in Architecture

In the Era of Constant Rebuilding, We Turn to Vietnamese Modernism for Nostalgic Comfort

For two years now, I've checked the Vietnamese Modernist Architecture Facebook group almost every day. Here, members post ...

in Environment

How Laos's Dams Are Powering Vietnam, Other ASEAN Nations Despite Mekong Concerns

Following a spate of foreign investment in the 1990s, Laos began producing surplus electricity and looked to export it. Today, around 80% of its energy, largely from hydropower, is sold to neighbors. Electricity exports from Laos generate around US$2.6 billion for what is one of the poorest nations in mainland Southeast Asia. Across the region, neighbors including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia have become reliant on hydropower from Laos. Slowly but surely, however, this is changing.

in Architecture

A Pop-up Night Park Brings the Joy of Playing in the Rain to Phú Mỹ Hưng

A lack of public spaces and activities has been a chronic problem plaguing Saigon’s urban planning since the city experienced its first population boom a few decades ago. If you happen to be near District 7 in the next two months, a pop-up park could be a new option for children, and perhaps some particularly exuberant adults, to frolic in the rain and the evening.

Elise Luong

in Environment

Living, Learning, Loving From the Earth at Ninh Bình's Lá Library

A stone's throw away from Cúc Phương National Park in Ninh Bình Province sits Lá Library, an education center promoting sustainable living through sustainable agriculture farming, earthen building techniques and the art of chilling out.

in Architecture

The Saigon House That Swapped Its Front Door for a Moat

Does a house need walls?

Paul Christiansen

in Natural Selection

Is the Yeti Vietnamese? This Ancient Ape Might Hold the Answer.

Can you name a Vietnamese animal that hasn’t been hunted to the precipice of extinction or become a commodified item whose flesh, fur, or feathers are only deemed significant in relation to their practical use by humans?

in Architecture

This Suburban Hanoi House Answers 'Yes' to 'How Many Windows Do You Want?'

Do you love the tropical summer? Does bathing in the warmth of the sun spark joy in you? How many windows are enough to solar-power your everyday life? If you, too, are toiling with these existential concerns on a daily basis, perhaps this recent residential project might provide some inspiration.

in Health

A Hanoi Duo Crafts Intricate Silicone and Clay Prostheses for People With Disabilities

“The products we make are fake arms, legs, noses, ears… from silicone. The value we create is emotional healing, giving our customers confidence in themselves and their lives — the things they lack after surgeries,” Phúc shared while introducing their products. 

Back Society

in Education

One Student’s Advice on Getting an International University Scholarship

More students in Vietnam are opting to attend international high schools, which prepares them to study at some of the top universities around the world.

in Health

Maternity Mortality Rates Fall; Contraceptive Rates Rise in Vietnam: Health Ministry

Maternal mortality rates have dropped nearly 75% since the 1990s, from 233 per 100,000 live births to 58.3.

in Architecture

[Photos] This Da Nang Hẻm Cafe Is Like a Contemporary Greenhouse

This new hẻm coffee shop in Da Nang epitomizes a neat balance between cost-effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.

in Tech

New Zero-Commission Ride-Hailing Platform to Launch in Vietnam in July

The blockchain-based platform wants a piece of the ride-hailing pie in Vietnam following Uber's retreat from Southeast Asia's market.

in Society

[Video] Reflecting on a 2,000km Bicycle Ride From Hanoi to Saigon for Charity

Last month, 19 intrepid cyclists rode nearly 2,000 kilometers from Hanoi to Saigon, all in the name of charity.

in Tech

Vietnam Earns Peanuts in Tax From Facebook, Google Despite Their Massive Profits

The technology and social media empires are raking in enormous revenues, but as a result of the limitations of Vietnam's current tax laws and poor regulation, very little of that money stays in the co...

in Architecture

[Photos] Old Couple Moves to Long An, Builds Vietnam's Fanciest Chicken Coop

Although domestic animals such as cats and dogs are the norm when it comes to keeping pets, for residents of Vietnam's countryside, backyard birds are viable options.

in Development

One of Hanoi’s Last Remaining Wet Markets, Chau Long, Is Still Standing Strong, But for How Long?

Located in the center of Hanoi’s Ba Dinh District, Chau Long Market stands in stark contrast to the surrounding urban residences and bustling streets. It is one of the last remaining traditional marke...

in Development

'Cable Car' Tourism Developer FLC Group Wants to Build a Mega-Resort in Quang Ngai

Experts and locals have voiced concerns over the impact a proposed mega-resort on the coast in Quang Ngai Province may have on the environment and the local community.

in Development

After Phu Quoc, Hoi An Is Getting a $4bn Casino Complex

The biggest casino in Vietnam will open next year.

in Development

Opinion: In Response to the Surreal Rise of Vietnam's Gated Communities

Our recent article on gated communities generated a lot of conversation, and we’ve decided to publish this letter from a Hanoi-based expat in response. The views and opinions expressed ...

Thi Nguyen

in Society

Vietnam's #MeToo Movement Begins With Sexual Assault Allegation at Tuoi Tre

Misogyny is alive and well and will continue to be so if no action is taken to eradicate it.

in Health

Vietnam Hospitals Seek Police Help, Open Martial Arts Class to Combat Violence Against Staff

A slew of violent attacks against medical staff in public hospitals all over Vietnam recently have prompted hospital administrations to take action.

in Society

[Video] The Story of Tungage, Vietnam's Star Freestyle Footballer

You might have come across Doan Thanh Tung if you’ve ever taken a stroll on Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street at night. Just look for a lithe guy in his late 20s doing amazing tricks with a football using ...

in Development

Opinion: The Surreal Rise of Vietnam's Gated Communities

Vietnam is shifting from the old world to the new. As socialism yields to capitalism, waves of foreign investment are reshaping both the nation’s values and its landscapes. In rural areas, these winds...

in Architecture

[Photos] This Brick 'Cave House' in Hanoi Is a Blast From the Past

The breathable home uses a double layer of recycled bricks to protect against the wind and sun while incorporating green elements and natural light.

in Development

Vietnam to Launch Investigation Into Destructive 'Land Fever' on Phu Quoc Island

Squatters, deforestation and illegal land brokers threaten the island’s master plan.

in Society

The Unseen Layers of Donkey Bakery

I almost missed the entrance to the bakery as its sign was partly obscured by a leafy tree. I skidded to a stop and hurried in to my appointment. Behind the counter, a manager was speaking in hushed, ...

in Health

Around 16% of Saigoneers Suffer From Mental Health Issues: Health Expert

Around 16% of Saigon citizens reported having some mental health issues, but the city lacks the physical facilities or health professionals to adequately treat them.

in Education

From South Korea to Vietnam and Hong Kong: A Student’s Inspiring Educational Journey

Han Bin Kim has taken an unusual path to university.