Vietnam Emerges as Southeast Asia’s New Tourism Hotspot:

Vietnam has rapidly risen as a new favorite among global travelers, outshining many traditional destinations in Southeast Asia. Renowned for its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and cost-effective travel, the country welcomed a record 17.5 million international tourists in 2024. This remarkable surge helped Vietnam surpass Singapore to become the third most visited country in the region. A key highlight of this growth is the sharp increase in Indian visitors, with arrivals from India jumping by an impressive 297%.

The revival of Vietnam’s tourism sector post-COVID-19 has been nothing short of exceptional. The country has regained 98% of its pre-pandemic tourism revenue. In just the first two months of 2024, Vietnam received around 4 million foreign tourists—30.2% higher than the same period last year. Projections suggest that by the end of 2025, Vietnam may overtake Malaysia to become Southeast Asia’s second most popular tourist destination, attracting up to 23 million tourists annually.

Vietnam's success is also driven by traveler-friendly policies and improved connectivity. The government introduced new e-visa rules in 2023, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days—triple the previous limit. Citizens from countries like South Korea, Japan, France, and Germany now enjoy visa-free entry. The launch of the first non-stop flight from the United States to Vietnam has further enhanced accessibility for global tourists.

Another trend boosting Vietnam's popularity is the rise of destination weddings among Indian travelers. Locations like Phu Quoc and Ha Long Bay have become prime choices for high-profile Indian weddings, significantly increasing tourism inflow from India. With its diverse attractions, easy travel policies, and increasing global attention, Vietnam is solidifying its place as a premier tourism destination in Southeast Asia.