Vietnam expects to serve 8 million holidaymakers this year. (Photo: VNA)
Phnom Penh (VNA) – Cambodia’s e-newspaperThmeyThmey on August 14 ran an article calling Vietnam a new tourist hot spot in Southeast Asia.
The article, by Thun Senghong, cited statistics byGoogle Destination Insights showing Vietnam was the seventh most searcheddestination from March to June this year, and the only country in the region to make the top 20.
The country’s tourism strengths lie with diverselandscapes, which have helped it welcome more than 5.5 millioninternational visitors in the first half of this year, higher than the totalnumber of foreign tourists recorded the whole last year.
Vietnam expects to serve 8 million holidaymakersthis year, yet the figure is projected to exceed 10 million, the article said.
It cited Director of Rustic Hospitality Group BobbyNguyen as saying that most of the tourists hail from the Republic of Korea(RoK), China, and India.
Germany’s DW News said Vietnam’s tourism strengthscome from its relaxed visa policy as from August 15, the country will extendthe validity of tourist e-visas to 90 from 30 days, with multiple entries, andtriple the duration of visa-free stays for visitors from certain countries to45 days, according to the article.
The article also quoted some foreign experts as sayingthe visa policy is expected to give a boost to the domestic tourism industry.
Despite the rosy signs, the number of foreignarrivals has yet to meet the 2019 pre-pandemic figure of nearly 19 million, itnoted.
Experts suggested Vietnam enhance coordinationbetween ministries and agencies, upgrade its transport infrastructure and paymore attention to personnel training to improve its competitiveness in thesector, according to the article./.
The new visa policy, which will officially take effect from August 15, is expected to offer a good chance for the tourism sector of the south-central coastal province of Binh Thuan in particular and Vietnam in general, to attract more international tourits.
The north-central province of Thanh Hoa has taken a series of measures to promote digital transformation and develop a smart tourism ecosystem in a bid to become one of the key tourist destinations in the country.
The Law on amendments and supplements to a number of articles of the Law on the Exit and Entry of Vietnamese Citizens, and the Law on Foreigners’ Entry into, Exit from, Transit through, and Residence in Vietnam, which will officially take effect from August 15, is expected to generate “golden opportunities” for the tourism sector to attract international visitors, insiders have said.
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.
Vietnam expects to serve 8 million holidaymakers this year. (Photo: VNA) 
