Where heritage meets new light
More than a feast for the senses, a 3D mapping performance at the Temple of Literature offered visitors a new way to experience Việt Nam’s long-standing tradition of learning and nurturing talent.
SB19's Stell wants to keep performing past 50, turns to fitness for longevity
SB19's Stell is passionate about his artistry, and he shows no signs of stopping.
PH earns first Two Michelin Keys as nine hotels make 2026 list
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has earned its first-ever Two Michelin Key hotel distinctions, with nine properties recognized in the 2026 Michelin Guide hotel selection. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island in Palawan and Raffles Makati received Two Michelin Keys, marking them as the first Philippine properties to reach the distinction, which the Michelin Guide describes as an “exceptional stay.” Raffles Makati was promoted from One Key, while El Nido Resorts Lagen Island entered the selection with Two Keys. The recognition brings the country's total to nine Michelin Key hotels for 2026, up from five properties in the previous selection. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island was recognized for its location within a forested cove surrounded by limestone cliffs, as well as its use of Filipino materials and craftsmanship, and its environmental practices. Raffles Makati was cited for its all-suite accommodations, private butler service and intimate residential atmosphere. Four properties also received their first One Michelin Key: Nustar Hotel Cebu in Cebu City, El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island in Palawan, Hotel Okura Manila at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, and Manami Resort in Sipalay City, Negros Occidental. Three hotels retained their One Michelin Key distinctions from the previous selection: Nay Palad Hideaway in Siargao, Fairmont Makati, and Amanpulo in Palawan. Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay welcomed the recognition in a statement saying, “This recognition reflects the continued growth of Philippine hospitality and the dedication of our tourism stakeholders in creating exceptional experiences for travelers from around the world.” She also said the recognition could help strengthen the country's positioning as a destination offering different types of high-end accommodations, from island resorts to hotels in urban centers. “Beyond the recognition itself, we see this as an opportunity to further position the Philippines as a destination where travelers can find exceptional stays, from our island resorts to our urban hotels, all anchored on the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” she added. The Michelin Key is the hotel counterpart of the Michelin Star for restaurants. Hotels are assessed by Michelin Guide inspectors using five criteria: architecture and interior design; quality and consistency of service; overall personality and character; value for the price; and the property's contribution to its neighborhood or setting. A One Michelin Key represents a “very special stay,” while Two Michelin Keys indicate an “exceptional stay.” Three Michelin Keys, the highest distinction, represent an “extraordinary stay.” The 2026 global selection includes 2,832 Michelin Key hotels across 79 countries, with 657 receiving Two Keys and 2,020 receiving One Key. For the Philippines, Angara-Mathay said the growing number of recognized properties also contributes to strengthening the country's tourism brand. “Every recognition earned by our tourism stakeholders contributes to a stronger Philippine tourism brand. As we continue to welcome more travelers, we will likewise continue working with our partners in the industry to further elevate the quality of Philippine hospitality,” the Tourism chief added.
Family exhibition celebrates creativity across generations
Opening at the Việt Nam Fine Arts Association’s Exhibition House on September 27, the exhibition marks the first joint showcase by poet Đinh Hoàng Anh, painter Thái Tĩnh and emerging 17-year-old artist Nguyễn Thiên Nam.
"Beauty ambassadors" promote image of Việt Nam to the world
The growing number of international beauty pageants hosted by Việt Nam shows that beauty contests are evolving beyond entertainment; they are increasingly serving as platforms for cultural diplomacy, offering opportunities to showcase Việt Nam’s identity, heritage, people and tourism to the international community.
Yasmien Kurdi reveals she developed hives due to stress following daughter's alleged bullying
Yasmien Kurdi revealed that she developed hives due to the stress of dealing with the trauma suffered by her daughter Ayesha, who was allegedly bullied in school two years ago.
World heritage brand identity highlights core values of intellect and harmony
The UNESCO-recognised World Cultural Heritage site of Yên Tử-Vĩnh Nghiêm-Côn Sơn-Kiếp Bạc brand identity will be announced at the Côn Sơn-Kiếp Bạc Autumn Festival 2026, which will take place from September 26 to October 4.
'Forgotten Island' is as fun and chaotic as any Filipino family reunion party
Here it becomes important to remember that "Forgotten Island" is created by members of the Filipino diaspora. And as such, "Forgotten Island" isn't just Filipino culture as we know it. It's Filipino culture filtered and told through the lens of the diaspora.
Who is Lakambini Chiu? What to know about Kim Chiu's sister
Lakambini “Lakam” Chiu, Kim Chiu's sister, was arrested Sunday afternoon in Mandaluyong City on an arrest warrant for 124 counts of Qualified Theft.
Celeste Legaspi recalls recommending Lea Salonga to audition for 'Miss Saigon'
Celeste Legaspi and Lea Salonga shared a heartwarming moment at the final show of "The Notebook: The Musical," with Celeste recalling how she had first recognized Lea's exceptional talent long ago.
60 artists set to perform at 14-hour music festival in HCM City
Nearly 60 Vietnamese and international artists will perform at a 14-hour music festival in HCM City next month, bringing together pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop, indie and alternative music.
Katê Festival promotes heritage of Chăm people in Lâm Đồng
The Lâm Đồng Province's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has announced it will host the Katê Festival, the largest traditional festival of the Chăm people, in October.
Việt Nam, China border tourism seeks to tap cultural potential
Border tourism cooperation has emerged as a highlight and an important bridge for promoting people-to-people exchanges between the two countries in recent years.
Nearly 600 booths to feature at Hà Nội Giftshow 2026
The Hà Nội International Gift and Handicraft Fair 2026 (Hà Nội Giftshow 2026) is scheduled to take place from October 8-11, bringing together about 600 standard booths showcasing handicraft and gift products from Vietnamese and international businesses and producers.
Vietnamese culture adds colour to Maintenon/Pierres Japan Festival
The fourth edition of the Maintenon/Pierres Japan Festival featured Việt Nam as its honoured guest country, alongside Japan.
HCM City connects heritage with cinema
HCM City is seeking to turn its rich heritage and cultural resources into cinematic stories, using its new status as a UNESCO Creative City of Film to strengthen links between heritage preservation, filmmaking, tourism and the wider creative economy.
Metabolic syndrome explained in simple terms
As its name suggests, metabolic syndrome is not a single disease but a cluster of related health problems that tend to occur together and determine a significant increase in cardiovascular risk, making patients more prone to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, liver and kidney disease.
Alex Gonzaga shares sweet moment between son Isaac and sister Toni
For years, Toni Gonzaga watched her younger sister, Alex Gonzaga, bond with her kids, Seve and Polly. Now, Alex is getting to see Toni share that same sweet moment with her own son, Isaac.
Mê Linh brings local products into digital space
Digital transformation is gradually changing how residents in Mê Linh Commune, Hà Nội, promote and sell local products, giving traditional craft products new ways to reach consumers and helping local businesses expand their markets.
Chinamaxxing for everyday life
From subscribing to the moon’s phases to eating mindfully, the Chinese way of life has plenty to teach Filipinos
7 style lessons from the best looks at the 2026 Emmys
From Ayo Edebiri’s unexpected color pairing to Julia Garner’s head-to-toe silver, the strongest looks of the night came with ideas worth borrowing
The beauty of Negros’ bounty
When given new life, heirloom recipes at Butlak: The 40th Negros Trade Fair can be enjoyed in many different ways
Carly Rae Jepsen drops new album 'Day and Night'
Carly Rae Jepsen dropped "Day and Night," a the double album is composed of two discs "Day" and "Night" with 12 songs each.
SB19's Stell ventures into gym business
Stell of SB19 is one of the four co-founders of Driven, a new gym that just opened on E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Quezon City on Sunday.
Kendra Kramer becomes Most Outstanding Swimmer at DLSZ Invitational Swim Meet
Kendra Kramer has achieved one of her goals in a swimming competition: taking home the Most Outstanding Swimmer award.
The art of hand embellishment
From tiny beads and crystals, Tăng Mỹ Linh creates delicate brooches that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary creativity. For her and her students, hand embellishment is not only an intricate craft, but also a way to preserve tradition and connect with a younger generation.
30-year-old artist with autism showcases painting talent in art exhibit
A 30-year-old artist with autism is showcasing her talent in painting through her third art exhibit, "Written in the Stars."
The Michelin Guide awards PH with 9 Key Hotels for 2026
The Michelin Guide has revealed nine properties in the Philippines that have been awarded its prestigious Key Hotel distinction for 2026.
7 local spaces cultivating a new creative generation
Across Metro Manila, galleries, studios, grants, cultural spaces, and creative communities are reshaping how young artists and designers learn, make, and find their place in a rapidly changing world.
The slow burn of Nour Hooshmand
Big or small roles, Nour Hooshmand has become a familiar face in the indie scene. Don’t be surprised if she pops up onscreen the next time you’re at the cinema.
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