Although Benaras lies neatly in a quieter street in town, the restaurant is almost always packed with such a diverse array of customers in the peak hours of the night. Benaras offers a wide range of Northern Indian dishes with an emphasis on homeliness, health, and authenticity.

Playing with your food isn’t a crime

What instantly stood out amongst the vast sea of dishes on the menu was the street food section. My favorite was Gol Gappe (or Panipuri). It was not so much a dish but more like an exciting ride in the amusement park. Each crunchy mouthful was a unique experience, from the earthy minty goodness to the sweet cooling chutney, you could taste it all.  A close second would be Puri bhaji which was on a slightly heartier side. Despite the distinctness of each dish, both featured similar staples such as potatoes, in which case, trying one out at a time might enhance your experience.

Tasting fireworks

Since all meals are made fresh to order, they take a good 20 minutes to make. While waiting, I got to enjoy what sounded like Hindi pop intertwined with good ol’ Rock, the likes of One Last Breath and The Final Countdown. It was surprising at first but I quickly eased to the vibrant beats. The rather intriguing song selection actually amplified the experience for me when I found myself fervently nodding to the Cranberries’s Zombies while relishing a perfect bite of curry-wrapped naan. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, meshing and melting into one another. As a garlic lover, I might be biased, but the Garlic naan was an absolute treat– it was garlicky, stretchy, yet somehow still had a bite to it. The Mutton was cooked till tender and filled with flavors, while the curry itself was creamy and hot with spices, as soothing as a hug on rainy days. 

Fresh for the best

Accustomed to the myriad sauces on the Indian dining table, I admit to having had a fleeting moment of disappointment when they offered me only two kinds: tamarind and mint. Upon dipping my gooey cheese naan into the sauces, I began to savor them both and figured I might not miss the variety after all. The two iconic chutneys were enough to satisfy my taste buds due to their unbelievable freshness. Benaras’s mint sauce was the best I had ever tasted. It was jam-packed with flavors and felt fresh like a morning breeze. The tamarind sauce was nothing less – fresh with a tinge of luxury.

Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and Dahi (Indian yogurt) are made in the Benaras kitchen every morning, and it clearly pays off. I had Lassi, an Indian yogurt drink, and was again surprised by its freshness and how refreshing it was for a dairy-based beverage. It also complimented the taste of my spicy Prawn Masala. Overall, highly recommended. Many chicken dishes at Benaras also have the chicken marinated in yogurt, which gives it a subtle creamy element and a beautiful coat with seared marks that contain all the desirable zest. I had several kinds and enjoyed every one of them in many different ways. 

Delicious roots and the story behind it all

Ms. Nidi, the owner, shared that Benaras was opened with a mission: changing the perception of Indian food, which has started currying favor (pun intended) with Vietnamese people only recently. Contrary to popular misconception, Indian food is exceptionally healthful. It contains loads of vegetables, spices laden with benefits, retains more nutrition due to slow-cook method, and has little saturated fat compared to most dishes elsewhere. She takes a step further to making sure that Benaras delivers non-oily food from fresh quality ingredients as detailed above. I truly felt no guilt treating myself to a steamy hot earnest bowl of curry in days wanting comfort. 

Towards the end of our conversation, Ms. Nidi shared that her husband and daughter were her greatest critics. They would come infrequently and taste test, so rest assured, you truly are getting family-endorsed delights at Benaras. 

Bits & Pieces

• Location: 
  • 5A, Nguyen Sieu Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 
  • 28, Tran Ngoc Dien, Thao Dien Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
• Hours: 10 am – 12 am
• The cherry: 
  • District 1 branch offers “Royal Cuisine” that lets you dine how the Indian Royals would with customs, extravagant cutlery, and all.
  • District 2 branch has a garden and a rooftop bar. 
  • They are committed to being green and sustainable

*Photos by Nhi Luong & f.ahntasy

The post The exquisite world of Indian cuisine in Saigon appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

From the get-go, Bống came in with much aplomb, offering her chè to the Sharks, who only had praises in response. She then presented her business model in front of the illustrious panel and asked for 200 million vnd ($8,700) in exchange for 20% equity.

It all started when Bống got a taste of Chè Bưởi, a Southern dessert consists of beans, tapioca starch, and pomelo pulp with a souplike consistency, in a restaurant. So enraptured by the taste and smell that cup of chè bưởi, Bống was determined to bring this delicacy closer to the hearts of Northerners. And so, she set on learning how to cook chè bưởi herself. After 15 tries, Bống finally found the right recipe. With that, Bống opened her business.

Bống admitted that initially it was hard to establish a solid ground to launch the shop since so many food and beverages shops had existed already. Bống did not want hers to have to fade into the muted background of the crowded food scene, so she conceived the brand “Chè Bưởi Bống Nấu” (“Chè Bưởi made by Bống”), hoping that it would give her shop a nice ring.The brand can now be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube with thousands of followers.

Most customers of Chè Bưởi Bống nấu know about her via those social media applications, others through the good old word of mouth. All, however, can probably attest to how delicious her chè is. So delicious that one woman even drove a car to buy hundreds of cups of chè to feed her company. On average, Bống sells somewhere in the region of 100 cups per day.

On good days, a national holiday for example, Bống cooks and sells up to 400 cups of chè, amounting to 3.2 million vnd (roughly $140) in total. Along with the famous chè, Bống also sells books and toys. With this diverse business model, she quickly gained financial independence. Speaking with Little Big Shots, Bống bashfully shared that the pair of Converse she was wearing had been bought using her own money. She had also spent the money on a laptop and was looking into an Ipad Air 2 to help her learn English with more flexibility. However, ever the businesswoman, she insists on always putting 10% of her revenue into a long-term savings pocket. Then there is a pocket for necessities, another for education, one for financial freedom, and one for charity.

As school takes first precedence always, Bống runs her shop on Sundays only. Bống would wake up at 5 o’clock sharp in the morning to prepare and cook up some chè, her mom helping on the side. The profits, though, are split in a 51-49 ratio. The slightly larger portion goes to our young boss. But this is not Bống’s ultimate vision; she wants to expand the business, to go national hence her participation in Shark Tank.

As it turned out, her offer — 200 million vnd ($8,700)  for 20% equity — was taken up by Shark Thuỷ. Shark Thuỷ also sponsors 500 million vnd ($22,000) for Bống’s study in entrepreneurship and leadership in a span of 5 years. Besides, Bống will be the ambassador for Shark Thuỷ’s English language center — Apax Leaders. Shark Hưng, on the other hand, offered Bống 100 million vnd ($4,350) in return for 10% of her business. He shared that the Sharks’ investments in Bống were investments in a new form of education that is hands-on and applicable, thereby encouraging Bống to keep learning and doing what she does and loves to do.

Ms. Hạnh, Bống’s neighbor, commented:

“Bống has always been the star of the neighborhood for her immense talent and inexhaustible energy. Bống makes really delicious chè; I have some all the time.”

I hope, and am quite sure, that Bống will soon realize her dream of having a chain of shops across Vietnam. Then I too can have some of that sweet Bống – made Chè Bưởi.

The post Bống Chè Bưởi – A little girl with an entrepreneurial mindset appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

There is a myriad of Vietnamese sauces. Trying to tell which sauce is which among the vast variety is not much different from navigating a labyrinth. A few basics include shrimp paste, anchovy paste, and of course, the infamous fish sauce.

The fish sauce itself has spawned a considerable number of sauce variations, acting as the base. Each region has sprinkled its own flair into the standard fish sauce to pair it with the local specialties. The North likes its sauce rich and redolent of lemongrass and calamondin. The Southerners stick with homely ingredients like gingers, minced garlic, and chopped chilies. The Central Vietnam way of finessing fish sauce includes boiling it with shrimp and finishing up with as much chilly as conceivable. Meanwhile, fish sauce in West Vietnam is renowned for its godsent sweet and sour mix. Sometimes, Vietnamese people also have fun with all sorts of vegetables to spice things up. People from the South usually go with pickled carrots and daikons, while those from the North enjoy a good handful of sliced green papayas.

Contrary to popular belief, fish sauce is not a modern invention, but in fact, has made its mark for quite some time. According to the Complete Annals of Đại Việt, Vietnamese people had already known how to produce and incorporate fish sauce into their nutritious diet by 997 at the latest. A historical record from the Nguyen Dynasty even noted fish sauce as a replacement for usual capitation tax to the imperial court. This goes to show what a highly-regarded delicacy it was and the role it played and still does until this day, in social functions.

It is hardly a Vietnamese dining table without a small bowl of fish sauce in the center. There are multiple courses and individual portions but all use that exact same fish sauce. In a way, it is a measurement of one’s table mannerism. Worry not though, as long as you are courteous and do not spill the sauce all over the table, or worse, on another person, then the dining experience should be a fun and scrumptious one.

Admittedly, fish sauce has quite a pungent taste, not least to people who have not been familiar with it since birth. However, once acquainted with the sauce, few can resist its oddly comforting charm. Evidence: Each day, an average Vietnamese person consumes at least 10 drops of fish sauce. That is a lot.

The post Vietnamese Fish Sauce – It stinks but tastes awesome appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

The youth of Saigon has blown a new breath of life to the old apartment blocks by turning the once residential areas for the working class retirees into today’s hot spots amongst teenagers. 

Saigon has the old apartment turned into meetup points or photo studios for studenInstagram, considering how aesthetically pleasing the decors of the shops are. Some take on a retro Indochine look, covering the room with old newspapers, radio sets, and typewriters; while others create a modern, minimalist atmosphere for their interiors. Each place is pretty in its own way.

Thanh Da Apartment Block in Saigon

A hallmark of these kinds of buildings are how lively they are. The neighborhoods feel real with local babies running about with their mothers, clothes filling up balconies, and vehicles – chiefly bicycles and motorbikes – parking along the hallway, things you can hardy find elsewhere.

It is, however, easy to understand why these buildings are not on the map or in the itinerary of most travel agencies. They are not exactly architectural masterpieces or historic landmarks, but they do ooze something uniquely Saigon, more precisely, the old Saigon that many still lament over with their timeless and heavily French-influenced walls and tiles. It is nice actually for these buildings to keep a low-profile so that they will be a cheeky little secret between the teens of Saigon, and of course, cool and hippie travelers like you are.

But what are secrets if not tragic.

In the near future, these buildings are to be demolished, razed to the ground, crushed to dust, 61 of them with their 7,200 households. Admittedly, some are barely habitable with their holes and molds and shaky staircases. Still, the fact remains that they bear in them stories, history, and the soul of Saigon, thus shall be expecting refurbishment efforts instead of death sentences and evacuation plans. The compensation offered is not even adequate for the local residents to comply, generating a lose-lose situation where no actions are taken and no lives are improved.

5 Best Cafe Apartment Blocks in Saigon – Saigon’s Hidden Gems

But the mass demolition day will come however long it might take. Until then, may we cherish these beautiful tragedies!

Cafe Apartment Block in Saigon

Some notable apartment blocks that you can pay a visit:

42 Nguyen Hue
14 Ton That Dam
26 Ly Tu Trong

To see more photos, check the open album below:
(Please use the left/right arrows to navigate in the files of the open album)

Words by Nhi Luong
Photos by Trieu Anh

The post Saigon Old Apartments – The Secret of Saigon appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

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Tandoor

Situated in the center of all Saigon activities (a 30-second walk to Nguyen Hue walking street), you can tell Tandoor is as pricey as it is fancy. In return, you can expect top-notch food, friendly service, beautiful space, and a satisfying experience. Upon entering, we were greeted with possibly the nicest doorman in existence, smile always plastered across his face complimenting an overall cheery attitude that pumped me up before the exciting meal. The place is medium-sized and just compact enough that we could smell all the herbs and spices before even settling in my seat. At night, the restaurant is candle-lit, and candles romanticize everything ten folds. The food range is respectable, and the food itself is remarkable. Even the iced tea was premium, adorned with some mint leaves. A meal for two would fall around 500,000vnd, which is relatively expensive (but totally worth it), so consider Tandoor for some special occasion or maybe a date with whom you want to impress.

Add: 39 Ngo Duc Ke Street, Dist 1
Tel:+84 8 3930 4839
Web: http://tandoorvietnam.com
Working hours: 10:30–14:30, 17:00–23:00

Baba’s Kitchen

It is not absurd to state that food at Baba’s Kitchen is as authentic as it can get, especially when chefs and staffs here are all Indians (they are also friendly and likable). The place is small but clean and well-kept. However, it’s almost always packed, hence a little crowded at times. A good spin on this is that the food must be worth all the trouble, and it is! Butter Chicken is a must try and has put Baba’s Kitchen on many people’s favorite list, so drop by Baba’s, the unofficial ambassador of Indian food and see if it will make an appearance on your favorite list too.

Add: 164 Bùi Viện, District 1
Tel: 028 3838 6661
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Babas-Kitchen-168661249876554/
Working hours: 11:00 - 22h30

Ashoka

Ashoka is a multinational franchise as its owner has long set his heart on promoting and establishing a stand for Indian cuisine among others. For what it is worth, Ashoka is not far from completing its mission if not already. Dishes here are a nice introduction to Indian food that will keep people intrigued and coming as the flavor, although still retains the essence of Indian food, is nicely reduced and adjusted to fit the majority’s taste.

Add: 17/10 Le Thanh Ton Ben Nghe, District 1
Tel: 028 3823 1372
Web: http://ashokavietnam.com/story.htm
Working hours: 11:00–14:00, 17:00–22:30

Ganesh

Ganesh Restaurants have sprawled across not only HCMC but also other cities of Vietnam like Nha Trang, Hue, Hoi An, etc. so it is safe to say Ganesh food is tested and approved. The franchise is named after Lord Ganesha who, according to Hindu tradition, is a God of wisdom, success and good luck.

Add: 38 Hai Ba Trung, District 1.
Tel: 08 38234785 - 0966 478 767
Web: http://www.ganesh.vn
Working hours: 11:00 AM – 02:30 PM / 17:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Mumtaz

Yet another charming little diner located in the long famous backpacker street Bui Vien, Mumtaz is known for offering authentic Indian food at a bargain price. With 100,000vnd more or less, you will get access to an extensive menu of no fewer than 150 dishes. We suggest you eat chicken samosa.

Add: 226 Bui Vien, District 1
Tel: +84 8 3837 1767
Working hours: 10:00–23:00

Namaste

Not quite known in the business but for those who do, Namaste is easily a favorite for its outstanding flavors. Many Indian businessmen I know have praised Namaste’s dishes for their striking and very much appreciated resemblance to those of their hometown.

Add: 189 Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
Tel: 028 6684 9786
Web: http://namasteindia.vn
Working hours: 10:30-23:00

Spice India

Spice India is a particular restaurant set right at the heart of Bui Vien so it is always activities-packed and fun. The diner is cozy and pleasingly decorated. Staffs are all Indians so rest assured that you are getting a real taste of Indian cuisine, creamy and spicy. A value for money!

Add: 1B Bui Vien, District 1
Tel: 028 6676 3784
Web: http://spiceindia.com.vn
Working hours: 10:00-23:00

READ MORE FOOD TRAVEL GUIDE IN SAIGON HERE

(Ranging from Vietnamese cuisine to International one)

The post 7 Indian Restaurants in Saigon to Spice Things Up appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

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Ru Cha Mangrove Forest

You are going to explore the uncanny Ru Cha in either a boat or a fishing ship. Throughout the excursion, there will be splendid views and a plethora of birds such as bitterns, herons, storks, owls,... Deep inside Ru Cha is a ferro-cement ship which is the shrine of the Sea God. Local fishermen go here before every long trip to the sea to pray for good luck and calm water.

Tam Giang-Cau Hai Lagoon

If you are going to Ru Cha, then you will have to also pay Tam Giang-Cau Hai Lagoon a visit: it is right nearby. With an area of 52km2, Tam Giang-Cau Hai is the largest lagoon in South East Asia. From here, you can take a ferry to get to Thai Duong Ha which is one of the oldest fishing villages in Vietnam, thus, rich in culture. Or you can travel to the end of Tam Giang and reach Thuan An town, famous for its range of seafood, from crabs, crawfish to squids, snails, all cheap, fresh, and delicious.   

Canh Duong Beach Camp

Exactly what the title says, it is a campsite along the beautiful beach of Canh Duong. Well preserved and not exposed to much human interference, Canh Duong hides its charm in the white, soft sand strip and clear, calm sea.  If you fancy a bit of exploration of the vast and mysterious ocean or simply want to have quality bonding time, drop by. A tent for two is rented for 100.000vnd/night, reasonable enough if you ask me.

Bach Ma National Park

40km from Hue capital lies a heaven on earth, ideal for trekking with 2147 types of plants,1493 types of animals, dense forests, and magnificent waterfalls. Not to mention from the pinnacle of Bach Ma, 1500m high, you’ll have the access to a complete view of Hue, misty and breathtaking. Bach Ma really is giving us a peak of the majesty of nature, so you cannot miss setting foot here when in Hue; it’s just not natural.

Chuon Lagoon

Nothing less than gorgeous is suited to describe Chuon Lagoon at sunsets. The view is grand yet the sense of serenity is always palpable in the air. Having a seafood feast while watching the transition of nature in the afternoon at Chuon Lagoon sure is an experience to remember.

Lap An Lagoon

Similar to Chuon Lagoon, there are few sights that can beat those at Lap An Lagoon when the sun sets or rises. What’s special about Lap An is its reputation for sea cucumbers, a type of echinoderms like starfish and sea urchins that are rich in protein and extremely good for health. If you want to finally see sea cucumbers with your own eyes all the while grasping the splendor of nature, look no further.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery

40km South to the center of Hue, you will find Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery protruding beyond a peaceful Truoi Lake in the expanse of ranges of mountains. Whether you have a heart for religions or not, a trip here is always worth it thanks to its ethereal surroundings.

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

Paper Flower has existed for more than 300 years in Vietnamese history of occupations, and Thanh Tien is the most famous trade village around. Here, you are in for a feast of handcrafted flowers, mostly lotuses, in a multitude of vibrant colors. You can even make some yourself under the guidance of the local artisans if you feel up to it.

An Hien Garden House

Originally the capital of a Nguyen Dynasty’s Princess in the 19th century, An Hien is the embodiment of architecture then. It is a perfect blend of humans and nature with sophisticated carved works and ancient trees. Besides the architectural values, An Hien is also home to an extensive collection of exotic fruits and flowers across Vietnam such as durians, jackfruits, mangosteens, pomelos,...

Adress: 58 Nguyễn Phúc Nguyên, Hương Long.

Vong Canh Hill

We will end this incredible list with Vong Canh Hill, standing on the top of which you will be able to view the whole cityscape. Huong river, Imperial tombs, Hon Chen temple all fit into one large scenic frame, and the sight is to die for.

The post 10 Stunning Secret Hue Places Most Tourists Don’t Know About appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Fairs

1. Nguyen Hue Flower Street
   Iconic and must see. Nguyen Hue Flower Street has long been a big part of Tet for the people of Saigon. Each year, the street is designed with a theme according to the 12 Zodiac Signs. This year, 2018, is the year of the dog. Even though the flower arrangements are extraordinary in their own rights, what makes the street special for me is the spirits. It is truly amazing to feel so much energy in one place.
   
   

   

   

   Date: 13-19/2
   Address: Nguyen Hue Street, District 1

2. Hội Hoa Xuân (Flower Festival)
   A confirmed smorgasbord of entertainment. There is a small game ground, lots of food vendors, various souvenir shops, a tea ceremony, a musical concert, and a huge flower competition going on. Avid gardeners and flower enthusiasts from across the country bring their proudest product here and make a total of over 4000 displays for your viewing pleasure. We have witnessed the appearance of weirdly shaped (and very much attractive) trees, or even a 2-century-old apricot blossom tree in the past years and cannot wait to see what 2018 has in store.

   

   Date: 10-21/2/2018
   Address: Trương Định, Bến Thành Ward, District 1

3. Chợ Hoa (Flower Markets)
   Should you wish more than just viewing, say, actually owning a vase or two of Vietnamese flowers, then come by one of these three venues to browse for yourself.

   

   Date: 8-15/2/2018
   Address:
   23/9 Park: 2 Phạm Ngũ Lão, District 1
   Gia Dinh Park: Ward 9, Phú Nhuận District
   Le Van Tam Park: Võ Thị Sáu, ĐaKao Ward, District 1

4. Phố Ông Đồ (Ong Do Street)
   Long ago, people traditionally sought distinguished scholars of the village (Ong Do) to ask for Thư Pháp. Thư Pháp is a Vietnamese take on calligraphy and what is typically written on it are Chinese characters of health, success, and luck, basically, the things you would wish to gain or retain in the new year. Now even though the practice is not as prevalent, Vietnamese still celebrate the tradition by organizing Ong Do Street where people can ask for good fortunes on paper just like old times.
   
   Video made by Khoi Nguyen

   

   

   Date: 10:00 – 22:00, from 02/02/2018 to 15/02/2018
   Address: Phạm Ngọc Thạch – Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 1

Pagodas

Vietnamese people believe that taking a trip to pagodas’ doors on the first few days of the new year will bring them good fortune for the 12 months ahead. But these spiritual sanctuaries are more than just platforms for people to pray for success and luck. They grant vísitors access to tranquil settings where people can wholeheartedly leave all the sufferings and sorrows behind and start entirely afresh. 

1. Chùa Giác Lâm (Giac Lam Pagoda)
   Established in 1744, Giac Lam Pagoda is widely considered to be the oldest pagoda around in Ho Chi Minh city. It is the very exemplar of Southern temple architecture with 3 adjoining house blocks following the Tam (which means 3) style.

   

   Address: 565 Lạc Long Quân, Ward 10, Tân Bình District
   Phone: 028 3865 3933

2. Chùa Vĩnh Nghiêm (Vinh Nghiem Pagoda)
   If Giac Lam is the paragon of Southern architecture, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda brings the North architectural essence to you. Here once raged the final battle of national hero Nguyen Van Troi in 1965. Hence, a temple dedicated to Nguyen Van Troi can be reached right across the street.
   
   At the height of 14m, with 7 floors, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda has been recorded the highest stupa in Vietnam. Meticulously carved onto the walls of this stupa are ornate designs and patterns that are uniquely Ly-Tran Dynasties.
   
   

   

   Address: 339 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Ward 14, District 3
   Phone: 028 3848 3153

3. Chùa Xá Lợi (Xa Loi Pagoda)
   Xa Loi Pagoda is the first in the city to be built on the base of modern architecture: presbytery upstairs, amphitheater downstairs. It boasts the highest Bell Tower in the country with seven floors and 32 meters in height that was inaugurated in 1961. On the top floor hangs The Great Bell, weighed 2 tons, the sound of which even reverberates its way to Vietnamese art and literature. It was most prominently featured in “Tiếng chuông chùa Xá Lợi” (roughly translated to The sound of Xa Loi Pagoda’s Bell) written by Vien Chau.

   

   
   

   

   Address: 89B Bà Huyện Thanh Quan, Ward 7, District 3
   Phone: 028 3930 7605

New Year Fireworks

And of course, how could we end this list without mentioning the only right thing to do when the clock ticks 12, firework-gazing. Start the new year in style right at your home or for a more direct view and electric atmosphere, move to the center, somewhere near Saigon River and Nguyen Hue street. However, if you do, watch out for your belongings and beware the heavy traffic. The firework display will start at 0h and ends 15 minutes on the 16th of February this year.

The post Top Places to Celebrate Tet Holiday in Saigon appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

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1. Sinh Folk Painting Village

Originally, Sinh paintings are for worshipping purposes, exemplifying ancient Vietnamese philosophies in the face of the mysterious and holy nature. Now, although still retaining a very distinct charm, Sinh paintings cover more everyday aspects of life such as families, jobs, landscapes, etc.

2. Copper Casting Village

The Nguyen Dynasty witnessed the pinnacle of copper casting. You see those impressive bronze artifacts in Nguyen mausoleums, Thien Mu Pagoda, or Imperial City? Well, chances are that the great great grandfathers of the artisans you are to meet in this village built them. It would be really a shame if you do not pay the quintessence of a glorious era, so full of culture and history, worth a visit in Hue.

Address: Kiệt 317 Bùi Thị Xuân, Đúc Ward, Thừa Thiên Huế Province

3. Phuoc Tich Pottery Village

Phuoc Tich not only maintains the tradition of making pottery, but it also boasts a view scenic and serene like those paintings of a charming little town with a bright blue sky, a winding river, and huge old trees. In fact, there is a 700-year-old pottery standing right at the entrance of the village. A little further into the town lies a house displaying a handful of pottery pieces like a museum almost. Nearby is a shop where you can browse an extensive collection of jars, vases, and all other household objects.

4. Ke Mon Jewelry Village

Intricate patterns and sophisticated designs with subtle carvings here and there, Ke Mon pieces of jewelry give off major royalty vibes, so be ready to loosen the purse string. If anything, know that you are in the good hands of skilled craftsmen with wonderful tastes.

5. Chuon Village

Chuon Village has a reputation for being the cradle of distinguished scholars since the beginning of time. With vast knowledge and beautiful handwriting, Chuon’s most celebrated persons started making “ Liễn”, which can be seen as a Vietnamese taking on calligraphy, every Tet (Vietnamese New Year). What’s written on Liễn usually reflects people’s wishes for health, luck, and wealth at the start of a new year.

6. Bao La Knitting Village

Bao La produces household appliances all made from bamboos, which are widely considered to be the symbol of Vietnamese people. Bao La offers not only basics such as baskets, beds, drainers, and Vietnamese hats (Nón lá) but also decorative products like lanterns and vases. Bao La Village is definitely your go-to place if you want to take some kind of souvenir home.

Address: Bao La, Quảng Phú Commune, Quảng Điền Town, Thừa Thiên Huế Province

7. My Xuyen Wood Carving Village

My Xuyen wood carvings are held in high esteem across the country, having been awarded several medals and certificates. From mythical animals like dragons, phoenixes to war heroes, artisans here know how to breathe life into what seems to be inanimate objects.

Address: 110 Điện Biên Phủ, Trường An Ward, Phong Hoà Commune, Phong Điền Town, Thừa Thiên Huế Province

8. Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

A century ago, every December, Thanh Tien, a normal farming region, spices up its community with the mass making of paper flowers as decorations preparatory to Tet Holiday. The production of such flowers is now all year round to maintain one of the country’s oldest traditions. It should be noted that at a length of a few meters, the handmade lotuses look remarkably vivid and real. Should you wish to make a bouquet yourself, the local craftsmen are there to help.

Address: Phú Mậu Commune, Phú Vang Town, Thừa Thiên Huế Province

The post Hue’s 8 Most Traditional Handicraft Villages appeared first on Maze Vietnam.