Although the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) and Vietnamese authorities have not put out a warning about security problems in Thailand, many tourists feel concerned for their safety. This has forced travel companies to have backup plans and keep a close watch on security developments in Thailand.
After three consecutive bomb blasts in the crowded Ekamai area, east of Bangkok, which wounded five people, more than 10 countries warned their citizens from visiting Thailand. In Vietnam, no warning has been made by authorities, though tourists felt anxious to a certain extent.
Mr Vu Quyet Thang, Director of Hoang Viet Tourism Company, said: "Till now, three groups with more than 150 tourists cancelled tours to Thailand in March. However, this figure is insignificant compared to the total. Our company also received a number of requests from foreign tourists to shift their destinations to Vietnam instead of Thailand due to security reasons.
However, Mr Nguyen Minh Man, Director of Communication Department, Vietravel Tourist Company, said: “The wave of foreign tourists to Vietnam is not actually caused by Thailand tour cancellations, because they usually have early plans. Besides, they are not banned from visiting Thailand by their authorities.”
To ensure security for visitors, Vietnamese tour operators pay close attention to the situation, arranging tours reasonably and recommending clients stay away from luxury and sensitive locations in Bangkok. More to the point, they are urgently working with Thai authorities, partners and airlines to have flexible policies and measures to help tourists in case of any incidents.
“We are keeping an eye on domestic and international media to provide information accurately and objectively for our clients and advise undecided clients,” said Mr Thang.
In addition, to provide maximum benefits for travellers, many travel companies are trying to increase insurance coverage.
"The company has teamed up with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Vietnamese representative offices in foreign countries, development partners, and international insurance companies to ensure security for travellers. Since 2010, Golden Tour purchases the highest 24/24h insurance for the entire trip, valued at VND630 million. Customers will be strongly supported and assisted in case of meeting crisis,” said Mr Pham Tien Dung, Director of Golden Tour & Convention Centre.
On the Thailand side, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has established the Rapid Response and Crisis Management Centre to gather information and send immediate notification to visitors for the sake of their safety.
“Looking back on the past years, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has managed to resolve security matters very well, even in more complicated events. With the close monitoring of Vietnamese operators, Vietnamese travellers can rest assured in their tours,” said Mr Dung.
Thu Huyen
Vietnamese
