foreign visitors eager to discover hoi an after two years of closures picture 1
Hoi An, a major tourist attraction in Quang Nam province, has suspended all tourism services for almost two years to combat COVID-19. With the outbreak brought under control, Hoi An has been approved by the Prime Minister to receive back foreign tourists. In the photo, local people take to the street welcoming first foreign visitors.
Approximately 50 visitors coming from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, along with Vietnamese nationals returning from Europe are the first to discover Hoi An.
All these visitors have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and they have also tested negative for the virus. They first take pedicabs to tour the Old Quarter then enjoy a special art programme, and visit a local cultural museum and some age-old houses in Hoi An.
Nguyen Van Lanh, deputy head of Hoi An municipal administration, says the welcoming of the first foreign tourists to Vietnam in general and Hoi An in particular gives fresh impetus to the local tourism industry after a hiatus caused by COVID-19.
Stevdsen Stein, a visitor from Norway, enjoys taking pictures at Cau Pagoda. “I am very happy to come and visit Hoi An ancient town. People here are friendly and hospitable,” says Stein.
In the photo, a couple from the United States return to Vietnam after two years of travel restrictions. “After touring Hoi An, we will fly to Hanoi to visit our relatives that we have not met for two years,” they say.
Huw Powell, a visitor from Singapore, says he is amazed by the friendliness and hospitality of the local administration and people. “Cau Pagoda is a sacred place, and I want to learn more about the spiritual life of Vietnamese people,” he says.
After visiting Cau Pagoda, the group of tourists drop into Tan Ky age-old house, exploring its history and local life.
They are eager to explore lucky coins that are said to bring them good luck if they own one.
Part of the package tour is a special art programme that introduces visitors to traditional dances and melodies.
Hoi An has devised plans to ensure the reopening of tours will be undertaken in a safe manner.