Golden Bridge in Vietnam attracts millions of international tourists. (xiquinhosilva/WikimediaCommons)
The tourism industry is one of the key aspects of a country’s thriving economy. Vietnam is keen to boost it and make continuous efforts, searching for new customers.
Indian Visitors Flock Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the many beautiful countries in Asia and a member of the ASEAN. The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism claimed the region earned more than $14.5 billion from 5.5 million international visitors since the start of 2023. Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the most visited place by over 2.3 million tourists.
Generally known as Saigon, HCMC is Vietnam’s most populous city. From July 20-25, it received almost 500 MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) visitors from India. They stayed at Le Meridien Saigon Hotel and visited the HCMC Post Office. The group also visited War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market, and ate Indian and Vietnamese food.
The government agency said the number of Indian tourists to Vietnam during the first five months of this year reached 141,000. It exceeded the total number of Indian visitors to Vietnam in 2022. The country expects the figures to reach half a million this year, increasing it to 250% compared to last year.
According to Asia DMC Managing Director, Mr Suhash Chandar, Vietnam is a favourable destination among Indian tourists. Soon, the company focusing on welcoming Indian visitors to the country will stretch its stopovers to the central and northern provinces.
Irresistible Offers of MICE Tourism in Ho Chi Minh City
HCMC Tourism Promotion Center Director, Ms Nguyen Cam Tu disclosed the city considers MICE tourism as one of the several distinctive and prospective tourism products that needs capitalisation in tourism development. Aside from emphasising product quality improvement, services, and lodging facilities, HCMC’s Department of Tourism has engaging offers and delightful programs. These agendas include welcoming tourist groups, tour leaders souvenir gifts, tourist ticket discounts, and supporting promotions on various platforms.
Searching for New Customers to Boost the Tourism Industry
Vietnam wants more visitors aside from traditional groups of tourists. It seeks new customers, including those from Muslim countries. In 2013, around 108 million Muslim tourists visited the country and reached 160 million by 2019, based on the Global Islam Index report.
In December last year, Tan Son Nhat Airport Services Joint Stock Company opened the Jasmine business lounge. It’s the first airport lounge in the country that meets international standards for Muslim business-class passengers. Best of all, it’s certified by Halal Consulting & Training Company.
