Human Christmas and New Year approaching, ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) should send to all travelers of the faithful, heartfelt words to wish a peaceful Christmas and New Year exuberant grace of God.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/23/2011 -- With the approaching of Christmas and New Year 2012, ATA is providing discount up to 7 % for all loyalty customers to buy ATA's tours during the period from Feb, 1 2012 to Apr, 1 2012.

ATA runs the most adventure tours available in Indochina and Asia. ATA's active trips are designed for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, real people seeking real fun and adventure. Of course, a reasonable level of personal fitness, good health, and interest in outdoor activities is advisable, but the customers don't need to be a tri-athlete or be an expert in any of the activities you will undertake. There are variety kinds of adventure tours ATA's customers can choose from: motorbiking, trekking, hiking, biking, kayaking…

About ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA is one of the Indochina's leading adventure travel companies. ATA offers a wide selection of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia adventure tours, including hiking and trekking, biking, motorcycling, overland touring and family travel packages. ATA's packages and tailor-made private itineraries will take you through exotic destinations to really experience the culture, history and nature of Asia. Visit more, go to http://www.activetravel.asia.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-119960.htm

Attractive eco-friendly valleys, terraced slope attributes as well as tribes nevertheless subsequent their own historic customs — encouraged in order to Sapa.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/09/2011 -- Situated 350kms north-west associated with Hanoi, simply timid from the Chinese language edge may be the Lao Cai Land exactly where you'll discover Sapa. It's environment as well as amazing scenery tend to be about the reduce inclines from the Hoang Lien Boy hill variety, that additionally features Vietnam's greatest hill Fansipan, having a elevation associated with 3142 metre distances.

Sapa is actually filled with a varied number of cultural minorities like the Hmong, Yao, Tay as well as Giay organizations. Considered to possess lived on the region because the 1800?s, these types of Sapa slope tribes continue to be close to these days ongoing their own life-style as well as customs because they did for hundreds of years.

The elements is extremely periodic, throughout the summer time it is very reasonable as well as wet. Throughout the winter season it may be chilly, misty as well as obtain the unusual compacted snow. Suggested occasions to visit tend to be 03 via Might as well as middle Sept in order to earlier Dec to obtain a hotter as well as better encounter.

Arranging your own go Sapa ahead of time via a journey professional is actually recommended. The easiest method to reach Sapa is actually through immediately teach, exactly where vacationers may rest the actual trip aside. Through Hanoi the actual trip requires around 10 several hours and also the locomotives go away every day. You will find 14 locomotives that offer the actual come back trip in between Hanoi as well as Lao Cai, just about all supplying air-conditioning as well as comfy cabins along with several berth choices. You will awaken rejuvenated as well as prepared for the Sapa experience to start whenever you appear in to Lao Cai earlier the following early morning.

Place your own strolling footwear upon as well as discover the actual valleys providing breathless surroundings top you to definitely nearby towns. The actual closest town associated with Kitty Kitty is just 3kms through Sapa, an additional choice is actually Ta Phin town house in order to Red-colored Dzao around 10kms aside. The majority of vacationers looks for helpful information as well as has a Xe Om (motorcycle) to some starting place 8kms through Sapa, after that journey the 14km cycle round the region going to towns on the way. There is lots of walking as well as hiking choices in the region for those health and fitness amounts, going to slope group towns as well as waterfalls. For that severe mountaineer why don't you undertake the actual 19km trip towards the peak associated with Fansipan, Vietnam's greatest maximum?

An additional appeal associated with any kind of Sapa journey may be the marketplaces. You will find several marketplaces kept round the region usually about the weekend break upon whether Sunday or even Weekend. The well-known marketplace may be the Back 'Weekend marketplace, the industry buying and selling center as well as conference location with regard to family and friends. You will discover the neighborhood minorities putting on their own conventional clothes, the actual Hmong tend to be recognized through their own indigo stitched garb and also the Red-colored Dao through their own red-colored headdresses along with hanging cash as well as waistcoats which are intricately stitched as well as put on through the ladies. The actual Adore Marketplace is actually an additional famous marketplace — typically it had been a location in which the youths from the nearby slope tribes might arrive to locate a partner.

If you have fulfilled the actual local people, trekked the actual valleys as well as marvelled the actual sights associated with significantly terraced grain areas, shopped in the marketplaces and also have your own cherished times taken, you'll return in order to Lao Cai train station for the immediately teach to Hanoi. The Sapa journey experience is really a particular emphasize associated with any kind of day at Vietnam.

Source: wannawatch.info

Recommended by Active Travel Asia:

West to East Biking Exploration: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=20

Sapa Trekking & Homestay: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=25

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-117846.htm

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA has been member of American Society of Travel Agents, the world's largest association of travel professionals. They are the leading advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/28/2010 -- American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) offers many benefits to its members and the traveling public. The majority of ASTA's members are travel agencies. However, travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, car rental firms, cruise lines, and tour operators join ASTA. They also have membership categories for students, travel schools, retired travel professionals, retail travel sellers, and others. ASTA is the organization for anyone related to the travel industry!

The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents and its affiliated organizations, is to enhance the professionalism and profitability of members worldwide through effective representation in industry and government affairs, education and training, and by identifying and meeting the needs of the traveling public.

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) is a Vietnam Tour Operator, who offers a wide selection of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar adventure tours, including hiking and trekking, biking, motorcycling, overland touring and family travel packages.

Their packages and custom itineraries will take you through exotic destinations to really experience the culture, history and nature of Asia. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy an unforgettable active vacation. They run the most adventure tours available in the area. Their active trips are designed for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, real people seeking real fun and adventure

ATA joined in ASTA to promote and grow the sustainable and responsible adventure travel market especially in Australia, Euro and North America as well as spread of their brand name to global adventure travel network.

To be the member of ASTA, ATA expressed their effort to serve clients with the best services which is guaranteed, responsible and sustainable. Additionally, ATA is very happy to work with other Tour Operators, Travel Agencies, and Wholesales….as their partners for a mutually beneficial co-operation.

To be the clients or partners of ATA, you are all always welcome to their promisingly policies, unique adventure products and truly experiences.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-51747.htm

ATA promotes two motorcycling tours in Vietnam and another one in Cambodia. These blazing hot promotions guarantee more activities and bigger adventure for the same price. Travelers will get incredible driving and deep in the countryside and historical trails.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/12/2010 -- In Vietnam, travelers will ride through the historical trail named Ho Chi Minh Trail. The legendary trail was the supply line used by North Vietnam to link North and South Vietnam during the American War. Soldiers, ammunition, weapons and supplies were carried by hand, bicycle and truck for hundreds of kilometers through the otherwise impenetrable jungle that covered Vietnam's mountainous border with Laos. A testimony to the ingenuity, fortitude and commitment of the northern Vietnamese, the trail slipped from use at the end of the war and was taken back by the jungle. Recent road work follow original sections of the trail have changed this.

The first one, "Taste of Ho Chi Minh Trail" is organized for first time rider and easy adventure, offers a stunning motorcycling route with great exploration of nature and culture of northern Vietnam. Travelers will spend 3-day motorcycling with homestays in villages.

Joining in this tour, the special offer is a free of charge add on boat trip on Ma river in the afternoon of the first day. If rider group up to 6 persons, a free traditional Thai musical show will also be offers.

The second tour called "Motorcycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail - Half Challenge". This 11-day trip with 7-day motorcycling takes in the charming ancient trading town of Hoian, Khe Sanh battle site and DMZ. Travelers also take time to stay overnight in a traditional Thai hill tribe and visit to some tribal villages on the way.

Taking this tour, after a long trip, in the tenth day, riders will get a free body massage in Hoian. Moreover, for any pre or post trip in Vietnam, travelers will receive a 10% discount for the trip.

Besides, in both tours, if riders upgrade their motorbikes to dirtbike 175CC or 250CC, they will get the 40% discount for bike rental fee. Especially, to make the trip more comfortable, a free silk sleeping bag will be provided for each traveler.

In Cambodia, riders spend 14 days with 11 days motorcycling through the country. This is the best way to get to the remote and hidden corners of Cambodia. The adventure starts in the capital city and we will travel on 250cc dirtbike northward through scenic villages, mysterious temples. Highlight of the tour is the amazing Angkor Wat Temples. From Angkor Wat we head east to the hidden land of Mondulkiri, the land of exotic ethnic minorities and great nature scenery.

Booking this tour, tourists will get free Visa-on-arrival to Cambodia and a body massage in Phnom Penh. Moreover, a welcome diner in Phnom Penh will be offered for the group from 6 persons. Traveler will be provide 5% discount on any pre or post trip to Vietnam or Laos.

This Hot Summer Promotion validity is from 1 May, 2010 to 30September, 2010.

Details for the three motorcycling tours:
- Taste of Ho Chi Minh Trail: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=34
- Motorcycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail - Half Challenge: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=22
- Motorbiking Adventure Cambodia: http://www.activetravelcambodia.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=66

For more information and details of this promotion, please visit: Summer Promotion with ATA: http://www.activetravel.asia/special_offer/2010_summer_promotions.html

Or contact:
ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA
#31, Alley 4, Dang Van Ngu street, Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel: +84-4-35738569 | Fax: +84-4-35738570
Email: info@activetravel.asia | Website: http://www.activetravel.asia

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-44530.htm

According to ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA’s tours to south-east Asia, travelers want to visit some marvelous places in Vietnam that have been recommended by travel experts and reporters.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/10/2010 -- Jocelyn Abraham in Suite101.com has listed a number of attractions to be found in Ha Long Bay (http://www.kayakhalongbay.com/) as great beautiful islands includes Rooster Island, Incense Burner Island and Lonely Island, all named after their shapes.

Ms Abraham described Heaven's Cave as an "enormous grotto" that gets its name because a spiral of sunlight shines in through the rooftop, revealing "a labyrinth of giant stalactites and stalagmites" that makes the attraction "look like a Hollywood movie set".

She added that people might also wish to take a multiple-day tour of the bay, which can include kayaking (http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/vietnam_kayaking_travel_tours.html) in lagoons and trekking (http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/vietnam_hiking_trekking_travel_tours.html) through the National Park on Cat Ba Island.

In a bid to attract more tourists to Vietnam (http://www.activetravelvietnam.com), the country's government recently announced that it is to waive the visa fees of all foreign visitors who are going to arrive there in August and September. If you need to get free visa arrangement support (http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/services/travel_services.html), please contact to info@activetravel.asia

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA also offers Special Promotion in Summer 2010 for kayaking tour in Vietnam, Please visit: Kayaking Halong Bay 3 days (http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=43)

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-44133.htm

Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia experience the fastest growth in popularity in Asia, according to Cheapflights UK, a British website for price search and comparison in travel. Searches for Indonesia are up 116 percent, followed by Vietnam with 94 percent and Malaysia with 79 percent.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/28/2010 -- Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia experience the fastest growth in popularity in Asia, according to Cheapflights UK, a British website for price search and comparison in travel. Searches for Indonesia are up 116 percent, followed by Vietnam with 94 percent and Malaysia with 79 percent.

"While Thailand has long been a British favorite, neighboring East Asian countries have experienced a dramatic rise in search recently and we are starting to see a popularity shift into places like Vietnam," says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for Cheapflights UK.

Price conscious travelers will find value in all three destinations. Vietnam is the easternmost country on the Indochina Peninsula. Bordered by China, Laos and Cambodia, the country features two World Natural Heritage sites and six World biosphere reserves. Vietnam is ranked 16th in biological diversity, and 16 percent of the world's species can be found here, including 794 aquatic invertebrates and 2,458 sea fish. While tourism has grown steadily to almost 4 million visitors over the years, prices remain relatively low.

Malaysia is made up of three main regions covering over a thousand individual islands. West and East Malaysia are separated by the South China Sea and share a largely similar landscape of coastal plains that rise to often densely forested hills and mountains. 38 designated marine parks are home to shipwrecks, coral gardens, black-tip reef sharks, barracuda, groupers, parrotfish, puffer and angelfish are common sights.

With a population of 230 million, Indonesia is the world's fourth most populous country. Only about 6,000 of its 17,508 islands that stretch along the equator are inhabited. After Brazil, Indonesia supports the world's second highest level of biodiversity. The Komodo National Park, the Banda Sea, Raja Ampat and the Bunaken National Marine Park feature some of the best scuba diving in the region.

"Travelers are more up to going the distance not only in flight time, but also in adventure. Whether it's helping to feed an economy that's fighting to grow or getting better acquainted with one that's already booming," said Hallak. "Perhaps the two most interesting trends to come out of the recession are a heightened global conscience and a thirst for exploration."

Source: dtinews

Recommendation in Vietnam:
- Travel guides in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/vietnam_travel_guides.html
- Adventure Travel Tours in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php
- Adventure Tours in Big Summer Promotion with Activetravel Asia: http://www.activetravel.asia/special_offer/2010_summer_promotions.html

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-43102.htm

Imaginative travellers looking to head to south-east Asia might want to make Vietnam a priority stop-off, as a website has provided tips on how to survive a stay in the country.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/20/2010 -- Suite101 has reported that following the culmination of war in recent years, the nation's economy has started to "boom" and visitor numbers are on the increase.

It has thus offered some guidance on the best ways to stay safe and save money while journeying across the place.

An easy - and relatively cheap - way to get between destinations is to fly, the portal has advised, although those who do not fancy taking to the sky can travel by rail - along such routes as the Reunification Express.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must for those wanting to venture around by foot, along with sunscreen, shorts and loose clothing - although access to some temples and restaurants may require people to cover up.

Suite101 recently recommended a boat trip along Vietnam's Mekong Delta to individuals hoping to experience the country's diverse food and culture

Source: imaginative-traveller.com

Adventure Travel Resource
- Adventure holidays in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php
- Adventure holidays in Laos: http://www.activetravellaos.com/tour.php
- Adventure holidays in Cambodia: http://www.activetravelcambodia.com/tour.php

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-42652.htm

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) blazing hot promotion offers great kayaking adventure into the majestic Ha Long Bay and also a glimpse into culture of the Vietnamese.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/19/2010 -- This tour offers a great chance to discover Halong Bay in Vietnam – a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. The calm sea provides an ideal location for sea kayaking as paddling through a maze of islets amid dramatic natural scenery. The trip is for true and different kayaking experience in Halong Bay.

Start this trip, travelers leave Hanoi for Halong Bay. On the way travelers will have a short break for refreshment at a handicraft centre. Upon arrival in Halong City travelers board a luxury junk for a fine seafood lunch and a short cruise to Thien Cung Cave. After a short exploration of the cave travelers enjoy a beautiful cruise through an amazing area of limestone islets. Travelers will pass a floating village to reach Luon Cave, which is a tunnel thrusting through a mountain. Take a bamboo boat to visit the cave. Back to the junk for dinner and overnight.

The next day, after breakfast travelers start paddling to Van Chai Floating village and then continue paddling to Dark Cave. Tide permitting, travelers explore this amazing cave by kayak. The cave is a 200m long, dark tunnel thrusting through a limestone mountain. The tunnel is the only entry to a secluded and beautiful lagoon. Travelers can also explore some other caves nearby. Lunch will be severed on support boat in front of the cave. After lunch travelers paddle to Ba Trai Dao Lagoon, along a stunning and fairly rough sea channel, to explore its beautiful beaches. Continue paddling to Lan Ha Bay, which is smaller than Halong Bay but much more interesting with lots of secluded beaches. Cruise back to Halong Bay for dinner and overnight on mother boat.

The last day, breakfast on the junk and enjoy the sundeck of the junk while she navigates amazing rock formations of Bai Tu Long Bay to get back to Halong City. Having lunch on the junk before travelers head back to Hanoi by bus.

Promotion Validity is from May 1 to September 30, 2010

Promotion offers:
- Free-of-charge 01 cooking class at Hidden Hanoi Restaurant (joined class)
- Free-of-charge 01 Water Puppet Show
- Free-of-charge silk sleeping bag

More information, please click: Kayaking Halong Bay 3 Days: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=43

Recommendation for Summer Holiday:
All Summer Promotion Tours in Vietnam & Cambodia: http://www.activetravel.asia/special_offer/2010_summer_promotions.html

Kayaking Tours in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=listByCategoryId&catId=3

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-40683.htm

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) is offering Great Summer Promotion 2010 in Vietnam and Cambodia. These promotions are guaranteed by luxurious adventure tours, add-on values and reasonable prices.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/05/2010 -- ATA kicks off Special Summer Promotion 2010 covering all kinds of adventure tours include trekking, biking, motorcycling, kayaking and family adventure in Vietnam and Cambodia. There are eight tours in Vietnam (www.activetravelvietnam.com), eleven ones in Cambodia (http://www.activetravelcambodia.com) and three others combining between Vietnam and Cambodia. Each tour is provided with unique and special value-added services.

In this promotion, the offers are different from each area in Vietnam and Cambodia. In the Northern Vietnam, travelers are learned how to cook local dishes at the homestay or at Hidden Hanoi Restaurant. If travelers decide to visit to Central Vietnam, a free half-day guided tour to Imperial Citadel in Hue city or a body massage in Hoi An is added on the trips. In the Southern Vietnam, when the group is up to 5 persons, travelers get a free of charge half-day tour guided in Saigon. In Cambodia, travelers receive free Visa-on-arrival arrangement when they book any package tour.

The promotion provides travelers the real experiences in hidden Indochina with add-on valued services. This big hit suits for all types of group and who love any kind of adventure activities.

Sea kayaking Halong Bay is a highlight in this promotion. The calm sea provides an ideal location for sea kayaking as paddling through a maze of islets amid dramatic natural scenery recognized by UNESCO.

Promotion kayaking tour:
kayak Halong bay 3 Days

Besides, Trekking Tours of ATA lead travelers to outstanding natural beauty and interesting glimpse of Vietnamese & Cambodian culture and history.

Promotion trekking tours:
1. Trekking in Pu Luong Nature Reserve (6D/5N)
2. Bach Ma National Park Trek & Camping (2D/1N)
3. Trekking Nam Cat Tien National Park (2D/1N)
4. Trek Angkor Temples
5. Trek Rattanakiri

Joining biking tours, travelers will pedal through beautiful areas, interact with local passers-by. And this is best way to get to the remote and hidden corners in each country.

Promotion biking tours:
1. Mekong Explorer (4D/3N)
2. Biking Mai Chau (2D/1N)
3. Biking Angkor Wat
4. Cycling Angkor Temples
5. Biking Coastal towns and Phnom Penh
6. Biking Coastal towns and Angkor Wat
7. Biking Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat

ATA also offers promotion for motorcycling tours in both Cambodia and Vietnam. Travelers will get incredible driving and deep in the countryside and historical trails.

Promotion motorcycling tours:
1. Taste of Ho Chi Minh Trail (3D/2N)
2. Motorcycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail - Half Challenge (11D/10N)
3. Motorbiking Adventure Cambodia

Especially, if travelers plan to travel both Cambodia and Vietnam, the trips offer a great combination of the two exotic lands and cultures in Mekong delta and World heritage sites.

Promotion Indochina tours:
1. Mekong Delta & Angkor Wat (10D/9N)
2. Biking Mekong Delta and Cambodia (11D/10N)
3. Cycling Angkor Temples and Kayaking Halong Bay (12D/11N)

Travel with family in Cambodia, the trip take travelers to ancient temples, empty beaches, mighty rivers, remote forests... Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap Lake is the highlight for the holiday.

Promotion family adventure tours:
1. Angkor Wat Highlights
2. Angkor Wat Discovery
3. Cambodia Discovery

For the whole Summer Promotion Tours, click to this link: http://www.activetravel.asia/special_offer/2010_summer_promotions.html

In conclusion, with the best add–on values from this Great Summer Promotion of ATA, the hesitance will be replaced by the smart decision from who are exited in traveling and getting more real experience.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-39632.htm

Thanh Khuc (or Tranh Khuc) Village at Duyen Ha Commune, Thanh Tri District, Hanoi is famous for making their traditional Chung cake. This is a place where the spirit of Tet comes alive the earliest in Hanoi.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/07/2010 -- Tranh Khuc Village is particularly busy at the end of the year. Although Tet is approaching next month, the entire village is preparing to make Chung cake. You cannot find such a traditional feature of Tet anywhere other than here.

Chung cake is a traditional Vietnamese cake which is made from glutinous rice, mung bean, pork and other ingredients. Its origin is told by the legend of Lang Lieu, a prince of the sixth Hung King, who became Hung King 's successor thank to his creation of Chung cake and Giay cake, which symbolised respectively the Earth and the Sky. Considered an essential element of the family altar on the occasion of Tet. The making and eating Chung cake during this time is a well-preserved tradition of Vietnamese people, and the specialty of Tranh Khuc Village.

"Daily, we wash la dong (a special kind of leave which is popular only in southern Asia), rice, beans and then wrap chung cake. We cook it for a night and the next day we will sell it. We keep working day and night," said Nguyen Thi Thuy, a villager.

Each family here has 10-25 workers with 5-10 big pots to cook chung cake. Their business used to be retail sales but now it has grown to wholesale.

Making Chung cake is a traditional business in this farming village and has remained very successful. It helps them to improve their livelihood.

Ngan's family is among those becoming wealthier thanks to making chung cake. "My family's economic situation has been much improved thanks the Chung cake business. We just inherited a legacy left by our ancestor and continued to develop it," said Ngan.

However, the title of "Chung cake Master" belongs to Nguyen Minh Tan, who is over 50 years old but has spent 30 years making chung cake. He has about 20 employees working for him. His entire house is full of la dong, strings, and sticky rice.

He has sold thousands of Chung cakes. The first time he exported Chung cakes was back in 1994. He exported 4,000 cakes to Germany in addition to Australia and Russia.

"It looks simple because every family makes Chung cake on Tet holiday but when it becomes a business, it needs a lot of effort, experience and preparedness. We want to maintain our prestige and reputation for our off-spring," said Nguyen Quoc Trieu, a villager.

In order to make a good Chung cake, we need to buy and select high quality ingredients. For example, la dong should be bought from Thanh Hoa, Nghe An or Yen Bai, Lao Cai and Ha Giang provinces because they are soft, hard to be broken and have a nice green colour after cooking.

La dong and giang strings have to be washed carefully in order to preserve the taste of the cake. Giang strings may be soaked in salt water or steamed so that they can become flexible enough for wrapping. Fat and lean pork is prefered for Chung cake because its fatty flavour associates mixes well with the glutinous rice and bean, developing a special taste, according to Trieu.

"We make Chung cake for the whole year. We can earn VND10,000-15,000 ($0.5-0.8) per cake. But during Tet, we can earn much more money," added Trieu.

The people here prepare for Tet beginning in early December and keep busy for the entire month. They welcome the New Year after the last cake has sold.

Tranh Khuc Village has 90 percent of its population making Chung Cake. They have been famous for 40-50 years. They don't even need mould to wrap Chung Cake in the right manner. Many masters can make hundreds of cakes of the same size.

Source: dtinews.vn
by Quang Thanh

Recommendation in Vietnam:
- Vietnam Cultures and Customs: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/vietnam_culture_customs.html
- Adventure tours in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php
- Short Excursions in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelshop.com/?name=product&op=listSubcategories&cat=Shortexcursions

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-37813.htm

Lying in Tan Hiep commune, in the central province of Quang Nam’s Hoi An town, Cu lao Cham or Cham island is a cultural historical monument that is closely associated with the establishment and development of Hoi An town for a thousand years.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/20/2010 -- The island has become one of 15 Vietnamese maritime reserves since 2007. However, in May, 2009, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) accepted Cham island as a world biosphere reserve thanks to its topography, the biodiversity value and the unspoilt and attractive landscape.

The sapphires
The island consists of eight islets, including Hon Lao, Hon Dai, Hon Kho me or the mother Hon Kho, Hon Kho con or the child Hon Kho, Hon La, Hon Tai, Hon Ong. Each islet with a distinct feature of beauty and wonderful sand beaches make an ideal landscape. The abrupt mountain slopes, big waves and floristic composition makes these islets like unpolished sapphires. The island is, therefore, an ideal destination.

Kingdom of aquatic animals
With 500 hectares of sea-weed alga, marine algae and sea grass and 165 hectares of coral and sea creatures, the island is considered a kingdom of aquatic animals. Of which, the coral has 135 species, algae and sea grasses have 500 species, fish 202 species, lobster 4 species and mollusks 84 species. Under the clear fresh water is coral and shoals of colorful fish. If you go for a scuba dive you will encounter a beautiful marine world.

Go and discover
Cham island is 15 kilometres from Cua Dai beach and 20 kilometres off the coast from Hoi An ancient town. If reach the island by hi-speed boat, it will take you just 30 minutes. Meanwhile, boat ticket prices are very reasonable. Therefore, there will be no reason for you to miss the chance of taking a visit to such a natural and unspoilt landscape, fresh air and cool climate. From Cua Dai beach, you can also take a trip to the island by a normal boat.

However, before starting the trip, you should be aware of environmental protection. You should not bring anything made from plastic or anything that could damage the environment.

After starting the boat, you will quickly reach the largest islet- Hon Lao, that covers 1.317 hectares and is 500 metres high. This islet is, therefore, considered as the rooftop of these islets. Continuing on the trip you can visit the historical monuments of Hai Tang Pagpda-a 300-year architecture located among three mountains called Bat Long, Ngoa Long and Tiem.

There are so many wonderful landscapes on Cham island that you can not visit far-away places on a day tour. However, destinations that you should not miss include Lang Ong, the old well, Huong fishing village, and an exhibition of nature and the Cham island people's culture.

Come and enjoy
If you come to Cham island you will have chance to join in many water sports, including swimming, water skiing, paragliding, kayaking, kite flying and boat racing. You will also have chance to scuba dive and go on glass-bottomed boat that allows you to discover the underwater world. At night time, you can also participate in cultural activities on the beaches until late.

Finally, there is nothing that could bring you a more enjoyable feeling than enjoying the special fresh seafood at reasonable prices after your trip or tour.

Source: By Nho Trung /dtinews.vn

Related sites:
- Vietnam City Guides: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/city_guides.html
- Bike Ho Chi Minh Trail: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=65

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-36900.htm

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA has been member of Adventure Travel Trade Association, who operates and promotes sustainable adventure travel as well as trusted tour operators online

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/07/2010 -- Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) is a global membership organization dedicated to unifying, networking, professionalizing, promoting and responsibly growing the adventure travel market as well as operates and promotes sustainable adventure travel as well as trusted tour operators online. ATTA members include tour operators, destination marketing organizations, tourism boards, specialty travel agents, guides, accommodations, media and service providers.

Host of the annual Adventure Travel World Summit executive conferences, the ATTA provides professional support, development, education, research, marketing, career building, networking and cost-saving resources to its members.

ACTIVETRAVEL ASIA (ATA) is a Vietnam Tour Operator, who offers a wide selection of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar adventure tours, including hiking and trekking, biking, motorcycling, overland touring and family travel packages.

Their packages and custom itineraries will take you through exotic destinations to really experience the culture, history and nature of Asia. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy an unforgettable active vacation. They run the most adventure tours available in the area. Their active trips are designed for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, real people seeking real fun and adventure

ATA joined in ATTA to promote and grow the sustainable and responsible adventure travel market especially in Australia, Euro and North America as well as spread of their brand name to global adventure travel network.

To be the member of ATTA, ATA expressed their effort to serve clients with the best services which is guaranteed, responsible and sustainable. Additionally, ATA is very happy to work with other Tour Operators, Travel Agencies, and Wholesales….as their partners for a mutually beneficial co-operation.

To be the clients or partners of ATA, you are all always welcome to their promisingly policies, unique adventure products and real experiences in the different way "ACTIVELY EXPLORING HIDDEN LANDS…"

ATA website: http://www.activetravel.asia
ATA on ATTA: http://www.adventure.travel/operator/360/_b_Activetravel_Asia_b/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-36256.htm

Although Christmas does not have historical roots in Viet Nam, people across the country are filled with the holiday spirit.

Hanoi, Viet Nam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/27/2009 -- No need to wait until December 25, one can easily sense Christmas coming to many big cities in of The whole country is singing Christmas carols together.

The streets and buildings in Ha Noi have been lavishly decorated with Christmas trees, reindeer, presents, and so on. Windows are framed with multi-coloured lights, and Christmas songs float through hallway speakers. Gift-shopping and present-wrapping have been in full swing

Walking along Hang Ma Street in Hanoi, Nguyen Hoang Yen browses through colourful ribbons and decorative balls to pick out several favourites. After finally taking a package of tiny bells and golden balls, Yen also picks up wrapping paper imprinted with Santas and the unmistakable phrase "Merry Christmas".

Although Yen's family is not Christian, she says a Christmas celebration has been their custom for several years.

"My children simply assume Santa Claus to be a Western Buddha and they can wish not only for luck, but also for various gifts," she says

Hanoian Ngo Truong Sinh, who recently married a Christian woman, says he often went to the Christmas Eve mass even before he met his wife.

Sinh and his friends often visited churches in Ha Noi on Christmas Eve merely to join in with the atmosphere of the crowd, take a couple of pictures and have fun together.

After twice accompanying his wife to observe rituals in the Cua Bac Church, he said he felt a deeper respect for Christmas and its meaning.

"My feelings are now quite different," he said. "Despite my lack of religious obligation, I feel more excited about Christmas than ever before and consider the holiday part of my life."

Christmas seems to have become a special occasion for the whole community, which can be obviously seen by what is going on in Hue these days.

Despite more than 600 pagodas that exist in the former royal city of Hue, the religious holiday of Christmas has been embraced by nearly everyone in the area: Buddhists, Christians and even non-believers.

"Christmas has become an international holiday and cultural event," explains Bishop Anthony Duong Quynh of the city's Phu Cam diocese, which has 5,560 Christian parishioners.

"Guests who come to visit our cathedral during Christmas include Buddhist monks. We respect each other's religion. Christmas is not just for Christians," he adds.

Hue's Phu Cam Cathedral, one of its biggest churches and well-known for its architectural features, was built in 1960 on a hill where an orange plantation once stood. On Christmas Eve, people walk en masse on the streets to the church square and later attend mass.

"I was extremely happy to see thousands of people gathered around the cathedral waiting for the Christmas Eve service last year," Bishop Quynh says. "I love the peaceful atmosphere of the crowds."

"The strongest feeling I had was peace."

Known in Viet Nam as Noel after the French introduced it and Catholicism to the country years ago, the holiday has various meanings for many people. But all agree that the bells ringing at midnight on Christmas Eve signal the universal desire for peace.

Recommendation for Christmas Season in Vietnam:
Biking Tours in Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=listByCategoryId&catId=2
Hue excursions: http://www.activetravelshop.com/?name=product&op=listProducts&subcat=HueTours

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-35811.htm

They grow their crops on the rocks and walk several kilometers of steep, cold mountain roads to buy and sell small goods, but the Mong families on the Dong Van Plateau are some of the most hospitable in the world.

Hanoi, Hanoi -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/15/2009 -- After the long journey, settling into the silence and peace of a stop high mountain road in Ha Giang Province can be an arresting experience.

Vietnam's northernmost province is located in the northwestern. Hoang Lien Mountains – the Tonkinese Alps as the French called them – near the border with China.

All's quiet except for the whisper of the crisp breeze and the crunch of a local Mong family's sandals on the road as they walk carrying large bamboo backpacks filled whatever produce or goods they've either just bought or are about to sell at the market.

The language barrier keeps us at a distance in one way, but the simple smiles of the family bring our two very different worlds close together.

Mesmerized by the strength and spirit in their faces, the natural beauty that surrounds us – limestone peaks creeping above a dense mist, vibrant green valleys descending into earth-red rivers – is equally enchanting. I've never met anyone who came here and didn't want to come back.

The sturdy roads on the steep sides of the Dong Van Highlands tower above green corn fields in the summer and colorful valleys of wild flowers in the autumn and spring.

The carpet of colors – even on grey, overcast and otherwise dreary days – is breathtaking.

Life in the slow lane
The journey to Dong Van is not exactly easy, but it's worth it.

At an altitude of more than 1,000 meters above sea level, the bends are sharp and the passes narrow for hours along the rocky plateau. Drive slow, especially if you go by motorbike, as the safety rails are not very high.

The motorbike is the most intense way to experience the trip, but most rides in Ha Giang are not only gorgeous, but also tiring and at times dangerous.

There is only one road connecting the town of Ha Giang to the smaller towns of Quan Ba and Yen Minh and then Dong Van and Meo Vac districts, the most remote part of the trip.

From Quan Ba, a beautiful road takes you on cliffs beside the Mien River. The road goes through several Mong villages before it lands in Dong Van Town, where the local Tay community has been living for around 200 years.

The French army landed here in the 19th century and there are still several rows of old French tile-roofed homes
alongside other Vietnamese homes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Mong market is open every Sunday, producing a variety of different sounds and smells.

About 20km from Dong Van is Meo Vac Town, the capital of Meo Vac District. Meo Vac is famous for its "Cow Market" where 300-400 cattle are sold every Sunday in northern Vietnam's largest bovine exchange.

The sellers, who can earn tens of millions of dong per animal, always invite the buyers to enjoy local wine after the transactions.

Meo Vac is near Dong Van, so some people go to both markets on a Sunday morning.

Happy trails
The road between Meo Vac and Dong Van may be one of the most beautiful in Vietnam.

But it has a sad history.

For years in the 50s and 60s, tens of thousands of migrant laborers from six surrounding provinces worked to break the mountain and build the road.

But due to wartime deprivation, many died of diseases and accidents. Now the road is known locally as the "Happy" road, perhaps for its beauty. But there is a monument commemorating the dead workers who built it.

The Dong Van Plateau is made even more beautiful by the Mong people who live there.

Life can be difficult for a poor Mong family, but in my years of visiting Ha Giang, I've never heard anyone complain or ask for a favor. The Mong always smile and are extremely friendly to visitors.

All the intricacies and grace of the Dong Van Highlands can hardly even be mentioned in this story alone. More stories will soon follow to elaborate on the culture, history and natural wonder of the area.

REACHING FOR RECOGNITION
The Dong Van Highlands, encompassing total area of more than 574 square kilometers in Ha Giang Province's Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van and Meo Vac districts, could eventually be recognized as a UNESCO Global Geological Park.

UNESCO Vietnam has sent an application based on a recent study which concluded that limestone can be found in 11 layers on 80 percent of the surface of the plateau. Two of the layers are sediment dating from 400 to 600 million years ago.

How to get there
The highlands are about 450km north of Hanoi. Visitors can take National Road 2 by motorbike or ride in cars with fewer than 30 seats. A tour from Hanoi to the plateau should take four days and three nights. There are basically-equipped hotels in Ha Giang, Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Source: TN
How to find Ha Giang Adventure tours
- West to East Biking Exploration: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=20
- Motorcycling adventure in Northern Vietnam: http://www.activetravelvietnam.com/tour.php?op=detail&tourId=66

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-35348.htm

The age-old traditions of the Red Dao people, a hill tribe known for its medicinal culture and expert herbalists, infuse an all natural spa in the mountains.

Hanoi, Vietnam -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/11/2009 -- After a long day of hiking the steep hills and terraced rice paddies of the mountains around Sapa, an all-natural herbal steam bath was just what my aching muscles needed.

At Red Dao Spa, I was led into a small bath full of fragrant steam wafting from the large wooden tub. First, I washed down with some herb-infused water, a dark reddish color, and then sat in the warm water for a 20 minute soak.

The Red Dao people in Sapa are known as the best herbalists in the area thanks to a vibrant medicinal culture centered on herbal remedies. Living near thick forests, Red Dao communities have taken advantage of the rich source of medicine to keep them healthy and full of energy. The Red Dao use herbs to treat everything from flu to skin diseases and muscle problems.

For generations, the Red Dao people have used traditional herbal spas to treat a variety of ailments. Their baths include ten different kinds of herbs collected fresh from the forest before each soak.

The leaves, some fresh but some dried, are boiled for 3-4 hours. Then they are mixed with fresh water at 30-37oC. The bathtub, put in a small room to keep the steam and fragrance of the herbs, is usually made from fir or another aromatic wood.

Therapy

Red Dao Spa is run by Sapa local Ly Lao Lo in Ta Chai Village, Ta Phin Commune, around 12 kilometers from the center of the town.

The spa is small and sparsely furnished, but welcoming and comfortable. I visited after a Sapa woman suggested the place.

Once I arrived, I was briefed about the history of the herbal therapies I would be given and the properties of each herb.

Then I had my soak. Sitting in the warm, red water, I felt all my senses tingle and my muscles eased and relaxed. A soothing feeling crept up and down my body. After 20 minutes, I was thoroughly relaxed.

Goldmine

The only problem with Sapa's new Red Dao-style spas is that there are a lot of them and it's not easy to tell which ones are authentic.

"The thing that worries me is if people sell the service when they don't really understand it and do not use the herbs properly," said Lo.

"It also saddens me to see villagers working very hard to collect the herbs when the spas don't pay them very well."

With help from doctors at the Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Lo has also established a small company producing soap with traditional Red Dao herbs and leaves. To make the product, which can be found in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Lo has hired some 40 families in his village to grow the herbs themselves.

Try the true Dao's spa at:

Red Dao Spa: Ta Chai Village, Ta Phin Commune, Sa Pa District, Lao Cai Province

Tel: (020) 871 756/098 897 5704

Tour to Sapa can be booked at:

ACTIVE TRAVEL VIETNAM

31 Alley 4, Dang Van Ngu St., Hanoi

367 Ngo Quyen St., Son Tra Dist., Da Nang

50 Bis Co Bac St., Dist. 1, HCMC

Support number (24/7 service): (04) 3 573 8569

http://www.activetravelvietnam.com

Source: VietNamNet/Thanh Nien

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-35171.htm