Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 152 of 196

General manager of Hong Kong Airlines Vietnam: Steven Wang

Born and raised in beijing, China, Steven Wang who has been in Vietnam over 8 years feels attached to the country and he considers it his second home. Here wanderlust Tips’s June shares with readers a very interesting coversation with the general manager of Hong Kong Airlines Vietnam.
[rpi]

Hello Steven. You started working for Hong Kong Airlines in 2007 and moved to Vietnam in 2009. Have you had any difficulty adjusting to life in Vietnam during the period?
I used to have a big fat body. And when I came here, because I could not adapt to Vietnamese food, I lost 10kg. Eating was a real challenge for me when I arrived in Vietnam, although China and Vietnam have innumerable cultural similarities. Thanks to that, now I have a much better shaped body than before (laughs).

You look much younger than the age of 48. What is your secret?
I have no secret. But that is probably because I have absorbed the spirit of Hong Kong Airlines’ slogan of “Fresh and very Hong Kong”.
Working here, means working in a youthful, dynamic and fresh environment: from the aircraft with the longest-service aircraft – up to six years in use, and most of the staff are around 30 years old. We also try to recognise and respond to the needs of a new client base of young travel enthusiasts who fly more and more. This is also one of the reasons why we choose different, potential and interesting destinations instead of just popular destinations in our airline network such as Okinawa or Sapporo (Japan), Gold Coast, Cairns (Australia). We have to build the customer base from the beginning, and of course take risks when exploiting non-popular destinations, however the competitive pressure is reduced as Hong Kong Airlines belongs to Hainan Airlines, which is also a young airline. And that youthful spirit has permeated our entire system.

Normally, the airline’s national chief representatives would hold a term of three to four years while you have been in Vietnam for eight years in this position. Did you bring your family with you?
I did not bring my family with me. I have a wife and a very cute 3-year-old daughter and they still live in Beijing. I always arrange a time for the family to stay together for about a week each month. Every year we go on vacation together to enjoy family time and I am quite sure that taking care of family and children is a very tiring job – even much more exhausting than working – as it includes feeding the children, playing with them, taking the children to the zoo, and holding the naughty child along the way (laughs). But at the same time it is incomparable happiness.
Why did you not bring your family here so that your family is always together? There are many good international schools in Vietnam that can provide a modern education.
Like Vietnam, China is a country with a long history and a strong cultural identity. And I believe many parents like me worry that our children will lose the identity of my people, although the education is extremely modern and superior today. I still want my child to be real Chinese, not a person with a mix of cultures. You know in China there is a term for people who deliberately give birth abroad (USA, Europe) so that their children can apply for citizenship of that country, and then they are raised there. These children are referred to as a “banana”, the peel is yellow but the flesh is white. At first glance, their appearance is still Chinese, but inside, it is difficult to define which country and culture these people belong to.

So in your position, living abroad more than in your country, communicating with many people from different cultures, how do you keep your identity Chinese?
I do not know. Perhaps the relationship with my friends and family will help me always feel deeply about my descent. Also, I like to cook and can cook Chinese food to always remember home cuisine. Fortunately, it is not difficult to find spices and ingredients of my country here.
Which destinations do you usually choose to travel to with your family? How do you feel about destinations in Vietnam?

We travel a lot, to Japan, Korea and also many destinations in Vietnam such as Ha Long, Hue, Danang and Mui Ne. There are many places that surprised me, although Vietnam is small, it has such beautiful scenery. However, there is a problem, which is that Vietnam’s high-class services have not been promoted much to Chinese people. Therefore my friends have very little information and I am the one who usually advises them to choose a good service in Vietnam.
Many Chinese are still buying cheap tours such as visiting Halong for only a few hundred dollars. While there are countless luxury yachts in the bay and the experience on those would make your trip truly perfect. You get what you pay for; you will enjoy the services that are worth every dollar that you spend.
And as you said, Vietnam is like your second home, how does it show?

I find it extremely comfortable to be here. During my free time, I play golf – there are many golf courses around Hanoi. If I do not play golf then I walk around the streets, invite friends to go for some glasses of beer, or eat delicious beef noodle (pho bo) in a small but super nice noodle stall on Hoang Hoa Tham Street. I also like to eat bun cha (Vietnamese grilled pork with vermicelli) and hot pot in Vietnam. Then we go together for a few cups of tea. Maybe you would be surprised, I can drink very thick tea, but if I drink only a little coffee such as Highland or Starbucks coffee, which is quite bland to the Vietnamese, I get… drunk.

Thank you for joining the interview with Wanderlust Tips. We wish you and your family good health, great success and full happiness.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

wanderlust-tips-meet-the-traveller-stay-with-the-local

Meet the travellers, stay with the locals

Travel to a distant country, meet a stranger, and… stay at their home for free? It sounds dangerous and risky. Who knows, they may be good people, or… perverts! However, hundreds of thousands of people do this everyday, through the Couchsurfing community. Life is always full of adventures, isn’t it? During a solo trip to Europe last year, I decided to overcome my fear to gain new experiences on my journey.
[rpi]

MEET PEOPLE FROM EVERY WHERE

In the middle of ancient Rome’s Piazza Venezia, I waited for Daniele. We had an appointment to meet each other in Rome, after our first meeting through Couchsurfing when he was in Vietnam two years ago. He took me to eat pasta and said that it was just one of the hundreds of Italian noodles that they could eat each day. Then, he told me about his latest trip to Cuba, where he had made new friends through Couchsurfing.

Couchsurfing is a community offering free accommodation. Travellers will sleep on the couch in the living room for a few days, which is why it is called “Couchsurfing”. For most backpackers, a warm, safe place to rest is enough. Because it is free, no one expects warm blankets or soft cushions. If they need those, they have to spend money to rent hotel rooms. The best things about Couchsurfing are meeting locals, chatting, discovering cultural differences, living together, and becoming friends. Couchsurfing does not mean people must stay together. If you cannot provide accommodation or do not have a need for free accommodation like me and Daniele, you can still meet, exchange culture, and become friends after chatting on the Couchsurfing forum.

After Rome, I met Emili in Barcelona. I had met her before, through Couchsurfing in Hanoi. She took me for a stroll by a beach in Barcelona, then we went to a bar in the centre of the old city – the Gothic Quarter – to drink Sangria, a Spanish fruit cocktail.
Meeting Daniel and Emili in distant countries as old friends was joyful and made everything less strange to me. They were very enthusiastic to introduce things to me; maybe they wanted to reciprocate the days in Vietnam that I took them around the city.

SELECTING THE HOST: LUCK OF THE DRAW

For the most part, on your journey, you will stay at the homes of strangers, people you will meet for the first time. Some surfers meet enthusiastic hosts who not only pick them up at the airport, but also cook for them or take them around. You are lucky if you get to meet up with enthusiastic people. On the other hand, during the times you have to manage your own trip, you will become more mature and more dynamic. For example, I read maps better after finding my way to the host’s house and going out by myself. This is a real challenge because Western streets look very similar, so it is easy to get lost, and the host’s timetable is also a matter. Once I found the house on time, but the door was locked and I could not call my host. Fortunately, a moment later, her housemate came back home; if not, I would have had to wait for a long time.

However, this is a “fifty – fifty game” and sometimes you will have bad luck. For example, another time, I arrived at 3pm but we were not meeting until 9pm. It is an unforgettable experience to carry a backpack on your shoulders, pulling a suitcase with one hand on the brick pavement of Brussels, holding an umbrella, and going to tourist attractions. The irony was, the host took me for a dinner but then told me she could not let me stay at her house because of an unexpected work trip. At 11:30pm in a strange place, I was wandering around with luggage on the street.

Fortunately, another friend on Couchsurfing knew I was in Brussels, so he invited me and my host to have a beer with a group of friends. After hearing my story, he said that night he would stay at his friend’s house so he could not accommodate me, but he would ask if I could stay one night. I felt like a poor homeless wanderer, waiting for the kindness of others. Going home with two strange boys is also risky. But, staying in a stranger’s house is risky from the beginning, so I decided to “take the risk.” Through Couchsurfing, I learned how to open up and trust strangers.
My intuition was right. For me, Belgium is the most friendly, enthusiastic country in Europe. I just had to wait a bit long because the host was busy… flirting. At around 1am, he convinced the girl he just made acquaintance to come home with us. He invited each of us for a glass of gin & tonic and showed his friend and me two couches,before going back to the bedroom with the girl. I was not sure if the two of them had “good sleep” but I “passed out” after a long day.
Despite some difficulties, I still find myself quite lucky. My hosts were all friendly. We did not spend a lot of time together, but I had a few interesting hours over meals, chatting with them. For example, lunchtime in Spain is at 3pm or 5pm because they need time for a siesta (a nap). Amsterdam often has costume festivals, where you can wear anything you like or nothing at all. It is Dutch!
Sometimes, I have been fortunate to have hosts with free time, and they would take me around. The most memorable time was when I stayed with a young director in Paris. After watching a French film, Amelie, he took me to the café and the canal in that film. It was wonderful.

COUCHSURFING OR SEXSURFING?

Many people say that Couchsurfing is different now than when it was launched in 2004. Some people will agree to let you stay in their house but then for money or sex. This is why some people call Couchsurfing “Sexsurfing.” If you just want to “surf on the couch” rather than “surf on the bed with stranger” then choose your host carefully. But even so, sometimes it’s hard to resist handsome Western guys. My first host in Madrid was a bodybuilding teacher. Lord, I only knew that when I met him in person. He did not wear a top after leaving the bathroom, and then he asked me if I was cold, and that his room was ready for me. I glanced at his six-pack, tried my best to refuse. I want to explore the country and the people here, but not this way. But maybe some people think this is the best way to discover?
Continuing the story in Brussels, on the second night, I moved to another host’s house. He was five years younger than me, French, and living in Brussels. I preferred to stay with locals, but he was very willing to help when I was in trouble, so I did not refuse. He took me to eat French Fries; the famous Belgium fried potato, and told me why he decided to come here.
He also introduced me to some must-see museums. Things were very fun and pleasant until we returned home. Suddenly he asked me if he could kiss me. When I reminded him that he had a girlfriend, he said that’s okay, because he is French.

I hope not every French person is like this. It also seems like there are weird people everywhere. The 45-year-old host in Amsterdam was very confusing when he showed me some of her and her friend’s costumes: female tight-fitting leather outfitsthat look like swimsuits with a hole at the bottom (!?) and… handcuffs. She wanted to cosplay as Christian Gray in a female version, with a 50 Shades of Gray theme, but I am not a fan of 50 Shades so I just said, “No, thank you, I must go to bed now.” Istill wonder, why did I only refuse them and not run away from these strange people? Maybe I was too reckless. Even so, I think they are still nice people. Although they suggested some “strange” things, after I turned them down, they still behaved well, did not force me, or kick me out of the house.
So far, I have been a lucky traveller. To be honest, a little bit of adventure while travelling makes the trip more exciting. The feeling of facing a challenge, overcoming your fears, and gaining new experiences on your own are priceless. Of course, pray that the god of luck is always with you!’

WANDERLUST TIPS

♦ Create an account
Visit www.couchsurfing.com or download the app for your smartphone to create an account using your email or Facebook account.Your profile is the first thing people will see about you. When you apply for accommodation, the host will certainly read your profile. So, do not leave your account blank or provide too little information. Everyone wants to meet someone interesting. Write an introduction about yourself. The available hints will help you complete this easily.
If you want to get more reviews from other members to gain more credibility and increase your chances of being chosen, let some people stay in your house or meet up with people travelling to Vietnam.
♦ Host selection
It’s recommended to read the profile carefully, choose ones you find interesting and have many reviews. These are the only two things that help you “know a little bit” about them. In addition, most profiles will describe the space they provide to the surfer, usually the couch or a private room with a bed.
If you are female, choose a female host. However, many female hosts prefer to accept male offer for accommodation, so you may be rejected.
You can choose people with 70 to 100 reviews. But in my experience, do not expect much of them. Most of them do not answer. It is easy to understand, as they have dozens of people asking them, so they are very selective or maybe the place is full.
Those with around 20-30 reviews are the best option. The number of reviews is relative and the chance you receive a response is bigger.
In particular, new members are often very enthusiastic and the chance you are accepted is 80-90%. However, they may only have 3-5 reviews, which is quite risky. If you have no other choice and still want to try Couchsurfing then bravely choose them and pray for yourself.
♦ Send letters to the host
After reading their profile, write a letter with the specific check-in date, check-out date, and reason why you chose them. Be sure to customise the letters; no one likes a letter with the same content (even including the previous host’s name).
You should ask about 10-15 days in advance because their plans may change in one or two months.
♦ When in Home, do as the Romans do
Read about the cultural differences of the country or city you are going to visit to avoid taboos or being considered disrespectful.Talk politely about the things you should and should not do in their home, and if you want to use anything, ask for permission. Always believe in your intuition and presentiment.
If you feel any unusual signs, ask questions directly to the host (before the meeting) or leave immediately (if you have arrived). It is recommended to have a backup plan in case you cannot stay or leave the host home.
♦ Say goodbye
Couchsurfing requires that hosts do not ask for money. In fact, the goal is to meet people from different regions to exchange and learn about each other’s cultures, so they do not ask for “reciprocity”. But if you invite them to a cup of coffee, a meal, or give them a small gift from your country to show your gratitude, they will be happy to receive it.
Write a review about the host after the trip. Write down your true experiences, and express your gratitude if you have a good experience. Do not hesitate to raise your voice if there is a bad experience, and be sure to report a violation because the safety of other members will be based on your rating.

Le Diem | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Sunrise premium resort, Hoi An announces new senior appointments

Recently, Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa, Hoi An has announced the appointment of three key players to its executive team of professionals. All bring with them extensive experience in the hospitality industry and a proven record of success.
[rpi] MADAME MAE MONNET – DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

French born, Madame Monnet brings a wealth of culinary experience and a noteworthy education from Glion Institute of Higher Education as well as Paris Sorbonne University to the luxury resort. With experience working for top luxury hospitality brands, Mae’s management background has provided her with skills to lead the F&B team.

MR. CÉSAR COMBE – DIRECTOR OF CUISINE

A French national, Mr. César Combe has over 9 years of culinary experience managing the provision of fine dining for hotels, resorts and restaurant at companies such as Mélia, Intercontinental Resort and Spa… As the Director of Cuisine, Mr. César Combe will work hand in hand with the Vietnamese Executive Chef and bring international flair to our dining experiences with creativity. His expertise in food and hospitality industry makes him a best fit for the luxury resort.

MR. BRENT STRYDOM – TRAINING MANAGER

With over a decade of experience in the luxury hospitality arena, Geray has demonstrated his passion for developing talent as a training manager. Joining Sunrise Premium, he will be responsible for training programs for all staffs of the resort.

“Mae, César and Brent join us at an exciting time here Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa,” says Sven A.Saebel, General Manager. “Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa, Hoi An has an extremely young, dynamic & talented team. I believe the it is crucial in the current time to expose our local team to foreign managers, as it will help us to achieve the aim to train and develop our local team to remain as leader in Hoi An and benchmarking ourselves with international brands in Danang and which will bring our Sunrise family from good to great. I must say I’m more than happy to have all of them on board and form a vision for the future success of our resort.“

Sunrise Premium Resort&Spa, Hoi An
Tel: +84 (0235) 393 7777
Email: resa@sunrisehoian.vn
Website: www.sunrisehoian.vn

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

ITE HCMC 2017: Vietnam’s Premier Global Tourism

Vietnam’s most important and established travel event, the International Travel Expo, Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC), is excited to return for the 13th year from 7th to 9th September at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Centre (SECC).
[rpi]

The annual ITE HCMC is the key international tourism event in Vietnam, and the largest event of its kind in the Mekong subregion for both inbound and outbound markets. Recognised as Vietnam’s one and only National Tourism Event by the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism, it is also the only travel event endorsed by the Tourism Alliance of all five countries in the Mekong Region.
The first two days of the event are catered to trade professionals, and the third day to trade visitors as well as the public; special promotions, travel packages, stage activities and performances will especially enthrall the latter with wanderlust.

THE GLOBAL TOURISM INDUSTRY UNDER ONE ROOF

Following the success of last year’s edition, and the positive positioning of Vietnam as the latest tourism hotspot, the Organisers of ITE HCMC 2017 are expecting an overall increase of 20% in participation from last year. This year’s event will host a multitude of national pavilions, and current confirmed participation include those of Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand, with many more to be announced soon.
The confirmed exhibitors currently include airlines, hotels and resorts, tour companies, and travel representatives from countries like Australia, Cambodia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, UAE and Vietnam. Many travel companies will also be present at the event.

SEMINARS, INDUSTRY NETWORKING & BUSINESS EXCHANGE

ITE HCMC is more than just an exhibition; apart from an array of networking events, it will also host a series of high-powered seminars on topics relating to emerging travel and tourism, like tourism sustainability, travel technology, social media for tourism and hospitality, investment tourism development, and more.
Special business matching services, online pre-appointments, and buyerseller meetings will provide exhibitors greater exposure and buyers more opportunities to discover that special tourism boost they are searching for. More than 3,600 meetings were conducted between buyer and sellers last year, and the Organisers expect the number to grow 15% this year.

HOSTED BUYERS & MEDIA PROGRAMME

Organisers of the ITE HCMC will also invite and host at the event 300 international and regional travel buyers from 50 major markets like Australia, Cambodia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, UK, US and many others.
The Hosted Buyer Programme allows buyers, from leisure, corporate, MICE, luxury, and special interest travel companies to enjoy pre-show and post-show tours to explore Vietnam; make pre-appointment bookings with sellers online; engage in buyer-seller meetings and attend various networking functions. All hosted buyers are carefully selected and approved by an advisory board with the ITE HCMC Organising Committee.
Additionally, the Organisers will also invite and host 50 international media partners from prominent travel, lifestyle, tourism, and broadcast platforms, as well as award-winning travel bloggers and social media professionals. Some of the activities the media would be invited to include dinners, networking events, and also pre-show and post-show tours showcasing the beauty of Vietnam.
As part of their hosted programme, Hosted Buyers and Media will be treated to exclusive and unforgettable visits to some of Vietnam’s stunning provinces and sights. The itinerary includes: Can Gio mangrove forest, Can Tho, the biggest city in Mekong delta region, Da Lat city, Phu Yen seaside town, Phan Thiet seaside town

EXPLORE MORE OF VIETNAM & THE WORLD

The tourism sector will continue to be an important part of the Vietnam’s economic plan, with the country actively joining tourism promotion and co-operation activities abroad. ITE HCMC presents the best opportunities for buyers and exhibitors to jump on this rising tourism wave and bring their businesses to higher levels.
Mr Bui Ta Hoang Vu, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, says: “Last year’s event was a spectacular one with more than 26,000 trade and public visitors, and 3,633 meetings arranged between buyers and sellers. There was a diverse variety of travel destinations and options available to both trade professionals and the public.”
“We are certain this year will be no different, if not more rewarding. Vietnam is an emerging tourist haven with new destinations and attractions promoted each year, and Hosted Media and Hosted Buyers can expect to explore more of Vietnam through the pre-show and postshow tours. We look forward to introducing our traditional Vietnamese warmth and hospitality to our international friends and guests.”

BRINGING THE WORLD TO VIETNAM

Mr Jack Wei, General Manager of Informa Exhibitions and Co-Organiser of ITE HCMC, adds: “ITE HCMC’s stellar performance record throughout the decade is further strengthened by the success of the 2016 edition, and this has resulted in more exhibitors and buyers participating in this year’s event. My team and I are very excited to meet our new and old exhibitors, buyers and media friends, and we will extend all assistance and support to them.”
“In addition, Vietnam’s booming tourism industry is reaching even greater heights. According to an announcement by the United Nations World Tourism Organization that’s reported in a recent VietnamTourism.com article, Vietnam was ranked seventh in the list of the world’s top 20 fastest growing travel destinations. The country saw a 24.6% surge in the number of foreign visitors in 2016 compared to the previous year.”
“This is an extremely encouraging trend that we believe will be sustained, and ITE HCMC will be the bridge to bring world to Vietnam, and vice versa.”

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Insects on the dining table

For many of Vietnam’s generation born before the 80s, insect cuisine is the simple fresh food of childhood vibes flavored with unforgettable memories.

[rpi]

EAT INSECTS – CHALLENGE THE SENSES

Dishes made from insects always evoke in me a lot of intense childhood memories. In the past, from the beginning of April to September of the lunar calendar, when the rice was at the growing stage just about to enter the ripening phase, rural children in our countryside would prepare weapons to hunt grasshoppers. Greasy grasshoppers and locusts were brought home to be processed into a variety of dishes such as grilled or fried grasshoppers. After hunting grasshoppers, we continued to hunt crickets for cricket fighting or fried dishes and we also caught bee larvae to roast. The sweet taste of Northern cuisine featured in these fresh dishes was hard to resist.

Today, you can find countless insect dishes on the list of the world’s most … horrible dishes. In a conversation with us, Davy Blouzard, the manager of Bugs Café recommended to visitors as ‘a must-visit restaurant for insect cuisine if you come to Siem Reap, Cambodia’, laughed and shared various reactions of customers when they first enjoy tarantula tempura or salty cupcakes with crickets and worms: “It’s always a lot of fun to see the first reaction, that’s why I love my job! Our customers are culturally prepared to feel disgusted by insects, which creates an unavoidable tension when they do their best to get rid of an instinct they’ve had since they were born. It results in laughs, screaming, mutual support, and challenge… That is until they finally taste the food: they then realize that it’s absolutely neither horrible nor squishy but to the contrary as good as any other nicely prepared food. Everything becomes much easier at this point.“

Davy Blouzard’s sharing reminded me of the humorous reaction of a foreigner I witnessed trying to eat larvae coconut worms. The tall, bulky boy almost cried when he tried to put the fat wiggling larvae coconut worm into his mouth. After gathering all his courage to chew and swallow, he vowed never to try the dish again, although the taste was not bad.
Overcoming the apprehension or fright at the beginning, many foodies after closing their eyes, holding their breath, and turning off all senses to enjoy insect dishes have to admit humorously: silkworm tastes like roasted chestnuts, grasshoppers taste as shrimp and crickets smell like popcorn. The world of culinary dishes featuring insects is endless, you can eat fried scorpions but might not want wiggling larvae coconut worms. I for example am very interested in silkworm and grasshopper but cannot bring myself to try cockroach soup.

EAT INSECTS – SAVE THE WORLD

Recently, I read in the news that if humans turned to eating insects instead of trying to become superman, the earth might be saved. Accordingly, experts from The University of Edinburgh (Scotland) said that we just need to reduce half of the global meat consumption and switch to crickets or pupae; the amount of land needed for cattle breeding would be reduced to a third. In addition, large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions during cattle breeding season would also be minimized. And even if only a small part of mankind switched to eating insects, this planet would get a lot of benefits.

While we still do not know whether this kind of food will decide the survival of Earth, insects are widely predicted to be the future of the global food industry for their many practical benefits: they are nutritious, less harmful to the environment and most importantly they are delicious. Do you know that an insect contains more than 80% of protein, and also has fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals? Compared to their weight, insects contain more iron than beef. However, you have to select, prepare and cook insects properly, if not you run the danger of getting hurt, as insect poisoning is not rare.

When it comes to taste, things are still controversial, as it depends on the preference of each person. But for most people who have the courage to try insect dishes, it is definitely a new world. Just as I was addicted to my mother’s roasted chrysalis silkworm with lemon leaf, Jack Lowell, an American tourist, did not hide his excitement when enjoying deep-fried tarantula spider in Cambodia for one dollar”It looks hideous but it is really delicious, fragrant and fleshy. The spider’s body taste better than the legs. You should enjoy this with a beer,” he said. And Nguyen Tung, a reporter working in Hanoi after enjoying flying shrimp (roasted grasshopper) in a restaurant, said: “At first, when you are afraid of chewing it thoroughly, it tastes like crispy thin shrimp, but you get acquainted with it, it tastes like chicken or frog.”

Today, more than 2,000 species of insects are processed into daily food for more than 2 billion people across the planet. You can see them in all countries, continents, from traditional to modern dishes, from expensive to cheap cuisine. In Japan, insect sushi is a very popular traditional dish. Italy’s Sardinia Island is famous for its Casu Marzu cheese. Mopane worm (feeds primarily but not exclusively on mopane tree leaves) is particularly popular in many parts of Africa. In Mexico, you can even buy a plate of fried or roasted grasshoppers at sidewalk stalls or at the gate of a circus or cinema to snack while watching a film.

But, that is a story for the distant future. For now, if you had a bowl of insect ramen or a crispy fried centipede in front of you, would you try it?

Wanderlust Tips

Hanoia Boutique opaens in Ho Chi Minh City

The first boutique in Ho Chi Minh City belonging to high-end lacquer producer Hanoia is to officially launched on Monday 3rd July 2017 in Ao Dai House, 107 Dong Khoi, District 1.
[rpi]

Many Hanoia exquisite lacquerwares are presented here, including the collections of luxury and elegant home decors or fine and fashionable jewelry, which combine both contemporary inspirations and Vietnamese traditional craftsmanship. During the launching time, Hanoia boutique offers special gifts for the early buyers.

Hanoia is the first haute-lacquer house in Vietnam, and its products are recognized by many luxury fashion boutiques in the world. Established in 1997 in an old lacquer village in Binh Duong province, Hanoia remains the most miraculous marriage between Vietnamese lacquer and contemporary design. A group of European designers felt “in love” with colours, effects, matters and patterns which are reminiscences of past emotions. They decided to work with the most qualified craftsmen from the Vietnamese lacquer capital to revive a Vietnamese craft which risks being lost in oblivion. It is not just about using ancestral techniques, it is about crafting a unique experience in a process where quality is an obsession, where every detail counts, and ultimately where emotion is a constant’s quest.

Hanoia owns two workshops in the North and the South of Vietnam with 300 artisans from traditional lacquer village and talented designers from Europe. Pursuing the development philosophy based on the unlimited innovation of materials and effects, of colours and shapes, Hanoia continuously launches new and unique product lines.

Hanoia has quickly gained the affections from artists, the lacquer and fine arts enthusiasts, foreigners living in Hanoi and visitors from all over the world.

Add: Ao Dai House – 107 Đồng Khởi, Q.1, tp. Hồ Chí Minh
Tel: +84 28 3827 9383
Website: www.hanoia.com
Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/hanoialacquer

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Global Round of World Scholar’s Cup 2017

On 30th June and 1st July 2017, at the Closing Ceremony of Global Round of World Scholar’s Cup 2017, almost 10,000 silver and gold medals and 200 trophies were given to students participating to this Global Round in Hanoi.
[rpi]

More than 3,400 scholars from almost 40 countries from all over the world have participated in an extraordinary Global Round. The 2017 Global Round was held first time in Hanoi at the National Convention Centre on 26th June – 1st July 2017. This year, there were 324 registered Indonesian students for the Global Round in Hanoi on the total 3,400 registered scholars from nearly 40 countries. Indonesia is the 4th biggest contingent of all countries. 24 schools in Indonesia (such as: BINUS school, Mentari school, Sekolah Ciputra – Surabaya…) participated in and most of them come from Jakarta and Surabaya.

On 26th June 2017, at the Opening Ceremony for the Junior Division of the World Scholar’s Cup 2017 in the National Convention Centre in Hanoi, H.E Mr. Ibnu Hadi – Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia in Vietnam had a short motivation speech encouraging the Indonesian delegation and other students. He said that winning is not only the purpose to participate to this event, this is also a good opportunity for the young talented students to make new friends and learn about other cultures.

The cultural fair was organized by Indonesian students with the collaboration of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Hanoi providing the material and the facilities to promote Indonesia’s Culture to other participating countries and guest. On 30th June and 1st July, at the Closing Ceremony, almost 10,000 silvers, gold medals and 200 trophies were given to students participating to this Global Round in Hanoi. Indonesia schools have won many medals and trophies in different area of competition such as: First place in Scholar’s Challenge in both Arts and Literature, 4th place in Individual Collaborative writing, 2nd place in Team debate…
At the end, Nanyang Girls’ High School from Singapore won the 1st place in the Global Round of the World Scholar’s Cup 2017 in Hanoi, followed by China at 2nd place and Japan at 3rd place.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Travel like the locals

Each trip is not just a move in space. When you visit a new land, the most precious treasure that you can bring back is the experience, the emotions when your soul connected to the spirit of the land – not just the souvenirs or selfie pics.
[rpi]

TRAVEL AND LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

When you take beautiful photos, check-in at a “hot” destination, then immediately post it on social networks, it can make many people admire you or feel jealous. But there will be nothing left after the trip if you do not learn how to connect with local people, get acquainted with different cultures, learn about the way of life and habits of local people, and visit unique places not on the “tour map” full of tourists’ footprints everywhere.
Melissa Roy, an American woman admired by the backpacker community when she travelled to 109 countries at the age of 31, is a traveller who loves journeys with local experiences. Melissa Roy regularly uses Couchsurfing, a social network, to apply for homestays, in order to stay with the locals, learn their lifestyle and eat real local food. Although she does not stay in a country for long, she said she learns the most in the shortest amount of time.“Taking part in activities with the locals for three days is a fuller experience than staying for two weeks,” she said enthusiastically.

The travel website, BookYogaRetreats, has conducted a survey of over 300 people on travel trends of 2017. And the results have shown that the general trend of 2017 is: Travel to enrich the experience, broaden cultural knowledge and history, not just for taking a rest or sightseeing. About 32.9% of respondents said they travelled with the clear goal of learning a new skill. In particular, more than half of respondents are more interested in immersing themselves in the local culture, opting to blend in and experience the local way of life. The 2015 travel trend report from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) found that many visitors are finding that sightseeing is “a superficial understanding through cursory observation” and is not enough. They want to look for more authentic experiences and live like a local. Instead of just visiting popular tourist destinations, the trend of authentic holiday experiences makes visitors choose to visit far-flung countries which are rich in culture and traditions such as Peru, Cambodia and Vietnam, to learn about life, customs and history of remote villages, legendary rivers, or ancient architecture.

COLOURFUL EXPERIENCES

Sometimes you follow the dull old trails because there are no local friends by your side and the travel guide book in your hands shows you countless “destinations for visitors”. However, when you are more interested in immersing yourself in the local life, you do not have to go around and experience superficial sightseeing.
Instead of following the tour guides and visiting the typical landmarks in a closed car, you can walk around the streets, stop somewhere to talk to street vendors and bargain over the price of never-seen stuff. You can also try a dish with an incomprehensible name, visit the flea market instead of a famous crowded commercial centre, enjoy coffee in a small café instead of international brand-name coffee chain which we can find in any country, feel the pulse of life, experience unpredictable moments, and make more local friends on your trip.

While you will have unique experiences, unforeseen joys, you may sometimes experience some unexpected trouble, or observe the bad side of life. All of this will help you understand the destination you are visiting in the most honest way.

Moreover, making friends with the locals sometimes informs you of a list of never-before-seen locations, stalls with delicious delicious local delicacies that you cannot find on the Internet. Vu Thuy Linh, a communicator as well as a travel enthusiast, has excitedly shared her unique experiences from a trip to Singapore: “I wanted to feel the breath of Singapore, so for five days on Lion Island, I lived like a Singaporean. I was at a homestay, asked locals where they go and had my own ‘made by me’ journey.

Thu Hoai | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Riding a motorbike around the world

Many people say the voyage is impossible and it is true that I have to go with my faith firm. When you believe in your ability and understand the limits of your motorbike, then you can conquer all challenges, whether it is a barren desert between Pakistan and Iran, a harsh European winter or the mighty Andes of South America. Just do not give up and travel carefully.
[rpi]

Hi Khoa, when did your passion for travelling start, especially riding yourself to conquer the destinations you choose?

Perhaps this passion began when I was a little boy, often studying the old world map my father hung in the corner. I often watched television, especially programs on travel and nature, at that time I wanted to travel to amazing places like those on the programmes, but that was impossible for me. Growing up, I started going to school, then went to work, and when I had money, I started going out there. I chose to go climbing for my first trip, then when I had a motorbike, I drove to places further afield. Then I travelled even further to many other provinces, regions, across Vietnam and then abroad.
On average, I go backpacking every two weeks. Until now, I have experienced approximately 200 trips. I have travelled to all provinces of Vietnam, Southeast Asia and some European countries like Germany and France. In Vietnam, I like Lam Dong the most. This land of Tay Nguyen has a lot of interesting and challenging off-roads and trekking roads, besides Lam Dong is located near Saigon where I live so it is convenient to get to. As for foreign countries, Thailand and Laos are my favourite, because they are located near Vietnam, have beautiful scenery, cheap travel costs and the locals are friendly.

From your 200 journeys, which memory is the most impressive and unforgettable to you?

It is very difficult to pick just one because I have countless memorable memories on my journeys. There are the times when I asked for free places to sleep at night in Cambodia and Laos or slept at the bus station on Cameron Plateau in Malaysia. Another time was when I got lost and suddenly discovered a beautiful and little known route – Ta Nang – Phan Dung through the three provinces Lam Dong, Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan. Or when my motorbike was seriously broken while I travelled alone in Thailand, but the local people supported me a lot even though we did not understand each other’s languages. Every memory is impressive and memorable to me, those experiences opened up other corners of the world full of the beauty of nature and humans that I had not known before.

You are starting your first days of the trip around the world by motorbike from 1st June. Where did you get this idea?

Travelling around the world is probably the dream of many people and I am not the exception. I have thought about this since the first days I went backpacking, but perhaps the idea became clearer and more realistic over the last two years. I started preparing everything with the highest determined spirit. These two years are the time I researched necessary papers, journeys of people who have gone before me and travel tips of each destination. From Lunar New Year to the end of May is when I solved all the matters that still needed attending to before the trip. Many people in the world have completed this journey, and in Southeast Asia, Singaporeans, Malaysians and Thais have done this. Some people even went with older vehicles and lacking necessary tools. So I think there is no reason for us Vietnamese people not to do this.

Can you share with Wanderlust Tips readers more detailed information about your journey?

I think the journey will last 600 to 700 days and I plan to divide it into 3 durations: 200 days to travel from Southeast Asia to Europe, 200 days in South America, and 200 days to explore Australia and getting back to Vietnam. If I have enough money and time I will go to Africa because I am not likely to have opportunity to travel like this for a second time. Actually, the total cost for the trip is huge, so I have called for some sponsorship and professional partnership.
As for the vehicle, I think any model of motorbike is fine. For such a long journey, I choose a Honda Wave RSX 2008, 97cc. It was my first motorbike, so I am attached to it and have a lot of memories associated with it, I believe that it will bring motivation and luck to me in the upcoming journey.

What difficulties did and will you face?

The first difficulty I encountered was that nobody in Vietnam has ever gone on this journey, so I can only ask international friends who have completed riding motorbikes around the world before. The next difficulty is about the papers, Vietnam is not in the association of countries issuing international driving licenses. Therefore I have to find information of countries that can issue this permit to Vietnamese citizen. For the other countries, I took all efforts to finish the procedures and convince them to issue the license for me. In addition, there are many risks such as traffic accidents on the road because I will have to move constantly, moreover I also must arrange visas, plan where and when to apply for my next visa, prepare for situations when my motorbike is broken on the road even before beginning the trip, I tried to repair as well as remodel it as much as possible. The weather is also important, as I plan to cross deserts in Iran and Pakistan in the heat of summer and encounter extremely cold winter weather in Europe. To overcome those challenges, I can only prepare necessary information along with good remedies, and finally I must play it by ear. I do not know what will happen but I will try my best to have the most complete journey.

Do your family and friends support you knowing about your daring plan?

Most of my family members and friends support me, especially my dad who encourages me a lot. However, my mother is quite nervous, that is understandable. I also explained to her in detail what I prepared for the trip, and I also bought insurance to protect myself, and my mother feels more reassured now.
After all, this is not a reckless or life-risking journey of a thoughtless and superficial young man who travels despite all risks, but the result of seven years of training, learning experiences and challenging personal limits constantly from easy to hard, from near to far, and from my own failure.

After finishing the journey, what is your next plan?
If my trip is successful, I will write a book about it. It will be a travel diary book for children and a photo book, all the money I get from that will be donated to poor children in Vietnam. I also intend to go to a farm in Dalat to rest a few months and then get back to work, and then get married.

Nowadays, backpacking trends, especially on motorbikes, are becoming popular, but there are risks. What advice would you give to those who love this type of travel?
To be safe, above all you have to be careful, you should practice to travel to close destinations and then go to further and more difficult places. Before the journey, it is recommended to find out about information thoroughly, bring necessary tools and protective equipment, if you go in a group, you must be disciplined and responsible.

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Impressive “Gifts” at Taiwan Excellence

On 30th June 2017, one of the biggest events of Taiwan Excellence Campaign 2017 – Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone has been implemented at Aeon Mall Long Bien. From 30th June to 2nd July, the event is momentous than ever with the participation of 66 top brands, as 2017 marks the 25th year of Taiwan Excellence’s establishment in international territories.
[rpi]

Taiwan Excellence is an international campaign sponsored by the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), with the purposes of introducing and promoting Taiwan Excellence Award-winning products to developing markets, including Vietnam. Granted with the achievements from the previous seven years, Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone 2017 will feature premium made-in-Taiwan products from 66 world-leading brands, spanning across three categories namely ICT, home appliances, health care and fitness. This is not only an annual gathering for Taiwanese businesses to connect with Vietnamese consumers, but also an opportunity for Vietnamese people to personally have a taste of advanced technologies from the 10th global ranking player in innovation.

For every year, Taiwan Excellence will prepare an exclusive theme for its annual campaign in Vietnam in general and Taiwan Excellence Experiencing Zone in particular. Regarding that, Mr. Richard R. C. Shih, Representative, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Vietnam remarks: “Thanks to the encouragement and favor of Vietnamese consumers, Taiwan Excellence has embarked the 8^th year of operation in the country. This year, we wish to highlight the distinctive characteristics of Taiwan Excellence Award-winning products – which are impressive in every aspect (R&D, design, quality, marketing and manufacturing), yet so friendly and useful for Vietnamese consumers to choose as gifts for themselves or their loved ones. This idea has inspired us to create the umbrella theme for the 2017 campaign: Taiwan Excellence – The gifts that always impress you”.

Attending the event, apart from the chance to explore and experience innovative Taiwanese products, visitors can participate in the impressive interactive introduction sessions, a series of entertainment and interaction activities and performances from Brand Ambassador Minh Hang, with attractive prizes from the organizers.
There are many impressive “gifts” for wide range of visitors. For photo-holics, it is HTC U11 – the newest flagship that brings you 3D liquid glass surface, vivid new colors that transforms light with every movement you make and DxOmark 90 rate – highest ever rating for a smartphone camera and more.

Tech lovers will have chances to admire “The ASUS Designo Curve Monitor” – the largest curve screen LED TV in the world with VA (vertical alignment) technology. And if you are sport enthusiasts, you can experience “JOHNSON Treadmill 8.1T” which not only brings you a healthy and active lifestyle but also allows you to experience the immersive interactivity and breathtaking footage of Virtual Active on your home television set with the Passport system. Especially, in Excellence Experiencing Zone, travelers will see “The DrivePro™ 50 Car Video Recorder” in extremely compact size with built-in G-Sensor that detects the impact and instantly trigger emergency recording mode.

For the upcoming event, Taiwan Excellence will be showcased in Taiwan Expo at Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (799 Nguyen Van Linh, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City) from July 26th to 28th, 2017.