Sonasia Holiday

Local travel agency in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos, specializing in tailor-made tour packages

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🌕🏮 Happy Mid-Autumn Festival 2023! 🏮🌕

Hello everyone,

The late autumn days are the perfect time for us to come together and celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, one of Vietnam's most cherished traditional holidays. The full moon shines bright, lanterns sparkle, and delicious mooncakes await us.

This year, let's cherish precious moments with our family and friends. Let's gather together to enjoy the beauty of this festival, share mooncakes, and make lasting memories. May this Mid-Autumn Festival bring you warmth, happiness, and unity.

Wishing you all a wonderful and joyous Mid-Autumn Festival! 🌝🏮🥮

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𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐧𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐞-𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝟑 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐬

The National Assembly approved on Saturday a government proposal to extend the validity of tourist e-visas from 30 to 90 days and allow visitors multiple entries. The legislative body passed the needed amendments to the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam with 470 out of 475 members voting in favor. The amendments take effect on August 15. They also triple to 45 days the duration of visa-free stays for visitors from certain countries. Nationals of some western European countries, Japan and South Korea, Vietnam's top tourism markets, are now permitted to visit without a visa for 15 days. Lawmakers approved issuance of multiple-entry visas, saying it would reduce the administrative burden and save time and money. "A three-month e-visa will meet foreign visitors’ demand to stay longer to explore investment opportunities," Le Tan Toi, head of the NA Committee for Defense and Security, said. Vietnam currently offers e-visas to citizens of 80 countries and territories and waives visa for nationals of 25 countries, mostly for between 15-30 days, a policy considered less generous than other countries in its neighborhood. In the first five months of this year Vietnam received 4.6 million foreign visitors, more than half of the year's target of eight million but still only 63% of pre-pandemic levels.

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Inside 4 Michelin-starred restaurants in Vietnam

1. Anan Saigon 📍 Address: 89 Ton That Dam Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC. 💸 Prices start from VND185,000 ($7.93). 2. Hibana by Koki Restaurant inside Capella Hotel 📍 Address: 11 Le Phung Hieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. 💸 A meal costs from VND6-9 million per person. 3. Tam Vi Restaurant 📍 Address: 4b Yen The Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi. 💸 A meal here costs from VND200,000-500,000. 4. Gia Restaurant 📍 Address: 61 Van Mieu Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi. 💸 Meal prices cost from VND1.7-2 million.

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Before being awarded a one-star rating by Michelin Guide for the first time, four Vietnamese restaurants - one in HCMC and three in Hanoi - were honored by international media and received applause from foreign diners.

🍜 Located inside an old market on Ton That Dam Street near Bitexco Financial Tower in District 1, 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐢𝐠𝐨𝐧 is well known as a fine dining restaurant but specializes in street food-inspired dishes created by its owner and chef, Peter Cuong Franklin.

The restaurant opened its doors in April 2017 and quickly catapulted to global fame for its $100 banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) that is topped off with French foie gras, truffle, a traditional garnish of sliced cucumbers, cilantro and mint and served with a side of fried sweet potatoes and caviar.

Due to its limited space, the restaurant only serves 40 diners at a time.

Other dishes that have helped the restaurant gain a reputation among international foodies are banh xeo taco, a dish consisting of a central Vietnamese region-style banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake) folded into the shape of a Mexican taco and filled with shrimp and pork, Hanoi-style grilled catfish or beef stew.

After five years, the restaurant has received a series of prestigious awards from international cuisine magazines. It was the only representative of Vietnam to be listed among Asia's 50 best restaurants at the World Travel Awards in March.

Prices start from VND185,000 ($7.93).

🍜 𝐇𝐢𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐛𝐲 𝐊𝐨𝐤𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 inside Capella Hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter specializes in serving Japanese cuisine like sashimi, yakitori, grilled meat, and seafood with salads, rice, and noodle dishes.

It was one of three restaurants in Hanoi that have been awarded a Michelin star by the French food guide.

Koki also boasts several secluded dining spaces including four private dining rooms accommodating up to eight guests as well as five other private dining areas each catering for between six to 16 guests.

Chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi told VnExpress that ingredients the most important factor that help his restaurant to be awarded Michelin star.

"I am very strict in choosing materials from vegetables to seafood to ensure freshness," he added.

Yamaguchi hopes the awarding of a Michelin star will help boost Vietnamese cuisine’s reputation on the global map, but what he is concerned for now is how to ensure the best quality of all dishes so that guests realize the restaurant is worth the Michelin star.

In addition to teppanyaki dishes, the restaurant’s menu features a distinctly decadent edge, epitomized by the premium ingredients flown in twice weekly from Japan, such as abalone, spiny lobster, sea urchin, Yaeyama Kyori beef and Hokkaido hairy crab.

A meal costs from VND6-9 million per person.

Last year, it was voted among best new restaurants in Hanoi by readers and travel editors of American magazine Condé Nast Traveler.

🍜 Located on Van Mieu Street in Dong Da District, 𝐓𝐚𝐦 𝐕𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 takes inspiration from the Tonkin period with a touch of northern Vietnamese architecture.

It boasts nostalgic collection of Chinese furniture, hand-written signs and an antique gramophone and telephone.

The restaurant was chosen by Tripadvisor readers in 2023 as one of the best in Hanoi.

The restaurant specializes in serving northern Vietnamese dishes. Its signature dishes include Vietnamese ham with periwinkle (snails) that comes with fresh herbs, vegetables and rice vermicelli with fish sauce.

"High quality cooking, worth a stop," Michelin Guide said.

The restaurant is open from Tuesday until Saturday.

A meal here costs from VND200,000-500,000.

🍜 𝐆𝐢𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 first opened its doors for business in December 2020.

The restaurant’s name means "family" in Vietnamese that derives from the family love of head chef Sam Tran and CEO Long Tran, who have been working abroad for years.

The restaurant decor draws inspiration from Hanoi's Temple of Literature.

Its menu includes dried black apricot, Hmong chicken served with rice, crab with beetroot, scallops with lime, and lamb with black garlic.

💸 Meal prices cost from VND1.7-2 million.

To be honored by Michelin, all restaurants must meet five criteria including the personality of the chef represented in the cuisine, harmony of flavors, mastery of cooking techniques, quality of ingredients, and consistency over time and across the entire menu. **** Source: vnexpress.net

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New Airport in Samneua, Huaphanh

🌟 Exciting News! ✈️ Discover Huaphanh: Your Gateway to Adventure! 🌳🏞️ 📣 Attention travelers and adventure enthusiasts! We're thrilled to announce the launch of the new airport in Samneua, Huaphanh Province, Laos! The flight schedule and more details coming soon. 🛫 Get ready for an extraordinary journey to a destination brimming with natural wonders and cultural delights.

  ⚒ Here's what you can do in Huaphanh: 1️⃣ Explore the Viengxay Caves: Step back in time and venture into the fascinating caves that served as shelters during the Indochina War. Uncover hidden chambers, hospitals, and schools while learning about the region's history. 2️⃣ Immerse in the Local Life of Xam Neua: Immerse yourself in the charming capital city of Huaphanh. Wander through vibrant markets, savor delicious Lao cuisine, and engage with friendly locals for a truly authentic experience. 3️⃣ Feel the Refreshing Waters of Tad Tay Leuk Waterfall: Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Tad Tay Leuk Waterfall. It's the perfect spot to unwind, have a picnic with loved ones, and revel in the beauty of nature. 4️⃣ Embark on a Nam Nern Night Safari: Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Join a night safari along the Nam Nern River, where you'll have the chance to spot elusive wildlife like tigers and elephants while supporting conservation efforts. 5️⃣ Discover Biodiversity at Phu Pateng National Conservation Area: Nature lovers, rejoice! Explore the breathtaking landscapes, go trekking through lush forests, and encounter diverse wildlife, including gibbons, macaques, and rare bird species. 6️⃣ Experience Rural Life in Ban Kan Village: Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying with a welcoming family in Ban Kan Village. Learn traditional handicrafts, enjoy cultural performances, and gain a deeper understanding of traditional farming practices. 7️⃣ Admire the Serenity of That Phu Si: Visit That Phu Si, a sacred site in Xam Neua, and be captivated by the stunning Buddhist stupa. Climb to the top of the hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 8️⃣ Engage in Thrilling Outdoor Activities: Get your adrenaline pumping with cycling and trekking adventures through Huaphanh's picturesque landscapes. Experience the thrill of exploring the countryside, breathing in the fresh air, and embracing nature's wonders. ✨ Huaphanh awaits you with open arms, ready to provide an unforgettable adventure filled with cultural immersion, natural beauty, and enriching experiences. Book your flight now and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime! ✈️🌍 (Note: Please ensure to check the latest travel guidelines and regulations before planning your trip. Stay safe and make the most of your Huaphanh experience!)

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The water festival, also known as Songkran in Thailand, Chol Chnam Thmay in Cambodia, Pi Mai Lao in Laos, and Thingyan in Myanmar, is one of the biggest and most anticipated events of the year in these countries. It marks the beginning of the traditional New Year and is celebrated with a spirited water fight, where people splash water on each other as a symbol of washing away the previous year's misfortunes and welcoming a fresh start. In addition to the water fights, there are also parades, cultural performances, and religious ceremonies that take place during the festivities. Traditional foods and drinks are also prepared, and families come together to celebrate the occasion. The water festival is a time of joy and togetherness, where people let their hair down and enjoy the company of loved ones and strangers alike. It's an experience not to be missed!

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🧐🧐Curious about traveling in Myanmar now? Follow our latest client having a journey in Myanmar right now to have the ideas of what is going on now. #visitmyanmarnow #visitmyanmaraftercovid #myanmarsafetravel 🥳 Planning to visit Myanmar? Contact us now: ☎️ WhatsApp: [phone] 📧 Email: [email protected]

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Thailand Events & Festivals, February 2023

February is a wonderful time of the year to be visiting Thailand, with the cooler climate making travelling around even more enjoyable. Flowers and foliage are in bloom in the north of Thailand, popular places like Phuket and Krabi are as amazing as ever, and there are fantastic festivals and events to experience.

Here are some of the key events and occasions to visit during February:

📌𝐑𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐚

February, 2023, Nong Han Kum Pavapi, Udon Thani

Each year from November through February, millions of pink water lillies bloom on Nong Han Lake in what’s known as the ‘Red Lotus Sea’ or Talay Bua Daeng. The best time to see this is from around 06.00-11.00 Hrs. before the flowers close up, and boats can be hired to take visitors out on trips usually 45-90 minutes in duration.

📌𝐀𝐦𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐮𝐚𝐲𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐢 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

2-6 February, 2023, Rajabhat Park, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan

This exciting event will showcase the world-class Thai martial art form of Muay Thai, and coincides with the annual National Muay Thai Day on 6 February. The programme includes a Wai Kru ceremony with 5,000 participants to set a new Guinness World Record, Muay Thai exhibition, Muay Thai industry promotional activities, and sales of merchandise and local cuisine to enjoy.

📌𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐢 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

3-5 February, 2023, Nong Buak Hat Public Park, Chiang Mai

A popular event for locals and tourists from around the world, this festival is a magnificent occasion full of floral and agricultural beauty and takes place while many local flower species are in bloom during the cooler season. The programme includes a delightful street parade of beautifully decorated flower floats, grand stage show, Queen of the Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2023 contest, sales of flowers, plants, seeds and other items, and of course, flowers everywhere.

📌𝐒𝐮𝐤𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐢 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 & 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

4 February,2023, Wat Sra Sri, Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai

This much-anticipated annual event highlights the history and prosperity of the Sukhothai Kingdom, an ancient Thai capital, as a source of national heritage. This year presents a total of 7 shows, which are scheduled on every first Saturday of the month, on 4 February, 4 March, 1 April, 6 May, 3 June, 1 July, and 5 August. The show starts at 19.30 Hrs.

📌𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐤𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

4-12 February, 2023, 9 Districts in Bangkok

This the sixth edition of the Bangkok Design Week is being held under the theme “urban’NICE’zation” and features over 530 online and offline activities spread throughout the nine districts of Charoenkrung – Talad Noi, Yaowarat, Samyan – Siam, Ari – Pradipat, Phra Nakhon / Pak Khlong Talat / Nang Loeng, Wongwian Yai – Talat Phlu / Khlong San, Bang Pho, Phrom Phong, and Kaset. The programme includes showcases and exhibitions, talks and workshops, musical performances, movie screenings, and performing art.

📌𝐇𝐮𝐚 𝐇𝐢𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐠𝐚 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

4, 11, 18 and 25 February, 2023, Khao Takiab Beach in front of Verson Hotel, Hua Hin

Health enthusiast, yoga lovers, and anyone interested are invited to join a blissful yoga experience from top yoga gurus with over 10-year experience. Participants are advised to bring their own yoga mat and wear flexible and comfortable outfit. The is event is free of charge, but registration is required at https://eform.tourismthailand.org/public/hua-hin-yoga-festival-2023 .

📌𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 #𝟑𝟎

5, 12 and 19 February, 2023, from 17.30 Hrs., Sala Bhirombhakdi, Lumpini Park, Bangkok

Organised by the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), this latest edition of the much-loved Concert in the Park series promises relaxing evenings of music in a delightful park setting. Along with guest soloists and vocalists, the programme features a mix of light-classical music, Thai and Western pop classics, famous movie soundtracks, Broadway numbers, and Thai traditional tunes.

📌𝐔𝐧𝐊𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

9-10 February, 2023, Alexa Beach Club, Pattaya, Chon Buri

In its fourth edition, the UnKonscious Beach Festival 2023 comprises a pool party in the afternoon (12.00-16.00 Hrs.) and a beach party from evening into the late night (16.00-24.00 Hrs.). The event is hosted by an impressive line-up of renowned international DJs. For more information, visit: https://www.unkonsciousfestival.com/, or Facebook: unkonsciousfestival.

📌𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐢 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

10-19 February, 2023, King Narai’s Palace, Muang District, Lop Buri

This fascinating cultural event will include an historical procession, worship dance, the ‘Narai Naruemit’ garden beautifully presented with light decorations and characters of mythical creatures, showcase of the ancient Thai traditional medicine dated some 300 years ago, the changing of the royal guard, and money folk theatre. There are numerous other activities for visitors to enjoy, such as, human chess, an ancient-style market, cultural courtyard, cultural performance, and local food, as well as OTOP products on sale.

📌𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐁𝐢𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐦: 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑

11 February in Udon Thani, and 14 February in Khon Kaen

The Biggles Big Band, a 25-piece jazz orchestra from Amsterdam, will be performing at the ‘Udon Thani International JAZZ @the museum’ on 11 February, from 18.00 Hrs. at Udon Thani Museum. They will be performing at the Khon Kaen International Jazz Festival 2023, on 14 February, from 17.30 – 22.00 Hrs. at the Treasury Museum, Khon Kaen. Admission to both event is free. Performances at Udon Thani and Khon Kaen is part of the band’s Thailand Tour 2023, scheduled during 9-24 February, in Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, Phuket and Hua Hin.

📌𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭-𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲

14 February, 2023, Surin Public Park, Surin

One of the most unique Siamese ways to get married, this sacred ceremony known as the “Sut Tae” ritual will see the local people (known as Kuai) help couples wed in the traditional style. The grooms, clad in Thai silk, ride a majestic elephant with great pomp to greet their brides-to-be who join them atop their gigantic steed. A parade takes place as special ceremonies are performed to ensure a long and happy union. The marriage registration formalities take place while the couples are on the elephants.

📌𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 & 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐢

18 February, 2023, Phimai Historical Park, 16.00-20.00 Hrs., Nakhon Ratchasima

This colourful event celebrates the culture and heritage of Phimai, a prominent town during the time of the Khmer Empire. The programme includes guided tours around Phimai Historical Park – home to the largest stone Khmer temple in Thailand, traditional welcoming and blessing ceremonies, Isan (Northeast Thailand) folk music performances, and ‘ancient market’ style shops selling local food.

Source: tatnews.org

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Happy Valentine's Day 2023!

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‘Gingala Lanna Bird Dance’ of Thailand

Admire for yourself the grace and elegance of this Thai Yai-style dance, which has been passed down from generation to generation and is mostly performed in Upper Northern Thailand, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai provinces.

In the Gingala Lanna Bird Dance, female performers dressed in spectacular fan-shaped costumes evoke the delicate movements and postures of a bird. Another delightful expression of ‘Thainess’, the dance is fascinating, intriguing, and beautiful in its posture, attire, and melody.

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🥳𝐖𝐀𝐓 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐔 𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 has been confirmed on February 3rd-5th. 🤩Let's come and join one of the most impressive festival in Laos with us. 🥸Further info: ☎️ 089 862 37 33 📨 [email protected]

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🎉🎉🎉 LAOS ENTRY REQUIREMENT UPDATES: ❌No more Covid-19 vaccination proof required ❌No more negative Covid-19 test result required

🌞🌞🌞Starting from December 23rd, 2023 🥳🥳🥳𝐈𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝-𝟏𝟗. Planning to visit Laos? Contact us now: 📞 [phone] 📧 [email protected]

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🥳🥳Yes, he did it! he explored Phongsaly, one of the least visited areas of Laos! Have no idea of this excellent adventure, learn more about Phongsaly here: https://sonasia-holiday.com/laos-travel/phongsaly

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🥳🥳🥳𝐋𝐚𝐨𝐬 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟏𝟑-𝟐𝟎 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 Initiated in 2006 by an NGO working for years with the elephants, this annual meeting of Laos Elephant Festival became one of the big festivals of Laos, followed by thousands of Laotians who move to attend a number of exercises, parades, and elections of the most emblematic animal of Laos. Fifty elephants are walking around for 3 days in the streets of the small provincial town. A large market takes place for the occasion with all kinds of local (or Thai) products. Home to the country’s largest pachyderm population, Xayabouly Province is the natural choice to host this growing event that also aims to raise awareness about the need to protect the endangered Asian elephant, which has played such a vital role in Lao people’s livelihoods, culture and heritage. More about Laos Elephant Festival here: https://sonasia-holiday.com/sonabee/laos-elephant-festival Interested? Contact us now: WhatsApp: [phone] Email: [email protected]

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𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐉𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞

Celebrations took place in Xieng Khuang province on Tuesday (Nov 29) to formally mark Unesco’s listing of the Plain of Jars as Laos’ third world heritage site.

The formal declaration of the Plain of Jars as a world heritage site took place during the 43rd Session of the World Heritage Committee in Baku, Azerbaijan, on July 10, 2019.

The ceremony in Xieng Khuang province was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Prof Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, the Deputy Governor of Xieng Khuang province, Sengviay Sengchalern, and representatives of Unesco in Bangkok, Thailand.

Prof Dr Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune hits the drum to mark Unesco’s listing of the Plain of Jars as Laos’ third world heritage site.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Suanesavanh Vignaket, said the Plain of Jars world heritage proposal involved 11 separate sites that contained 1,325 large and small ancient stone jars in the districts of Paek, Phaxay, Phoukoud and Kham.

The jars were carved from sandstone and granite, and their size ranges from very small to about three metres in height. They are thought to be 2,500 -3,000 years old.

There are also a number of stone slabs, which are thought to be lids for the jars, or tombstones, while tools and other items of archaeological interest were found around the jars.

The Plain of Jars is located at the intersection of two major cultural systems during the Iron Age in South-East Asia and the area is known to be a place of migration within the region, resulting in trade and cultural exchanges, Suanesavanh said.

The recognition of the Megalithic Jar Sites by Unesco is expected to swell visitor numbers and bolster the economy of Xieng Khuang province.

According to experts, the Plain of Jars comprises about 80 distinct sites but only 11 are included in the listed area as they have the highest concentration of stone jars.

Jars have also been found in Phoukhoun district in Luang Prabang province, which borders Xieng Khuang province.

Three large sites in Paek district are particularly popular with visitors. The first site is 15km southwest of the provincial capital Phonsavanh, and has about 300 jars.

The second site is 25km south of Phonsavanh and contains about 90 jars spread over two hills. The third site is 35km southeast of Phonsavanh and has about 150 jars.

Laos achieved Unesco recognition of its first world heritage site in 1995 when Luang Prabang’s old town was nominated for listing. The second followed in 2001 when the Vat Phou temple complex in Champassak province was declared a world heritage site.

The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism is currently working on a submission to Unesco with regard to the Hin Namno National Protected Area, otherwise known as the Stone Karst Formation Forest, in Khammuan province. Source: https://www.thestar.com.my

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𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐎𝐃𝐈𝐀: 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐝

⏰⏰Starting October 3rd, 2022

Cambodia has apparently taken the final step towards full reopening of the country without Covid-19 restrictions by removing all requirements for inbound travelers, who until now had to show health certificates indicating that they have tested Covid-19 negative in the past 72 hours as well as showing their vaccination cards.

“We have removed the requirement for all inbound travelers in all modes of transport: Land, waterways and air. They no longer need to produce health certificates or show proof of full vaccination upon arrival," said Minister of Health Mam Bun Heng in an October 3 announcement. The decision, which takes effect immediately, followed Prime Minister Hun Sen’s recommendation. The premier said last week that he had urged the removal of all restrictions after he travelled to the US’ New York City for the 77th UN General Assembly (UNGA), noting that the authorities at the airports there were not checking vaccination cards or testing anyone. Bun Heng said travelers will still be required to have their temperatures taken when arriving at border crossings. Also, health officials and relevant officials in charge of quarantine will remain at borders and airports to check travelers and provide advice to them if necessary. The minister also urged all people who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated immediately and for everyone to maintain infection preventive measures. Source: https://www.phnompenhpost.com/

[sonasiaholiday]

🥳🥳🥳 Though Boun Awk Phansa is on October 10th, the festive season of Laos starts this weekends with plenty of playgrounds, beer gardens, or trade fairs opening throughout the country. In Luang Prabang, one of the biggest festivals, Boun Lai Heua Fai or Festival of the boats of light will be celebrated from today until October 12th with plenty of festive activities. In Vientiane, the exciting boat racing festival also begins from this weekends and reaches its peak on October 11th. Let's come and join the festivals in Laos with us! ##### 📌https://sonasia-holiday.com/sonabee/boun-awk-phansa 📌https://sonasia-holiday.com/sonabee/laos-boat-racing-festival 📌https://sonasia-holiday.com/sonabee/luang-prabang-festival-of-light

[sonasiaholiday]

🚣‍♀️🚣‍♀️Interested in a boat trip throughout the old streets of Hoi An? It is now the best time! *** Hoi An after the storm September 28th, 2022