A long transit in Ho Chi Minh City should not just be about killing time!…
Vietnamese Festivals and Events Guide – Exploring the City During Transit
Waiting during transit, just sitting and staring at the clock hands… what a waste! Especially in a country like Vietnam, brimming with events and festivals that color the calendar. Vietnam hosts about 8,000 events throughout the year, ranging from traditional festivals to the latest events and international festivals. Use your transit time to seize the opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture.
While sightseeing during a layover can be fun, are you thinking you’d rather take it easy and relax?
If so, I recommend scheduling some rest at a transit hotel specifically for layovers.
Check out the article below for affordable transit hotels in Ho Chi Minh where you can rest.
Experiencing Vietnamese Culture During Transit
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)
The most important festival in Vietnam, where families gather to celebrate the New Year. During Tet, the entire city is festively decorated, and everywhere is imbued with a festive mood. Foods, costumes, and decorations related to the Lunar New Year abound, especially in Ho Chi Minh’s Tao Dan Park, where the New Year Flower Festival is held, displaying beautiful flowers. Even just witnessing these preparations during transit can let you feel Vietnamese culture.
2024 Dates：Tet in 2024 will last from Thursday, February 8, to Wednesday, February 14. This period is the most important traditional holiday in Vietnam, a time for families to gather and celebrate the New Year.
Locations: Celebrated throughout Vietnam, but especially at Tao Dan Park in Ho Chi Minh, where the New Year Flower Festival displays beautiful flowers. During Tet, the entire city is festively decorated, filled with special dishes and decorations.
Official URL: There is no specific official website for Tet, but information about Vietnamese culture and events can be found on the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism’s website.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
In the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Hoi An, the Lantern Festival is held on the 14th day of each lunar month. On this day, electric lights are turned off, and the town is illuminated only by lanterns. The enchanting atmosphere includes lanterns floated on the Thu Bon River and locals making wishes. If you transit through Hoi An, you might be able to participate in this beautiful festival of lights.
2024 Dates: The Hoi An Lantern Festival is held monthly on the 14th day of the lunar calendar.
Locations: In the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Hoi An, where electric lights are turned off, and the town is illuminated by lanterns alone.
Official URL: There is no specific official website for the Lantern Festival, but information about Hoi An can be found on Hoi An’s official tourism website.
Tips for Participating in Vietnamese Events
Pre-Research: Before visiting Vietnam, research the events and festivals taking place. Depending on the timing, you might find an event that matches your transit time.
Check Local Transportation: Check the transportation options to the event venue in advance. Knowing how to use taxis or public transportation can be handy.
Dress Lightly: For short city explorations, it’s recommended to dress comfortably and carry only the essentials.
Conclusion
Instead of just passing the time, consider your transit time in Vietnam as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture. Participating in festivals and events, and refreshing yourself at a day-use hotel, can make transit an enjoyable part of your journey. Spend memorable time in Vietnam.
Refreshing at Day-Use Hotels After a long flight or city exploration, taking a break at a day-use hotel is one option. In Vietnam, especially in major cities, more hotels are offering flexible check-in and check-out times for transit users. These hotels allow you to refresh yourself for a few hours, take a shower, and rest before your next flight.
In Ho Chi Minh, there are hotels offering day-use for transit. Choose the best room according to your plan.
How to Make the Most of Day-Use Hotels: https://daydreamhub.com/make-the-most-of-your-11-hour-layover-a-guide-to-a-comfortable-stay-at-saigon-domaine-from-ho-chi-minh-airport/
Day-Use Hotels Available in Ho Chi Minh: https://daydreamhub.com/city/ho-chi-minh-city/
While sightseeing during a layover can be fun, are you thinking you’d rather take it easy and relax?
If so, I recommend scheduling some rest at a transit hotel specifically for layovers.
Check out the article below for affordable transit hotels in Ho Chi Minh where you can rest.
