The Israel Securities Authority approval was granted last week, Calcalist reported.
Six mutual funds tracking the price of bitcoin (BTC) will debut in Israel next week after the Israel Securities Authority (ISA) granted permission for the products, Calcalist reported on Wednesday.
All six will start operations on the same day, Dec. 31, a condition imposed by the regulator, Calcalist said. Final approval for the funds was granted last week.
The funds will be offered by Migdal Capital Markets, More, Ayalon, Phoenix Investment, Meitav and IBI, with management fees ranging from as high as 1.5% to 0.25%. One of the funds will be actively managed, trying to beat bitcon’s performance. They will initially transact just once a day, though future products will be able to trade continuously, Globes said in a Tuesday report, citing market sources.
The ISA’s approval comes almost a year after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) greenlighted spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the world’s largest economy, during which the world’s largest cryptocurrency has more than doubled to trade near a record high. The U.S. funds have gathered a net $35.6 billion of investor cash.
“The investment houses have been pleading for more than a year for ETFs to be approved and started sending prospectuses for bitcoin funds in the middle of the year. But the regulator marches to its own tune. It has to check the details,” an unidentified senior executive at an investment house told Calcalist.
According to the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), Vietnam ranks as the second most attractive global investment destination and the top choice in Asia. HSBC further highlights Vietnam’s appeal to foreign investors, with projects from 147 countries and territories. Leading the pack is South Korea, with $89.1 billion in registered capital (17.9% of total FDI), followed by Singapore at $82.3 billion, and other major investors like Japan and Taiwan.
Oxford Economics predicts that Vietnam’s foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows will maintain their upward trajectory, albeit at a slightly slower pace. Currently, FDI enterprises contribute 75% of Vietnam’s export turnover, and this trend is expected to grow as concerns over higher tariffs on Chinese goods persist. However, potential uncertainties loom as the U.S. considers imposing a 10% tariff on Vietnamese exports such as cars, metals, and solar batteries in early 2025. Despite this, experts believe these measures will have limited short-term effects due to delays between policy announcement and implementation.
The impact of new U.S. tariffs, if implemented, is projected to be more pronounced by 2026. Nevertheless, Vietnam’s strong manufacturing base and strategic role in the global value chain will likely support its resilience, allowing the country to benefit from the ongoing China+1 strategy.
In the short term, FDI inflows are expected to bolster domestic businesses. Vietnam’s FDI growth in 2025 is forecasted to reach 7.2%, outpacing the projected 6.9% growth for 2024.
During a conference on December 24 outlining the tax sector’s 2025 objectives, the department announced that in 2024, it had reviewed and updated its e-commerce database, leveraging data from taxation authorities and other government agencies. It also collaborated with e-commerce platforms to collect information on businesses and individuals operating on these platforms.
A task force has been established to identify influencers, content creators (including Youtubers, Tiktokers, KOLs, and livestream sellers on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube) for compliance checks. The department’s tax audit plan targets individuals earning from digital platforms, including e-commerce, salaries, and wages.
In a pilot phase, 35 individuals—primarily celebrities and public figures—were audited, with some declaring and paying over 1 billion VND each in taxes.
Tax Collection from E-Commerce Increases by 31%
The Ho Chi Minh City Tax Department currently manages 58,264 taxpayers engaged in e-commerce, including 12,959 businesses and 45,305 individual entrepreneurs, with a total transaction value of 28.7 trillion VND.
Through inspections, authorities addressed tax compliance issues with 14,581 organizations and individuals. Additional taxes and penalties collected from these audits increased by 31% compared to 2023, amounting to an extra 286 billion VND.
Enhanced public awareness and support initiatives have significantly improved tax compliance among e-commerce participants. For instance, a sole proprietor under the District 1 Tax Branch voluntarily declared and paid 11.5 billion VND, including taxes, fines, and late payment fees, on income derived from digital services.
Additionally, many online sellers on e-commerce platforms self-reported and paid taxes exceeding 1 billion VND in 2024. Notably, one celebrity paid 4.7 billion VND, while a streamer contributed 1.9 billion VND in taxes.
For 2024, domestic tax revenues in Ho Chi Minh City reached an estimated 373.572 trillion VND, surpassing projections by 6.2% and reflecting a 14.1% increase compared to 2023. Despite economic challenges, this represents a positive outcome. In 2025, the tax sector in Ho Chi Minh City aims to achieve a revenue target of 389 trillion VND.
How I Quit My 9-to-5 Job to Become a Freelance Content Writer on Fiverr
This article shares the experience of Georgia Austin — a content writer, strategist, and founder & CEO of Wizeo, a content creation platform for businesses.
Budget cuts and layoffs mean that many companies are turning to freelance workers to fill the gaps. This creates a significant opportunity for freelancers like me.
I quit my 9-to-5 job to become a freelance content writer on Fiverr and moved to Brazil just before the pandemic hit. With nothing but a laptop, I generated $1.7 million (approximately 40 billion VND) in revenue within 17 months. My personal experience taught me that freelancers shouldn’t fear an unpredictable economy.
Here’s what I did to increase revenue, attract new clients, and grow my business:
1. Choose a Niche
Laid-off workers are flooding the freelance market, increasing competition. Specialization helps you target clients more effectively, command higher fees, and create a competitive edge.
I leveraged my background and expertise in content creation to write advertising copy for brands. My advice is to experiment with different freelance services and focus on areas where you excel. Roles like virtual assistants, social media managers, mobile app developers, web designers, copywriters, and accountants are in high demand.
2. Build Your Brand
Once you’ve identified your niche, position yourself as an expert in that area. I started by building my brand on Fiverr — accepting as many contracts as possible to climb the platform’s rankings.
Every service I provided was polished and reasonably priced. Positive client reviews grew steadily, helping me establish my brand. Within two years, I became one of Fiverr’s top 1% earners and began outsourcing work to other writers.
Social media also played a role in building my brand, allowing potential clients to understand who I am and what I can offer. Regular updates on work insights and useful tips attract more clients.
3. Build Relationships
Networking takes time, but the rewards are worth it. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are great for finding direct clients. Look for brands where you believe you can add real value, and proactively share how your services can meet their needs.
Maintaining relationships is equally important. LinkedIn is my primary networking tool, and I post updates 2-3 times a week. This helps me stay connected with former collaborators, gain visibility among industry leaders, and enhance my credibility.
4. Know Your Worth
Many freelancers underprice their services to secure their first contract. Don’t undervalue yourself.
With inflation rising, pricing needs to be carefully considered. Even experienced professionals struggle to maintain the same rates they offered five years ago. Research competitors, set your rates confidently, and ensure your pricing reflects your value.
If you deliver quality work and create positive experiences, clients will see your rates as justified.
Temporary bans may be imposed in other regions during peak energy demand, Tass reported
The Russian government imposed a six-year ban on crypto mining in 10 regions due to the industry’s high power consumption, Tass reported.
The ban, which includes participation in a mining pool and temporary restrictions in other regions during periods of peak demand, takes effect Jan. 1 and ends March 15, 2031, Tass said, citing a decision by the Council of Ministers.
The country legalized crypto mining in July, with the law taking effect last month. Russia bans the use of cryptocurrencies as legal tender for regular payments internally, but does allow cross-border payments with crypto in an attempt to evade sanctions imposed after it invaded Ukraine.
The regions affected by the ban include Dagestan, North Ossetia and Chechnya, and can be altered depending on a government commission examining changes in energy demand.
The ban also takes into account inter-regional subsidies on electricity that make it cheaper to use power in some regions.
Recently, Thua Thien Hue Province and Da Nang City jointly held a ceremony to announce the completion of the “Conservation, Restoration, and Promotion of Hai Van Quan Historical Site” project.
Situated at an altitude of 490 meters on the Hai Van mountain range, Hai Van Quan is an impressive military fortification and one of Vietnam’s most majestic gateways. Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, Hai Van Quan was designated a National Historical and Architectural Monument by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2017.
On the morning of December 21, Thua Thien Hue province and Da Nang city jointly organized a ceremony to announce the completion of the project “Preserving, restoring and promoting the value of Hai Van Quan relic”. Photo: Tran Thien
Over the course of history, Hai Van Quan witnessed numerous fierce battles in Vietnam’s struggle for national defense. At the same time, the site endured the harsh impacts of a rainy, scorching climate, which caused severe degradation.
Acknowledging the importance of Hai Van Quan, authorities from Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang assessed the site as a unique tourism resource that could be effectively managed and developed. To revive the monument, both localities collaborated on its designation as a national heritage site and launched a project for its restoration and conservation. This project focuses on a comprehensive restoration of architectural features to recreate the monument’s historical and aesthetic value.
Located at an altitude of 490m on the Hai Van mountain range, Hai Van Quan is an impressive military citadel architecture. Photo: Tran Thien
Initiated at the end of 2021, the project—aimed at conserving, restoring, and promoting the national monument—was completed with a total investment of over 42 billion VND, equally funded by the budgets of both localities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Binh, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Thua Thien Hue Provincial People’s Committee, emphasized that Hai Van Quan, with its “one-of-a-kind” location, continues to attract domestic and international visitors. The management, conservation, and promotion of Hai Van Quan’s historical, cultural, and natural values are critical to the economic and social development of both Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang.
Within the framework of the program “Top 9 impressive tourism products of Hue”, Hai Van Quan was also honored in the category “Top 9 impressive check-in spots”. Photo: Tran Thien
Currently, the two localities are further enhancing the use of smart technology and digital transformation while investing in infrastructure to better preserve and promote Hai Van Quan.
Specific initiatives include the application of 3D technology, providing free Wi-Fi at the site to help visitors learn more about its heritage values, and developing supporting facilities such as parking areas, standard public restrooms, and spaces for displaying souvenir products for tourists.
As part of the “Top 9 Impressive Hue Tourism Products” program, Hai Van Quan was honored in the category of “Top 9 Impressive Check-in Locations.”
Quang Nam welcomed over 8 million visitors in 2024, surpassing its previous record of 7.8 million visitors in 2019. The province’s total tourism revenue reached approximately 30.82 trillion VND.
On December 20, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Quang Nam announced its notable achievements in the tourism sector for 2024.
In 2024, the total number of visitors to Quang Nam, including both day-trippers and overnight stays, was estimated at over 8 million, a 14% increase compared to 2023 and 6% higher than planned. Of these, 5.5 million were international visitors, while domestic tourists accounted for over 2.5 million.
This marked the first year Quang Nam surpassed 8 million visitors, exceeding its 2019 record of 7.8 million.
Hoi An is recognized as “Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination in 2024”. Photo: Ha Nam
Tourism generated a total revenue of approximately 30.82 trillion VND for the province. Of this, revenue from sightseeing and accommodations reached 9.2 trillion VND, a 19% increase compared to the same period last year, while the estimated social income from tourism was 21.62 trillion VND.
The top 10 international markets with the highest number of overnight visitors to Quang Nam included South Korea, Australia, the UK, France, the United States, Germany, Malaysia, China, and others.
In 2024, Quang Nam received numerous accolades and international awards. The provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism was honored as “Asia’s Leading Local Tourism Management Agency” at the World Travel Awards. Quang Nam was also named “Vietnam’s Most Attractive and Impressive Destination of 2024” by Travellive magazine.
Hoi An, a city in Quang Nam, achieved the title of “Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination” for the fifth consecutive year and was listed among the world’s top 7 trending destinations for 2024 by the global travel platform Tripadvisor.
Foreign tourists are excited to visit Tra Que vegetable village. Photo: H. An
Recently, Tra Que Vegetable Village (Hoi An) was recognized as one of the “Best Tourism Villages” of 2024 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It was the only destination in Vietnam to receive this honor this year.
Additionally, many tourism businesses in Quang Nam were proud recipients of international awards.
Nguyen Thanh Hong, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Quang Nam, stated that these optimistic signs demonstrate a robust recovery and strong growth in the tourism sector following the Covid-19 pandemic. This provides a solid foundation for the province’s tourism industry to attract even more domestic and international tourists in the coming years.
Vietnam has been honored as one of the 40 most beautiful countries in the world in 2024, according to a recent ranking by the American magazine US News & World Report.
Based on evaluations from over 17,000 travelers worldwide and experienced experts, US News & World Report scored each country on a scale of 100.
Photo: The Times
Vietnam ranked 36th on the list, standing out in categories such as delicious cuisine (63.7 points), unique attractions (64.3), rich history (48), stunning natural landscapes (45.2), and friendliness (43.8).
“The Doi Moi reforms since 1986 have transformed Vietnam into a modern country with increasing competitiveness on the international stage,” remarked the magazine, which has been in publication since 1933.
Additionally, Vietnam appeared on the overall list of the world’s best countries, ranking 44th, and was also recognized among the best countries for adventure travel.
Photo: Asian SEA Story
Topping the list of the most beautiful countries in the world this year is Greece.
Headquartered in the United States, US News & World Report is a renowned media company known for its news publications, advice, rankings, and consumer analysis.
UNESCO will send a team of experts to Vietnam to assess potential risks to the conservation of Ha Long Bay amid concerns that development projects may threaten the heritage site, according to Reuters.
Aerial view of Ha Long Bay. Photo: Precious Memories Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay and the Cat Ba Archipelago are celebrating 30 years since being inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The site is famous as “the most outstanding example of a karst tower landscape invaded by the sea.”
UNESCO recognition has significantly boosted Ha Long Bay’s profile as a major tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors annually and generating substantial revenue for Vietnam’s tourism sector.
However, in a statement from UNESCO’s World Heritage Center, the organization expressed long-standing concerns that “numerous new tourism and coastal residential projects in Ha Long City have been approved and implemented” without adequate assessment of their impacts on the heritage site.
Ha Long attracts tourists with cruises on the bay. Photo: Filipe Freitas.
If the upcoming evaluation results in sanctions or even removal from the heritage list, it could have profound consequences for Vietnam’s tourism industry, which contributes an estimated 8% to the country’s GDP in 2023.
UNESCO stated: “If threats are identified that jeopardize the integrity of the site and the reasons for its inclusion on the World Heritage List, the Committee may request remedial measures to strengthen the site’s protection.”
The assessment team, composed of experts from UNESCO and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is expected to carry out their mission in the coming months.
Nuno Ribeiro, a senior lecturer in tourism at RMIT University Vietnam, remarked that overdevelopment “threatens the unique natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecological balance of the bay—key factors for its UNESCO recognition.”
“The warning about remedial measures should not be taken lightly,” he added.
Currently, Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Foreign Affairs have not responded to Reuters’ requests for comment. The Quang Ninh provincial government, which oversees Ha Long Bay, has also yet to issue an official statement.
For the New Year’s Eve celebration of 2025, Ho Chi Minh City will host fireworks displays at two locations: the Saigon River Tunnel (Thu Duc City) and Dam Sen Cultural Park (District 11). Meanwhile, Hanoi will have fireworks at five locations (six firing points) in Hoan Kiem, Ha Dong, Nam Tu Liem, Son Tay, and Dong Anh.
People watch fireworks at a location in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: TL
Recently, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee announced plans for cultural and artistic activities to welcome 2025, including fireworks displays scheduled from midnight to 12:15 AM on January 1, 2025.
The high-altitude fireworks will take place at the Saigon River Tunnel area in Thu Duc City, while low-altitude displays are planned for Dam Sen Cultural Park in District 11.
In addition, the city will host other activities such as countdown events on December 31, 2024, at Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street (District 1), Bach Dang Wharf Park, and the floating Saigon River logo area.
Ho Chi Minh City will also feature artistic performances across various districts, including Tan Phu, Binh Tan, District 12, Binh Chanh, Hoc Mon, Cu Chi, Nha Be, and Can Gio, on the nights of December 31, 2024, and January January 1, 2025.
Sports events include the 11th HCMC Marathon 2025, the Ho Chi Minh City International Martial Arts Festival, and an amateur cycling race to welcome the new year along Mai Chi Tho Street (from Dong Van Cong intersection to the old toll station at the Saigon River Tunnel ).
In Hanoi, the city will organize fireworks at five locations (six firing points) in Hoan Kiem, Ha Dong, Nam Tu Liem, Son Tay, and Dong Anh, also scheduled from midnight to 12:15 AM on January 1, 2025.
Earlier, the Hanoi People’s Committee issued Plan 362 outlining celebrations for major national holidays and significant historical and political events in 2025.
City-level activities will include visual decorations and propaganda throughout the city, illumination of central streets through socialization and partial state funding, and artistic countdown performances on the night of December 31 at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square and August Revolution Square.
Other activities include cultural, artistic, and sports performances at My Dinh Stadium, central areas in Ha Dong and Tay Ho districts, and Son Tay town to welcome the new year. Film screenings and mobile movie shows will be organized for the public, especially in suburban areas. Performances will also take place around Hoan Kiem Lake, including at Nha Bat Giac, the entrance to Cong Nhan Cinema, and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.
At the district level, cultural and artistic activities will be held at public locations, along with visual propaganda and decorations to serve local residents.
Frost has appeared for the second time this winter on Fansipan’s summit, with temperatures plummeting to -1°C on December 23. Thin layers of frost-covered trees, wooden walkways, and paths early in the morning, persisting for about four hours before melting under the sun.
This phenomenon, caused by moisture freezing into solid, salt-like formations, occurs when air temperatures drop below 4°C. Fansipan, at 3,143 meters above sea level, experienced its first sub-zero temperature of the season, following an earlier frost event on November 20 when temperatures reached 2°C.
With forecasts predicting continued low temperatures, more frosty mornings are expected. Sa Pa, a top destination in northern Vietnam, is leveraging its winter charm to attract visitors with seasonal events like the Fansipan Succulent Festival, the Vietnam Mountain Marathon, and the Cherry Blossom Festival at O Long tea hills.
Officially launching on December 22, Metro Line 1 offers residents and visitors a convenient, eco-friendly way to explore the city’s rich heritage and vibrant attractions. Spanning 19.7 kilometers with 14 stations, the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien route seamlessly links the city’s central and eastern areas, providing easy access to its most celebrated sites.
The journey begins at Ben Thanh Station, located in the city center, serving as the gateway to landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market, the Opera House, the City Hall, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the Fine Arts Museum. From Ba Son Station, visitors can reach the Ton Duc Thang Museum, an institution honoring the life and contributions of President Ton Duc Thang to Vietnam’s independence and global peace efforts.
Thao Dien Station opens the door to exploring the modern and cosmopolitan Thao Dien area, home to the Quang Sang Museum, a private collection showcasing unique historical and artistic artifacts. For those interested in the region’s cultural heritage, this museum is a must-visit.
Further along, Long Binh Station provides access to the Ben Noc Memorial Temple, located in Long Binh Ward. Built in 2009 by the Thu Duc City government, this site pays homage to President Ho Chi Minh, revolutionary heroes, and martyrs who dedicated their lives to Vietnam’s liberation and unification.
Crowds of locals and tourists lined up to experience the Metro Line 1
Near Suoi Tien Station, visitors can explore the Hung Kings Memorial and the Temple of Nguyen Huu Canh, both located within the Ethnic Cultural and Historical Park. These significant landmarks celebrate Vietnam’s storied past and are essential stops for anyone seeking to understand the history of southern Vietnam. Nearby, the Buu Long Pagoda, recognized by National Geographic as one of the world’s most beautifully designed Buddhist structures, awaits discovery.
The launch of the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line is expected to boost Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism industry while encouraging greater adoption of public transportation, marking a transformative step for the city’s future.
Upon arriving in Hanoi, Western content creator Logan Moffitt made his first stop at a local restaurant to savor a steaming bowl of rare beef pho topped with fragrant green onions.
Interestingly, this dish also marked his final meal before bidding farewell to the Vietnamese capital.
A Taste for Adventure
For many foreign visitors, Hanoi is not just a destination but a culinary adventure. Its vibrant food culture offers both traditional flavors and dishes considered “unusual” or “daring” by some. Logan, an American YouTuber with over 1.08 million followers, is no stranger to culinary exploration. Known as the “cucumber guy” for his viral cucumber salad recipes, Logan’s passion for food extends beyond his kitchen and into the streets of cities he visits.
In his first-ever trip to Vietnam, Logan documented his culinary experiences in Hanoi, showcasing a deep appreciation for the city’s food scene.
The Love for Pho
On his first evening in Hanoi, Logan visited a pho restaurant on Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho District. He ordered a bowl of rare beef pho and was immediately captivated by its aromatic broth, tender beef, and generous topping of green onions and crisp bean sprouts.
“What I look forward to the most when arriving in Vietnam is enjoying a hot bowl of pho,” Logan shared in his video.
During his five-day trip, Logan visited another well-known pho restaurant on Hang Vai Street, recommended through glowing Google reviews. He described the dish as his favorite in Hanoi, praising the broth’s richness and the fresh green onions.
Before departing Vietnam, Logan made sure to return to the first restaurant he visited, savoring one final bowl of pho. “I had to come back for one last bowl before flying home,” he said.
Discovering Bun Cha and Street Food Wonders
While pho stole the spotlight, bun cha quickly became another favorite. Logan was astounded by the dish’s harmonious blend of smoky grilled pork, tangy dipping sauce, and fresh herbs.
“I can’t believe I’ve never tried this before. I feel like I’ve missed out all these years,” he exclaimed after his first bite.
Logan enjoyed bun cha multiple times throughout his stay, often stopping at random eateries or taking portions to-go. Other street food delights such as banh cuon, pho cuon, and banh mi also found their way onto his must-try list, each leaving a memorable impression.
Coffee Culture: 4-5 Cups a Day
No trip to Hanoi is complete without diving into its renowned coffee culture. Logan became enamored with Vietnamese coffee, sampling different styles multiple times a day—egg coffee, iced milk coffee, coconut coffee, and silver coffee, among others.
The YouTuber expressed his amazement at the variety and richness of Hanoi’s coffee offerings, claiming it was unlike anything he’d tasted before.
A Memorable Culinary Journey
Logan’s culinary adventure in Hanoi wasn’t just about food—it was an exploration of culture, tradition, and the warmth of local hospitality. From iconic bowls of pho to endless cups of coffee, his journey reflects the deep culinary charm that Hanoi offers every visitor.
As Logan shared with his audience, “Hanoi is not just a city; it’s a sensory experience. Every dish tells a story, and every cup of coffee feels like a moment worth savoring.”
Ho Chi Minh City is alive with the festive spirit, as dazzling lights and vibrant decorations illuminate every corner, welcoming the joy and warmth of Christmas. From bustling streets to lively entertainment hubs, the city has transformed into a colorful wonderland, offering locals and visitors unforgettable holiday experiences.
Notre Dame Cathedral (District 1) shimmering with lights at night attracts the attention of many locals and tourists. Photo: Le Lam Nhat Tan
Major streets like Lê Lợi, Nguyễn Huệ, and Đồng Khởi, along with the downtown area of District 1, are adorned with twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive displays featuring Santa Claus, falling snow, and reindeer. Beyond the city’s central streets, smaller alleys, cafes, and shops are equally adorned with glowing decorations, fresh flowers, and creative holiday designs, spreading a festive ambiance throughout.
In addition to its stunning decor, Ho Chi Minh City hosts a variety of Christmas-themed events and activities. Major shopping malls have organized concerts, performances, and exclusive holiday promotions, creating opportunities for everyone to join in the celebrations.
Churches such as Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and Tân Định Church in District 1 are drawing crowds for Christmas Mass, as families and friends gather to pray for peace and happiness in the coming year. Whether local or international, visitors find the city to be a perfect destination to soak up the holiday atmosphere.
This Christmas, Ho Chi Minh City is not only a dynamic and modern metropolis but also a city of love and community connection. Every street and corner exudes the warmth of the holiday season, making it a perfect time to share joy, exchange heartfelt wishes, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.
According to data from Agoda, during the 2025 New Year’s holiday, cities in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hanoi, and Nha Trang are the top destinations attracting international tourists.
Foreign tourists in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Dat Thanh
During the 2025 New Year’s holiday, the search for accommodations in Vietnam by international tourists increased by 30% compared to the previous year. The countries with the highest number of visitors to Vietnam during this period include South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan (China), and the United States.
Among the top 5 popular destinations, Ho Chi Minh City continues to hold the top position as the most “sought-after” destination. Phu Quoc climbed to second place, rising three spots from last year.
Da Nang, Hanoi, and Nha Trang remain familiar destinations for international visitors. Notably, Nha Trang has returned to the top 5, surpassing Phan Thiet, and has become a popular choice for those seeking a relaxing beach holiday.
Meanwhile, for the domestic tourism market, Ho Chi Minh City remains in the lead, followed by Da Lat, Vung Tau, Hanoi, and the coastal city of Nha Trang.
During the same New Year’s holiday period, the international destinations most searched for by Vietnamese tourists include Bangkok (Thailand), Taipei (Taiwan, China), Tokyo (Japan), Singapore, and Hong Kong (China), reflecting the preference of Vietnamese travelers for vibrant and modern cities in the region.
