Specifically, on the basis of annual growth from 2009 to 2016, Hanoi is forecast to achieve a growth rate of 16.4%, ranking 7
th on the list. The city is highly appreciated for the simple and charming beauty of landscapes, rice-based cuisine, and the quality and affordable price of services.
Together with Hanoi, Jakarta (Indonesia)’s entrance into the Top 10 list at 5th place points to Southeast Asia’s rising significance as a key travel hub.
According to the survey, the tourism industry in Asia Pacific continues to flourish with USD91.16 billion of tourism turnover in 2016, to outpace Europe (USD74.74 billion) and North Africa (USD55.02 billion).
Ranking the world’s 132 top destination cities, the Index analyses visitor volume and spending in 2016 and provides a forecast for annual growth, insights on the fastest growing destination cities, and a deeper understanding of why people travel and how they spend around the world.
Eric Schneider, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific, Mastercard Advisors, said, “As the fastest growing region for international tourism, Asia Pacific’s travel sector will no doubt continue to serve as a key source of in-market economic growth and development. The rise of leisure and business travel across the region presents a vital imperative for governments and private stakeholders to invest in smart networks and infrastructures that provide seamless experiences for residents, tourists and business travellers”.
The eight remaining cities which made the list are Osaka (Japan), Chengdu (China), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Abu Dhabi (UAE), Tokyo (Japan), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Lima (Peru) and Taipei (China)./.