Vietnam welcomes over 4.7 million int’l arrivals in H1 (Source: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA)𒁏 – Foreign visitors to Vietnam numbered over 4.7 million in the first six months of this year, a year-on-year increase of 21.3 percent.
The information was heard at a press conference jointly organised by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) and the Vietnam Tourism Association in Hanoi on July 1.
The number of tourists from the Northeast Asian region skyrocketed in the period, with Hong Kong up 128.3 percent, China 47.9 percent, the Republic of Korea 34 percent, Taiwan 15.8 percent and Japan 12.4 percent.
Holidaymakers from ASEAN, including Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, still enjoyed a double-digit growth.
Especially, a surge was seen in the number of visitors from the five Western European countries enjoying visa exemption, with Italy up 30.1 percent, the UK 24.6 percent, Spain 22.7 percent, German 17.1 percent, and France 13.8 percent.
The local tourism sector also served some 32.4 million domestic travellers in the first half of 2016. Total revenue for the period was estimated at 200.3 trillion VND (9.1 billion USD), up 22.1 percent year-on-year.
Speaking at the event, VNAT General Director Nguyen Van Tuan said relevant agencies and local authorities should work closely in managing and monitoring service quality, especially during the peak season, international travel activity and adventurous travel services.
This year, Vietnam sets a goal of serving 8.5 million foreign and 60 million domestic travellers, which are expected to bring in 370 trillion VND for the sector.
The country is considered one of the fastest growing tourism markets in Southeast Asia, driven by the entrance of international hoteliers, an improved visa policy and investment in key infrastructure.-VNA
The northern province of Quang Ninh will focus on developing tourism as a key economic sector, creating a driving force for the locality’s rapid and substantial socio-economic growth.
A year-on-year surge of 20.1 percent was reported in the number of tourists from West European countries visiting Vietnam in the first five months of this year.
Hanoi needs a long term-plan to tackle tourist scams – an effort that will require the entire society’s involvement, a local tourism management official said.
More than two million international visitors have entered Hanoi so far this year, a 34 percent surge year-on-year, according to the municipal Department of 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.
Vietnam welcomes over 4.7 million int’l arrivals in H1 (Source: VNA)
