With COVID-19 under control in Vietnam, Bui Vien street is crowded on the weekend with local residents, Vietnamese tourists from other provinces, and foreigners living in Ho Chi Minh City.

On a street less than 1 km long, there are 185 hotels, restaurants, and food shops. Before the pandemic, Bui Vien street attracted more than 2,000 people every night. Businesses here paid 260,000 USD in taxes in 2019.

Tong Huu Loc, owner of a grilled food shop, said: “On this pedestrian street, we do a good business, make a good profit, and pay taxes to the government. I propose that we reopen entertainment venues at night to attract tourists.”

Bui Vien street at peak time before COVID-19

People on Nguyen Hue street have also opened lucrative businesses and services. With visible profits, local people support the idea of opening more pedestrian streets.

Nguyen Thi Khanh, Vice Chairwoman of Ho Chi Minh City’s Tourism Association, said entertainment and shopping activities in Ho Chi Minh City at night are limited. Stores and shopping centers have limited hours of operation. Opening more pedestrian streets will boost the night economy.

Mrs. Khanh said it’s a good way to develop Ho Chi Minh City’s night economy and attract more tourists. And more pedestrian streets will reduce the crowding on Nguyen Hue street.