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"Free Restroom" is a form of socializing public restrooms, piloted by the Truc Bach Ward People's Committee on many streets with food businesses since March, creating conditions for passersby and tourists to use restrooms free of charge at eateries and restaurants.
Businesses that agree to participate will display the "More Refreshing at Home" logo in front of their premises so that locals and tourists can easily identify them. From now on, whenever tourists need to use the restroom while out and about, they can simply look for places with the green "Free Restroom" smiley face logo and will be served free of charge.
Numerous shops and restaurants simultaneously displayed friendly slogans such as "More refreshing than being at home."
Prior to the pilot program, the People's Committee of Truc Bach Ward invited local businesses to a meeting to gather their opinions in a democratic and transparent manner. Food and accommodation businesses unanimously agreed with the pilot model, with approximately 20 establishments registering to participate.
In addition, Truc Bach ward has also established a working group to promote and encourage hotels, restaurants, accommodation establishments, food service businesses, and cafes in the area to participate in the "Free Restroom" model.
Although aware that some customers may be inconsiderate and not maintain general hygiene, participating businesses believe that hospitality will make the street more welcoming and contribute to promoting the local tourism image. Mr. Le Tat Thanh, Chairman of the Truc Bach Ward People's Committee, emphasized: "Establishments are not obligated to serve 'impolite' customers. We instruct shop owners to be friendly and supportive, but not lenient, to avoid unfortunate incidents."
After a few weeks of implementation, the "Free Restroom" initiative is receiving positive feedback from tourists, especially foreign visitors. Most agree that this model greatly enhances their experience in the city, and if quality is maintained, it will encourage economic and tourism development.
If the quality is ensured, the model is expected to create momentum for economic and tourism development.
To date, 25 free public toilets are operational on major streets such as Hang Than, Truc Bach, and Ngu Xa. It is expected that before the April 30th - May 1st holiday, 80% of other streets in the area will implement this model.
Truc Bach Ward also applies digital transformation, updating Free Restroom data on its portal, website, and fanpage. Residents and tourists can find free restroom locations on these platforms when needed.
