December, the most joyful month of the year, has come and all you want to think about are probably presents and the holidays. Yet, as we’re fighting against a vicious global pandemic, celebrations this year will be your most unique one ever. In this article, we’re going to update you on how Vietnam is controlling the pandemic and ways that you and your family can enjoy Christmas in Vietnam and New Year’s Eve during COVID-19.
Updates on COVID-19 in Vietnam
After successfully defending against the first and second wave of COVID-19 within the country in July, Vietnam has had a few months of regular operation in most aspects of life. Businesses were continued, and the government has had considerable efforts to revive tourism, which resulted in increased domestic traveling.
However, in early December, Vietnam faced new cases of COVID-19 infection in the community. Luckily, due to early detection and our experiences gained from previous successful COVID-19 control plans, the situation is now under good control. As of now, there are under 10 positive cases of community infection in Ho Chi Minh City and no cases in other provinces. The total infected patients up to date are 1,365, out of which 1,220 people have recovered. With this data, many experts are hopeful that Ho Chi Minh City in particular, and Vietnam in general, will be able to prevent a third wave of COVID-19. See more on How Ho Chi Minh City is Dealing with COVID-19.
Vietnamese citizens take COVID-19 prevention seriously
Even though the situation isn’t severe currently, Vietnam has taken strict necessary precautions. Many schools and universities in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are off. Some major public activities and festivals in Vietnam are still closed. From November 15, individuals who don’t wear masks in public, and those who don’t report to the local authority about infected cases will face a hefty fine from 1 to 3 million VND. Nevertheless, social distancing isn’t in effect, so hopefully, we can celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19 with fewer restrictions.
How to Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19 Safely
Stay Updated on the Latest News and Regulations
To stay healthy, equipping yourselves with the latest news is key. One reliable source of information that you should bookmark is https://ncov.moh.gov.vn/ – our government’s website dedicated to everything COVID-19-related, including daily updates on the number of infected cases and measurements from the authorities.
See the Latest Updates on Vietnam Travel during COVID-19
Follow Precautions against COVID-19 Strictly
Wearing masks in public is the 101 to prevent being infected by the virus
Needless to say, to prevent contracting the virus, one should always follow these established measures, even if not required by the government:
- Always wear masks in public. See types of masks available in Vietnam.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If that option isn’t available, use hand sanitizer and avoid touching your face.
- Respect social distancing rules. Now you don’t need to stay 2 meters away from other people but avoiding crowded places is advisable. Noting down your travel itineraries will be helpful for contact tracing too.
- Prefer eating at home and entertainment activities that you can do inside your house or away from other people. Here are some fun activities you can do at home.
- Keep essential information during a health emergency at hand, such as emergency contacts, hospital etiquettes, and the procedure to take in case you’re wondering if you’re infected.
Safe Activities You Can Do to Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19
There are many ways to enjoy the holidays in Vietnam like having Christmas dinner in the city or visiting churches. However, as protecting our loved ones’ and our own well-being is the most important thing, celebrations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19 should be more private. Here are some of our recommended ways to rejoice safely:
Private Tours in Vietnam
You can customize every aspect of your trip on a private tour
If you’ve been itching to visit new places, how about taking a private tour in Vietnam? These tours will give you the freedom to explore while not worrying about traveling with many people. You can choose an off-the-beaten-path itinerary to see hidden sights around where you live and travel alone or in a small group of friends. What’s best is that you don’t have to worry about planning and searching for activities during Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19. Just pack your bag and explore with knowledgeable local tour guides!
Staycation in Vietnam
End a year or start a new one while pampering yourself on a staycation
Recently emerged as one of the leading trends of traveling during COVID-19, staycation in Vietnam is a fun way to explore the city’s landscape and support the hospitality industry during this challenging time. If you’ve been dreaming about 5-star hotel’s services but haven’t had the budget for it yet, now is the time!
Picnicking and Camping in Vietnam
Picnicking and camping is one of the safest outdoor activities during COVID-19 in Vietnam to do
As Vietnam has a pleasant “winter” that doesn’t even drop below 18o Celsius in the South, Christmas and New Year’s Eve are two ideal opportunities to go picnicking or camping. During the holidays, people will flock to popular tourist destinations, leaving the city with no crowds. You can discover a different side of the town when it’s not full of the hustle and bustle and bond with your friends and family in the peaceful air of the city’s green spaces. Alternatively, camping can give you the chance to admire Vietnam’s raw beauty and experience its wilder side of things.
Get information more on Traveling in Vietnam during COVID-19
Our Thoughts on Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19
Even though the pandemic has turned our lives upside down, December is still the time to rejoice and to appreciate our loved ones. And hopefully, with COVID-19 being under good control throughout the country, you can enjoy Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Vietnam during COVID-19 safely and happily. Comment down below if you have more ideas for celebrating the holiday during this special time!
See more on How to Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Ho Chi Minh City