A stunning recreation of heroine Võ Thị Sáu at the opening ceremony of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Tourism Week on Friday night. VNA/VNS Photo

Bồ Xuân Hiệp

BÀ RỊA-VŨNG TÀU — Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province, a hidden gem of Việt Nam, is buzzing with excitement as Tourism Week kicked off on Friday, offering a range of activities that are sure to attract both local and international tourists.

A variety of exciting activities are planned for the event taking place until November 19 such as a culinary festival, a beer festival, and an expo showcasing “One Commune-One Product” (OCOP) products.

There are also paragliding performances, paramotor performances, sporting activities such as kayaking, a kite festival, and a friendly golf tournament at The Bluffs Grand Hồ Tràm.

In addition, a green tourism forum will be held for participants to discuss green tourism development in the province.

There are also exhibitions of sand sculptures and performances depicting the image of the heroine Võ Thị Sáu, showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the area.

The event aims to attract more visitors to the province during the off-peak season and become an annual part of the area’s cultural calendar.

“We came all the way from Australia to be a part of this Tourism Week and it has exceeded all our expectations,” James and Sarah, a couple from Australia, told Việt Nam News.

“We have traveled from Hà Nội to attend the Tourism Week and we are impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and the variety of activities on offer. It’s a great opportunity to explore the beauty of this coastal city,” said Nguyễn Thu Hương and her husband, tourists from Hà Nội.

Trần Thị Thu Hiền, deputy director of the provincial Department of Tourism, speaks at the opening ceremony of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Tourism Week on Friday night. VNA/VNS Photo

Speaking at the event’s opening ceremony, Trần Thị Thu Hiền, deputy director of the provincial Department of Tourism, said the Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Tourism Week is part of the provincial tourism industry’s efforts to adapt to new development trends.

The efforts include embracing sustainable tourism practices and providing a range of high-quality, engaging activities for tourists, she said.

Tourism Week aims to promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the tourism industry through various initiatives and activities, she added.

The event advocates responsible tourism practices, such as minimising environmental impact, respecting local cultures, and supporting the local economy, she noted.

A drone captures the formation of the words BRVT (Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu) from above. VNA/VNS Photo

It also promotes eco-friendly tours and activities that showcase the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region while promoting conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.

The event will also award tourism businesses and organisations that have adopted sustainable and eco-friendly practices, thus incentivising others to follow suit.

The city encourages local communities to promote sustainable tourism by showcasing their traditional practices, crafts, and eco-friendly products.

Their efforts will offer economic opportunities for local residents and foster a sense of pride in their natural and cultural heritage, according to Hiền.

The opening ceremony of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Tourism Week draws a large and enthusiastic audience. VNA/VNS Photo

The event will also collaborate with environmental organisations to implement conservation and sustainable tourism projects, such as beach clean-ups, tree planting, and habitat restoration.

“Tourism Week in Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu plays a crucial role in raising awareness, promoting best practices, and fostering a culture of sustainability and eco-friendliness within the tourism industry,” she noted.

Paragliding performances in Vũng Tàu City during Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Tourism Week. VNA/VNS Photo

As Tourism Week unfolds with its array of activities and events, Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu is poised to make a mark as a must-visit destination, even in the off-peak tourist season.

So, pack your bags, and “Let’s Go!!! Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu” for an unforgettable experience in this enchanting coastal city.

Phạm Ngọc Hải, chairman of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province’s Tourism Association, said the event aims to not only boost the local economy but also promote sustainable tourism development in the region.

“Safety and environmental sustainability are top priorities for the event organisers, with measures in place to ensure the well-being of tourists and locals alike,” Hải said. — VNS