This month, Vietnam is taking an exciting step towards welcoming international tourists back to its stunning destinations after an 18-month hiatus. And the best part? No quarantine will be required, as long as certain conditions are met.
A Long-Awaited Decision
Vietnam, known for its captivating beauty and rich culture, halted international tourism in March 2020 to curb the spread of Covid-19. Since then, only foreign experts and repatriated citizens were allowed entry. However, on November 2, 2021, the Government announced a long-awaited program to reopen the country’s top tourist spots, bringing hope to the struggling tourism industry. The selected provinces to reopen first are Kien Giang, Khanh Hoa, Quang Nam, Danang, and Quang Ninh. As long as tourists test negative for SARS CoV-2 and have received both vaccine doses, self-isolation will not be necessary.
Gradual Reopening and Approved Destinations
Vietnam will adopt a phased approach to reopening, starting with package tours in the initial five provinces via charter flights. International trade and services within these areas will resume. After the first week’s stay in Vietnam, visitors will have the opportunity to explore other regions as these five provinces become interconnected. The list of approved destinations and hotels will progressively expand, taking into account the epidemiological situation.
The Top Spots Tourists Can Visit
Five key tourist destinations have been identified: Phu Quoc Island, Danang, Khanh Hoa Province (including Nha Trang city), Quang Nam Province (home to historic Hoi An), and Quang Ninh Province (featuring the magnificent Ha Long Bay). These locations showcase Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Who Can Visit?
To be eligible to visit Vietnam under this program, tourists (both foreigners and Vietnamese living abroad) must meet certain criteria. Adults should either provide proof of complete vaccination or show evidence of recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months. The second vaccine dose must have been administered at least 14 days before arrival, with the initial dose being given no more than 12 months prior. Children under 12 traveling with vaccinated guardians are exempt from showing proof of vaccination. Vietnam recognizes vaccine passports from 72 countries and is considering an additional 80 territories. Travelers must also present a negative RT-PCR/RT-LAMP test taken within 72 hours before departure.
Ensuring Safety and Enjoyment
To ensure the safety of visitors and locals, certain measures are in place. Visitors must have travel or health insurance covering a minimum of $50,000. They must join approved package tours organized by specific travel agencies, which include flights, testing procedures, and stays at registered resorts and hotels. Guests are required to stay with their tour groups and minimize contact with others.
Upon arrival, guests will install the IGOVN contact-tracing app on their phones and undergo a Covid test. If the result is negative, they can proceed with their trip, with self-testing recommended every 2-3 days. Visitors can stay in the country for up to 90 days. For tours longer than 7 days, visitors must undergo testing again on the seventh day before moving on. Those interested in visiting relatives or locations not included in the program will need to register with authorities and adhere to the health and safety regulations of those regions.
Looking Ahead
Vietnam’s gradual reopening signifies a shift from its “zero Covid” strategy to embracing the “new normal.” By carefully welcoming tourists back, Vietnam hopes to fully reopen its doors to the world and showcase its breathtaking destinations once more.
For more information and updates on travel to Vietnam, visit the official Travel Guide website. Plan your trip, explore the beauty of Vietnam, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.