Thứ Tư, 3 tháng 8, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update August 3

India’s August break will boost travel
MUMBAI, 3 August 2022: With India’s Raksha Bandhan* festival falling on Thursday and Friday, 11 and 12 August, followed by Independence Day on Monday, the second week of August presents Indian travellers with an extended five-day window to book a holiday getaway.
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Da Nang-Ly Son high-speed boat temporarily halted until late 2022
The Phu Quoc High Speed Boat JSC (Phu Quoc Express) has issued a written request to the Da Nang government to temporarily suspend the operation of the Da Nang – Ly Son inland waterway tourism route from now until late 2022 due to a shortage of passengers.
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Vinh, Hue among cheapest travel destinations for Australians
Australian newspaper The News Daily has listed Vinh and Hue towns in central Vietnam among budget-friendly destinations for Australian travelers amid rising living and airfare costs.
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Bangkok Airways announces resumption of flights to Siem Reap, Yangon, Da Nang
Bangkok Airways has announced the resumption of its direct daily flights on the Bangkok-Siem Reap (Cambodia) and Bangkok-Yangon (Myanmar) routes from 1 August, 2022, and the Bangkok-Da Nang (Vietnam) route from 1 September, 2022.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update August 3 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Năm, 28 tháng 7, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 28th July

Vietnam among top destinations for American retirees
Economical living costs and diverse travel experiences make Vietnam one of the eight most ideal countries for Americans to move to after retirement, according to Travel+Leisure magazine.
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Nature retreat reopens on 1 August
Anurak Community Lodge, an award-winning ecotourism experience at Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani, has reopened after two years of Covid-related uncertainty.
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Airport tax to rise across Indonesia
Indonesia airport authorities are increasing the passenger service charge (PSC) at 19 airports to keep up with services amid rising operational costs.
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Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam to be the destinations for High-class tours by private jet
A series of 2023 round-the-world tours by private jet of TCS has been out, including fancy experiences around the world and also in Vietnam.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 28th July first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Hai, 25 tháng 7, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 26 July

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 26 July

CAAV asks for suspension of priority check-in service at airports
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has issued a document asking airlines to suspend fee collection for priority check-in service at airports.
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Da Lat to welcome first international flight after over two years
A charter flight from South Korea is scheduled to arrive in Da Lat Saturday night, marking the first international service to the Central Highlands tourist town after over two years.
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Emirates adds flight to Gatwick
Emirates will increase flights to and from London Gatwick airport with the addition of a third daily flight, effective 27 July until 3 August 2022.
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Langkawi in T+L top islands list
Langkawi, a cluster of 99 islands off the coast of Kedah in Malaysia, was recently named one of the top island destinations in Southeast Asia according to Travel + Leisure.
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First tourists arrive in Phuket on South Korea’s Jin Air airlines
Phuket welcomed the first flight of South Korean tourists from Jin Air airlines since Covid-19 restrictions eased. Phuket International Airport staff greeted the 179 passengers as they arrived at the international terminal. They had flown directly from Seoul to Phuket.

 

The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 26 July first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Sáu, 22 tháng 7, 2022

Top 5 unique things you can do in Laos post Covid-19

How long have you been on the last trip you visit Laos? In Southeast Asia, Laos still remains one of the most pristine natural and culturally rich countries we recommend you to explore post-Covid-19.  Laos's relaxing and laidback atmosphere provides the perfect setting if you want to escape away from it all. In this article, we want to add more new experiences to visit in Laos which helps you to add more the reason to visit Laos again and again.

1.Get a new – look Vang Vieng from above

Ever wondered how Vang Vieng would look from the air? By riding the hot air balloon, you can catch the true beauty of Vang Vieng with your eyes from above. We are sure, you will regret it if you miss it. Unlike other tourist destinations famous for their hot air balloon rides, Vang Vieng’s airspace is not overcrowded with balloons. The best time to get the gorgeous views of the town is near dawn and dusk when the rising and setting sun paints the sky a soft golden hue

2. Bolaven Plateau by vintage Jeep

Over a kilometre above sea level, the Bolaven Plateau is your chance to experience a totally different Laotian landscape – where cool temperatures, volcanic soil, and plentiful rain conspire to create a wonderfully rich and fertile land perfect for growing coffee, cassava, bananas, tea, and cardamom.
Where most tourists follow a well-worn circuit around the plateau’s edge, we like to plunge right through the middle – bouncing along rugged dirt roads in an open-top 4×4, stopping at Katu minority villages famed for their beaded, hand-woven textiles, exploring hidden caves used during the Secret War, and cooling off with frequent dips under crashing waterfalls.

3. Visit Carol Cassidy’s workshop in Vientiane

There are few people better placed to introduce you to traditional and contemporary Lao textile culture than Carol Cassidy.
Carol first came to Laos as a textile expert with the UN Development Programme in 1989, and she unwittingly stumbled upon what she describes as “a weaver’s paradise”. Years later, she’s still here — and she now works with 40 Lao artisans to produce woven wall hangings, scarves, shawls and fabric, all using traditional methods. Touring Carol’s workshop is a rare chance to meet a real insider, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask her about her experiences over cocktails and canapés in the garden.

4. Dine at Nava Mekong Boat Cruise in Luang Prabang

How about a dining experience while floating past the mesmerising Luang Prabang landscape? Well, the Nava Mekong lunch and dinner boat cruises offer the same with Lao cuisines that are a blend of simple flavours added to the spicy meat, fish laap or sticky rice. This boat cruise transports the travellers to a local village for taking a further glimpse into Lao culture and interact with the folklore.

 

5. Authentic Lao massage in Luang Prabang

It’s true that Laos’ neighbours are the ones that are much more famous for their massages, but Lao massages are an entirely different experience. If you’re looking for a typical relaxing massage in Luang Prabang, then don’t look for an authentic Lao massage, but rather ask for an oil massage.
An authentic massage is not as relaxing as other types of massages, but rather it’s meant to be a therapeutic experience that releases tension by focusing on key pressure points. These massages are done while wearing sarongs or loose clothes. It is important to note, however, that you might feel pain or discomfort at first. There are several spas in Luang Prabang, but be wary of some of the cheaper ones, because you usually get what you pay for. Some locals might not pay as much heed to hygiene as much as they should, so make sure to find a place that appears reputable and clean.

 

Laos entry rules after Covid-19

If you’re fully vaccinated, you’ll need to present proof. You don’t need a booster but you must have completed the required recommended dose of a primary vaccine schedule which usually means two doses, or in the case of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, one dose. The final required dose should have been administered at least 14 days before departure.
If you’re unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated, you’ll need to take a pre-departure PCR or antigen COVID-19 test within 48 hours of departure and present the negative result upon arrival.

All test and vaccine certificates must be uploaded to this mobile application before travel.
You’ll also be required to take out medical insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment, just in case you contract the virus on your trip, in which case you’d be responsible for the costs of your own medical treatment.

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination and testing requirements.
Electronic visa applications for Laos are now open and eligible travelers can apply online. The Laos tourism board said approval usually takes about one business day, but it’s still a good idea to apply well in advance of your trip.

Laos-Reopening-Infographic-1-764x1050

Plan to book the holiday to Laos?

Do you want to visit Laos? Let’s plan your holiday to visit Laos by sending your enquiry to our local travel experts in Laos at sales@luxtraveldmc.com.  If you have from 2 weeks to 3 weeks, we recommend you a trip to the combination Laos with other countries in Indochina such as Vietnam and Cambodia.  Need any free advice, you may speak to our travel experts at wwww.luxtraveldmc.com. They will organize a customized holiday to Indochina upon your request.

The post Top 5 unique things you can do in Laos post Covid-19 first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Tư, 20 tháng 7, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 July

Rough sea again hits ferry services to Phu Quoc
All ferry services to and from Phu Quoc Island were suspended for the second time in a week Wednesday due to rough seas.

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Thailand’s iconic Maya Bay to temporarily close again
Thailand’s iconic Maya Bay – located on Koh Pi Pi Leh in Krabi province – will be off-limits to tourists for the duration of August and September for another period of environmental restoration. The bay, made famous by “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, reopened to tourists on January 1 after a three-and-a-half year closure.
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Thailand to Charge New Tourism Entry Fee to All Arrivals
A proposed tourism fee of THB 300 to be charged directly to arrivals in Thailand is back on the table, according to the country’s tourism ministry.
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More Manila-Cambodia flights starting September
Passengers of the Philippines will have more options going to Cambodia as flag carrier Philippine Airlines will mount additional flights from Manila beginning September 1.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 21 July first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

Thứ Ba, 19 tháng 7, 2022

Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 18 July

Bhutan set for September reopening with new tourism approach
Travellers to Bhutan will pay a much higher Sustainable Development Fee when the destination reopens to international visitors on September 23, but freedom to engage tourism services directly without restrictions of a Minimum Daily Package Rate will be granted.
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Wego partners with Indonesia to drive interest in Bali
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and online travel marketplace Wego have combined forces to help revive tourism to Bali, via the latter’s vast user base in the Middle East and North Africa.

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LaoSafe initiative puts Laos on the road to recovery
To build international visitor confidence in the destination, Laos has implemented LaoSafe, a nationwide initiative designed to create a world-class health and hygiene system within the tourism and hospitality industry.

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Vietjet to start 9 services from Vietnam tourism hubs to India
Budget airline Vietjet Air has announced the launch of new services to three Indian cities from Hanoi, HCMC and Da Nang.
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Hanoi is among the world’s most ideal cycling destinations: Booking.com
Hanoi, famous for its centuries-old temples and French colonial buildings, is one of the world’s six best places to explore by bicycle, according to a survey of travelers.
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The post Southeast Asia Travel News | Update 18 July first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.

A mesmerizing trip to Phu Quoc Island City

Summer is the best time for a family vacation and my family just had our first, and greatest, trip together, to Phu Quoc Island City, after Covid 19.

Hello guys, my name is Pham Duc Minh from Nguyen Binh Khiem secondary school, Hanoi. I don’t know how your summer holiday is, but my summer holiday has been memorable moments on a family vacation to the Phu Quoc Islands for 4 days and 3 nights, and there are a few things I particularly like about the beach holiday with my grandmother, parents, aunt, older brother Khai and younger brother Khoi. There were 6 people on this trip and I wanted to explore and eat all the Phu Quoc specialties with them during this holiday.


Our first family trip after Covid 19 was about 4 days and 3 nights to the Southeastern Island, Phu Quoc, the largest island in Vietnam, similar to the size of Singapore Island. We chose Phu Quoc for this trip as a new destination for the good food, forest, sea, culture, nature, and magical sunset moments. We caught the flight to Phu Quoc very early in the morning to avoid crowds and have more time in Phu Quoc so we had to wake up at 03:30 AM. We didn’t go there alone, but with my family and relatives, at 4:15 AM, to catch the first flight from Hanoi to Phu Quoc from Noi Bai Airport. We went to the counter for check-in registration and came inside the airport to the waiting lounge before boarding. We had a light breakfast at the airport at 5:30 AM in the lounge just before we boarded the plane and waited for the plane to take off. It took us 2 hours to fly from Hanoi to Phu Quoc Island City.

The first specialty city, floating restaurant, an eco-resort in the West

When I arrived at Phu Quoc Airport, our driver picked us up with our names and drove to the resort with a city tour on the way. We ate seafood vermicelli, “Bun Quay” which is a Phu Quoc specialty, in a local restaurant. After that, we went to the south of the island where the Mediterranean houses, buildings, and monuments are inspired by Italian architecture and are developed by Sun Group. My mother took a lot of photos, and we walked around sightseeing.

After visiting the Mediterranean region, we moved to the wild Star Beach to see the starfish and visit the beautiful, sandy beach and swim. After that, we went to Ho Quoc Pagoda to praise Buddha and wish for good health, good luck, and more money. Then we drove to Ham Ninh floating fishing village in the East where we enjoyed lunch at the floating restaurant and saw the beautiful beach, sea and tides, and coconut palms. This place is unique, peaceful, and beautiful. There, we ate a lot of seafood. All of it was very fresh from the sea, things like shrimp, fish, squid, and delicious Ham Ninh crabs.

Drying Squid in Phu QuocAfter our seafood lunch, our driver took us to Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort in the center of Phu Quoc Island for beach time and relaxation. In the afternoon, we didn’t go anywhere, we enjoyed our resort in the middle of the jungle, facing the ocean. We went to the beach, but it was quite rocky. The seawater was very warm,  although the water was very salty and clean. Sunset was magnificent and I won’t forget the sunset moments.

We went swimming, the water in the swimming pool was very clear and nice. In the evening, we ate in the restaurant facing the infinity pool. How good dinner was after so many activities! It was a big Vietnamese-style dinner. All the food on the table was rice, pepper beef, sour soup, and sauteed spinach. It was so tasty and good. I strolled around the resort and enjoyed the quietness and the songs of insects before I went to my room and slept.

Boating to explore the beautiful Islands in the South

On the second day of the Phu Quoc trip, we woke up very early in the morning to watch the sunrise and went to the restaurant for breakfast as the first guest. The breakfast menu included bread, jam, honey, sausage, salad, smoked pork, and a lot of choices of coffee and tea. When we finished breakfast, my family jumped on a cruise for a journey of island discovery in the south of Phu Quoc. Phu Quoc Archipelago has 22 islands and islets and is the biggest island in Phu Quoc Island City and South Phu Quoc has 12 beautiful islands. It is good for maritime activities such as boating, yachting, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sea walking, and riding a cable car.

May Rut, Phu Quoc island

We visited Hon Mong Tay as the first stop of the cruise trip, had lunch, took photos, and swam. We saw the beautiful beach and the friendly people waving to say hello to us. We took photos of my family and younger brother as family trip souvenirs. After we went to May Rut Trong Beach, the water was very green, like emerald, under the coconut palm trees and the beach was long and beautiful. We went diving and saw starfish. Too bad, I could not see the coral because my mother thought it was too expensive per person so she didn’t let me go. All the remaining people jumped in and swam down and saw coral under the sea.

Instead, I enjoyed playing in the water park, it was fun. We both took a cable car from Hon Thom Island to the mainland, my brother was scared of the height but I was not. The views of the 12 islands are beautiful from the cable car which is the longest in the world, almost 8km. I was so tired after a long day, that we went to my home away from home, the Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort, to rest and relax. I liked eating. We had a big dinner which was more delicious than dinner the day before. The dinner menu was all about seafood of all kinds, boiled, grilled, and barbecued seafood with local pepper, fish sauce, coconut, and cashews.

The North and Safaris

My father said that there was a golf course, Phu Quoc United Center, Southeast Asia’s top resort, entertainment, a shopping supercomplex, and safaris in the North of Pearl Island, Phu Quoc. We picked safaris only because I like nature and animals. On day 3, after breakfast, we went to the Safari zoo north of the Island. We went there by car and entered through the main door. After that, we visited the big five animals. First, we visited the Bengal tiger. The Bengal tiger is a white tiger or yellow tiger. It originated from Asia, most of them come from Myanmar or India. Its food is beef and pork.

Next, we saw the flamingos, their main color is pink and white. They often live in the western hemisphere and eastern hemisphere. There are 4 species living in America, their food is mollusks such as shrimp or squid. Next, we met a ring-tailed lemur. It is known as a large wet-nosed primate. It’s mainly focused on Madagascar, SouthEast Africa. It was a species that was fast every day in the daytime to find food …. and many more animals that I could not count and do not remember their names.

We returned to the main lobby to wait for the car for lunch in Duong Dong downtown. At that moment, we waited by buying some water to drink to quench our thirst. It was hot in Phu Quoc, 35-38 degrees C, and sunny all day. After that, we got in the car and came back to the eco beach resort hotel. In the afternoon, it was time to relax, unwind, experience the swimming pool, walk in the jungle, and watch the sunset.

We enjoyed a peaceful afternoon, every moment counted, and we went to the beach for beach activities. I tried kayaking in the ocean under the sunset. In the evening, we had dinner at the restaurant and saw the floating lights of a boat of fishermen in the sea going to fish for squid for our breakfast and lunch the next day.

Dream to come back for cruising

On day 4, the last day,  we woke up late and we enjoyed our big breakfast late. Although, today the restaurant had less food. We took some photos to celebrate the outings, we took photos on the beach and at the swimming pool, but I felt that taking photos on the beach was the best. At lunch, we went to the local seafood restaurant looking over the sea. We ate a lot of food before we got on the plane so I was not hungry. It was a long journey back to Hanoi by flight, we arrived at Ha Noi safe and sound after 2 hours, non-delay, and it took us 20 minutes to get to my real home. After this trip, I was so happy and learned a lot of cool things and found new places I didn’t know before. Phu Quoc is beautiful. I want my father to build cruise ships in Phu Quoc so I can go there more often and cruise around Phu Quoc on the next trip.

 

The post A mesmerizing trip to Phu Quoc Island City first appeared on Lux Travel DMC's Blog.