Vietnam Insider

Tailoring in Hoi An city (Quang Nam) is a traditional craft with a long history, bringing income to local people, and is also a cultural beauty of the ancient town. Along with the development of tourism, since around 2000, “hot” tailoring (quick delivery) in Hoi An has gradually become a unique tourism product, attracting domestic and international tourists with its convenience, high aesthetics, associated with many craft villages such as silk, embroidery…

On November 10, the Vietnam Military History Museum welcomed a record number of 40,000 visitors, nearly equal to the busiest day at the Louvre Museum in France.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thi Lan Huong, Head of the Propaganda and Education Department of the Vietnam Military History Museum, said that in previous winters, the museum welcomed 20,000 – 30,000 visitors.

The 40,000 visitors on November 10 were close to the Louvre’s busiest day in 2019, when it had 45,000 visitors. 2019 was also a record year for the Louvre, with nearly 10 million visitors, according to Afar.

“My grandfather wanted to relive his past,” said Tran Ngoc Lan Huong, 20, who traveled with her grandfather from Ba Vi to Hanoi to visit the museum on Sunday.

Huong’s grandfather, 86, was a former youth volunteer. She said he was very excited and always reminded Huong’s father to take him. Many of his comrades and friends of the same age were also looking forward to visiting the museum. Some came on the first day the museum opened on November 1.

AZA Travel CEO Nguyen Tien Dat said there are many reasons why the museum attracts a large number of visitors. First of all, this is an alternative destination to the Military Museum located on Dien Bien Phu Street, which is small and narrow. When the Military History Museum is built on a large scale, welcoming more visitors, displaying more artifacts, it is “understandable” that visitors flock here.

The Vietnam Military History Museum was built in 2019, on an area of ​​386,000 m2 on Thang Long Avenue, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. The main building has 4 floors above ground and one ground floor. It houses more than 150,000 artifacts and 4 national treasures along with many military equipment.

According to Mr. Dat, the history of building and defending the country is so heroic that the world “must take off their hats in admiration” and the Vietnamese military is of interest to people across the country. Among them, many are veterans, youth volunteers or those who have experienced the war period and are particularly interested. The museum also attracts those who are passionate about learning about history.

The museum is large, with many outdoor spaces displaying vivid visual exhibits such as airplanes and tanks that appeal to children, making it a priority destination for families on weekends. Admission is free, and the museum is heavily promoted by the media, which is also part of the reason for its popularity.

“My 3-year-old son was very excited to see planes in real life,” said Nguyen Ngoc Tuan, 30, living in Dong Da district.

CEO of AZA Travel assessed that the opening time also helped this place attract many visitors. In November, the weather is cool so people tend to like to go out more. If it opened in the summer, when the weather is hot, the number of visitors may not be as large.

Chairman of Lua Viet Tourism, Nguyen Van My, also said that many people come “out of curiosity, love of new things” and “crowd effect”. Some come to “take virtual photos” and “show off on social networks”.

However, looking at it positively, Mr. My said that the number of visitors “like a festival” is a good thing in encouraging people to learn about history.

But the large number of visitors and some inappropriate actions can create some “bad” impressions in the eyes of international visitors. For better management, Mr. My said that the Military History Museum should limit the number of visitors per day like many other places in the world. The museum should require visitors to register online and send a QR code, to control the number more conveniently.

Mr. Dat assessed that the attraction of the Vietnam Military History Museum will not “cool down” in the next 2-3 months. This place will also be an ideal destination for foreign tourists.

“The world is always impressed that Vietnam defeated the most powerful empires, they will visit the museum to learn about this,” said Mr. Dat.

Tourism experts also believe that the museum will soon be included in the “must visit” list of international visitors to Vietnam as well as appear in the tour programs of travel companies.

“Next month, we will add this location to our tour schedule,” said the CEO of AZA Travel.

Source: vnexpress.net (Phuong Anh)

In 2024, for the first time, the number of Chinese companies rose to dominate the Vietnamese market, but their market share was still very small compared to Japanese companies.

Mr. Trump is facing four prosecutions, but experts say the legal pressure will be significantly reduced, or even disappear completely, after he is elected.

Donald Trump was elected US President on November 6 and will take office in January 2025, becoming the first White House owner to have two non-consecutive terms in a century.

Mr. Trump was elected while facing four prosecutions, including conspiracy to overturn the election, leading to the Capitol Hill riot in Washington, illegally retaining classified documents after leaving the White House in Florida, falsifying business records to pay to suppress information during the 2016 election in New York and allegations of election interference in the state of Georgia.

Mr. Trump has denied all charges. A New York jury found Mr. Trump “guilty” in late May and is awaiting sentencing on November 26. The series of developments raises questions about how these legal battles will continue in the time before he takes office.

“Essentially, all of his criminal problems are gone,” former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani, co-founder and president of West Coast Trial Lawyers in California, told Fortune . “The question is, will they go away in November, or December, or January 2025, when Trump takes office?”

Mr. Trump became the first former US president to be indicted in late March 2023. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, New York, indicted Mr. Trump on 34 counts of falsifying business records to pay to suppress unfavorable information during the 2016 presidential election.

Manhattan criminal judge Juan Merchan presided over the trial. The jury found Trump guilty in late May. Trump was originally scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, but that was delayed after the Supreme Court ruled on the former president’s immunity on July 1, stating that Trump enjoys immunity for official actions but not for actions in his personal capacity.

Judge Merchan then pushed back the sentencing date to November 26, avoiding the impression that he had influenced the election outcome. Mr Trump’s legal team has been preparing an appeal scenario if he is sentenced to prison, arguing that the sentence makes him unfit to hold office and that he should be freed pending a final decision, said Julie Rendelman, a former Brooklyn prosecutor. “The appeals process in this scenario could take years.”

However, this scenario has become increasingly unlikely since Mr. Trump was elected. Judge Merchan is likely to rule on November 12 to dismiss the case under the Supreme Court’s decision on presidential immunity. If Mr. Merchan decides to dismiss the case, Mr. Trump will not face any prison time.

Mr Merchan could still pass sentence as planned, despite Mr Trump now being president-elect, former Brooklyn prosecutor Julie Rendelman told the BBC .

A 2000 memorandum from the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) of the US Department of Justice also argued that “prosecution or trial of a sitting president would undermine the ability of the executive branch to carry out its constitutionally mandated duties.”

“There is no scenario where you can bring a desk from the Oval Office into a prison,” law professor Lawrence Douglas, of Amherst College in Massachusetts, told Fortune .

According to law professor Markus Wagner, University of Wollongong, Australia, the most likely scenario is that Mr. Merchan will apply the spirit of the OLC memorandum to shelve the case, although technically it only applies to the incumbent president and binds federal agencies.

Another state case Mr. Trump is facing is an alleged conspiracy to overturn the election in Georgia, which was not affected by the federal government’s authority, even after Mr. Trump took office.

In the case, which was filed in August 2023, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis indicted 19 people, including Trump, who faced 13 charges. Judge Scott McAfee dismissed five charges, and Trump now faces eight charges.

However, the trial is currently at a standstill due to Willis’ alleged affair with a prosecutor in her office. Mr. Trump and the defendants have petitioned Judge McAfee to remove Ms. Willis from the case due to a “conflict of interest.” The judge is expected to rule on the matter in early 2025.

If Willis is removed from the prosecution, Georgia officials will have difficulty finding a replacement, or Willis’ successor will drop or drop the charges against the president-elect.

Even if Willis were allowed to continue in office, that effort would be difficult, given that Trump would have already taken office. Even if convicted, Trump could appeal to the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles, which is appointed by the state’s Republican governor, and would likely be approved.

The two federal prosecutions in Florida and Washington, both led by special prosecutor Jack Smith, are two cases that could easily be dismissed by Trump after he takes office, analysts say, because there are no constitutional or legal barriers preventing the president from asking the attorney general to dismiss federal cases against him.

Special Counsel Smith was appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in November 2022 to investigate Mr. Trump. In the Washington investigation, Smith filed a four-count indictment in August 2023. After the US Supreme Court’s ruling in July, Smith amended the indictment, narrowing the allegations.

The second investigation concerns government documents seized by the FBI during a raid on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in August 2022. Trump was indicted in June 2023 on 40 charges.

Federal Judge Aileen Cannon in Florida ruled in July that Smith had been “improperly appointed” and did not have the authority to bring charges. Smith then filed a petition with a federal appeals court asking for the prosecution of Mr. Trump to be reinstated.

“It is clear that a sitting president cannot be indicted, so the case in Washington federal court will be dismissed,” Rahmani said. If Smith still wants to pursue the case, Trump can simply fire the special prosecutor.

Just before the election, Mr. Trump asserted that if he won, he would “fire Smith in two seconds,” calling Smith one of the first problems to be solved.

Mr. Rahmani predicts the Florida prosecution will meet the same fate.

US media reported on November 6 that Smith is reportedly considering dropping two federal prosecutions against Mr. Trump. However, Smith’s office has not commented on the information, saying only that he will release an updated report on the cases on December 2.

Source: vnexpress.net (Nhu Tam – According to BBC, Fortune )

The Kremlin has denied US media reports that President Putin spoke by phone with US President-elect Trump last week about the Ukraine conflict.

“It’s completely untrue. It’s just in their imagination and it’s disinformation. There was no conversation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said at a press conference today.

Mr. Peskov’s comments came after the Washington Post on November 10 cited sources familiar with the situation as saying that Mr. Trump called the Russian leader from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on November 7, shortly after the Republican politician was determined to be the winner of the US presidential election.

Reuters sources also said that President-elect Trump called President Putin “in recent days” to advise the Russian leader not to escalate the war in Ukraine.

“This is the clearest example of the quality of information being published today, sometimes even in quite reputable outlets,” the Kremlin spokesman added.

Asked if President Putin had plans to contact Mr Trump, Peskov said “there are no specific plans at the moment”.

The Washington Post wrote that during the phone call, President-elect Trump urged Putin not to escalate the war in Ukraine and reminded the Kremlin leader of “the large-scale US military presence in Europe”. The two sides also expressed their desire for further dialogue to discuss “how to resolve the conflict in Ukraine soon”.

“Mr. Trump briefly mentioned the territorial issue,” the sources said, without elaborating.

The US President-elect has not commented on the phone call information. Steven Cheung, Mr. Trump’s communications director, stated that “he does not comment on President Trump’s private calls with world leaders.”

On November 7, Mr. Trump revealed that he had spoken with about 70 world leaders in the past 24 hours, but did not mention President Putin. Peskov said the same day that President Putin could have a phone call with President-elect Trump before his inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Donald Trump’s election as US President is expected to have a major impact on the war in Ukraine, as he has repeatedly declared that he would quickly end the conflict after his election and threatened to cut off aid to Kiev. Experts say any agreement to quickly end the conflict in Ukraine will include a clause requiring Kiev to give up some of the territory controlled by Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that giving up territory or meeting other demands would only encourage Russia to engage in further aggression. Zelensky spoke to Trump on November 6, describing the conversation as “excellent” and the two sides agreed to “maintain close dialogue and promote cooperation.”

Source: vnexpress.net (Huyen Le – According to TASS , AFP , Reuters )

Some tourists are wondering whether to book tours and travel services for Tet now or wait until closer to the date to get a cheaper price.

My whole family (6 people) plans to fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to visit relatives and then go on vacation to Phu Quoc. I have looked at individual services such as air tickets, rooms, transportation, accommodation and am wondering how to book at a reasonable price.

Also, is it too early to book now because I see that closer to the date, there are many discount deals, flights are also increased, prices can be lower.

Reply:

According to Ms. Tran Thi Bao Thu, Marketing and Communications Director of Vietluxtour, during the New Year and Lunar New Year this year, the MICE, inbound, outbound and domestic individual tour markets are expected to have good growth rates, but not breakthroughs. Attractive destinations in Northeast Asia and many promotional programs will attract Vietnamese tourists. The domestic market is under a lot of competitive pressure because service prices are still quite high.

Ms. Thu said that normally for travel services for the Lunar New Year, many families book very early, from October. They can book individual services or in combos and packages.

“Travelers who book early will have more options for routes, times and services that suit their needs and those of their families,” said Ms. Thu, adding that there are not always discount deals or additional flights to reduce prices, so it is advisable to book all services early.

Many families often prefer to book all services themselves for comfort and a free schedule, without being dependent. However, for large groups of tourists, including children and the elderly, it is advisable to choose a package tour to avoid incurring many costs outside the program, according to Ms. Thu. If possible, you can book a private tour, but the price will usually be higher.

Some notes when traveling during peak season

– Tourists should book through reputable travel agencies or agents because during peak season there are many cases of fraud or poor quality service online.

– Buying a group tour can save you a few million dong, buying early can also lower the price.

– Choosing to go out at the beginning or end of the vacation will help reduce costs.

– Visitors should be advised to arrive at the airport early because during peak season there are often many problems with travel.

Source: vnexpress.net (Tam Anh)

According to Minister Dao Hong Lan, the situation of mixing drugs into e-cigarettes is becoming increasingly serious, with 73 people being prosecuted for this behavior in the first three months of 2024.

On the afternoon of November 11, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan took the stage to answer questions about issues related to the sector. As the first person to question the head of the health sector, delegate Pham Thi Kieu (Dak Nong General Hospital) asked Minister Dao Hong Lan to state her views on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, their harmful effects on the health of young people, and to provide solutions.

The content about the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes and tightening the management of this product was also a concern of many other delegates throughout the question and answer session.

Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan said that recently, the rate of use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products has been increasing rapidly, posing many potential risks to health and life, especially among young people. Through investigations in 34 provinces and cities, the rate of e-cigarette use among adults increased 18 times, to 3.6% in 2020, with the highest concentration in the 15-24 age group.

The Ministry of Health has assigned a specialized unit to synthesize research content and evaluate the use of heated and electronic tobacco products on the effects on the heart, liver, lungs, and especially psychosis. In 2023, there will be 1,234 people treated for e-cigarette-related diseases. “In the context of about 40,000 people/year suffering from diseases caused by regular cigarettes, now e-cigarettes have a huge impact,” said Ms. Lan.

According to Ms. Lan, the main reason why e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products are still widespread in the market is because there are no legal regulations allowing the sale of these products. However, in order to make a profit, many companies have taken advantage of sophisticated marketing methods and eye-catching product designs to attract consumers. In addition, the smuggling of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products has also contributed to this situation, causing many difficulties in management.

Holding up some electronic cigarette products with eye-catching designs and decorations, she said the appearance of electronic cigarettes is very eye-catching to children. “Can anyone imagine this is an electronic cigarette? These products on the market are very attractive to young people,” she emphasized.

The Minister of Health proposed that the National Assembly have stronger solutions to address the issue of e-cigarette sales to young people. “The Ministry of Health hopes to have a resolution from the National Assembly on banning e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products before the Law on Tobacco Harm Prevention Amendment is submitted to the National Assembly in the near future,” Ms. Lan suggested.

The female minister said that e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products are new generation products, operating by heating a solution of substances containing nicotine or flavoring, usually dissolved into propylene glycol or glycerine. At least 60 chemical compounds have been found in e-cigarette solutions (also known as essential oils) and many other compounds are present in the gas/smoke produced. This type does not contain tobacco ingredients but only uses flavorings and chemicals, so it is not considered tobacco according to the definition of the Law on Prevention of Tobacco Harms and is not subject to regulation.

Investigation results from the World Health Organization and the Ministry of Health show that this type of cigarette is addictive due to the nicotine it contains; causes cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, acute lung damage, poisoning and affects mental health.

Vietnam has recorded a rapid increase in the use of new tobacco products, mainly e-cigarettes and heated cigarettes. In the 13-15 age group, the rate doubled from 3.5% in 2022 to 8% in 2023. In 2023, more than 1,200 people were hospitalized due to the use of e-cigarettes and heated cigarettes, including many minors. The debate over whether to “ban or regulate” e-cigarettes has been raised many times in recent times, but many ministries and sectors have proposed an absolute ban to protect public health.

Also contributing to this content, Standing member of the Committee for Culture and Education Nguyen Thi Mai Thoa agreed with the Ministry of Health on announcing the harmful effects of e-cigarettes and recommending a ban on this product, but she asked the Minister to provide more information on the development of e-cigarette addiction cessation programs in localities.

Minister Dao Hong Lan said the Government has established a Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund with 9 task groups, including organizing a network of smoking cessation to support people. To date, the Ministry of Health has organized 24 smoking cessation centers which are hospitals under the Ministry. Among them, many specialized hospitals have a large number of patients such as Bach Mai, Lung, Hanoi Oncology, Traditional Medicine…

In recent times, Bach Mai Hospital has organized a drug addiction treatment center, providing technical support to hospitals nationwide to help people quit smoking. The Ministry has set up hotlines to support people in getting direct advice on quitting smoking. These models have been implemented effectively.

Delegate Le Hoang Anh cited a report from the Ministry of Public Security stating that the situation of drug-laced e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products is increasing rapidly and is difficult to control. Therefore, the Ministry of Public Security wants to ban the import, distribution and advertising of this type of tobacco, but the Ministry of Industry and Trade wants to conduct further pilot studies for better management.

“Many voters reflect that many interest groups of the tobacco industry are actively campaigning to maintain testing of these types of cigarettes. According to the Minister, have these interest groups successfully lobbied in Vietnam? What is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health to advise that the Government has not yet had a clear stance on this issue?”, the delegate of Gia Lai asked and at the same time forwarded this question to the Minister of Industry and Trade.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien agreed with the concerns of delegates regarding e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. He emphasized that while traditional cigarettes have clear regulations, new generation tobacco products lack a specific legal framework, leading to lax management.

Faced with this situation, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has proactively proposed to develop a pilot project to manage these products. However, due to receiving many conflicting opinions, especially the opposition from the Ministry of Health about the harmful effects of these products on health, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has agreed with the Ministry of Health that there should be a strict legal regulation to completely ban electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Mr. Dien said that the Ministry of Industry and Trade will continue to direct market management forces to strengthen inspection and handle illegal production and trading of these products. At the same time, the Ministry will coordinate with other competent agencies to build a complete legal framework to effectively prevent smuggling and consumption of electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Functional food and cosmetic business still has loopholes

Delegate Dang Thi Bao Trinh (Deputy Secretary of the Quang Nam Provincial Youth Union) said that with the mindset that functional foods are nutritious and have no side effects, many people do not hesitate to spend money on these products. “I request the Minister of Health to clarify the responsibility for state management and solutions to control the purchase and sale of these products,” the female delegate questioned.

This is also the concern of delegates Duong Tan Quan and Nguyen Thi Xuan.

In response, the Minister of Health said that the fields of drugs, cosmetics, and functional foods are managed according to the Law on Pharmacy, Circular 43 of the Ministry of Health, the Law on Food Safety… These regulations are sufficient to manage drugs, cosmetics, and functional foods, but many people still circumvent the law, exaggerate their effects, and show signs of defrauding consumers.

Many of these products are sold through hand-carried goods and livestreams on social networks. According to her, the business of functional foods and cosmetics must comply with regulations on product registration, declaration and labeling, but many products are currently being sold on the market without ensuring these requirements. Product advertising must have a certificate of advertising content and online sales of goods of unknown origin are illegal.

The Minister of Health assessed that the legal system on the management of functional foods has been relatively complete, creating favorable conditions for the development of this industry. In fact, Vietnamese functional food products have been exported to more than 30 countries, affirming their quality and reputation.

However, the buying and selling of hand-carried goods still occurs in reality. The reasons are high profits, consumers’ preference for foreign goods and difficulties in controlling online sales. To solve this problem, the Ministry of Health will coordinate with relevant ministries and branches to strengthen control of online sales activities, promote communication to raise consumer awareness and establish a rapid response team to handle violations.

The Ministry of Health has strengthened management and reviewed policy content that does not meet practical requirements for amendment, such as the Food Safety Law which is being amended and will be submitted to the National Assembly in 2025. The Ministry of Health has upgraded the circular on cosmetics management into a decree, which is being sent to the Ministry of Justice for appraisal. The Ministry also coordinates with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Information and Communications, and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to review violations in product advertising.

In addition, the Ministry of Health has published a list of businesses licensed to produce functional foods, helping consumers easily choose reputable products. At the same time, the Ministry has coordinated with relevant agencies to strengthen inspection and strictly handle violations of the law in this field, especially in the field of advertising.

Delegate Khang Thi Mao asked: “Is it right or wrong for many doctors to wear white coats to advertise medicines and functional foods?”

Minister Dao Hong Lan emphasized that current laws have clear regulations on the use of images of doctors and medical practitioners in advertising. Specifically, the Advertising Law and its implementing documents strictly prohibit this behavior. In addition, Article 197 of the Penal Code also clearly stipulates the forms of handling of violations of the law in the field of advertising.

Ms. Lan also said that the Ministry of Health has sent documents to medical facilities to remind and request that medical staff absolutely do not participate in advertising activities for functional foods, in order to ensure the seriousness and reputation of the medical sector.

Concerns about drug shortages

Delegate Hoang Thi Thanh Thuy (Tay Ninh) questioned the delay in insurance payments, which is causing difficulties for hospitals and drug bidding. “Hospitals are facing difficulties and are in debt. How will the Minister resolve this problem?”, Ms. Thuy questioned.

Minister Dao Hong Lan said that this content was directed by the Government, the Ministry of Health has resolved over 11,000 billion VND of outstanding debt, is being allocated to medical facilities, is a resource for hospitals to buy equipment, bid for drugs. “Due to insurance arrears, hospitals have not been able to buy drugs in the past,” said Ms. Dao Hong Lan.

Delegate Pham Van Hoa (Dong Thap) pointed out the current situation of private medical facilities, clinics, doctors with foreign elements… hanging signs to treat many types of diseases, many of whom do not have degrees or practice licenses. “I request the Minister of Health to clarify the reasons for licensing these facilities, and at the same time provide solutions to overcome this,” said Mr. Hoa.

The Minister of Health pointed out that although the 2023 Law on Medical Examination and Treatment has strict regulations on medical practice, there are still many violations and disguised activities. According to regulations, the Ministry of Health licenses medical facilities under its management, private hospitals are licensed by the Department of Health, and other medical facilities are under the management of local authorities.

To strengthen management, the Minister suggested that localities need to regularly inspect and monitor the operations of medical facilities in the area, especially private clinics. However, she also admitted that the local medical practice management force is still weak, causing difficulties in performing tasks.

“We hope that localities will increase investment in the medical practice management force to ensure strict implementation of the law, contributing to improving the quality of medical examination and treatment services and protecting people’s health,” said Ms. Lan.

Delegate Nguyen Thi Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of the Judiciary Committee, said that hospital pharmacies are still facing difficulties in bidding for drugs. In fact, there are still times when people have finished their medical examinations but cannot buy drugs. “Where does this problem come from and when will the Minister resolve it?”, Ms. Thuy asked.

Ms. Dao Hong Lan said that recently, agencies have had many solutions to solve the problem of drug shortage, especially the provisions in the 2023 Bidding Law. Hospital pharmacies are managed by hospitals, which organize the purchase of retail drugs to sell to people when needed, without having to use the budget. According to the 2023 Bidding Law, hospital pharmacies must also bid, so in reality, they face difficulties. Therefore, the revised Pharmacy Law is seeking the National Assembly’s opinion to hand over the right to proactively purchase to hospital pharmacies of medical facilities.

Chairing the question-and-answer session, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man said that according to the program, on the morning of November 12, the National Assembly will continue the question-and-answer session. Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan will answer questions from 8 National Assembly deputies who questioned her on the afternoon of November 11.

Source: vnexpress.net (Son Ha – Doan Loan – Viet Tuan)

Vietnamese people share a love of music, TV shows, films, sports, and travel, creating a unique intersection of interests that is driving a key trend in outbound tourism for 2025.

HO CHI MINH CITY, 06 NOVEMBER 2024 – Vietnamese travelers are seeking experiences tied to their pop culture moments, whether it’s attending a music concert, visiting iconic settings from beloved TV dramas, or witnessing a thrilling football match in person, according to new study by Vero.

The Southeast Asian communications consultancy released a white paper titled “Chasing Pop Culture Dreams: How Vietnamese Travelers are Redefining Their Bucket Lists,” revealing a new key driver in Vietnamese outbound travel: pop culture tourism.

As Vietnamese travelers begin planning their travels for the holidays and the Lunar New Year celebration, brands in the travel and hospitality industry can expect that outbound tourism will remain strong in 2025. 

Drawing on survey data from over 23,000 Vietnamese respondents across multiple generations during the first half of 2024, as well as social listening analysis, the study found that the middle-class is driving demand for travel. With an increasing disposable income and growing aspirations to explore new destinations, trips abroad are high on the agenda, especially to places that offer immersive cultural experiences and connections to popular media.

Over half of the Vietnamese travelers say that they have made bookings and trip purchases, while 45.9% plan on following suit within the next few months. Some of the most discussed travel destinations for Vietnamese travelers are Thailand, China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan.

These trips are likely influenced by social media, as people use these platforms as their main source of information (Facebook 58.2% and Instagram 56.3%) and inspiration (Facebook 61.5% and Instagram 59.6%). Meanwhile, TikTok is now considered as a modern-day social travel guide, with 55.6% of respondents utilizing the platform to research destinations, vacations, and travel options. As these spaces also cater to fandoms of all shapes and sizes, they have also become key sites for planning itineraries around one’s beloved media and pop culture phenomena—contributing to the rise of different types of pop culture-inspired travel.

• Concert tourism refers to how travelers are planning trips around musical events, as exemplified by the pilgrimage made by Vietnamese Swifties to Singapore earlier this year for the Eras Tour, as well as the many Vietnamese travelers making their way to South Korea to witness their favorite K-Pop acts. 
• Set jetting is a way for travelers to turn fictional worlds into reality by visiting the shooting locations of their favorite TV shows and movies. Case in point: The popularity of the Chinese TV series Meet Yourself has led to a surge in travel interest in its setting of Yunnan, China, among Vietnamese tourists. The popularity of Emily in Paris among Vietnamese audience has also resulted in the surge of search interest for trips to the French capital.
• Spectator travel is when tourists plan trips to witness sports history unfold, particularly with sports like football and events like the SEA Games, London’s Premier League, and the Olympics. Although this specific type of pop culture travel has not yet fully gained traction, it is poised for growth as more Vietnamese sports fans search destinations tied to major sporting events.

“The demand for real-life experiences born from the desire to live out pop culture dreams is inspiring people in Vietnam to travel, explore destinations, and connect with a cultural phenomenon that resonates with them. They crave exclusivity but also experiences that are worth sharing with their fandom communities, blending personal fulfillment with social engagement,” shares Pham Hoai Anh, Vero’s Head of Client Solutions. 

Tourism organizations and hospitality brands eager to capture the attention of this hyper-engaged segment must curate unique and culturally attuned offerings that reflect these passions and create opportunities for memorable, socially amplified moments.

• Recognizing the rise of fandom culture is essential. Brands should design experiences tailored for superfans, engage with fan communities, and collaborate with influencer-fans who authentically connect with target audiences.
• Highlight the once-in-a-lifetime appeal of your destination. Consider creating exclusive collaborations for travel memorabilia, special film or TV-inspired menus, or themed travel packages centered around musical events or sporting leagues.
• Meet travelers’ craving for immersive and shareable social experiences. Turn customers into travel brand advocates by leveraging user-generated content to generate buzz and adopt a long-term approach to events that encourage repeat visits.

“Vietnamese fans are always ready to grab every opportunity to be closer to their favorite artists or visit the settings of their beloved shows. Given the limited number of foreign artists performing in the country, this insatiable hunger for entertainment and cultural connection intensifies, making these experiences feel like once-in-a-lifetime moments. By acknowledging and fostering this enthusiasm, brands and travel organizers can create memorable experiences that fans will cherish forever,” Nguyen Thi Trinh, Vero’s Vice President for Brand Influence, explains.

To read the full study, visit the Vero website.

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ABOUT VERO

Vero is an award-winning strategic communications consultancy, advising some of Southeast Asia’s leading brands, corporations, and non-profit organizations.

B Corp certified across all its offices, and a signatory of the Clean Creative pledge since 2022, Vero adopts a forward-thinking approach to public relations and marketing, striving to enact meaningful change for clients and society at large.

Vero’s team of over 260 PR, social, digital, influence, and creative professionals in Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, and its partnership in Myanmar, brings unique perspectives to earned media, prioritizing digital technology, creative storytelling, and stakeholder engagement in championing stories of progress. This includes the newest units: Vero IQ, which digs deep for data-driven insights, Vero Xperience, dedicated to redefining brand events in the region and Vero Advocacy, a government-engagement focused strategic advisory.

Listed among the Global Top 250 Agency Ranking by PRovoke Media and winner of numerous Southeast Asia Consultancy of the Year awards, Vero designs integrated marketing and communications strategies that resonate within and across this vibrant region’s digital ecosystems and fast-growing economies.

Visit https://vero-asean.com/

Forget the plus-one! Solo travel is trending in 2024, with a remarkable 75%* of Vietnamese travelers planning to travel alone in 2024. In honor of the Single Day – 11.11, Booking.com suggests a list of destinations in Vietnam for every type of solo explorer, from the seasoned adventurers to the curious first-timers.

From exploring bustling cityscapes to immersing in the calm of nature, Vietnam offers diverse destinations for solo travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. Here’s a glimpse into some of the must-visit locations:

Hanoi – For the Cultural Explorer

Hanoi, the capital city, is a paradise for culture seekers. Solo travelers can explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, marvel at the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, and lose yourself in the beauty of ancient pagodas and stunning French-colonial architecture. Relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee by the lake or join a walking tour to mingle with other travelers and delve deeper into the city’s rich history and food culture.

 

Hue – For the Wellness Wanderer

For solo travelers seeking a healing escape, Hue offers a serene environment steeped in tranquility and peace. Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is home to tranquil gardens, ancient temples, and the peaceful Perfume River, making it an ideal destination for rejuvenation. Visitors can explore the beautiful Thien Mu Pagoda, wander through the lush grounds of the Imperial City, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the river. With its rich heritage and calming atmosphere, Hue provides the perfect backdrop for reflection, mindfulness, and a much-needed reboot from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

 

Hoi An – For the History Enthusiast

A World Heritage site, Hoi An is a living museum where the world of a traveler on their own will be transported to another time, where ancient streets and lantern-filled nights await you. Hoi An is famous for its Age-old architecture, which would be an ideal destination for history and cultural lovers. Solo travelers can dive into a cooking class, learn the art of lantern-making, or be mesmerized at Hoi An Memories, Vietnam’s largest outdoor art show, where 500 performers, clad in traditional ao dai uniforms and backed by modern staging, bring to life the history of Hoi An from 400 years ago.

 

Ninh Binh – For the Adventure Seeker

Ninh Binh, often dubbed the “Halong Bay on Land,” is a paradise for adventure-seeking solo travelers. This stunning region boasts dramatic limestone karsts, winding rivers, and ancient caves, offering a plethora of thrilling activities. Embark on a serene boat ride through the mystical Trang An grottoes, hike up to Hang Mua Peak for panoramic views, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Cuc Phuong National Park. Whether you’re kayaking through tranquil waterways or trekking through lush forests, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable adventure.

 

Phan Thiet – For the Beach Lover

Perfect for those seeking a laid-back coastal retreat, Phan Thiet offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. Unwind on pristine beaches with turquoise waters, explore the iconic red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne, or take a dip in the mystical Fairy Stream. Phan Thiet provides the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal destination for solo travelers seeking tranquility just a few hours from the bustling city.

 

Booking.com empowers solo travelers to create unforgettable travel experiences. With a wide range of accommodation options, attractions, and a seamless booking process, Booking.com ensures a smooth and hassle-free adventure from start to finish. So ditch the wingman, pack your bag, and embark on your dream solo journey in Vietnam.

Methodology

*Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1008 from Argentina, 1012 from Australia, 505 from Austria, 1001 from Belgium, 1002 from Brazil, 1009 from Canada, 1009 from China, 1002 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 504 from Denmark, 1011 from France, 1011 from Germany, 1016 from Hong Kong, 1004 from India, 510 from Ireland, 504 from Israel, 1014 from Italy, 1004 from Japan, 1009 from Mexico, 1014 from The Netherlands, 1015 from New Zealand, 500 from Portugal, 502 from Singapore, 1010 from South Korea, 1009 from Spain, 502 from Sweden, 507 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1003 from Thailand, 502 from the UAE, 1007 from the UK, 1005 from the US and 1007 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.

The hotel will host a classical music concert in its elegant courtyard on Nov. 23

HANOI, Vietnam (Nov. 11, 2024) – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi will welcome the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra later this month for an exclusive concert performed poolside in the hotel’s elegant courtyard, followed by a sumptuous meal for Platinum guests at Le Beaulieu.

The orchestra, which was established in 1984 and has garnered acclaim around the world through concert tours, will perform two classical Mozart pieces (Clarinet Concerto in A Major and Symphony No. 40 in G Minor), conducted by maestro Honna Tetsuji, as part of “The Metropole Concert: Timeless Mozart with the VNSO.”

The special event will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23 starting at 6 p.m.

Before the concert, guests will be served gourmet canapés and welcome drinks from the hotel’s Bamboo Bar at the enchanting poolside setting. GOLD tickets, including drinks and canapés, are priced at VND 790,000++ per person. A PLATINUM package, which also includes an exquisite dinner after the performance at Le Beaulieu, is priced at VND 4,500,000++ per person. Accor Plus members enjoy 10% off the ticket price.

The welcome cocktails and canapés will be served from 6 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the classical music concert from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Le Beaulieu is Metropole Hanoi’s signature French fine-dining restaurant renowned for its modern French cuisine with nods to classical French flavors and an emphasis on seasonality and superior ingredients. While there are some traditional French touches, the presentation is stylish, with well-balanced portions and fresh produce from France, Vietnam and elsewhere.

The concert comes a month after Le Beaulieu welcomed La Tour d’Argent, the legendary 400-year-old Parisian dining establishment that inspired the hit 2007 Disney movie Ratatouille, for a series of highly exclusive meals in October.

Operating in its current space since 1901, Le Beaulieu is believed to be the oldest continually operating restaurant in Vietnam. It was recently listed in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide 2024.

For more information or to make a booking, please call 0243 826 6919 (ext. 8200), email metropolehanoi.lebeaulieu@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI

A prominent fixture in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Hotel Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers such as playwrights, ambassadors and heads of state. The recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service, this legendary landmark has contributed to the richness of local heritage.

The hotel includes 358 rooms that are divided into two wings – the historical Heritage Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing. There are three legendary suites that are named after famous residents and visitors to the hotel (Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham).

The Metropole restaurants and bars are all famous dining venues, each offering a different exotic experience: Le Beaulieu has the best French fare in this corner of the world; Spice Garden offers elevated Vietnamese cuisine with a contemporary twist; angelina is Hanoi’s bespoke bar-lounge-restaurant; La Terrasse brings Parisian-style to the sidewalks of Hanoi; Le Club Bar treats guests to its famous afternoon high tea and cool jazz performances; and, finally, Bamboo Bar brings poolside lounging to the next level.

ABOUT SOFITEL LEGEND

A pioneer of French luxury hospitality since 1964, Sofitel today embodies heartfelt and committed luxury, with a French zest. Alongside its 120 elegant and unique properties, the brand inaugurated in 2009 a collection of emblematic hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner: unrivalled luxury addresses with a legendary heritage and highly personalised service. Each stay is timeless, offering sumptuous surroundings, renowned restaurants and modern comforts for an inspiring luxury experience. Noble, rare and soulful, Sofitel Legend hotels captivate with their architectural beauty, breathtaking views and mesmerizing ambience.

Sofitel Legend now comprises 6 hotels, each more magnificent than the last, set within beautiful and culturally-rich destinations around the world: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an.

Sofitel Legend is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,500 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

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