Vietnam Overtakes Thailand as Top Choice for Indian Tourists

Vietnam has surpassed Thailand as the fastest-growing Southeast Asian destination for Indian tourists. This surge in popularity is highlighted in a recent article by The Economic Times of India. Several factors contribute to Vietnam's appeal, including improved accessibility and flexible visa policies. Vietnam Airlines launched its first nonstop flight between the United States and Vietnam in 2021, connecting San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. In 2023, Vietnam introduced new electronic visa policies, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days. The country has also expanded its list of visa-free countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the Republic of Korea, and Spain. 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. 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 brought global recognition to Vietnam's culinary scene. This makes it a strong contender for luxury travelers. Vietnam witnessed an unprecedented surge in Indian travellers, with over 500,000 visiting in 2024, a 297% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. Lavish destination weddings are a big draw, with Phu Quoc and Ha Long emerging as popular venues. A simplified visa process and additional nonstop flights from India have further driven demand. The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) expects this boom to continue.