As the peak season of tourism is approaching, the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam has bounced back significantly, especially after the implementation of the country’s new visa policy which was introduced in August.
Hoa Lo Prison attracts many international tourists. (Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn)
Hanoi (VNA)𓂃 – As the peak season of tourismis approaching, the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam has bouncedback significantly, especially after the implementation of the country’s newvisa policy which was introduced in August.
Under the amended Law on Exit andEntry of Vietnamese Citizens and the Law on Foreigners’ Entry into, Exit from,Transit through and Residence in Vietnam, thee-visa validity period is extended to 90 days from 30 days, and for multipleentries. According to the Ministry ofCulture, Sports and Tourism, since the beginning of this year, the sector haswelcomed 8 million international arrivals, reaching the set target. Thecounty expects to receive about 12 million foreign visitors this year. Tour operator Vietravel revealedthat in the first eight months of 2023, the company completed up to 80% of itsplan on welcoming international tourists, including those from the EU and theRepublic of Korea (RoK). Hanoitourist Corporation saidthat it has received many orders from previous months for this year’s peakseason. Tourists from Asian countries such as the RoK and Japan and the EU accountfor the majority. Besides, the Indian market has emerged significantly. Meanwhile, Vietlux Travelannounced that the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam by sea isexpected to soar this year. Vietnam has also experienced anupward trend in the number of visitors in Cambodia (338%), India (236%), Laos(117%), Thailand (108%), and Singapore (107%). Several programmes have beencarried out to welcome international arrivals and introduce new tourismproducts to attract new markets such as Islamic countries and meeting, incentive andconference (MICE) tourist market, among others. Hanoi authorities have also announced several plans to organise numerous events to lurevisitors in the coming time, such an autumn festival, a traditional costumefestival, a Hanoi gift festival, and night tourism products./.
To improve the effectiveness of tourism promotion, many localities concentrate on marketing programmes specific to their area, and in line with key themes.
The Hanoi Autumn Festival will be held for the first time, aiming to promote the capital city’s destinations and tourism products and attract travelers to the locality.
With its great potential for ecological agriculture and tourism, especially in riverbank areas, Hanoi has paid attention to developing riverside agri-tourism models.
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.
Hoa Lo Prison attracts many international tourists. (Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn) 
