Tourism sector forecast to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels
The Vietnamese tourism industry is on the road to recovery back to pre-pandemic levels, with favourable conditions for tourists in terms of destination access, simplified immigration procedures, and extended visa duration, according to Vietnam Report JSC.
Tourists visit Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) ไ- The Vietnamese tourism industry is on the road to recovery back to pre-pandemic levels, with favourable conditions for tourists in terms of destination access, simplified immigration procedures, and extended visa duration, according to Vietnam Report JSC.
Statistics from the General Statistics Office (GSO) show that nearly 597,000 foreigners visited Vietnam in November, up 23.2% month-on-month, bringing the total number of international tourists to the country in the first 11 months of this year to over 2.95 million.
The total figure was 21.1 times more than the same period last year, but down 81.9% compared to 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.
During the period, the country served 96.3 million domestic tourist arrivals, higher than the total for 2019.
A survey of travel agents and transport firms conducted by Vietnam Report in October and November 2022 showed that 60% of respondents said the current number of tourists they are serving is below the pre-pandemic levels, but 44.4% expect to meet and exceed the pre-pandemic levels by the second quarter of 2023.
The survey also pointed out three main challenges facing the sector: low quality of human resources, lack of labour supply, and lack of tourism products.
Foreigners visit Hoi An ancient city in Quang Nam province (Photo: VNA)
Fixing these limitations requires joint efforts by the Government and localities to promote the development of transport infrastructure, accommodation facilities, amusement parks, and new tourism products, while stepping up promotions of tourism services and products associated with sustainable development and nature conservation.
Vu Dang Vinh, Vietnam Report General Director, said the COVID-19 pandemic has brought the tourism industry back to where it started. The Party and State's achievements in controlling the pandemic along with reopening at the right time have helped the industry recover.
However, the path to return to the miraculous growth of many years ago remains bumpy. The recovery will only be possible when international tourism resumes fully, he stressed.
The Vietnam Report survey shows that policy priorities need to be adjusted. It will also be necessary to restore confidence among tourists; strengthen support for tourism enterprises; promote domestic tourism and assist the safe return of international holidaymakers; provide clear information for tourists and businesses to minimise uncertainties; develop response measures to maintain the sector’s capacity and address resources shortages; and strengthen cooperation within and between countries./.
International searches for tourism in Vietnam remain high, according to the Vietnam National Tourism Administration under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
Cyclo is a three-wheel bicycle taxi that appeared in Vietnam in the early 20th century. A double seat is supported by the two front wheels with the driver sitting behind.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on December 21 asked ministries, agencies, localities and businesses to take into consideration the diversity of the products, markets and supply chains while seeking ways to boost the tourism sector.
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.
Tourists visit Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province (Photo: VNA)
Foreigners visit Hoi An ancient city in Quang Nam province (Photo: VNA)
