2017 is considered a successful year for the tourism sector, with 13 million international tourists arriving in Vietnam, up by three million against the previous year.
Vietnam welcomed 13 million international tourists in 2017, up by three million against the previous year (Photo VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) – 2017 is considered a successful year for the tourismsector, with 13 million international tourists arriving in Vietnam, up by threemillion against the previous year.
According to Director General of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism(VNAT) Nguyen Van Tuan, 2017 was the first year that the sector implemented PolitburoResolution 8-NQ/TW on developing tourism into a spearhead economic sector.
In the first half of 2017, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation(UNWTO) revealed the world’s top 10 fastest-growing tourist destinations, withVietnam in sixth position. The Southeast Asian country also led Asia-Pacificwith growth of 31.2 percent.
The UNWTO described Vietnam as not a stranger to tourism with long-standinghistory, culture, rich cuisine and natural attractions.
Vietnam also received international tourism awards in 2017. Notably, theInterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort set a record as it was honoured asthe World’s Leading Luxury Resort for the fourth consecutive year. Meanwhile,the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay was named the World’s Best New Resort bythe World Travel Awards.
Vietravel became the first Vietnamesetravel company to be honoured as the World’s Leading Group Tour Operator 2017.
The good performance during 2017 wasattributable to the sector’s concerted efforts and several policies, including atwo-year pilot e-visa programme for citizens of 40 countries launched onFebruary 1, and extension of visa exemption for certain countries. Manyprovinces have worked to improve tourism service and quality and the investmentenvironment to attract investment in the sector.
In June 2017, the National Assembly approved the Law on Tourism, which tookeffect on January 1, 2018. Decrees and circulars guiding the execution of thelaw are being finalised to drive tourism development.
Vietnam hopes to serve at least 16million international tourists in 2018 and 17-18 million foreign holidaymakersin 2020.-VNA
Twenty travel companies were fined and another had its business licence revoked for 18 months for violating administrative regulations in travel business activities in 2017, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
The northern province of Quang Ninh has made thorough preparations as host of the National Tourism Year 2018, planning at least 51 cultural, sports and tourism events.
More than 350 international and domestic experts from different sectors met to discuss sustainable tourism development at a workshop held in Long Xuyen city, An Giang on January 2.
A recent report, City Pulse 2025, by Gensler Research Institute, ranked HCM City among the world’s top cities for resident retention, placing it second globally. This underscores the city's reputation as a liveable, dynamic urban centre, an image that supports efforts to attract investors, experts, and MICE travellers.
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.
Vietnam welcomed 13 million international tourists in 2017, up by three million against the previous year (Photo VNA) 
