Many have voiced their disapproval of a new policy that requires visitors to buy tickets before entering Hoi An Ancient Town.

Hoi An authorities have been collecting entrance fees at tourist sites for some time. Now, however, instead of collecting fees at each site, tourists, both Vietnamese and foreign, must buy a ticket at one of the town gates before being allowed to enter. 

Several travel agencies have said that, even when visitors just want to shop or get something to eat in the town they are forced to buy tickets. The move has proven to be widely unpopular among visitors. According to travel agencies operating in Hoi An, there have been numerous unpleasant scenes at the gates where tourists are blocked from going in and forced to buy tickets. 

Two tourists refuse to buy tickets

One visitor said, "This is such a shame. It's one thing to collect fees for sightseeing spots, but it's annoying when you have to pay just to walk to a restaurant."

Another tourist commented that the new policy was mistake and predicted that Hoi An tourism would be hurt from a loss of visitors.

Travel companies have received many complaints and are worried that the images of Hoi An may be damaged. Not only are travel companies affected, service providers inside the town are also facing declining revenues. After news of the new fee collection system spread on internet, people have expressed their disappointment, and there have been some reports of cases where tourists refused to buy the tickets.

Empty street (photo: Vietnamnet)

Hoi An is one of Vietnam's top destinations, but recently the streets have looked relatively empty.

Domestic tourists are being required to pay VND80,000 to visit four sites they like in the ancient town while the fee for foreign tourists is VND120,000 per person for six sites.