Five Vietnamese places among world’s 20 best backpacking destinations
Ha Giang, Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Quy Nhon of Vietnam have been listed among the 20 best global destinations for backpackers to visit in 2020, according to recent rankings published by Hostelworld.
Terrace fields in the northern mountainous province of Ha Giang (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) – Ha Giang, Phong Nha - KeBang National Park, Ninh Binh, Ha Long, and Quy Nhon of Vietnam have beenlisted among the 20 best global destinations for backpackers to visit in 2020,according to recent rankings published by Hostelworld.
The northern mountainous province of Ha Giangcame fourth in the list. Travelers can start their adventure in the provincialcapital of the same name by renting a motorbike and journeying through theregion’s many picturesque winding roads. Guests will encounter ruralcommunities, small towns, and ancient traditions, all set against the rollinggreen mountains that make the province so unforgettable.
Ranking sixth is the Phong Nha - Ke BangNational Park in Bo Trach district of central Quang Binh province. The area isrenowned as one of the largest nature reserves in the country that features asystem of majestic limestone mountains and caves.
The northern province of Ninh Binh was 10th inthe list. It is home to a number of tourist sites such as Trang An tourismcomplex, Hoa Lu ancient capital, and Bai Dinh pagoda.
The north-eastern province of Quang Ninh wasranked 18th. One of the most attractive experiences for guests to the area istouring the world natural heritage site of Ha Long Bay.
The bay spans over 1,550 square kilometres and features thousands of limestonekarsts and islets in various shapes and sizes.
In 20th position was Quy Nhon city in central BinhDinh province. Its pristine beaches and islets have become popular for manydomestic and foreign tourists in recent years./.
Vietnam was voted as the second-best destination for expats to live and work in 2019, revealed the latest Expat Insider survey published by InterNations.
The 400-year-old city of Hoi An in central Vietnam has jumped four places to the 7th position on this year’s list of 10 cheapest destinations for the British.
The central coastal city of Da Nang and southern economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City have been named among the top 25 trending destinations in the world for 2020 by the world’s largest travel platform TripAdvisor.
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has instructed the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MoCST) to coordinate with other ministries, agencies and localities to effectively implement policies and directives from the Party, Government, and Prime Minister on tourism development.
Da Nang's appeal stems from its numerous outstanding tourist attractions, particularly My Khe Beach, Sun World Ba Na Hills resort, and the ancient town of Hoi An. Additionally, Da Nang tourism is renowned for its affordability, especially attractive to young travellers and couples, according to Chosun Ilbo.
With new direct flights from major Indian cities like Hyderabad and Bengaluru, Vietnam is becoming an increasingly compelling destination for Indian tourists seeking a quick, emotionally rich four-day escape that blends luxury, culture, and natural wonder.
By source market, China continued to lead with 3.1 million visitors, equivalent to 25.5% of all foreign arrivals. The Republic of Korea followed with 2.5 million, or 20.7%. Other major markets included Taiwan (China) with 737,000, the US with 522,000, and Japan with 380,000.
Khanh Hoa has welcomed 16 international cruises so far this year, with more than 19,000 tourists disembarking to explore the province’s scenic landscapes and renowned cultural, religious, and artistic landmarks, as well as to enjoy local cuisine and sightseeing tours.
According to local plans, fireworks shows will be held at multiple locations, with Ha Long Bay as the focal point. More than mere entertainment, these displays are part of a strategic cultural tourism product aimed at strengthening the region’s brand.
Chatbot and virtual assistants support itinerary consultation and tour bookings, and provide around-the-clock response across multiple platforms while AI advertising applications have been used to optimise budgets and target the right customers. AI has been also employed to analyse customer data, enabling the delivery of personalised tour recommendations.
Many Vietnamese regions possess favourable conditions, including natural landscapes, climate, and rich cultural identities, to host sport events that integrate with cultural and tourism experiences.
Dubbed the “land of ancient towers”, Khanh Hoa boasts a rich Cham legacy through architectural masterpieces like the Po Nagar, Hoa Lai, Po Klong Garai, and Po Rome towers.
Vietnam’s e-visa system is now seen as one of the most efficient, convenient, and transparent in the region. Fully online registration, no paperwork or interviews, and fast and flexible processing time have improved foreigners’ entry experience, creating a competitive advantage over countries clinging to complicated and costly visa procedures.
Sunset Town unfolded like a living fairytale. Every street and hidden corner recalls iconic European landmarks – from Venice’s San Marco Bell Tower and Paris’s Arc de Triomphe to Almafi-style squares and cobblestone paths reminiscent of southern Italy.
Its natural advantages have made Mui Ne a magnet for enthusiasts of kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). These activities not only diversify the local tourism offerings but also contribute to the area’s long-term development strategy focused on sustainability.
In July alone, the city welcomed 695,930 international arrivals, surging 75.3% year-on-year. For the seven-month period, international visitors totalled 4.5 million, up 48% year-on-year.
Welcoming the crew on the morning of July 30, Dang Dong Ha, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasised that the film offers a valuable opportunity to promote Quang Tri’s tourism potential, particularly to Indian visitors, but also to a broader global audience.
With a proactive and creative approach, Hanoi is positioning itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations where tradition meets innovation, and every visit offers a blend of the familiar and the new.
Fostering linkage among regional localities and restructuring the tourism sector towards professionalism are among measures to boost the “smokeless industry” of the Mekong Delta.
Terrace fields in the northern mountainous province of Ha Giang (Photo: VNA) 
