Rise in island tourism prompted by East Sea dispute

Amid rising tensions in the East Sea, many Vietnamese have been choosing to spend their vacations at beaches and islands to express their love for the country.

According to several travel agencies, the latest holiday, April 30, saw the number of visitors to Ly Son Island sharply increase. The Hoang Sa-Bac Hai fleet museum, the Hang Pagoda and the flag tower, a symbol for Vietnam’s territory, were crowded with visitors.

One visitor in Hanoi said, “This generation is familiar with peacetime and have no memory of bombs or wars. But, standing under this flag brings up deep love for my country. After taking a look at the exhibits of the museum, I am more proud than ever of the generations before us that have ensured Vietnam’s independence. My friends and I are keenly aware of the need to protect our sea and islands.”

Vietnam has 3,260 km of beaches and over 2,700 islands. Both local authorities and travel companies are stepping up promotion and planning new tours to such destinations.

Ta Minh Hien, deputy head of Phuong Dong Ngay Nay Tourism Company, said the central region has been receiving more visitors this year, most of them coming to visit Ly Son and Cham islands. “There are also many return visitors, boosting support services such as hotels, restaurants and diving companies,” he said.

Nguyen Cong Hoan, deputy head of Hanoi Redtours Company said, “Not only can tourists visit beautiful beaches, they can also visit relics related to Vietnam’s rich and proud history. I’m confident that these tours will attract many visitors this summer.”

A number of travel agencies have widened their scope to offer more tours to offshore beaches such as Hoang Sa and Truong Sa (Paracel and Spratly) islands. Two years ago, the UNESCO Hanoi Travel Club proposed that a survey be conducted of these areas to facilitate more favourable conditions for tours to Hoang Sa and Truong Sa islands.

Source: Dan Tri News