okay, I'll just wait here
Tet in Vietnam is the holiday celebrating the srart of a new Lunar Year and man it's a big deal, no, make that a "mega" big deal. Saigon partially shuts down for a week or so as many in Saigon head back to see there families or as most are off so it's a good time to travel. Unlike the west Vietnamese can't pick a vacation time, and a 7 day work week is not all the unusual so extra time for a holiday is out of the question until Tet. When Tet week happens, most are given time off along with a holiday bonus, many head home to see family while others use the holiday and extra money for vacation travel.
A special note: If you don't have family in Vietnam, eating and shopping can be a challenge as many businesses close. Travel using public transport can be tough also as a good part of the people in the country are on the move but hotels are normally easy to find as most Vietnamese travellers are visiting and staying with family. Also, during this period prices for goods and services can double or go even higher as Vietnamese except this because it's Tet.
Traditionally the Tet holiday was three days in duration. Day one spent with the family at home, day two to honour teachers and day three to spend with friends. The tradition of spending time with families and friends is still the corner stone of the celebration but it has gown into a much grander event. Families save through out the year to assure they have as many resources as possible to welcome in the New Year. Their are clothes to buy, homes to be spruced up and gifts for friends and family. All with the intent to get off to a new fresh start in the New Year.
The plus side for us foreigners visiting during this period, especially here in Saigon, is the city is just about deserted... However, you miss out on a lot of interesting things so visit during Tet but extend your stay so you can get the real feel of Vietnam not just the stuff open for tourists during the holiday.
Chuck mung nam moi (happy new year)!!
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