Investing in smart cities is not only a trend in the fourth industrial era but also a new drive and solution for developing urban areas sustainably.

Accounting for 70% of tourism activities in Vietnam, sea and island tourism is one of the country’s most popular types, attracting more foreign tourists each year and is also an important direction in the fast and sustainable development strategy of the Vietnamese tourism industry.

While most tourism operators seek to make profit, and in doing so generate tax income and bring about employment opportunities, many enterprises are now also focusing on running their business towards a more sustainable model by supporting local communities to develop together and demonstrating their role and responsibilities within society.

Now in its fourth year, Taste of Australia is back in venues across Vietnam during May. The annual celebration of Australian produce, cuisine, culture and lifestyle returns with a series of exciting events throughout the country.

Timeout would like to introduce seven outstanding people who have made a great contribution either directly or indirectly to the fast growth of Vietnam’s tourism industry and economy in 2018.

Timeout asked international visitors and residents ‘What is the memory that reminds you most of your time in Vietnam?’ 

The year 2018 witnessed unbelievable results for Vietnam’s tourism industry, with a record 15.6 million international visitors and 80 million domestic tourists, generating VND620 trillion (around US$26.55 billion) in total tourism revenue. In order to achieve this vigorous growth of tourism, the airline industry has made an important contribution.

Travel agents in Vietnam are entering the race to attract tourists during the New Year holiday and Tet 2019 (Lunar New Year) by offering thousands of attractive inbound and outbound tours at competitive prices.

Climbing to the top of Yen Tu mountain on an autumn day delivers tranquility and wonderfully cool weather.

Contrary to the image of loneliness, fearsomeness and trying to hide in the crowd that has been much-reported in the media in recent years, the members of the LGBT community in Vietnam are now confidently living up to their true sexuality, including being open about their orientation in their careers.