According to the City Pulse 2025 survey by the Gensler Research Institute of the US, the city ranked second globally in retaining residents, ahead of Singapore, Sydney and Berlin. The survey of over 33,000 people in 65 cities across six continents assessed not only satisfaction but also emotional ties such as belonging and pride.

Le Truong Hien Hoa, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Tourism, said the results highlight HCM City as more than a place to work or travel. A city where residents want to stay long-term is one where visitors are also more likely to stay longer, return, and even consider investing, studying or living.

Hoa added that tourism leaders viewed this as a strong foundation for developing richer and more appealing experiences, noting that residents’ emotional connection to the city was closely linked to how tourists perceived it.

Ahead of World Tourism Day (September 27), digital travel platform Agoda reported a 15% rise in searches for “secondary destinations” across Asia compared with 2023. In Vietnam, searches for such destinations grew 9% in the first half of 2025.

Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern said the trend creates opportunities for local economies, noting that wider distribution of tourism spending benefits communities.

Tran Van Tuan, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Council, praised the sector’s recent achievements and emphasised that tourism should be positioned as a spearhead industry, serving as a pillar of development that contributes to economic restructuring, job creation and improved living standards.

With a population exceeding 14 million and improved infrastructure, including new expressways, waterways and the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport, the city is investing in cultural, culinary, river and coastal tourism products, as well as night-time and craft village experiences, to diversify offerings and enhance visitor connections.

HCM City affirms standing on international tourism map

The 12th Tourism Promotion Organisation for Global Cities (TPO) General Assembly opened in Ho Chi Minh City on September 3 under the theme of “Shaping the Future of Tourism: Embracing Digital and Green Transformation.”