In Bao Lam, Lam Dong province, there's a tree that sheds its leaves annually. Each time, it drops almost all its green leaves to be replaced by vibrant red new leaves, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
This tree is called Lôi Khoai and is relatively common in Bao Lam and Bao Loc. However, few are as large and tall as the one pictured, making its leaf-changing season a popular destination for visitors.
The color change lasts about two weeks. As of today (February 19th), the tree has been changing its leaves for five days, leaving approximately ten days for people to visit and take photos with this unique tree.
Location: Loc Thanh Red Leaf Tree - Thôn 10a, Loc Thanh, Bao Lam, Lam Dong.
Starting January 1, 2025, individuals aged 16 to under 18 will still be allowed to operate motorcycles with an engine capacity of 50 cubic centimeters or less. However, those under 16 years of age will not be permitted to operate these vehicles.
The Thác Bà Lake in Yên Bái province, Vietnam, is stunning. Located in Yên Bình and Lục Yên districts, it's one of the largest artificial lakes in Vietnam. Covering approximately 20,000 hectares and surrounded by mountains, the lake is remarkable for its more than 1,300 verdant islands, creating a breathtaking, picturesque scene. (Source: Yên Bái Provincial Electronic Portal)
The Đinh Tiên Hoàng Temple in the ancient capital of Hoa Lư is more than just a majestic architectural structure; it holds profound cultural and historical significance. A particularly striking feature is the four Chinese characters carved on the temple gate: 北 門 鎖 鑰 (Bắc Môn Toả Thược).
These characters can be interpreted literally and figuratively. Literally, "Bắc Môn Toả Thược" means "Lock the North Gate." Ancient people believed that the north was the direction of the north wind, the cold northeast monsoon bringing frost and ice, harming both people and crops. "Locking the North Gate" symbolized a desire to ward off these negative natural influences.
However, a deeper meaning lies in the figurative interpretation. Throughout history, invasions often came from the north. Therefore, "Bắc Môn Toả Thược" also represents a warning and vigilance against northern invaders, reflecting the unwavering spirit of our ancestors in defending their country. These four characters are not merely an architectural detail; they serve as a reminder of Vietnam's glorious history and indomitable spirit, embodying the unwavering determination to protect the nation's sovereignty and prevent enemies from encroaching upon its territory.
Cao Bằng's Unique Mắt Thần (Eye of God) Mountain: A Must-See for Travelers
Mắt Thần Mountain, part of the Thang Hen Lake scenic area within the UNESCO Cao Bang Geopark, is a captivating destination. This stunning location features a system of 36 interconnected lakes spanning Cao Chuong and Quoc Toan communes in Trung Khanh District, approximately 50km from Cao Bang city center.
Its pristine, lush landscape and exciting activities offer a rejuvenating escape, attracting numerous visitors annually who seek to immerse themselves in nature.
Open Thread
Admire the Red Maple Forests of Bach Ma Mountain in Hue
In early February, Hue's weather turns pleasantly cool. The maple trees on Bach Ma Mountain blaze with red, their colors subtly appearing through the mist and clouds, creating a vibrant natural landscape.
The higher you climb, the colder it gets, and the mountain scenery becomes increasingly ethereal in the mist. Bach Ma is Vietnam's only remaining primary forest, stretching from the coast to the Vietnam-Laos border. Here, you can also find abandoned villas, once luxurious retreats for French officers and Hue's elite.
Centuries-old maple trees, growing naturally within the grounds of these historic villas, stand out dramatically against the winter landscape with their fiery red hues.
1. Lung Cu Flagpole (Ha Giang): Located atop Lung Cu mountain, this national flagpole was originally built during the Ly Dynasty and has undergone numerous renovations. The current 30-meter-tall structure was inaugurated in 2010.
2. 17th Parallel Flagpole (Quang Tri): Rebuilt in 2001, this 38.6-meter-tall flagpole, also known as the Hien Luong flagpole, stands by the Ben Hai River and is a significant historical site.
3. Thu Ngu Flagpole (Ho Chi Minh City): Constructed in 1865, this structure is a historical symbol of old Saigon, closely associated with the colonial era.
4. Ca Mau Flagpole: Modeled after the Hanoi flagpole, this site also features exhibits showcasing Ca Mau's natural environment and culture.
5. Hanoi Flagpole: Built in 1805, this flagpole is intertwined with over 200 years of the capital's history and is a key attraction within the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.
6. Lung Po Flagpole (Lao Cai): Construction began in 2016 on this 31.43-meter-tall flagpole, symbolizing Fansipan peak and representing the 25 ethnic groups of Lao Cai.
7. Hue Citadel Flagpole: Built in 1807, this is a significant historical symbol of the ancient capital of Hue, and was renovated in 1840.
8. Hung Hoa Flagpole (Phu Tho): A symbol of the fight against the French, this flagpole is linked to the resistance of the Can Vuong army.
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