According to statistics from the department, the city welcomed 4.32 million visitors, including 170,000 international arrivals, representing respective increases of 35% and 51.7% compared to the same period last year. Hotel occupancy averaged about 75%, up 10% year-on-year.
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Foreign visitors experience making banh tet (cylindrical sticky rice cakes). |
The strong performance was attributed to coordinated efforts by the department, local authorities, tourism businesses, accommodation providers, and attractions across the southern hub, which rolled out a wide range of distinctive activities that successfully attracted both domestic and international visitors.
During the reviewed period, Ho Chi Minh City saw a clear rise in urban tourism, with visitors focusing on sightseeing, entertainment and Tet-themed experiences across signature products and central areas. Large-scale and fixed Tet events helped retain visitors in the city and boost service spending.
Domestic tourists mainly comprised those visiting relatives combined with travel, and short stays and inner-city travel to flower streets, pedestrian zones, Tet markets, shopping, dining and events. Meanwhile, international arrivals largely concentrated on urban sightseeing and cultural–culinary experiences, often combined with tours to neighboring destinations.
The municipal Department of Tourism said it has coordinated with local authorities and relevant agencies in strengthening management efforts to ensure a safe, civilized and visitor-friendly tourism environment. The city’s tourism sector effectively leveraged cultural spaces, destinations and signature tourism products to serve residents and visitors.
Source: VNA