Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis at the heart of Vietnam, is a hub of commerce and culture and a thriving tourism destination. With a strategic focus on sustainable tourism, the city is poised to lead the way in green travel, aligning with its Tourism Development Strategy for 2023. This vision is driven by a collaborative effort within the tourism industry, aimed at creating an environment conducive to green tourism. In this blog, we delve into the initiatives and strategies that are shaping the future of tourism in Ho Chi Minh City.
Sustainable Tourism: A Cornerstone of Development
At the forefront of Ho Chi Minh City's tourism agenda lies the commitment to sustainable practices. The city's Tourism Development Strategy to 2023 is centered on cooperation, encouragement, and promotional mechanisms to foster green tourism. This strategic approach has borne fruit, with the city accounting for 43% of the country's total international tourists. Such success is attributed to a year-round effort by the entire tourism industry, characterized by the introduction of innovative products and a host of domestic and international promotional activities.
Diversification of Tourism Offerings
The city's tourism industry has left no stone unturned in its quest for excellence. From now until the end of the year, the focus will be on enhancing tourism strengths in Thu Duc City and districts, leveraging local assets and strengths. Plans include the development of waterway tourism, cultural and historical experiences, and agricultural and ecological ventures aligned with the new rural construction program. Additionally, night tourism products and medical tourism development will further augment the city's appeal.
Community-Centric Tourism
Ho Chi Minh City recognizes the importance of community involvement in its tourism endeavors. Initiatives in Thieng Lieng, Thanh An, and Can Gio exemplify this ethos, combining the natural and cultural riches of the Can Gio region. These efforts not only preserve but also promote the unique values of this area, ensuring a sustainable and immersive experience for visitors.
Attracting International Visitors
Forecasts indicate a steady rise in international visitors, and the city is well-prepared to welcome them. With a strategic focus on health care, cultural, historical, culinary, and community tourism, the tourism industry aims to create memorable experiences. Key events such as Tourism Week, the International Marathon, and the Ho Do International Music Festival are anticipated to draw significant attention from tourists.
Targeted Marketing and Promotion
To tap into nearby and growing markets, the city is honing its marketing efforts towards China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, India, and the US. Moreover, a concerted effort is underway to boost tourism promotion activities in key markets like Singapore, America, and Laos. The focus is not only on increasing tourist numbers but also on attracting high-spending visitors from these regions.
Can Gio: The Epitome of Green Tourism
Can Gio emerges as a key player in the city's green tourism initiative? Recognized for its vital role in preserving forests, seas, and biosphere reserves, the area is earmarked for significant tourism development. The introduction of community tourism in Thieng Lieng and the upcoming phase 2 in Can Gio, along with ecotourism activities and OCOP product development, highlight the city's dedication to sustainable practices.
Key Components of Green Tourism Development:
- Infrastructure and Connectivity: Investment in parks and tourism connection infrastructure to facilitate seamless travel experiences.
- Quality of Service: Training programs aligned with ASEAN standards, competitive tour guide competitions, and robust communication efforts to promote green tourism.
- Support for Green Businesses: Financial backing and incentives for enterprises invested in eco-friendly practices and the development of green tourism products.
Conclusion: Ho Chi Minh City's pursuit of green tourism not only holds promise for the growth of its tourism industry but also reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and community prosperity. By fostering a sustainable and immersive travel experience, the city is poised to welcome a new wave of conscious travelers, ensuring a brighter, greener future for this vibrant metropolis.