Sustainable travel is a growing trend among Vietnamese travelers, with 75% inspired to adopt more sustainable practices while on their journeys, leading to a more engaged and mindful lifestyle. An impressive 94% intend to make their trips in the coming year even more environmentally conscious.
Foreign travellers exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam Province, by bicycle. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An |
As Booking.com‘s Sustainable Travel Report 2024 highlights, green travel is becoming increasingly popular among locals.
The accommodation platform has revealed six mindful travel destinations for 2024, chosen by travelers for their commitment to sustainability: Ha Giang Province, Danang City, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quy Nhon City, Song Cau Town, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Nestled in the coastal province of Phu Yen, Song Cau Town captivates visitors with its untouched beaches and quaint fishing villages. This charming town offers a glimpse into local life, featuring historic lighthouses and scenic treks to take in the beauty of Mui Dien cape. Community-based tourism is thriving here, with initiatives like marine reserves and mangrove restoration projects supporting the local community.
The serene beauty of Song Cau Town, Phu Yen, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches. Photo: Booking.com |
In the mountainous region of Ha Giang, Ha Giang Province presents a landscape of majestic karst mountains, winding roads, and mist-shrouded villages. This region is also a cultural melting pot, home to various ethnic minorities preserving their unique traditions and lifestyles. Ha Giang has made cultural preservation and responsible tourism a priority.
The ancient town of Hoi An, recognized by UNESCO, seamlessly blends conservation and tourism development. Visitors can explore the well-preserved architecture, witness traditional crafts, and embark on a magical journey through the Bay Mau coconut forest.
Hoi An’s Basket Boat Tour offers a unique experience in the Cam Thanh Coconut Village. Photo: Thu Nguyen |
Quy Nhon City has emerged as an ecotourism hotspot, known for its vibrant marine ecosystem. Strict coral reef protection measures and community initiatives ensure the marine environment remains pristine. Beachgoers can discover the untouched beauty of Ky Co Eo Gio, marveling at unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Quy Nhon also boasts other stunning beaches like Hon Kho and Bai Xep, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and camping while enjoying fresh seafood.
Quy Nhon City in Binh Dinh enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Photo: Booking.com |
Danang, a central coastal city, is a cyclist’s paradise, with 96% of Vietnamese travelers reporting enhanced experiences through bike rentals. The city offers a range of cycling routes, from winding paths through lush greenery to bridges over the Han River, providing sweeping views. My Khe Beach, known for its gentle slope, is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploration. Danang is also renowned for its emission-free exploration, with dedicated bike lanes and minimal traffic.
The Golden Bridge in Danang City offers a scenic cycling route with breathtaking views. Photo: Danang Travel |
Ho Chi Minh City, a dynamic urban center, has been committed to balancing tourism and environmental protection since 2023, enforcing ASEAN tourism standards. The city presents a plethora of options, from bustling markets to architectural marvels and scenic cruises along the Saigon River. The city’s vibrant rooftop bar scene offers a unique perspective on the bustling metropolis.
Booking.com selected these destinations based on the volume of properties with independent third-party sustainability certifications, ensuring a diverse geographic representation.
The Saigon River at sunset, as viewed from Mia Saigon Hotel. A romantic cruise along the river is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s many attractions. |
The call from Nam Giang
Tung tung da da – the Co Tu people’s “dance for the Gods”, brings tourists to explore the cultural life of the people living in the midst of the majestic Truong Son mountain range.