Vietnamese tourist attractions named world's best at 2024 travel awards

Tam Dao, a scenic retreat in the northern province of Vinh Phuc, was named the world's leading town destination.

Located 90 kilometers northeast of Hanoi, Tam Dao, meaning "three islands" in Vietnamese, was once a favored summer getaway for French officials in the late 19th century.

With its year-round cool climate and foggy landscapes, Tam Dao is often compared to Da Lat, the country's premier hill resort in the Central Highlands.

The area, dotted with French-built villas and historic hotels, has become a popular weekend escape for Hanoians in recent years.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island off the southern coast in Kien Giang Province, was named the world's leading nature island destination.

This is the third consecutive year Phu Quoc has won this prestigious honor.

Sunset Town, located on the southern side of Phu Quoc Island, was recognized as the world's leading iconic tourist attraction, while the Kiss Bridge was voted the world's leading iconic tourist bridge.

The bridge, often described by CNN Travel as "a place for kissing, not crossing," spans over 800 meters (half a mile) and consists of two separate halves. It is designed by Italian architect Marco Casamonti and inspired by Michelangelo’s "The Creation of Adam" fresco painting and the Vietnamese folk love story of Nguu Lang and Chuc Nu, two lovers separated by the Jade Emperor but allowed to meet once a year on the O Thuoc Bridge.

Ha Nam, located about 60 kilometers south of Hanoi, won the Special Achievement Award this year.

The province is home to Vietnam's largest pagoda complex, Tam Chuc, as well as traditional craft villages.

The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, celebrate excellence in the travel and tourism industry and are often referred to as the "Oscars of the travel industry."

Winners are selected through votes cast by travel professionals and the public.