Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam is striving toachieve its goal of welcoming 17.5 – 18 million international tourists by theend of 2019, a year earlier than scheduled.
The tourism sector aims to greet 17 – 20 millionforeign visitors by 2020 as targeted under the Poliburo’s Resolution No.8-NQ/TWon developing tourism into a spearhead economy.
It also looks to serve 85 million domestictourists in 2019 and gross nearly 700 trillion VND (30.1 billion USD) inrevenue.
According to the Vietnam NationalAdministration of Tourism (VNAT), the number of international visitors toVietnam in the first six months of 2019 was estimated at 8.5 million, up 7.5percent compared to the same period last year.
In January-June, the tourism sector grossed338.2 trillion VND (14.5 billion USD) in revenue, a year-on-year rise of 8.4percent.
Vu Quoc Tri, Chief of the VNAT’s Office, saidAsian tourists made up 77 percent of total international visitors to Vietnam,up 8.2 percent year-on-year.
Thailand reported remarkable growth with 245,000holidaymakers visiting Vietnam, up 45.5 percent, and was among the top 10markets for visitor numbers.
Exchanges of visitors between Vietnam andThailand have become stronger in recent years thanks to the launch of manydirect flights between the two countries.
The number of visitors to Vietnam from Indonesiarose by 22 percent and the Philippines 20.4 percent.
In the remainder of 2019, the tourism sector willcontinue promoting tourism in key markets such as China, the Republic of Korea,the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Japan, and Europe whilemaintaining growth in other markets like Taiwan, Hong Kong, Russia, the US, WesternEurope and Australia.-VNA
A workshop on drawing high-spending and long-stay tourists took place in Hanoi on May 2 as part of the two-day Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019, with participants suggesting a range of measures to develop the sector.
Ha Long Bay in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh is one of the most popular attractions place in Asia, according to the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post (SCMP).
Vietnam is one of the five most favourite places of Japanese tourists this summer, according to a survey announced by the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) in early July.
The Vietnam Tourism Association and its chapters in the northern mountainous provinces of Phu Tho, Hoa Binh and Son La provinces are scheduled to launch an anti-plastic-waste action programme from July 15 to 17.
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.
Foreign tourists visit Vietnam (Photo: VNA) 
