The Timeless Charm of Vietnam’s Lantern Festivals

 

Girls in long dresses float conic hats with lighted candles

Vietnam is rich in cultural traditions, seamlessly blending ancient customs with modern life. Among its many celebrated festivals, one stands out for its enchanting beauty and magical ambience—the Lantern Festival. Whether exploring the ancient town of Hội An or marvelling at the vibrant scenes along the Perfume River in Huế, these festivals are an unforgettable experience.

Magical Moments on the Rivers

Magical moments unfold as lanterns dance on Vietnam’s rivers, casting a soft glow across the water. As the sun sets and darkness envelops the sky, the rivers come to life with thousands of colourful lanterns, each carrying the hopes, dreams, and prayers of those who release them. These radiant vessels drift along the gentle currents, creating a mesmerizing scene where light and water become one. For many locals and visitors alike, releasing a lantern is a spiritual act, a moment of reflection, and a way to connect with the past, present, and future.

A Symbol of Hope and Luck

The Lantern Festival is not just a feast for the eyes—it is deeply symbolic. In Vietnamese culture, lanterns represent good fortune, happiness, and the guiding light through life’s journey. Families and friends gather to release lanterns, each with a personal wish or prayer written on it. As the lanterns float away, they symbolize the release of worries and the embrace of new opportunities.

Hội An: A Lantern Wonderland

Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perhaps the most famous place in Vietnam to experience the Lantern Festival. Every month, during the full moon, the streets of the ancient town are illuminated solely by lanterns. The electricity is switched off, and the city becomes a glowing wonderland. Tourists and locals alike wander through the lantern-lit streets, marvelling at the intricate designs and vibrant colours that adorn the town’s homes, shops, and temples.

Lantern Festivals Across Vietnam

While Hội An is known for its monthly lantern displays, lantern festivals can be found across Vietnam. In Huế, the Perfume River becomes a sparkling pathway for lanterns during various traditional celebrations. Hanoi and Saigon also host their own versions of lantern festivals during the Mid-Autumn Festival, where children carry star-shaped lanterns. At the same time, parades, dragon dances, and festivities fill the streets.

A Night to Remember

Whether you witness the glowing rivers or participate in the lantern releases yourself, these festivals are filled with a sense of wonder and tranquillity. As lanterns drift into the distance, fading away with the current, the sense of unity and shared experience lingers long after the festival ends.

In Vietnam, the Lantern Festival is more than a visual spectacle—it’s a cultural experience that captures the nation's soul, bridging the past and future in a breathtaking moment.

Notes for Visiting Mù Cang Chải in 2024

 

As there are fewer visitors this year, tourists heading to Mù Cang Chải during this year's rice season have many accommodation and experience options. However, choosing suitable transportation to reach the rice-viewing spots is essential.

Mù Cang Chải is entering the ripe rice season, with favourable weather, complete services, and fewer tourists than in previous years.

According to Giang A Chay, a tour guide in Mu Cang Chai, visitors started arriving on September 15 after a one-week pause due to the impact of Typhoon Yagi. At Mong Ngua and Mam Xoi hills, most visitors over the past week have been photographers from both Vietnam and abroad seeking to capture the golden season. More tourists, primarily travelling from Hanoi and northern provinces, tend to come during weekends.

“One of the advantages this year compared to previous years is that it's quieter, which allows for creating more beautiful photos,” said Giang A Chay.

Mu Cang Chải experienced rain over the weekend. “It rained at night, but during the day, it was sunny, so the tours were not affected,” A Chay said. However, he noted that some roads leading to rice-viewing points are dirt roads, making them slippery and difficult to travel.

Nguyen Trang, a visitor from Hanoi who travelled to Mu Cang Chải over the weekend (September 20-22), said that the weather at the destination alternated between rain and sun. Due to the rain from the previous day, travelling to the viewing spots the next day was quite challenging, as the dirt roads were muddy.

"There were a few minor landslides, but they were not significant. However, some sections required slower and more difficult travel," Trang mentioned.

On travel forums about Mu Cang Chai, local tourism experts advised visitors to “keep their original itinerary,” suggesting 3-4 days for the trip and to go with a “relaxed mindset,” as some difficult-to-reach spots may affect the overall experience. Northern tourists may not need to rush, as there will still be opportunities to see the golden rice fields over the next week or 10 days.

Paragliding Services

The event "Flying Over Scenic Landmarks – Golden Season 2024" runs from early September until the end of October. The paragliding launch point is at the top of Khau Pha Pass—one of northern Vietnam's four most incredible passes—at about 1,200 meters above sea level, overlooking the Lim Mong Valley. Paragliding hours are from 9 AM to 4 PM daily.

Paragliding prices: 2,190,000 VND per person (weekdays) and 2,590,000 VND per person (weekends).

Tourists will fly with a professional paragliding pilot. The flight lasts 10 to 25 minutes, depending on wind and weather conditions. Paragliding services will not operate on foggy days or when weather conditions are not safe.

Accommodation

Mù Cang Chải still has many available rooms due to the reduced number of visitors. Tourists can easily find accommodation at homestays and guesthouses, with prices ranging from 300,000 VND to around 1.5 million VND per night. Resort prices start from 3 million VND per night.

Some recommendations include Song Lung Khung Long Homestay, Pu Nhu Homestay, Mu Cang Chai Ecolodge, Ngoc Chien Pearl, and Mu Cang Chai Ecohome.

A view of Mu Cang Chai's terraced fields on September 21 from Song Lung Khung Long Homestay. Photo: Provided by Homestay

Transportation

There are several transportation options in Mu Cang Chai. Visitors can drive their cars to points near the attractions and hire motorbike taxis for each segment. Tourists can also hire local motorbike taxis for a full day to visit popular spots. Renting a self-driven motorbike is recommended for those with experience and strong driving skills.

The cost of hiring a motorbike taxi for a full day is around 500,000 to 600,000 VND per person, with room for negotiation sometimes. The average price for a round trip to specific points, such as Mong Ngua Hill, Mam Xoi Hill, Song Lung Khung Long, and the bamboo forest, ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 VND.

Tourists should carry cash to pay for motorbike taxi services to the rice-viewing spots, as some drivers do not accept bank transfers.

Entrance fees to certain attractions range from 10,000 VND to 30,000 VND.

For travel from Hanoi to Mù Cang Chai, in addition to personal vehicles, tourists can opt for buses departing from My Dinh Bus Station (Hanoi). The journey to Mù Cang Chải takes approximately 8 hours.

Park Bom On The Stage In Vietnam

 

Park Bom performed on a stage in Vietnam

On the night of September 22, the fan concert event of 2NE1’s lead vocalist, Park Bom, titled “2024 Park Bom Special Fan Concert in Vietnam,” took place at Hòa Bình Theater, Ho Chi Minh City.

This concert was a special gift from Park Bom to her Vietnamese fans after 10 years since the famous group 2NE1 performed at Phú Thọ Stadium in 2014.

Earlier that afternoon, during a press conference, singer Park Bom encouraged young Vietnamese people who are passionate about music.

"I want to send this message to the young people of Vietnam: if you have a music dream, always stay determined and never give up on your dreams. That dream will surely come true if you never give up," the idol shared.

Park Bom enjoys eating pho, sweetly says ‘I love you’ to Vietnamese fans
During the event, Park Bom delighted fans with a series of hits associated with her name and 2NE1, such as "You and I," "Spring," "Don't Cry," and more.

Although the weather was unfavourable, the auditorium was nearly filled, showing the affection of Vietnamese fans for the singer.

In addition to the explosive musical moments, the 2NE1 member actively interacted and answered questions from Vietnamese fans.

When a fan asked her what Vietnamese dish she liked the most, Park Bom said, "I have tried Vietnam's pho and found it very delicious. I really like this dish."

The audience was not only excited by the performances but also “melted” by the idol's cuteness. In response to constant questions, the idol humorously “forgot her answers” multiple times and asked to “peek at her notes,” making fans laugh.

Fan concerts are always popular because they offer precious opportunities for fans to interact directly with their idols.

During the program, there were small contests like a "dance challenge" or impressive outfits, where lucky fans were selected to take individual photos with Park Bom.

Near the end of the event, the idol won more hearts by sweetly saying "I love you" in Vietnamese, which thrilled her fans. She also expressed her fondness for the country and promised to return to Vietnam when the opportunity arose.

The crowd erupted when the hit song “I Am The Best” played
Throughout the concert, Park Bom touched fans by frequently mentioning 2NE1. The iconic second-generation K-pop girl group had been inactive for a long time due to various challenges.

During the event, fans eagerly anticipated hearing Park Bom perform the "super hit" "I Am The Best" live, but that didn’t seem to happen.

However, this turned out to be a surprise gift for Vietnamese fans. After announcing the concert's conclusion and bidding farewell to the audience, Park Bom suddenly returned to the stage with "I Am The Best," causing the entire auditorium to erupt in excitement.

“When ‘I Am The Best’ started playing, I and everyone around me were overwhelmed with joy. I’ve followed 2NE1 since their debut, so when Park Bom returned to Vietnam, I was ecstatic,” Nguyễn Ngọc Trâm (30 years old) shared with Tuổi Trẻ Online after attending the concert.

Following her fan event in Ho Chi Minh City, Park Bom and other members of 2NE1 will reunite in October for a concert series in Seoul (South Korea), Tokyo, and Osaka (Japan).

Park Bom, born in 1984, began her music career in 2006 with multiple collaborations with other artists at YG Entertainment.

In 2009, she officially debuted as a member of 2NE1, a group famous for hits like "I Don’t Care," "Lonely," "Go Away," and "You and I."

After 2NE1 disbanded in 2016, Park Bom left YG Entertainment. In July 2018, she signed with D-Nation Entertainment and released her debut single, "Spring", in 2019, earning impressive achievements.

After the fan concert in Vietnam, Park Bom and her 2NE1 bandmates will prepare for a series of concerts in South Korea and Japan.

Hanni's Fashion Moment at Gucci Show 2024

 

Hanni turns heads at the Gucci Show 2024

Hanni, the Vietnamese-Australian sensation from the popular K-pop group New Jeans, recently turned heads at the Gucci Show 2024 with a show-stopping outfit. The starlet's fashion choices have been a hot topic since she was announced as a global ambassador for the iconic brand. At the event, Hanni confidently rocked a sleek ensemble that perfectly blended luxury with her unique, youthful vibe. Her outfit, accessorized with bold jewellery and eye-catching details, was a nod to both modern streetwear and high-end couture.

From Small Town to Global Stardom
Born in Melbourne, Hanni’s rise to fame feels like a dream come true. During an audition in Vietnam, she was scouted by ADOR, HYBE's sub-label, and quickly became a member of NewJeans, a group known for their catchy tunes and chic fashion sense. Despite being new to the K-pop scene, Hanni’s talent and charisma have captivated fans globally. Her journey from Australia to international fame showcases her incredible work ethic and natural charm.

Fashion Icons in the Making
Hanni’s partnership with Gucci isn't just a coincidence. Her ability to blend different fashion styles effortlessly makes her a perfect fit for the brand. The Gucci Show 2024 wasn’t the first time she’s left a mark on the fashion world. Earlier this year, she was spotted at other major fashion events, where her bold choices and fearless experimentation with trends earned her a spot as one of the "Rising Fashion Icons" to watch.

Bad Movies Of The Year

 

Movies with gripping this year 🥲

‼️ Queen Of Tears loses steam as it progresses, but thankfully, Kim Ji Won and Kim Soo Hyun hold it up: One of the hottest Korean dramas earlier this year was Queen Of Tears. At first, the script seemed solid, but it gradually weakened as the writer turned the powerful tycoons into nothing more than stupid children. By the end, the big villain had such a nonsensical ending that viewers couldn't even feel satisfied.

‼️ My Demon has everything except for the script: The writer of this show should probably thank the director and producer for casting the gorgeous leads, Song Kang and Kim Yoo Jung. Without Song Kang’s good looks and Kim Yoo Jung’s elegance, which perfectly fit her role as a wealthy young lady, My Demon would have scared the audience away. The show initially introduced significant issues, like disputes over wealth in the tycoon world, but in the end, the resolution made viewers want to give up.

‼️ You Go Marry My Husband fails to live up to the original, with Park Min Young and Na In Woo carrying it. Another show that ranks among the popular Korean dramas this year is You Go Marry My Husband. At first, male lead Na In Woo received endless criticism, but in the end, he and Park Min Young were the ones who saved the drama. His handsome appearance, flawless personality, and the female lead’s beauty helped retain the audience. Meanwhile, the story itself was considered increasingly weak, as the thrilling elements of the original novel seemed strange when translated into the show.

The handsome Lee Jong Suk has just turned 35

 

Lee Jong Suk is a famous South Korean actor known for his striking looks and versatile acting roles. Turning 35 marks a significant milestone in his life and career. Over the years, he has captivated audiences with his performances in various hit dramas and films such as Pinocchio, While You Were Sleeping, and W: Two Worlds. 

His journey from a young model to a leading actor solidified his entertainment industry position. At 35, Lee Jong Suk continues to be celebrated for both his talent and his timeless charm. This age also signifies a moment where he might reflect on new career opportunities and personal growth. Fans eagerly await what the next chapter of his career will bring.

Lee Jong Suk Turns 35 – A Look Back at His Career and Impact

 Lee Jong Suk, one of South Korea’s most iconic actors, has just turned 35, and his journey in the entertainment industry is nothing short of remarkable. Known for his striking good looks and magnetic screen presence, Lee Jong Suk has become a household name in Korea and globally. As he reaches this new milestone, it’s the perfect time to reflect on his career, the roles that defined him, and his lasting impact on fans worldwide.

A Star is Born

Lee Jong Suk gained attention as a model before making his acting debut. His tall frame and model-like features quickly set him apart, but his talent and dedication to the craft helped him secure his place in the acting world. His breakthrough role came in "School 2013", where he portrayed Go Nam Soon, a high school student navigating the complexities of friendship, rivalry, and youth. The drama earned him widespread recognition, and his heartfelt performance resonated with both younger audiences and seasoned drama fans.

Versatility in Acting: From Rom-Coms to Action Thrillers

His incredible versatility sets Lee Jong Suk apart from other actors in his generation. Whether he’s playing a romantic lead or diving into complex, action-packed roles, he brings depth and authenticity to every character. One of his most iconic roles came in the fantasy romance drama "W: Two Worlds" (2016), where he played Kang Chul, a webtoon character who crossed into the real world. The drama was a huge hit, and Lee Jong Suk’s portrayal of a man grappling with his existence was praised for its emotional depth and intensity.

His ability to effortlessly switch between genres was further showcased in "While You Were Sleeping" (2017), in which he played a prosecutor who could see the future in his dreams. His chemistry with co-star Suzy and the compelling storyline captivated audiences, solidifying his position as one of Korea’s top actors.

Global Appeal and Popularity

Lee Jong Suk’s popularity extends far beyond South Korea. His dramas have been translated into multiple languages and streamed on international platforms, making him a global sensation. His fan base spans Asia, Europe, and even the Americas, with fans admiring his acting skills and humble and genuine personality off-screen. He has often expressed gratitude towards his fans, whom he credits for his success and growth.

Life Beyond Acting

Outside of his acting career, Lee Jong Suk has also become a sought-after brand ambassador for various luxury and lifestyle brands. His elegant style and charming demeanour make him a perfect fit for fashion campaigns, solidifying his status as a style icon and an actor.

Moreover, as he enters his mid-thirties, there’s a growing curiosity about how he will continue evolving both as an actor and a person. Lee Jong Suk has always been known for choosing roles that challenge him and push his limits. Fans eagerly await his upcoming projects, wondering what new sides of his talent he will reveal in the years to come.

A Promising Future Ahead

At 35, Lee Jong Suk shows no signs of slowing down. After completing his mandatory military service, he has already been involved in new projects, showing his dedication to his craft. As he continues to explore new roles and stories, both in Korea and internationally, there’s no doubt that his star will shine even brighter.

In the ever-changing world of entertainment, Lee Jong Suk’s staying power is a testament to his talent, hard work, and passion for acting. As he celebrates this milestone birthday, his fans are more excited than ever to see what the future holds for this remarkable actor.

Happy 35th birthday, Lee Jong Suk! May the years ahead bring even more success, joy, and unforgettable performances.

Typhoon Yagi Strikes Northern Vietnam, Causing Extensive Damage

 Typhoon Yagi, also known as Typhoon No. 3 in Vietnam, recently landed in the northern coastal provinces of Quang Ninh and Hai Phong, causing widespread destruction. The storm, which brought terrifyingly strong winds and heavy rains, has left a trail of damage in its wake, affecting homes, infrastructure, and coastal communities.

Destructive Winds and Torrential Rain

As Typhoon Yagi moved into Quang Ninh and Hai Phong, the cities of Ha Long and Do Son experienced the storm's full force. With wind speeds reaching between 118 and 149 km/h (level 12-13 on the Beaufort scale) and gusts up to level 16, the storm wreaked havoc on everything in its path. Countless trees were uprooted, homes damaged, and boats capsized due to the relentless winds and rain.

Reports from local authorities indicate that many residential areas, particularly in coastal regions, were severely affected. Infrastructure, including roads, power lines, and public buildings, also suffered extensive damage, making recovery efforts even more challenging.

Coastal Communities at Risk

The storm posed significant risks to coastal communities, especially fishermen and those near the shore. Several fishing boats were damaged or sunk, and many coastal areas were flooded, displacing residents and disrupting daily life. The authorities have been working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide aid to those affected.

Official Weather Reports and Warnings

At 2:00 PM on the day of landfall, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting provided critical information on Typhoon Yagi’s trajectory. The center of the storm was located at approximately 20.9 degrees North latitude and 106.9 degrees East longitude, just off the coast of Quang Ninh and Hai Phong. The storm’s power was well-documented, with forecasters warning that the strong winds and heavy rains would continue to impact the region for several hours.

Authorities had already issued warnings and evacuated residents from high-risk areas before the storm hit. However, the strength of Typhoon Yagi took many by surprise, and efforts to safeguard lives and property are ongoing.

Response and Recovery

Local governments in Quang Ninh and Hai Phong have mobilized emergency teams to clear roads, restore electricity, and relieve affected residents. Rescue operations are also underway for fishermen and others caught in the sea storm. In addition, aid agencies provide food, water, and shelter for those displaced by the storm.

The Vietnamese government is coordinating with local authorities to ensure that recovery efforts proceed as quickly as possible. However, with extensive damage to infrastructure and residential areas, full recovery may take time.

Conclusion

Typhoon Yagi’s impact on Vietnam’s northern provinces is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness. As communities begin to rebuild, the nation again shows resilience in the face of disaster. The swift response of local authorities and the support of the Vietnamese government will be critical in helping those affected by the storm recover and rebuild their lives.

Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and follow any further instructions as the recovery efforts continue.

Buying a Slave

"Buying a Slave," painted in 1857 by Jean-Léon Gérôme, is a masterpiece that encapsulates both the allure and critique of the Orientalism movement. This painting, a striking depiction of a slave market in the East, centers on the unsettling image of a naked woman displayed before a group of men. Gérôme's attention to detail is extraordinary, capturing not just the clothing and expressions of the figures but also the intricate surroundings, immersing viewers in the scene with a sense of vivid realism.

This painting is particularly intriguing in how it reflects the complex attitudes of 19th-century Europe. During this era, there was a fascination with the so-called 'exotic' cultures of the East, yet it was also a time of growing awareness and criticism of human rights abuses. Gérôme’s work serves as both a reflection of the Western gaze on foreign cultures and a condemnation of the brutality of slavery. The painting subtly critiques the dehumanization inherent in the slave trade, forcing viewers to confront the harsh realities of the time.

In addition to its social commentary, "Buying a Slave" offers a glimpse into the broader context of 19th-century art and society. The period was marked by the height of European colonial expansion, where art often mirrored the imperialist attitudes and the moral dilemmas of the age. Gérôme’s work not only stands as a piece of historical art but also as a thought-provoking commentary on the intersections of art, culture, and politics. This painting gives us insight into the conflicting emotions and ethical questions that characterized the century, making "Buying a Slave" a powerful reminder of the past and its enduring relevance.