Travelers to Da Nang can see green logos with smiling faces saying ‘Free Restroom’ and the message ‘Thoai mai nhu o nha' stuck at entrance doors of restaurants, hotels and service facilities in the city. 

When seeing the logos, travelers know that they can use the toilets free of charge.

The ‘Thoai mai nhu o nha’ model was initiated by Son Tra district People’s Committee in Da Nang. This is to advertise the image of Da Nang as a friendly city.

“Thoai mai nhu o nha – comfort like home" is based on the voluntary spirit of eateries and accommodation service providers. Those who agree to participate in the campaign will stick logos at entrance doors and toilet areas for easy recognition."

Luong The Toan, the owner of Thang Long Chicken Pho in Son Tra district, said he agreed to participate in the campaign as soon as he was introduced to it. There are still not many public toilets in the city, while many existing toilets are subpar.

“The model provides good quality services to tourists and advertises our restaurant,” he said, adding that he hopes more restaurants will participate.

“This is a good way to invite travelers to Da Nang. I have told workers to regularly check and clean toilets,” he said.

Pham Thi Trang, the owner of New Sky Hotel, said people sometimes in the past asked for permission to use the restrooms of the hotel. But after the logo appeared, they felt free to use the service. She believes that travelers will have a better impression of the hotel.

Son Tra district localities said they tried to persuade at least 50 service facilities to apply the service along the backbone routes serving tourists in wards An Hai Tay, An Hai Dong, An Hai Bac, Man Thai and Phuoc My. 

However, the number of facilities voluntarily providing services far exceeded the figure.

The local authorities have asked for updated information about the model for the purpose of public recognition.

Nguyen Hoang Viet, deputy chair of Son Tra district, said the model was applied in 2015. However, it was interrupted because of the pandemic. And now the activity has resumed.

Cong Sang