Visitors from major markets such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore to Vietnam in February decreased by 10% compared to the first month of the year.
Figures released this morning by the National Tourism Administration show that in February, Vietnam welcomed more than 1.53 million international visitors, up 1.3% compared to January, nearly equal to 1.58 million in February 2019. According to the General Statistics Office, thanks to the effectiveness of favorable visa policies, tourism stimulus, and efforts of the government, businesses, and people, the number of international visitors continues to increase.
However, February recorded a decrease in the 10 largest markets sending visitors to Vietnam in 2023 and January, mainly from Southeast Asian countries. The number of visitors from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore decreased by about 10-13% compared to January, followed by India (down nearly 30%), Japan (more than 30%), and Australia (nearly 50%).
In addition to markets with a decrease in visitors, the number of visitors from Laos, Cambodia, and Taiwan all increased nearly twice. Visitors from Korea, China, and the US continued to be the top markets sending visitors to Vietnam in February.
Mr. Pham Ha, CEO of Lux Group, said that it is the peak season, so the number of international visitors to Vietnam in February is higher than in January, which is "normal". Regarding the decrease in the number of Southeast Asian visitors, Mr. Ha said that "maybe their countries are also celebrating Lunar New Year so they stay to reunite with their families or have a few days off". Southeast Asian visitors are a nearby market, so this number of visitors comes to Vietnam almost all year round, there is no specific peak month, according to Mr. Ha.
International visitors visit Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho earlier this year. Photo: Kieu Phi
Not only Southeast Asian tourists have decreased, domestic travel and cruise companies have also recorded a decrease in the number of visitors from the European market. The reason is that during the Lunar New Year, overseas Vietnamese flock to their hometowns to celebrate Tet, leading to a shortage of air tickets, pushing up ticket prices, so European tourists postpone their travel plans to March and April. Mr. Ha said that in the next two months, many businesses and cruise lines are fully booked. "We are even in dire need of tour guides and drivers to serve customers," Mr. Ha said.
Phuong Anh
Source link
Comment (0)