Marriott 'boss' shares secret to attracting international tourists to Vietnam

After 5 months of taking on the position of Regional Vice President in charge of managing and operating the Korean, Philippine and Vietnamese markets of Marriott International, Mr. Duke Nam determined: The local factor will be an important part in helping the world's leading hotel brand attract tourists to Vietnam.

Mr. Duke Nam, Regional Vice President in charge of management and operations for the Korean, Philippines and Vietnam markets of Marriott International

* How do you view the Vietnamese market after 5 months of officially taking over the management? - Mr. Duke Nam : In terms of growth, Vietnam is one of Marriott's emerging markets with good resilience. In just two years, the number of Marriott International hotels and resorts has increased from 10 to 24. We also officially have the third JW Marriott hotel in Vietnam when we opened JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon in September. * With previous management strengths and understanding of the Chinese and Korean markets, how do you think Vietnam can benefit from these two important sources of guests? - Data always speaks for itself. The number of international visitors to Vietnam has increased by 43% compared to the same period last year, up to the end of September, reaching more than 12.7 million. Of which, Korean and Chinese visitors lead with 3.4 million and 2.7 million arrivals, respectively. Domestic tourism also reached about 95 million visitors, of which 56 million stayed overnight. Vietnam has become a popular destination for Korean and Chinese tourists due to its close geographical location, many flights to choose from and relatively affordable prices. However, the unique experiences that await tourists in Vietnam are the most important things that attract them. Vietnamese street food with dishes such as pho, banh mi and egg coffee, etc., has become extremely popular with Korean tourists. Many Korean celebrities have shared on social networks, spreading the influence of Vietnamese cuisine around the world . Popular destinations with beautiful beaches, reasonable prices, culinary experiences and luxury resorts such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang and Da Nang, etc., are also attractive to all tourists.

Vietnamese cuisine is an important factor attracting Chinese and Korean tourists. Photo: JW Marriott Hanoi

In addition, tourists from China often choose Vietnam because of its rich culture and beautiful natural landscapes. This year, the top five destinations for Chinese tourists are Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Nha Trang, Da Nang and Phu Quoc. This also reflects the popularity and attraction that is divided equally between city breaks and beach holidays. * Are there any initiatives that you want to turn into a highlight to attract tourists to Vietnam? - Currently, the majority of tourists are constantly looking for authentic experiences, imbued with local identity to connect them with the spirit of the destination and this is exactly what we are bringing into the tourists' journey, fully satisfying their wishes.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/sep-marriott-chia-se-bi-kip-hut-khach-quoc-te-den-viet-nam-185241204083636469.htm