UPDATE: Northern Vietnam’s Tourism Bounces Back Post-Storm

by Footprint Team (22 November, 2024) - Events Blog

After nearly a month of efforts to repair damages caused by Storm No. 3 (Storm Yagi), famous tourist destinations in Northern Vietnam gradually welcomed back visitors.

Quang Ninh has quickly bounced back and is slowly restoring tourism activities. The Halong Bay Management Board reported that from September 10 to 17, the destination received nearly 30,000 visitors, with almost 90% being foreign tourists. This highlights that Halong Bay has become an unmissable stop for international travelers exploring Vietnam.

Storm No. 3 (Storm Yagi)

International visitors to Halong Bay typically choose to visit sites such as Thien Cung Cave, Fighting Cock Island, Dau Go Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave, and Ba Hang Cave.

International visitors to Halong Bay

Destinations like Tuan Chau Island, Bai Chay, and Sun World Halong are also actively completing repairs and upgrading facilities, with plans to reopen in mid-October. Most foreign visitors come from South Korea, and Europe, as autumn is a peak season for foreign tourists in Quang Ninh.

Kayaking on Ha Long Bay

Opening for Tourism with Absolute Safety

Similarly, Sa Pa (Lao Cai province), a well-known tourist destination in Northern Vietnam, quickly regained momentum after Storm No. 3 due to close coordination among the community, businesses, and local authorities.

After nearly a month of mobilizing all resources, the infrastructure and transportation systems affected in Sa Pa have been promptly repaired, ensuring smooth and safe main roads. Local businesses and accommodation providers have also taken this time to upgrade destinations, improve landscapes, and enhance visitor service quality.

Leading the reopening on September 13, the Sun World Fansipan Legend tourist area welcomed its first guests to visit and experience the Cloud Village, scenic cable car rides, and the Fansipan flagpole spiritual complex. On its first day of reopening, the resort welcomed hundreds of visitors, including many international tourists from Southeast Asia, India, and Europe.

Positive Feedback from Visitors

Many tourists, both domestic and international, have expressed surprise and satisfaction with Sa Pa’s impressive recovery speed. Many noted they not only enjoyed the stunning natural landscapes of Northwest Vietnam but also appreciated the attentive care and improved service quality.

Besides Sun World Fansipan Legend, other destinations named Silver Waterfall, Ta Phin Stone Garden, Green Valley, Dream Rose Garden, Golden Stream – Love Waterfall, Dragon Jaw, and Cat Cat Village reopened sequentially from September 14, 2024.

The stunning natural landscapes of Northwest Vietnam

In Yen Bai, the weather has returned to sunny conditions. The terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai and Tu Le are beginning to turn golden. Roads to the surrounding areas, including Khau Pha Pass, are accessible, although some routes from lower regions with landslides are being repaired by authorities.

The terraced fields are beginning to turn golden

With an optimistic spirit and high determination, Sa Pa, Halong, and many other famous tourist spots in the North are striving to overcome challenges after the storm, ready to welcome back visitors with high-quality services and a safe tourism environment, reaffirming their status as leading destinations in Northern Vietnam.

Ethnic girls

We, as local DMC, are closely monitoring weather conditions in these areas to ensure visitor safety during tours. “We are also proactively coordinating with various service providers, including airlines, hotels, restaurants, and attractions, to guarantee the absolute safety of every tourist,” stated Mr. Son Dang, Managing Director of Footprint Travel, ensuring smooth travel experiences for all.

In addition to the well-known tourist spots, many remote villages have suffered severe damage and are slowly recovering from the aftermath of the Yagi Storm. These areas typically have less developed tourism products, so the impact on our tour offerings has been minimal. However, if you would like to contribute to their recovery efforts, please feel free to reach out to us for more information on how you can help.

Sources: Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, The Halong Bay Management Board, VNExpress Travel