Because Tet holiday is the most important occasion of a year in Vietnam, just like Christmas and Easter in Europe, most of companies and shops are closed to enjoy holidays. Therefore, travellers who want to travel to Hoi An during this time need to know the following notes:
1. Apply for a visa as soon as possible
Like other governmental agencies, the Vietnam Immigration Department would be closed during the holiday. Therefore, you should make your travel plan at least 1 month in advance and apply for the visa as soon as possible to avoid unexpected problems at the last minute.
Note: the immigration officers at the airport are still working these days to give you visa stamp for Vietnam visa on arrival.
2. Hotel reservation in advance
Tet holidays means that most of the locals head to the South for holiday and Hoi an is really a good place to relax. However, it doesn’t mean that you will easily get a room in Hoi An’s hotel, particularly the high-grade ones because many foreign visitors like to experience a traditional Tet in Vietnam. Thus, it is better to book in advance to get cheap price and good room.
Transport is also a big matter. Reserve your airfare and train tickets as soon as you can.
3. Shopping
In recent years, there have been more and more shops opened on Tet holiday. Yet, those who desire to get new clothes made by Hoi An’s tailors should not be happy too much because most of the tailors do not work on this occasion. The only exception is A Dong Silk at 40 Le Loi Street, Hoi An. Tel (84) 0510 3863 170. This tailor is opened all year except 1 day before Tet and the first day of Tet holidays.
4. High prices
Don’t expect food, clothes, services…. to be as cheap as normal days. On Tet holiday, everything will be surcharged. Furthermore, many restaurants may not offer full menu either.
5. Be careful when buying or bargaining
Vietnamese merchants strongly believe that a good business on the first days of Tet holiday will bring good luck and prosperity to their business for the year. Thus, try not to bargain so much and you are advised to buy at least one thing in their shops, even the cheapest item. In order not to put yourself in an awkward situation, look at the item carefully from outside before entering the shop.