On February 7, the Europa cruise ship, operated by Hapag Lloyd Cruises, docked at Saigon Port, bringing with it over 350 German tourists. The passengers disembarked, eager to explore Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and immerse themselves in the preparations for the Lunar New Year, locally referred to as Tet.
The two-day itinerary for the German guests included visiting popular tourist spots, understanding the vibrant Tet atmosphere, and delving into history with an expedition of the Cu Chi tunnels. The rise in international tourists interested in experiencing Vietnam’s unique cultural festivities, such as Tet, represents a positive shift in tourism trends. This interest is buoyed by a boost in available services and offerings during these festive periods.
Ben Thanh market, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, has seen a surge in footfall with over 60% of customers being international visitors. This bustling atmosphere is a testament to the increasing appeal of Vietnam as a tourist destination. The country’s tourism sector, which is on the path to a full recovery in 2024, has set ambitious targets in line with this growth.
Following the Europa, the Celebrity Cruises ship, another vessel under Hapag Lloyd Cruises, is set to bring 3,000 international guests to Vietnam. This will coincide with the Tet holiday, offering these guests a chance to witness the country’s most significant festival. Saigontourist Travel Service Company, a leading travel agency, has also announced that three more luxury cruise ships will visit Vietnam in February. The Celebrity Solstice is set for a five-day voyage from February 22 to 26. The Spectrum of the Seas, operated by Royal Caribbean Group, will dock at Ba Ria-Vung Tau on February 20, and the Crystal Symphony is scheduled to be in Vietnam from February 20 to 25. This influx of international visitors, seeing a 15% increase compared to the previous year, bodes well for Vietnam’s tourism industry, especially for sea travel.
Boutique Travel VC raises investment cap from $1.5M to $10M to lead rounds and support portfolio companies through growth Travel...
Read moreDetails
— In short: Major airlines raise fares and fees due to Iran conflict-driven fuel cost surge. Airline Fee Increases The...
Read moreDetails
