Vietnam is emerging as an appealing destination for international tourists

Vietnam is quickly becoming a popular destination for international tourists. After three years of economic recovery, the number of international visitors to Vietnam almost doubled in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, the average spending of international tourists increased by 13%.

Mr. Nguyen Huy Hoang, CEO of Klook Vietnam, stated that Vietnam's international tourist segment has shown strong recovery, with high demand and increased average spending, indicating tourists' willingness to spend more on experiences and activities in the country.

During the same period, Vietnam welcomed over 4.6 million international visitors, an increase of 1.7 times compared to the first quarter of 2023 and 1.9 times compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels. The top five markets for international tourism to Vietnam include South Korea, Taiwan (China), Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. Notably, there has been significant growth in emerging markets, with Indonesian tourists leading the way with demand for travel to Vietnam eight times higher than the previous year.

Popular destinations for international tourists in Vietnam include Da Nang, Ha Long, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and Hanoi. Phu Quoc experienced the most significant growth, with a demand surge of 3.5 times compared to the same period in 2023, followed by Hanoi with a growth of nearly three times.

International tourists are drawn to attractions and tours such as Sun World theme parks, VinWonders parks, Vinpearl Safari, Hoi An Memories Show, and Hoi An Impression Theme Park. Day tours to Ba Na Hills from Da Nang, day tours to Ha Long Bay on the 5-star Cozy Bay Premium cruise, and day tours to Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City have also been popular among international tourists.

While Vietnam is attracting international tourists, Vietnamese people prefer to explore new places in Southeast Asia. Outbound travel among Vietnamese tourists in the first quarter of 2024 saw double-digit growth, with Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia as the most popular destinations.

Looking ahead, the tourism industry in Vietnam shows promising development potential, with 41% of Vietnamese consumers planning leisure travel in the next six months. The top three destinations in the next 12 months are Australia, mainland China, and South Korea. Additionally, Vietnamese tourists seek unique experiences, with 42% wanting to travel to a destination for a specific event, indicating a strong preference for cultural activities, festivals, and music.

Source: People's Public Security Newspaper