The family members were eager to explore the village dating back more than 1,500 years and holding its unique synthesis of historical allure and modern elements.
Duong Lam in Son Tay Town, Hanoi is proving to be an idyllic destination for those seeking a formal yet immersive cultural experience. As the village unfolds its historical layers, it stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation in the heart of Vietnam.
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| The first stop of the tour is the house of artisan Nguyen Tan Phat, which also serves as a showroom for his signature products. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The ambassador's family sits on the Dragon bench, the zodiac symbol for the year 2024. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The artisan shares the meaning behind each piece of art. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The next stop is a 400-year house, which is recognised as a historical monument in Son Tay Town. Photo: Hoang Nam |
Amidst the hustle and bustle of modernity, Duong Lam remains steadfast in preserving its profound ancient characteristics. The locals, deeply rooted in their cultural heritage, have chosen to act as stewards, contributing to the development of community-based tourism. This commitment has not only maintained the authenticity of the village but has also resulted in a remarkable 30% increase in visitor numbers over the previous year, with around 120,000 tourists welcomed this year.
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| The ambassador's family listens to the history of the house and its architectural structure. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The ambassador's family enjoys a fresh homemade che lam with delight. Photo: Hoang Nam |
Emma, the daughter of the ambassador, was extremely excited to try che lam or sticky rice ginger bars. She and her mother savored it with gusto, nodding their heads in approval and saying "Ngon qua!" (So delicious) in Vietnamese. Even more joyfully, the ambassador stated, "This is my favorite Vietnamese sweet treat. It's perfect, not too sweet and has a complex flavor profile. There is nothing like it in Norway.
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| The ancient house interior. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The porch of the house. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The journey ends at the Mia Pagoda. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| The whole family listens to the Buddhist monk who explains the significance of the pagoda. Photo: Hoang Nam |
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| Adrian, Hilde's husband, is very enthusiastic about learning Buddhism. Photo: Hoang Nam |
The meaningful trip helped the Ambassador's family better understand and connect with Vietnamese culture.
