New Dalat travel map unveiled for tourists

The launch ceremony was hosted by Dalat People’s Committee and UNESCO's Vietnam office.

The map, developed by Pho Ben Doi Creative Studio, aims to emphasise community values as Dalat seeks sustainable urban development solutions while preserving and promoting its distinctive cultural heritage.

The Dalat Art Tourism Map comprises 52 destinations, including public spaces, historical and heritage sites, museums, research and educational spaces, religious sites, natural landscapes, and arts and entertainment venues.

The map is designed with both printed and digital versions, and visitors can scan QR codes at various attractions to view or obtain a free paper copy of the map at Dalat Station.

Speaking at the event, Dang Van Tu, Chairman of Dalat People's Committee said, “The development of the Dalat Art Map is one of several local initiatives to promote the role of culture and creativity in the city's sustainable development, with the goal of connecting and introducing outstanding art destinations, cultural and musical performance venues, and iconic landmarks of the city."

This product is not merely a navigation tool, but also a bridge between artists, art establishments and the community, helping to open up interesting stories about history, culture and creativity, whilst promoting the sustainable development of tourism and art, Tu added.

Jonathan Baker, UNESCO Representative to Vietnam, spoke at the event

Jonathan Baker, UNESCO representative to Vietnam said, “This initiative will contribute to shaping the cultural and creative ecosystem of the city and will be a useful tool for visitors to navigate it well, whilst also supporting state agencies to better manage and promote heritage and creative spaces.”

Baker also highlighted Dalat's potential for sustainable development through its rich cultural traditions from 20 ethnic minorities. He noted that balancing socioeconomic growth with cultural heritage preservation, emphasising economic value from artistic creativity, and fostering diverse creative expressions will boost the city's economy and preserve its heritage.

Dalat People's Committee will cooperate with relevant units to continue developing this map to provide complete and accurate information about new art destinations and outstanding local cultural events. After the print and digital graphic versions, the map will have an interactive version available on the internet.

Several digital tourism maps have been implemented in Vietnam to provide visual information for tourists about attractive destinations. In May, the Smart 3D/360 Interactive Heritage Map application was launched by Star Global in Ho Chi Minh City, creating a VR tour space for tourists to access heritage sites such as Halong Bay and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

In 2023, Hoi An launched a project to introduce tourism images on the Metaverse platform, including a VR 360 website, the Hoi An Metaverse Space, and a 3D digital map of Hoi An Japanese Bridge on the MAP 3D platform.

In the same year, the Management Board of Con Dao National Tourist Area launched a 360-degree 3D map of Con Dao tourism, linking photos to create a 3D design, allowing users to easily observe Con Dao from all angles.

Utilising digital technology to leverage cultural heritage strengths Digital solutions aimed at developing Vietnam's heritage values ​​​​were proposed by businesses and experts at an international conference organised by the Vietnam Federation of UNESCO Associations in early August.

UNESCO experts assess complex in Vietnam for World Heritage status UNESCO experts are assessing the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex from August 5-15 for World Cultural Heritage status.

Dalat railway station recognised as tourist destination The recognition of Dalat Station on the national tourism map should provide momentum for the railway sector to leverage its potential, promoting tourism and economic development.