Bhaya Soul cruise in Ha Long Bay has been recognized in TIME’s 2026 list of The World’s Greatest Places for its transformative wellness-focused experiences. Launched in July 2022, the cruise offers unique programs, including meditation, cycling through fishing villages, and wellness retreats, all within the stunning landscape of Vietnam’s UNESCO-listed bay. Bhaya Soul cruise in Ha Long Bay has been included in the “Places to Stay” category of TIME’s annual list of The World’s Greatest Places 2026, which highlights 100 extraordinary destinations to visit and experience around the globe. Each year, TIME gathers nominations from its international network of correspondents and contributors, as well as through a dedicated application process. The list features destinationsContinue reading “Vietnam’s Ha Long bay cruise listed among Time’s greatest places to stay in 2026”
Category Archives: Tourism and Hospitality
Over 13,000 accommodation places in Vietnam receive Booking.com Traveler Review Awards
The 2026 Traveller Review Awards by Booking.com commend Vietnam’s hospitality sector, showcasing diverse accommodation options. Hoi An is named the most welcoming destination, highlighting Vietnam’s rich tourism landscape. The awards recognize over 1.8 million partners globally for their outstanding service, emphasizing authentic guest reviews as vital to traveler experiences. According to Booking.com, the recognition highlights Vietnam’s thriving hospitality sector and its continued commitment to delivering memorable guest experiences. This year’s awards also reflect the diverse accommodation preferences of travelers visiting the country. Hotels remain the most popular choice, with 5,361 award recipients, followed by apartments (2,478), homestays (1,651), aparthotels (645), and villasContinue reading “Over 13,000 accommodation places in Vietnam receive Booking.com Traveler Review Awards”
Vietnam passport rises to 84th in 2026 ranking, ahead of Cambodia’s
Vietnam’s passport has risen two places to rank 84th in the Henley Passport Index 2026, improving from its position in the January update and offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 48 out of 227 global destinations. According to the latest ranking, Vietnam now shares the 84th position with Angola, Burundi, and the Central African Republic.Continue reading “Vietnam passport rises to 84th in 2026 ranking, ahead of Cambodia’s”
Vietnam welcomes 4.7mn int’l visitors in first 2 months of 2026, up 18% year on year
In the first two months of 2023, Vietnam welcomed nearly 4.7 million international visitors, with significant increases in arrivals from various markets, particularly Asia. Aiming for 25 million international visitors by 2026, Vietnam attributes growth to improved visa policies, tourism promotions, and service enhancements, while economic contributions from travelers remain vital. Of the nearly 4.7Continue reading “Vietnam welcomes 4.7mn int’l visitors in first 2 months of 2026, up 18% year on year”
Russia surpasses Cambodia to become Vietnam’s 3rd largest source of tourists
In February, Russia became Vietnam’s third-largest source of tourists, with 121,493 arrivals, up 332% year-on-year. Overall, Vietnam welcomed over 2.2 million international visitors, marking a 17.7% increase from last year despite a 9.2% decrease from January. The government’s new visa policies and tourism efforts drive growth. Russia became Vietnam’s third-largest source of inbound tourists inContinue reading “Russia surpasses Cambodia to become Vietnam’s 3rd largest source of tourists”
Vietnam Breaks Ground on World’s Largest Stadium, Aiming to Host Global Sporting Events
The Olympic Sports City project in Hanoi, initiated in December 2025, has commenced construction with a groundbreaking ceremony held in February 2026. Spanning over 9,171 hectares, it includes the Dong Son Stadium, designed for 135,000 spectators. The project aims to fortify Vietnam’s position in global sports and culture, with completion slated for 2035. Since earlyContinue reading “Vietnam Breaks Ground on World’s Largest Stadium, Aiming to Host Global Sporting Events”
IHG Hotels & Resorts unveils a new premium brand
IHG has launched the Noted Collection, aimed at upscale independent hotels, enhancing operational performance and expanding unique guest experiences. CEO Elie Maalouf highlights its growth expectation to over 150 hotels globally in the next decade. In Vietnam, IHG plans to add 22 hotels, ensuring competitive presence in the evolving hospitality market. According to IHG, theContinue reading “IHG Hotels & Resorts unveils a new premium brand”
Public Wi-Fi to be installed at key sites in Can Tho, including iconic Cai Rang Floating Market
The municipal People’s Committee has approved a plan to install public Wi-Fi hotspots in key areas of the city, enhancing access to online services and supporting the development of digital infrastructure. The initiative, with an investment of VND1.2 billion, aims for completion by 2026 and is part of broader digital transformation efforts. The municipal People’sContinue reading “Public Wi-Fi to be installed at key sites in Can Tho, including iconic Cai Rang Floating Market”
Hoi An launches smart ticketing system with multilingual guides
Hoi An has launched a smart tourism system to enhance visitor convenience and modernize heritage management. Developed by the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Conservation and Vietnam Artificial Intelligence JSC, it enables automated ticket purchasing, multilingual information access, and personalized itineraries. This initiative supports Vietnam’s digital transformation and promotes Hoi An’s cultural values. HoiContinue reading “Hoi An launches smart ticketing system with multilingual guides”
Vietnam ministry proposes meals for passengers on flights delayed 2 hours or more
Vietnam’s Ministry of Transport is proposing a draft decree to enhance passenger rights in air travel. The new rules would impose stricter obligations on airlines regarding flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding, requiring them to provide better support and compensation, thus improving accountability and passenger protection. Feedback is being gathered before final approval. Vietnam’s MinistryContinue reading “Vietnam ministry proposes meals for passengers on flights delayed 2 hours or more”
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 