Thousands of local and foreign tourists flocked to Bùi Viện Walking Street in the popular backpacker area of HCM City’s District 1 as it officially welcomed walkers at its grand opening last night.

Bui Vien Walking Street officially welcomed walkers last night

The street will be reserved exclusively for pedestrians from 7pm to 2am at weekends.

During this time, vendors will be allowed to display their merchandise on the pavement, but not on the road.

Two stages for live music performances will also be set up at the two ends of the street, promoting both Vietnamese folk songs and international music.

In addition, tourists will enjoy free Wi-Fi services, public toilets and other tourist-related services.

Foreign visitors have already praised the street for selling “cheap beer” and “providing good services”.

Mahlet Christie, from Australia, said it was a very good idea to open the walking street. “We love it as everything here is so accessible. It was interesting to sit on the street watching everyone going past.”

“The food is amazing as always. Vietnamese beer is very good. Sài Gòn beer is the best,” she told Việt Nam News.

Vũ Ngọc Khiêm, of Bình Thạnh District, said, “This is more fun, definitely a more exciting place to hangout for foreign visitors and even locals like me.”

Located in Pham Ngũ Lão Ward in District 1, the city’s new pedestrian street is expected to offer local residents and tourists a range of entertainment activities.

Since the middle of July, authorities in District 1 have piloted a vehicle ban from 7pm to 2am on weekends, while also carrying out upgrades to pavements along the street./.

VNF/VNA