Vietnam becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest growing tourist hub – 5 reasons to go now! |
Vietnam has become the fastest-growing tourist destination in Southeast Asia, drawing tourists from all over the world, including a notable increase in Indian tourists. Vietnam is currently the third most visited country in the region, surpassing Singapore with a record 17.5 million foreign visitors in 2024. Here are five compelling reasons to consider visiting Vietnam for your next international trip.
Booming tourism recovery and growing popularity
Vietnam has surpassed regional rivals like Thailand (87.5%) and Singapore (86%), regaining 98% of its pre-pandemic tourism revenue. In just the first two months of 2024, the nation received close to 4 million foreign visitors, a 30.2% increase over the previous year. Vietnam is expected to overtake Malaysia for the second position in Southeast Asia’s tourist rankings by the end of 2025, with an estimated 23 million visitors.
Simplified visa policies and improved access
Traveling to Vietnam is now easier than ever. In 2023, the country introduced new electronic visa policies, allowing stays of up to 90 days—three times the previous limit. Vietnam has also granted visa-free travel to many nations, such as South Korea, Japan, France, and Germany. Accessibility has been further improved by more nonstop airline alternatives, such as the first-ever direct US-Vietnam route.
Luxurious hospitality and emerging culinary scene
With the opening of internationally recognised hotel brands like Regent Phu Quoc, Capella Hanoi, and JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon, Vietnam’s hospitality sector is undergoing a rapid and significant transition. There are upcoming premium projects from Park Hyatt, The premium Collection, and Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Apart from this, Vietnam is also emerging as a a top travel destination for foodies, thanks to the 2024 Michelin Guide expansion, which has also brought attention to the country’s thriving culinary industry.
Read more: 10 INR-friendly destinations where rupees rule
A rising destination for weddings and elite travellers
Vietnam has emerged as a popular location for luxury vacations and destination weddings, particularly among Indian tourists. A notable 297% increase in Indian visitor visits above pre-pandemic levels has been attributed to the rise in high-profile weddings in Phu Quoc and Ha Long Bay. Additionally, affluent tourists seeking an alternative to Thailand and Japan are drawn to Vietnam by its affordable and luxurious accommodations.
Read more: US Green Card, H-1B, F-1 holders warned: US entry gets tougher; travel at your own risk
Ambitious growth and future developments
With the anticipated opening of the new Long Thanh International Airport close to Ho Chi Minh City in early 2025, it’s expected that the nation’s visitor capacity will reach 25 million. It’s poised to emerge as a major global tourism powerhouse, with long-term ambitions to overtake Malaysia and rival Thailand as Southeast Asia’s top travel destination.
