What is International Labor Day?
International Labor Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated globally on May 1st to honor the contributions of workers and to advocate for labor rights. Originating from labor movements in the late 19th century, the day commemorates the fight for fair working conditions and the eight-hour workday.
In Vietnam, International Labor Day is recognized as a national public holiday, emphasizing the importance of the working class in the country’s development. Many people take the opportunity to relax or travel during the extended holiday period created by its pairing with Reunification Day on April 30th.
Traveling during International Labor Day in Vietnam
International Labor Day is recognized as a public holiday and falls on May 1st each year. It is good to know that International Labor Day coincides with Reunification Day, which is celebrated on April 30th, marking the reunification of North and South Vietnam. When either of these days falls on a weekend, they are observed on the following weekday, creating an extended holiday period. This makes it one of the longest holidays in Vietnam.
During this time, many Vietnamese take the opportunity to travel, either returning to their hometowns to visit their parents or exploring domestic and international destinations. Consequently, accommodations, buses, trains, and flights tend to be fully booked, and popular tourist sites can be extremely crowded.
Tips for Traveling During the Holiday
International Labor Day, combined with Reunification Day on April 30th, creates an extended holiday period in Vietnam. While it’s not as overwhelming as Tet, the country’s biggest holiday when even restaurants and businesses close, this period still brings increased crowds and high demand for transportation and accommodations. Fortunately, the holiday is relatively short, lasting just a few days, so with a bit of planning, you can enjoy your travels without major inconveniences.
For travelers planning to visit Vietnam during this period, it is advisable to follow these tips to make your trip smoother during this holiday:
- Book accommodations early: Popular destinations like Da Nang, Hoi An, Dalat, and Phu Quoc fill up quickly. Secure your stay at least a month in advance to avoid limited options or inflated prices.
- Plan transportation well ahead: Domestic flights, buses, and trains are in high demand during this time. Consider booking your transportation early or planning your travel to avoid peak holiday traffic—either just before or after the holiday. Alternatively, traveling in the middle of the holiday period may offer slightly less crowded options.
- Explore non-touristy places: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting lesser-known destinations. Check out our guide to off-the-beaten-track places in Vietnam for inspiration.
