VIETNAM BECOMES THE FASTEST-DEVELOPING TOURISM DESTINATION IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Breathtaking natural beauty with postcard-perfect beaches, like Kem Beach – Phu Quoc, are the key reasons travelers fall in love with Vietnam. PHOTO: FATEL BELEK

HCMC – With an impressive 98% tourism recovery rate post Covid, Vietnam has outpaced both Thailand (87.5%) and Singapore (86%) to become the fastest-developing tourism destination in Southeast Asia, according to Bloomberg.

In January 2025 alone, Vietnam reported over 2.1 million international arrivals, marking a 36.9% increase compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Footprint Travel. Visitor numbers from Russia soared by more than 116%, while major European markets—including the UK, France, Germany, and Italy—recorded robust double-digit growth.

In 2024, the country welcomed 17.5 million international arrivals, surpassing Singapore to become the third most-visited country in the region, behind Thailand (35 million) and Malaysia (25 million).

Phu Quoc, Halong and Danang are three destinations that have contributed significantly to these impressive results. Phu Quoc alone received nearly 2.1 million foreign tourists in January, a nearly 37% year-on-year increase. Danang reported a 42.1% rise in international arrivals in the first quarter of 2025, while Halong continues to draw strong visitor interest thanks to its globally recognized natural wonders.

All three destinations are renowned for their beaches. From the tranquil white sands of Kem and Sao beaches in Phu Quoc to the vibrant atmosphere of My Khe Beach in Danang, Vietnam’s coastline has become a defining attraction. In contrast, Halong captivates with its UNESCO-recognized heritage bay, home to thousands of majestic limestone islets.

Beyond natural beauty, what sets these destinations apart is their fully integrated tourism infrastructure. Entertainment complexes, luxury resorts, and global hospitality brands are transforming these scenic spots into comprehensive travel hubs.

Vietnam’s strong growth in the tourism sector is not solely due to its scenic offerings. Flexible visa policies and an expanding flight network are playing a crucial role in making the country more accessible. A streamlined e-visa system, along with selective visa waivers for citizens of numerous countries, is helping position Vietnam as a friendly and easy-to-reach destination for international travelers.

Source: The Saigon Times