Hanoi Ranked in Top Ten of MSN’s Charming Asia Destinations for Romantic Getaways

Vietnam ranks 96 out of 132 countries on the 2020 Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI), down four positions compared to last year and nine positions in 2018.

When in Hai Phong, travellers should check out these two dining spots: Truc Lam and Maxim’s Restaurant and Bar. Those who want to get a taste of the best Vietnamese dishes should go to Truc Lam, or ‘Bamboo Forest.’ The name of the restaurant was based on a Chinese legend about travellers who lost their way in the woods. Truc Lam is known for serving traditional Vietnamese dishes, though there are also special tredats (such as Norwegian salmon and New Zealand beef) imported on several occasions. All meals are served on big plates. Aside from the earthenware, the pottery that lines the shelves in the restaurant is also oversized. Both locals and expats dine here. Those who want to enjoy Western meals while in Hai Phong should visit Maxim’s Restaurant and Bar. The menu features Vietnamese dishes, but there are also many Western favourites which are given a Vietnamese spin, such as pizza, sandwiches and steaks. The interiors add to the Western feel: the place is like a diner, with its coffee-shop arrangement and linen tablecloths. Breakfast here is highly recommended.

Though there are limited options for shopping in Halong Bay, what is actually available can be very interesting. Try the night market at Bai Chay Town. It is set up with many small open-air stalls with good collections of Vietnamese products includes the famous traditional Vietnamese silk dress (ao dai), lacquerware, chopsticks, trinkets, ceramic tea sets, Vietnamese conical hats (nón lá) and dolls. Experienced shoppers recommend bargaining hard to 30-50% of the original offered price. Most shops accept US Dollars as well as the local currency, Dong. Another fun way of shopping is from small floating shops. Local people row boats filled with goods such as beer, vodka, cigarettes, potato chips, cookies and other snacks. Their small boats are usually laden with goods in a very organised way and even if you’re not buying anything these vessels are fascinating to see and photograph. It is important for shoppers not to encourage vendors selling stalagmites and stalactites as they should stay where they belong – inside Halong’s caves and grottos. 

While Vietnam has developed a reputation for romantic beaches, it is increasingly known for its range of beautiful caves. Let’s take a closer look and explore the majestic beauty of the country’s best caves.

VOV.VN -Director and actor, People’s Artist Tran Phuong, has been noted for many films he either directed or played a role in that have gone down in history of the Vietnam revolutionary cinematography.