Friendliness bringing visitors back to Vietnam

In the first two months of 2025, travel agencies such as Travelogy reported a surge in numbers of international arrivals coming to Vietnam, making the 20 million visitor target this year plausible.

Friendliness bringing visitors back to Vietnam

“In 2018, Vietnam recorded 15.6 million international arrivals. By 2024, this number had risen to 17.5 million, marking an encouraging recovery for the industry after the pandemic. In 2025, with this growth momentum, Vietnam could reach 20 million international arrivals,” said Vu Van Tuyen, Travelogy CEO.

Discussing Vietnam’s appeal as a travel destination, Chaiyaphat Prempree, a Thai musician living in Hanoi for the second year after first visiting this country in 2022, told VIR that the hospitality and warmth of the local people constantly made him think about returning.

“Besides the breathtaking landscapes, what truly made my travels special was the kindness of the people. No matter where I went, the locals were always welcoming and eager to share their culture. Even though we didn’t speak the same language, a smile or a simple gesture was enough to connect,” he said.

Andrei Iamandi, a Romanian traveller believes that the hospitality of the Vietnamese people played a key role in his decision to extend his trip from three weeks top to limitless so he can immerse himself in the country’s offering after the dynamic streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and the serene landscapes of Ha Giang loop.

“The natural beauty is breathtaking, the cuisine is exceptional, and the warmth of the people has made a lasting impression on me. The connections I’ve made, with both locals and fellow travellers, have made my time here even more meaningful,” he said.

Comparing Vietnam to Italy, another country he has visited, Iamandi noted that the atmosphere, traditions, and way of life in Vietnam are distinct.

“From the way people gather on sidewalks for meals to the energetic pace of daily life, Vietnam has given me a fresh perspective on how different yet interconnected cultures can be,” Iamandi said.

Nevertheless, some believe that more can be done to ensure first impressions are improved. Speaking to VIR, Dr. Trinh Le Anh, head of the Department of Tourism Studies at Vietnam National University, spoke of a personal experience during a trip to Dubai, where he was warmly welcomed by immigration officers who greeted him with smiles and a heartfelt welcome. However, referring to ongoing survey results conducted by his department on international visitors arriving at Noi Bai Airport, Le Anh pointed out that many travellers describe it as cold and unwelcoming, with expressionless faces and no greetings, regardless of the time of day.

“Although visitors will experience warmth and hospitality during their travels across Vietnam, first impressions are often the most lasting and play a significant role in shaping perceptions of the country’s tourism industry,” he said.

Travelogy CEO Tuyen noted that technology has played a crucial role in enhancing Vietnam’s image in the eyes of international tourists through digital platforms, which have contributed significantly to both visitor numbers and return rates.

“AI technology and 360-degree video clips have made Vietnam’s destinations more vivid and accessible to potential travellers. Moreover, coverage on major international channels such as CNN and the BBC has made it easier to promote the country’s image to the world,” Tuyen said.

He also pointed out that Vietnam’s reputation has grown thanks to its effective pandemic response. This, combined with its rich history, has sparked curiosity among many tourists who wish to visit and see the resilience of the country for themselves.

“I once spoke with an American visitor who told me he wanted to come to Vietnam to understand why such a small nation has shown such extraordinary resilience, whether in defending its land or in facing challenges like the pandemic,” Tuyen said.