The Vietnamese government has approved a proposal allowing hotels of four- and five-star standard to offer some entertainment services until 2am from now to the end of 2010.

According to the present rules, entertainment centres have to close their doors after 12 at night, which is said too early for foreign visitors.

According to a dispatch signed by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Sinh Hung, sent to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the ministry will select some hotels for the implementation of the above policy on a trial basis.

However, the ministry has to combine with the Ministry of Public Security and local authorities to strictly manage the hotels’ operations. After the trial period, related agencies will have to report to the government their suggestions for the next phase.

This policy is considered one way to promote tourism in the current difficult period.

The government also agreed in principle that international travel joint-venture firms should be allowed to provide overseas tours for Vietnamese and foreigners who are living in Vietnam under specific guidelines.

At present, entertainment centres have to close their doors after 12 at night.

VietNamNet/DT