4 Reasons Why Vietnam Is The Fastest-Growing Tourist Destination With 17.5 Million Visitors

Vietnam has become Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing tourist destination, with a record 17.5 million overseas travellers in 2024. This growth has propelled Vietnam over Singapore to become the third-most-visited nation in the region, after Thailand and Malaysia. Various developments have driven this accelerated growth, ranging from enhanced accessibility to luxury hospitality complexes and an exploding culinary scene. The country is now aiming high, trying to beat its own records and climb even higher on the list of Southeast Asia’s best tourist destinations.

4 Reasons Why Vietnam Is The Fastest Growing Tourist Destination 

1. Increased Flight Connectivity

One of Vietnam’s biggest reasons behind its fastest-expanding tourist hot spot is better access. In 2021, Vietnam Airlines began its first-ever direct service from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City, simplifying travel for American visitors. The country is optimistic that it will reach 23 million foreign visitors by the end of 2025 and continue to expand its capacity once Long Thanh International Airport becomes operational in 2026. Also, increased non-stop flights have opened the country to foreigners.

2. Simplified Visa Policies and Extended Stays

In 2023, new electronic visa rules were announced by the government under which tourists will be allowed to remain in the country for up to 90 days—three times longer than before. Visa-free tourism was also added for more than a dozen countries, such as France, Germany, Japan, Russia, South Korea, and Spain. It is anticipated that more countries will be included shortly. This ease of access has resulted in a substantial increase in foreign visitors. 

Also Read: Vietjet Is Offering Fares As Low As ₹11 On All Routes Between India And Vietnam; Details Inside

3. Luxury Hospitality and Culinary Boom

Vietnam is also becoming a leading luxury destination. The expansion of luxury hotels and resorts, including the Regent Phu Quoc, Capella Hanoi, and JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon, has attracted visitors looking for high-end experiences. Upcoming projects from Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Park Hyatt, and The Luxury Collection further drive its appeal.

The food culture of the country has also become famous globally. The rise of the Michelin Guide in 2024 has put Vietnam on the international culinary map, and it is now a hotspot for food travellers. These features are attracting high-spending tourists who previously preferred Thailand, Japan, and Singapore as their destination.

4. Growing Popularity Among Indian and Chinese Travellers

India, particularly, has experienced stunning growth, with over 500,000 Indian travellers visiting Vietnam during 2024—a whopping 297% increase from the pre-pandemic era. Many Indian families are choosing destinations like Phu Quoc and Ha Long for lavish destination weddings. Additionally, high-spending Chinese tourists have been drawn to Vietnam, especially after safety concerns in Bangkok impacted travel choices.

Vietnam’s rise as Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing tourism destination is a testament to its rich culture, warm hospitality, and forward-thinking travel policies.

In the years to come, Vietnam will surpass Malaysia in tourism rankings, with only Thailand as its competitor.

Also Read: Vietnam To Soon Relax Visa Rules For Indians; Plans To Attract More Tourists To The Coastal City Of Da Nang

Through its strategic move of expanding in travel, hospitality, and infrastructure, Vietnam’s fastest-expanding tourist destination title is just the beginning of its rise to the top.

Cover Image Courtesy:  Canva (For Representation)

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