This development highlights the efforts of Quang Binh’s tourism sector in connecting with and promoting itself to the South Korean market in recent times.
According to the Quang Binh Department of Tourism, the agency has collaborated with local tourism businesses to welcome the first group of tourists from Chungcheong, South Korea.
During their visit to Quang Binh, the groups will explore iconic attractions such as Phong Nha Cave, Paradise Cave, and the Chay River – Dark Cave area, as well as experience the region’s unique cuisine and hospitality.
Members of the group enjoyed their experience at Quang Phu sand hill (Dong Hoi, Quang Binh)
Mr. Park Sill, a representative of the tourist group from Chungcheong, shared: “This is our first time in Quang Binh. We find the people here incredibly warm and the natural scenery breathtaking. I believe that more and more South Korean tourists will visit Quang Binh in the future.”
From now until the Lunar New Year 2025, through connections made by tourism organizations, over 100 South Korean tourists are expected to visit Quang Binh.
Earlier, in July, the Quang Binh Department of Tourism organized a destination survey program for representatives of major airlines and travel agencies in Chungcheong (South Korea).
Tourism units in Quang Binh welcome groups to stay
Key collaborators included Hana Travel Club, Hana Tour, Ever Tour, Mirea Tourism, New Star, ERO K Airlines, Beomhan Air Travel, and others. These efforts aim to promote Quang Binh, establish connections, and attract more tourists from the South Korean market to the region.
On the afternoon of December 4, Znews cited the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s announcement that Temu, the cross-border e-commerce platform, has temporarily ceased providing services in Vietnam. This decision follows a request from the Ministry after working with Temu’s representatives.
According to the Ministry, orders placed on Temu are currently ineligible for customs clearance in Vietnam due to the platform’s lack of proper licensing. Customs authorities will only process import and export goods traded via Temu once it obtains official approval from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
In terms of consumer protection, the Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy (under the Ministry of Industry and Trade) emphasized its ongoing collaboration with the Competition Commission to ensure cross-border e-commerce platforms comply with their responsibilities toward Vietnamese consumers.
This regulatory action follows the Ministry’s demand for Temu to complete the necessary legal procedures to operate in Vietnam. At the October government press conference, Deputy Minister Nguyen Hoang Long warned that Temu’s application and domain name could be blocked if it failed to register by November.
As of December 4, several users in Vietnam reported undelivered orders placed on Temu since November. The platform has not issued any detailed updates to customers regarding the service suspension or order delays.
Ngoc Ha, a Hanoi-based user, shared her experience of ordering clothes on November 9 but has yet to receive them. The Temu app only shows the order as “being shipped” with a generic delay notice citing force majeure and other conditions.
Two days ago, Ha noted that the Temu app interface had switched to English without prior notice. She also mentioned that friends had received notifications suggesting their packages might be lost, with refunds offered for prepaid orders.
Additionally, some customers observed changes to the platform’s affiliate marketing links, which now redirect users to the app’s download page on the App Store or Google Play instead of the intended product pages.
The situation highlights growing concerns over regulatory compliance and consumer protection as Vietnam seeks to tighten oversight of cross-border e-commerce platforms.
Major Chinese toy companies have seen significant stock market gains this year. Pop Mart, the Beijing-based owner of iconic brands like Labubu and Molly, witnessed a 350% surge in its share value, reaching a market capitalization of $15.2 billion. Other firms, such as Alpha Group and Wahlap Technology, have similarly benefited, with their shares rising by 26% and 60%, respectively, thanks to their anime and entertainment-related products.
Collectibles, known as guzi in Chinese, range from dolls and trading cards to IP-themed art prints. While some items are priced under ¥10 (roughly $1.40), premium editions can sell for over ¥15,000 ($2,000). These collectibles are not just toys—they’ve become an adult-focused art industry and a status symbol among enthusiasts.
Photo: Bloomberg
Pop Mart has capitalized on the blind box trend, where customers purchase mystery boxes containing random collectible items. This segment alone is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 5.5%, reaching $3.8 billion by 2032. Beyond blind boxes, anime-inspired goods and other IP-driven merchandise have further diversified company revenues. For instance, Wahlap Technology has leveraged China’s burgeoning “2D culture”—an aesthetic rooted in anime, manga, and video games originating from Japan—to create derivative IP products for younger consumers.
Cultural and Economic Trends Shape the Industry
The rise of blind boxes aligns seamlessly with broader economic trends in China, including the “surprise economy,” “loneliness economy,” and “social economy.” Specifically, the surprise economy thrives on delivering unexpected joy to consumers through products like blind boxes and exclusive collectibles. Meanwhile, the loneliness economy emerged during the pandemic, as consumers increasingly sought emotional connections through virtual interactions, robotic companions, or blind box collections. In addition, the social economy fosters community-building among niche groups, with fan-driven online communities actively exchanging, trading, and celebrating collectibles like Labubu and Molly.
According to Citic Securities, the market for art toys and animation-related merchandise in China could surpass ¥500 billion, driven by increasing cultural confidence, deep IP development, and strong consumer engagement. Companies like Mango Excellent Media and Huace Film & TV have expanded their “guzi” product lines, organized comic exhibitions, and launched pop-up events to capture this growing demand.
As China’s consumer culture evolves, the blind box market and collectible toys stand poised for long-term growth, reflecting the nation’s shift toward creative consumerism and emotional engagement.
A wave of resignations has swept through the senior ranks of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s administration, including his Chief of Staff, following the National Assembly’s rejection of his martial law order.
On December 4, the South Korean Presidential Office confirmed that Chief of Staff Chung Jin-suk, National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik, Chief of Policy Office Sung Tae-yoon, and seven other senior officials submitted their resignations. These actions came shortly after President Yoon announced his cabinet’s unanimous decision to rescind the martial law order declared the previous evening.
A Controversial Move
Late on December 3, President Yoon made the unprecedented decision to declare martial law—an action not seen in South Korea for over 40 years. He accused opposition parties of engaging in activities that could benefit North Korea and undermine national security. However, the declaration was met with swift and strong opposition.
In an extraordinary overnight session, the South Korean National Assembly convened to block the martial law order. Their vote effectively ended the measure within six hours, further intensifying political tensions.
Growing Calls for Resignation
The fallout from the martial law declaration has placed significant pressure on President Yoon. Critics have labeled his decision “unconstitutional,” with some lawmakers demanding a detailed explanation and his resignation. Protesters gathered outside the National Assembly in Seoul on the morning of December 4, calling for his impeachment and immediate removal from office. Meanwhile, South Korea’s largest labor union announced plans for a strike until President Yoon steps down.
Political Turmoil and Declining Support
Since taking office in 2022 as a member of the conservative People’s Power Party, Yoon Suk-yeol has faced numerous challenges. His presidency has been marked by rising tensions with North Korea, strained relations between the U.S. and China, and a rapidly declining birthrate. Yoon has adopted a hardline stance on North Korea, departing from his predecessor Moon Jae-in’s focus on dialogue and reconciliation, even suggesting preemptive strikes if necessary.
However, his approval ratings have faltered amid ongoing controversies. Recently, prosecutors investigated allegations that Yoon’s wife accepted illegal luxury gifts, further damaging his public image.
The President has yet to comment on the resignations or the growing calls for his departure. A planned public appearance on the morning of December 4 was canceled, leaving South Koreans and the international community awaiting his next move.
The jump has led to higher staking rewards and more ether being burned through transaction fees, the report said.
The Ethereum blockchain’s transactional revenue has increased substantially since Donald Trump’s U.S. election victory, Steno Research said in a Monday report.
“This outcome is crucial for all onchain activity,” wrote analyst Mads Eberhardt.
The surge has led to higher staking rewards and more ether (ETH) being burned via transaction fees, the report said.
“This combination strengthen’s Ethereum’s tokenomics,” Steno said, making ether a more appealing asset.
Steno noted that the amount of USDT on the Ethereum network surpassed supply on the Tron blockchain for the first time in more than two years. This is a clear sign that on-chain activity is booming, resulting in greater demand for ether to facilitate transactions and higher transactional revenue.
The number of daily transactions on Ethereum layer-2 networks, or rollups, is also growing, and Steno said it expects this upward trend to continue.
Rollups are Ethereum protocols that process transactions separately from the main network to help increase speed and lower costs. Layer 2s are separate blockchains built on top of layer 1s, or the base layer, that reduce bottlenecks with scaling and data.
The daily fees the rollups pay to Ethereum are not transformative at the moment, but Steno said it is not unrealistic to estimate that they could reach $1 million, and when this happens it will be a meaningful addition to the network’s economics.
Ether spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S. recorded their largest one-day net inflow to date on Friday, and surpassed bitcoin (BTC) versions for the first time, the report noted.
Whales can move markets with their buying or selling pressure, and tracking this can indicate their market sentiment.
XRP prices have zoomed 430% in the past 30 days, reaching price levels last seen in 2018 and leaving scores of Crypto Twitter traders surprised with the strength. The rise started in early November after the Republican victory in the U.S. election reignited investor confidence in tokens linked to U.S. companies, including XRP’s associated Ripple Labs.
Large holders are playing a key role in contributing to the move. CryptoQuant data shows whale activity – which tracks movements from large wallets to and from exchanges – has been consistently elevated since the past month, multiples higher than any other period.
Whales can move markets with their buying or selling pressure, and tracking this can indicate their market sentiment.
For instance, if the cryptocurrency’s inflow into exchanges (Exchange Inflows) is significant, it might suggest that whales are preparing to sell, potentially signaling a bearish market trend. Conversely, large outflows from exchanges might indicate accumulation by whales, which could be bullish.
However, such whale movements tend to coincide with local peaks, CryptoQuant’s contributing analyst Woominkyu said in a post Monday, as sophisticated participants sell on retail inflows.
“Historically, significant spikes in whale-to-exchange transactions (marked by red circles) align closely with XRP price peaks,” Woominkyu stated. “This suggests that whales tend to move large amounts of XRP to exchanges to sell near local or cycle tops.”
“The latest spike in whale-to-exchange activity coincides with XRP reaching a local price of around $2.3. This could indicate whales preparing for potential profit-taking or increased market activity,” Woominkyu added.
XRP is up 14% in the past 24 hours, outperforming bitcoin and all other crypto majors, according to CoinDesk data. The token flipped Solana’s SOL and tether (USDT) in quick succession over the weekend — standing as the third-largest token by market cap as on Tuesday.
“The most special thing about Vietnam is the abundance of opportunities for collaboration in priority areas such as energy transition, green economy, education, and agriculture between Australian and Vietnamese businesses.” Ms. Louise Adams – Aurecon’s Chief Operating Officer and Australia’s Business Champion for Vietnam – spoke at the press conference in HCMC.
Ms. Louise Adams in the conference
These are also the key areas that Australian investors are seeking in the Vietnamese market under the Australian government’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040. During her visit to Vietnam, Ms. Adams observed that some Vietnamese businesses are looking for energy and digital transition solutions, and Australian businesses and investors are ready for this opportunity.
In the discussion about the Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, Ms. Adams said that an Investment Deal Team was established in HCMC to assist businesses in Southeast Asia as well as Australia in seeking opportunities to develop innovative solutions beyond their home countries. The differences in the business environment of another country will pose certain challenges, and the Investment Deal Team in HCMC will help Australian and Vietnamese businesses better understand each other’s markets. This is one of Australia’s policies aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations with Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam.
The program actively seeks to gather funds from various sources. One example is its initiative to facilitate the National Australia Bank (NAB) in establishing a new office in HCMC to support Australian clients. NAB will continue to attract top technology talent within the bank’s global network.
To strengthen and expand cooperation between the two countries, Austrade has launched the Landing Pad program for technology companies in Vietnam to promote impact investment and highlight opportunities for Australian investors. The Investment Deal Team in HCMC and the Landing Pad will also assist businesses from both countries in understanding registration procedures and trade laws in the host country, enabling them to quickly adapt to the new business environment as well as helping them grow their network.
With an average annual growth rate of 6.7%, Vietnam aims to become a high-income country by 2045, focusing on enhancing the global value chain. This involves transitioning from a fossil-fuel-based, export-oriented manufacturing economy to an advanced technology-driven economy with skilled labor, services, and renewable energy, alongside a commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. These goals present significant opportunities for Australian businesses in this market.
According to the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, Australian businesses have invested in 631 projects in Vietnam, with total registered capital of $2.04 billion. The leading sector is processing and manufacturing, followed by hospitality and food services, and third is agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Meanwhile, as of 2023, Vietnam has invested in 93 projects in Australia with a total registered capital of $586.4 million, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment.
According to the Australian Consulate-General Ho Chi Minh City office, this year marks the first anniversary of Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, the country’s comprehensive policy to significantly increase two-way trade and investment with Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam.
The strategy includes practical measures to increase Australian investment into the region and Vietnam, such as the deployment of Investment Deal Teams across the region, including one in HCMC to identify opportunities for Australian investors, and the establishment of an Investment Financing Facility to catalyse more private sector investment between Australia and the region.
Da Lat ranks fourth in Agoda’s list of the most budget-friendly travel destinations for Christmas and New Year in Asia, with an average hotel price of approximately VND 1.57 million per night.
Tourists check in at a Christmas decoration destination in Da Lat. Photo: Mr. Dung.
Recently, the digital travel platform Agoda released a list of the most affordable year-end destinations, offering travelers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options for the holiday season in Asia.
In Vietnam, Da Lat emerged as the most economical choice, ranking fourth on the list with an average room rate of VND 1.57 million per night.
Agoda describes Da Lat as having a distinctive charm with its cool, crisp mountain climate, making it an ideal getaway for the year-end holidays.
An early morning in Da Lat. Photo: Minh Sang.
According to Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director of Agoda Vietnam, the holiday season is a time of joy, warmth with family and friends, and an opportunity to explore new destinations. However, it is also a period when travel costs typically rise, making budget management a top priority for many travelers.
“We compared hotel prices across 10 key cities in nine countries. In reality, travelers can find even more attractive options, not just in the destinations listed but also in many others on our booking platform,” Lam said.
Topping the rankings is Hat Yai, in southern Thailand, which emerged as the most affordable choice for December travelers, with an average room rate of VND 1.16 million per night.
Nagoya Castle in the city of the same name, Japan. Photo: Mateusz Walendzik, Huu Huynh/Pexels.
Hat Yai’s highlight is the Kim Yong Market, bustling with shopping, entertainment, and stalls offering Christmas gifts and treats.
Following Hat Yai are Surakarta (Indonesia) and Varanasi (India), with average hotel prices of VND 1.19 million and VND 1.24 million per night, respectively.
Nagoya, Japan’s third-largest city, also made it onto the list, with an average accommodation cost of VND 2.7 million.
Agoda notes that visitors to Nagoya can marvel at the grandeur of Nagoya Castle, explore the vibrant Sakae district, and savor the city’s famous cuisine, including Hitsumabushi (grilled eel) and Miso Katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce).
The World Travel Awards has once again recognized Tam Dao (Vinh Phuc) as the “World’s Leading Tourist Town 2024”.
Tourists check in at a singing spot in Tam Dao in November 2023. Photo: @phuongtali_2709.
Recently, at a ceremony held in Madeira, Portugal, the World Travel Awards announced this year’s honorees across various travel categories. Vietnam emerged as one of the most awarded countries.
Tam Dao was awarded the title of “World’s Leading Tourist Town 2024,” marking the second time the northern district of Vinh Phuc Province has received this honor since its first recognition in 2022.
In addition to the World Travel Awards, several travel platforms have also praised this destination. For instance, Travel and Tour World (TTW) highlights Tam Dao’s historical significance, describing it as a summer retreat for French officials in the late 19th century.
Tam Dao has fresh, cool weather similar to Da Lat, according to TTW. Photo: @_lille.09_, @l.td164.
“Today, its tranquil climate and picturesque landscapes continue to attract visitors, especially those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi,” noted the publication.
French-style villas and hotels add to the district’s charm, appealing to history and nature enthusiasts. According to TTW, the recognition by the World Travel Awards is expected to draw even more visitors to Tam Dao.
Additionally, Phu Quoc Island was named the “World’s Leading Island Nature Destination 2024” for the third consecutive year, while Ha Nam Province received the “Special Achievement Award 2024”.
A pristine fishing village in Phu Quoc. Photo: Min On The Go.
TTW described Phu Quoc as a “paradise” for nature lovers, renowned for its pristine beaches, forests, and wildlife, offering an immersive natural experience. This award strengthens Phu Quoc’s growing prominence on the global tourism stage.
“The destination is expected to see record-breaking search interest from global travelers in the near future,” the travel publication noted.
On a national level, Vietnam was named the “World’s Leading Heritage Destination 2024,” surpassing contenders like Armenia, Brazil, Egypt, Greece, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.
This marks the fifth time Vietnam has received this prestigious title, with previous wins in 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023.
A group of billionaire tourists is expected to stay overnight and enjoy kayaking experiences on private beaches in Ha Long Bay.
Ban Chan and Cat Oan beaches in Ha Long Bay were chosen as the places to welcome billionaires at the Art for Climate Halong Bay event. Photo: Pham Ha.
On the afternoon of December 2, Vu Kien Cuong, Head of the Ha Long Bay Management Board, confirmed to Tri Thuc – Znews that Ha Long Bay is set to welcome three groups of global billionaire guests during December and January-February 2025. These visits are part of the Art for Climate – Ha Long Bay 2025 festival.
“The event is currently being organized by Arsuprema, a company specializing in high-value art based in France and Spain, in collaboration with local agencies and departments. For this exclusive clientele, we have initially investigated and proposed Ban Chan and Cat Oan beaches as experience points. Additionally, overnight stays are planned in Tra San and Cong Do areas to meet their requirements. However, these plans remain tentative as these guests are very meticulous and selective about their accommodations and experiences,” shared Mr. Cuong.
The Management Board head revealed that the guests are expected to stay overnight and enjoy signature activities in Ha Long Bay, such as kayaking and swimming on pristine beaches.
International tourists especially love the experience of kayaking in Ha Long Bay. Photo: Pham Ha.
Earlier, Quang Ninh Province announced that Ha Long City will host the Art for Climate – Ha Long Bay Festival. The event is estimated to attract around 80,000 participants, including politicians, artists, environmental activists, investors, and students. Notably, more than 200 billionaires from around the world are set to attend.
On September 16, the festival’s launch ceremony was held at the French Embassy in Vietnam. French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet emphasized that the event serves as a bridge between art and human responsibility for the environment, aiming to raise awareness about protecting the planet.
The festival will feature a series of activities, including a music festival with renowned global artists, workshops on climate change adaptation and marine conservation, art exhibitions and auctions of valuable works, and international culinary events that highlight local cuisine.
To prepare for the festival, the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee has involved relevant units to expedite the development of three beaches—Soi Sim, Hang Co, and Trinh Nu—on Ha Long Bay. Beaches located at the foot of mountains between Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are also being prepared to meet the high standards of billionaire visitors arriving on superyachts.
Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders, is not only a tourism symbol but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its majestic beauty featuring thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters, Ha Long Bay is a favorite destination for both domestic and international visitors.
Selecting Ha Long Bay as the festival’s venue honors the value of art while promoting heritage conservation, climate change adaptation, and environmental protection.
In recent years, this famous Vietnamese heritage site has also become a favorite destination for the global elite, including celebrities, billionaires, and millionaires.
Starting early 2025, Da Nang International Airport will implement a priority lane service at the security screening checkpoint in Terminal 1 for a fee of 100,000 VND per use.
Da Nang Airport deploys priority security screening service. Photo: DIA.
From January 1, 2025, Da Nang Airport will charge passengers for the use of a priority lane at the security screening checkpoint in Terminal 1. This makes Da Nang Airport the first in Vietnam to introduce this service.
The service is available for passengers in the following categories: CIP passengers (those using business-class meet-and-greet services) of Vietnamese airlines, business-class or equivalent passengers of all airlines, and members of loyalty programs of airlines that provide access to priority lanes at security checkpoints.
This service allows passengers to skip long queues, ensuring a faster passage through security checkpoints. It also helps to alleviate congestion during peak hours by streamlining the flow of passengers at security screening. The service fee is set at 100,000 VND per passenger.
According to Phan Kieu Hung, Director of Da Nang International Airport, the paid priority lane service is classified as a non-aviation service. It does not impact the capacity or quality of air transport services and does not alter the security screening procedures. The service compiles with operational regulations and facility usage guidelines.
The paid priority lane service is part of the broader “Fast-Track” offerings widely implemented at international airports such as Heathrow (London), Changi (Singapore), Suvarnabhumi (Bangkok), and Incheon (Seoul). The cost for such services at these airports ranges from $20 to $100 per use, depending on the airport and the specific service package.
Vietnamese travelers are reshaping norms of age, gender, and personal identity, creating new directions for the tourism industry in 2025.
2 male international tourists “hunt” for sunset in Vung Tau. Photo: Linh Huynh.
“Vietnamese travelers are rewriting the travel playbook for 2025,” said Varun Grover, Country Director of Booking.com Vietnam, at the 2025 Travel Trends Predictions event on November 28.
According to the annual report from the online booking platform, Vietnamese tourists are moving beyond traditional leisure travel, aiming to redefine how they experience and connect with the world.
Travel is increasingly seen as a tool for sustainable and long-term personal growth, with Vietnamese tourists seeking rare experiences and breaking free from conventional norms. Many are turning to AI to innovate their itineraries, with 79% of respondents using technology to discover unique, lesser-known destinations and 33% already leveraging real-time AI-powered apps.
53% of tourists said they would visit second-hand stores during their vacation. Photo: Phuong Lam.
To keep these exclusive destinations, 27% of Vietnamese travelers said they avoid tagging locations on social media, hoping to prevent an influx of visitors. In this context, technology plays a vital role in uncovering alternative destinations and reducing overcrowding at popular tourist spots.
Societal norms and expectations about gender are also evolving, evolving travel trends. “Boyz II Zen” vacations—getaways focused on men’s wellness and personal development—are predicted to gain traction in 2025.
According to Booking.com, most male travelers aim to escape daily pressures (49%), rest and recharge (58%), engage in mental wellness activities (48%), and foster self-improvement (46%).
Building new friendships and strengthening old ones is also a priority, with 34% looking to improve their relationship-building skills, 27% wanting to make new friends, and 14% considering a men-only trip to combat loneliness.
Mami (in black, Japanese tourist) and her friend choose antiques in an alley on No Trang Long Street (Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City). Photo: Linh Huynh.
Perhaps, women play a significant role in encouraging these trips, with 56% supporting their partners, 46% motivating friends, and 28% advocating for fathers and brothers to prioritize self-care.
Thrift shopping is expected to become a significant travel trend in the coming year. Fashion-forward travelers are evolving into “vintage hunters,” eagerly exploring second-hand shops during their trips as part of a sustainability-focused approach.
73% of Vietnamese travelers express greater interest in buying clothes for vacations than before, with 76% of these being Gen Z travelers. Furthermore, 53% plan to visit thrift shops during their holidays, and an impressive 82% have already purchased vintage or second-hand items while traveling abroad.
Mr. Varun Grover announced 9 tourism trends in 2025. Photo: Tuong Vi
This trend reflects not only a shift in fashion preferences but also cost-saving measures and environmental consciousness, as travelers seek meaningful souvenirs that embody the essence of their destinations.
“Travelers in 2025 will increasingly seek meaningful and profound connections with themselves, the communities they visit, and the destinations they explore,” Grover added. Trips will no longer just be an opportunity for self-discovery but also a way to shape lives and strengthen connections with the world around them.
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc has been recognized by Blooloop, a leading global website for destination and tourism attractions, as one of the top 15 zoos and aquariums in Asia.
Blooloop.com, widely read by destination review experts worldwide, highlights that the selection was based on criteria such as visitor appeal, customer reviews, animal welfare, and conservation efforts.
Vinpearl Safari is home to more than 4,500 individuals of 200 species.
Vinpearl Safari spans over 380 hectares and is home to more than 4,500 animals representing 200 species, including endangered ones like Bengal tigers, African lions, and white rhinos.
“Vietnam’s largest wildlife conservation park is operated by Vingroup, which also owns three VinWonders theme parks, including the largest theme park in Southeast Asia located in Phu Quoc,” Blooloop noted.
Launched in 2015, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc was the first zoo in Vietnam to receive certification from the Southeast Asian Zoos and Aquariums Association (SEAZA) for its efforts in conservation and improving animal welfare. In 2024, its open safari park was also recognized by the World Records Union (WorldKings) as the “island safari with the highest species diversity and animal population worldwide.”
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is the most diverse island safari with the largest number of animal individuals in the world.
Located within the pristine forests of northern Phu Quoc, the safari boasts ideal natural conditions, habitats, facilities, and expertise to ensure the preservation, reproduction, and natural behavior maintenance of its wild inhabitants. The animals are cared for under international standards to mimic their natural wilderness as closely as possible.
Since early 2023, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc has welcomed over 400 newborn animals, including nearly 70 from rare species such as silvered langurs, golden deer, red muntjac, binturongs, ring-tailed lemurs, Arabian oryx, gemsbok, white rhinos, Bengal tigers, and chimpanzees.
Since the beginning of 2023, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc has welcomed nearly 70 individuals of rare species.
In line with sustainable tourism trends, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc has become a symbolic destination that attracts international tourists. Unique eco-friendly experiences, such as “human in cages, animals roaming free” safaris and nighttime nature explorations with the Night Safari, leave visitors thoroughly impressed.
The safari is especially popular among families with children, offering interactive activities in the wild that not only entertain but also educate kids, fostering their love and understanding of the animal kingdom.
Vinpearl Safari has many activities for children to experience and interact with wild nature.
Other top zoos and aquariums on the list include Singapore Zoo, Yokohama Zoological Gardens (Japan), Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens (China), and S.E.A. Aquarium (Singapore). All these institutions are members of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), representing over 400 facilities and organizations worldwide.
After nearly a decade of development, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc has proven to be a favorite destination for millions of visitors and a sanctuary for thousands of wild animals from all over the world.
Its inclusion among Asia’s top zoos and aquariums is a testament to its relentless efforts to establish itself as a world-class wildlife conservation park, on par with renowned global zoos.
Vietnam has approved plans to build a high-speed railway linking Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, with an estimated investment of $67 billion, according to CNN.
Spanning 1,541 kilometers (957 miles), the rail line will connect the country’s political and financial hubs. Trains will reach speeds of up to 350 kph (217 mph), reducing travel time from the current 30 hours to just five hours.
The decision was endorsed by Vietnam’s National Assembly, as reported by CNN and local outlets. Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with operations expected to commence by 2035. However, Vietnam’s history of delays in large-scale infrastructure projects has raised concerns about the timeline.
The railway will traverse 20 provinces and cities, featuring 23 passenger stations and five freight stations. It will serve both passenger and cargo transportation needs, as well as defense purposes, according to state media.
Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy emphasized the necessity of the project to address increasing transport demands. Studies have highlighted the urgent need for faster travel options along Vietnam’s north-south corridor.
“This project is critical for reshaping transportation and marks a foundational step in Vietnam’s pursuit of a new phase of development,” Huy stated.
Vietnam plans to prioritize domestic funding for the initiative but is open to affordable and non-restrictive foreign loans if needed, according to state media.
Vietjet is now offering convenient travel opportunities for citizens and tourists between the administrative and cultural hubs of Vietnam and Malaysia.
Starting today, the Hanoi-Kuala Lumpur route operates with seven round-trip flights per week. With this new route, Vietjet has doubled its weekly round-trip flights between Vietnam and Malaysia to 14, meeting the increasing demand for travel between the two countries.
The first passengers experience Vietjet’s Hanoi – Kuala Lumpur route.
The capitals of Malaysia and Vietnam are two of Asia’s premier destinations, each with its unique charm. Hanoi, a thousand-year-old city of culture and history recognized as a “City for Peace,” blends tradition with modernity, offering rich culinary experiences through its vibrant street food scene.
Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, stands as one of Asia’s leading modern cities while preserving the traditional heritage of its Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities.
Vietjet leaders welcome the first passengers on the Hanoi – Kuala Lumpur flight.
To celebrate the new route, Vietjet is offering international flight tickets starting at 0 VND (excluding taxes and fees) every “Green Friday” through December 31. Tickets can be booked via Vietjet’s website at vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile app.
By flying with Vietjet, passengers can explore Kuala Lumpur’s modern cityscape or enjoy Hanoi’s festive springtime activities. Additionally, travelers can visit famous destinations worldwide during this holiday season.
Vietjet’s professional and dedicated crew.
Passengers on Vietjet flights can savor culinary delights, including iconic Vietnamese dishes like Pho Thin and banh mi, served by a professional and dedicated cabin crew. Vietjet also provides complimentary Sky Care insurance and unique cultural and artistic performances at 10,000 meters above sea level.
