The agency said on February 18 that nearly 20,000 foreign tourists, including over 17,000 Chinese, have cancelled their tours to Hanoi.
It added that the Vietnamese capital city is the destination to visitors from 190 countries and territories, with Asians accounting for 65% and Europeans 25%. In Asia, the Republic of Korea is the largest source of tourists to Hanoi.
At present, Hanoi considers ensuring safety for visitors as the top priority, and is disinfecting tourist spots and providing face masks to tourists free of charge.
Deputy Director of the Tourism Department Tran Trung Hieu said the city will redetermine its key markets, continue to take part in international travel fairs in Europe, Japan and North Asia and cooperate with Vietnam Airlines to promote new destinations.
Concerning Formula One’s Hanoi grand prix, slated for early April, Hieu said preparations are still underway as scheduled.
The Tourism Department is working with accommodation facilities and travel agencies to ensure safety for visitors and enhance service quality during this time.
Despite numerous difficulties, Hanoi still aims to welcome 31.88 million visitors, both domestic and foreign, in 2020.
