Hoi An Memories is an artistic creation rooted in Vietnamese cultural and historical elements. This colorful cultural performance will take you on a journey through 400 years of history of the port city of Hoi An. There are 5 impressive performances: the beginning of life, marriage during the ancient Champa kingdom period, of transition, multilateral cultural interference and combination of ancient and modern life.

Why Hoi An Memories?

Hoi An Memories is the largest outdoor visual arts show in the country, with a 3,300-seat, 25,000 square meter theater and the participation of 500 professional actors. This colorful performance brings viewers a strong emotion and a special experience of a unique artistic creation imbued with the identity of Hoi An, a land rich in history and culture.

The fragments of Hoi An memories under the meticulous arrangement of a top art team and special performance technology take you back in time to Hoi An of the ancient times. The first scene titled “life” praises the vitality of the new land through the fairy-tale footsteps of the charming Vietnamese traditional costume Ao dai on the path of light – the road of time.

The second scene, entitled “The Wedding”, represents the solemn, majestic, jubilant and happy scene of the marriage of King Champa and the Vietnamese princess Huyen Tran in the 14th century. It’s an impressive performance set against a backdrop of temples, towers and Champa dances.

The third scene of the show, “Lamp and Ocean,” is the story of a faithful wife who desperately waits for her husband, a sailor. He didn’t come home and she turns into a stone statue. At the end of the story, the man returns, feeling miserable in fact, he writhes in anguish next to the statue. The story is told on the sparkling stage lit by colorful lanterns. The scene praised the beautiful love story of Hoi An women and many Vietnamese women in general.

Next, the 17th century trading port of Hoi An is brought to the scene with merchants from Japan, Holland, Portugal, China and India. They trade and participate in local festivals. It is considered Hoi An’s most prosperous period.

In the fifth scene named “Ao Dai”, on the route of the threads of time which are woven by the girl next to the loom, girls carrying Ao dai bicycles go to the contemporary scene of Hoi An. Hoi An is a harmonious blend of ancient and modern times. All its tangible and intangible values ​​have been preserved until now.

How is this show going?

The Hoi An Memories show runs every evening from 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., except Tuesdays when Hoi An Impression Park is closed.

For who?

This show is recommended for anyone stopping in Hoi An and interested in Vietnamese culture as well as local shows.

It’s hard to find more wonderful than a small group cruise in Halong Bay (or Halong). In this legendary site, you can navigate peacefully and in complete privacy while also exploring its lesser known corners.

Why a cruise in “exclusive and privileged” mode?

Are you traveling to Vietnam as a couple, with family or with a group of friends? Discovering Along Bay alone in a boat, in the company of your loved ones and an attentive crew, will enchant you. You will get the most out of discovering this exceptional maritime region, benefiting from first-class service while savoring delicious dishes.

In a junk reserved for you, the itineraries, visits and activities are more personalized. They can be programmed with much more flexibility, in fact, than in a collective boat open to the general public. Of course, you cannot sail just anywhere in the bay because you must respect the rules put in place by the authorities for the sake of safety and respect for the environment. But by traveling in your own junk, more modest in size than those that can accommodate more than 50 or 100 travelers, you can more easily penetrate the more remote and remote places of this internationally renowned destination. Your captain can slip between the islands and islets that have made the reputation of this wonder of the world. In the evening, for example, he will suggest dropping anchor in a quiet place, not frequented by hordes of tourists. With your travel companions, you will then be able to contemplate the majestic bay in complete serenity.

Along Bay is yours, according to your desires and your physical condition. In your private junk, no one will decide for you what activities to carry out there!

What budget should you plan?

Due to the many advantages and additional services that this provides, navigation and accommodation in a private junk costs more than in a collective one. But budgets can vary greatly depending on the number of loved ones accompanying you and the level of comfort in cabins or shared spaces. Please contact us to receive information corresponding to your expectations.

For whom in particular?

A private cruise especially appeals to those who are not traveling alone but wish to enjoy a discreet atmosphere, without showing off too much. It may also be suitable for tourists who have already visited Halong Bay by sailing in a collective junk. Other unsuspected aspects of this prodigious aquatic and natural wonder are revealed to them, making the experience even more extraordinary and unique.

Renowned as “the pearl of the East Sea” bordering Vietnam, this archipelago – called Along, Halong or Ha Long – extends over approximately 1,500 km². Thousands of sugar loaves of all shapes and sizes are “planted” there like in a maritime park. Over centuries of erosion by wind and sea, superb caves have also been naturally sculpted within its islands and islets. Thanks to its breathtaking beauties, and its undeniable archaeological and historical values, Along Bay has been recognized twice by UNESCO as a world natural heritage site.

The bay seen from the sky

The flight over this wonder of the world is carried out aboard a fixed-wing aircraft, capable of landing. It has a capacity of 12 seats for passengers, in addition to 2 for pilots. Currently, there are three options to benefit from this mode of transport which can greatly intensify your Halong Bay experience:

+ Overview in 25 minutes:

The seaplane takes off from the port of Tuan Chau, in the city of Halong, for a flight of almost half an hour above the most emblematic sites of the maritime park: the island of Dau Be (“from the head veal”, located in the estuary of Lan Ha Bay), the island of Cong Do (with its 172m peak), the island of Bo Hon (home to one of the largest beaches in the bay and the magnificent caves like that of “surprises”). There are several possible time choices: 9 a.m., 9:55 a.m., 10:50 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:25 p.m., 2:20 p.m., 3:15 p.m. and 4:10 p.m.

+ Flight from Hanoi before flying over Halong Bay in 15 minutes:

The journey from Hanoi to Halong, lasting 45 minutes, allows you to feast your eyes on magnificent views of the Red River Delta. We can also admire emblematic localities in the north, such as the port city of Hai Phong or the Luc Dau Giang river, the convergence of six rivers. It is a unique and unusual experience, like the 15-minute flight over Halong Bay. Landing the plane on the water, forming waves with abundant white foam, also leaves unforgettable memories.

+ Private plane rental:

Travelers who make this choice either have the option of following the proposed flight plan or the freedom to decide their route for a higher price. The duration is more than 60 minutes, including travel time from Hanoi.

Double immersion on a junk and by seaplane

The ideal is to discover Halong Bay by both sea and air routes. Before or after the two-day cruise, including a night aboard a junk among the karst peaks, it is fantastic to fly over this magnificent paradise on earth, of which we never tire.

For who?

This beautiful experience is perfect for travelers who want to discover Halong Bay in all its aspects. It is also interesting for those who do not have enough time, because instead of the road trip of more than 3 hours to reach Halong from Hanoi, you only need 45 minutes by seaplane (or also by helicopter) . The flight over the bay allows you to appreciate all its spectacular landscapes from the sky, intensely and in a limited time without waiting.

Khuoi Khon, in Cao Bang province, is a high-altitude hamlet, “decorated” by rice terraces. It offers the possibility of delving into the daily life of the black Lolo, an ethnic group well known to English-speaking viewers, thanks to the program “Rendez-vous en terre stranger” broadcast on France 2 or TV5 Monde.

Who are the black Lolo?

The black Lolo, also called “O Man”, “Man”, “La”, “Man Yi” or “Mun Di”, originate from China, whose border borders Cao Bang. They live mainly in this province and that of Ha Giang, located on the northern tip of Vietnam. Their houses are entirely on stilts, or partly when the rest of their spaces overlook the land. They mainly cultivate rice and corn, and also do livestock. They have their own language and customs distinguishing them from the “varied Lolo”, and practice the patriarchal regime and the cult of ancestors.

Why this activity?

To get to know a country well, especially its population, nothing is better than spending nights with locals, in order to be in direct contact with local families. Being hosted in the village of Khuoi Khon allows you to interact with them in a fruitful way, particularly by sharing their dinner. These hosts will offer you activities that will make your stay truly unforgettable.

How’s it going?

Once settled in with the local, you will be warmly welcomed by their family and will get to know each other while sharing a cup of green tea, for example. Time to rest, you will participate in daily activities depending on arrival time and the season, or can simply play with the children.

At the end of the day, if you wish, you will participate in the preparation of dinner in order to learn the recipe for typical local dishes. The meal will take place in a friendly atmosphere, around what you have concocted with your hosts, and will remain engraved in your memory. This is an ideal opportunity to discover the culture and daily life of black Lolo people. Your English-speaking guide will always be at your side, too, to facilitate communication and enlighten you.

For the night, you will have a private space or bedroom in the house. Your hosts will provide the service by providing you with a mattress, blanket, bath towel, and a fan if necessary. But it is advisable to bring basic hygiene products with you (shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).

Other recommended activities

Travelers with more time – and wishing to relive the moments of “Rendezvous in an unknown land” – can immerse themselves more in the life of the black Lolo. By spending at least one extra day with their guests, they have the opportunity to help them prepare and serve food for the animals, for example. Depending on the season, they can also help out in the fields, between plowing, transplanting rice, harvesting corn or collecting wood. These works constitute formidable human and cultural experiences.

If you stay longer in Khuoi Khon, you can also walk around the village, cycle or visit another isolated hamlet populated by White Hmong. This is a great opportunity to compare the lifestyle of two different ethnic groups.

For who?

This experience is perfect for all travelers who pass through the Cao Bang region and want to delve into the original culture of the Black Lolo. Those who wish to favor more comfortable accommodation are less likely to be interested.

Did you know?

To earn a spot on the list of “legendary hotels”, an establishment must be situated in a place steeped in history with a capital “H”. Its guests must also be accommodated in a building with original and characteristic architecture. The Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi checks all these boxes, providing a setting where the concepts of historical and cultural significance blend seamlessly with modern comfort for an ideal overnight stay.

Why choose to stay there?

“Hanoi is a magical and charming city. The character, history, and romance of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi add something special to your trip”, comments William Haandrikman, the hotel manager, addressing visitors staying in the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam.

The Metropole is located in the heart of the city’s old town, in its historic center near the renowned Hoan Kiem Lake. Shaped like a dragon, it is one of the country’s most beautiful establishments, just a few steps from the splendid Opera House, also constructed by the French. Its prime location allows travelers to easily and joyfully explore Hanoi’s most picturesque and bustling streets.

The architecture of the Sofitel Legend Metropole is in the colonial style because it was constructed by two French entrepreneurs, André Ducamp and Gustave-Émile Dumoutier. Inaugurated in 1901, it has withstood the fluctuations of history, maintaining its elegance and grandeur, especially during the wars that heavily impacted Vietnam in the latter half of the 20th century.

The establishment comprises 364 rooms and suites spread across two extensive areas. On one hand, there is the historic wing with its wooden floors, Parisian-style windows, and suspended fans – a combination of features that preserve the colonial essence in the best sense of the term. On the other hand, there is the Opera wing, offering a more contemporary atmosphere with its neoclassical decor.

This legendary Hanoi hotel also hosts three restaurants, each with its unique ambiance. Here, you can savor a wide variety of dishes, primarily Vietnamese or European, all elegantly prepared. The Spices Garden Restaurant allows you to explore the finesse of local cuisine, while Angelina specializes in Italian cuisine, and Le Beaulieu in French dishes.

For Whom?

The Métropole can, therefore, cater to the expectations of all types of travelers. Its luxurious facilities, high-end services, and discreet, ever-smiling, and attentive staff are all part of its appeal for tourists. This hotel, likely the most prestigious and historically significant in Hanoi, is highly recommended for visitors who appreciate both luxury and culture. It is especially suited for those who have the means to stay in the utmost comfort and discretion, ensuring that their stay in Hanoi becomes a truly unforgettable experience.

Did you know?

To earn a spot on the list of “legendary hotels”, an establishment must be situated in a place steeped in history with a capital “H”. Its guests must also be accommodated in a building with original and characteristic architecture. The Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi checks all these boxes, providing a setting where the concepts of historical and cultural significance blend seamlessly with modern comfort for an ideal overnight stay.

Why choose to stay there?

“Hanoi is a magical and charming city. The character, history, and romance of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi add something special to your trip”, comments William Haandrikman, the hotel manager, addressing visitors staying in the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam.

The Metropole is located in the heart of the city’s old town, in its historic center near the renowned Hoan Kiem Lake. Shaped like a dragon, it is one of the country’s most beautiful establishments, just a few steps from the splendid Opera House, also constructed by the French. Its prime location allows travelers to easily and joyfully explore Hanoi’s most picturesque and bustling streets.

The architecture of the Sofitel Legend Metropole is in the colonial style because it was constructed by two French entrepreneurs, André Ducamp and Gustave-Émile Dumoutier. Inaugurated in 1901, it has withstood the fluctuations of history, maintaining its elegance and grandeur, especially during the wars that heavily impacted Vietnam in the latter half of the 20th century.

The establishment comprises 364 rooms and suites spread across two extensive areas. On one hand, there is the historic wing with its wooden floors, Parisian-style windows, and suspended fans – a combination of features that preserve the colonial essence in the best sense of the term. On the other hand, there is the Opera wing, offering a more contemporary atmosphere with its neoclassical decor.

This legendary Hanoi hotel also hosts three restaurants, each with its unique ambiance. Here, you can savor a wide variety of dishes, primarily Vietnamese or European, all elegantly prepared. The Spices Garden Restaurant allows you to explore the finesse of local cuisine, while Angelina specializes in Italian cuisine, and Le Beaulieu in French dishes.

For Whom?

The Métropole can, therefore, cater to the expectations of all types of travelers. Its luxurious facilities, high-end services, and discreet, ever-smiling, and attentive staff are all part of its appeal for tourists. This hotel, likely the most prestigious and historically significant in Hanoi, is highly recommended for visitors who appreciate both luxury and culture. It is especially suited for those who have the means to stay in the utmost comfort and discretion, ensuring that their stay in Hanoi becomes a truly unforgettable experience.

Tasting a cup of egg coffee is a rather unusual experience that should be on the list of things to discover for any future visitor to the capital of Vietnam.

Why enjoy egg coffee?

“If you haven’t tried egg coffee, you haven’t been to Hanoi yet,” some say. The signature hot drink of the historic metropolis is called “ca phe trung” in the local language, the word “trung” meaning “egg”. This unique combination – combining local coffee, rather bitter, with egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk – will undoubtedly be one of the lasting memories of your stay in North Vietnam.

Egg coffee has a legendary past because it was invented during the war years. In Hanoi during periods of severe food shortages, particularly dairy products. To overcome these difficulties, a bartender from the legendary Hôtel Métropole, now labeled “Sofitel Legend”, had an idea. It was apparently very simple, consisting of replacing the milk in his cups of coffee, prepared for his customers, with egg yolk. His colleagues and colleagues were impressed by this discovery because it could be difficult to imagine and it was not a rudimentary ersatz. Oddly enough, the egg yolk brought a soft, creamy meringue taste to the national drink made from the tropical grain. The “ca phe trung” combined the strong flavors of coffee with those, rich and frothy, eggy. It was really original!

How ?

The way of serving and drinking the cup of “ca phe trung” is not trivial either. First of all, it is presented bathing in a bowl of hot water to keep its temperature at a sufficiently high level. Then, when we move on to tasting, we must slowly stir the whipped egg cream foam that covers the coffee liquid. The savory and sweet taste of the yolk mixes with that of milk since times of deprivation are a thing of the past; it is in harmony with the bitterness of the coffee, leaving a captivating scent.

Where to taste?

It’s hard to find a better “ca phe trung” anywhere other than its place of origin, at Giang’s, the bartender credited as its inventor. His establishment, now 60 years old, offers a wide variety of Vietnamese coffees that few visitors can resist!

For who ?

This drink is recommended for anyone visiting Hanoi planning to discover local specialties. They must already be aware that Vietnam is the largest coffee producing country in the world.

A pleasant immersion in the culture of the Red River Delta is possible thanks to the dance, sound and light show “The quintessence of Tonkin”. Grandiose and unique, it takes place in the open air about thirty kilometers from the center of Hanoi.

A beautiful artistic and historical project

“The quintessence of Tonkin”, created ten years ago, is a harmonious artistic masterpiece, taking advantage of modern technologies in a picturesque setting. It takes place on a large open stage of 4300 m2 transformed into a natural lake, in effect, and includes a sophisticated lighting and sound system. We can admire in particular a Thuy Dinh pavilion of the Thay pagoda complex, emerging from the water in less than a minute with all the splendor of lights and reflections. This historical-cultural event, reminiscent of that of Puy du Fou in France, has become an essential part of a program to discover the traditions of northern Vietnam. So much so that it was awarded as “Leading Cultural Show” by the “Best Hotels & Resorts Awards”.

This performance, lasting 60 very intense minutes, is enhanced by the superb “3D mapping” lighting effects. This allows viewers to delve – literally and figuratively, with their eyes and ears – into the peaceful landscapes as well as the daily and spiritual life of the rural areas of the northern region. “The quintessence of Tonkin” lives up to its name!

whole show tells a story about Vietnamese culture, divided into six thematic chapters: poetry, Buddhism, nostalgia, arts (music and painting), peace and festivals. You will be impressed by the perfect combination of light, sound of traditional tunes and colorful costumes. You will be particularly enchanted by the high-flying dances, performed with the help of numerous volunteer residents from the surrounding villages.

Most of the 250 actors are farmers aged 12 to 60, in fact, from the Quoc Oai locality. As a result, “The quintessence of Tonkin” is also a citizen event. Thanks to two years of careful training and above all passion and love for their traditions, these farmers have become true performing artists.

How does this activity take place?

The journey from Hanoi, approximately 40 minutes, can be done by shared bus or private car. This magnificent, outdoor and aquatic “show” begins at 7:30 p.m., but spectators are asked to be present 30 minutes before. By arriving even earlier, they can take the opportunity to dine in a local establishment, to taste dishes from the region.

For who?

“The quintessence of Tonkin” is recommended for everyone visiting the capital, including families with children. However, it is prohibited to film or take photos during the performance!