As interest in Asia continues to grow among luxury travellers, Vietnam is capturing an increasing share of the limelight. International arrivals rose from 17.6 million in 2024 to nearly 21.2 million in 2025, with a further 4.68 million visitors recorded in January and February 2026 alone. Behind that growth is a compelling mix of strengths, from a growing collection of standout hotels and resorts to the country’s remarkable diversity of experiences, celebrated cuisine and fascinating history.
EXO Travel has also stepped up to meet this growing demand. That was recently recognised within the Virtuoso network, where EXO Vietnam was named Virtuoso’s 2026 Highest Annual Growth: On-Site Partner – Continental Europe, underscoring both Vietnam’s growing appeal and EXO’s strength in bringing that appeal to life for advisors and their clients.
So why now? Much of Vietnam’s rise lies in how closely it aligns with what luxury travellers are seeking today: meaningful cultural encounters, varied landscapes and experiences that feel authentic while still delivered with thoughtful pacing, expert guiding and refined accommodation. Below are four factors helping place Vietnam firmly on the global travel radar.
Easier to explore than ever
Vietnam’s tourism infrastructure is both well established and continuing to evolve. International flight connections have expanded significantly in recent years, while domestic flights and improved road networks make travelling between regions increasingly straightforward.
At the same time, the hospitality landscape has matured rapidly. Design-led boutique properties, restored heritage hotels and internationally recognised luxury brands now appear across the country, from Hanoi’s historic districts to the beaches of central Vietnam and the waterways of Ha Long Bay.
Yet despite this development, Vietnam has not reached the saturation seen in some other parts of Southeast Asia. The result is a destination that feels easy to navigate, while still offering the sense of discovery that defines memorable journeys.
Rising global visibility
Vietnam’s global profile has steadily risen in recent years, helped in part by the international popularity of its cuisine. Fresh ingredients, vibrant flavours and a culture built around street food have introduced many travellers to the country long before they arrive.
For travellers on the ground, this translates into immersive culinary experiences, from guided market visits to chef-led tastings that reveal the depth behind everyday dishes.
At the same time, travel media and digital platforms continue to showcase the country’s defining imagery, Ha Long Bay’s limestone islands, the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the dramatic rice terraces of the north, keeping Vietnam highly visible during the inspiration phase of travel planning.
Itinerary planning by region
From a travel design perspective, Vietnam offers something particularly valuable: a clear geographic structure that lends itself naturally to varied journeys.
Northern Vietnam introduces travellers to historic Hanoi, mountain landscapes and cultural encounters with ethnic minority communities. Central Vietnam blends heritage sites with atmospheric towns and refined coastal resorts. In the south, Ho Chi Minh City’s energy contrasts with the slower rhythms of the Mekong Delta.
This progression allows advisors to design journeys that evolve naturally across the country, balancing culture, scenery and relaxation without complicated logistics.
A natural anchor for Indochina
Vietnam also plays a central role in the wider Indochina travel narrative.
Positioned along the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, the country connects easily with several of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Strong international gateways and efficient internal travel routes allow Vietnam to act as a convenient anchor for broader regional journeys.
From here, neighbouring countries add complementary perspectives. Cambodia introduces the temples of Angkor, Laos offers a slower and more contemplative pace and Thailand contributes vibrant cities and renowned island destinations.
Looking ahead
As interest in Southeast Asia continues to expand, Vietnam stands out as a destination that combines accessibility with depth. Its landscapes, cuisine and cultural heritage offer travellers a rich sense of place, while its infrastructure and hospitality landscape make the country increasingly easy to explore.
For travel advisors designing journeys in the region, Vietnam remains one of Southeast Asia’s most versatile and rewarding destinations.
To learn more about planning journeys in Vietnam or building wider regional itineraries, reach out to the EXO team.
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">
" alt="">