Hanoi—Vietnam's tourism sector has seen a remarkable surge, with nearly 10 million international visitors reported in the first seven months of this year, according to the General Statistics Office. This marks a 51 percent increase compared to the same period last year and a 1.9 percent rise from 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The influx of tourists from Europe was particularly notable, with a 47.3 percent increase. Key markets in Asia and Australia also experienced substantial growth, with Asia seeing a 57.1 percent rise, driven primarily by Chinese visitors, and Australia observing a 27.3 percent increase. Additionally, the Americas reported a 9.7 percent growth in tourist arrivals.

"The positive figures, especially the surge in European visitors during the low tourism season, can be attributed to Vietnam's favorable visa policies and tourism promotion campaigns by businesses and localities," the General Statistics Office noted.

South Korea and China remained Vietnam's largest tourist source markets during this period. The significant growth in visitor numbers is also a testament to the country's efforts in enhancing its tourism infrastructure and promotional activities.

Sri Lanka's Tourism Surge

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is also experiencing a boost in tourism, particularly in its forest conservation sites. The country saw 444,053 tourists visiting these sites in 2023, up from 289,405 in 2022. As of mid-2024, 364,521 tourists had already visited, with foreign visitors making up 40 percent of this year's total. The introduction of new facilities and online ticket reservations has improved the tourist experience, contributing to the increase.

Vietnam's tourism sector continues to thrive, with the latest figures underscoring the country's growing appeal as a travel destination. The combination of strategic visa policies, effective promotional campaigns, and an expanding range of attractions and services ensures that Vietnam remains a top choice for international travelers.