This initiative is part of HCMC’s mid-term plan for the smart travel scheme, which is set to be implemented from 2020 to 2025 with a vision for 2030, the local media reported.

In addition to virtual travel booths, the city will launch a chatbot platform to support tourism, upgrade the QR code system, and establish a center for smart travel management.

The development of smart travel apps for Android and iOS is also underway, providing travelers with convenient access to the latest travel information. HCMC has also uploaded information about 366 travel resources in the city on Google’s GPS and e-commerce platforms this year.

The city plans to incorporate 3D technology to promote tourism, allowing tourists to experience immersive views of different parts of the city from high vantage points. An information portal will be introduced to enable travelers to review the quality of travel services.

The HCMC Department of Tourism will work with various agencies, the People’s Committees of all districts, and Thu Duc City to update information and images of service areas, arts, and cultural attractions on Google Art & Culture.

HCMC has set ambitious goals for tourism in 2023, aiming to welcome five million foreign tourists and 35 million domestic tourists, with revenue reaching an estimated VND160,000 billion.

Source: Saigon Times