Vietnam tourism: bright future despite difficult year
Despite a slight decrease in the number of tourists in 2015, the first time in many years, Vietnam’s non-smoke industry still has a bright future ahead, according to tourism authorities.
Hanoi (VNA)🦋 – Despite a slight decrease in the number of tourists in 2015, the first time in many years, Vietnam’s non-smoke industry still has a bright future ahead, according to tourism authorities.
The tourism sector has seen a difficult year in 2015 as the downtrend in international tourists continued from the previous year and the trend only stopped in the fourth quarter.
However, a massive investment flow into the field and the rising of new destinations brought hope to the sector.
According to a recent report from the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism on the implementation of the strategy for tourism development, tourism investment has seen a change in quality.
At present, around 1,000 projects with a combined capital of dozens of trillion VND were implemented or are being implemented, mostly in coastal and mountainous areas. Some are multi-trillion VND projects, such as Vinpearl Phu Quoc (17 trillion VND or over 755 million USD), Phu Quoc cable car line (10 trillion VND), Ba Na cable car line (6 trillion VND) and Vinpearl Quy Nhon (4.5 trillion VND).
As of 2015, the country has nearly 20,000 accommodation facilities with more than 419,280 rooms, an annual average increase of 15.87 percent, exceeding the strategy goal of 390,000 rooms.
Going against the main trend, Da Nang city continues maintaining its status as a top destination in Vietnam with a strong increase of international tourists visiting the city.
In the first 11 months of this year, the central city welcomed 1.1 million international visitors and the number is estimated to rise to 1.25 million by the end of the year, a surge of 30.8 percent from one year ago.
The municipal department of culture, sports and tourism said the city hopes to welcome 1.3 million foreign holiday makers in 2016.
Phu Quoc is another bright spot on Vietnam’s tourism map with a strong growth following the opening of some big projects and is predicted to become a major tourist destination in the near future.
The 15-day visa exemption policy for tourists from France, Germany, England, Spain, Italy and Belarus is also a contributed factor to reverse the decreasing trend.-VNA
Foreign arrivals to Vietnam reached more than 6.33 million in the first ten months of this year, a decrease of 4.1 percent year-on-year, announced the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.
Vietnam is introducing its tourism products at the 36 th World Travel Market (WTM), an annual event for the global travel industry, in London, the UK, through a string of activities.
A photo contest themed “Vietnam today” was launched in Hanoi on December 17, aiming to promote the country’s tourism in the eyes of domestic and international tourists.
The Vietnam National Administration of Vietnam (VNAT) has organised big tourism promotion campaigns in the fourth quarter in neighbouring countries to draw more international tourists.
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.
Phu Quoc island (Photo: VNA)
