After being stranded on Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island due to a tour company’s default, 292 Taiwanese tourists have finally returned home.
The tourists, who had booked a four-day tour through We Love Tour company in Taipei, were left without accommodations or transportation upon arrival on Feb. 10.
Despite the Taiwanese partner’s failure to make the full payment by Jan. 31 as agreed, the tourists were sent to Phu Quoc. Fortunately, local travel agency Winner Vietnam stepped in to assist, providing buses, guides, and lodging.
Efforts to resolve the situation included collaboration between Vietnamese tourism authorities and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in HCMC. The airline involved, Bamboo Airways, transported the tourists back to Taiwan despite not receiving payment from the tour company.
Criticism mounted on social media, with many condemning We Love Tour for abandonment and calling for strict actions against the company.
Authorities have vowed to penalize any violations by Vietnamese companies and urged the Taiwanese company to make full payment by Feb. 26.
The incident, occurring during the Lunar New Year, garnered international attention, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism management and ensuring the welfare of travelers.
SOURCE: Stranded Taiwanese Tourists Return Home From Phu Quoc BY: eTurboNews | eTN