SUMMARY Area: 3,324.92 sq km Population: 6,448.900 (April 2011). Administrative divisions:10 urban districts: Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan, Cau Giay, Long Bien, Hoang Mai, Ha Dong and 1 town: Son Tay. 18 rural districts: Dong Anh, Soc Son, Thanh Tri, Tu Liem, Gia Lam (Hanoi); Ba Vi, Chuong My, Dan Phuong, Hoai Duc, My Duc, Phu Xuyen, PhucTho, Quoc Oai, Thach That, ThanhOai. Thuong Tin, UngHoa (former Ha Tay province) and Me Linh (a former district of Vinh Phuc province). Ethnic groups: Viet (Kinh), Hoa, Muong, Tay and Dao. Geography – Hanoi is situated in Red River Delta, surrounded by Thai Nguyen to the north, Vinh Phuc and Ha Tay to the west and south, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh, and Hung Yen to the east and southwest. Climate – Hanoi has tropical monsoon temperature type: hot summer with high rainfall and cold winter, rare of rain. The city receives high rainfall and humidity. History Hanoi has a thousand year of history. It has been the political center of Vietnam since the 3rd century. Hanoi has undergone the up-and-down of the country during the northern invasion, civil war, French colonization, and Vietnam War. Tourism With high cultural values, Hanoi is an attractive destinations in the North. Millions of tourists coming to the city each year to see the ancient architectural works, the fascinating lakes, and other traditional villages there. General information Hanoi – the center of the North covers an area of 3,324.92 sp km, with the population of 6,448.900 (2011). The city consists of 10 urban districts which are Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Tay Ho, Thanh Xuan, Cau Giay, Long Bien, Hoang Mai, and Ha Dong, and one town that is Son Tay. Regarding rural areas, there are 18 districts: Dong Anh, Thanh Tri, Soc Son, Tu Liem, Gia Lam (Hanoi); Ba Vi, Chuong My, Dan Phuong, Hoai Duc, My Duc, Phu Xuyen, Phuc Tho, Quoc Oai, Thach That, Thanh Oai, Thuong Tin, Ung Hoa (former districts of Ha Tay province); and Me Linh (a former district of VinhPhuc province). The Kinh people accounts for the largest proportion of the population, and the rest is the Hoa, Muong, Tay, and Dao people. Hanoi is the capital of the Social Republic of Vietnam and the cultural, political, economic, and trading center of the nation. Hanoi is well-known as a beautiful capital with high cultural value. The name “Hanoi” means “embraced by the river”, as the city is surrounded by the Red River. There still exists many elegant pieces of French architecture of which have a hundred years of history. Hanoi is among the greenest cities in Asia with several parks and lakes. The city has the bustling life at daytime; however, it is really tranquil by night. Geography Located in the Red River Delta, Hanoi is surrounded by Thai Nguyen to the north, Vinh Phuc and Ha Tay to the west and south, Bac Giang, Bac Ninh, and Hung Yen to the east and southwest. The city is embraced by the Red River and its tributaries. There are also some rivers flowing through the city, namely Duong, Cau, Ca Lo, Day, Nhue, Tich, To Lich, and Kim Nguu. Climate Ha Noi climate belongs to tropical monsoon temperature type: hot summer with high rainfall and cold winter, rare of rain. The annual average temperature is 23.6⁰C. In the hot season, it might reach 40⁰C. Hanoi receives a considerably high rainfall and humidity. The average annual humidity is 79% and rainfall is 1,800mm per year. History Hanoi’s history dates back to the very early day of Vietnam. In the 3rd century, the residing King Thuc chose Co Loa in Dong Anh District) as the capital of the Au Lac Nation – the first dynasty in Vietnam history. The city then was the core of resistance movements against the Northern invasions. Hanoi was selected as the chief city of Vietnam under the Northern domination. In the autumn of 1010, Ly Thai To, the first king of the Ly Dynasty, transferred the capital from Hoa Lu (Capital of Vietnam in the Dinh Dynasty) to Dai La, thereby renaming it to “Thang Long”, which means “Soaring Dragon”. For almost a thousand years from 1010, the city was called Thang Long, then changed to Dong Do, Dong Kinh, and finally Hanoi in 1831. This sacred piece of land thereafter continued to be the theatre of many fateful events. The city experienced rapid growth because of the expansion of foreign trade in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1786, the Tay Son Troops lead by Quang Trung came from the south to fight against the dominators in the North and united the country. The capital was then moved to Hue, and remained throughout the Nguyen Dynasty. It was not until 1831 when Emperor Minh Mang established it as the capital of the Northern Province that Hanoi regained its former name. The arrival of the French invaders in 1888 resulted in the growth of the city. Many old boulevards, residences, and villas still remain today. Hanoi served as the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1953. In 1945, Ho Chi Minh gave the independence speech and declared Vietnam an independent nation in Ba Dinh Square. Since then, Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. Tourism Despite the destruction of wars and natural disasters, Hanoi still well preserves several ancient architectural works. Some outstanding ones are the Old Quarter, One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Hanoi Opera House, Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum, and more than 600 pagodas and temples. There are lots of fascinating lakes in the city such as Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and Truc Bach Lake, which are considered the lungs of the city. Hanoi is also home to many traditional handicraft villages, including Bat Trang Pottery Village, Ngu Xa Bronze Casting Village, and Yen Thai Glossy Silks. With these valuable attractions, Hanoi has always been a huge appeal to tourists. HIGHLIGHTS OF HANOI Hanoi Old Quarter The 36 streets of Hanoi Old Quarter bring tourists a closer look at Vietnamese life in the past. Since the 13th century, the Old Quarter has been the main streets of Hanoi, where shops gather. Each street, also called “hang”, is specified for one kind of products. Taking a tour around the Old Quarter, visitors will not only see the western influences in architecture but they also acknowledge the tradition and customs of Hanoi people. Address: Hoan Kiem District Entrance Fee: Free The Ancient House This 100-year-old house is located at 88 Ma May Street, within the Old Quarter. The house is a typical “tube house” which is 2 meters wide and 60 meters long with open yards between rooms. The house is arranged strictly in accordance with “FengShui” rules and is vividly decorated in a Eastern traditional style. Address: 87 Ma May Street, Hoan Kiem District Opening hours: Everyday, 8.30 am – 4.00 pm Entrance fee: Around 20.000VND/guest Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Uncle Ho’s Mausoleum is where the embalmed body of the founder of Vietnam stays. He is the great politician, author, and philosopher of Vietnam in particular and the World in general. The life of Ho Chi Minh has inspired millions of people on Earth. Another worth-visiting place in this relic is the Uncle Ho’s house on stilts, which used to be the place where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked. To visit the Mausoleum, tourists are required to dress formally and keep silent. Also, taking photos inside the Mausoleum is banned. Address: Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh District Opening hour: Every day except Monday and Friday, 7.30 am – 10.30 am Entrance fee: Free Recommend: Dress formerly. Avoid wearing shorts, singlets, etc. Temple of Literature The thousand-year-old Temple of Literature was the first universities in Vietnam and was used as the school for the sons of the mandarin class.  The complex includes five separate courtyards with different paths that would originally have been reserved for the Emperor and his mandarins and highlighted by the Khue Van Pavilion. Another notable feature of the temple is the steles. From 1442 to 1779, hundreds of stone tablets, or steles were erected to record the names and achievements of the graduates. Eighty-two of the steles remain today and are the most valuable artifacts at the temple. Visiting the Temple, travelers can see the importance of education in Vietnam society. Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District Opening hour: Everyday, 8.00 am – 5:30 pm Entrance fee: Around VND 20.000/guest Recommend: Dress formerly. Avoid wearing shorts, singlets, etc. One Pillar Pagoda One Pillar Pagoda is one of the landmarks of Hanoi. One Pillar Pagoda was built in 1049 in honors of the Goddess of Mercy. The pillar was destroyed in 1954, but it was quickly rebuilt. The pagoda looks like a lotus flower emerging from the water. It is one of the Buddhism belief.  Similar to the Mausoleum, the Pagoda is not open for tourism in every Monday and Friday. Address: Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh District Opening hour: 7.30 am – 10.30 am everyday except Monday and Friday Entrance fee: Free Recommend: Dress formerly. Avoid wearing shorts, singlets, etc. Hoan Kiem Lake Considered as the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a small but beautiful lake located close to the Old Quarter. Legend has it that a giant turtle presented Emperor Le Loi with a magic sword with which to defeat Chinese invaders. After the victory in the battle, the King returned the sword to the turtle on this lake. Hoan Kiem Lake now is an important historical relic of Hanoi, which welcomes millions of tourists each year. Also, it is the place for locals to gather and chat. Address: DinhTien Hoang, HoanKiem District Opening hour: 7.00 am – 6.00 pm everyday Entrance fee: Around 20.000VND/guest Recommend: Dress formerly. Avoid wearing shorts, singlets, etc. Quan Thanh Temple The Temple was built during the reign of King Ly Thai To (1010-1028) – the first Emperor in the Ly Dynasty. Quan Thanh Temple honors Saint Tran Vu, who helped King An Duong Vuong chase demons away while Co Loa Citadel was constructed. The central feature of the temple is a giant, black, bronze statue of Tran Vu cast in 1667. Address: Thanh Nien Street, Ba Dinh District Opening hour: Every day, 5.00 am – 7.00 pm Entrance fee: Around 10,000VND Tran Quoc Pagoda Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi with its history line of more than 1,500 years. The architecture of this Buddhist center is a subtle combination between the solemn and beautiful landscape on the peaceful and quiet ambiance of West Lake’s surface. Not only is it a popular place for locals, the pagoda is famous with foreign tourists. Address: Thanh Nien Street, Ba Dinh District Opening hour: Every day, 7.00 am – 6.00 pm Entrance fee: free Water Puppet Theatre Water puppetry is a significant art form of Vietnam, which combines traditional music, fireworks, and elaborate puppets floating elegantly on the water. This game dates back to the 10th century and was held on lakes or ponds. Today, visitors coming to the Water Puppet Theatre can learn about the Vietnamese legends and customs. Address: 57b Dinh Tien Hoang Street, HoanKiem District Show schedule: Every day at 3.30 pm – 5.00 pm – 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm – 9.15 pm and Sunday at 9.30 am Ticket fee: 60.000 – 100.000 VND Website: www.thanglongwaterpuppet.org Museum of Ethnology The Museum of Ethnology is where foreign visitors can take a glimpse at the distinctive features of Vietnamese ethnic groups. The museum displays the characteristics of 54 groups. It is a great place to learn about the tradition and legends of Vietnamese ethnic groups. Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Nghia Do, CauGiay District Opening hour: Every day, 8.30 am – 5.30 pm, except Monday Entrance fee: Adult: Around 25,000VND, Child: around 5,000VND, Free admission to child under 6 years-old Bat Trang Ceramic Village Bat Trang is a small traditional village located about 13 km to the southeast of Hanoi. The village is renowned for its ceramic and pottery products of high quality. Recently learning to make ceramic products has become one of the top things to do in Hanoi. In documents, the history of Bat Trang Village dates back to the 15th or the 16th century; however, local people believe the village appeared much earlier. Legend has it that during Ly Dynasty, scholars who had been sent to China came back to Bat Trang Village to teach locals how to make ceramic products. After times, the village has gradually transferred from a normal ceramic village into a famous center. Pottery products from Bat Trang have been widely used as household furniture in Vietnam and other countries. Travelling to Bat Trang, visitors are enabled to understand more about the historical and traditional values of the village as well as its products. Also, it is interesting to try making a ceramic product by yourself. Address: Hamlet Bat Trang, Gia Lam District Opening hour: Every day, 8.00 am – 5.00 pm Entrance fee: Free TRANSPORTATION Hanoi is an important hub of Vietnam and Asia. Three main ways to connect the city with other regions are by air, by road, and by train. Noi Bai International Airport, which is situated just 35 km from the city center, is the biggest airport in Vietnam with several international and domestic routes. It is the safest means of transportation. Regarding traveling by road, Hanoi is the center of the North, which is 93km from Ninh Binh, 102km from Haiphong, 153km from Thanh Hoa, 151km from Ha Long, 474km from Dien Bien Phu, 658km from Hue, 763km from Da Nang, and 1,710km from Ho Chi Minh City. Please note that going a long journey by bus is not a suitable option for the elders and those with ill health. Last but not least, Hanoi is the starting point of the railway routes leading to different parts of the country. Train is exceptionally perfect for traveling to places like Sapa, which are far away from the airport, and the roads are bumpy.

Phu Quoc Island, a pearl nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, beckons travellers with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. To elevate your Vietnamese vacation experience, consider indulging in the unparalleled luxury offered by Phu Quoc's luxury resorts. These havens of tranquillity boast a curated selection of activities designed to pamper your senses and create wonderful, long-lasting memories… Indulge in Luxurious Spa Treatments Escape the everyday mundanity and embark on a journey of rejuvenation at the world-class spas housed within Phu Quoc's luxury resorts. These sanctuaries of serenity offer a comprehensive menu of treatments, incorporating traditional Vietnamese techniques with modern innovations. Unwind with a soothing massage using locally sourced ingredients like lemongrass and coconut oil, or rejuvenate your skin with a revitalising facial. Many spas also feature hydrotherapy facilities like saunas and steam rooms, further enhancing your relaxation experience! Pro Tip: Consider booking a couples' massage or a spa package for an extra touch of luxury and romance. Thrilling Water Sports and Beach Activities Phu Quoc's pristine coastline provides the perfect playground for water-babies and outdoor enthusiasts. Luxury beachfront resorts in Phu Quoc often partner with local activity providers, offering guests a variety of options to explore the Insta-worthy turquoise waters. Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are fantastic ways to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches at your own pace. For an adrenaline rush, try jet skiing or parasailing, soaking up breath-taking views of the island from a unique perspective. Many resorts in Phu Quoc also boast private beachfront areas with sun loungers and water sports equipment available for rent, allowing you to unwind and soak up the sun in luxurious comfort. Savour Gourmet Dining at La Veranda Phu Quoc's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of Vietnamese flavours and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Luxury resorts in Phu Quoc like La Veranda take this culinary adventure to a whole new level. Expect to find a diverse range of dining options, from poolside bars serving refreshing cocktails and light bites, to fine-dining restaurants showcasing exquisite Vietnamese and international cuisine. Expert chefs utilise the freshest seasonal ingredients to create gourmet masterpieces, sure to tantalise even the most discerning palate. Many restaurants also offer stunning oceanfront views, providing a truly unforgettable dining experience. Explore Cultural and Recreational Activities Phu Quoc offers a surprising wealth of cultural and recreational activities beyond the resort. Many luxury resorts can arrange excursions to explore the island's rich history and natural beauty. Delve into Vietnam's fascinating past at the Dinh Cau Night Market, or visit the impressive Phu Quoc Prison, a haunting reminder of the island's turbulent past. Nature lovers can embark on a thrilling hike through the Phu Quoc National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and awe-inspiring waterfalls. For a unique cultural experience, explore the vibrant local fishing villages and learn about traditional fishing techniques. Enjoy Exclusive Amenities and Services Phu Quoc accommodation goes beyond exceptional rooms and suites; these havens of hospitality provide a range of exclusive amenities and services designed to cater to your every whim. Imagine refreshing yourself in a sparkling infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or participating in complimentary yoga classes led by experienced instructors. Many resorts also offer children's clubs, ensuring fun and engaging activities for younger guests while parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation! Personalised butler services can further elevate your experience, attending to your every need and ensuring a truly unforgettable stay. Experience Unmatched Luxury at La Veranda La Veranda luxury resort & spa, a premier resort in Phu Quoc, exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury hospitality. Imagine stepping into a haven of tranquillity, where every detail is meticulously designed to create a sense of pampered indulgence… From the exquisite beachfront bungalows, to the world-class luxury resort & spa: Tinh Wellness, La Veranda offers an unparalleled selection of activities and amenities. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, embark on thrilling water adventures, or savour gourmet dining experiences showcasing the finest Vietnamese cuisine. Explore the island's rich cultural heritage or simply relax on the pristine beachfront, soaking up the warm sunshine. Ready to create unforgettable memories in paradise? Visit La Veranda's website today to explore our 5-star Phu Quoc resort and book your dream getaway! Experience the unparalleled service, world-class amenities, and exceptional activities that await you at La Veranda.

Imagine a culinary haven nestled amidst the pristine shores and lush tropical landscapes of Phú Quốc island. Here, where the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand meet verdant hills, a symphony of flavours awaits you, orchestrated by world-renowned celebrity chefs. Their culinary artistry, combined with the island's rich bounty of fresh, local ingredients, has transformed Phú Quốc into a destination for discerning palates seeking an unforgettable fine dining experience. How Celebrity Chefs Shape the Fine Dining Scene in Phú Quốc Celebrity chefs have become synonymous with culinary excellence, their names evoking images of exquisite dishes and innovative culinary creations. Their influence on the fine dining scene in Phú Quốc is undeniable, elevating the island's gastronomic landscape to new heights. These culinary masters bring a wealth of experience, passion, and creativity to the table, transforming dining into an art form. They source the finest ingredients, experiment with bold flavour combinations, and push the boundaries of culinary innovation, setting new standards for food preparation and presentation. The Role of Celebrity Chefs in Elevating Fine Dining Celebrity chefs have revolutionised the way we perceive and experience fine dining restaurants in Phú Quốc. Their influence extends beyond the kitchen, shaping trends, inspiring aspiring chefs, and creating a global culinary conversation: Innovation and Creativity: Celebrity chefs are at the forefront of culinary innovation, constantly experimenting with new techniques, ingredients, and flavour profiles. They challenge traditional norms and push the boundaries of what's possible in the kitchen. Elevated Standards: Their dedication to excellence sets a high bar for the entire industry, inspiring other chefs to strive for perfection in every dish. Global Influence: Celebrity chefs often travel the world, bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to different culinary traditions. This cross-cultural exchange enriches the fine dining landscape and creates a global tapestry of flavours. Culinary Innovation: Blending Global Inspirations with Local Flavours At the heart of fine dining in Phú Quốc lies a deep appreciation for the island's rich culinary heritage. Celebrity chefs, while bringing their global inspirations, also embrace the local flavours and ingredients that make Phú Quốc unique. Phú Quốc Pepper: Known for its distinctive aroma and flavour, Phú Quốc pepper is a prized ingredient in many fine dining dishes. Fresh Seafood: The island's pristine waters yield a bounty of fresh seafood, from succulent prawns and lobsters, to delicate fish and crabs. Organic Herbs and Spices: Phú Quốc's fertile soil produces a variety of aromatic herbs and spices that add depth and complexity to culinary creations. By blending these local treasures with their international expertise, celebrity chefs create dishes that are both innovative and authentic, reflecting the island's unique culinary identity. Crafting Unforgettable Dining Experiences At La Veranda Resort Phú Quốc, we believe that dining should be an experience that tantalises the senses and creates lasting memories. Our hotel restaurant in Phu Quoc offers a haven of culinary delights, where exquisite cuisine meets awesome views. Le Jardin restaurant Phú Quốc: Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Vietnamese and international cuisine at Le Jardin, our charming garden restaurant. The Peppertree: Our French restaurant in Phú Quốc, takes you on a culinary journey through France, where classic dishes are reimagined with a modern twist. Le Bar Phú Quốc: Unwind with handcrafted cocktails and breath-taking sunset views at Le Bar Phú Quốc, our sophisticated beachfront bar. Our commitment to culinary excellence extends beyond the menu. Our elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and attention to detail create an atmosphere of refined luxury, ensuring every dining experience is truly unforgettable. Why Choose Fine Dining in Phú Quốc for Your Next Culinary Adventure Phú Quốc, with its pristine beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant culinary scene, offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience: Culinary Diversity: From authentic Vietnamese cuisine, to innovative French creations, Phú Quốc's fine dining scene caters to every palate. Fresh, Local Ingredients: The island's rich bounty of seafood, spices, and produce ensures that every dish is bursting with flavour. Stunning Settings: Dine amidst gorgeous scenery, whether it's on the beach, overlooking the ocean, or surrounded by lush tropical gardens. World-Class Service: Experience exceptional hospitality and personalised service that elevates your dining experience to new heights. A Culinary Journey Awaits Phú Quốc's fine dining scene is a testament to the island's rich culinary heritage and the innovative spirit of its celebrity chefs. Contact La Veranda Resort today to book your stay and experience the culinary delights that await.