HCM City welcomes 7 millionth foreign visitor in 2018
Ho Chi Minh City welcomed the seven millionth international visitor to the southern economic hub during the year at Tan Son Nhat International Airport on December 10.
Foreign tourists at Ho Chi Minh City (Source: VNA)
HCMCity (VNA) – Ho Chi Minh City welcomed the seven millionthinternational visitor to the southern economic hub during the year at Tan SonNhat International Airport on December 10.
The seven millionth international guest is Tissot Jean Claude, who was onflight VN10 by the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines from Paris to HCMCity.
Speaking at the ceremony Le Thanh Liem, Vice Chairman of the HCM City People’sCommittee, highlighted the municipal tourism sector’s annual growth at about 15percent in recent years.
HCM City is accelerating the implementation of its tourism developmentstrategy, focusing on sustainable and green tourism in connection withenvironmental protection, and technology application for tourism development.
The city set a target to expand tourism growth of between 15-20 percent and serveabout 8-8.5 million foreign holiday makers in 2019, he added.
Jointly organised by the municipal Department of Tourism and Vietnam Airlines,the ceremony is one of activities to celebrate the 320th anniversary of thefoundation of Ho Chi Minh City.
On the occasion, the municipal Department of Tourism launched a tourismpromotion programme, and introduced eight special city tours that to be held inthe time to come.
Todraw more tourists to the city, the local tourism sector has paid attention to improvingthe quality of human resources in the field, enhancing tourism promotionactivities, promoting technology application in tourism management and developingnew products.-VNA
Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam chaired a tourism forum in Hanoi on December 6 to discuss major measures to develop high-quality and sustainable tourism in Vietnam by 2030.
To promote rural tourism, it is necessary to pay attention to community benefits and cultural and environmental protection, said Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has approved a project to restructure the tourism sector to turn it into a spearhead economic sector for the country and make Vietnam one of the nations with the most developed tourism sector in Southeast Asia.
The Embassy of Vietnam in the United States attended the seventh Winternational Embassy Showcase on December 6 to promote Vietnamese culture, traditional handicrafts, and cuisine to local visitors.
Experts gathered at a recent conference in the northwestern mountainous province of Dien Bien, discussing measures to promote local trade, investment and tourism.
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 at Ho Chi Minh City (Source: VNA) 
