Explore Halong Bay with Emeraude Classic Cruises

Comfort on board the Emeraude

In 1906, the Société Anonyme de Chalandage et Remorquage d’Indochine (SACRIC) was renowned for its cruises of Halong Bay on board single-wheeled paddle steamers with such evocative names as Emeraude, Perle, Saphir and Rubis. Almost a century later, in November 2003, Emeraude Classic Cruises will introduce a new regular Halong Bay cruise service with the launch of the Emeraude, a vessel designed to accommodate up to 74 passengers in 37 luxury cabins. The Emeraude has been designed in the tradition of the grand steamers of yesteryear and its refined interior décor will transport the traveller back to the old-world charm of the colonial era, while maintaining modern standards of comfort and safety to make the cruise as enjoyable as possible. The Emeraude offers all the home comforts and personal service you could possibly wish for in its 10.5 square metre air-conditioned cabins with heating for the colder months and ensuite bathrooms. Other facilities include a bar and restaurant on the foredeck, and a sundeck and bar located on the upper deck, from where spectacular views of Halong Bay may be enjoyed.  The Emeraude will operate a two day, one night cruise beginning with a welcome cocktail at the quay at Tuan Chau followed by lunch and in the evening cocktails and a buffet dinner. Breakfast is served the following morning before returning to Tuan Chau Quay. On board optional extras to make the experience even more memorable will include afternoon tea, massages and early morning tai chi. Please contact our Vietnam office at vietnam@exotissimo.com for further information.

Ana Mandara and Six Senses develop new projects

Work has already begun at Ninh Van Bay to develop a new Ana Mandara resort to be known as the New Evason Hideaway Villas. The resort, due to open in late 2004, will feature private pool villas and water villas, among other facilities. Ana Mandara and Six Senses also recently signed a deal to renovate some of Dalat’s colonial villas to create the Ana Mandara Villas at Dalat.

Volunteer force of trained for SEA Games

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City authorities have been busy training volunteers to help visitors attending the upcoming South-East Asian (SEA) Games taking place from 5^th to 14^th December. The volunteer force will be qualified to answer questions and offer advice to visitors on directions, local information and deal with medical emergencies and theft.

Phu Quoc Island gets another resort

Phu Quoc Island

The island of Phu Quoc currently has three hotels, Saigon Phu Quoc being one of them, and the Saigon Phu Quoc Resort No. 2 will make four. Construction is expected to start next year on the resort that will have 150 bungalow-style rooms on 300 hectares of Sao Beach. The resort will keep guests entertained with a golf course, water sports and a wild animal protection area.