Shining lights: A bird’s eye view of HCM City. —Photo english.vov.vn

HÀ NỘI —There were 40 provinces at the HCM City Tourism Festival from March 24 to 27, organised before the summer peak tourism season to introduce new, unique, affordable tours.

This year many provinces joined hands to put up a common kiosk to provide an overview of their respective regions.

Domestic tours were offered at discounts of 20 – 35 per cent and international tours at discounts of VNĐ1.2 – 3.9 million (US$55-180), with tours to Thailand costing just VNĐ4.9 million ($225) including a five-star buffet and Japan tours, VNĐ29.9 million ($1,400). — VNS