Samantha GilstrapReporter, Life News Today NINH BINH, Vietnam — A couple of hours south of Hanoi, traffic and noise give way to winding rivers, limestone cliffs and expansive rice fields. Ninh Binh, often called the “Inland Ha Long Bay,” draws visitors for its waterways, where boat tours move through caves, temples and agricultural landscapes. The region has become one of northern Vietnam’s most visited destinations in recent years, with tourism infrastructure expanding alongside efforts to...

By Samantha Gilstrap Reporter, Life News Today HÀ GIANG, Vietnam - It’s been called the most dangerous road in Vietnam. It’s also one of the most unforgettable. Winding along Vietnam’s northern frontier near China, the Hà Giang Loop stretches roughly 218 miles through jagged limestone peaks, deep valleys and remote villages that feel worlds away from the country’s busy cities. For many travelers, especially backpackers, it’s more than just a scenic drive. It’s a rite of passage. What...

By Samantha Gilstrap Reporter, Life News Today World Animal Protection reported in a 2026 assessment of Thailand’s captive elephant tourism venues that nearly seven in 10 elephants used in tourism in Thailand were still living in poor or unacceptable conditions, even as more operations marketed themselves as “ethical,” “no riding,” and “rescues.” The group also reported that observation-only experiences have increased over time, though they remained a smaller share of the market compared with...