Vietnam has once again been recognized as “Asia’s Leading Destination” in 2021. The prestigious award was presented by The World Travel Awards, beating out strong contenders including Singapore, China, Indonesia, and Thailand. This is the third time Vietnam has claimed the top title since 2018, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination in Asia.
Vietnam’s Remarkable Achievements
In addition to being named “Asia’s Leading Destination,” Vietnam also emerged as the winner in 32 other categories this year. These awards are a testament to Vietnam’s outstanding efforts to rebuild its tourism industry after the challenging period brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Vietnam was also recognized as “Asia’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination 2021,” highlighting the country’s dedication to conservation work, natural resource preservation, and ecotourism activities.
HaLong Bay – the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, photo by Jason Zullo
Vietnam’s Winning Destinations
Vietnam boasts several award-winning destinations that capture the essence of its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The historic town of Hoi An in Quang Nam province was awarded “Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination 2021,” surpassing rivals like Beijing, Delhi, Kyoto, and Seoul. Additionally, HaLong Bay in Quang Ninh was ranked as “Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2021.” Both destinations are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and hold significant cultural and natural value.
The historic town of Hoi An, photo by Chris Berg
Moreover, Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh province was recognized as “Asia’s Leading National Park 2021” for the third consecutive year. This national park, spanning three provinces in the Tam Diep mountain range, serves as a protected rainforest habitat for over 650 species of animals.
Cuc Phuong National Park, photo by Christian Berg
Vietnam’s Winning Industries
Apart from its diverse destinations, Vietnam’s tourism and service businesses also received recognition. The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) was awarded “Asia’s Leading Tourism Tourist Board 2021” for the second time since 2017. This accolade reflects the agency’s comprehensive response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, Phu Quoc Island’s luxury accommodations received accolades. Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort, and Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay were recognized by the World Travel Awards for their excellence in luxury accommodation.
Phu Quoc resorts and hotels, photo by Christian Berg
Van Don International Airport was recognized as “Asia’s Leading Regional Airport 2021” as well as the airport with “Asia’s Leading Airport Lounge 2021.”
The World Travel Awards
The World Travel Awards, known as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” celebrates excellence in tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors. Each year, travel industry professionals and the public cast their votes for regional nominees. The winners are determined based on the votes received.
Vietnam’s exceptional achievements in the travel industry include being named the “World’s Leading Heritage Destination” in 2019 and 2020, with a nomination for 2021. The winners of the World edition will be announced at the Grand Final Gala Ceremony in Moscow, Russia, on November 26th.
Travel to Vietnam in 2021
As Vietnam begins to implement plans to welcome tourists once again, these awards and titles serve as a critical guide for travelers in choosing the best destinations to visit. Vietnam aims to welcome fully vaccinated international tourists to Phu Quoc Island, Khanh Hoa, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ha Long Bay starting November 2021, with more destinations expected to reopen in 2022. Plan your trip to Vietnam and experience its captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage.
This article was written with ‘Travel Guide’ in mind. For more travel information and inspiration, visit Travel Guide.
