Vietnam travel interests South Koreans, Americans most: Agoda

Japan ranked third on the list of five countries with biggest interest in Vietnamese inbound travel, followed by Thailand and Singapore, according to a report released by online travel agency Agoda.

"Vietnam this year has consistently grown in attractiveness to travelers around the world – with the nation becoming ever more accessible," said Lam Vu, Country Director Vietnam at Agoda.

"The popularity of Vietnam has also increased because of liberalizing visa policies," Vu added.

Agoda’s report also matched this year’s data for international visitors to Vietnam.

South Korea has become the largest source of foreign visitors this year with 3.2 million arrivals while the U.S. was the fourth biggest market (658,000) after mainland China and Taiwan.

Japan and Thailand were among the top 10 biggest tourism markets for Vietnam’s inbound tourism.

Vietnam received 1.23 million foreign visitors in November, the highest monthly number since it reopened its borders after Covid in March last year as the country has made breakthroughs in tourism policies.

Starting Aug. 15, Vietnam's new immigration policy accepts e-visa applications from citizens from all countries and territories, with the visa valid for multiple entries and for 90 days.

In addition to granting tourist visas to all countries, the government also extended the duration of stays in Vietnam from 15 to 45 days for citizens of 13 countries unilaterally exempted from visas.

The number of foreign arrivals so far this year has topped 11.2 million and the country is striving to receive 13 million by the end of this year.