The second Me Linh Flower Festival, themed “Me Linh Blooming with Colors,” is scheduled to run for four days, from December 26 to 29.
According to the Me Linh District People’s Committee in Hanoi, the festival will be held at the central square of the district’s administrative center.
Organizers say the event aims to honor the value of the local flower-cultivating craft villages, promote the district’s unique beauty and tourism potential, and toward work establishing the Flower Festival as an annual hallmark of Me Linh and Hanoi tourism.
At the end of December, Me Linh district organized the Flower Festival. Photo: Anh Tuan
This year’s Flower Festival is not only a vibrant cultural and tourism event but also an occasion to reflect on the history and cultural heritage of the Me Linh region.
The displays and installations will combine traditional imagery with modern lighting technology, creating spaces that are both timeless and innovative, promising visitors unique and memorable experiences.
In addition to flower exhibitions and showcases, the festival will feature numerous lively community activities. The opening ceremony will include performances by popular singers such as Hoa Minzy and Duc Phuc.
Over the four-day festival, visitors can enjoy a variety of meaningful programs such as a recycled-material flower bicycle decoration contest, painting competitions, crafting a giant flower mosaic, and an ao dai fashion show.
Notably, during the festival, Me Linh District will collaborate with the Hanoi Center for Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion to host a trade promotion fair. This event will showcase over 100 booths, linking local tourism, culture, and commerce.
During all days of the New Year and Lunar New Year (Tet) holidays for the Year of the Snake 2025, historical sites managed by the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports will remain open to welcome visitors and tourists.
The Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports has recently released a plan to organize cultural, artistic, sports activities, and manage festivals during the New Year and Lunar New Year holidays for 2025.
As part of this plan, all historical sites under the department’s management will be open to the public throughout the holiday period.
The Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam at night becomes sparkling and magical, giving visitors a new experience. Photo: Vuong Loc
According to the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports’ official website, the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy will offer nighttime tours, exhibitions, traditional folk games, and the annual Spring Calligraphy Festival.
At the Ngoc Son Temple, visitors can enjoy the “Mystical Night at Ngoc Son” artistic program, highlighted by a re-enactment of King Le returning the treasured sword to the Golden Turtle on a royal boat.
The Hoa Lo Prison Relic will host nighttime experiential tours under the themes “Sacred Night,” “Living Like Blossoms,” and “Youthful Flames,” alongside meetings with historical testimony and special thematic exhibitions.
The Hanoi Museum will organize exhibitions, thematic displays, traditional education activities, seminars, discussions, and cultural and historical events for visitors.
The People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue recently announced that the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has officially recognized the Hue Nam Temple Festival and Van Cu Vermicelli-Making Craft as part of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Hon Chen Temple Festival in Hue. Photo: Hieu Truong
According to the Government Online Newspaper, on December 11, the People’s Committee Office of Thua Thien Hue revealed that the Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism issued a decision to include the Hue Nam Temple Festival (Huong Tho Commune, Hue City) and the Van Cu Vermicelli-Making Craft (Huong Toan Commune, Huong Tra Town) in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
The Hue Nam Temple Festival, also known as Hon Chen Temple Festival, is a traditional practice dedicated to the worship of the Holy Mother Thien Y A Na. Held annually in the third and seventh lunar months, the festival is characterized by its lively atmosphere and attracts thousands of followers of the Mother Goddess worship tradition, making it a unique cultural hallmark of the ancient capital.
The festival not only preserves and promotes the cultural values associated with the Hue Nam Temple relic but also contributes to enhancing the tourism appeal of Thua Thien Hue. Additionally, it is closely linked to the Mother Goddess Tam Phu worship belief system, which UNESCO has recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Meanwhile, the Van Cu Vermicelli-Making Craft boasts over 400 years of history and is famous for its ivory-white vermicelli with a distinct flavor. Currently, more than 100 households in the village participate in production, supplying vermicelli to markets, restaurants, and eateries nationally, providing a stable source of income for the local community.
This recognition not only affirms the heritage value of Thua Thien Hue but also serves as a motivation to preserve and develop the region’s rich cultural traditions.
Entrepreneurs considering global expansion often encounter distinct challenges and opportunities across different markets. Vietnam, a fast-growing emerging market, presents a unique contrast comparing to countries like France or the USA.
This article explores the latest business landscape in these countries for 2024 and offers predictions for 2025 to help entrepreneurs make strategic decisions.
Market Maturity and Opportunities
The United States and France are prime examples of mature markets. In 2024, both countries remain competitive, with industries characterized by saturation and high barriers to entry. For instance, a report by the OECD Economic Outlook 2024 highlights that nearly 70% of startups in France face regulatory and operational hurdles, reducing their chances of long-term survival. Similarly, in the USA, industries like retail and technology are driven by innovation, leaving little room for small-scale newcomers without substantial R&D investment.
Vietnam, by contrast, continues its upward trajectory as an emerging market. The country’s GDP growth rate of 6.5% in 2024 is projected to accelerate to 6.8% in 2025, driven by robust export activities and increasing foreign direct investment (FDI), according to the World Bank.
Cost of Doing Business
Cost efficiency remains one of Vietnam’s greatest advantages over developed economies. In 2024, labor costs in Vietnam are among the most competitive in Asia, with average monthly wages for skilled workers ranging between $400 and $600, compared to $3,000 to $5,000 in France or the USA (General Statistics Office of Vietnam). Operational costs, including office rents and utilities, are also significantly lower. A study by Colliers Vietnam found that prime office spaces in Ho Chi Minh City cost 70% less than similar locations in Paris or New York.
Looking ahead to 2025, this cost advantage is expected to persist, although slight increases in wages and utility expenses are anticipated as Vietnam continues its economic development. Conversely, in the USA and France, the rising costs of energy and inflationary pressures are predicted to push operational expenses higher. For instance, PwC France forecasts a 5% increase in statutory social contributions by 2025, further straining payroll budgets for French companies.
Business Culture and Approach
In 2024, the business cultures of France and the USA remain structured and formal. Success in these markets often hinges on strict adherence to legal frameworks and robust contractual agreements. Innovation and individual achievement continue to be central to entrepreneurial success, with both countries offering strong rewards for disruptive ideas that scale globally. However, these structured systems can stifle flexibility, particularly for startups looking to adapt quickly to market changes.
Vietnam’s business culture, on the other hand, emphasizes relationships and adaptability. Trust is often more important than formal contracts, and business leaders prioritize pragmatic solutions over perfection. This approach fosters flexibility but can pose challenges for foreign entrepreneurs accustomed to rigid frameworks. In 2025, as Vietnam integrates more closely with global markets through trade agreements like the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), a gradual shift towards more standardized practices is expected, especially in sectors heavily reliant on international partnerships.
Growth Opportunities
Vietnam’s rapid economic growth and expanding middle class make it a hotspot for new business opportunities. By 2025, the country’s middle class is expected to reach 60 million, according to McKinsey & Company. This demographic shift is driving demand for consumer goods, healthcare, and educational services, creating fertile ground for entrepreneurs. Additionally, Vietnam’s government has committed over $18 billion to infrastructure development projects in 2025, including smart cities and renewable energy initiatives, offering significant opportunities in logistics and clean technology.
In contrast, growth in the USA and France is predicted to remain incremental. Market saturation and fierce competition in 2024 will continue into 2025, forcing businesses to rely heavily on innovation and efficiency to maintain market share. Sectors like AI-driven technology and green energy are likely to dominate new investments in these mature markets.
Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs
Operating in the USA and France in 2024 remains complex due to high regulatory and operational costs. These challenges are expected to intensify in 2025, with stricter environmental regulations and increased inflation contributing to higher compliance costs. For example, businesses in France will face new carbon tax mandates starting in mid-2025, as part of the EU’s Green Deal initiatives.
In Vietnam, the primary challenges stem from regulatory unpredictability and overreliance on personal relationships. While Vietnam is expected to introduce clearer guidelines for foreign businesses by 2025, the informal nature of many business dealings will likely persist. Entrepreneurs may find this both a strength, enabling quick decisions, and a weakness, as it can lead to instability when relationships change.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Southeast Asia
Despite Vietnam’s cost advantages, it is a misconception that doing business here is universally inexpensive. By 2025, higher standards for labor safety and compliance with international certifications are expected to increase operational costs, particularly in export-focused industries. Entrepreneurs should also avoid underestimating the complexity of market entry. Although Vietnam’s regulatory environment is improving, navigating its legal landscape still requires thorough preparation and local expertise.
Similarly, the belief that relationships alone are enough for success is overly simplistic. In 2025, as Vietnam continues to attract international investors, maintaining quality standards and building a professional reputation will be as important as fostering personal connections.
Conclusion
For entrepreneurs weighing their options in 2024 and beyond, Vietnam offers a dynamic environment with rapid growth potential, low costs, and emerging opportunities in key sectors. However, businesses must be prepared to navigate cultural nuances and regulatory ambiguities. By 2025, Vietnam is expected to make strides in standardizing its business practices, aligning more closely with global standards while retaining its competitive edge as an emerging market.
In contrast, France and the USA remain ideal for entrepreneurs with innovative solutions and the resources to compete in mature markets. While these countries provide stability and structured systems, the high costs and slow growth in saturated industries pose significant challenges. Ultimately, understanding the unique dynamics of each market will allow businesses to position themselves for sustainable success in the years to come.
Ninh Binh, a region rich in history and breathtaking natural beauty, has long captivated the hearts of travelers. Beyond well-known attractions like Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Tam Coc-Bich Dong, this former imperial capital also boasts lesser-known yet fascinating destinations. For those seeking a fresh perspective on Ninh Binh, here are some hidden gems you’ll want to explore.
A Sea of White Reed Grass in the Heart of Ninh Binh City
For lovers of romantic and poetic scenery, the reed grass field near Dinh Tien Hoang Square in Ninh Binh City is a must-visit. During its blooming season from October to December, the field transforms into a dreamy white oasis, with swaying grass resembling soft clouds floating in the wind.
The golden hours of sunlight create a picturesque setting perfect for photography. Pair it with a flowing dress, and you’ll have an Instagram-worthy snapshot in no time. The tranquil atmosphere here is ideal for unwinding and finding balance amidst life’s busyness.
Pebble Beach by Khe Coc Island
Nestled along the route to Trang An, the pebble beach near Khe Coc Island offers a serene escape with its untouched beauty. Smooth stones of various sizes are scattered along the riverbank, creating a rustic yet artistic landscape.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings, where clear waters reflect lush green mountains. It’s a perfect backdrop for artistic photos or simply a place to enjoy nature’s calm. A snapshot here, framed by the flowing river and towering mountains, will undoubtedly stand out.
The Bodhi Tree Road Leading to Trang An
The Bodhi Tree Road. (Photo: Thai Ba)
On the road from Ninh Binh City to Trang An, you’ll encounter an enchanting stretch lined with bodhi trees. These lush green trees form a natural tunnel of shade, evoking a sense of peace and charm.
In autumn, the leaves transition from green to golden hues, turning the road into a mesmerizing scene that feels almost cinematic. This picturesque avenue has become a popular choice for wedding photos, thanks to its romantic and serene ambiance. Strolling along this road is a delightful way to connect with nature.
The Vast Pineapple Fields of Tam Diep
Just a 30-minute drive from Ninh Binh City, Tam Diep’s sprawling pineapple fields offer a unique and vibrant photo spot. During harvest season, the golden glow of ripe pineapples stretches as far as the eye can see.
Visitors can engage in hands-on experiences like picking fresh pineapples and savoring their juicy sweetness right in the field. The early morning or late afternoon light adds an ethereal charm, perfect for capturing the essence of rural Vietnam.
Ninh Binh is more than a repository of ancient cultural treasures; it’s a destination that inspires both nature lovers and avid photographers. From the poetic reed grass fields and artistic pebble beaches to the serene bodhi tree road and vibrant pineapple fields, each location holds its unique allure.
Plan your visit, take time to explore, and capture the extraordinary moments this land has to offer. Whether you’re making memories with family, friends, or a significant other, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable journey. Don’t forget to share your experiences, helping to elevate Ninh Binh as a top travel destination for all.
The record trading activity on HyperLiquid’s perpetuals market is characrterized by users recently leaning more toward ether than bitcoin.
Bitcoin (BTC) is not the only one setting milestones. HyperLiquid, the leading on-chain perpetuals trading protocol operating on its custom-built layer 1 blockchain, is setting impressive records, too, with the platform seeing more activity in ether (ETH) than bitcoin.
The cumulative perpetuals volume on the platform has surged past $500 billion, registering a staggering 15-fold year-to-date rise, according to DefiLlama.
The platform has seen an average daily volume of over $5 billion in the past seven days, accounting for over 45% of the total onchain perpetuals market activity of the past 24 hours.
What’s more interesting is that ether, not bitcoin, is leading the boom in activity this week. Since Monday, ether perpetuals have registered a cumulative trading volume of $7 billion. That’s 18% greater than bitcoin’s tally of $5.94 billion, according to data source stats.hyperliquid.xyz.
Ether has also led the growth in the cumulative notional open interest on the platform since late November. At press time, ether perpetuals worth $857.5 million were active, accounting for nearly 25% of the total open interest of $3.49 billion.
The increased activity in ether on HyperLiquid represents sticky capital that could fuel the next leg up in the second-largest cryptocurrency by market value. As of writing, ETH was changing hands at $3,900, representing a 70% year-to-date gain, CoinDesk data shows.
The success stems from HyperLiquid being a purpose-specific protocol rather than a general all-purpose chain, according to some observers.
“HyperLiquid’s success appears rooted in prioritizing product-market fit, blending institutional-grade performance with DeFi accessibility, such as no KYC requirements. By offering more generous incentives for active traders, Hyperliquid aligns closely with user needs, potentially setting a new standard for future crypto projects,” algorithmic trading firm Wintermute said in a note shared with CoinDesk.
HYPE is bigger than AAVE
Speaking of market action, HyperLiquid’s two-week-old HYPE token is already making waves. The cryptocurrency has surged over 300% since its inception, zooming to a market value of $5.69 billion, bigger than long-established DeFi players like Ethereum’s leading lending protocol Aave and Solana-based decentralized exchanges Raydium and Jupiter, according to data source Coingecko.
The sustained bullish move following the record airdrop is a sign of investor confidence, according to Wintermute.
“Despite the potential for significant sell pressure from the airdrop recipients, the sustained demand for HYPE has consistently outpaced supply, indicating robust market confidence,” Wintermute noted.
On Nov. 29, HyperLiquid airdropped 31% of HYPE’s nearly 1 billion supply to users who held points earned through trading activities. The airdrop was valued at $1.9 billion, surpassing layer 2 solution Arbitrum’s $1.5 billion valuation.
HYPE is used as a staking asset to secure the platform’s HyperBFT consensus mechanism and acts as a gas token, facilitating transactions and smart contract executions.
LINK neared $30 in Asian morning hours Friday, data shows, with open interest (OI) on the token’s futures zooming to record highs above $860 million.
Donald Trump-backed World Liberty Financial just increased its holdings of Chainlink’s LINK token.
The project purchased another $1 million worth of LINK late Thursday, data shows, for the second straight day, increasing its LINK stash to $2 million worth of tokens. It additionally brought $246,000 worth of Aave’s AAVE, taking total token holdings to $1.2 million.
LINK is now World Liberty Financial’s fourth-largest holding after ether (ETH), bitcoin (BTC) and tether (USDT).
Backed by the Trump family, World Liberty Financial is a unified platform where users can borrow and lend cryptocurrencies, create liquidity pools and transact with stablecoins. WLFI serves as a governance token for the platform.
It uses data provider Chainlink’s services for better integrating with the wider crypto ecosystem. Chainlink supports the platform by providing crucial pricing data and cross-chain interoperability infrastructure, per a November report.
Chainlink bridges blockchains and off-chain systems, providing smart contracts with access to real-world data, external APIs, and other off-chain resources. LINK tokens, among other are used to pay node operators for their services in retrieving and preparing off-chain data or performing computations.
Part of investor demand for LINK tokens is directly tied to the utility and adoption of Chainlink’s oracle services.
And the market is positively reacting to the Trump-linked purchases — LINK prices are up 22% in the past 7 days and more than 130% since World Liberty Financial first onboarded Chainlink, helping the token reach price levels last seen in early 2021.
LINK neared $30 in Asian morning hours Friday, data shows, with open interest (OI) on the token’s futures zooming to record highs above $860 million.
OI refers to the number of unsettled bets in futures markets. A bump in prices alongside rising OI is generally considered a bullish sign, as it suggests investors are willing to commit new capital to the expectation that the price will continue to rise.
During the 2024 Hanoi Food and Culture Festival, held from November 28 to December 1, visitors were introduced to a groundbreaking experience with “Pho So Ha Thanh,” where a smart robot assisted in cooking and serving Vietnam’s iconic pho. This intelligent robot not only participated in the cooking process but also delivered bowls of pho directly to diners, sparking curiosity and excitement among both locals and tourists eager to try a traditional dish prepared by cutting-edge technology.
Earlier in September 2024, at the HorecFex Vietnam technology and innovation forum for the hospitality sector, a $15,000 tourism robot imported from Hong Kong was showcased at the Ariyana International Convention Center in Da Nang. This robot, equipped to interact with and guide visitors, highlighted the growing role of AI in enhancing guest experiences.
In October 2024, a waiter robot debuted at Premier Pearl Hotel in Vung Tau, drawing attention for its ability to serve food, clear tables, and offer refreshments to guests in the lobby.
AI Applications Beyond Robotics
Robots are only one aspect of AI’s application in Vietnam’s tourism industry. In recent years, businesses and local authorities have increasingly embraced digital transformation and AI to stay ahead of trends and enhance service delivery.
Among the most popular AI tools is the chatbot, which interacts with customers across platforms like Messenger, Zalo, WhatsApp, and official websites. These bots provide instant support, answering frequently asked questions about flights, accommodations, services, and prices. Leveraging AI, chatbots analyze customer behavior to offer personalized recommendations for destinations, tours, and travel itineraries, while also communicating in multiple languages to cater to international visitors.
AI is also pivotal in processing and analyzing customer data. Advanced algorithms filter and identify travel preferences and habits, enabling businesses to anticipate trends and adapt strategies to meet customer needs. This technology helps optimize pricing strategies, ensuring competitive rates that attract customers while maximizing profits.
Moreover, AI supports tourism enterprises in managing distribution channels. Platforms like Traveloka and Agoda utilize AI to dynamically adjust prices, streamline inventory management, and enhance revenue strategies. Automated systems monitor global distribution networks, update prices, and refine distribution plans to maximize profitability.
A Promising Future
AI’s applications extend beyond pricing and logistics. The technology is also being used to create and optimize content, such as images, videos, and service descriptions, to attract target audiences. This capability improves marketing efforts and enhances customer engagement across various platforms.
Looking ahead, AI is expected to play an increasingly vital role in Vietnam’s tourism industry. From personalizing travel experiences and minimizing security risks to optimizing passenger distribution and crafting detailed itineraries, AI holds immense potential to transform the sector.
AI also empowers businesses to refine promotional materials, websites, and marketing content, enabling them to effectively reach diverse customer demographics both domestically and internationally.
As AI becomes more prevalent in Vietnam’s tourism sector, it opens up exciting opportunities for innovation and growth. This technological advancement promises to drive Vietnam’s tourism industry toward a more sustainable, efficient, and customer-centric future.
The People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City has issued a plan to organize the 45th Tao Dan Spring Flower Festival and the Lunar New Year Flower Market 2025.
Accordingly, the Spring Flower Festival for the Lunar New Year of 2025, themed “A Beautiful Homeland, Joyful Spring of Peace”, is scheduled to take place over 10 days, from January 24, 2025 (the 25th day of the lunar December) to February 2, 2025 (the 5th day of Tet). The event will be held at Tao Dan Park.
The festival will feature an exhibition and competition showcasing artistic floral creations, with over 2,620 high-quality exhibits in various categories, including:
Apricot blossoms
Bonsai
Miniature landscapes and rock gardens
Orchids
Adeniums
Ornamental fish, aquariums, and terrariums
Combined ornamental plants, fruit-bearing trees, and rare species
Decorative stones and driftwood.
Additionally, the festival will host a three-day songbird competition from January 25 to January 27, 2025 (equivalent to the 26th to 28th day of lunar December). Traditional Tet activities such as lion and dragon dances, traditional martial arts, folk performing arts (puppetry, folk music, etc.), folk games, circus and magic shows, painting and art exhibitions, craft-making activities for children and teenagers, Vietnamese calligraphy, tea ceremonies, culinary culture displays, and daily themed music performances will also be held.
People go to the flower market on the wharf and under the boat in District 8 (Photo: Minh Tan)
The Lunar New Year Flower Market 2025 will be organized at multiple venues, including:
Three public parks: September 23rd Park, Le Van Tam Park, and Gia Dinh Park.
A location in Thu Duc City.
The “Floating Flower Market” in District 8.
The Tet Flower Market at Binh Dien Market.
The Flower Market and Flower Street in Phu My Hung (District 7).
The flower market will run from January 22, 2025 (the 23rd day of lunar December) to 12:30 PM on January 28, 2025 (the 29th day of lunar December).
According to statistics, Kon Tum province ranks second in the Central Highlands region (after Lam Dong) in terms of tourist arrivals.
On December 11, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Kon Tum province organized the Kon Tum Tourism Promotion and Advertisement Conference for 2024.
This event is part of the activities marking the 5th Culture-Tourism Week and the 2nd Festival of Gongs and Xoang Dance of the Kon Tum ethnic people in 2024.
Kon Tum province tourism promotion conference in 2024
Statistics indicate that in 2023, Kon Tum welcomed 1.3 million visitors, including 5,000 international tourists. By 2024, the total number of visitors is expected to reach 2.3 million, with international arrivals increasing to 8,500. This makes Kon Tum the second most-visited province in the Central Highlands region, after Lam Dong. To date, Kon Tum has officially recognized 13 tourist sites and one provincial-level tourism area.
Mang Den night economic zone shimmers in the lights among the pine forest
Kon Tum is actively surveying and assessing new potential tourist sites to expand tourism types and enhance the province’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
From 2022 to the present, Kon Tum has supported and guided more than 110 investors and businesses, attracting 18 new projects with a total investment of over VND 2,214 billion. Of these, Kon Tum City accounts for 16 projects with a total registered capital of over VND 1,336 billion, while Kon Plong District has two projects with a total registered capital of over VND 877 billion.
To make tourism a spearhead economic sector by 2030, Kon Tum plans to boost ecology and resort tourism in areas such as Mang Den, Ngoc Linh, and Chu Mom Ray; develop community-based tourism; and leverage the cultural values of ethnic areas.
Additionally, the province aims to implement 153 projects, including 40 in trade, services, and tourism, to better meet tourist demands. There will be a focus on improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing connectivity to key tourist destinations such as the Bo Y International Border Gate and Mang Den.
At the conference, Mr. Pham Van Thuy, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, remarked that Kon Tum boasts a cool climate, a unique and diverse ecosystem, and rich cultural heritage from various ethnic groups. However, he noted that the province’s infrastructure remains underdeveloped, the quality of its tourism workforce is insufficient, and its tourism products are neither diverse nor attractive enough to fully capitalize on the province’s potential and strengths.
Vietnamese tourists prefer destinations with cool climates or coastal locations for the Lunar New Year of 2025, according to Booking.com.
Young people take photos in Ao Dai in front of Ben Thanh Market (HCMC) on January 1. Photo: Linh Huynh.
On December 12, the online travel platform Booking.com revealed the most searched destinations by Vietnamese tourists for this year’s Lunar New Year holiday. The data was collected from searches made between November 28 and December 5, with check-in dates ranging from January 24, 2025, to February 9, 2025 (the 25th day of the 12th lunar month to the 12th day of the first lunar month of the Year of the Snake).
For domestic destinations, Vietnamese travelers favor locations with cool weather and coastal areas for the New Year holiday.
Specifically, Da Lat continues to lead the list of favorite domestic destinations, with a 300% increase in searches compared to last year. This picturesque highland city offers stunning natural landscapes, a cool climate, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
Coastal destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc remain popular among beach lovers and enthusiasts of water sports.
Nha Trang beach began to get crowded from the afternoon of April 27 when the temperature gradually cooled down. Photo: Tuong Vi.
Meanwhile, major cities like Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi are favored for their rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scenes.
For those seeking a tranquil environment, Vung Tau provides a serene beach experience. Hoi An and Sa Pa are also ideal choices for exploring ancient temples, picturesque scenery, and diverse cultural heritage.
With 75% of Vietnamese tourists expressing a preference for destinations with cool daytime weather, these domestic locations offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
On the international front, Southeast Asian countries remain popular among Vietnamese travelers due to their geographic proximity, cultural similarities, and visa-free policies.
Tourists check in at a row of yellow ancient houses in Hoi An. Photo: Pham Thang.
Bangkok (Thailand) continues to top the list of the most searched international destinations, with a 100% increase in searches compared to the same period last year. Tokyo (Japan) and Phuket (Thailand) follow closely behind.
Additionally, an increasing number of Vietnamese tourists are showing interest in unique experiences, as seen in the inclusion of Dubai (UAE) in the list of favorite destinations, with an 80% rise in searches compared to the previous year.
Varun Grover, Country Director for Booking.com in Vietnam, noted that travelers are blending familiar, beloved destinations with newer, more exciting ones, whether it’s cool highlands, vibrant coastal cities, or tranquil retreats.
“It is clear that Vietnamese tourists are seeking destinations that allow them to connect with nature, their loved ones, and themselves. We are committed to enhancing travel experiences, making it easier for travelers to explore Vietnam and the world in the Year of the Snake,” said Varun.
In celebration of the Da Lat Flower Festival and New Year’s 2025, the railway sector is hosting a series of free activities for visitors at Da Lat Station and on the Da Lat – Trai Mat vintage train route.
According to the Railway Transport Joint Stock Company, from December 10 to January 1, 2025, passengers on the Da Lat – Trai Mat train route will enjoy complimentary live music performances on all train trips. The train operates daily with the DL3/DL4 and DL9/DL10 services, with additional trips DL7/DL8 and DL11/DL12 running on weekends. Guests will also be offered complimentary tea and light refreshments on board.
From December 10 to January 1, 2025, visitors on the Da Lat – Trai Mat train route will enjoy free music performances on all trains.
Ticket prices for the Da Lat – Trai Mat route range from 60,000 VND to 150,000 VND per trip. Numerous attractive promotions are available, including a 25% discount for round-trip tickets and a 15% to 40% discount for groups of 10 or more. Notably, tour guides accompanying groups will be provided with free tickets.
With a goal of welcoming 9.6 million visitors, the coastal city of Sam Son expects to generate approximately 21 trillion VND in revenue.
This information was shared by Le Van Tu, Chairman of the Sam Son City People’s Committee, at the recent conference reviewing tourism activities in 2024 and outlining tasks for 2025.
Aiming to transform Sam Son into a city of festivals, a hub for premium entertainment, and a leading health and wellness tourism destination in the North Central region, the city is actively implementing key tasks and solutions to maintain its leadership position within the province. Sam Son strives to be an attractive, friendly, and safe destination for tourists.
To achieve these goals, Sam Son plans to focus on comprehensive measures, strengthening the effectiveness of state management in tourism services, diversifying tourism products to attract more visitors, and extending tourism activities throughout the year. The city will also improve communication, promotion, and workforce quality to create a significant breakthrough in tourism standards by 2025. Additionally, Sam Son will continue to enhance inspections and monitoring, promptly addressing violations such as pressing tourists into buying services, overpricing, or resisting law enforcement.
In the final months of 2024 and early 2025, Sam Son will carry out urban beautification efforts, clearing street vendors and kiosks encroaching on sidewalks as part of a planned commercial arrangement. Policies will also be implemented to encourage businesses to renovate, upgrade, and modernize their facilities to better serve visitors.
In 2024, Sam Son welcomed 8.86 million tourists, making it one of the districts, towns, and cities with the highest tourist volumes in Vietnam, with an estimated total revenue of 17.1 trillion VND. The city also successfully hosted various cultural, sports, tourism, and festival events, attracting attention from both domestic and international visitors.
Macapuno, not only an economic crop but also a cultural icon, holds a special place in the identity of Tra Vinh’s Cau Ke district. The museum aims to honor the origins of this unique coconut species and showcases its role in the lives of the Kinh, Khmer, and Hoa communities. Exhibits include historical artifacts, stories of local traditions, and life under the shade of the Macapuno palm.
Close-up of the relief in the museum.
A highlight of the museum is the wax statue of Venerable Thach So, who brought Macapuno seeds from Cambodia to Botumasakor Pagoda in Cau Ke, Tra Vinh, in 1924. This act marked the beginning of Macapuno cultivation in Vietnam. The first two trees successfully bore fruit, paving the way for this rare delicacy to flourish in the region. Thanks to the monk’s efforts, many local families have improved their livelihoods while preserving the cultural heritage tied to this unique coconut variety.
The Macapuno Museum is more than a historical archive; it enriches the cultural and tourism landscape of Tra Vinh. It provides a platform for residents, tourists, researchers, and collectors from across the globe to delve into the history of Macapuno and the cultural tapestry of the region. This cultural hub stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Macapuno palm and its integral role in shaping the lives and traditions of Tra Vinh’s diverse communities.
Since 2011, KKR, one of the world’s leading investment funds managing assets worth $528 billion, has invested over $1 billion in Vietnamese companies. Notable deals include Masan Consumer, Vinhomes, KiotViet, and EQuest Education Group, showcasing its strategic focus on Vietnam’s dynamic market.
On December 10, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed Mr. David Petraeus, a co-owner of KKR. During the meeting, the Prime Minister acknowledged KKR’s significant contributions to Vietnam’s economic development through high-impact investments.
Success Stories in Vietnam
KKR’s approach to the Vietnamese market has been marked by lucrative short-term investments. Its first foray was the Masan Consumer (MCH) deal, where it invested $359 million for an 18% stake. By 2016, KKR exited the investment, reportedly doubling its capital.
Another notable success was with Masan Group (MSN), where KKR invested $100 million and earned $209 million upon divestment. Similarly, in 2020, KKR led a $650 million investment in Vinhomes (VHM), acquiring over 6.6% equity. Within a year, Viking Asia Holdings II PTE. LTD, a KKR affiliate, divested part of its stake, earning a profit of approximately VND 1,070 billion (~$44 million).
Challenges and Diversification
Despite its successes, KKR faced challenges, such as its investment in Masan MeatLife (MML). The $150 million investment in 2017 resulted in a $38 million loss upon divestment.
Beyond consumer goods and real estate, KKR has diversified into education and technology. It invested $22 million in EQuest Education Group, now holding nearly 55% of the organization through Equinox II PTE.LTD. In 2021, KKR led a $45 million Series B funding round for KiotViet, a tech platform supporting small and medium enterprises.
Future Prospects
In 2023, KKR reportedly negotiated with Singapore-based Heliconia Capital, owned by Temasek Holdings, to acquire Saigon Medical Group (MSG), Vietnam’s largest private eye hospital chain. While the deal’s completion remains unconfirmed, it underscores KKR’s continued interest in Vietnam’s healthcare sector.
KKR’s track record in Vietnam demonstrates its ability to identify and capitalize on high-growth opportunities, contributing to the country’s economic transformation while reinforcing its position as a leading global investor.
