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Thailand - The Land of Golden Temples
Thailand is a relatively inexpensive Lunar New Year travel destination compared to other countries. Tourists can find almost everything they need in this country, from majestic nature to sacred temples or bustling shopping centers…
With affordable costs, many beautiful sights, delicious food, and enjoyable experiences... (Photo: Hiep Le)
Thailand is a favorite destination for many young Vietnamese people (Photo: Hiep Le)
In addition, Thailand is famous for many major festivals such as: the Songkran water festival (April 13-15 annually), the traditional New Year festival of the Thai people; the Loy Krathong festival with the release of sky lanterns in Chiang Mai; Buddhist festivals, buffalo racing festivals, etc.
The famous sky lantern release in Chiang Mai is one of the festivals that attracts a large number of tourists to Thailand (Photo: Tran Le Ngoc Thang)
Cuisine is an integral part of Thai culture and one of the factors that attract tourists to the country. Thai food is a sophisticated blend of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients, combined with unique cooking styles. Each dish, or even an entire Thai meal, features a delicate balance of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors.
Thai street food holds a special appeal for tourists, with many famous delicacies such as mango sticky rice, Tom Yum soup, Thai hot pot, etc. (Photo: Hiep Le)
Myanmar - A Buddhist Holy Land
If you're looking for a change of scenery for a peaceful Lunar New Year holiday, away from the hustle and bustle of life, then Myanmar is the perfect choice.
When mentioning Myanmar, one thinks of pristine, romantic natural landscapes such as Inle Lake, the cool blue waters of Ngapali - one of the most beautiful beaches in Asia, or the unique customs of the long-necked Pa-O tribe…
Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda is considered one of the world's most unusual pagodas, situated on a gold-plated rock precariously perched on a cliff. From a distance, it looks as if the rock is about to fall into the abyss. (Photo: Facebook)
The Shwedagon Pagoda, also known as the Golden Pagoda, is located in Yangon. This pagoda is considered a symbol of Myanmar and one of the wonders of the world. (Photo: Bui Ngoc Mai)
But perhaps what truly defines Myanmar as a "Buddhist holy land" is its incredibly impressive and magnificent spiritual architecture. These sacred sites are not only deeply connected to the spiritual lives of the people, but also attract a large number of tourists on their pilgrimage and sightseeing trips to Myanmar.
Hot air balloon rides are one of Myanmar's most unique experiences. During each festival season, around 20 hot air balloons float across the skies of Bagan, creating a magnificent and breathtaking spectacle. (Photo: Ngoc Toan)
The Lunar New Year holiday in Vietnam (February 2020) is also the best time of year to travel to Myanmar. The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for a longer trip. Furthermore, visiting Bagan during this time allows tourists to admire the spectacular displays of hot air balloons.
India - The mystical spiritual land of Asia
India is one of the countries with many unique cultural features, the land where the Indus and Ganges rivers provide the sweet nourishment of nature. When people think of India, they remember faces with deep-set eyes, dark eyebrows, and distinctive traditional clothing.
With its majestic beauty and imposing size, the Himalayas are shrouded in a cloak of snow and wind year-round. (Photo: Le Tu)
In recent years, India has become a popular tourist destination for many Vietnamese people due to its religious diversity and the renowned heritage of the "Indus Valley Civilization": from the high peaks of the Himalayas to the tranquil beaches of Goa…; Old Delhi, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, the Hawa Mahal Palace... are must-see destinations when visiting this country.
An Indian girl at the Ladakh festival 2019 (Photo: Le Tu)
When visiting India, you need to show respect for the local culture by wearing long-sleeved clothing that covers your shoulders, and remember to always remove your shoes when entering temples and shrines in India.
In Indian culture, a glance, a friendly smile, or even a casual remark can be interpreted as flirting or teasing. Therefore, female tourists should avoid talking to strange men, going to crowded places, and ideally, travel in groups of 2-3 friends.
Bhutan - The Happy Nation
Dubbed the happiest country in the world, Bhutan has long been renowned on the global tourism map as a land of "purity" in both nature and people. In this beautiful country, the government and people prioritize happiness over economic growth. Therefore, they live simply, in harmony with nature, and everyone feels full of energy.
The joy of Bhutanese children is palpable (Photo: Reuters)
With its unique geographical location, situated high in the mountains seemingly isolated from the world, Bhutan is often described as the only remaining country with a traditional Himalayan Buddhist culture.
Taktsang Monastery is one of the holiest places in Bhutan, situated 3,000 meters above sea level. Perched on a high cliff, it offers visitors panoramic views of the entire Paro Valley. (Photo: LPA)
One of the must-see destinations when visiting Bhutan is the Druk Path, an ancient trade route that winds through rugged mountains from Paro to Thimphu. Along the way, travelers have the opportunity to admire ancient monasteries and the snow-capped Gangkhar Puensum mountain – a natural masterpiece reaching 7,570 meters.
Some cities that tourists should visit to "enjoy happiness" in Bhutan include Paro, Punakha, and Bhymthang.
Tibet - A land of unease yet captivating
Tibet is currently an autonomous region of China. There are four routes into Tibet: Qinghai-Tibet, Sichuan-Tibet, Tiananmen Square-Tibet, and Xinjiang-Tibet.
Tibet has always captivated tourists with its rugged hills and the mystique of its legends passed down through generations. (Image: Internet)
Located at an average altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level, with complex transportation routes, rugged terrain, and an unstable political situation, tourism in Tibet has not yet fully developed. However, in recent years, Tibet has become a mysterious and fascinating destination, attracting tourists seeking new experiences and a unique culture not found in every country.
The Potala Palace (meaning Bodhisattva Palace) is the residence and workplace of the Dalai Lamas, the spiritual leaders of the Tibetan people. (Image: Internet)
Spring and summer are the best times for pilgrimage and sightseeing in Tibet, as winter temperatures can drop to several tens of degrees below zero. Spring is the season of Tibetan festivals, where visitors can not only explore the mystical Tibet but also enjoy a fascinating New Year celebration away from home.
