DANANG – While tourism in Danang is showing positive signs, reporting an increase by 50% in June compared to May and expected to grow further in July and August thanks to domestic tourism, the industry is concerned about the latter half of the year when domestic tourism declines and international tourism fails to reopen.
Chairman of Danang Travel Association, Doan Hai Dang, said that while most travel businesses have reopened after being shut due to the Covid-19 pandemic, their capacity was only some 20% compared to the same period last year because they are catering to only domestic tourists.
In the case of his own company, Vietravel – Danang Branch, where he is the director, Dang said it reopened from May 20, focusing mainly on domestic tours. “This year, July and August will be our golden months to attract domestic tourists. In September, companies will await international tourists,” Dang noted, adding that many tourism companies are introducing inbound and outbound tours.
Nguyen Ngoc Anh, Director of Omega Tours, specializing in the Korean market and other international markets, said that from February until now, his company has been almost completely shut.
From early June, he earned a living by leasing his cars to those organizing domestic tours. “In July and August, the demand for rental cars may increase due to a rise in domestic tourism. But the income will not be much because tour prices have reduced by 50% year-on-year. In September, when domestic tourists decline, we will shut down again,” Anh stated, adding that while awaiting international tourists, he has to find a way to manage his bank debts.
Companies running accommodation services are also on the same page.
Nguyen Duc Quynh, Deputy General Director of Furama Resort Danang, said that in the last two months, Furama opened its doors only partly to create jobs for its employees.
In June, the daily occupancy rate of the resort ranged from 10% to 40%, Quynh said, adding that in July, only two days have been fully booked.
“We can only cover salaries and other basic expenses. But this is also good news,” Quynh said, adding that they would be able to sustain the business until August. In September and October, business will drop once the number of domestic tourists declines and international visitors are unable to resume travel.
Quynh, Vice Chairman of Danang Tourism Association, said that during this time companies must change the way they make plans as well as deliver messages to customers. Accordingly, plans must be made monthly depending on the actual situation. Meanwhile, safe and clean tourism must be promoted.
By Nhan Tam
