The media outlet points out several factors which have contributed to Vietnam’s rising popularity. It highlights greater accessibility as a major reason, noting the first-ever nonstop flight between the United States and Vietnam that was launched by Vietnam Airlines in 2021, connecting San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flexible visa policies have also helped Vietnam to attract more and more foreign arrivals. In 2023, Vietnam introduced new electronic visa policies, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days, three times the previous limit. The country has also expanded its list of visa-free countries, which now includes France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the Republic of Korea, and Spain.

At the same time, Vietnam has seen an influx of top-tier hospitality brands. New openings include the Regent Phu Quoc, Capella Hanoi, and JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon, while upcoming properties from the Luxury Collection, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Park Hyatt are also under construction.

The expansion of the Michelin Guide in 2024 has served to bring in more global recognition to Vietnam’s culinary scene, making it a strong contender for luxury travelers, the Indian website wrote.

The Economic Times reports that Vietnam has witnessed an unprecedented surge in Indian travellers, with over 500,000 Indian tourists visiting in 2024, a 297% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Among the biggest draws are lavish destination weddings, with Phu Quoc and Ha Long emerging as popular venues. In addition, a simplified visa process and additional nonstop flights from India have further driven demand, it adds.

Continued strong growth of Indian tourists to Vietnam in 2024

VOV.VN - Vietnam witnessed impressive growth of Indian tourists in 2024 and is expected to continue to experience a boom this year, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT).