Vietnamese tourism is expected to "speed up" in 2024

Topic: Interesting journey

Reasons why traveling to Vietnam is popular with foreign tourists

Vietnam may not boast globally iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls, the Sydney Opera House, or the Grand Canyon, but it is truly a hidden gem that reveals its splendor only to those who visit. Recognized by UNESCO for its breathtaking beauty and vibrant resilience, Vietnam is home to sites such as Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang caves, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the Cham Islands. These stunning landscapes are among the reasons why Vietnam's tourism is renowned worldwide.

These destinations astonish visitors with their unique charm. Da Lat, for example, is a standout. The French-style villas, nestled amidst whispering pine forests and vibrant strawberry fields, give the impression of a European city. The distinct and picturesque scenery of Vietnam promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone who sets foot here.

Home to world-famous beautiful beaches

Vietnam proudly boasts over 3,400 kilometers of coastline, adorned with luxurious resorts on pristine sandy beaches. Hidden coves, accessible only by small boat, and unspoiled islands add to its allure, making Vietnam one of the best beach destinations in the region.

The extensive coastline grants Vietnam an abundance of beautiful beaches, many of which are recognized among the world's finest. Nha Trang's beaches are perfect for indulging in a variety of water sports. Da Nang's shores are renowned for romantic resorts, ideal for couples and families seeking a serene getaway. Meanwhile, Mui Ne offers a more rustic charm, with its untouched beaches and delightful, enticing dinners that provide a true sense of coastal tranquility.

A cheap travel destination

There are many unique traditional festivals

Thanks to its long traditional cultural history and the influence of Buddhism, Vietnam has many unique festivals taking place throughout the year. The most important holiday for Vietnamese people is Lunar New Year - this is the time for everyone in the family to gather and express their feelings to their grandparents and ancestors. And on this day, people in the North will wrap banh chung, and people in the south will wrap banh tet with the hope of a good new year.

In Hai Phong, the most famous is probably the buffalo fighting festival, the winning buffalo in the festival will be sacrificed to the village god. Vietnam's National Day is September 2, foreign tourists coming to Vietnam on this occasion will admire parades in many places across the country. The entire street on this day will be hung with the national flag. In particular, visitors can enjoy fireworks displays at night in big cities. When visiting Vietnam during the festive seasons, you should book a room in advance to avoid running out of space.

The people are friendly and hospitable

Vietnam boasts a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and a strong Buddhist influence, resulting in a plethora of vibrant festivals throughout the year. The most significant holiday for Vietnamese people is Tet Nguyen Dan, or the Lunar New Year. This is a time for family reunions and paying respects to ancestors. In the North, families make Banh Chung, while in the South, they prepare Banh Tet, both symbolizing hopes for a prosperous new year.

In Hai Phong, the most famous festival is the buffalo fighting festival, where the victorious buffalo is offered in a ritual to the village deity. Vietnam's National Day, celebrated on September 2nd, is marked by grand parades and celebrations across the country. Streets are adorned with national flags, and visitors can enjoy spectacular fireworks displays in major cities.

Traveling to Vietnam during festival seasons is an enriching experience, but be sure to book accommodations in advance to secure your stay.

Diverse street food

Vietnam is renowned on the global travel map for its diverse array of street foods. Walking through the streets of major cities, visitors will easily come across numerous signs for humble pho eateries. Pho, a simple yet flavorful soup consisting of rice noodles, herbs, chicken or beef, may be Vietnam’s most famous dish. However, when in Hanoi, bun cha is a must-try. The sight and aroma of marinated pork sizzling on the grill from around noon will be impossible to resist.

Banh mi, another quintessential Vietnamese street food, is equally beloved. Typically enjoyed with butter, pate, fried eggs, cheese, cold cuts, sausage, dried beef, cilantro, and chili sauce, banh mi is a versatile delight. Each region in Vietnam also boasts its own specialty dishes, such as bun bo Hue from Hue, mi Quang from Quang Nam, banh da cua from Hai Phong, and cao lau from Hoi An.

Bustling markets with cultural diversity

In addition to its ecological attractions, Vietnam's markets are a significant draw for tourists. Whenever people explore a new region, they often make it a point to visit the local markets. Each area has its unique market styles. You can visit floating markets in the Mekong Delta, weekly markets in the mountainous Northwest, and large markets in central cities. International visitors need not worry about finding quintessentially Vietnamese goods. These markets showcase and sell a wide variety of items, including food, drinks, essentials, and clothing.

Not only can you savor regional specialties at these markets, but you can also gain insight into the local culture through the trading practices of the residents. Shopping for souvenirs becomes a breeze with the diverse range of products available at market stalls. However, prices at these markets can vary widely, so it's wise to compare prices to avoid overpaying.

Long History

Vietnam boasts a rich history that spans thousands of years, etched into every historical monument, brick, stone, and statue. These architectural marvels are testaments to Vietnam's extensive historical legacy and are a significant draw for tourists worldwide who come to admire and explore.

Vietnam's long-standing history is also reflected in its traditional arts, passed down through generations. In Hue, for instance, enjoying traditional Hue singing on the Perfume River has long been an indispensable experience for visitors to this region of poetic beauty. In Hanoi, while tourists used to primarily watch water puppet shows at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, recent years have seen a flourishing variety of traditional performances offered by local theaters, artists, and artisans. These performances include ca tru (a genre of chamber music), hat xam (a traditional folk art form), and more. In the Central Highlands, the "gong culture tours" have also garnered significant interest from both domestic and international visitors over the years.

Diverse nature

One of the main reasons Vietnam attracts a large number of tourists is its diverse natural landscapes. From mountains and beaches to plains and valleys, Vietnam offers breathtaking sceneries that captivate visitors. The country's ecosystems are rich with magnificent natural landscapes, including forests, coral reefs, seagrass beds, wetlands, and a wide variety of flora and fauna, all of which significantly enhance its tourism appeal.

A standout feature of Vietnam's biodiversity is the high level of endemism among species and the presence of rare genetic resources. Tourists have the opportunity to explore and admire numerous famous destinations with unique topographies and endemic wildlife. The diversity of plant life is equally remarkable, particularly evident during the blooming seasons in the Northwest region.

Vietnam's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for unforgettable travel experiences, from trekking through lush jungles and exploring vibrant underwater worlds to witnessing the spectacular blooms of regional flowers. This diversity not only enriches the country's natural heritage but also offers an array of experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Many places to live

Da Nang combines the elements that attract both domestic and international tourists to explore and experience, and there is a common sentiment among most visitors: they often find themselves wanting to make this place their home, never wanting to leave. They are captivated by the enchanting beauty of Da Nang, the relaxed atmosphere that isn't too bustling, the simple yet modern lifestyle. Notably, the famous landmarks and unique Central Vietnamese cuisine contribute to Da Nang's appeal. This city seems to be an ideal place for many foreigners, with numerous cafes (featuring fixed internet), golden beaches, high-rise apartment complexes, and stunning landscapes as it is surrounded by mountains on three sides.

To the south of Da Nang, there are two world-class golf courses. Further south lies the colorful city of Hoi An, which may be too crowded for some retirees but remains lively with many restaurants, cafes, proximity to various beaches, and numerous tailor shops – if reasonably priced custom tailoring appeals to you.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a captivating place if you enjoy a bustling urban center rich in history. The capital, Hanoi, located in northern Vietnam, isn't as warm as Ho Chi Minh City. Some smaller cities that foreigners might consider include Da Lat, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, and Phu Quoc.

Da Nang: With its mild climate, Da Nang is not only an ideal place for tourism but also for permanent residence. Attractions like Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, and Son Tra Peninsula offer breathtaking natural experiences. Additionally, the modern infrastructure and advanced healthcare and education services make Da Nang a compelling choice for foreigners.
Hoi An: Just a short distance from Da Nang, Hoi An is a charming and picturesque ancient town. Though it can be crowded, Hoi An offers a tranquil atmosphere with its old streets, ancient houses, and romantic Thu Bon River. The town is also famous for its culinary specialties and quick, quality tailoring services.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): For those who love vibrant city life rich in cultural diversity, Ho Chi Minh City is the top choice. This city is not only Vietnam's economic hub but also a place with numerous historical and cultural landmarks. District 1 and District 2 are particularly attractive to expatriates due to their development and diverse services.
Hanoi: Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, with its long history and rich culture, provides visitors and residents a profound insight into Vietnamese traditions. Although it isn't as warm as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi boasts beautiful autumn and spring seasons, ideal for those who prefer cooler climates.