The East Sea situation
The demonstrations which took place in certain cities in Vietnam after China deployed its oil rig in Vietnam’s waters, has recently influenced tourism, not only travelers from China but also from other countries as they are afraid of the chaotic situation in the country.
Only in Binh Duong and Vung Ang far away from tourist destinations, violent demonstrations happened in the local areas and industry zones where there are many Chinese workers. However many tourists canceled tours to Saigon as the demonstration happened in an area nearby – Binh Duong.
There are some breaking news regarding to the outbreak demonstration but it only happens in the industrious areas & at the factories & it’s very far away from big cities & the livelihood zones. A number of restaurants and hotels have refused to serve Chinese visitors which cause different disputes in the country.
The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) has asked tourist service providers not to engage in acts of discrimination against Chinese visitors. VNAT head Nguyen Van Tuan says “The security and safety of visitors at this time must be better guaranteed to not allow the agitators to take advantage of this situation,”. He has asked local agencies to set up working groups to monitor the situation. The VNAT is making plans against risks and adverse impacts on tourism.
Currently all tourism activities still take place as usually, however visitors are taken care more personalized. It’s the time that tour operators and agencies have to work more professional to create the confidence for them to travel around.