Send your inquiry or any questions to Email: mazevietnam.info@gmail.com
or Message Facebook us: facebook.com/mazevietnam (24/7 Available)

*The tour below is group-joining tour. If you wish to book a private tour instead, please send your inquiry to us. 

UPDATES:

• Tour name update: 1 Day Discovery Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park
• Route Update: 30 minute kayak in Son river

Duration: 1 Day; Daily Tour

Adventure Level: Easy 

(basic trekking experience required) 

Availability: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (from February to the end of August) 

Group Size:Maximum 12 pax

Minimum Age:  12 years old (for active guests)  

Tour Starts: 07:00AM – 07:30AM from any local hotel in Phong Nha 

Tour Ends: 4:30PM – 5:00PM at any local hotel in Phong Nha 

This is the perfect itinerary for everyone who is looking for an easy and enjoyable trek to the remote jungle & cave of Vietnam. The journey is suitable for family adventure with children and offers an outstanding outdoor trekking experience.

Hang Nuoc Nut was first officially explored in 2003. With the length of 2.2 km the cave is a part of Phong Nha Cave System and hydro–logically linked with Hang Va and Hang Son Doong in the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, the World Natural Heritage Site.  This is a 2-million-year-old river cave which you can explore the majority of the cave by walking, wading. From February to April every year, you can also enjoy the freshness with some short swimming opportunities inside the cave. Nuoc Nut Cave 1-Day Discovery promises to bring to you unique and unforgettable moments in the legendary cave & jungle of Phong Nha! 

 ITINERARY

Phong Nha – Hang Nuoc Nut – Phong Nha 

The tour bus will pick you up at your hotel in Phong Nha at around 8:00AM to 8:30 AM on the departure date before heading to Oxalis Adventure headquarters located right next to Son River. You then will collect your equipment; attend the safety briefing & sign on the Release Form before getting back on the bus at 9:30AM for another 30-minute drive deeper to the National Park to the drop-off point. 

From the trailhead, the team will get off the bus and start trekking through the jungle. You will spend about an hour to trek through Lang Va valley, learn about the biodiversity of flora and fauna in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park before stopping by the Nuoc Nut Cave entrance to have a short break and picnic lunch. A mouth-watering jungle-styled lunch has been prepared for everyone by porter team.  

Back to the journey at around 12:30PM to travel deeper into the cave, you will meet a small entrance opening up to a much larger cave inside. Everyone will be asked to put on your Petzl helmets and Hope Technology 1500 lumen head lamps before proceeding deeper into the cave. Once inside the low opening, the cave enlarges dramatically and there will be many of excellent photographic opportunities. This is a wonderful chance for you and the team to witness the marvelous formations, enormous passage with underground river. During this time, if you’re lucky enough, a natural sunbeam will be seen around this area. After spending about 3 hours to exploring Nuoc Nut Cave, you’ll finish the day trekking back through the jungle to the pick-up point before getting on the bus head back to Oxalis Headquarters. Depart Oxalis at 4:30PM and you will be dropped at your hotel upon your request

We will provide you with the following: 

• Caving & safety gear: caving helmet, caving headlight, gloves and life–vests. 
• Basic canvas trekking boots (only if you do not have your own pair) sizes 36 – 46 

• Meals: picnic lunch  
• Professional English-speaking tour guide and guide safety assistant 
• Porter team to carry all camping gear and prepare meals 
• Shared dry box for phones and small cameras (limited availability for larger cameras) 
• Water filter and purifier (used only by guide and porters) 

• First Aid Kit and Medical Rescue Equipment (application by guides and porters only) 

Please also bring with you the following: 

• 1 long (easy to dry) pants and 1 long sleeved shirt to wear during the trek (quick dry) 
• 1 pair of trekking boots/shoes – difficult terrain, good footwear necessary 
• 1 change of clothes for after the tour 

• 1 pair of calf-length densely woven socks (not ankle socks!) 
• Personal items: mosquito repellent, sunglasses, hat, camera 

Price: USD 70/ pax

 Send your inquiry or any questions to Email: mazevietnam.info@gmail.com
or Message Facebook us: facebook.com/mazevietnam (24/7 Available)

*Photos provided by the Tour Operator

The post Explore the Natural World – Nuoc Nut Cave Discovery Tours appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Stunning caves are not just part of some fairy-tale world or horror movie. They can be found in the Central of Vietnam, an incredible and fantastic region riddled with hundreds of spectacular cave systems. Phong Nha Cave is one of the most captivating places to visit in Vietnam, surrounded by imposing limestone mountains, ancient jungle forests, and traditional villages that straddle the impressive waters of the Son River. Here are the top daily Phong Nha tours * operated by our partner – The Di Di Thoi & Oxalis Experience – The one and only exclusive adventure tour operator in Vietnam. The tour guides are internationally qualified and granted the membership of the British Cave Research Association (UK), and the cave experts are members of the British Cave Research Association. Don’t let fear and worry steal your joy Let’s check out our tours and book us now!

Send your inquiry or any questions to Email: mazevietnam.info@gmail.com
or Message Facebook us: facebook.com/mazevietnam (24/7 Available)

*Photos provided by Tour operator

Group-joining Tours

Phong Nha National Park Tour 1 Day

Code J-NB1

Our Phong Nha National Park tour starts at the semi-wild enclose where you’ll learn about the critically endangered Ha Tinh Langurs. You’ll enjoy an easy walk around the enclosure and if you’re lucky the ranger will point out a family of these incredibly rare mammals for you.

A short drive along Victory Road 20 into the national park will have you winding through jaw-dropping mountains covered with endless wild banana trees towards 8 Ladies Cave, the second highlight for the day. Here you will learn a little more about the Vietnam/American War and its impact on the area, and visit a historically significant temple that honors the soldiers who lost their lives when a cave collapsed where they were taking shelter from bombings.

We press on through the park to the absolute highlight for visitors, Paradise Cave, or as locals call it Hang Thiên Đường, a 31 km cave discovered in 2005. Your guide will give you a fresh perspective of the cave as you wander its network of walk-ways and impressive cave formations, highlighted by moody lighting. All National Park tours are definitely not the same as our guide will ensure your experience is beyond exceptional visiting this popular destination.

Chay Lap village is next on the agenda, where you’ll have a chance to relax and enjoy a delicious lunch by the banks of the river at Chay Lap Riverside. Catch some rays on our awesome deck chairs or take a quick refreshing swim, before setting out on the final leg of the journey, a bike ride to reach Tram Village. Tram village is so close to bustling little Phong Nha but still a world away. You’ll have a chance to wander through the village with your guide learning even more about the local area. This visit to the village provides a cultural perspective to this classic tour of Phong Nha. From Tram village, you will cycle back to Phong Nha and end the tour at Oxalis office..

Any of you stay at Farmstay or Hotel far away from Phong Nha will be transported back to your  accommodation, or if you stay in town you can take a leisurely walk back to your hotel.

DETAILED ITINERARY

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Professional English Tour Guide, Pick up from Accommodation and comfortable transportation around the park, Paradise Cave Entrance Ticket (250,000 VND), BBQ Lunch, Entrance to Chay Lap Riverside, Guided Village Walk, Water.

Tour excludes personal expenses and additional drinks or beers.

WHAT TO BRING

Comfortable clothes and shoes, Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bug spray, Camera or phone for picture, Rain Poncho, Swimming suite (optional).

PRICE

USD 65/ Pax

Phong Nha Villages Experience By Boat & Bike 1 Day

Code J-PB1

Phong Nha is surrounded by a collection of unique and interesting local villages, which specialize in a variety of crafts and local delicacies. The local people, who rely on the Son River for most of their daily activities, are amongst the most friendly and hospitable you will meet on your travels through Vietnam.  Our Phong Nha Villages Experience by Boat and Bike showcases this unique side of Phong Nha, one that exposes the rich diversity of life beyond the caves. 

• Group Tour Size: Max 15 pax
• Daily Departure
• No Minimum Age

Our tour starts with an early morning visit to Xuan Son market, where you’ll have a close encounter with the towns morning activities. Then get on board and after a short boat trip you will arrive at Xuan Tien Village, where you will learn about local fish farming practices, including the Black Carp and special eel from Phong Nha.

Continue cruising down the river to the very pleasant Gia Tinh Village, where guests will alight from the boat and have a chance to wander through the village with their guide, visiting a craft house where the locals make handmade rattan products. Here the local will show you how to make a product from rattan and you can put your craftiness to test.

You’ll then get back to the boat and float toward Gia Hung village. Here you will have a chance to learn about one of the most impressive churches of the region, if not the country, with its unique local wooden architecture. Then after a short walk, you will get to a local house where they make different types of rice cake. You will have a chance to try making it for yourselves to experience first hand the skills needed to produce hundreds of rice cake per day. You can buy some and bring back on the boat as snack.

Then a delicious lunch will be served on the boat to help you rest and recharge for the next portion of the tour. Our boat will take you back to Lien Trach where you will have some times for swimming. It must be hot after a day of walking around. This is your chance to relax in the cool water of Son River.

You will now head down to Ha Mon boat station then start the afternoon with your bicycles – cycling through very rural farming villages, where buffaloes will compete with laughing children to grab your attention!

This tour is perfect for those wanting to experience local life with a professional local guide – you will not be disappointed!

DETAILED ITINERARY

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Professional English Tour Guide, 3 – 4 Hour River Cruise, Village Walk, 2 – 3 hour Guided Cycling, Lunch, Water.

Tour excludes personal expenses and additional drinks or beers.

WHAT TO BRING

Comfortable clothes and shoes, Sun scream, hat, sunglasses and bug spray, Camera or phone for picture, Rain Poncho.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

USD 60/ pax

Phong Nha Sunset Cruise & Village BBQ Experience

Code J-SB1

Phong Nha is a beautiful village nestled amongst majestic limestone mountains formed over millions of years and the delightful Son River. The village of Phong Nha has developed considerably over recent years due to the growing number of intrepid tourists visiting the impressive caves. In addition to the caves, there are an equal number of beautiful villages scattered throughout the area, that showcase local life in a way still reminiscent of times past.  

• Group Tour Size: Max 12 pax
• Daily Departure
• No Minimum Age

Our Phong Nha Sunset Cruise will take guests up river past these quaint villages, where locals can be seen going about their daily activities on the riverside. The cruise will continue winding down river past farmland where you’ll no doubt see buffalos grazing, and children running along the river banks.  You will enjoy some light snacks and a cold drink as you soak up the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and listen to some interesting local stories by your professional tour guide.

Upon arriving at Chay Lap Riverside, you will have an hour to kick-back and enjoy the tranquil setting amongst the bamboo and beside a gorgeous stretch of the river, whilst enjoying another cold drink, and if you wish, you may order a meal from our delicious BBQ, or just chill out with some good music and stories by your tour guide.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a taste of local life with plenty of time to relax, and still receive an inspiring experience with a professional guide. It’s our short and sweet option that makes for the perfect add-on to any caving adventure in Phong Nha.

DETAILED ITINERARY

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Professional English Tour Guide, Pick up from Phong Nha by Boat, Finger Foods, Drinks. Tour excludes personal expenses and additional drinks or beers or dinner.

WHAT TO BRING

Comfortable clothes and shoes, Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bug spray, Camera or phone for picture, additional change of clothes for swimming.

PRICE

USD 18/ Pax

Private Tours

For any private tour inquiry, please contact us via Email/Facebook

Send your inquiry or any questions to Email: mazevietnam.info@gmail.com
or Message Facebook us: facebook.com/mazevietnam (24/7 Available)

All private tours have to be booked for at least 2 pax. The price ranges according to the number of pax in private tours. Please find our suggested private tours with different itineraries and activities we organize as follows

Code P-NP1 Phong Nha National Park 1 Day

Code P-TK1 Remote Villages Kayak Adventure 1 Day (16 Minimum age required)

Code P-NK1 Ngon Rao Remote River Kayak Adventure Half Day (16 Minimum age required)

Code P-PK1 Phong Nha Village Kayak Aventure 3 Hour Tour

Code P-PC1 Phong Nha Bike Adventure Half day (16 Minimum age required)

Code P-BC1 Phong Lai & Phong Nha Bike Adventure Full day

Code P-BW1 Botanic Garden Walking Tour 4 Hour Tour

The post Phong Nha National Park and Paradise Cave Tours appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

View All Content

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.

Are you done with exploring all the nooks and crannies of Hanoia3n food? Or have you had enough of partying in Saigon and are looking for lesser-known, off-the-beaten-track gems of Vietnamese cuisine? If yes, then this guide might be the answer you are looking for! Hold on tight as we’re about to venture through Danang (Da Nang) – the place to be!

View All Content

Bún Mắm Vân

Walking into Hải Châu district’s K23 alleyway, one can hardly not catch sight of the bustling home business seven blocks away; that’s Vân’s – our to-go place for Bún Mắm when traveling in Danang! Priding itself on fantastic Bún Mắm Nêm (a Danang twist on the tradition Bún Mắm), Trứng Cút Lộn xào me stir-fried balut with tamarind, and affordable prices, Vân’s has earned its own special spot in the hearts of thousands of Danang youths throughout generations. For any diehard fan of Vietnamese cuisine – especially Bún Mắm – Vân’s is never to be missed!

Address: K23/14 Trần Kế Xương, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 7:00AM – 22:00PM
Price range: 20.000 – 30.000VND

https://www.mazevietnam.com/2016/10/19/what-and-where-to-eat-in-da-nang/

Cây Khế

There is one dish that can hardly be found anywhere but in Danang; that is Gỏi Cá Nam Ô (Nam O fish salad). And there is hardly any eatery that offers a more scrumptious Nam O salad than our editor’s choice – Cây Khế (Starfruit). Unlike Vân’s which only serves two dishes, Cây Khế is much more diverse in its range of food, consisting of everything from crispy French fries to savory fried rice with seafood, and to the region-renowned fish salad. With the monopoly on Gỏi Cá Nam Ô, Cây Khế welcomes large numbers of tourists every day, so booking a table in advance is highly advised. But once you’re seated, be prepared to go on a rollercoaster of flavors as each item on the menu can pack a powerful punch!

Address: 44 Lê Thanh Nghị, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 10:00AM – 21:00PM
Price range: 45.000 – 90.000VND

https://www.mazevietnam.com/2016/10/25/nightlife-in-da-nang/

Bánh Canh ‘Chờ’

Living up to the title of street food, Bánh Canh ‘Chờ’ (Banh Canh ‘Wait’) is truly a hidden gem of Danang culinary scene in that the place doesn’t have a tangible building but rather, operates completely in the open air. In fact, Bánh Canh ‘Chờ’ is not the eatery’s real name either; nobody knows what the place was originally called, but most customers go with the name nonetheless as it comically represents a familiar scene – lines and lines of customer queueing up for those mouth-watering bowls of Bánh Canh. With one single iconic dish and a very budget-friendly price of 8.000VND (as a matter of fact, when asked why the place opted for such a low price, the owner lady cheerfully told us, “Actually, we have raised the price many times in the past; every time we did, the price went up by VND 1K!”), Bánh Canh Chờ’s 15-minute queues are not only worth it, but definitely a bargain for any tourist short on money after a whole day of shopping!

Address: under Thuận Phước Bridge, Sơn Trà district
Opening hours: 15:00PM – 22:00PM (most crowded at 17:00PM)
Price: 8.000VND

Bráp

Have you ever returned to your room after a long day of fun and excitement in Danang, feeling something is falling short and the night’s still too young for an 8-hour sleep? Well then rest assured because the fun is far from over in nighttime Danang with Bráp! With a diverse menu ranging from Bánh Tráng Nướng (crispy rice paper/Vietnamese pizza) to Nem Chua Quãng Ngãi (Quang Ngai fermented meat roll), to even fromage-coated honey-flavored roasted chicken, Bráp offers an alternative for night-life party animals who refuse to settle down at just 4:30 PM!

Address: 33 Cô Giang, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 16:30 PM – 22:00PM
Price range: 10.000 – 30.000VND

https://www.mazevietnam.com/2016/10/19/where-to-visit-in-da-nang/

Cồn Market Food Court

When talking about Danang, one cannot exempt Marketplace Food Courts – the melting pot of different varieties of food in the city. At Cồn Market, you are bound to find all sorts of food – all the ones above, and a lot more dishes such as Vietnamese pancakes, sea snails, rice paper salad, etc. Moreover, as a marketplace, Chợ Cồn also offers a wide range of souvenirs - from dried delicacies to clothing to jewelry – so that you can bring home a piece of this beloved Danang and share it with family, friends, and many other!

Address: Ông Ích Kiêm – Hùng Vương intersection, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 16:00PM – 19:00PM
Price range: 20.000 – 50.000VND

Bắc Mỹ An Market Food Court

Marketplace Food Courts can be quite unforgiving to the low-budget tourist because, without proper planning, one can easily be drawn into all the stalls and wonders of the Market. However, even in extreme cases of shortage of money, there is a solution! Enter Bắc Mỹ An Market. With a similar range of foods as Cồn Market’s, Bắc Mỹ An Market’s Food Court draws in customers by offering a much lower price range – about half of Cồn Market’s prices. Being such a haven for low-budget travelers, Bắc Mỹ An Market has earned its place within many customers’ hearts, with some even considering it as the better counterpart of Cồn Market! Whether that is the case or not is up to you to find the answer!

Address: Bắc Mỹ An Market, Ngũ Hành Sơn district
Opening hours: 7:00AM – 19:00PM
Price range: 5.000 – 10.000VND

Tàu Hủ Xe Lam

Too much salt from food already? Try some of the best tofu of the region at Tàu Hủ Xe Lam! Here, everything is about that sweet bowl of tofu – the perfect dessert to cleanse your taste buds after a long culinary adventure. With over ten variations of tofu and some refreshing soya milk, the place is among Danang youths’ favorites when it comes to relaxing and eating something light after large meals. What’s more, Tàu Hủ Xe Lam’s interior decorations are so colorful and well-made that many customers linger on for hours even after they have finished, just to take photos and enjoy the views! So next time you’re coming, don’t forget to bring a camera!

Address: 176 Trần Phú, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 9:00AM – 22:00PM
Price range: 10.000 – 30.000VND

Vevy Milktea

Last on our list is the very essence of the Vietnamese youth that no region can do without – milk tea! Considered by many Danang milk tea ‘experts’ to have a distinct flavor – some even regard it as better than that of many large milk tea chain stores – Vevy Milk tea is the place to crash in at the end of every culinary journey! With a menu no shorter than that of the big names like Gongcha or Koi, Vevy has the upper hand in terms of prices. But from our experience at Vevy Milktea, we assure you that the quality is under no par compared to that of big companies! Next time you go on a food adventure, don’t forget to end on a sweet note at Vevy!

Address: 71-73 Phan Châu Trinh, Hải Châu district
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 22:30 PM
Prices: 13.000 – 23.000VND

Read our full Da Nang Travel Guide here

The post Da Nang Food Guide 2018: Top 8 New Local Food Destinations appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Hoi An has many attractions and it is probably divided into two areas to visit: Hoi An Ancient Town and Nearby area of Ancient Town. In this article, we will recommend you 12 top-rated attractions in Hoi An Ancient town. They are the most beautiful destinations worth visiting in the town.

View All Content

1. Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu)

Covered Bridge, also known as Japanese Covered Bridge or Lai Vien Bridge, was due to the legend that it was built in the early seventeenth century by Japanese people and was at least 6 times restored in 1653, 1763, 1817, 1865, 1915, 1917.

The Bridge has a unique roof and a rainbow-styled path in the middle. At the two sides, there are narrow hallways to make for displays or take a rest with seven wooden compartments crossing a small creek, which are textured and decorated expressing harmony among Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural style. Along with the traffic function, the bridge is also where religious activities related to the legend of keeping peace for streets and communities of Hoi An out of sea monsters take place.

Address: Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Cẩm Phô, Tp. Hội An, Quảng Nam

2. Ong Pagoda (Chùa Ông)

Ong Pagoda is also known as Quan Cong (Guan Gong) Temple, named Trung Han Cung, built in the mid 17th century by Vietnamese people and Minh Huong people settling down in Hoi An. The Pagoda is to worship the talented general of The Three Kingdoms, Quan Van Truong (Guan Yu), for admiration and praise for his lofty heart.

Address: 24 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

3. Ba Le Well (Giếng Bá Lễ)

Legend has it that Ba Le Well is built by the Cham people and inherited to use by the Vietnamese. In the early twentieth century, this well is renovated by Mrs. Ba Le in the amount of 100 co Indochina and that is the explanation for its current name.

The well is square-shaped with well-curb to the northwest-southeast. Its circumference is 5.5m besides 6.15m depth and 0.6m height. The curb was built entirely of big-sized mallet bricks, the bottom is the broad iron wood frame. Well water is always plentiful, fresh and cool throughout the year reflecting the high level of harmony between the art of architecture and art of Fengshui of Hoi An ancient people.

Address: Ba Kiet Alley, Tran Hung Dao Street (linked to Phan Chau Trinh Street), Hoi An, Quang Nam.

4. Phuc Kien Assembly Hall (Hội quán Phúc Kiến)

According to legend, the predecessor of the Assembly Hall is a small temple worshipping the statue of Thien Hau Thanh Mau (the patron deity of the fishermen and beachgoers) that is taken from the coast of Hoi An in 1697. Through many restorations, with the main contribution from overseas Chinese of Phuc Kien Assembly, the Assembly Hall is becoming more radiant and spacious, which presents the architecture of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Address: 46 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

5. Trieu Chau (Chaozhou) Assembly Hall (Hội quán Triều Châu)

The Assembly Hall was built in 1845 by Overseas Chinese of Chaozhou assembly to worship Fubo Jiangjun, Ma Yuan – a deity conquering waves that helps people travelling and trading on sea smoothly. The hall possesses a special value of architectural structure with its intricate carving of timber frames, textures, decoration of wooden altars and wonderful creatures embossed by crockery.

Address: 157 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

6. Cantonese Assembly Hall (Hội quán Quảng Đông)

The Assembly Hall was built in 1885 by Overseas Chinese of Cantonese assembly, initially to worship Thien Hau Thanh Mau and Confucius, and later in 1911, it turned to worship Quan Cong (Guan Gong) and their ancestors.

The rational use of wood and stone in the bearing structure with cornices gives Assembly Hall an imposing beauty. Besides, for the ritual worship of Guan Gong on lunar June 24, a solemn festival is held yearly, which attracts a large number of people to come.

Address: 176 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

7. Museum of History and Culture (Bảo tàng Lịch sử, Văn hóa)

Founded in 1989, the museum exhibits 212 original artifacts and valuable material made of ceramic, bronze, iron, paper and wood, reflecting stages of development of the trading port of Hoi An from The Sa Huynh culture (2nd century AD) to the Cham culture (from the 2nd century to the 15th century) and the Dai Viet, the Dai Nam culture (from the 15th century to the 19th century).

Museum provides information about the ancient people of The Sa Huynh culture in Hoi An – the owners of the port town of Hoi An, who had exchange relations with China, India, South Asia, East Asia.

Address: 10B Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

8. The clan ancestral house of Tran (Nhà thờ tộc Trần)

The house was built in 1802 by a Tran mandarin (a large family emigrated from China to Hoi An in the 1700s), based on the principles of Chinese and Vietnamese traditional Fengshui. It is located in the large area of approximately 1500 m2 with many categories: house of worshipping grandparents and displaying relics related to family, housing and others. This is where the children and grandchildren gathering on occasion of worshipping and expressing their gratitude to ancestors or solving the problems of the clan.

Address: 21 Le Loi, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

9. Old House of Tan Ky (Nhà cổ Tấn Ký)

Built nearly 200 years ago, Tan Ky is a typical house in Hoi An, which is divided into many compartments and each one has its own function. The front of the house is the place to open shops, the back linked to the river is the place for import and export of goods.

Houses were built of traditional materials and were created by local carpenters and bricklayers. Therefore, this small and refined mannered house not only brings the feeling of coziness but also expresses the interference of architectural styles in the region. Especially, interior decoration represents affluence of its owners.
On February 17, 1990, Tan Ky house was listed as a Historic Monument - National Culture.

Address: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

10. Quan Thang Ancient House (Nhà cổ Quân Thắng)

This is one of the oldest and the most beautiful houses in Hoi An, built around the end of the seventeenth century by a Chinese wholesale shopkeeper, named Quan Thang. The house is a typical type of bungalow through two parallel roads and contains many characteristics of Hoi An architecture.

Address: 77 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

11. Duc An Ancient House (Nhà cổ Đức An)

The 180-year-old house is where ancient and taciturn features still exist on each very casual item of the family, where people could perceive clearly the slow drift of time. From hugely simple things in the house such as kerosene lamp, pen shelf to the furniture, Tu Binh paintings nearly hundreds of years.

Address: 129 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

12. Hoi An Market (Chợ Hội An)

This market makes numerous tourists literally alluded to pay a visit and do shopping. Almost every item of Hoi An, from food and specialty to handicraft items, can be easily found in the market. Besides calling in on, visitors could experience the daily life of indigenous people so as to know more about Hoi An's culture.

Address: Tran Quy Cap, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

The post 12 Must-Visit Hoi An Ancient Town Attractions appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

1. Hoi An Chicken Rice

It can be said that chicken rice is a Hoi An specialty that makes tourists extremely impressed and engaged when they are visiting there. As you know, chicken rice can be found anywhere but why is Hoi An chicken rice more famous and unique? It is all thanks to the skillful hands of the Hoi An women. Rice is well done then being cooled and roasted until dried out so as to make it full of  eye-catching colour of yellow. Besides, boiled chicken is made into strands then mixed with some spices, pepper, chilli to put on the plate with roasted rice along with fewer herbs. In addition, there is also a tasty bowl of broth served. I feel like I could see you are craving for the dish while reading this! So where can you taste this delicious?

Addresses:
1. Chicken Rice Ba Buoi (Cơm gà Bà Buội) – 22 Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
2. Chicken Rice Huong (Cơm gà Hương) – Alley Sica, 48 Le Loi, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
3. Chicken Rice Xi (Cơm gà Xí) – 47/2 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
4. Chicken Rice Ba Lam (Cơm gà Bà Lắm) – Alley 51, Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

2. Cao Lau

When it comes to Hoi An, it is impossible not to mention Cao Lau because the dish is a unique food associated with the ancient town of Hoi An. Cao Lau is made from crispy noodles, not like normal squashy ones. You can mix noodles in the bowl comfortably without being afraid of crushing them. Specially, it is often eaten with herbs, pork fillet, a little broth, pork skin chips/pork rinds and a few other separate ingredients. Due to the difference in each person’s taste, some people will find this dish delicious but it might be not so good for others. So you want to know, try your own taste!

Addresses:
1. Cao Lau Ba Be (Cao Lầu Bà Bé) – In the market at Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam. (Only sell from 2:00PM daily)
2. Cao Lau Trung Bac (Cao Lầu Trung Bắc) – 87 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
3. Thanh Cao Lau (Thanh Cao Lầu) – 26 Thai Phien, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

3. Banh Mi Hoi An (Bánh Mì Hội An)

Banh Mi is a famous street food around the world thanks to its cheap price and convenience that you might not be unfamiliar with. Banh Mi in other places is not likely to become a specialty, but in Hoi An it is an extremely additctive dish. Many foreign tourists after returning home have also shared about Banh Mi Hoi An with compliments. Just ‘google’  “Best Banh Mi in Vietnam” and you can get exactly what I said. What is so special about this Hoi An folk food that is so popular with numerous people?  The answer lies in the crunchy crust bread with a variety of meat, herbs and unique sauce inside which makes the bread is not too greasy but enough nutrients. You may only eat once but once is not enough!

Addresses:
1. Banh Mi Phuong – 2B Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An, Quang Nam. (This is the best Banh Mi)
2. Banh Mi Madam Khanh – 115 Tran Cao Van, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

4. Bánh Ướt Cuốn Thịt Nướng (BBQ Pork rolled in steamed thin rice pancake)

The next flavored food you also have to try it once is ‘Banh Uot Cuon Thit Nuong’. The steamed thin rice pancake is like “Rolled Phở” in Northern Vietnam (can be found in Ha Noi) but thinner. When you eat, it will be accompanied by barbecue, herbs, cucumber and dotted with quite spicy sauce. The meat marinade is baked with charcoal so it really smells good, the sellers often grind the meat and then wrap the bamboo chopsticks to bake. The dish usually served with rich sauce brings unforgettable taste for visitors and you should be the next one to be served!

Addresses: You could go to the sidewalks along the Hoai River, the pavement at the crossroads between Hai Ba Trung and Tran Hung Dao or to Tran Phu street!

5. Banh Dap – Hen Xao (Bánh Đập – Hến Xào) Gridle-cake (rice paper) fold with steamed thin rice pancake inside and Fried baby basket clams

Banh Dap – Hen Xao is a palatable combination that local people have come up with to cater to the eating needs of tourists. The dish of “Banh Dap” has such a strange name because before serving it to the patrons, the innkeeper had to fold the baked gridle-cake and lay a thin layer of steamed rice pancake together allowing them to stick. To eat probably, you should break small pieces of Banh Dap and then mixed with Hen Xao to feel the “yummy”. If you want to take the right “Banh Dap – Hen Xao” in Hoi An, then come to the following addresses:

Addresses:
1. Quán Lân – Cao Lau & Banh Dap – Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
2. Quán Có Ngay – Nguyen Tri Phuong, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
3. Quán Bà Già – Cam Nam, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

6. Banh Bao – Banh Vac (Bánh Bao – Bánh Vạc/Steamed wheat flour cake – Vietnamese pork and shrimps Dumblings)

Banh Bao and Banh Vac are two types of cake with similar ingredients and usually served on the same plate. Banh Vac made from shrimps mixed with some pepper, garlic, onions, citronella and esoteric spice while Banh Bao made from pork, mushrooms, thinly sliced green onions and also with that esoteric spice. Perhaps this seasoning is also a reason why Banh Bao – Banh Vac could be only eaten way so good in Hoi An. Here is the place to eat delicious Banh Bao – Banh Vac in Hoi An.

Address: Quán Hoa Hồng Trắng – 533 Hai Ba Trung (Nhi Trung), Hoi An, Quang Nam.

7. Banh Beo (Bánh Bèo/Water fern cake)

Banh Beo is well-known as a special dish in Central Vietnam, so whether you travel to Da Nang, Hue or Hoi An, you can enjoy this cake. The cakes are usually placed in small cups and when guests want to eat, the owner will add a dimple of chopped, dried or fresh shrimp, scallions, mung bean paste, crispy fried shallots, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and oil above. If you are wondering why this dish in Hoi An is different from Da Nang or Hue, then come and taste!

Address: Quán Bà Bảy – Hoang Van Thu, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

8. Banh Can (Bánh Căn)

Banh Can is originated from Phan Rang, Ninh Thuan province, but unknown when it was “imported” to Hoi An. Banh Can Hoi An was remixed to better match the taste of the locals. Its sauce is considered as the “soul” of the dish. Depending on personal taste, you can add chili sauce or just use available fish sauce mixed with lemon, garlic, and chilli. With layers of fried crisp but not hard, fresh vegetables eaten with green papaya salad, indeed this is the common delicacy preferred by visitors.

Address: The first corner of Tran Cao Van, Hoi An, Quang Nam.

The post The Essential Hoi An Food Bucket List appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Cầu Rồng (Dragon Bridge)

On March 29th, 2013, citizens of Đà Nẵng greeted a valuable addition to the city’s collection of bridges, one that bears the shape of a dragon, glows during night time and occasionally breathes fire – the Dragon Bridge. Boasting a length of 666 meters, the bridge serves as a faster route from Đà Nẵng Airport to the heart of the city, providing numerous vehicles with a passage across Hàn river on its six impressively wide lanes (total width is 37.5 meters). What makes this bridge stand out is, of course, its extraordinary architecture. As mentioned, the bridge’s arches form a large-scale model of a dragon from the Lý dynasty. The gold dragon flies in the direction of the sea, symbolizing growth and prosperity, and after sunset, it is lit inside-out with multi colored lights. That, coupled with the frequent ‘fire breaths’, makes for an extravagant display which few would want to miss.

Trần Thị Lý Bridge

Built back in 1950 during the French Colonial Period as the only bridge across Hàn river, the bridge went through many names, first known as De Lattre bridge, then Trịnh Minh Thế bridge and finally Trần Thị Lý bridge when it was rebuilt around the same time as the Dragon Bridge. It is 731 meters long and 34.5 meters wide and though lacking in splendor when compared to its dragon-like counterpart, Trần Thị Lý bridge still sports some of the most stunning architectural features, with its single support pylon built not upright but a little leaned to the side so that when viewed along with the cables, the whole structure would resemble sail gliding towards the sea, as an emblem of the city’s desire to thrive. Similar to the Dragon Bridge, this bridge treats its onlooker to a feast of eye candy with its splendid light performances every night.

Address: Cầu Trần Thị Lý, Hòa Cường Bắc, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng

Hàn River Bridge

Aah, the swing bridges, feats of engineering, unearthly sights to the eyes and marks of human’s resourcefulness, all in Da Nang. This makes it feel a little bit privileged for Đà Nẵng to have the only such bridge in Vietnam in its own traffic system – the Hàn River bridge.

Following 5 years of construction, the Hàn River bridge had its inauguration on March 29th, 2003. A major route across Hàn river, the bridge stands as a source of pride for Vietnam’s construction industry, having been thoroughly designed and built by Vietnamese architects and engineers despite being the first of its kind. With its opening, Đà Nẵng entered a new era of growth to become the lively and flourishing city that came to be known as ‘the new Singapore’.

Hàn River Bridge is approximately 487 meters long and 13 meters wide – a no match for the above-mentioned bridges in terms of size or grandeur, yet many still regard it as the most interesting bridge in Đà Nẵng. Why? Because its main attraction only comes at midnight (yes, midnight!) – the ‘swinging’ action: at anytime from 11 p.m to 2 a.m everyday (exact time fluctuates) and for a span of just over an hour, the middle section of the bridge turns 90 degrees sideways to make room for large coming vessels to pass through and then revert to its original state. Indeed, this makes for a curiously mesmerizing sight, at least for those new to swing bridges, and a good many of such are to be found on the riverside or even the bridge spectating with awed eyes.  

If you have ample time to discover Đà Nẵng, be sure not to miss out on this wondrous moment. After all, who doesn’t want to be chilling by the banks with cool breezes blowing from the river while watching such a massive structure morph itself.

Address: Cầu Sông Hàn, Hải Châu 1, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng

Thuận Phước Bridge

Some would disagree, but I like to call Đà Nẵng the city of the extremes – it has some of the best holiday resorts, it is regarded as the best place to live in Vietnam, TripAdvisor puts it in the top 10 new destinations, and on July 19th, 2009, with the inauguration of Thuận Phước bridge, the city officially became known for having the longest suspension bridge in all of Vietnam. Unlike the somewhat traditional-looking Dragon bridge, this 1856-meter-long bridge has a modern aura to itself, and the fact that it’s located right on the waterfront only helps to further its attractiveness. During daytime, the bridge’s white-washed supports help to polish the already gleaming cityscape; at night, its technicolor lighting adds a touch of enigma to the ever so captivating view over Hàn river. Yet, spectacle aside, the significance of Thuận Phước bridge lies in its functionality as a way of connecting major routes to form a continuous traffic system from Hải Vân to Sơn Trà peninsula, thereby expanding travel and business opportunities. Indeed, if the completion of Hàn River bridge marked a new period of development for Đà Nẵng, then the erection of Thuận Phước bridge would be the sweet result.

There’s a story behind every nickname, and behind Đà Nẵng – ‘The city of bridges’ lies the story of a burgeoning city striving every day towards a better future for its citizens. Surely, some may see Đà Nẵng’s bridges as no more than concrete and metal, but like every great architectural landmark, it is still what makes them stand out.

Address: Cầu Thuận Phước, Thanh Khê, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng

To see more photos, check Photo Album Flickr

Come to Đà Nẵng, and come visit the bridges, you won’t regret it!

Words by Content writer Duy Nguyen
Photos taken and video shot by Contributor Lan Nguyen

The post Discover Da Nang’s Most Beautiful Bridges appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

—
Video shot and edited by Lan Nguyen
Scriptwriter: Linh An Vo

The post Da Nang’s Beautiful Bridges appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

I once came to Huế as of my admiration for a long-existing city with a rich culture influenced by both the French and Eastern architectures. Before departing, I had actually received a “friendly warning” from a friend of mine living in Huế: “Don’t go or you will be bored to death”. At first, I thought she was just kidding but then I finally realized that it was actually a bit boring as I am kind of an extroverted party goer. The pace of life seemed extremely slow and peaceful as if there would be no crimes or fights. Huế’s life is as semplice and unobtrusive as its culture and people. As a small city with not so many citizens, Huế brings home to mind. I remembered going out on the street at rush hour with a friend who lives in Huế and it seemed like “rush hour” is not a good term to describe such a place like Huế. Mostly in the evening, people like to walk on Trường Tiền Bridge to enjoy the peaceful night on the beautiful Hương River, which literally means “River of Perfume”. Tourists normally take a cyclo around the city to a small China Town, Áo Dài Street and night market.

I reckon that it seems like this city is almost sleeping at 9 pm or maybe 10 pm. However, under Tràng Tiền Bridge or on the night street, there are gonna be lots of people still enjoying their supper. And if you are a “speed lover”, you will be driven crazy because some restaurants’ services are slow to death!

But after all, Huế is still a special city carrying a dignified atmosphere throughout hundreds of years. And I highly recommend it to those who love something “off the beaten track” with no bars, pubs or anything common for a lousy night.

All the photos below are taken by one of Maze Vietnam’s contributor recently living in Hue. She took her camera out and captured all the moments of the pace of life in Hue on a rainy day. All the friendly Hue people are still calm and moving slowly no matter how heavy the rain could be.

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

Words by Trang Nguyen
Photos by Mai Nguyen

The post The pace of Life in Hue | Photo Gallery appeared first on Maze Vietnam.

Apart from all these things, a festival in Da Nang is another reason that should be taken into account. Started since 2008, Danang International Fireworks Festival is a special event held every April on 29^th or 30^th with the aim of celebrating the Reunification Day and Labour Day of the country.

It has the participation of 3 to 4 foreign countries and Vietnam as a host country. This is the very first international fireworks competition in Vietnam. Once visiting Đà Nẵng on these special days, you should join with 25.000 people and witness the countries compete in a beautiful Fireworks competition.

In this year – 2017, as announced, the festival would be lasting for 2 months with the presence of 8 countries such as Austria, Australia, China, The UK, Switzerland, and Vietnam. The chosen topic this time would be named “Toa Sang Ngu Hanh Son”, which literally stands for 5 iconic mountains known as the city’s popular tourist attractions, called “Metal – Wood – Water – Fire – Earth”. The competition took place on 5 nights, on every Saturday and 3 teams with highest scores would be going to be announced on the last day June 24^th, 2017, getting selected into the finale.

“3 containers of firecrackers will be handed to the teams and the maximum length of duration for each team’s performance is 25 minutes”- said Le Quy Duong, program’s director-in-chief.

Along with the main show, other activities such as Food Festival, Street Parade, Singing performance on stage are also the great highlights attracting visitors from all over the world.

The post International Fireworks Festival in Da Nang appeared first on Maze Vietnam.