Horse ride service in Sapa District

 In Sa Pa, the best places to rent a horse for riding and photography are the Cat Cat area and various mountain villages. Visitors can combine costume rental, makeup, and a photoshoot with the horse to create a photo album featuring the distinctive style of the Northwest region.

Regarding costume rental, makeup, and photography in the Cat Cat area: while these services are readily available, it is advisable to inquire in advance specifically about horse rentals, as not all establishments keep horses on-site at all times.

At the foot of Fansipan Mountain, you can rent a horse for photos or to ride up the slope to the parking area, located about 300 meters away.

Visitors are encouraged to wear H'Mông or Red Dao traditional costumes and schedule their shoot for early morning or late afternoon; the backdrop of mountains, terraced fields, and Sa Pa’s mist makes for stunning photographs.

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Sapa stone Church

Sa Pa Stone Church, also known as the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, is one of the most famous landmarks in Sa Pa. Located in the heart of the town, the church stands beside the central square, with Ham Rong Mountain rising behind it.

1. History

The church is closely associated with the development of Sa Pa as a mountain resort during the French colonial period.

Historical sources give slightly different dates for its construction. Some sources date the beginning of the project to the late 19th century, while other records indicate that the parish was established in 1902 and the stone church was built in the 1920s. The church was completed and officially put into use in 1935.

During the wars, religious activities at the church were interrupted for periods of time. The building later underwent several stages of restoration, while preserving many of its original architectural features.

Today, Sa Pa Stone Church is not only an important religious building but also one of the symbols of Sa Pa, closely connected with the central square, local cultural life and tourism.

2. Architectural Features

The most distinctive feature of Sa Pa Stone Church is its European Gothic architecture, combined with local materials and adapted to the mountainous climate of Sa Pa.

The main architectural features include:

• A cruciform layout, which is characteristic of Catholic church architecture.
• A tall bell tower, which creates a striking landmark in the skyline of Sa Pa.
• Steep roofs, pointed arches and vertical lines, giving the building the characteristic appearance of Gothic architecture.
• Stone walls and stonework, creating a solid yet elegant appearance.
• A spacious surrounding area, which connects the church with the central square and the life of Sa Pa.

The beauty of the church comes not only from its architecture but also from its spectacular setting. The grey stone walls, steep roofs and tall bell tower look particularly impressive when surrounded by the misty mountains of Sa Pa.

3. A Meeting Point of Cultures

One of the most interesting things about Sa Pa Stone Church is that it has become part of the everyday cultural life of the local community.

The square in front of the church has long been an important public gathering place. Visitors can often see local ethnic communities, especially during traditional cultural activities and festivals.

For this reason, the church can be seen as a fascinating meeting point between European architecture, Sa Pa's history and the traditional cultures of the ethnic groups of Northwest Vietnam.

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Tam Coc Boat Pier – Ninh Binh

 Tam Coc Boat Pier is the starting point for one of the most famous boat journeys in Ninh Binh. From here, visitors take a traditional small sampan boat along the peaceful Ngo Dong River, surrounded by spectacular limestone mountains and beautiful countryside.

The name “Tam Coc” means “Three Caves.” During the boat trip, we pass through three natural caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba. The caves were formed naturally over thousands of years as water gradually eroded the limestone mountains.

One of the most beautiful features of the journey is the landscape along the river. Visitors can see green mountains, peaceful villages and rice fields stretching between the limestone peaks. During the rice-growing season, the fields become especially beautiful, creating a wonderful combination of green or golden rice paddies, blue water and limestone mountains.

Another interesting part of the experience is watching the local boat rowers. They are very skillful at maneuvering their small boats through the narrow river and the low entrances of the caves. For many visitors, this peaceful boat ride is a wonderful way to experience the traditional countryside of northern Vietnam.

Tam Coc is part of the Trang An Landscape Complex, which was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2014 for its outstanding natural and cultural values.

For international visitors, a boat trip at Tam Coc is not simply a sightseeing tour. It is an opportunity to experience the peaceful beauty of rural Vietnam, discover its spectacular limestone landscape and enjoy a memorable journey through the heart of nature.

Welcome to Tam Coc – where rivers, mountains, caves and rice fields come together to create one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes.

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 Kayaking is one of the most exciting and memorable activities for visitors exploring Ha Long Bay. It offers travelers a chance to experience the bay from a completely different perspective and get much closer to its spectacular limestone landscape.

 What makes kayaking in Ha Long Bay special?

1. Kayaking among the limestone islands

Instead of simply viewing the scenery from a cruise boat, kayaking allows visitors to paddle through the calm, emerald-green waters and get close to the towering limestone cliffs.

It is a peaceful and active way to explore the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay.

2. Exploring Luon Cave

Luon Cave is one of the most popular places for kayaking in Ha Long Bay. Located on Bo Hon Island, the cave has a relatively low entrance, so visitors usually enter by kayak or small local boat.

Inside the cave is a quiet, enclosed lagoon surrounded by impressive limestone cliffs. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to enjoy nature.

3. Ba Hang area

Ba Hang is another popular kayaking area. It features beautiful limestone islands, calm waters and typical scenery of Ha Long Bay.

Paddling through this area gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the landscape at their own pace.

4. Combining kayaking with a visit to a floating fishing village

Some cruises combine kayaking with visits to traditional fishing communities, such as Vung Vieng or Cua Van.

This allows visitors not only to admire the scenery but also to learn more about the traditional way of life of fishermen who have lived on the bay for generations.

 How long does the kayaking activity take?

Kayaking is normally included as part of a one-day or two-day, one-night cruise, rather than being offered as a completely separate tour.

The kayaking location and duration depend on the cruise itinerary, weather conditions, tides and the regulations governing tourist activities in the bay.

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Hekou – A Border Town Between China and Vietnam

 Hekou (河口) is a small but lively border town in Yunnan Province, southwestern China. It is located directly opposite Lao Cai City in northern Vietnam, with the two towns separated by the Red River. Location

Hekou is part of the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province. It lies right on the China–Vietnam border, making it an important gateway between the two countries.

A Busy Border Town

Hekou is one of the important border crossings between China and Vietnam. The area is particularly active in trade, import and export, and cross-border travel.

The town is connected to other parts of Yunnan by road and railway, including routes leading to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province.

 Cultural Exchange

As a border town, Hekou has a unique atmosphere where Chinese and Vietnamese cultures meet. For generations, people on both sides of the border have traded, traveled and interacted with one another.

The streets around the border area are lively, with shops, markets and restaurants serving both local residents and visitors from Vietnam and China.

 Hekou and Lao Cai

One of the most interesting things for international visitors is how close the two towns are. From the center of Lao Cai, travelers can cross the international border and enter Hekou.

The border area includes a bridge across the river connecting the two sides, creating a fascinating experience of crossing from Vietnam into China within just a short distance.

 A Gateway to Yunnan

Hekou is more than just a border crossing. It is also an important gateway to Yunnan Province.

From Hekou, travelers can continue their journey to famous destinations such as Kunming, Jianshui and Mengzi, and explore the rich landscapes and diverse cultures of Yunnan.

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Coc Leu market in Lao Cai city

 Coc Leu Market is the largest and busiest market in Lao Cai Province. Located in the heart of Lao Cai City, just 1–2 kilometers from the Lao Cai International Border Gate, it is a popular stop for both local residents and visitors traveling to or from Sa Pa.

The market dates back to the early 20th century and developed alongside the growth of Coc Leu Ward and cross-border trade between Vietnam and China. After several renovations, it now consists of two main sections with more than 600 stalls offering a wide variety of goods.

At Coc Leu Market, visitors can discover many specialties from Vietnam's northwest region, including dried bamboo shoots, Shiitake mushrooms, Shan Tuyet tea, wild honey, cardamom, medicinal herbs, and other local products. The market is also well known for its colorful ethnic brocade textiles, traditional handicrafts, clothing, household goods, and imported products.

The food court is another highlight, where visitors can enjoy authentic local dishes such as thang co (a traditional Hmong stew), sour pho, five-colored sticky rice, banh khao (a traditional sweet cake), and a variety of grilled mountain specialties.

In 2025, Coc Leu Market was officially recognized as a tourist destination by Lao Cai Province. Today, it is not only an important commercial center but also a place where visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere, unique culture, and daily life of Vietnam's northern border region.

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Don Thoc Flowers – The Fiery Blossoms of Fansipan

 Don Thoc flowers are among the most distinctive and beautiful wildflowers found in the high mountains of Sa Pa, especially around the summit of Fansipan. Every year, from August to September, the mountain slopes are covered in brilliant shades of orange and crimson, creating a breathtaking landscape against the misty skies of Northwest Vietnam.

The flowers grow in long, graceful clusters, with blossoms opening gradually from the bottom to the top. Their shape resembles ripe rice ears, which is why local people call them "Don Thoc", meaning "gladiolus rice spike."

Beyond their beauty, Don Thoc flowers symbolize strength, resilience, and the spirit of overcoming challenges. Flourishing at elevations of more than 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), where the climate is harsh and unpredictable, they bloom like small flames illuminating the rugged mountain landscape. For this reason, they are often affectionately known as "the muse of the Northwest mountains."

In recent years, the Don Thoc Flower Festival has been held at the Fansipan tourist area during the blooming season. Visitors can admire thousands of vibrant flowers while enjoying traditional ethnic performances, folk games, and unique cultural experiences offered by the local hill tribes.

For many travelers, the Don Thoc flowering season is one of the most magical times to visit Fansipan. Surrounded by a sea of clouds and the brilliant orange-red blossoms, the scenery is both majestic and romantic, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories of Sa Pa.

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Bai Chay Bridge in Halong city

 Bai Chay Bridge is one of the most iconic modern landmarks of Ha Long City. Spanning the Cua Luc Estuary, it connects the bustling tourist area of Bai Chay with the city center of Hon Gai. More than just a vital transportation link, the bridge has become a striking architectural symbol of Ha Long.

• Construction began: 2003
• Officially opened: December 2, 2006
• Bridge type: Single-plane cable-stayed bridge
• Total length: Approximately 1,106 meters (with the main bridge measuring about 903 meters)
• Main span: 435 meters, making it the longest single-plane cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam when it was completed
• Width: Approximately 25 meters, accommodating four traffic lanes as well as walkways for pedestrians and bicycles
• Navigation clearance: Around 50 meters, allowing large cruise ships and cargo vessels to pass safely beneath the bridge.

Inspired by the graceful shape of a sail catching the wind, Bai Chay Bridge blends beautifully with the spectacular scenery of Ha Long Bay. At night, its colorful lighting transforms the bridge into one of the city's most impressive landmarks and a favorite spot for sightseeing and photography.

Replacing the former Bai Chay ferry service, the bridge has greatly reduced travel time between Hon Gai and Bai Chay. It also plays a vital role in promoting tourism, economic development, and regional connectivity within Quang Ninh Province and the Northern Economic Triangle of Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Ha Long.

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Halong International Cruise Port

 Halong International Cruise Port, developed by Sun Group in Bai Chay, is Vietnam's first dedicated international cruise port. It serves as a modern maritime gateway, welcoming both domestic and international visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay.

The port accommodates international cruise ships and luxury liners, allowing passengers to embark and disembark directly in Ha Long. It also serves as the departure point for sightseeing boats exploring the breathtaking Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.

The passenger terminal, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, offers modern facilities including ticketing counters, comfortable waiting lounges, tourist information services, restaurants, souvenir shops, and other visitor amenities.

In addition, the port is fully equipped with customs, immigration, border control, and quarantine services to handle international cruise operations efficiently.

As one of Quang Ninh's key tourism infrastructure projects, Halong International Cruise Port plays an important role in promoting cruise tourism and connecting visitors with nearby attractions such as Sun World Ha Long, luxury hotels, entertainment complexes, and the spectacular natural beauty of Ha Long Bay.

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Do Temple in Bac Ninh province

 Đền Đô (Do Temple) is a sacred temple in Bac Ninh dedicated to the eight emperors of the Ly Dynasty. It is the ancestral temple of the Ly kings, including Emperor Ly Thai To, who moved Vietnam's capital to Thang Long (present-day Hanoi) in 1010. 

Photo Internet

With its elegant traditional architecture, peaceful gardens, and profound historical significance, Den Do is one of northern Vietnam's most important cultural and spiritual landmarks.

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The History of the French-Built Hydroelectric Power Plant in Sa Pa

 The Cat Cat Hydroelectric Power Plant is the first hydroelectric power station built by the French in Sa Pa and one of the oldest hydroelectric plants in Vietnam.

In 1925, the French colonial administration constructed the Cat Cat Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Cat Cat Stream, about 3–4 kilometers from the center of Sa Pa. The plant was built to supply electricity to the French hill station, including villas, hotels, government offices, and the telegraph system.

Because of Sa Pa's rugged mountainous terrain, all the machinery, turbines, and equipment were shipped from France to Hai Phong by sea, transported by train to Lao Cai, and then carried to Sa Pa by porters and pack horses. The construction process was extremely challenging and took several years to complete.

The plant's original capacity was about 50 kW (later upgraded to approximately 100 kW), which was sufficient to provide electricity for the entire town of Sa Pa at that time. It was considered a remarkable engineering achievement in the early 20th century.

In 1953, during the First Indochina War, the generating equipment was dismantled and removed for safekeeping, causing the plant to cease operations. Around 1960, with assistance from Polish engineers, the power station was restored and upgraded to a capacity of about 100 kW, once again supplying electricity to several government buildings in Sa Pa.

Today, the Cat Cat Hydroelectric Power Plant is no longer in operation, but it has been preserved as an important historical site in Vietnam's electricity industry. Visitors to Cat Cat Village can still see the remains of the powerhouse, the old water pipeline, the original turbines, and iron electricity poles dating back to 1925—lasting reminders of the period when the French transformed Sa Pa into one of Indochina's most famous mountain resorts.

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History of Ngo Quyen street in Hanoi

Ngo Quyen Street is one of Hanoi's most elegant and historically significant streets. Stretching for about 1.2 kilometers, it runs from Hang Voi Street to Ham Long Street, crossing major roads such as Ly Thai To, Trang Tien, Hai Ba Trung, Ly Thuong Kiet, and Tran Hung Dao.

The area was originally part of several ancient villages in Tho Xuong District. In 1892, during the French colonial period, the street was redesigned and named Boulevard Henri Rivière. After the August Revolution of 1945, it was renamed Ngo Quyen Street in honor of the Vietnamese national hero who defeated the Southern Han fleet on the Bach Dang River in 938, marking the beginning of a long era of Vietnam's independence.

 

 

Ngo Quyen Street is closely associated with many important events in modern Vietnamese history. Its most notable landmark is No. 12 Ngo Quyen, now the Government Guest House. During the French colonial era, it served as the residence of the Governor of Tonkin. On August 19, 1945, revolutionary forces took control of the building. It later became Bac Bo Phu (the Northern Government Headquarters), where President Ho Chi Minh and the Provisional Government worked in the early days of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

Today, Ngo Quyen Street is renowned for its shady tree-lined avenues, beautifully preserved French colonial villas, and historic public buildings. It is home to several famous landmarks, including the Government Guest House, the historic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, and a number of important government offices, making it one of the most charming streets where visitors can experience both the elegance and rich history of Hanoi.

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When Hanoi became capital of Vietnam

 

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, was relocated from Hoa Lu (in present-day Ninh Binh Province) to Dai La in 1010.

Emperor Ly Thai To, the founder of the Ly Dynasty, issued the famous Edict on the Transfer of the Capital, deciding to move the capital from Hoa Lu to Dai La. He believed that Dai La's central location, spacious land, higher elevation, and favorable conditions for transportation, economic development, and national defense made it the ideal place for the country's capital.

According to legend, as the royal boat arrived at Dai La, the Emperor saw a golden dragon rising into the sky. Interpreting this as a good omen, he renamed the city Thang Long, meaning "Ascending Dragon." Thang Long later evolved into present-day Hanoi.

This historic decision marked the beginning of more than 1,000 years of continuous development, making Thang Long–Hanoi the political, cultural, and historical heart of Vietnam.

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