October - December 2018

THE CHAM LEGACY IN VIETNAM

DINING FOR A CAUSE

THE CONTRASTS OF PHNOM PENH BY FOOT

Newsletter October - December 2018 | 1

Foreword Dear Valued Travel Partners, swath of land. Even today, there are many areas Greetings from Indochina! Time flies and we have throughout central and south-central Vietnam where already arrived at the last quarter of 2018. At Vidotour, visitors can see the remains of Cham temples and we remain busy serving our clients, and we are other structures, and the museum in Da Nang is a eternally thankful to you, our valued partners, for wonderful place to learn even more about the art of the many productive business relationships that we this culture. have established over the years. In related news, Vidotour was recently honoured by the government In this Newsletter we would also like to focus on of Thua Thien Hue Province in central Vietnam for the two dining venues of Noir and Blanc in Saigon. our commitment to tourism development in this area. These two concepts are in the same building, yet Vidotour has been committed to developing superb focus on different things. Noir is dining in the dark travel products for over 20 years, and our aim is to and the servers are visually impaired. Meanwhile, continue doing so as we move into the future. the servers at Blanc are hearing impaired and guests here must focus on communication in different and In this final edition of our Newsletter for 2018, we are visual ways. Most importantly, both of these venues proud to highlight some products and experiences offer meaningful employment to people with different that show our leading edge in the travel industry in the abilities. region. First of all is a new walking tour in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Walking tours of course are nothing new, We are looking forward to reconnecting with many but the highlights here are the contrasts that guests are of you at WTM in London this November, as well exposed to. From informal wet markets to shining new as excited to make new connections. Wishing you skyscrapers, the extreme contrasts are what make this a wonderful holiday season and final few months of excursion unique. 2018! And as always, I look forward to welcoming you in Indochina soon. Another article in this Newsletter focuses on some of the highlights of Cham heritage which remain in central Sincerely, and south-central Vietnam. The Cham states formerly ruled this area for over a thousand years, and their Nguyen Tuyet Mai culture and heritage has forever impacted this large President & CEO

4 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 5 Highlights 08

The Cham Legacy in Vietnam 14 Dining for a cause

20 24 The Contrasts of Promotions Phnom Penh by Foot 30 32 Travel news Hotels- Resorts- Cruises 36 38 Transportation Vidotour corner

6 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 7 The Cham Legacy in Vietnam

The Cham people are an ethnic minority concentrated in Vietnam and Cambodia. While they are a small subset of the population in Vietnam, their legacy has made a lasting impression, especially in sites along the central and south-central coast of the country.

It is generally agreed upon by historians that the Cham people originally made their way to the mainland via the sea from the island of Borneo. With a culture and tradition of seafaring, the Cham people generally settled near the coast.

The Cham people formed Champa, a large political entity that at its peak stretched from modern central Vietnam to south-central Vietnam, mostly along the coast. Champa was a force in the region for over 1600 years, with its peak of power in the 9th and 10th centuries before declining. The last Cham state was formally annexed by Vietnamese Emperor Minh Mang in 1832.

However, many of the cities that the Cham founded remain and are now flourishing. And their religious monuments inspire awe wherever they are found throughout Vietnam. My Son

Of all the relics of Cham culture throughout Vietnam, My Son is the largest and most awe-inspiring. Built in a secluded valley approximately 40km from Hoi An (originally a Cham settlement), the group of around 70 temples was built starting in the 4th century. While some of the larger monuments have been restored, many still lie in ruins. Interestingly, the temples at My Son reflect the influence of Hinduism and Sanskrit on the Cham culture. The temple complex at My Son was named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

8 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 9 Banh It Po Nagar

The Banh It Temple complex is The four towers in the Po Nagar a collection of four brick towers complex are some of the most set on a hill about 16km north easily accessible of all Cham of the coastal city of Quy Nhon. relics due to the fact that they It is thought that all four of the are located within the city of structures were built around the Nha Trang. It is thought that the turn of the 12th century. The views site originally had seven or eight from the the hilltop complex are towers, but the number now is dramatic and allow for a panoramic four. The Po Nagar complex is view of the surrounding area. still an active place of worship, and visitors are reminded to be respectful. The four towers here are also in varying stages of restoration.

10 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 11 Po Klong Garai Museum of Cham Sculpture

Located in the province known as Phan Rang along the south-central Vietnamese coast, the Po Klong Garai This museum of Cham artifacts was founded by French colonialists in the early 20th century, and Temple origin’s are legendary in nature. According to the legend, King Klong Garai challenged an invading construction of the first building was completed in 1919. The museum in Da Nang has expanded over the Khmer king to a tower building competition instead of battle and then prevailed, therefore compelling the Khmer years, and now houses the world’s largest collection of Cham sculptures and artifacts. Sculptures and army to return to their land. The legend may only be a myth, but the complex is a remarkable site for visitors to artifacts in the museum are divided by province of origin so that visitors can see regional characteristics of see Cham relics up close. the artwork as well.

12 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 13 Dining for a cause

Tucked into a side alley off of one of downtown Saigon’s busiest streets are the unique dining venues of Noir and Blanc. In addition to their delicious dining fare, what truly sets these restaurants apart from all others in Saigon are their unique concepts and the employment opportunities that they create for those with different abilities.

Both set in a former residence from the French colonial era, Noir and Blanc are two different dining concepts set in different spaces within the building. Cuisine is a delectable fusion of Vietnamese, Asian and Western styles, and any dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Both of these unique dining experiences are what truly set Noir and Blanc in another strata of dining in Saigon.

14 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 15 Noir is a “dining in the dark” concept, where guests will be attended to by servers that are blind or visually impaired. Guests are asked to leave phones and any other light-emitting Meanwhile, Blanc is a dining venue devices outside of the dining room in secure that asks guests to focus less on lockers. The dining area is pitch black, and guests auditory senses and more on sight. cannot see their hand in front of their face. In At Blanc, guests are served by staff this environment, diners will be able to focus on that are deaf or hearing impaired. The the flavours and textures of the delicious food menu is in English, Vietnamese, and that they are served. Wine connoisseurs will be also has sign language so that guests challenged to correctly identify what is in their can literally try their hand at ordering glass. And afterwards, there will be a chance to in a way that may be completely look at the menu to see what was actually served new to them. Ear plugs are also and if guests identified it correctly. available to guests who may want to experience less auditory stimulation, but these are completely optional. The joy at Blanc comes from the interaction between guests and the staff, who are keen to communicate and accommodate.

16 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 17 Despite recent economic development and rising standards of living in Vietnam, the truth is that the overwhelming majority of visually impaired and hearing impaired people in the country struggle to find meaningful employment. Noir and Blanc offer employment opportunities for people with visual and hearing impairments that are not available in other hospitality venues in the region.

Guests visiting Noir or Blanc are directly supporting employment for people with different abilities in Saigon and the larger nearby area, and further supporting the trend of providing meaningful work for those who previously thought that visual and hearing impairments would lead to a life of unemployment. In addition to directly providing employment, Noir and Blanc also help to improve the confidence and dignity of the staff who serve there.

Vidotour is proud to support Noir and Blanc as truly unique venues in the bustling metropolis of Saigon. In addition to the amazing and unique concepts that make dining a completely different experience, these venues provide dignified support to people who may have otherwise faced challenges in finding employment.

18 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 19 The Contrasts of Phnom Penh by Foot

Cambodia’s capital is a city of contrasts. There are contrasts between old and new, large and small, and rich and poor. It is an ancient city with legendary origins that experienced a period of decline, and now is prospering again. Even with the increasing number of visitors in recent years, there are many areas of the city that remain hidden from the eyes of guests. In this newly developed walking tour, guests are invited to see some of the amazing contrasts in Phnom Penh.

Guests will meet at La Rose Suites, a luxury boutique hotel, and depart. Duck down a quiet and nondescript lane to emerge in an alley that some of the capital’s poorest call home. Cramped and small shelters serve as houses here. Wind through the maze of these hidden allies to find a small local temple hidden to most visitors. Here, there are areas where people sell all kinds of interesting snacks,

20 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 21 atmosphere, street food snacks, and unwind after a long day. After all of the walking through the contrasts of the city, guests will arrive back at the point of departure: La Rose Suites, where they can enjoy a such as duck embryo eggs, coconut pudding cake, fried grasshoppers, and grilled delicious and authentic Khmer meal while they contemplate the many chicken wings, as well as many others. There are areas in these allies that function sights that they have just witnessed in this incredible city. as small markets, where fresh produce, as well as meat and seafood are available.

Near this area is a small shop that sells espadrilles for warm weather wear, the highlight of which are the accents made from traditional Khmer woven fabric. The people in the shop will share with guests about this unique concept and how the shoes are made and how the work supports local workers from low-income backgrounds. Nearby is another small wooden building with some chairs and tables where volunteers teach the local children English on weekdays. Guests are welcome to chat with the teacher and learn more about the students as well. On the weekends, the classroom becomes a small study library where guests can stop by for a visit, too.

Continuing through the winding alleys, guests will emerge from the alley system to encounter the contrasts of this area: Gleaming skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and new apartment buildings are all just a few steps away from the alley slums, separated by just a brick wall. Continuing the walk through downtown Phnom Penh, guests will pass by a river channel and park where the local people gather to enjoy the

22 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 23 VIETNAM Four Seasons Resort Low Season Bonus Night Offer 01 Sep 18 - 22 Dec 18 The Nam Hai / Hoi An

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Regarded as the pride of the charming Western, Vinpearl Hotel Nam Nghi Phu Quoc Bonus Night 01 Nov 18 - 31 Oct 19 Can Tho is situated in the vibrant shopping complex, offers sweeping views over the romantic city and Hau River. Located in the heart of Can Tho and adjacent to Ninh Kieu pier, visitors Early Bird 01 Nov 18 - 31 Oct 19 can easily accessible to all the local attractions.

No 209, 30/4 Road, Xuan Khanh Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho, Viet Nam | T: (+84) 292 376 1888 Salinda Phu Quoc Early Bird 01 Nov 18 - 31 Oct 19

26 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 27 Lac Long Quan Street, Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam Tel: +84 235 3 927 927 - Email: [email protected] www.palmgardenresort.com.vn

28 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 29 the local authorities, more financial resources golden strand between two hands of gods. new visa exemptions will be valid at nearly are needed to manage the World Heritage The Ba Na Hills is a large development from all points of entry, including the Yangon, Travel news Site as demands for services, environment Vietnam’s Sun Group, and is a 15-minute Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw Airports, as well protection and security is higher than ever. cable car ride up the mountain. Guests can as overland crossings on the Indian and Please contact your travel consultant if you visit the Golden Bridge as a day trip from Da Thai borders. have any concerns regarding this matter Nang or Hoi An, and overnight options are also available at the Ba Na Hills Mercure. Cambodia 44 New Caves Discovered in Phong Landmine Museum Closed Until Nha-Ke Bang National Park Coastal Route Named One of Asia’s Further Notice New caves continue to be discovered in Best The Landmine Museum located in Siem the north-central destination of Phong Nha- The coastal road connecting Nha Trang Reap has been closed until further notice. Ke Bang National Park. Local authorities to Quy Nhon along the south-central For affected bookings, our staff will be are stressing the need to fully explore and Vietnamese coast has been named one of reaching out directly. To date, there have study the newly-discovered caves in order the most spectacular in Asia by Tripsavvy. been no updates posted regarding the to preserve and protect them. The national The publication noted the stunning blue sea museum’s reopening. Please contact your park is home to the world’s largest cave, on one side of the road, while mountains and travel consultant if you have any concerns Son Doong, and is expecting to welcome forests abound on the other. In addition, the regarding this matter. 3.5 million visitors this year. route has the longest mountain pass in the country and there are many pristine beaches Restoration of Bayon Temple to Hue to Restore Royal Palace along the way. Continue The local People’s Committee recently The Japanese and Cambodia governments announced funding to restore a section of the Con Dao Museum Opens in Vung Tau have allocated $1.5 million to the fifth phase Kien Trung Palace inside the former Imperial The Con Dao archipelago off of Vietnam’s of the restoration of the Bayon Temple in City in Hue. The restoration project will be southeastern coast is administered by Siem Reap Province. This phase of the based on old photographs and drawings, and the province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau on the restoration will be focused on studying and will cover two storeys. This will be the first mainland. And recently the Con Dao Museum restoring the central structure of the temple, restoration since the palace was destroyed opened in the city of Vung Tau. In addition to as well as the many sculptures reflecting in 1947, and it is set for completion in 2020. showcasing the flora and fauna of the islands, daily life in the late 12th century. Phase five The palace was built with a mixture of French, the museum emphasizes the experiences of of the restoration of Bayon Temple is slated Italian Renaissance and old Vietnamese Vietnamese people in the Con Dao Prison, for completion by 2020. Vietnam architectural styles by King Khai Dinh in 1923 which was constructed by the French in Lotus Water Puppet Theatre Adds fifth through eighth rows have increased Hanoi Hosts Street Carnival on the site of an older pavilion. 1861. Performances by 50%, effective 1 October. For all other The Vietnamese held a street carnival with The Lotus Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi rows, ticket prices remain unchanged. Please the theme “The Quintessence of Ha Noi– Hue’s Nighttime Performance “Royal Myanmar has added a new daily performance to its contact your travel consultant if you have any confluence and Shine” to mark the tenth Inspiration” Temporarily Suspended Indian-Myanmar Land Border Opens schedule, and made some time adjustments concerns regarding this matter. anniversary of the capital expanding its The cultural performance meant to give in Sagaing Region to existing performances. From 1 November, administrative boundary. Thousands of visitors a taste of imperial entertainment After both sides reached an agreement in there will be performances at 2:45 p.m., Hanoi’s Open-Top Buses Increases artisans, folk artists and students performed in the evening has been suspended until May, the two border crossings were opened 4 p.m., 5:15 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Each Service Time a variety of traditional dances, with an further notice. Royal Inspiration, which also on 9 August. The Tamu-Moreh and the performance lasts approximately 50 minutes On 1 August, Hanoi’s open-top double- emphasis on the Vietnamese traditional included a reenactment of changing of the Rihkhawdar-Zowkhawtar checkpoints are and showcases Vietnamese culture in older decker buses began running until 8:30 dress. guards, will continue to improve the quality now open to all residents of both countries, days. p.m. to meet the needs of travellers in the of the performance at which time it will be and additionally open to other passport Vietnamese capital. People wishing to use Fees in Ha Long Bay Set to Increase reinstated. Any updates will be published holders with valid visas. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre the service can pay for individual rides, or Beginning on 1 January, 2019, basic fees in a future edition of the Vidotour eNews. Raises Prices for Premium Tickets for tickets that are valid for 24- or 48-hour for visiting Ha Long Bay will increase. Fees Myanmar Announces New Visa Considered a must-do for visitors to Hanoi, periods. The 13 stops on the bus route for day trips will increase 20%, while fees Vietnam’s Golden Bridge Goes Viral Exemptions the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre has pass by 30 attractions, and the narration for overnight trips will increase by up to Perched in the Ba Na Hills above Vietnam’s From 1 October onward, travellers from raised ticket prices for the first eight rows systems are in English and a number of other 80%. These sightseeing fees are a standard third largest city of Da Nang lies the country’s Japan, South Korea, Macao and Hong of seating. Tickets in the first four rows languages. In the first six months of the year, part of every trip to Ha Long Bay and are newest viral attraction: The Golden Bridge. Kong travelling to Myanmar will enjoy visa- have increased 100%, and tickets in the passenger numbers are up 102 percent. usually factored into pricing. According to A 150-metre long span made to look like a exemption for a period of 30 days. The

30 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 31 owner’s personal collection. salon. After years of operations, the hotel a local construction firm in Laos to assume needs an upgrade in its facilities and service management of three properties in the nation Hotels - Restaurants - Cruises Zazz Hotels & Resorts to Open in Saigon and it looks like this change in ownership will by 2020, including two in Luang Prabang The upscale brand, owned by Asia Prestige make this happen soon. Silk Path Hotels & and one in the capital of Vientiane. The three Management, will make its Vietnam debut Resort is a Hanoi-based hospitality company properties are slated to operate under three Vietnam in the first quarter of 2019. The property is that also operates Silk Path Hotel Hanoi, Silk distinct brands as well. This latest deal will Vinpearl Launches Four New City Hotels as of 1 August, 2018. Located in the Valley BHMA Expands to Vietnam slated to feature an urban oasis theme for its Path Boutique Hotel Hanoi and Silk Path bring the total number of Centara-managed On 15 September, the Vietnamese hospitality of Sapa, the Topas Riverside Lodge offers The hotel management company owned 40 rooms, as well as an outdoor swimming Grand Resort & Spa Sapa. properties in Laos to four. developer opened four new properties in an authentic experience of a traditional by Flight Centre Travel Group has opened pool and co-working space. Two F&B outlets cities throughout the country. The new city minority village. Most guests find their stay an its first property in Vietnam in Viet Tri, the at the property will be available to guests, Hoi An Eco Lodge & Spa Adds Rooms Cambodia hotels are of a five-star standard and are all excellent opportunity to indulge themselves capital of Phu Tho Province. The X2 Vibe and a smartphone app will allow guests to The property, which opened in January of this Prince Times Opens in Sihanoukville centrally located. The new hotels are located in warm hospitality while exploring cultural Viet Tri Hotel, located just 60km from Noi make reservations and custom requests. year, has recently added 15 rooms located The brand new property is now open for in Hue, Quang Binh, Thanh Hoa and Lang values and customs of the local minorities Bai Airport, is situated on the shore of Van in a new section of the hotel across the guests in the coastal destination. The hotel Son. The properties feature from 127 to 295 and discovering the beautiful natural settings Lang Lake. Featuring 60 rooms at a four- Paradise Vietnam Opening Two New street from the existing rooms. The 15 new was constructed over the past 15 months rooms and all have multiple F&B outlets. of Sapa and its vicinity. star standard, the property also has three Dining Venues rooms are at a more premium level than the and features 193 rooms over 29,000 square F&B outlets. Following the success of its Ngon and initial rooms, and furthermore the property metres. Amenities include multiple swimming Hoang Su Phi Lodge Now Open in Ha Melia Ba Vi Retreat Opens Home branded dining venues, the hospitality is planning to open a gym and spa by the pools, a gym and even a helipad. The Giang Ba Vi National Park, a two-hour drive from Thanh Lich Hotel Announces Completion company is opening Ngon Villa Hoi An on end of the year. The Hoi An Ecolodge & property is owned by a Chinese development New accommodation is now open in Hanoi, is now home to Melia Ba Vi Retreat. of Upgrades and Expansion 24 September and Home Moc Hanoi on Spa is nestled in a tranquil part of the Hoi firm in Cambodia. Vietnam’s northernmost province of Ha The 55-key property features six classes of The property in the central city of Hue 10 October. Both of the outlets will be An Countryside. Giang: the Hoang Su Phi Lodge. Featuring rooms, suites and villas, and all overlook lush has announced that their expansion and in central and accessible locations and Myanmar a homestay-style lodge with accommodation and natural surroundings. Two F&B outlets at upgrades are nearing completion. The Thanh feature authentic Vietnamese flavours with Little Riverside Hoi An Now Open Grand Mercure Yangon Golden Empire of up to 12, as well as private bungalows Melia Ba Vi Retreat offer a range of local and Lich Royal Boutique Hotel Hue has added a contemporary twists. Both of the venues The new property in Hoi An is the newest Now Open built from bamboo and thatched with international fare for guests. The highlight new annex, and additionally upgraded their will have vintage decor with bright modern addition of the Little Group, and is located This upscale property is located in Yangon coconut leaves. The property aims to let of the property is the numerous outdoor original rooms all up to a four-star standard. touches. near Hoi An’s Old Quarter along the banks in the Dagon Industrial Zone to serve the travellers experience the lifestyle of the ethnic activities available to guests in the national The property will begin welcoming guests of the Thu Bon River. The property features needs of both business and leisure travellers. minorities in the area, and also offers multi- park. Meditation and holistic experiences are to the upgraded and expanded property Pilgrimage Village Hue Announces 42 rooms with decorated in the style of The Grand Mercure Yangon Golden Empire day packages including excursions to the also available at the property, a first for Melia. on 1 October. Upgrades old colonial charm. Facilities at the Little features 175 guest rooms, including a number surrounding area. The Property in the central city of Hue has Riverside Hoi An include an all-day dining of non-smoking rooms and options for Super Hotel to Rebrand as Hotel Le Carnot The Nam Hai to Close Family Pool for recently announced that they will feature a restaurant, a rooftop pool overlooking the travellers with limited mobility. A restaurant, Azure Sapa Hotel Makes Debut The property will rebrand, effective on 1 Repairs heated pool, slated to open on 15 December. Thu Bon River, a gym, spa, free bike rental bar and unique meeting facilities are other This newly opened four-star property is October, as Hotel Le Carnot. The former The Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai The pool will be 27m by 6m and regulated at and a free shuttle bus to An Bang Beach. amenities at the property. located right in the centre of the town name of the property is Super Hotel Hanoi has announced that the family pool at the a warm temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. This is the Little Group’s fifth property, all of Sapa within walking distance of such Old Quarter, and the property will discontinue property will be closed for repairs from 22 Pilgrimage Village is also introducing a of which are in Hoi An. New Eco Resort Open in Mergui attractions as the central Stone Church, using this name starting in October. The October to 5 December. During this time, the new room type: Hue Traditional Villas. The Archipelago Mount Ham Rong and Sapa Lake. The property’s website and email addresses lap pool and the Olympic pool will remain property will open 14 of these villas also on Reverie Saigon Voted Among Best in Asia The Awei Pila is a brand new eco luxury hotel features 80 elegantly designed and will change, but otherwise the management available to guests at the property. The 15 December, and they will have access to The Reverie Saigon has been voted one beachfront resort located on the island of Pila furnished rooms most with windows and and structure of the property will remain management has committed to limiting noise the heated pool as well. A new lobby bar of the Top 10 Luxury Hotels in Asia by in the Mergui Archipelago in the Andaman balconies overlooking the beautiful Muong unchanged. and disruptions during the repair process. at the property is also now open for drinks readers of Smart Travel Asia, an online Sea. The property is set in a secluded bay Hoa Valley or the downtown Sapa. Its Wild Please contact your travel consultant if you along with live piano music four nights per publication. The property is located in a with 600m of beachfront, with virgin jungle Orchid Restaurant serves both Asian and Pelican Group Launches New Cruise: have any concerns regarding this matter. week. prime destination in central Saigon, featuring surrounding the resort. The Awei Pila has 26 Western cuisine while the Normad Bar and Peony amazing views of the surrounding city and rooms and was designed to be low impact. Rooftop Lounge are ideal venues for guests The group which operates several cruise Bach Suites Welcoming Guests in Saigon Silk Path Hotels & Resorts Acquires Green nearby river. Featuring 286 rooms and suites, Facilities at the property include a restaurant, to unwind. The hotel also has a spa and a brands on Ha Long Bay has launched The boutique property in the heart of Hotel Hue the Reverie’s concept is that of extravagant bar and swimming pool, and a number of fitness centre. another brand to add to its portfolio: Peony downtown Saigon opened earlier this year. The hospitality group recently announced opulence in an Asian setting. adventure activities are available to guests. Cruises. The first vessel launched on 18 Featuring 36 rooms over three classes at their acquisition of the Green Hotel Hue. Nam Cang Riverside Lodge renamed October, with a second vessel to begin a five-star standard, the property seeks to The 199-key property is located near the Laos Topas Riverside Lodge service on 10 December. The boats each transport guests back to the 1970s with all Perfume River and within walking distance of Centara Inks Deal for Three Properties The lodge, run by Topas Travel in partnership have 20 cabins across five classes, and of the modern conveniences. Additionally, the train station. It features five F&B outlets, in Laos with a Red Dao family, has been rebranded feature one- and two-night itineraries. the property is decorated with art from the a fitness club, an outdoor swimming pool, The chairman of Thai-based hospitality conference facilities, a spa and a beauty group Centara recently signed a deal with 32 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 33 Vidotour seat-in-coach tour

Highlights of Vietnam 9 DAYS . 8 NIGHTS Highlights of Cambodia 5 DAYS . 4 NIGHTS Brief Itinerary Brief Itinerary Day 1 Sat Phnom Penh . Arrival . Day 1 Fri Arrival in Hanoi Day 6 Wed Hue . Boat cruise . Hoi An . Walking tour (Breakfast) Day 2 Sun Phnom Penh . Siem Reap (Breakfast) Day 2 Sat Hanoi half day sightseeing (Breakfast) Day 7 Thu Hoi An . Da Nang . Flight to HCMC (Breakfast) Day 3 Mon Siem Reap . Angkor Complex (Breakfast) Day 3 Sun Hanoi . Ha Long Bay (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Day 8 Fri HCMC half day sightseeing (Breakfast) Day 4 Tue Siem Reap (Breakfast) Day 4 Mon Ha Long Bay . Hanoi . Night train to Hue (Breakfast or Brunch) Day 9 Sat HCMC . Departure (Breakfast) Day 5 Wed Siem Reap . Departure (Breakfast) Day 5 Tue Hue arrival . half day sightseeing (Lunch) List of Hotels List of Hotels

Destination Hotel Category . Superior Destination Hotel Category . First class Destination Hotel Category . Superior Destination Hotel Category. First class PHNOM PENH Silver River Hotel (Standard room) or similar PHNOM PENH Ohana hotel (Deluxe room) or similar HANOI La Rosa (Deluxe room) or similar HANOI Mercure Hanoi (Standard room) or similar www.silverriverhotel.com www.ohanahotelpp.com www.hanoilarosahotel.com www.mercure.com SIEM RIEP Mother Home Inn (Superior room) or similar SIEM RIEP Angkor Holiday (Superior room) or similar HA LONG Bai Tho Junk (Dlx_SIC) or similar HA LONG Bai Tho Victory Junk (Superior _SIC) or similar www.motherhomeinn.com www.angkorholidayhotel.com www.baithojunks.com www.baithojunks.com

HUE Thanh Lich 2 (ROH) or similar (59 Vo Thi Sau) HUE Park View (Superior room) or similar

www.thanhlichhotel.com.vn www.parkviewhotelhue.com Departure Dates

HOI AN Hoi An Rose Garden (ROH) or similar HOI AN Silk Luxury (ROH) or similar From Nov 2018 to Oct 2019 - 1 DEPARTURE A MONTH (ON SATURDAY)

www.hoianrosegarden.com www.silkluxuryhotels.com 24 . Nov . 18 15 . Dec . 18 19 . Jan . 19 23 . Feb . 19 23 . Mar . 19 20 . Apr . 19 HO CHI MINH CITY Lavender (ROH) or similar HO CHI MINH CITY Vissai (Deluxe room) or similar

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Departure Dates PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FULL ITINERARIES AND RATES HO CHI MINH HEAD OFFICE : From Nov 2018 to Oct 2019 - 1 DEPARTURE A MONTH (ON FRIDAY) a. 145 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam t. +84 (0)28 3933 0457 f. +84 (0)28 3933 0470 16 . Nov . 18 07 . Dec . 18 11 . Jan . 19 15 . Feb . 19 15 . Mar . 19 12 . Apr . 19 e. [email protected]

17 . May . 19 14 . Jun . 19 12 . Jul . 19 16 . Aug . 19 20 . Sep . 19 18 . Oct . 19

34 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 35 travel and transfers. Importantly, the new and Sunday. This marks AirAsia’s 59th unique codeshare will allow Emirates passengers to route, and its fifth to Vietnam. easily transfer to 14 destinations in Vietnam. Transportation Also, for travel originating in Vietnam, the new Newly Expanded Terminal Now Open in agreement will allow more simple transfers for Vientiane other international connections. In early August, the new terminal at Wattay International Airport was handed over to the KC Airlines Receives Approval and Starts Lao Airports Authority. The new facility can Service now handle 2.3 million international arrivals The new Sino-Khmer joint venture received its per year, approximately nine times the airport’s Air Operator Certificate in August and began previous capacity. The international terminal serving domestic and international routes the has now doubled in size to 25,000sqm. same month. The first domestic routes for the The Lao government expects the number airline connect Phnom Penh with Siem Reap of international arrivals by air to reach 1.51 and Sihanoukville, while the first international million by 2023. route is from Sihanoukville to Da Nang, with a layover in Macau. More international routes are to launch before the end of the year.

Tan Son Nhat Airport to Expand; Timeline Unclear Vietnam’s busiest airport will expand by up to 290ha in the future, although a detailed timeline and/or details have not been announced at this time. Expansion plans call for larger aprons and cargo facilities, as well as a new passenger terminal to handle increasing traveller numbers. The proposed new terminal would expand capacity at the airport to 50 million passengers Vietnam Airlines Debuts In-Town Check-In to 2 hours and 45 minutes. The $116 million years of construction and a cost of $1.63 has announced that Da Nang International by 2025. The current capacity of Tan Son Service project was built on a build-operate-transfer billion. The new expressway allows speeds Airport has been rated the highest, followed Nhat is 25 million passengers, but the airport The national flag carrier has added another (BOT) model. of up to 120km per hour, and cuts travel time by Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport and then Saigon’s handled 36 million travellers in 2017. check-in option to its repertoire: in-town between the two destinations from three hours Tan San Nhat. Some of the highest ratings check-in service. Available only in Hanoi and Ha Long Expressway to Open at End of to 1.5 hours. for Da Nang Airport were for the attitude and Cebu Airlines Increases Capacity on Manilla- Da Nang for domestic flights as of now, the August service of the airport staff. Saigon Route service charges a small fee to arrange baggage A link joining Ha Long to an existing expressway Dien Bien Airport Eyes Expansion The low-cost-carrier has acquired several new pick up and transferring boarding passes to in the northeastern part of the country has The airport in northwest Vietnam near the Lao Qatar to Launch Direct Da Nang Flights in Airbus A321 aircraft with increased capacity passengers. With this new service, Vietnam shortened travel time between Hanoi and border is on track for a substantial expansion December which it will deploy on the Manilla-Saigon route. Airlines aims to allow passengers additional Ha Long Bay. The $556 million project has over the next years. Dien Bien Airport is Starting on 19 December, Da Nang will be The new aircraft have 50 more seats compared time for exploring the cities of Da Nang and decreased the distance between Hanoi and expected to have the capacity for 300,000 Qatar Airways third destination in Vietnam. to the Airbus A320 currently used on the route. Hanoi. Ha Long Bay to 130km. Guests who finish their passengers annually by 2020, and two million Qatar will provide the nonstop service four Cebu Airlines offers service between Manilla overnight cruises in Ha Long Bay will now need passengers by 2030. As the airport grows in times per week, served with a Boeing 787-8 and Saigon 10 times per week, and the new Newly-Opened Highway Cuts Travel Time to book earlier flights from Hanoi’s airport or capacity, additionally flights throughout the aircraft. Qatar Airways launched service to aircraft will be initially deployed on three of to Mai Chau schedule additional visits or excursions to avoid nation will follow as well. Additional details, Ho Chi Minh City in 2007, and Hanoi in 2010. these routes to increase capacity. The Hoa Lac-Hoa Binh Highway was opened long waiting times before departing flights. such as price and a timeline for expansion, to traffic on 10 October, cutting travel time have not been revealed at this time. Emirates and Jetstar Pacific Announce AirAsia Launches Phu Quoc Flights from Hanoi to the province of Hoa Binh in half Da Nang-Quang Ngai Expressway Now Open Codeshare Service connecting Kuala Lumpur and the island to one hour. Additionally, the new highway for Traffic Da Nang Voted Best Airport in Vietnam The Dubai-based carrier and low-cost-carrier of Phu Quoc commenced on 2 November. The will cut travel time from Hanoi to the popular The 139km, four-lane expressway officially After surveying 21,000 travellers in Vietnam, Jetstar Pacific in Vietnam have announced low-cost-carrier will initiallyserve the route four destination of Mai Chau down from 3.5 hours opened for traffic on 2 September after five the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) a codeshare agreement, meant to simplify times per week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday

36 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 37 VidotourVIDOTOUR CORNER corner

Understanding the Heart Joins to Raise Funds for Heart Surgeries

The Understanding the Heart Foundation jointly organized a fundraising golf event called Swing for the Heart at Laguna Lang Co. With the participation of Vietnam’s top celebrities, the event raised $600,000 which is meant to fund heart surgery for 60 children with heart disease from poor families in central Vietnam. Vidotour is a proud sponsor of Understanding the Heart Foundation and we are keen to give back to the community in this meaningful way.

Vidotour Recognized by Hue People’s Committee The People’s Committee recently recognized Vidotour as a tour operator that has contributed to the tourism development of the city and province. Vidotour has been operating in Hue for over 20 years, and is committed to bringing more international visitors to this must-see destination in central Vietnam. The Province of Thua Thien-Hue has welcomed almost 3.5 million visitors in the first nine months of 2018.

Vidotour Holds Annual Guide Training With the high travel season for Vietnam on the horizon, Vidotour held annual guide training in all regions of Vietnam. Our guides play an essential role in the guest experience, and it is vital that they are prepared in order to perform their best. The Vidotour guide training sessions were followed by familiarization trips for guides and office staff to learn more about the products that Vidotour has on offer.

Vidotour Celebrates Vietnamese Women’s Day Vietnamese Women’s Day on 20 October was a day to show appreciation to the female staff at the Vidotour offices throughout Vietnam. The celebrations and activities varied by location, but all were meant to highlight the female staff that do so much for the company and play a critical role in our development.

Vidotour Observers Mid-Autumn Festival The offices in Saigon, Hue and Hanoi celebrated the Mid- Autumn Festival with a party specifically for the children of the staff. In addition to a party for all, there was a lion dance and awards for children who have excellent grades at school.

38 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Newsletter October - December 2018 | 39 HO CHI MINH CITY HEAD OFFICE 145 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. t: +84 (0)28 3933 0457 f: +84 (0)28 3933 0470 e: [email protected] w: www.vidotour.com

HA NOI HUE 49 Ngo Quyen Street, 10 Tran Thuc Nhan Street Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi Vietnam. Hue, Vietnam. t: +84 (0)24 3734 5429 t: +84 (0)234 382 4813 f: +84 (0)24 3734 5430 f: +84 (0)234 382 4815 e: [email protected] e: [email protected]

DA NANG PHAN THIET 760 Tran Cao Van Street 65 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street Thanh Khe District, Da Nang, Vietnam. Ham Tien Ward, Phan Thiet, Vietnam. t: +84 (0)236 371 2790 t: +84 (0)252 384 7699 f: +84 (0)236 371 2791 f: +84 (0)252 384 7727 e: [email protected] e: [email protected]

PHU QUOC VIENTIANE Ward 1, Duong To Hamlet, Phu Quoc District, Phay Nam Road, Xiengyuen Village, Chanthabouly District, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam. Vientiane Capital, Laos. t: +84 961 790 439 t: +856 (0)21 241 989 e: [email protected] f: +856 (0)21 241 990 e: [email protected]

PHNOM PENH SIEM REAP No. 7, Mao Tse Tung Boulevard, Sangkat Boeung Keng Kang I 153, Street 6 (Airport Road), Sangkat Svay Dangkom Khan Chamkarmorn, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Khan Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Cambodia. t: +855 (0)23 987 876 t: +855 (0)63 963 686 f: +855 (0)23 210 531 f: +855 (0)63 963 687 e: [email protected] e: [email protected]

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40 | Newsletter October - December 2018 Redefined Luxury

2 days and 1 night aboard one of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises from VND 7,900,000 per night