas Season at Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers

The festive season is here again and all of us start to prepare to reconnect with family and friends during this special time, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers invite you to celebrate and enjoy a selection of festive dining options offered throughout the hotel venues.

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Enjoy many festive celebrations at the Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers throughout the month of December 2017 and early of January 2018. Coming here, you should stop by the giant Gingerbread house and Festive Season Counter to be updated on the hotel’s festive agenda, a choice of festive gift certificates, and to purchase a ticket in advance.

Enter the life-size gingerbread house located in the hotel lobby and be captivated by an assortment of Christmas treats that await you. Whether it is a festive gingerbread man, candy cane twist cookies or Christmas Yule log, you will find a treat to fill that Christmas stocking. The Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers also offers a selection of great ideas to help you choose that perfect gift for your loved ones this festive season.

1. TAKE-AWAY TURKEY FOR YOUR PARTY AT HOME

If you wish to host a Christmas Eve at home, the take-away roast turkey is the best choice for this party. Choose from Roasted US Turkey, Whole baked honey ham or Roast US Beef Rib Eye. There are a variety of appealing accompaniments and sauces such as grilled vegetables, gravy and garlic mashed potato.

From 20th November 2017 to 1st January 2018, you can buy Roast US Turkey with the price of VND3,200,000++ (Approx. 5 kg); Whole Baked Honey Ham with the price of VND900,000++ per 1 kg; Roast US Beef Rib Eye (Whole) with the price of VND1,900,000++ per 1 kg.

2. FESTIVE SPA PACKAGE

Enjoy the signature spa treatment with choices of festive spa package valued at only VND 1,335,000++ per package. Treat yourself with the Appear Serene Facial or Core Energy Body Massage using aromatic essential oils and natural ingredients to restore your energy balance, improve muscle tone and skin texture, give you a glowing appearance while creating a sense of total relaxation.

The Appear Serene Facial includes: Aqua foot soak, cleansing facial, exfoliation, facial massage, mask, shoulder & head massage, apply moisture cream & eye balm. And the Core Eneneergy Body Massage includes: Aqua foot soak, warm up body, Core Eneneergy Body Massage. This offer valid from 1st December 2017 to 31st January 2018.

3. FESTIVE ACCOMMODATION OFFER

Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers offers a variety of luxurious gift certificates including special accommodation offer, festive spa package or dining vouchers. Stay in the exquisite Premier Deluxe Room from VND3,800,000++ per room per night including buffet breakfast for up to two persons at Saigon Café Restauant with complimentary access to Sheraton Fitness and Swimming Pool. Or, experience the luxurious Grand Tower Studio from VND4,800,000++ per room per night, including full buffet breakfast and access to Grand Tower Lounge benefits for up to two persons.

4. YEAR-END EVENTS AT SHERATON SAIGON HOTEL & TOWERS

Sheraton Saigon is offering a selection of Festive event packages including Silver Package at VND1,280,000++ per person, Gold Package at VND 1,580,000++ per person. Both packages include: Set menu or Buffet menu and 2-hour free flow soft drinks & beer.

When you book for 200 persons or more, you can choose one out of the following benefits:Complimentary pre-dinner with canapés pass around (03 items); Complimentary parking, subject to availability; Complimentary internet access with maximum 100 connections; A buffet dinner voucher for 2 persons at Saigon Café Restaurant; Starry night light decor and Roboscans for bookings with min.300 persons guaranteed.

5. F&B FESTIVE ACTIVITIES AT SHERATON SAIGON HOTEL & TOWERS

The festive season is here again and as we start to prepare to reconnect with family and friends during this special time, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers invite you to celebrate and enjoy a selection of festive dining options offered throughout the hotel venues on the Christmas and New Year holidays.

At Saigon Café Restaurant on level 1, we will celebrate Christmas Eve 24/12 with Buffet Dinner at VND2,600,000++, Christmas Day 25/12 with Sunday Brunch at VND2,300,000++, Buffet Dinner at VND1,800,000++, New Year’s Eve 31/12 with Buffet Dinner at VND2,800,000++, New Year’s Day 1/1 with Sunday Brunch at VND1,588,000++ and Buffet Dinner at VND1,500,000++.

At Li Bai Restaurant, level 2, we will hold Christmas Eve 24/12 with Buffet Dinner at VND1,688,000++, New Year’s Eve 31/12 with Buffet Dinner at VND1,688,000++.

At Signature Restaurant, level 23, we will celebrate Christmas Eve with five-course set menu at VND2,250,000++; New Year’s Eve with six-course set menu at VND2,888,000++.

6. COUNTDOWN PARTY WITH KOREAN DJ AT LEVEL 23 NIGHTSPOT

Beautiful and talented DJ comes from Korea – DJ Ivy will be performing at Level 23 Nightspot for one exclusive night only, on Sunday, December 31th 2017. Celebrated female guest DJ Ivy is known as a DJ with the ability to read a crowd and play music to get everybody in the right mood. Her music ambition is to make everyone feel good and ready to ‘get up and dance’. DJ Ivy loves to entertain and brings an amazing and hypnotizing party vibe, promising to make the New Year’s Eve celebration at Level 23 Nightspot be an exciting and memorable night.

Don’t miss the chance to have DJ Ivy joined the New Year’s Eve celebration with you. Entrance fee is VND 828,000++ per person.

SHERATON SAIGON HOTEL & TOWERS