For the last few years, Vietnam's tourism industry has steadily grown while the global media has always given the subject minimal coverage. However, recent statistics showing that in a year on year comparison, Vietnam's tourism industry has increased by approximately 15% for the first two months of this year.
What may come as an even greater surprise to many property investors is that this figure of 15% is the national average, however, it is not the maximum increase for certain regions of the country such as Ha Long Bay which actually experienced a record 46% increased in the number of tourists visiting the area.
The General Statistics Office recently released these figures, announcing that roughly 861,000 arrived in Vietnam during the month of January. Nearly 517,000 of the tourists were vacationers, and business trips made up approximately 160,000 of the total – a 57% increase over 2007. With significant numbers originating from China, Japan, Taiwan, the US and Australia, Vietnam is poised to have a record breaking year.
This influx of visitors is partly due to an extended promotional campaign conducted by the Vietnamese tourist industry. This is according to Nguyen Quy Phuong, deputy director of the Travel Department of the Viet Nam Administration. He added, "Actually, 15% is not that impressive. If the tourism industry wants to meet is annual target of attracting 5 million visitors, we need 18% more foreign visitors compared to 2007."
With a record breaking year within the country's grasp, property investors are beginning to take notice.
With several new developments in the works, and other property investors now looking at key tourists areas with popular attractions, a real estate boom may be next in the works which would benefit by the increased number of visitors. There is also speculation that Vietnam may become a hot spot for 2nd homes or vacation houses.
