VietNamNet Bridge - Natural resources and cultural assets are believed to be the biggest advantages of Vietnam in attracting travelers. As such, the country needs to develop a tourism identity with focus on sustainable development, experts say.


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Son Doong Cave



The World Economic Forum (WEF) report said Vietnam is the only Southeast Asian country listed among the 15 fastest growing countries in the world. However, its position is among the lower average countries in the region. Ranked 67th, Vietnam is below neighboring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

What are the typical characteristics of Vietnam?

Southeast Asian countries are known as colorful destinations for travelers with reasonable prices. Each has its own typical story. 

Singapore, the country with the best tourism competitive edge in the region, according to WEF, promotes tourism via stories from the people of the island nation. 

With a lack of a coastline and beautiful natural landscapes, Singapore attracts travelers with artificial works and luxury shopping malls.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) report said Vietnam is the only Southeast Asian country listed among the 15 fastest growing countries in the world. However, its position is among the lower average countries in the region. Ranked 67th, Vietnam is below neighboring countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Thailand, which leads in both number of travelers and revenue from tourism, has focuses its identity on nightlife, islands and locals’ religions. As for Cambodia and Myanmar, they focus on Angkor and Bagan.

Vietnam, favored by nature, has many wonderful natural landscapes, including Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage Site, and Son Doong, the biggest cave in the world.

The central region and Central Highlands of Vietnam have islands and sea, suitable to develop ecotourism and original culture. The area has 11 UNESCO recognized heritage sites and beautiful beaches, including Da Nang, one of the six most beautiful beaches in the planet as recognized by Forbes.

The WEF report also noted Vietnam’s advantages to develop natural resources-related tourism and culture tourism by ranking Vietnam on a position 30 grades higher than the general grade. Its intangible cultural assets are among the top 30 in the world.

Analysts note that Vietnam should contrast the rapid development of urban areas and the protection of traditional cultures and natural landscapes.

Sustainable development 

WEF’s report says that Vietnam lags far behind other countries in terms of developing tourism in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The budget for tourism development is modest, while environmental solutions in developing tourism receive a low grade.

Experts now cast their eyes to Ninh Thuan, which they believe has great potential for tourism development. Ninh Thuan has a clean land fund and no previous investment conflicts. It could become an attractive long-term tourist destination, said Nguyen Truong Son from Crystal Bay.


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