Cat Ba Island near the northern port city of Hai Phong has received its one millionth tourist, which marks the vigorous growth of the local tourism sector in recent times.

 A ceremony to welcome Neil Hunter from Australia was held on Christmas Eve by Cat Hai district authorities in coordination with the Haiphong department for culture, sports and tourism.

Monre.gov.vn

The reception for this tourist came one year earlier than expected. The number of tourists to Cat Ba surged in 2009, bringing the island a total turnover of VND400 billion, which exceeds the 2008 figure by VND100 billion.

In 2009, the island introduced many more tours and a new ferry between Cat Ba and Tuan Chau international resort in Ha Long city.

The one millionth and the two other tourists listed next to him were all presented with free accommodation in VIP rooms, buffet, and Xmas party in the Holiday View Hotel.

At the moment many hotels and guesthouses have launched massive promotions with 30 percent discounts for rooms and 10 percent discounts for food and restaurant services.