3 reasons why Vietnam is becoming Asia's new tourist "hot spot"

Train takes tourists from Sa Pa town ( Lao Cai ) to the top of Fanxipang *- Photo: traveloffpath.com*

In the article titled : "3 Reasons This Country Is Becoming Asia's New Tourism Hotspot ", Travel Off Path commented: Vietnam is famous for its breathtaking scenery, a vast coastline stretching an incredible 3,260 km and dynamic cities.

According to the article, when people think of Southeast Asia travel, Thailand is one of the first destinations that comes to mind. But if you want to avoid the crowds in Thailand, there is an emerging travel destination in the region that is ripe for exploration – Vietnam.

Travel Off Path cited a Google Destination Insights report saying that from March to June 2023, Vietnam was the 7th most searched destination in the world and the only country in Southeast Asia to make the list of top 20 destinations.

As such, Vietnam is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia and here are three reasons why.

Adjusting visa requirements

From August 15, visiting Vietnam will be easier than ever for citizens of many countries.

The Vietnamese government has extended visa exemption from 15 days to 45 days for passport holders from Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the UK.

The validity of the e-visa for entry is also extended from 30 days to 3 months.

In addition, 80 other countries, including the United States, are now eligible to enter Vietnam with an electronic visa (e-visa).

From 15 August, e-visas will also allow multiple entries into Vietnam, instead of the current system where each e-visa is only eligible for a single entry. This will allow you to come and go as you please, and travel to and from Vietnam as part of a wider Asian tour.

Vietnam visa application is easy, simple and affordable.

Well preserved natural beauty

According to the article, Vietnam is an emerging tourist destination and does not yet have a large number of tourists like many other Southeast Asian countries experience, so many of Vietnam's natural landscapes are still very well preserved.

The country has a wide range of naturally beautiful places. In the north of the country, you can explore rugged mountains. In central and southern Vietnam, you will find incredible beaches.

The Vietnamese countryside is lush and green, and the Vietnamese government has managed to preserve their cultural heritage wonderfully.

Cities are also attracting tourists. From the world-famous ancient charm of Hanoi to the little-discovered Ha Long City, Vietnam has all the charms to become Asia's new tourist hotspot.

Furthermore, for those on a tight budget, both Thailand and Vietnam are budget destinations for budget travelers. But Vietnam is considered one of the best options in Southeast Asia. Accommodation, food, and transportation in Vietnam are cheaper than Thailand, especially if you go to the rural areas of the country.

Hien Nhon Gate (east of Hue Imperial Citadel) - is the most beautiful gate among 13 gates in Hue Citadel due to its many intricately carved patterns and motifs - *Photo: traveloffpath.com*

Focus on tourism growth

The Vietnamese government is focusing on encouraging more tourists to visit and increasing tourist numbers in 2023. Initially, Vietnam aimed to attract 8 million tourists but predicted that the number would increase to 10 million by the end of this year.

According to the article, social media trends have a huge influence on tourists' choices and Vietnam is currently being heavily promoted on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

To meet tourist demand, the number of accommodations in Vietnam's largest cities is increasing and over the past 3 months (May-July), the number of international visitors staying has increased significantly.

Travel Off Path notes that the Vietnamese government wants to turn the country into Asia’s new tourist hotspot and so far, the plan is moving forward, so now is the perfect time to explore this incredibly beautiful country.

*In early March, Travel Off Path listed Vietnam as one of the top 5 international destinations this summer.

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