Tonkin Travel

Tonkin Travel Tonkin Travel (original since 2001)
Tonkin Travel arranges everything you need in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos. Travel the way YOU want!
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🚤✨ Boun Suang Heua - Laos' Thrilling Boat Racing Festival! ✨🌊Every October, the people of Laos gather along the Mekong R...
25/10/2024

🚤✨ Boun Suang Heua - Laos' Thrilling Boat Racing Festival! ✨🌊

Every October, the people of Laos gather along the Mekong River to celebrate Boun Suang Heua, an iconic boat racing festival.
This vibrant event brings together tradition, spirituality, and community in an unforgettable display of Lao culture. 🇱🇦

🏆 The Boat Races: Teams of rowers from local villages compete in long, beautifully decorated boats, paddling with strength and skill as crowds cheer from the riverbanks.
This friendly yet fierce competition honors Laos' close connection to its rivers and showcases the unity and pride of Lao communities. 🛶💪

🙏 Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
Beyond racing, Boun Suang Heua is about gratitude.
The festival honors the river gods and celebrates the river’s role in nourishing the land. Coinciding with the end of Buddhist Lent, many participants join in the peaceful Loy Krathong ceremony, releasing candle-lit boats into the river as a symbol of remembrance and respect. 🕯️

🎶 Festivities and Celebration: The riverside transforms into a lively festival ground with traditional Lao music, dance, and markets brimming with local food and crafts. The energy is contagious, and visitors get a unique glimpse into Lao life, tradition, and joy.

If you’re in Laos, Boun Suang Heua is an experience you won’t want to miss—a true celebration of life, community, and the beauty of Lao culture!

Mekong River offers us a rich and varied experience, drawing visitors to explore the cultural, natural, and historical t...
30/09/2024

Mekong River offers us a rich and varied experience, drawing visitors to explore the cultural, natural, and historical treasures spread across Vietnam and Cambodia.
One of the most popular activities is cruising, where we can glide through stunning landscapes, stopping at remote villages, bustling markets, and iconic sites like Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Luang Prabang in Laos.
Starting in Vietnam, we explore the rich history of the capital city of Hanoi, Sapa with golden rice terraces, Halong Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the imperial city of Hue, and the ancient town of Hoi An. Then, we flock to lively floating markets such as Cai Rang, where traders sell fresh produce and local goods from boats.
Crossing the border into Cambodia, we get deep insights into the country's history by visiting the capital Phnompenh with the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Into the mythical world, one of the most awe-inspiring ancient civilizations in history with Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap.
Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument, is a stunning display of Khmer architecture and artistry. Its intricate bas-reliefs depict epic stories from Hindu mythology.
We finish our journey with Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and its Kampong Phluk, a local village where we see houses on stilts, impressive flooded forests, and a portrayal of life on the water.

Join us on an exciting journey exploring the Mekong via Vietnam and Cambodia

https://tonkintravel.com/itinerary/passion-vietnam-and-cambodia-20d-19n/

The Mekong River is one of the longest rivers in the world, flowing over 4,350 kilometers from Tibet through China, Myan...
24/09/2024

The Mekong River is one of the longest rivers in the world, flowing over 4,350 kilometers from Tibet through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, emptying into the South China Sea. It supports a diverse ecosystem, home to species like the Irrawaddy dolphin and the Mekong giant catfish.
This river is a lifeline for over 60 million people, supporting through agriculture, fishing, and hydropower.
The river is crucial for the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, providing fertile land for rice paddies, fruit orchards, and fish farms, making it one of the world's most productive rice-growing regions.
However, the Mekong faces significant challenges, including ecosystem disruption from dams, pollution, and the effects of climate change, which threaten both the environment and local economies.
The delta's intricate network of canals and tributaries makes it a popular destination for boat tours, offering glimpses of traditional river life and vibrant floating markets.

Stay tuned for more exciting activities along the Mekong Delta!

The Asian elephant, Laos' national animal, holds deep cultural and historical significance, symbolizing strength and pro...
21/09/2024

The Asian elephant, Laos' national animal, holds deep cultural and historical significance, symbolizing strength and prosperity.
Laos was once called the "Land of a Million Elephants" (Lan Xang), reflecting its strong connection to these majestic creatures.
Elephants were central to many traditional ceremonies and festivals, symbolizing power and spiritual connection. However, due to logging, deforestation, and habitat loss, the elephant population in Laos has sharply declined.
Today, Laos is committed to protecting its elephant population through active conservation efforts.
Programs like the Elephant Conservation Center in Sayaboury focus on rehabilitation, breeding, and sustainable tourism, helping to preserve this iconic species while promoting awareness and eco-friendly practices that support both elephants and local communities.

Chả cá, also known as "Cha ca" is a renowned Vietnamese dish originating from Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam.It featur...
13/09/2024

Chả cá, also known as "Cha ca" is a renowned Vietnamese dish originating from Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam.
It features grilled fish, usually catfish or snakehead fish, marinated with turmeric and other spices.
The fish is cooked on a sizzling pan and served with a variety of side dishes, including rice noodles (bún), fresh herbs like dill and cilantro, peanuts, and dipping sauces such as fermented shrimp paste (mắm tôm) or fish sauce (nước mắm).

What makes chả cá special is how it's eaten: diners add herbs, peanuts, and sauce to their bowls, creating a personalized mix of flavors.
Chả cá is often enjoyed in a lively setting, where the sizzling fish is cooked right at the table. This dish is not just a meal but a must-try experience in Vietnamese cuisine.

Abbiamo trascorso un agosto così intenso di lavoro e pieno di emozioni. Di seguito i volti felici di alcuni dei nostri c...
06/09/2024

Abbiamo trascorso un agosto così intenso di lavoro e pieno di emozioni. Di seguito i volti felici di alcuni dei nostri clienti italiani che ci hanno scelto per le loro vacanze in Vietnam, Cambogia, Laos, Indonesia e Thailandia 🫶🫶🫶

We had such a busy August full of emotions. Below are the smiling and happy faces of some of our Italian guests who have chosen us for their holidays in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia and Thailand 🫶🫶🫶

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quang Binh city - central Vietnam, famous for its ext...
22/08/2024

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quang Binh city - central Vietnam, famous for its extraordinary karst landscapes, including mountains, limestone formations, and, of course, caves.
The park is home to the world’s LARGEST CAVE!, Son Doong, as well as many other impressive caves like Phong Nha and Tien Son Cave. These caves have beautiful formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
The park is also rich in wildlife, with many rare animals and plants living in its dense forests. Visitors can explore the caves, hike through the jungle, or take boat trips along the river that runs through the park.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a chance to experience some of Vietnam's most breathtaking natural wonders.

Ta Prohm is one of Cambodia's most iconic temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Built in the late 12th century by K...
19/08/2024

Ta Prohm is one of Cambodia's most iconic temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this temple was originally a Buddhist monastery and university.
Ta Prohm is unique because of how nature has intertwined with the ruins. Massive trees, with their roots sprawling over the walls and through the structures, create a mystical atmosphere.
The temple also appeared in the movie "Tomb Raider", which has made it one of Angkor's most iconic sites.
To get to Ta Prohm Temple, we visit the Angkor Archaeological Park which is about 6 kilometers away from Siem Reap International Airport.
We can hire a tuk-tuk, rent a bike, or take a guided tour.
Ta Prohm is located within the park, and it's best to start your visit early in the day to avoid crowds.

Apsara dance is a traditional Cambodian dance that tells ancient stories through graceful movements. Dancers wear beauti...
13/08/2024

Apsara dance is a traditional Cambodian dance that tells ancient stories through graceful movements. Dancers wear beautiful costumes with intricate jewelry and crowns, making them look like celestial beings from Khmer mythology.
This dance form is known for its slow, elegant gestures and delicate hand movements, which require years of practice to perfect.
The Apsara dance is often performed during cultural festivals and special events in Cambodia, showcasing the country's rich heritage. Each dance has a story, usually depicting Hindu and Buddhist mythology scenes.
The Apsara dancers, with their serene expressions and precise movements, express the beauty and spirituality of Cambodian culture, preserving an important part of their history for future generations to appreciate.


🌸 The Lotus in Vietnamese Culture 🌸In Vietnam, the lotus flower (hoa sen) symbolizes purity and enlightenment, blooming ...
06/08/2024

🌸 The Lotus in Vietnamese Culture 🌸

In Vietnam, the lotus flower (hoa sen) symbolizes purity and enlightenment, blooming beautifully even in muddy waters to represent overcoming life's challenges. In Buddhism, it signifies spiritual awakening and is featured in art and temples. As a national emblem, it appears on old currency and in local crafts, reflecting its deep cultural significance. The lotus also has practical uses in traditional cuisine and medicine and is celebrated in festivals and ceremonies

Each country has its own flag, representing the nation’s independence and freedom. Laos is no exception.Laos flag was fi...
03/08/2024

Each country has its own flag, representing the nation’s independence and freedom. Laos is no exception.
Laos flag was first adopted in 1945, then re-adopted in 1975 when the Lao People's Democratic Republic came to power.
It features three horizontal stripes: red, blue, and red.
The central blue stripe symbolizes the importance of the Mekong River which flows through the country and supports its agriculture and trade.
The red stripes represent the bloodshed of Laos people in their fight for independence and freedom.
At the center of the flag is a white circle, symbolizing unity and hope for a bright future.

If you have plans to travel to Laos, take a look at some of our itineraries and don’t hesitate to contact us. Our travel consultant will promptly respond and provide the necessary information to meet your needs.

https://tonkintravel.com/en/travel-locations/laos/

Have you ever thought about reducing your environmental impact while traveling? Here are some simple ways to do it:1. Ch...
30/07/2024

Have you ever thought about reducing your environmental impact while traveling?
Here are some simple ways to do it:

1. Choose eco-Friendly accommodation: Stay at hotels or any accommodations that save energy and water.

2. Use public transport: Take buses, trains, or walk instead of renting a car. This helps to reduce your creation of carbon.

3. Pack light: Less luggage means less fuel used for transport.

4. Save water and energy: Reuse towels and turn off electrical appliances when not needed.

5. Support local businesses: Buy from shops and eat at restaurants that use local products.

6. Cut down on plastic: Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.

7. Be considerate of other visitors: Keep loud noise to a minimum, avoid overcrowding campsites.

8. Buy smart: Choose products with less packaging or packaging that can be recycled.



We have once again been awarded for our efforts 😌
10/07/2024

We have once again been awarded for our efforts 😌

In Cambodia, the monk blessing culture holds deep significance in both religious and cultural contexts. Monks, revered a...
03/07/2024

In Cambodia, the monk blessing culture holds deep significance in both religious and cultural contexts. Monks, revered as spiritual leaders and embodiments of Buddhist teachings, play a central role in bestowing blessings upon individuals and communities. Seeking a monk's blessing is believed to bring merit, good fortune, and protection from harm.

The ritual often involves offering alms, such as food, flowers, or incense, to the monks, who then chant prayers and sprinkle holy water over the recipients. Monks also conduct blessing ceremonies for special occasions, such as weddings, births, and housewarmings, to invoke blessings for prosperity and happiness.

This tradition not only strengthens the bonds between the community and the monastic order but also serves as a reflection of Cambodia's deeply rooted Buddhist heritage and reverence for spiritual guidance.

A fun fact about motorbikes in Vietnam is that they play a central role in the daily lives of its people and are often c...
26/06/2024

A fun fact about motorbikes in Vietnam is that they play a central role in the daily lives of its people and are often considered the country's primary mode of transportation. With approximately 45 million registered motorbikes for around 99 million people, Vietnam has one of the highest motorbike ownership rates in the world.

Apart from serving as the main means of transport, motorbikes are also used to transport goods, from large furniture to animals. The bustling streets of Vietnam are filled with the sounds of motorbike engines, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere for this country.



Traveling is more than just seeing sights; it's about feeling the warmth of hospitality, smelling the exotic plants and ...
05/06/2024

Traveling is more than just seeing sights; it's about feeling the warmth of hospitality, smelling the exotic plants and local food, and hearing the daily life rumors, particularly the laughter of the locals.

We are thrilled to have lovely friends from the Netherlands who have thoroughly enjoyed our country and have graciously allowed us to share their wonderful experiences in Vietnam with those who have already visited or plan to visit.

"We had a great time; thanks for all the organization. We're leaving Vietnam with pain in our hearts. Hung was and is fantastic; thank you for letting him guide us. Love and greetings from the whole group."

Address

5b Lane 111 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho
Hanoi

Opening Hours

Monday 08:30 - 17:30
Tuesday 08:30 - 17:30
Wednesday 08:30 - 17:30
Thursday 08:30 - 17:30
Friday 08:30 - 17:30
Saturday 08:30 - 12:00

Telephone

+84902167769

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Tonkin Travel Story

Founded by two energetic Hanoi women with vast experience in Vietnam tourism, our company has been taking our clients on exciting adventures and relaxing holidays since 2001. Even as Tonkin Travel has quickly grown through word of mouth the original commitment to personal service and understanding has not diminished – and that is the way it will stay. Tonkin Travel is a family company and as such we like to support and be involved with the community wherever we can.

Tonkin (Dông Kinh in Vietnamese), also spelled Tongkin or Tongking, is the northernmost part of Vietnam, south of China’s Yunnan and Guangxi Provinces, east of northern Laos, and west of the Gulf of Tonkin. Locally, it is known as Bac Bo, meaning “Northern Region” (Vietnamese version of Tonkin Travel is Du Lich Bac Bo). Located on the fertile delta of the Red River, Tonkin is rich in rice production.

We are fully registered by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. International tour operator license: 0165/2002/TCDL- GLHQ.


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