Over 4.5 million foreigners are estimated to visit Vietnam in the first three months of this year, a rise of 7 percent year on year, the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) said on March 29.
Hanoi (VNA) – Over 4.5 million foreigners are estimated to visit Vietnam in the firstthree months of this year, a rise of 7 percent year on year, the Vietnam NationalAdministration of Tourism (VNAT) said on March 29.
The foreign visitors coming by air and by road rose 4.5 percent and 26.2percent year on year, while those entering by sea declined by 37.4 percent.
The visitors hailing from Asian markets recorded an increase of 7.5 percentyear on year, said the VNAT under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
Up to 1.2 million Chinese people spent holidays in Vietnam in the reviewedtime, accounting to 37.8 percent of the total Asian visitors. The figure,however, showed a drop of 5.6 percent from the same time last year.
Thai tourists recorded the highest rise with 49.3 percent, followed by thosefrom Taiwan (China), 26 percent; the Republic of Korea, 24.1 percent; Malaysia11.1 percent; and Japan, 8.3 percent.
Visitors from Europe and the Americas posted rises of 6.1 percent and 6.3percent from the same time last year.
During the reviewed period, 24.9 million local tourists were served.
Revenue from tourismactivities totaled 175 trillion VND, rising by 8.35 percent from theJanuary-March period in 2018.-VNA
Vietnam is moving towards a green tourism development, which is associated with environmental protection and promotion of traditional cultural values, according to Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Quang Tung.
Themed “Green Tourism”, the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2019 affords travel agencies a chance to discuss future business opportunities as well as introduce their products to the public.
This year, the Mekong Delta region will focus on enhancing tourism promotion and connectivity in the north, central and Central Highlands regions, as well as foreign markets in Southeast and East Asia.
The Vietnam International Tourism Mart is one of the biggest fairs for the local tourism industry, offering opportunities for trade and market expansion.
A conference held on March 28 in the framework of the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) sought solutions to develop tourism in the context of Industry 4.0.
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 visitors to Hanoi (Photo: VNA) 
