Tourism Trends In Vietnam, Tourists Visit Mothers Who Just Give Birth

Illustration of mothers giving birth (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Vietnamese tourism now has a unique attraction that is increasingly in demand by foreign tourists. In addition to natural beauty and historical sites, the experience of authentic culture becomes a new magnet, including unusual activities such as visiting mothers who have just given birth in rural areas.

Reported by VOI from the VN Express page on Monday, January 20, 2025, a tour guide in Hanoi named Vu Ngoc Son managed to attract attention on social media after sharing videos of foreign tourists involved in unique experiences, such as visiting mothers who had just given birth and exploring funerals.

Son, 34, often shares videos documenting unique activities from his guests. Last November, during a trip to Ninh Binh Province near Hanoi, he arranged the visit of a British tourist to his recently born acquaintance's house.

"Most of my guests come from those people," said Son.

He said tourists usually spend around USD 3,000 or IDR 49 million for a 10 to 12 day trip in Vietnam.

Although lists of their travel plans are usually designed to provide premium experiences, about 30 percent of guests want experiences outside of public tourist destinations and want to experience local culture and daily life.

The British tourist initially planned to explore Ninh Binh and enjoy boat trips on the river. Due to leg pain and lack of interest in ordinary tourist destinations, he chose a cultural experience in rural areas.

Son also arranged visits to local residents' homes so that their guests could feel authentic rural life.

At the house of a mother who has just given birth, Son explained that in Vietnam, newborns symbolize happiness, and people usually bring gifts as a sign of good prayers. The tourists also explore other aspects of rural life, such as visiting chicken farms and traveling in the fields.

"Most guests want to learn about history and culture, and feel bored with traditional tourist destinations. That's why I created programs like this," explained Son.

These programs are often spontaneous and adapted to guest preferences.

Son has offered a unique tour experience over the past few years. Two years ago, while traveling with a client from Bulgaria, he saw a funeral and decided to bring them in to learn the traditions of funerals and funerals in Vietnam.

One of Son's most memorable experiences was last year, when he brought two tourists from South Africa to celebrate New Year's Eve in a local village.

Despite having a flight schedule, these tourists insist on staying longer because they enjoy the atmosphere. Luckily, business class tickets and priority check-in facilities make them not miss their flight.

Most of Son's clients come from developed countries, where social interactions tend to be more formal or distant. Experiencing a family lifestyle and togetherness in Vietnam left a deep impression, with many guests expressing their desire to return.

"The Vietnamese people, known for their hospitality, rarely refuse requests to entertain foreign guests. However, certain programs such as visiting a mother who has just given birth require previous promises and assistance from close acquaintances because of their personal nature," said Son.

"Many guests say they feel they are part of Vietnam after participating in these activities," he continued.

Although his unique approach drew various opinions, including criticisms calling him unorganized, Son remains focused on ensuring his guests return home with unforgettable memories and deep appreciation for Vietnam.