Meeting of GMS Southern Tourism Corridor opens in Can Tho
Multilateral connectivity and cooperation in the formation of a high-quality tourist route was highlighted at the sixth Meeting of GMS Southern Tourism Corridor that took place in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta city of Can Tho on August 14.
Can Tho (VNA) – Multilateral connectivityand cooperation in the formation of a high-quality tourist route washighlighted at the sixth Meeting of GMS Southern Tourism Corridor that tookplace in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta city of Can Tho on August 14.
The route is expected to offer interesting experiences to those using servicesjointly launched by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar.
Representatives from the four countries and the Mekong Tourism CoordinatingOffice (MTCO) sought measures to turn the transport corridor into the southerntourism corridor.
Ha Van Sieu, deputy head of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism,said the southern corridor is a crucial transport route of the Greater MekongSub-region (GMS).
This is one of the 11 major tourist routes of GMS countries, he said, addingthat since 2015, the above-said four nations have partnered in tourism productdevelopment and promotion and supported one another in improving tourismdevelopment capacity.
Thong Rathasak, Deputy Director General at the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, saidtourism cooperation between Cambodia and other countries in the southerntourism corridor has been expanded over the past time.
Cambodia is implementing tourism cooperation projects with Vietnam, he said,adding that national flag carriers of the two countries have signed amemorandum of understanding on collaboration in operation.
A representative of the MTCO stressed thesignificance of IT applications and social networks in tourism promotion amidstthe Fourth Industrial Revolution.-VNA
Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) leaders adopted a joint declaration of their fifth summit in Bangkok , Thailand on December 20, committing to the inclusive and sustainable development of the subregion, especially the effective management and use of Mekong River water resources.
Tourism officials from Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam have agreed to build a sea tourism package programme connecting tourism sites in the southern ends of the three countries.
The Vietnamese Government is committed to strongly supporting the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) Economic Cooperation Programme initiative, said Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung.
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.
Delegates to the meeting (Photo: VNA) 
