THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam is witnessing a remarkable surge in global interest, with search volumes for its destinations soaring by an impressive 10% to 25%. This puts the country ahead of established regional tourism hotspots such as Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
According to Google Destination Insights data from February 11 to May 1, Vietnam was the sole Southeast Asian nation in the top 10 destinations with the most significant online interest growth.
The captivating scenery of Phu Quoc Island, captured by Thanh Truc.
Within Asia, Vietnam outshone several prominent tourism markets, with the Philippines ranking 18th, Singapore 25th, Thailand 36th, Indonesia 37th, and Malaysia in the 39th position.
The most sought-after destinations within Vietnam included iconic cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang, along with idyllic locations like Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang province and the coastal city of Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa province. Notably, emerging destinations such as Vung Tau and Ninh Binh experienced a remarkable 75% increase in search volume.
The top searches originated from a diverse range of source markets, including the United States, India, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. This reflects the broad international appeal of Vietnamese tourism.
This exceptional growth can be attributed to a combination of strategic policies, enhanced infrastructure, and a constantly evolving tourism product offering. A key contributor is Vietnam’s progressive visa policy, which has expanded visa waivers and streamlined entry procedures with an efficient e-visa system.
The breathtaking sight of ripe rice fields in Tam Coc – Bich Dong Tourism Complex, Ninh Binh, captured during the golden season. Photo courtesy of the Ninh Binh Tourism Promotion Center.
Additionally, Vietnam’s expanding network of international air routes has played a significant role in boosting accessibility. Direct flights from major global cities to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, and Phu Quoc have made it much more convenient for foreign travelers to visit the country.
Vietnam’s tourism allure lies in its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern vibrancy. Visitors are treated to a range of experiences, from exploring UNESCO-listed heritage sites and pristine beaches to immersing themselves in terraced rice fields and vibrant metropolises. The introduction of new tourism models, such as agritourism, wellness tourism, rail travel, and adventure sports, further enhances the diversity of offerings and caters to the evolving preferences of global travelers.
In the first four months of 2025, Vietnam welcomed over 7.6 million international arrivals, reflecting a notable 23.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. With this momentum, the country is well on its way to achieving its ambitious target of 22-23 million international visitors by the end of the year, significantly contributing to the projected GDP growth rate of 8% for Vietnam in 2025.
Vietnam continues to solidify its position as a leading destination in Asia, offering cultural authenticity and renowned hospitality that attracts both returning visitors and first-time explorers alike.
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