NINH BINH — Phat Diem Church in the northern province of Ninh Binh will attract thousands of local Christians and tourists to celebrate Christmas next week with its special Christmas service, unique architecture and peaceful surroundings.

"How many ways are there to cool off in the city?" a friend asked me, which, I assumed, was a rhetorical question. Let me tell you, I have been living an urban existence for 21 years and still, I can only count the ways to blow off steam in the city on my fingers.

Black Lady Mountain is home to a series of fascinating pagodas and was once the HQ of southern liberation forces.

Thousands of rocks in different shapes and s create the uniqueness of Ham Ho, also known as the “Forest of Stone”, in the central province of Binh Dinh. 

In the words of the local Thai ethnic people, Pu Luong means the "highest peak". Its loftiest zenith towering 1,700m above the valleys of Quan Hoa and Ba Thuoc districts, in the northern province of Thanh Hoa, about 250km south of Ha Noi. 

Nha Trang, a hub of activity since French colonial times, is still a magnet for those seeking a sandy beach, relaxing days, and exciting nights. 

The pristine beauty of Quan Lan Beach has yet to be spoiled and is a mecca for tourists. The deep blue waters, strong waves and white sandy beaches span over several kilometres. Wild, green pines flank the beach, which adds charm to the pristine location. 

One of the nation's larg-est rainforests in Cuc Phuong National Park in the northern province of Ninh Binh has become a hot destination for adventure and nature lovers, complete with wildlife treks and homestays in the communes of Thai and Muong ethnic groups.