A Vietnamese reader, Nguyen Duc Huy, has voiced his criticism over three foreign tourists strolling down Hanoi streets wearing only bikinis, saying this is an offensive act and unacceptable.

A video showing three foreign women of unknown nationality walking in two-piece swimsuits along the streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter has gone viral on social media, sparking public outrage.

Huy, a seasoned tourism professional who has visited various destinations, expressed his anger over the tourists' choice of attire, emphasizing that the Old Quarter is far from a beach and that visitors should demonstrate more respect.

In response to online comments suggesting that the women may have worn bikinis due to Hanoi's heat, Huy countered that no one else felt compelled to dress in swimwear.

He stressed that dressing modestly and adhering to local customs is not unique to Vietnam and is a common expectation in many other countries.

Huy believes that while Vietnam is known for its hospitality, it does not need tourists who disregard local norms.

He suggested that if tourists inadvertently dress inappropriately, they should be politely reminded, but if done deliberately, they might not be welcomed.

As hosts, Huy insisted on setting expectations and having the right to refuse service to those who do not respect local customs.

He also pointed to tourism service providers as partly responsible for such incidents.

For further proof, Huy cited a story his teacher told him when he hosted an American professor at his home.

Huy's teacher refused to receive his guest as he arrived in a T-shirt and shorts.

At the time, members of the teacher's community said he was being too extreme and fussy; however, the teacher was firm in his belief that he did not want a guest who came to his house for the first time in an inappropriate outfit, as he and his nation have self-respect.

Huy suggested issuing strict regulations for tourists visiting cultural, historical, and religious sites.

For example, visitors to Tam Co Cave in north-central Quang Binh Province must wear shirts that cover their armpits and pants or skirts that cover their knees. If they arrive wearing the wrong thing, they have to borrow clothes from the cave management.

Huy added that many countries have regulations on clothing for anyone visiting temples, pagodas, and other public places.

In particular, all people visiting pagodas in Myanmar have to leave shoes and socks outside. There is no exception, and even police, military officers, and political leaders have to comply.

Huy passionately believes that Vietnamese people "have the right to have rules, as long as they are in line with the law, [to ensure] the respect for our nation’s customs, traditions, and culture.”

Like us on Facebook or  follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!