VNA reported the data by the municipal Department of Tourism that total revenue from tourism activities in the period was estimated at over 55.38 trillion VND (2.17 billion USD), marking a year-on-year increase of 22.8%.
Hanoi served over 14 million holidaymakers in the first half of 2024, including 3.14 international tourists, up 13.7% and 52.6% compared to the same period last year, respectively.
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| International tourists visit Hanoi (Source: VNA) |
Last month, the average hotel room occupancy rate reached 66%, 1.3% higher than the figure in May, and up 0.1% compared to the same period in 2023.
Iran hosts first tourism roadshow in Vietnam
According to VOV, Iran hosted a tourism roadshow and a workshop in Hanoi on July 1 to boost tourism cooperation and spur the development of the tourism industry of the two countries.
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| Travel firms attend Iran's Tourism Roadshow – Southeast Asia 2024 plus workshop on Vietnam - Iran tourism cooperation in Hanoi on July 1 (Source: VOV) |
Iran’s Tourism Roadshow – Southeast Asia 2024 introduced the most authentic images of the Islamic republic to Vietnamese travel firms, helping them understand more about Iran and further promote cultural and tourism relations between Iran and Vietnam.
According to Ali Akbar Nazari, Ambassador of Iran to Vietnam, ancient historical relics, world heritage sites registered by UNESCO, and beautiful natural landscapes of Iran are all tourist destinations attractive to international travelers, including Vietnamese tourists.
He said both Iran and Vietnam boast great potential and opportunities to increase tourism cooperation as they have beautiful natural landscapes imbued with distinct cultural identities.
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| Representatives of travel firms of Vietnam and Iran exchange views on the possibility of increasing cooperation at the event (Source: VOV) |
Taking the floor, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong recalled that his ministry successfully organized a series of activities and events in August 2023 introducing the image of the country, people, and cultural tourism of Vietnam in Iran, thereby bringing the two countries’ peoples closer together, understanding each other and loving each other.
Cuong revealed the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of Iran are considering the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of tourism in the near future, creating favourable conditions for the two sides to strongly promote tourism cooperation, commensurate with their potential, needs and aspirations.
At the same time, he said the Government of Vietnam is actively developing the local Halal industry, aimed at developing Halal tourism and attracting tourists from the Middle East market in general and Iran in particular.
Iran’s Tourism Roadshow – Southeast Asia 2024 was held by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of Iran in collaboration with the Embassy of Iran in Hanoi.
Many Vietnamese travellers prefer long domestic trip this summer
Ho Chi Minh City is among the top leisure destinations that Vietnamese travellers plan to visit this summer holidays, reported VNA.
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| A view in Cao Bang province. About 46% of Vietnamese travellers are looking at a long domestic trip and 35% want to take a long international trip this year. (Photo courtesy of Booking.com) |
Additionally, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Hoi An, Hanoi, Vung Tau, Phu Quoc, Ha Long, and Quy Nhon are also listed as the top 10 most-wanted destinations.
A new report from Booking.com revealed that 46% of Vietnamese travellers are considering a long domestic trip and 35% want to take a long international trip this year.
Every year, summer uncovers intriguing travel patterns about Vietnamese tourists. This year, summer promises to be a season of exploration and rejuvenation for travellers who are seizing this opportunity to travel either domestically or venturing overseas, the report says.
According to Booking.com, the mountains remain irresistible for Vietnamese looking to escape the summer heat with 57% of Vietnamese travellers saying that they would like to take a nature trip this year followed by a cultural experience, at about 48%, beaches at 45%, and city breaks at 36%.
While domestic travel continues to shine, Vietnamese are also exploring short and long-haul destinations within Asia and beyond.
Bangkok’s proximity to Vietnam, coupled with its cultural contrasts and culinary delights, leads the list of most searched international destinations this summer. Other Asian destinations like Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul and Kuala Lumpur are also high on the summer travel wish list of Vietnamese.
Moreover, Vietnamese travellers have also set their sights on long-haul destinations for this summer with Paris and London ranking in fourth and eighth on the list. The dynamic Australian metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne are also drawing significant interest.
Booking.com data reveals distinct travel preferences among different demographics. Solo travellers favour city breaks, families tend to seek nature escapes, groups gravitate towards scenic getaways while couples enjoy a mix of bustling metros and serene retreats. Booking.com shares insights into what different Vietnamese travellers are looking for in their holidays.
Varun Grover, country head, Vietnam, at Booking.com, said: “Summer has always been a peak travel season, but in recent years this is witnessing a significant shift in how Vietnamese approach it. While Vietnamese travellers are exploring both domestic and overseas destinations, we are seeing travellers gravitating towards culturally significant or leisure-oriented destinations with a growing desire for immersive experiences.”
Destinations to escape the crowd
To help people who want to spend a holiday in a quiet place, Booking.com points out a list of destinations.
With nearly half, 44%, of Vietnamese holidaymakers motivated to travel to places they haven’t been before, the company shares a list of alternative destinations worth exploring beyond the usual tourist hotspots, perfect for an unforgettable summer escape in Vietnam.
The destinations include Xuyen Moc, Bai Tu Long Bay, Cao Bang, Mui Ne, and Gia Lai.
Located in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, Xuyen Moc boasts pristine beaches with soft, golden sand ideal for relaxing in the summer sun. Explore untouched coral reefs teeming with marine life or hike along scenic trails offering breathtaking coastal views.
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| Tourists to a cave in Ha Long. (Source: baoquangninh.com.vn) |
Beyond the iconic Ha Long Bay, lies Bai Tu Long Bay, a majestic bay adorned with hundreds of islets and caves. This stunning natural wonder has been recognised as the 38th ASEAN Heritage Park for its ecological integrity, naturalness and high conservation values. Kayak through towering rock formations, discover hidden caves and immerse in the bay’s pristine beauty without having to worry about the crowds.
Cao Bang is the original place of Vietnam's revolution. With many historic sites and picturesque landscapes, the province is an ideal destination for this summer. Navigate the legendary Ban Gioc Waterfalls, a scenic motorbike route offering stunning rice paddies and a memorable experience of the local culture. Explore the Nguom Ngao Cave or discover the historical relics of the Pac Bo Cave, a former revolutionary base.
Gia Lai is an excellent alternative for those planning a holiday this summer but looking to escape the crowds. This destination is known for its untouched mountainous landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls like Hang En cascading through the lush jungles and unique cuisine. Explore the Kon Tum Communal House, a remarkable architectural feat showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Hike through the coffee plantations or visit a village of ethnic minority and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Gia Lai locals./.