Vietnam Insider

According to Minister Dao Hong Lan, the situation of mixing drugs into e-cigarettes is becoming increasingly serious, with 73 people being prosecuted for this behavior in the first three months of 2024.

On the afternoon of November 11, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan took the stage to answer questions about issues related to the sector. As the first person to question the head of the health sector, delegate Pham Thi Kieu (Dak Nong General Hospital) asked Minister Dao Hong Lan to state her views on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, their harmful effects on the health of young people, and to provide solutions.

The content about the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes and tightening the management of this product was also a concern of many other delegates throughout the question and answer session.

Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan said that recently, the rate of use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products has been increasing rapidly, posing many potential risks to health and life, especially among young people. Through investigations in 34 provinces and cities, the rate of e-cigarette use among adults increased 18 times, to 3.6% in 2020, with the highest concentration in the 15-24 age group.

The Ministry of Health has assigned a specialized unit to synthesize research content and evaluate the use of heated and electronic tobacco products on the effects on the heart, liver, lungs, and especially psychosis. In 2023, there will be 1,234 people treated for e-cigarette-related diseases. “In the context of about 40,000 people/year suffering from diseases caused by regular cigarettes, now e-cigarettes have a huge impact,” said Ms. Lan.

According to Ms. Lan, the main reason why e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products are still widespread in the market is because there are no legal regulations allowing the sale of these products. However, in order to make a profit, many companies have taken advantage of sophisticated marketing methods and eye-catching product designs to attract consumers. In addition, the smuggling of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products has also contributed to this situation, causing many difficulties in management.

Holding up some electronic cigarette products with eye-catching designs and decorations, she said the appearance of electronic cigarettes is very eye-catching to children. “Can anyone imagine this is an electronic cigarette? These products on the market are very attractive to young people,” she emphasized.

The Minister of Health proposed that the National Assembly have stronger solutions to address the issue of e-cigarette sales to young people. “The Ministry of Health hopes to have a resolution from the National Assembly on banning e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products before the Law on Tobacco Harm Prevention Amendment is submitted to the National Assembly in the near future,” Ms. Lan suggested.

The female minister said that e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products are new generation products, operating by heating a solution of substances containing nicotine or flavoring, usually dissolved into propylene glycol or glycerine. At least 60 chemical compounds have been found in e-cigarette solutions (also known as essential oils) and many other compounds are present in the gas/smoke produced. This type does not contain tobacco ingredients but only uses flavorings and chemicals, so it is not considered tobacco according to the definition of the Law on Prevention of Tobacco Harms and is not subject to regulation.

Investigation results from the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health show that this type of cigarette is addictive due to the nicotine it contains; causes cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, acute lung damage, poisoning and affects mental health.

Vietnam has recorded a rapid increase in the use of new tobacco products, mainly e-cigarettes and heated cigarettes. In the 13-15 age group, the rate doubled from 3.5% in 2022 to 8% in 2023. In 2023, more than 1,200 people were hospitalized due to the use of e-cigarettes and heated cigarettes, including many minors. The debate over whether to “ban or regulate” e-cigarettes has been raised many times in recent times, but many ministries and sectors have proposed an absolute ban to protect public health.

Also contributing to this content, Standing member of the Committee for Culture and Education Nguyen Thi Mai Thoa agreed with the Ministry of Health on announcing the harmful effects of e-cigarettes and recommending a ban on this product, but she asked the Minister to provide more information on the development of e-cigarette addiction cessation programs in localities.

Minister Dao Hong Lan said the Government has established a Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund with 9 task groups, including organizing a network of smoking cessation to support people. To date, the Ministry of Health has organized 24 smoking cessation centers which are hospitals under the Ministry. Among them, many specialized hospitals have a large number of patients such as Bach Mai, Lung, Hanoi Oncology, Traditional Medicine…

In recent times, Bach Mai Hospital has organized a drug addiction treatment center, providing technical support to hospitals nationwide to help people quit smoking. The Ministry has set up hotlines to support people in getting direct advice on quitting smoking. These models have been implemented effectively.

Delegate Le Hoang Anh cited a report from the Ministry of Public Security stating that the situation of drug-laced e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products is increasing rapidly and is difficult to control. Therefore, the Ministry of Public Security wants to ban the import, distribution and advertising of this type of tobacco, but the Ministry of Industry and Trade wants to conduct further pilot studies for better management.

“Many voters reflect that many interest groups of the tobacco industry are actively campaigning to maintain testing of these types of cigarettes. According to the Minister, have these interest groups successfully lobbied in Vietnam? What is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health to advise that the Government has not yet had a clear stance on this issue?”, the delegate of Gia Lai asked and at the same time forwarded this question to the Minister of Industry and Trade.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien agreed with the concerns of delegates regarding e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. He emphasized that while traditional cigarettes have clear regulations, new generation tobacco products lack a specific legal framework, leading to lax management.

Faced with this situation, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has proactively proposed to develop a pilot project to manage these products. However, due to receiving many conflicting opinions, especially the opposition from the Ministry of Health about the harmful effects of these products on health, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has agreed with the Ministry of Health that there should be a strict legal regulation to completely ban electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Mr. Dien said that the Ministry of Industry and Trade will continue to direct market management forces to strengthen inspection and handle illegal production and trading of these products. At the same time, the Ministry will coordinate with other competent agencies to build a complete legal framework to effectively prevent smuggling and consumption of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Functional food and cosmetic business still has loopholes

Delegate Dang Thi Bao Trinh (Deputy Secretary of the Quang Nam Provincial Youth Union) said that with the mindset that functional foods are nutritious and have no side effects, many people do not hesitate to spend money on these products. “I request the Minister of Health to clarify the responsibility for state management and solutions to control the purchase and sale of these products,” the female delegate questioned.

This is also the concern of delegates Duong Tan Quan and Nguyen Thi Xuan.

In response, the Minister of Health said that the fields of drugs, cosmetics, and functional foods are managed according to the Law on Pharmacy, Circular 43 of the Ministry of Health, the Law on Food Safety… These regulations are sufficient to manage drugs, cosmetics, and functional foods, but many people still circumvent the law, exaggerate their effects, and show signs of defrauding consumers.

Many of these products are sold through hand-carried goods and livestreams on social networks. According to her, the business of functional foods and cosmetics must comply with regulations on product registration, declaration and labeling, but many products are currently being sold on the market without ensuring these requirements. Product advertising must have a certificate of advertising content and online sales of goods of unknown origin are illegal.

The Minister of Health assessed that the legal system on the management of functional foods has been relatively complete, creating favorable conditions for the development of this industry. In fact, Vietnamese functional food products have been exported to more than 30 countries, affirming their quality and reputation.

However, the buying and selling of hand-carried goods still occurs in reality. The reasons are high profits, consumers’ preference for foreign goods and difficulties in controlling online sales. To solve this problem, the Ministry of Health will coordinate with relevant ministries and branches to strengthen control of online sales activities, promote communication to raise consumer awareness and establish a rapid response team to handle violations.

The Ministry of Health has strengthened management and reviewed policy content that does not meet practical requirements for amendment, such as the Food Safety Law which is being amended and will be submitted to the National Assembly in 2025. The Ministry of Health has upgraded the circular on cosmetics management into a decree, which is being sent to the Ministry of Justice for appraisal. The Ministry also coordinates with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Information and Communications, and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to review violations in product advertising.

In addition, the Ministry of Health has published a list of businesses licensed to produce functional foods, helping consumers easily choose reputable products. At the same time, the Ministry has coordinated with relevant agencies to strengthen inspection and strictly handle violations of the law in this field, especially in the field of advertising.

Delegate Khang Thi Mao asked: “Is it right or wrong for many doctors to wear white coats to advertise medicines and functional foods?”

Minister Dao Hong Lan emphasized that current laws have clear regulations on the use of images of doctors and medical practitioners in advertising. Specifically, the Advertising Law and its implementing documents strictly prohibit this behavior. In addition, Article 197 of the Penal Code also clearly stipulates the forms of handling of violations of the law in the field of advertising.

Ms. Lan also said that the Ministry of Health has sent documents to medical facilities to remind and request that medical staff absolutely do not participate in advertising activities for functional foods, in order to ensure the seriousness and reputation of the medical sector.

Concerns about drug shortages

Delegate Hoang Thi Thanh Thuy (Tay Ninh) questioned the delay in insurance payments, which is causing difficulties for hospitals and drug bidding. “Hospitals are facing difficulties and are in debt. How will the Minister resolve this problem?”, Ms. Thuy questioned.

Minister Dao Hong Lan said that this content was directed by the Government, the Ministry of Health has resolved over 11,000 billion VND of outstanding debt, is being allocated to medical facilities, is a resource for hospitals to buy equipment, bid for drugs. “Due to insurance arrears, hospitals have not been able to buy drugs in the past,” said Ms. Dao Hong Lan.

Delegate Pham Van Hoa (Dong Thap) pointed out the current situation of private medical facilities, clinics, doctors with foreign elements… hanging signs to treat many types of diseases, many of whom do not have degrees or practice licenses. “I request the Minister of Health to clarify the reasons for licensing these facilities, and at the same time provide solutions to overcome this,” said Mr. Hoa.

The Minister of Health pointed out that although the 2023 Law on Medical Examination and Treatment has strict regulations on medical practice, there are still many violations and disguised activities. According to regulations, the Ministry of Health licenses medical facilities under its management, private hospitals are licensed by the Department of Health, and other medical facilities are under the management of local authorities.

To strengthen management, the Minister suggested that localities need to regularly inspect and monitor the operations of medical facilities in the area, especially private clinics. However, she also admitted that the local medical practice management force is still weak, causing difficulties in performing tasks.

“We hope that localities will increase investment in the medical practice management force to ensure strict implementation of the law, contributing to improving the quality of medical examination and treatment services and protecting people’s health,” said Ms. Lan.

Delegate Nguyen Thi Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of the Judiciary Committee, said that hospital pharmacies are still facing difficulties in bidding for drugs. In fact, there are still times when people have finished their medical examinations but cannot buy drugs. “Where does this problem come from and when will the Minister resolve it?”, Ms. Thuy asked.

Ms. Dao Hong Lan said that recently, agencies have had many solutions to solve the problem of drug shortage, especially the provisions in the 2023 Bidding Law. Hospital pharmacies are managed by hospitals, which organize the purchase of retail drugs to sell to people when needed, without having to use the budget. According to the 2023 Bidding Law, hospital pharmacies must also bid, so in reality, they face difficulties. Therefore, the revised Pharmacy Law is seeking the National Assembly’s opinion to hand over the right to proactively purchase to hospital pharmacies of medical facilities.

Chairing the question-and-answer session, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man said that according to the program, on the morning of November 12, the National Assembly will continue the question-and-answer session. Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan will answer questions from 8 National Assembly deputies who questioned her on the afternoon of November 11.

Source: vnexpress.net (Son Ha – Doan Loan – Viet Tuan)

Vietnamese people share a love of music, TV shows, films, sports, and travel, creating a unique intersection of interests that is driving a key trend in outbound tourism for 2025.

HO CHI MINH CITY, 06 NOVEMBER 2024 – Vietnamese travelers are seeking experiences tied to their pop culture moments, whether it’s attending a music concert, visiting iconic settings from beloved TV dramas, or witnessing a thrilling football match in person, according to new study by Vero.

The Southeast Asian communications consultancy released a white paper titled “Chasing Pop Culture Dreams: How Vietnamese Travelers are Redefining Their Bucket Lists,” revealing a new key driver in Vietnamese outbound travel: pop culture tourism.

As Vietnamese travelers begin planning their travels for the holidays and the Lunar New Year celebration, brands in the travel and hospitality industry can expect that outbound tourism will remain strong in 2025. 

Drawing on survey data from over 23,000 Vietnamese respondents across multiple generations during the first half of 2024, as well as social listening analysis, the study found that the middle-class is driving demand for travel. With an increasing disposable income and growing aspirations to explore new destinations, trips abroad are high on the agenda, especially to places that offer immersive cultural experiences and connections to popular media.

Over half of the Vietnamese travelers say that they have made bookings and trip purchases, while 45.9% plan on following suit within the next few months. Some of the most discussed travel destinations for Vietnamese travelers are Thailand, China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

These trips are likely influenced by social media, as people use these platforms as their main source of information (Facebook 58.2% and Instagram 56.3%) and inspiration (Facebook 61.5% and Instagram 59.6%). Meanwhile, TikTok is now considered as a modern-day social travel guide, with 55.6% of respondents utilizing the platform to research destinations, vacations, and travel options. As these spaces also cater to fandoms of all shapes and sizes, they have also become key sites for planning itineraries around one’s beloved media and pop culture phenomena—contributing to the rise of different types of pop culture-inspired travel.

• Concert tourism refers to how travelers are planning trips around musical events, as exemplified by the pilgrimage made by Vietnamese Swifties to Singapore earlier this year for the Eras Tour, as well as the many Vietnamese travelers making their way to South Korea to witness their favorite K-Pop acts. 
• Set jetting is a way for travelers to turn fictional worlds into reality by visiting the shooting locations of their favorite TV shows and movies. Case in point: The popularity of the Chinese TV series Meet Yourself has led to a surge in travel interest in its setting of Yunnan, China, among Vietnamese tourists. The popularity of Emily in Paris among Vietnamese audience has also resulted in the surge of search interest for trips to the French capital.
• Spectator travel is when tourists plan trips to witness sports history unfold, particularly with sports like football and events like the SEA Games, London’s Premier League, and the Olympics. Although this specific type of pop culture travel has not yet fully gained traction, it is poised for growth as more Vietnamese sports fans search destinations tied to major sporting events.

“The demand for real-life experiences born from the desire to live out pop culture dreams is inspiring people in Vietnam to travel, explore destinations, and connect with a cultural phenomenon that resonates with them. They crave exclusivity but also experiences that are worth sharing with their fandom communities, blending personal fulfillment with social engagement,” shares Pham Hoai Anh, Vero’s Head of Client Solutions. 

Tourism organizations and hospitality brands eager to capture the attention of this hyper-engaged segment must curate unique and culturally attuned offerings that reflect these passions and create opportunities for memorable, socially amplified moments.

• Recognizing the rise of fandom culture is essential. Brands should design experiences tailored for superfans, engage with fan communities, and collaborate with influencer-fans who authentically connect with target audiences.
• Highlight the once-in-a-lifetime appeal of your destination. Consider creating exclusive collaborations for travel memorabilia, special film or TV-inspired menus, or themed travel packages centered around musical events or sporting leagues.
• Meet travelers’ craving for immersive and shareable social experiences. Turn customers into travel brand advocates by leveraging user-generated content to generate buzz and adopt a long-term approach to events that encourage repeat visits.

“Vietnamese fans are always ready to grab every opportunity to be closer to their favorite artists or visit the settings of their beloved shows. Given the limited number of foreign artists performing in the country, this insatiable hunger for entertainment and cultural connection intensifies, making these experiences feel like once-in-a-lifetime moments. By acknowledging and fostering this enthusiasm, brands and travel organizers can create memorable experiences that fans will cherish forever,” Nguyen Thi Trinh, Vero’s Vice President for Brand Influence, explains.

To read the full study, visit the Vero website.

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ABOUT VERO

Vero is an award-winning strategic communications consultancy, advising some of Southeast Asia’s leading brands, corporations, and non-profit organizations.

B Corp certified across all its offices, and a signatory of the Clean Creative pledge since 2022, Vero adopts a forward-thinking approach to public relations and marketing, striving to enact meaningful change for clients and society at large.

Vero’s team of over 260 PR, social, digital, influence, and creative professionals in Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, and its partnership in Myanmar, brings unique perspectives to earned media, prioritizing digital technology, creative storytelling, and stakeholder engagement in championing stories of progress. This includes the newest units: Vero IQ, which digs deep for data-driven insights, Vero Xperience, dedicated to redefining brand events in the region and Vero Advocacy, a government-engagement focused strategic advisory.

Listed among the Global Top 250 Agency Ranking by PRovoke Media and winner of numerous Southeast Asia Consultancy of the Year awards, Vero designs integrated marketing and communications strategies that resonate within and across this vibrant region’s digital ecosystems and fast-growing economies.

Visit https://vero-asean.com/

Forget the plus-one! Solo travel is trending in 2024, with a remarkable 75%* of Vietnamese travelers planning to travel alone in 2024. In honor of the Single Day – 11.11, Booking.com suggests a list of destinations in Vietnam for every type of solo explorer, from the seasoned adventurers to the curious first-timers.

From exploring bustling cityscapes to immersing in the calm of nature, Vietnam offers diverse destinations for solo travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. Here’s a glimpse into some of the must-visit locations:

Hanoi – For the Cultural Explorer

Hanoi, the capital city, is a paradise for culture seekers. Solo travelers can explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, marvel at the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, and lose yourself in the beauty of ancient pagodas and stunning French-colonial architecture. Relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee by the lake or join a walking tour to mingle with other travelers and delve deeper into the city’s rich history and food culture.

 

Hue – For the Wellness Wanderer

For solo travelers seeking a healing escape, Hue offers a serene environment steeped in tranquility and peace. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is home to tranquil gardens, ancient temples, and the peaceful Perfume River, making it an ideal destination for rejuvenation. Visitors can explore the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda, wander through the lush grounds of the Imperial City, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the river. With its rich heritage and calming atmosphere, Hue provides the perfect backdrop for reflection, mindfulness, and a much-needed reboot from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

 

Hoi An – For the History Enthusiast

A World Heritage site, Hoi An is a living museum where the world of a traveler on their own will be transported to another time, where ancient streets and lantern-filled nights await you. Hoi An is famous for its Age-old architecture, which would be an ideal destination for history and cultural lovers. Solo travelers can dive into a cooking class, learn the art of lantern-making, or be mesmerized at Hoi An Memories, Vietnam’s largest outdoor art show, where 500 performers, clad in traditional ao dai uniforms and backed by modern staging, bring to life the history of Hoi An from 400 years ago.

 

Ninh Binh – For the Adventure Seeker

Ninh Binh, often dubbed the “Halong Bay on Land,” is a paradise for adventure-seeking solo travelers. This stunning region boasts dramatic limestone karsts, winding rivers, and ancient caves, offering a plethora of thrilling activities. Embark on a serene boat ride through the mystical Trang An grottoes, hike up to Hang Mua Peak for panoramic views, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Cuc Phuong National Park. Whether you’re kayaking through tranquil waterways or trekking through lush forests, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable adventure.

 

Phan Thiet – For the Beach Lover

Perfect for those seeking a laid-back coastal retreat, Phan Thiet offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. Unwind on pristine beaches with turquoise waters, explore the iconic red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne, or take a dip in the mystical Fairy Stream. Phan Thiet provides the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal destination for solo travelers seeking tranquility just a few hours from the bustling city.

 

Booking.com empowers solo travelers to create unforgettable travel experiences. With a wide range of accommodation options, attractions, and a seamless booking process, Booking.com ensures a smooth and hassle-free adventure from start to finish. So ditch the wingman, pack your bag, and embark on your dream solo journey in Vietnam.

Methodology

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1008 from Argentina, 1012 from Australia, 505 from Austria, 1001 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1009 from Canada, 1009 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 504 from Denmark, 1011 from France, 1011 from Germany, 1016 from Hong Kong, 1004 from India, 510 from Ireland, 504 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1004 from Japan, 1009 from Mexico, 1014 from The Netherlands, 1015 from New Zealand, 500 from Portugal, 502 from Singapore, 1010 from South Korea, 1009 from Spain, 502 from Sweden, 507 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 502 from the UAE, 1007 from the UK, 1005 from the US and 1007 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

The hotel will host a classical music concert in its elegant courtyard on Nov. 23

HANOI, Vietnam (Nov. 11, 2024) – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi will welcome the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra later this month for an exclusive concert performed poolside in the hotel’s elegant courtyard, followed by a sumptuous meal for Platinum guests at Le Beaulieu.

The orchestra, which was established in 1984 and has garnered acclaim around the world through concert tours, will perform two classical Mozart pieces (Clarinet Concerto in A Major and Symphony No. 40 in G Minor), conducted by maestro Honna Tetsuji, as part of “The Metropole Concert: Timeless Mozart with the VNSO.”

The special event will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23 starting at 6 p.m.

Before the concert, guests will be served gourmet canapés and welcome drinks from the hotel’s Bamboo Bar at the enchanting poolside setting. GOLD tickets, including drinks and canapés, are priced at VND 790,000++ per person. A PLATINUM package, which also includes an exquisite dinner after the performance at Le Beaulieu, is priced at VND 4,500,000++ per person. Accor Plus members enjoy 10% off the ticket price.

The welcome cocktails and canapés will be served from 6 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the classical music concert from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Le Beaulieu is Metropole Hanoi’s signature French fine-dining restaurant renowned for its modern French cuisine with nods to classical French flavors and an emphasis on seasonality and superior ingredients. While there are some traditional French touches, the presentation is stylish, with well-balanced portions and fresh produce from France, Vietnam and elsewhere.

The concert comes a month after Le Beaulieu welcomed La Tour d’Argent, the legendary 400-year-old Parisian dining establishment that inspired the hit 2007 Disney movie Ratatouille, for a series of highly exclusive meals in October.

Operating in its current space since 1901, Le Beaulieu is believed to be the oldest continually operating restaurant in Vietnam. It was recently listed in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide 2024.

For more information or to make a booking, please call 0243 826 6919 (ext. 8200), email metropolehanoi.lebeaulieu@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Hotel Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers such as playwrights, ambassadors and heads of state. The recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service, this legendary landmark has contributed to the richness of local heritage.

The hotel includes 358 rooms that are divided into two wings – the historical Heritage Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

The Metropole restaurants and bars are all famous dining venues, each offering a different exotic experience: Le Beaulieu has the best French fare in this corner of the world; Spice Garden offers elevated Vietnamese cuisine with a contemporary twist; angelina is Hanoi’s bespoke bar-lounge-restaurant; La Terrasse brings Parisian-style to the sidewalks of Hanoi; Le Club Bar treats guests to its famous afternoon high tea and cool jazz performances; and, finally, Bamboo Bar brings poolside lounging to the next level.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND

A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury, with a French zest. Alongside its 120 elegant and unique properties, the brand inaugurated in 2009 a collection of emblematic hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner: unrivalled luxury addresses with a legendary heritage and highly personalised service. Each stay is timeless, offering sumptuous surroundings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts for an inspiring luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels captivate with their architectural beauty, breathtaking views and mesmerizing ambience.

Sofitel Legend now comprises 6 hotels, each more magnificent than the last, set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations around the world: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

sofitel.com | all.com | group.accor.com

After a month of Lunar New Year train ticket sales, approximately 100,000 tickets have been sold, and there are now very few tickets left for trains on December 24-26 of the lunar calendar.

The railway industry has sold about 100,000 Tet train tickets after just over a month of opening for sale. Photo: Y Kien.

At a press briefing on Ho Chi Minh City’s socio-economic situation held on November 7, Thai Van Truyen, Deputy General Director of the Vietnam Railway Corporation, stated that around 100,000 Lunar New Year train tickets have been sold in just over a month.

“There are currently very few seats left for trains on December 24-26 of the lunar calendar. We are also considering adding extra train cars if demand continues to increase,” Mr. Truyen emphasized.

According to the corporation, about 16,000 tickets remain for departures before January 22 and from January 26 to January 28, 2025 (equivalent to before December 23 and from December 27-29 of the lunar calendar) for routes from Saigon, Di An, and Bien Flowers to Nha Trang and Hanoi.

For the peak travel days from January 23 to January 25, 2025 (December 24 to 26 on the lunar calendar), only tickets to Phan Thiet and Nha Trang stations are still available in larger quantities.

After Lunar New Year, from January 29 to February 16, 2025 (from the 1st to the 19th of the first lunar month), tickets are still available for all dates and stations.

Mr. Truyen stated that during peak periods, passenger volumes surged significantly, so the company will work closely with local authorities to ensure public safety and prevent scalping.

Additionally, during the operation of Lunar New Year trains, the company will coordinate with the HCMC Department of Transport and police to manage traffic flow, avoid congestion at key stations. Security will also be strengthened on trains to ensure passenger safety and prevent smuggling, such as illegal fireworks.

The company will also run short-distance trains during the holiday to facilitate travel for those celebrating the Lunar New Year.

To protect passenger rights, the railway sector advises purchasing tickets through official channels, such as the railway website, ticket offices, stations, authorized agents, or through e-wallet applications like Momo, VnPay, ZaloPay, ViettelPay, and the ticket hotline.

Passengers should bring their e-tickets or paper tickets along with original identification documents when traveling. Children must have a birth certificate, and those eligible for discounts must present proof, such as a student ID, war veteran card, or union membership card.

@Znews

Gen Z travelers are redefining the travel experience. Booking.com reveals insights into the preferences and habits of this tech-savvy generation.

Gen Z tends to use technology to plan their travel. Photo: Linh Huynh.

The latest survey by Booking.com shows that Gen Z is using technology to enhance their travel experience—from using AI to plan trips, seeking out tech-based amenities and services at accommodations, to preserving memories after their journeys.

Specifically:

• 51% of Vietnamese Gen Z travelers surveyed said they feel very comfortable relying on technology to create unforgettable travel experiences.
• 50% trust artificial intelligence (AI) to recommend lesser-known, less crowded destinations.
• 67% will use AI-powered travel planning tools to organize their itineraries.
• 57% show interest in tech-based amenities and modern tech services like robot assistance or AI-powered check-in points at their accommodations.
• 43% revisit photos taken during trips to recapture the relaxation and comfort they felt while vacationing.

Gen Z wants to save on travel costs but still want to have a unique experience on the trip. Photo: Linh Huynh.

According to Mr. Varun Grover, Country Director of Booking.com Vietnam, the preferences of Vietnam’s Gen Z offer an interesting perspective on the future of travel, where technology, values, and connections intertwine.

“For this generation, travel is not just about exploring new places but also expressing their unique identity, aided by AI and digital tools that enhance personalized experiences. While seeking authentic experiences and balancing personal exploration with family connections or unique values, Gen Z is shaping a more individualized and vibrant travel landscape than ever before,” said Mr. Grover.

However, beyond technology, close relationships also play a significant role in how Vietnamese Gen Z choose their travel destinations and experience each journey.

Gen Z in the world in general and Vietnam in particular like to “hunt” for discount codes for their trips. Photo: Linh Huynh.

This young generation values travel as a way to deepen personal relationships. Social media and online friend networks help influence their travel decisions.

• 64% of Gen Z respondents in Vietnam said they tend to travel with family members, 58% with parents, and 44% with spouses.
• 71% are inspired to travel by information shared by friends or family on social media.
• 56% consult friends and family for ideas and inspiration for their trips.
• Vietnamese Gen Z is unafraid to travel solo, with 52% reporting that they had traveled alone in the past six months, and 72% planning solo trips in the coming 12 months.

Additionally, Gen Z is highly mindful of budgeting. Young travelers often travel off-peak to save costs and seek unique, one-of-a-kind experiences.

In 2024, 62% of Vietnamese Gen Z travelers surveyed shared that they tend to choose short domestic trips lasting 1 to 4 nights. 52% agree that “value for money” is a crucial factor when selecting a destination.

• For financial considerations, 62% choose off-peak travel to save costs.
• 63% “hunt” for discount codes from loyalty programs to optimize their spending as much as possible.
• When considering their 2024 travel budget, 69% are interested in destinations offering unique experiences like skydiving or hot-air ballooning.

@Znews