Vietnam is becoming an attractive and alluring destination, making tourists “never bored”. That is the positive assessment of the American travel magazine Travel Off Path. This magazine not only affirms the attractiveness of the S-shaped strip of land but also analyzes in depth the key factors that have contributed to the boom of Vietnam’s tourism industry.
It has a rich history and culture, affordable travel costs, diverse and beautiful natural landscapes, rich cuisine and finally the warm hospitality of the local people. Thanks to these advantages, Vietnam is having one of the highest tourism growth rates in the world, surpassing many competitors in the region.
The clearest evidence is the impressive growth in international arrivals: last year, Vietnam welcomed 17.5 million arrivals, up nearly 40% over the previous year. And in just the first 7 months of this year, this number has reached more than 12.2 million arrivals, up 22.5% over the same period, putting Vietnam in the group of countries with the world's leading tourism growth rate.
While many regional competitors, such as Thailand, are struggling with declining tourist numbers, Vietnam has maintained its growth momentum, showing its outstanding advantages. Based on observations and analysis, Travel Off Path has pointed out 5 main reasons for this special attraction.
Rich historical and cultural treasure
Vietnam’s appeal comes not only from its stunning natural landscapes but also from its rich, colorful history and culture. Its long history, colonial influences and the scars of war have blended together to create a unique identity that is evident in its architecture, cuisine and the daily lives of its people.
Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living testament to this cultural exchange. With its well-preserved architecture, Hoi An reflects diverse cultural influences, from traditional Vietnamese and Chinese architecture to Japanese and French styles. It is not only a tourist attraction but also a living museum where visitors can feel the ancient and peaceful pace of life.
For those who love to explore the history of feudal dynasties, Hue Imperial Citadel is a must-see destination. This ancient architectural work takes visitors back in time to the Nguyen Dynasty, admiring the magnificence of the palace and learning about the secret stories of the palace. In addition, historical sites associated with war such as Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City or the War Remnants Museum are also important destinations, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of a turbulent period in Vietnam's history.
Reasonable travel costs
Vietnam is not only a culturally rich destination but also one of the most affordable countries to visit in Southeast Asia. This is evidenced by cost of living comparison figures. For example, the cost of living in Hanoi (excluding rent) is 11.1% lower than Kuala Lumpur, 16.6% lower than Manila, 28% lower than Bangkok and 69.1% lower than Singapore (as of end-2024).
Especially for digital nomads, Vietnam’s relaxed tourist visa policy and affordable housing costs have created an ideal environment for them to work and explore at the same time. When housing costs are included, the difference in consumer prices between Vietnam and other countries becomes even more obvious, making Vietnam an economical yet quality choice.
Perfect and diverse natural landscape
Despite the reasonable cost of travel, the natural landscape in Vietnam is not inferior to any country in the world, even considered to be top-notch. From the towering limestone mountains of Ha Long Bay, a world natural heritage, to the terraced rice fields winding like silk ribbons of Sa Pa, the beauty of Vietnam's nature is truly unparalleled.
Adventurous souls will be attracted by the wild and majestic Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, the lush green Mekong Delta and the breathtaking beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall. These places not only exude magical beauty but also offer countless opportunities for exciting adventure activities. Visitors can trek in the Northwest mountains, cruise along the Mekong River, or dive to explore the colorful coral world off the coast of Phu Quoc Island.
Food paradise with diverse flavors
One of the most unique aspects of Vietnamese culture, on par with its breathtaking landscapes, is its cuisine. Vietnamese cuisine is a feast for the senses, with a harmonious combination of rich flavors, fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy and salty.
Traditional dishes like pho and banh mi are famous worldwide, but Vietnam also has countless other lesser-known but equally delicious dishes such as bun cha, bun bo Hue, or cao lau in Hoi An. Each dish has a story, a unique flavor of each region, giving gourmets unforgettable culinary experiences.
The hospitality and warmth of the people
Ultimately, while all of these factors attract tourists to Vietnam, what really sets it apart and makes them want to return time and time again is the warmth and incredible hospitality of the local people. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beaches of Da Nang, genuine smiles and a willingness to help are always on hand.
The friendliness and openness of the Vietnamese people not only help tourists feel safe and welcome, but also create memorable personal experiences. It is the warmth of the people that turns a simple trip into a cultural journey, leaving deep impressions, making tourists want to come back to explore more even after leaving.
