Tourism firms pin hopes on Russian visitors
Representatives of a number of local travel firms and high-class hotels attended the tourism fair Leisure 2012 in Russia as the Eastern European nation has emerged as a potential market for Vietnam’s tourism industry.
The enterprises included Saigontourist, Huong Giang, Focus Asia, Anh Duong, Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa, Mui Ne Bay and Ocean Villa.
State management agencies such as the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, and tourism promotion agencies of HCMC, Danang and Binh Thuan also joined the event, which took place last week.
Nguyen Van Khoa, general director of Mui Ne Bay Resort, said that Russia is a huge potential market and the number of Russian tourists coming to Vietnam is expected to increase sharply in the near future.
“Many Russian travel firms have introduced Vietnam to their clients. Russian vacationers currently account for around 40% at our resort and the figure will increase further next season,” Khoa told the Daily on Wednesday.
Pegas Touirstik, one of the Russian firms offering tours to Vietnam, is the most active firm in promoting new destinations and it received excellent feedback from customers at the fair.
The firm only entered the Vietnamese market 12 months ago but its impressive growth is heartening. The enterprise sent 50,000 visitors to Vietnam during the previous travel season and the number is expected to double for the peak season from November to early next year.
Tran Chi Cuong, deputy director of Danang City’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the agency met some Russian travel firms on the sidelines of the fair. The companies insisted they were very keen to bring their clients to the central coastal city.
“We also met leaders of Pegas Touristik. The company promised to double the Russian tourist numbers to Danang,” Cuong said.
Hoang Thi Phong Thu, chairwoman of Anh Duong Co. Ltd., said Russian partners are eyeing new destinations such as Con Dao and Phu Quoc after launching flights to Cam Ranh and Danang. In Cam Ranh, Russian firms have plans to use Boeing airplanes to carry more tourists rather than Airbuses.
However, Russian partners at the fair complained about the lack of Russian-speaking tour guides. If Russia is seen as one of the key markets, manpower training is necessary to meet demand, Thu said.
(Source: SGT) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Friday, September 28, 2012
Vietnamese culture to be promoted in Belgium
Vietnamese culture to be promoted in Belgium
The Vietnamese Embassy in Belgium will organize a series of activities in Brussels from September 29 to October 5 to promote Vietnamese culture and herald the 40th anniversary of Viet Nam-Belgium diplomatic relations in 2013.
The activities will include a ceremony to present a traditional silk costume of Vietnamese men to the Mannekin-Pis Statue, which will then be kept at Mannekin-Pis Museum.
The museum currently keeps nearly 900 kinds of national costumes of different countries.
During the Vietnamese Culture Week in Belgium, unique Hue royal cuisines will be introduced at the Royal Museum for Arts and History on September 30.
(Source: VGP) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
The Vietnamese Embassy in Belgium will organize a series of activities in Brussels from September 29 to October 5 to promote Vietnamese culture and herald the 40th anniversary of Viet Nam-Belgium diplomatic relations in 2013.
The activities will include a ceremony to present a traditional silk costume of Vietnamese men to the Mannekin-Pis Statue, which will then be kept at Mannekin-Pis Museum.
The museum currently keeps nearly 900 kinds of national costumes of different countries.
During the Vietnamese Culture Week in Belgium, unique Hue royal cuisines will be introduced at the Royal Museum for Arts and History on September 30.
(Source: VGP) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Tourism bright spot in global economy
Tourism bright spot in global economy
Global tourism has adapted well to the economic crisis, with international arrivals expected to rise by nearly four percent this year, the head of the UN World Tourism Organisation told AFP.
But Taleb Rifai, secretary general of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, warned that travel taxes, particularly against the aviation industry, risked "severely affecting" that recovery.
Tourism figures worldwide were hit hard by the 2008 global financial crisis, with the rise in international arrivals that year slowing to 2.1 percent after having jumped 6.6 percent in the previous year.
Arrivals plunged by 3.8 percent in 2009, its worst performance in 60 years, as the outbreak of the swine flu virus helped persuade cash-strapped consumers to stay home.
But international tourism arrivals bounced back the following year, rising 6.6 percent in 2010 and by 5.0 percent in 2011 even though global economic crisis had not yet ended.
"The only good news that is coming from the economy is coming from tourism," Rifai told AFP in an interview at the UNWTO's headquarters in Madrid.
"The tourism sector, against all odds, managed to adjust itself to the crisis. It's a very flexible industry," said the Jordanian executive.
But Rifai also warned: "Travel taxes are becoming a real issue for us.
"We are worried about the aviation industry because most of the taxes that are being placed on tourism now are on transport, and particularly aviation.
"It's becoming really alarming.
"We are concerned that the ability of people to fly and the competitiveness of this sector will become severely affected by that. Especially when there are still very serious possibilities of a major hike in oil prices.
"It's an issue that mainly affects traffic from Europe but after all 52 to 55 percent of world travelers are coming out of Europe. It's a global issue."
This year however, the figures are encouraging.
The number of international tourist arrivals worldwide grew by 5.0 percent during the first half of 2012 to 467 million, with the Asia-Pacific region posting the strongest gains.
"We are still expecting that we will close this year with (a rise in international tourist arrivals) at between 3.0 and 4.0 percent. I think it will be close to 4.0 percent now," said Rifai.
"That would mean that we would be in November or December hitting the historic figure of one billion international tourists."
Economic turbulence "will change the way to travel. People will look for cheaper deals -- but people will still travel."
Travel had become a part of people's lifestyle, he explained. "You can't give it up."
The Asia-Pacific region posted an 8.0 percent rise in international tourist arrivals during the first half of the year, as visitors returned to Japan a year after a tsunami and earthquake devastated parts of the country.
Europe, the most visited destination in the world, saw visitor numbers rise by 4.0 percent between January and June, with many destinations in Central and Eastern Europe posting double-digit growth.
Visitors were also returning to Egypt and Tunisia after the turmoil of the Arab spring frightened off foreigners last year, which helped fuel a rise of 7.0 percent in the number of arrivals in Africa.
"There is a clear recovery in Egypt and in Tunisia," said Rifai.
"Tourism is doing well in general, and it's probably one of the few areas that can provide some stimulus and some health to the world economy, particularly when it comes to jobs.
"With high rates of unemployment now, we can't afford to lose the jobs that tourism is providing."
The tourism sector accounts for some 235 million jobs worldwide and is responsible for around 5.0 percent of global gross domestic product, according to World Tourism Organisation figures.
"Our call, our message to world leaders is to use the potential of tourism in a better way because we don't see this happening yet," said Rifai.
The UNWTO describes itself as the United Nations agency responsible for promoting "responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism."
(Source: AFP/DTinews) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Global tourism has adapted well to the economic crisis, with international arrivals expected to rise by nearly four percent this year, the head of the UN World Tourism Organisation told AFP.
But Taleb Rifai, secretary general of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, warned that travel taxes, particularly against the aviation industry, risked "severely affecting" that recovery.
Tourism figures worldwide were hit hard by the 2008 global financial crisis, with the rise in international arrivals that year slowing to 2.1 percent after having jumped 6.6 percent in the previous year.
Arrivals plunged by 3.8 percent in 2009, its worst performance in 60 years, as the outbreak of the swine flu virus helped persuade cash-strapped consumers to stay home.
But international tourism arrivals bounced back the following year, rising 6.6 percent in 2010 and by 5.0 percent in 2011 even though global economic crisis had not yet ended.
"The only good news that is coming from the economy is coming from tourism," Rifai told AFP in an interview at the UNWTO's headquarters in Madrid.
"The tourism sector, against all odds, managed to adjust itself to the crisis. It's a very flexible industry," said the Jordanian executive.
But Rifai also warned: "Travel taxes are becoming a real issue for us.
"We are worried about the aviation industry because most of the taxes that are being placed on tourism now are on transport, and particularly aviation.
"It's becoming really alarming.
"We are concerned that the ability of people to fly and the competitiveness of this sector will become severely affected by that. Especially when there are still very serious possibilities of a major hike in oil prices.
"It's an issue that mainly affects traffic from Europe but after all 52 to 55 percent of world travelers are coming out of Europe. It's a global issue."
This year however, the figures are encouraging.
The number of international tourist arrivals worldwide grew by 5.0 percent during the first half of 2012 to 467 million, with the Asia-Pacific region posting the strongest gains.
"We are still expecting that we will close this year with (a rise in international tourist arrivals) at between 3.0 and 4.0 percent. I think it will be close to 4.0 percent now," said Rifai.
"That would mean that we would be in November or December hitting the historic figure of one billion international tourists."
Economic turbulence "will change the way to travel. People will look for cheaper deals -- but people will still travel."
Travel had become a part of people's lifestyle, he explained. "You can't give it up."
The Asia-Pacific region posted an 8.0 percent rise in international tourist arrivals during the first half of the year, as visitors returned to Japan a year after a tsunami and earthquake devastated parts of the country.
Europe, the most visited destination in the world, saw visitor numbers rise by 4.0 percent between January and June, with many destinations in Central and Eastern Europe posting double-digit growth.
Visitors were also returning to Egypt and Tunisia after the turmoil of the Arab spring frightened off foreigners last year, which helped fuel a rise of 7.0 percent in the number of arrivals in Africa.
"There is a clear recovery in Egypt and in Tunisia," said Rifai.
"Tourism is doing well in general, and it's probably one of the few areas that can provide some stimulus and some health to the world economy, particularly when it comes to jobs.
"With high rates of unemployment now, we can't afford to lose the jobs that tourism is providing."
The tourism sector accounts for some 235 million jobs worldwide and is responsible for around 5.0 percent of global gross domestic product, according to World Tourism Organisation figures.
"Our call, our message to world leaders is to use the potential of tourism in a better way because we don't see this happening yet," said Rifai.
The UNWTO describes itself as the United Nations agency responsible for promoting "responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism."
(Source: AFP/DTinews) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Air Mekong starts Tet holiday ticket sales
Air Mekong starts Tet holiday ticket sales
The Mekong Aviation JSC (Air Mekong) began selling tickets on September 20 for travel during the next Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday to anticipate the surge of demand for air travel at that time.
The airline is now selling seats on flights from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Con Dao and Phu Quoc; and from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc, Pleiku, Quy Nhon and Con Dao; as well as from Buon Ma Thuot to Vinh.
Passengers can purchase tickets online at airmekong.com.vn or at the airline’s ticket offices across the country.
Earlier, the airline launched a ‘Golden Birthday Month’ promotion to mark the second anniversary of its operations.
During the past two years, Air Mekong has safely transported over 1.3 million passengers on more than 20,000 flights, averaging 30 flights per day on 13 routes to nine domestic destinations.
(Source: Nhandan) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
The Mekong Aviation JSC (Air Mekong) began selling tickets on September 20 for travel during the next Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday to anticipate the surge of demand for air travel at that time.
The airline is now selling seats on flights from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Con Dao and Phu Quoc; and from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc, Pleiku, Quy Nhon and Con Dao; as well as from Buon Ma Thuot to Vinh.
Passengers can purchase tickets online at airmekong.com.vn or at the airline’s ticket offices across the country.
Earlier, the airline launched a ‘Golden Birthday Month’ promotion to mark the second anniversary of its operations.
During the past two years, Air Mekong has safely transported over 1.3 million passengers on more than 20,000 flights, averaging 30 flights per day on 13 routes to nine domestic destinations.
(Source: Nhandan) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Chartered flights to bring Russians to HCM city
Chartered flights to bring Russians to HCM city
Starting from next month, Russian tourists who visit the central coastal cities will be able to take chartered flights to HCMC and travel on to the Mekong Delta, said the local tour operator serving Russian guests.
Anh Duong Co. Ltd. is working with Vietnam Airlines on chartering aircraft to carry tourists from Cam Ranh International Airport in Khanh Hoa Province to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in HCMC. Anh Duong is a leading firm in terms of serving Russian tourists arriving in the central coastal cities on chartered flights.
At present, there is only one daily chartered flight bringing Russian visitors to Cam Ranh Airport. Anh Duong Co. currently only books regular flights to take tourists to HCMC for a visit and shopping.
However, during the peak season from next month until the first few months of 2013, the number of tourists will rise sharply. Therefore, Anh Duong is negotiating with Vietnam Airlines on chartering planes to carry tourists to HCMC.
Price is the only thing left to negotiate, said the company. After a long stay at the coastal resorts, Russian tourists often want to travel to HCMC for shopping.
According to Anh Duong, from October 15 to April 30 there will be three chartered flights daily bringing Russian visitors to Cam Ranh Airport. From there, tourists can travel to Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, HCMC and Ninh Thuan.
It is estimated that the total number of Russian tourist arrivals on chartered flights during this period will reach 100,000, doubling year-on-year.
China Southern Airlines on Monday increased one more flight from HCMC to Guangzhou, raising the flight frequency of this route to three return flights a day.
From Guangzhou, passengers will depart for other destinations in China or other countries. Passengers of the HCMC-Guangzhou flight are mainly tourists and businessmen.
There were around 80,000 passengers on this route last year, and the estimated number of passengers may grow by 10% this year.
China Southern Airlines is also offering a promotional airfare starting from US$610, exclusive of taxes, for passengers departing from HCMC, transit in Guangzhou and leave for Los Angeles, compared to the normal price of over US$1,000.
From October 12, the flight from HCMC to Los Angeles and transiting in Guangzhou will use the A380, the world’s largest commercial aircraft.
(Source: SGT) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Starting from next month, Russian tourists who visit the central coastal cities will be able to take chartered flights to HCMC and travel on to the Mekong Delta, said the local tour operator serving Russian guests.
Anh Duong Co. Ltd. is working with Vietnam Airlines on chartering aircraft to carry tourists from Cam Ranh International Airport in Khanh Hoa Province to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in HCMC. Anh Duong is a leading firm in terms of serving Russian tourists arriving in the central coastal cities on chartered flights.
At present, there is only one daily chartered flight bringing Russian visitors to Cam Ranh Airport. Anh Duong Co. currently only books regular flights to take tourists to HCMC for a visit and shopping.
However, during the peak season from next month until the first few months of 2013, the number of tourists will rise sharply. Therefore, Anh Duong is negotiating with Vietnam Airlines on chartering planes to carry tourists to HCMC.
Price is the only thing left to negotiate, said the company. After a long stay at the coastal resorts, Russian tourists often want to travel to HCMC for shopping.
According to Anh Duong, from October 15 to April 30 there will be three chartered flights daily bringing Russian visitors to Cam Ranh Airport. From there, tourists can travel to Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, HCMC and Ninh Thuan.
It is estimated that the total number of Russian tourist arrivals on chartered flights during this period will reach 100,000, doubling year-on-year.
China Southern Airlines on Monday increased one more flight from HCMC to Guangzhou, raising the flight frequency of this route to three return flights a day.
From Guangzhou, passengers will depart for other destinations in China or other countries. Passengers of the HCMC-Guangzhou flight are mainly tourists and businessmen.
There were around 80,000 passengers on this route last year, and the estimated number of passengers may grow by 10% this year.
China Southern Airlines is also offering a promotional airfare starting from US$610, exclusive of taxes, for passengers departing from HCMC, transit in Guangzhou and leave for Los Angeles, compared to the normal price of over US$1,000.
From October 12, the flight from HCMC to Los Angeles and transiting in Guangzhou will use the A380, the world’s largest commercial aircraft.
(Source: SGT) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Monday, September 24, 2012
Luang Prabang Airport to my guest house, Airport to my guest house
Airport to my guest house
Arriving Luang Prabang Airport, have read that the rides from airport to LP which is only a few KM is fixed $5 which is high, any recommends from vets do I barging. thanks again.
cruisinbob
1. Re: Airport to my guest house
Actually, I did try bargaining when I went the other direction, but when I went to pay - no change, and I ended up paying full fare. Why do you say $5. is high - that cheap for an American!
2. Re: Airport to my guest house
No you don't bargain. AS Helen said the going rate is $5.00
Don't be a falang kee Nok.
A savvy traveller is also a polite traveller.
3. Re: Airport to my guest house
$5 is the going rate and I understand you want to be "savvy", but you need to also understand these people need to make a living. If you think it is too much then walk as it will only take you a bit over an hour. It is sad that whilst bargaining is an accepted way within reason that we continually see tourists trying to screw the locals down to save 50 cents or so. Good luck whether you pay the rate or walk
4. Re: Airport to my guest house
No need to walk. You can go past the airport's parking lot gate and occasionally there will be a tuk tuk waiting there or across the street at these small thatch-hut restaurants. To the main heritage zone/peninsula is about 20-25,000 kip and about 12-15 minutes riding time. Less if you're with others--say 3-5.
If no tuk tuks are in sight, you'll have to be a little patient and wait until one shows up (you can pick up something cold to drink at the thatch restaurants). Tuk tuks don't normally enter the airport's parking lot and on the return trip, they drop off passengers at the same gate entrance.
If you're arriving at night after dark, then you might end up waiting a bit.
5. Re: Airport to my guest house
$5 is the going rate. Savvy travellers are ones that respect the local culture and economy and try to be fair when bargaining for goods and services.
have a great trip and don't get too caught up about 50cents here and there you might save. Think about the extra 50 cents that just might help send a child to school, buy some books and pens or perhaps put food in their mouths.
I am sure that we have all experienced watching a loud tourist try and berate a local for a 50 cent saving.
Have fun, it is a great country
6. Re: Airport to my guest house
In Chiang Mai is $4.00 from the airport to almost any hotel in an cab with A/C, so let us not say in LP it is $5.00 and I am ripping off people looking ofr a better deal, the market dictates the rate.
Luang Prabang Airport to my guest house, Airport to my guest house, Luang Prabang Airport to my guest house, Airport to my guest house
Arriving Luang Prabang Airport, have read that the rides from airport to LP which is only a few KM is fixed $5 which is high, any recommends from vets do I barging. thanks again.
cruisinbob
1. Re: Airport to my guest house
Actually, I did try bargaining when I went the other direction, but when I went to pay - no change, and I ended up paying full fare. Why do you say $5. is high - that cheap for an American!
2. Re: Airport to my guest house
No you don't bargain. AS Helen said the going rate is $5.00
Don't be a falang kee Nok.
A savvy traveller is also a polite traveller.
3. Re: Airport to my guest house
$5 is the going rate and I understand you want to be "savvy", but you need to also understand these people need to make a living. If you think it is too much then walk as it will only take you a bit over an hour. It is sad that whilst bargaining is an accepted way within reason that we continually see tourists trying to screw the locals down to save 50 cents or so. Good luck whether you pay the rate or walk
4. Re: Airport to my guest house
No need to walk. You can go past the airport's parking lot gate and occasionally there will be a tuk tuk waiting there or across the street at these small thatch-hut restaurants. To the main heritage zone/peninsula is about 20-25,000 kip and about 12-15 minutes riding time. Less if you're with others--say 3-5.
If no tuk tuks are in sight, you'll have to be a little patient and wait until one shows up (you can pick up something cold to drink at the thatch restaurants). Tuk tuks don't normally enter the airport's parking lot and on the return trip, they drop off passengers at the same gate entrance.
If you're arriving at night after dark, then you might end up waiting a bit.
5. Re: Airport to my guest house
$5 is the going rate. Savvy travellers are ones that respect the local culture and economy and try to be fair when bargaining for goods and services.
have a great trip and don't get too caught up about 50cents here and there you might save. Think about the extra 50 cents that just might help send a child to school, buy some books and pens or perhaps put food in their mouths.
I am sure that we have all experienced watching a loud tourist try and berate a local for a 50 cent saving.
Have fun, it is a great country
6. Re: Airport to my guest house
In Chiang Mai is $4.00 from the airport to almost any hotel in an cab with A/C, so let us not say in LP it is $5.00 and I am ripping off people looking ofr a better deal, the market dictates the rate.
Luang Prabang Airport to my guest house, Airport to my guest house, Luang Prabang Airport to my guest house, Airport to my guest house
Taxi in Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang Airport Transfers
Luang Prabang Airport Transfers
Green and friendly, Green Path Transfers is a global airport transfers service with a difference. They have unique coverage, servicing destinations off-the-beaten-path where others simply don't go. Yet they ensure that they still also cover all major airports.
In keeping with their vision to help build a sustainable travel industry, Green Path Transfers is on a mission to go green. They started the journey by partnering with as many of the best green local airport transfer companies as they could around the world. All of these companies have a commitment to zero or very low carbon emissions. Whether eco taxis, or green limos, or shared shuttles running on biofuels, they have ground transportation to suit any taste or budget, all with an eco-friendly focus. For those locations where green airport transfer partners are not available, they offset 100% of the carbon emissions generated. As well, they have put in place a range of incentives and support to move all our airport transportation partners toward a greener future.
Taxi in Luang Prabang ”
Hello does anyone have any information on taxi services in Luang Prabang? I am looking for a company that covers airport collections.
Thanks in advance
======
1. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
I'm not quite sure what you mean by "airport collection" but when you arrive at the airport in LP you can buy a "ticket" - US5 if I remember correctly - and the taxi will take you to wherever you need to go. You could also hook up with someone, if you want, to split the cost. Hope that helps
2. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
Thanks for your fast response, I am looking to contact taxi or transport companies directly.
3. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
Why are you looking to do that? Your hotel can arrange to pick you up or as posted above you can get a taxi from the airport.
Green and friendly, Green Path Transfers is a global airport transfers service with a difference. They have unique coverage, servicing destinations off-the-beaten-path where others simply don't go. Yet they ensure that they still also cover all major airports.
In keeping with their vision to help build a sustainable travel industry, Green Path Transfers is on a mission to go green. They started the journey by partnering with as many of the best green local airport transfer companies as they could around the world. All of these companies have a commitment to zero or very low carbon emissions. Whether eco taxis, or green limos, or shared shuttles running on biofuels, they have ground transportation to suit any taste or budget, all with an eco-friendly focus. For those locations where green airport transfer partners are not available, they offset 100% of the carbon emissions generated. As well, they have put in place a range of incentives and support to move all our airport transportation partners toward a greener future.
Taxi in Luang Prabang ”
Hello does anyone have any information on taxi services in Luang Prabang? I am looking for a company that covers airport collections.
Thanks in advance
======
1. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
I'm not quite sure what you mean by "airport collection" but when you arrive at the airport in LP you can buy a "ticket" - US5 if I remember correctly - and the taxi will take you to wherever you need to go. You could also hook up with someone, if you want, to split the cost. Hope that helps
2. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
Thanks for your fast response, I am looking to contact taxi or transport companies directly.
3. Re: Taxi in Luang Prabang
Why are you looking to do that? Your hotel can arrange to pick you up or as posted above you can get a taxi from the airport.
Luang Prabang Airport Transfers ?
Luang Prabang Airport Transfers
Book your eco-friendly Luang Prabang Airport Transfer service by using the search box above. Throughout various locations around the world, we offer:
Airport shuttles
Holiday taxis
Private limousines
Eco-taxis
Hybrid taxis
Hybrid limousines
Bio-fuel shuttles
Our prices are also consistently lower than those of our competitors. So what are you waiting for? Do some good for Mother Nature, do some good for your wallet, and book one of our Luang Prabang Airport Transfers today!
=====
Tuk tuk into town is nowhere near 15-20mins ride! Try about 5-7 mins max. You can pay the minivan service (as noted 50,000kip or $6USD) and it's ridiculously easy to walk 100m to outside the gates and grab a tuk tuk. If you have some Lao and good negotiation skills you may be able to get a ride for 20,000kip (but they may not take USD), or 30-40,000 if you're not strong on either!
Book your eco-friendly Luang Prabang Airport Transfer service by using the search box above. Throughout various locations around the world, we offer:
Airport shuttles
Holiday taxis
Private limousines
Eco-taxis
Hybrid taxis
Hybrid limousines
Bio-fuel shuttles
Our prices are also consistently lower than those of our competitors. So what are you waiting for? Do some good for Mother Nature, do some good for your wallet, and book one of our Luang Prabang Airport Transfers today!
=====
Tuk tuk into town is nowhere near 15-20mins ride! Try about 5-7 mins max. You can pay the minivan service (as noted 50,000kip or $6USD) and it's ridiculously easy to walk 100m to outside the gates and grab a tuk tuk. If you have some Lao and good negotiation skills you may be able to get a ride for 20,000kip (but they may not take USD), or 30-40,000 if you're not strong on either!
How to get an airport taxi in Luangprabang?
How to get an airport taxi in Luangprabang?
Both Vientiane and Luang Prabang have international airports. Both have taxis (Vientiane) or tuk tuks (Luang Prabang) waiting to take passengers after each incoming flight. Prices are set, and placards advertise what they are. From the airport to the centre of Vientiane town costs $5 and this small car will hold a maximum four passengers or three if you have even a moderate amount of luggage. If you’re really struggling for cash it is often possible to go out of the airport to the highway and flag down a passing share tuk tuk, which will cost around $2-3 per person, but the hassle, time and energy required make this an option only for those on the tightest of budgets. In Luang Prabang the only option is to take a tuk tuk to town at the set price of 50,000 kip ($5). These will take up to 5 passengers and the drivers will often do the work of finding other passengers if you are alone.
====>>>
Tuk-tuks are your best and cheapest bet. It's only a 15 to 20 minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport to the town centre. If you know what hotel you are staying at, the driver will drop you at the door.
Probably around 50,000 kip.
Both Vientiane and Luang Prabang have international airports. Both have taxis (Vientiane) or tuk tuks (Luang Prabang) waiting to take passengers after each incoming flight. Prices are set, and placards advertise what they are. From the airport to the centre of Vientiane town costs $5 and this small car will hold a maximum four passengers or three if you have even a moderate amount of luggage. If you’re really struggling for cash it is often possible to go out of the airport to the highway and flag down a passing share tuk tuk, which will cost around $2-3 per person, but the hassle, time and energy required make this an option only for those on the tightest of budgets. In Luang Prabang the only option is to take a tuk tuk to town at the set price of 50,000 kip ($5). These will take up to 5 passengers and the drivers will often do the work of finding other passengers if you are alone.
====>>>
Tuk-tuks are your best and cheapest bet. It's only a 15 to 20 minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport to the town centre. If you know what hotel you are staying at, the driver will drop you at the door.
Probably around 50,000 kip.
Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel ?
Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Dear all,
I have been quoted 22 US $for transfer from LP airport to Shinta Mani hotel located in Phou Meo,Thai Lao Friendship Road,Luang Prabang.
I know this is outside center op LP but is the price too high?
Any idea how much would cost to get this hotel if I arrange taxi ride myself in the airport? Arrival after 6pm.
Thanks for the help!
=======
1. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 10:34 AM
$7US is the standard price for transfer by A/C minivan from Airport to anywhere in LP. Walk outside terminal and transfer desk on your right If you want to walk ovet to the gate which is to your right you might get aTuk Tuk for $6. What yiou have been quoted is ridiculous.
======
2. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 11:06 AM
We paid 50,000kip ($6 something) from Luang Prabang Airport to our hotel in the centre of town. Dead easy, taxi counter is, as bigfish says, right outside the door, can't miss it. Taxi's will be available whenever a flight arrives regardless of the time.
Enjoy Luang Prabang
helen
======
3. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 12:00 PM
Hi,
I think 50,000 kip is the standard price these days from the airport, so a lot cheaper than the price you've been quoted
cheers
======
4. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 2:01 PM
Thanks everyone!
Luang Prabang Forum / http://www.tripadvisor.com
Dear all,
I have been quoted 22 US $for transfer from LP airport to Shinta Mani hotel located in Phou Meo,Thai Lao Friendship Road,Luang Prabang.
I know this is outside center op LP but is the price too high?
Any idea how much would cost to get this hotel if I arrange taxi ride myself in the airport? Arrival after 6pm.
Thanks for the help!
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1. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 10:34 AM
$7US is the standard price for transfer by A/C minivan from Airport to anywhere in LP. Walk outside terminal and transfer desk on your right If you want to walk ovet to the gate which is to your right you might get aTuk Tuk for $6. What yiou have been quoted is ridiculous.
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2. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 11:06 AM
We paid 50,000kip ($6 something) from Luang Prabang Airport to our hotel in the centre of town. Dead easy, taxi counter is, as bigfish says, right outside the door, can't miss it. Taxi's will be available whenever a flight arrives regardless of the time.
Enjoy Luang Prabang
helen
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3. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 12:00 PM
Hi,
I think 50,000 kip is the standard price these days from the airport, so a lot cheaper than the price you've been quoted
cheers
======
4. Re: Taxi price from Luang Prabang airport to Shinta Mani Hotel
Jul 20, 2011, 2:01 PM
Thanks everyone!
Luang Prabang Forum / http://www.tripadvisor.com
Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015
Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015
With tourism promotion activities being conducted in Japan until next Tuesday, Vietnam has officially kicked off the campaign of attracting one million tourists arrivals from Japan in 2015, doubling that of last year.
The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) and travel firms are organizing a number of tourism promotion programs and road shows in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Besides, they will attend JATA Tourism Forum & Travel Showcase 2012 and work with the Vietnam-Japan Tourism Cooperation Committee on specific promotion activities.
Previously, the Vietnam Festival 2012 in Japan was held late last week in Tokyo by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan and relevant agencies of the two countries.
“We are performing several activities in Japan and have officially kicked off the campaign of attracting one million Japanese tourist arrivals to Vietnam in 2015,” Mr. Nguyen Van Tuan, head of VNAT, told the Daily on Wednesday.
Japan is currently the third largest market of Vietnam’s tourism after China and South Korea, and Vietnam is offering visa-free entry for Japanese passport holders for stays of no more than 15 days.
There were nearly 482,000 Japan tourist arrivals in Vietnam last year, up 8.9% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the number in the year’s first eight months was over 376,000 arrivals, or a rise of 18.9% from the same period last year.
(Source: SGT) , Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015, Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015, Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015
With tourism promotion activities being conducted in Japan until next Tuesday, Vietnam has officially kicked off the campaign of attracting one million tourists arrivals from Japan in 2015, doubling that of last year.
The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) and travel firms are organizing a number of tourism promotion programs and road shows in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Besides, they will attend JATA Tourism Forum & Travel Showcase 2012 and work with the Vietnam-Japan Tourism Cooperation Committee on specific promotion activities.
Previously, the Vietnam Festival 2012 in Japan was held late last week in Tokyo by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan and relevant agencies of the two countries.
“We are performing several activities in Japan and have officially kicked off the campaign of attracting one million Japanese tourist arrivals to Vietnam in 2015,” Mr. Nguyen Van Tuan, head of VNAT, told the Daily on Wednesday.
Japan is currently the third largest market of Vietnam’s tourism after China and South Korea, and Vietnam is offering visa-free entry for Japanese passport holders for stays of no more than 15 days.
There were nearly 482,000 Japan tourist arrivals in Vietnam last year, up 8.9% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the number in the year’s first eight months was over 376,000 arrivals, or a rise of 18.9% from the same period last year.
(Source: SGT) , Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015, Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015, Vietnam looks to one million Japanese tourists in 2015
Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year
Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year
The central city of Hue will provide a free wi-fi service by the end of this year, according to the Thua Thien – Hue provincial People’s Committee.
When completed, Hue will become the second tourist destination, after Hoi An, to provide a free wi-fi service for visitors and local people.
The project, partly sourced from the provincial budget, is to upgrade the tourism infrastructure and promote the city. The Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group will be the service provider.
In the short term, wireless internet transmitters will be installed at tourist spots, airports, train stations and ports across the locality.
(Source: VNA), Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year, Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year, Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year
The central city of Hue will provide a free wi-fi service by the end of this year, according to the Thua Thien – Hue provincial People’s Committee.
When completed, Hue will become the second tourist destination, after Hoi An, to provide a free wi-fi service for visitors and local people.
The project, partly sourced from the provincial budget, is to upgrade the tourism infrastructure and promote the city. The Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group will be the service provider.
In the short term, wireless internet transmitters will be installed at tourist spots, airports, train stations and ports across the locality.
(Source: VNA), Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year, Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year, Hue to provide free wi-fi service this year
Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage
Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage
A number of events beginning later this month will celebrate the 750th anniversary of Thien Truong, the old capital of the Tran dynasty (1225-1400) in the northern province of Nam Dinh.
A ceremony will be held in Nam Dinh city on October 5, including a military march and public parade, followed by a ceremony in which the Ho Chi Minh Order will be conferred by the Prime Minister, recognising Nam Dinh as a Category One city.
The city's Tran Temple will also be officially recognised in the ceremony as an historical and architectural site, while Pho Minh Pagoda will be designated a special national relic.
A performance and fireworks show will take place that night, with the whole celebration throughout the day to be broadcast live on Vietnam Television's VTV1 channel.
As recorded by Ngo Sy Lien, in the Dai Viet Su Ky Toan Thu (Complete Annals of the Dai Viet), the Tran dynasty in 1225 took power from the Ly dynasty. In 1239, King Tran Thai Tong, whose birthplace was Tuc Mac village, Thien Truong district, now the city of Nam Dinh, ordered a royal complex built there, called Tuc Mac, and a temple to worship ancestors, all of which were upgraded into the Thien Truong Palace complex in 1262. The complex, consisting of Trung Quang Palace and Trung Hoa Palace, served as a special administrative and political centre to the south of the kingdom's capital city of Thang Long ( Hanoi ).
During three wars against Mongol invaders in the 13th century, Tran kings stayed at the Thien Truong complex, where they stored provisions and trained the army. Under succeeding dynasties, the area played a key role in broadening the plain near the sea, reclaiming the land that makes up today's fertile Hong (Red) River delta plain.
In addition to its important place in the country's political history, the area has also been famed for its talented people and learning traditions. At the royal exam in 1247, 13-year-old local Nguyen Hien won the highest score and became one of the youngest to receive the doctoral title in the feudal period. In 1281, the Tran dynasty built an institute in the area to recruit and train intellectuals. Since then, the locality has maintained the tradition of learning, nurturing such talents as Kings Tran Thai Tong, Tran Thanh Tong and Tran Nhan Tong, General Tran Quoc Tuan, and 20th-century revolutionaries like Truong Chinh, Tran Van Lan, Le Duc Tho, Tong Van Tran and Nguyen Co Thach.
In the 20th century, Nam Dinh was a cradle for nationalist and workers' movements, and locals made considerable contributions to the war against the US and the cause of building socialism.
An exhibition on the socio-economic development of the area will open on Sept 25 at Vi Xuyen Park in the city. A handicrafts and tourism fair will also kick off that night at Hoa Binh Square , and a bonsai exhibition gathering decorative plants by artisans from all over the Hong (Red) River region will open near the Tran Temple.
A few days later, on Sept. 29, the city will host an international conference on the culture of Mother God worship in Vietnam and Asia. The next day, an antiques exhibition will be held at Nam Dinh Museum.
(Source: VNA)
Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage, Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage, Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage
A number of events beginning later this month will celebrate the 750th anniversary of Thien Truong, the old capital of the Tran dynasty (1225-1400) in the northern province of Nam Dinh.
A ceremony will be held in Nam Dinh city on October 5, including a military march and public parade, followed by a ceremony in which the Ho Chi Minh Order will be conferred by the Prime Minister, recognising Nam Dinh as a Category One city.
The city's Tran Temple will also be officially recognised in the ceremony as an historical and architectural site, while Pho Minh Pagoda will be designated a special national relic.
A performance and fireworks show will take place that night, with the whole celebration throughout the day to be broadcast live on Vietnam Television's VTV1 channel.
As recorded by Ngo Sy Lien, in the Dai Viet Su Ky Toan Thu (Complete Annals of the Dai Viet), the Tran dynasty in 1225 took power from the Ly dynasty. In 1239, King Tran Thai Tong, whose birthplace was Tuc Mac village, Thien Truong district, now the city of Nam Dinh, ordered a royal complex built there, called Tuc Mac, and a temple to worship ancestors, all of which were upgraded into the Thien Truong Palace complex in 1262. The complex, consisting of Trung Quang Palace and Trung Hoa Palace, served as a special administrative and political centre to the south of the kingdom's capital city of Thang Long ( Hanoi ).
During three wars against Mongol invaders in the 13th century, Tran kings stayed at the Thien Truong complex, where they stored provisions and trained the army. Under succeeding dynasties, the area played a key role in broadening the plain near the sea, reclaiming the land that makes up today's fertile Hong (Red) River delta plain.
In addition to its important place in the country's political history, the area has also been famed for its talented people and learning traditions. At the royal exam in 1247, 13-year-old local Nguyen Hien won the highest score and became one of the youngest to receive the doctoral title in the feudal period. In 1281, the Tran dynasty built an institute in the area to recruit and train intellectuals. Since then, the locality has maintained the tradition of learning, nurturing such talents as Kings Tran Thai Tong, Tran Thanh Tong and Tran Nhan Tong, General Tran Quoc Tuan, and 20th-century revolutionaries like Truong Chinh, Tran Van Lan, Le Duc Tho, Tong Van Tran and Nguyen Co Thach.
In the 20th century, Nam Dinh was a cradle for nationalist and workers' movements, and locals made considerable contributions to the war against the US and the cause of building socialism.
An exhibition on the socio-economic development of the area will open on Sept 25 at Vi Xuyen Park in the city. A handicrafts and tourism fair will also kick off that night at Hoa Binh Square , and a bonsai exhibition gathering decorative plants by artisans from all over the Hong (Red) River region will open near the Tran Temple.
A few days later, on Sept. 29, the city will host an international conference on the culture of Mother God worship in Vietnam and Asia. The next day, an antiques exhibition will be held at Nam Dinh Museum.
(Source: VNA)
Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage, Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage, Nam Dinh to celebrate royal heritage
Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom
Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom
Cruise tourism in Vietnam is growing in the context that this segment begins to boom in Southeast Asia.
Phan Xuan Anh, chairman of Viet Excursions, said cruise lines from the U.S. and Europe are promoting new destinations in Asia, including Vietnam. Therefore, the company has recorded a rise of 1.5 times in the number of orders for the tourism season from November 2012 to April 2013, the best growth so far.
Viet Excursions not only caters to cruise ships arriving in Vietnam, but also those visiting Cambodia. From Cambodia, tourists can take chartered flights to Thailand, and then travel to Singapore.
Meanwhile, Saigontourist estimated the company would welcome 130,000 international cruise tourists this year, rising 25-30% against 2011. Along with the cruise ships coming from Asian countries, Saigontourist is receiving cruise ships from Europe and many international river cruise ships.
In the next tourism season, from November 2012 to March 2013, Saigontourist will welcome some 80,000 tourist arrivals, mostly those coming from China on cruise ships operated by StarCruises.
Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom. Large cruise ships in the world have made presence in the region, dropping anchors in Singapore, one of the regional countries with strength in cruise tourism.
This is informed in a press release of the division for ASEAN cruise tourism under ASEAN Tourism on the occasion of the two-day conference Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific opening on Monday in Singapore.
Large cruise ships such as Costa Deliziosa of Costa Cruises, or those operated by Royal Caribbean and Voyager of the Seas choose Singapore as the main port from now to 2013. Other ships of Costa Cruises and those of StarCruises have already chosen Singapore as the main port.
They are also expanding the port network into Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, and Malacca in Malaysia; Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui in Thailand; Bali and Komodo in Indonesia; and HCMC, Danang and Halong Bay in Vietnam.
(Source: SGT) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com,Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom ,Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom
Cruise tourism in Vietnam is growing in the context that this segment begins to boom in Southeast Asia.
Phan Xuan Anh, chairman of Viet Excursions, said cruise lines from the U.S. and Europe are promoting new destinations in Asia, including Vietnam. Therefore, the company has recorded a rise of 1.5 times in the number of orders for the tourism season from November 2012 to April 2013, the best growth so far.
Viet Excursions not only caters to cruise ships arriving in Vietnam, but also those visiting Cambodia. From Cambodia, tourists can take chartered flights to Thailand, and then travel to Singapore.
Meanwhile, Saigontourist estimated the company would welcome 130,000 international cruise tourists this year, rising 25-30% against 2011. Along with the cruise ships coming from Asian countries, Saigontourist is receiving cruise ships from Europe and many international river cruise ships.
In the next tourism season, from November 2012 to March 2013, Saigontourist will welcome some 80,000 tourist arrivals, mostly those coming from China on cruise ships operated by StarCruises.
Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom. Large cruise ships in the world have made presence in the region, dropping anchors in Singapore, one of the regional countries with strength in cruise tourism.
This is informed in a press release of the division for ASEAN cruise tourism under ASEAN Tourism on the occasion of the two-day conference Cruise Shipping Asia-Pacific opening on Monday in Singapore.
Large cruise ships such as Costa Deliziosa of Costa Cruises, or those operated by Royal Caribbean and Voyager of the Seas choose Singapore as the main port from now to 2013. Other ships of Costa Cruises and those of StarCruises have already chosen Singapore as the main port.
They are also expanding the port network into Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, and Malacca in Malaysia; Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui in Thailand; Bali and Komodo in Indonesia; and HCMC, Danang and Halong Bay in Vietnam.
(Source: SGT) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com,Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom ,Cruise tourism in Southeast Asia begins to boom
Exhibition introduces Vietnamese dragons
Exhibition introduces Vietnamese dragons
Images of dragons and fairies captured at Vietnam’s communal houses are being exhibited for the first time in Paris, France as part of the 16th “Foreign Cultures Week”, starting on September 21.
The images were taken in 300 out of 600 communal houses in the Red river delta in North Vietnam, according to the organisers, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Vietnam University of Fine Arts and the Centre on Vietnamese Culture in France.
Speaking at the exhibition, painter Le Van Anh, Director of the Vietnam University of Fine Arts said as a symbol of a village and pride of the Vietnamese community, communal houses hold many artistic values, with the noted one being dragon-fairy carvings.
Dragon is a symbolic creature in the folklore and mythology in Vietnam as according to an ancient creation myth, Vietnamese people are descended from a dragon and a fairy.
For Vietnamese people, the dragon represents the emperor as well as the prosperity and power of the nation. It brings rain, which is essential for agriculture.
Ambassador to France Duong Van Quang noted that the event depicts part of the Vietnamese culture, adding that this kind of exhibition needs to be expanded to promote the country’s culture to international friends.
A performance, themed “Vietnam - a Dragon-Fairy Country” also took place as part of the opening ceremony.
(Source: VNA) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
Images of dragons and fairies captured at Vietnam’s communal houses are being exhibited for the first time in Paris, France as part of the 16th “Foreign Cultures Week”, starting on September 21.
The images were taken in 300 out of 600 communal houses in the Red river delta in North Vietnam, according to the organisers, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Vietnam University of Fine Arts and the Centre on Vietnamese Culture in France.
Speaking at the exhibition, painter Le Van Anh, Director of the Vietnam University of Fine Arts said as a symbol of a village and pride of the Vietnamese community, communal houses hold many artistic values, with the noted one being dragon-fairy carvings.
Dragon is a symbolic creature in the folklore and mythology in Vietnam as according to an ancient creation myth, Vietnamese people are descended from a dragon and a fairy.
For Vietnamese people, the dragon represents the emperor as well as the prosperity and power of the nation. It brings rain, which is essential for agriculture.
Ambassador to France Duong Van Quang noted that the event depicts part of the Vietnamese culture, adding that this kind of exhibition needs to be expanded to promote the country’s culture to international friends.
A performance, themed “Vietnam - a Dragon-Fairy Country” also took place as part of the opening ceremony.
(Source: VNA) / http://www.vietnamtourism.com
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