April 30th marks the day that the war in Vietnam ended, closing the days when Northern Vietnam and Southern Vietnam were divided. Now a public holiday, people will be either resting or celebrating with family and friends, that means the streets of places like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Danang will be a little less busy than usual.

Image: Francoise de Mulder

Marked by the iconic image of the Vietnamese tank rolling through the gate at the Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City, April 30th, 1975, is the day the war ended. It is a day that is well celebrated in Vietnam. Over a week prior to the event, streets are stunningly decorated with colorful banners, flags and neon lights. In some cultural centers, stages are prepared for celebrations. Residents also proudly hang Vietnamese flags outside of their homes, even the tiniest alleys in the city are lighted up in red during these days.

Image: Mai Lan

For tourists on their Vietnam tour, the two-day holiday (thanks to Labor Day on May 1st) is an opportunity to witness big cities at one of their quietest, without being disturbed by crowds in famous tourist attractions and hustling vehicles. Other destinations however, will be jam-packed with locals holidaying with their families during the 4-day weekend this year. Places that are likely to be crowded are historical sites, such as the Independent Palace in HCMC or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi. Although banks and offices are closed during this time, most shops, restaurants and other commercial places are open.

Like almost everyone else in Vietnam, Footprint Vietnam Travel is off for the weekend and will be back on Wednesday (May 3rd, 2017). It is an opportunity for our team to spend some quality time with our families. However, we are contactable via  emails for your inquiries.