Profile of Vietnam as a travel destination by destination management company Tulip Tours Vietnam

The country at a glance

Full country name: Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Area: 330,991 square km, similar in size and shape to Italy (S-shape, tall and narrow)
Population: appr. 82 million; Vietnamese or Kinh (85%), Chinese (3%), Khmer, Cham and various hill tribes

Vietnam witnessed an impressive increase in foreign visitors during the mid-90's, but the figure stabilised at around 2 million by the end of the 90's. After 2000, foreign arrivals grew to 2.6 million in 2002, but dropped to 2.2 million in 2003 as a result of SARS. After SARS was controlled in Vietnam in late April, foreign travel quickly bounced back. In 2004, the country welcomed 2.9 million foreign visitors and in 2005 nearly 3.5 million. This growth spurt slowed down somewhat in 2006, when foreign arrivals grew by a mere 3% to nearly 3.6 million.
Hotel construction is booming again across the country in anticipation of continued tourism growth. There are international standard hotel rooms in all tourist areas. In remote areas quality accommodation remains scarce.
After significant improvements, most highways are in reasonable to good condition, yet narrow and often crowded.
Daily flights between Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and all major tourist areas; only modern, western aircraft; flights are generally on time.
Train travel has also picked up with new, air-conditioned carriages, Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City now takes 30 or 32 hours.
Visa are required for most visitors and can easily be obtained.

Vietnam is a fascinating new destination in Asia because of its variety and friendly people
Growing visitor numbers make Vietnam an interesting destination for business reasons, but also mean higher prices and potentially lower price-quality ratios