Vietnam's tourism boom spotlights Da Nang, Hoi An and Ha Long Bay

Vietnam is drawing increasing numbers of international visitors, especially from France, as its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage gain prominence on the tourism map. In central Vietnam, Da Nang has shifted from a former U.S. military base to a major resort hub, with the Son Tra Peninsula now home to the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, a luxury complex designed by Bill Bensley that includes a Michelin‑starred restaurant, La Maison 1888.

Further north, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An preserves its ancient architecture, lantern‑lit evenings and the Precious Heritage museum that showcases portraits of 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups. Ha Long Bay remains one of the world’s most famous seascapes, though rising tourist traffic has sparked concerns about overcrowding and the need for visitor‑management measures. The spiritual mountain area of Yen Tu and the limestone scenery of Ninh Binh, dubbed “the inland Ha Long Bay,” are also promoted for wellness, meditation and nature tourism.

Overall, the expansion of high‑end accommodations and the promotion of cultural sites underscore Vietnam’s strategy to boost tourism revenue while balancing preservation of its natural and historic assets.