Vietnam’s cultural and natural attractions that value MICE
Vietnam, with its two deltas, its magnificent landscapes, the mosaic of its 54 ethnicities and its cultural richness, continues to seduce more and more tour operators, including MICE providers. Convenient transit point for Indochina countries – and beyond – Vietnam is a must-see MICE destination with multiple attractions and opportunities.
Vietnam, one of the best destination for MICE tourism - Photo : Internet
MICE tourism in Vietnam, a post-Covid challenge
If in recent years, MICE tourism has grown in quantity and quality, the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed service providers to be agile to adapt. MICE companies need to use technology to effectively operate their customers in the 4.0 era.
According to data from Saigontourist Travel Services Company, the number of MICE year visitors increased by 10% in the third quarter of 2023 compared to the same quarter of the previous year. So there is room for Vietnam to become the main MICE destination in the Southeast Asian region.
Did you know that? Vietnam is between 1 and 4 hours maximum from the business centers of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and southern China. This proximity and cheap flights give Vietnam extra value as less time is lost on long-haul flights to destinations beyond Indochina.
Vietnam is determined to become the leading MICE tourist destination in the region. Cities like Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City, but also Da Nang, Nha Trang or Vung Tau have invested in recent years in high-end infrastructure and accommodation. Moreover, Vietnam has received the title of "Best MICE tourist destination in Asia", an award given at the Tourism Awards World MICE 2021.
Well conducted, MICE tourism not only generates income in the tourism sector but also opens many opportunities for access and socio-economic development through international conferences and seminars. However, Vietnam has many advantages to encourage the development of tourism of this type, thanks to its diverse historical heritage and the richness and diversity of its natural landscapes.
MICE tourism in Vietnam, more challenges
If MICE tourism in Vietnam is a very important activity in the local tourism industry, with a strong development in recent years, the Dragon Country still lacks infrastructure to develop this type of tourism. And the challenge is twofold: first, having sufficient infrastructure to organize large events with thousands of people and, second, the technology to implement. Moreover, organizing a MICE is not just about managing an event or conference. MICE tourism stakeholders must be proactive for MICE participants, whether in terms of meals, place of stay, excursion, shopping or cultural visits.
In short, it is necessary to synchronize many areas, such as the creation of new tourism products, the improvement of services of service providers while ensuring the promotion of MICE tourism. And despite – or because of – all these challenges, Vietnam is slowly but surely establishing itself on the MICE tourism scene, highlighting its unique attractions and opportunities.
Ba Be National Park, a hidden gem for MICE tourism - Photo : Mr Linh's Adventure
Vietnam’s attractions that value tourism MICE
First of all, it should be noted here that the
new visa policy – 45-day visa exemption for some nationals and the possibility of staying in Vietnam for up to three months – has created favourable conditions for travellers, including MICE.
Natural wonders
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a natural wonder but also rich in cultural history. Outdoor activities abound in the bay, with kayaking between karst cliffs, hiking and climbing. A top destination for Team Building.
Ba Be National Park
Ba Be National Park, located less than 250 km from Hanoi, offers some of Vietnam’s most impressive scenery. The park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with many trails winding through the dense jungle. To combine conferences and life-size adventures.
Mount Fansipan
For those looking for a challenge, hiking to the top of Mount Fansipan, nicknamed the Roof of Indochina and rising to 3,143 meters, is a must.
Vietnam invests in High Level accommodation for Mice travelers - Photo : Internet
Nha Trang
This internationally renowned resort for its bay and beaches is the rising destination of MICE tourism in Vietnam
Da Nang
A popular city, Da Nang is known for its sumptuous beaches and luxury resorts (and seafood restaurants !).
Phu Quoc
The largest island of Vietnam offers postcard landscapes and some of the most beautiful resorts in the palanches country.
Fascinating cultural heritage of Vietnam - Photo : Pixabay
The cultural and historical wonders
Despite the pain, it is now possible to visit the tunnels of Cu Chi outside HCMC-city, to howl AK-47 and M60, pay tribute by visiting the War Remnants Museum, and explore the battlefields in the rainforest or visit Dien Bien Phu, now a memorial site.
The Temple of the Literature
Located in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature is one of the most important monuments in the country. It was built in 1070 and is dedicated to Confucius. The site is also considered the first university in Vietnam.
The Imperial City of Thang Long
Also located in Hanoi, the Imperial City of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the capital of Vietnam for almost 13 centuries.
The Museum of Ethnology of Vietnam
Offering a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s different ethnicities, this museum in Hanoi is an ideal venue for cultural and educational events.
Charming Ancient Town of Hoi An - Photo : Pixabay
The old town of Hoi An
Hoi An, a historic port city, has been an important international commercial port since the 16th century. The Old Quarter of Hoi An is recognized as
a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its well-preserved buildings and vibrant pedestrian streets, with outdated charm.
The market of Ben Thanh
Located in former Saigon (now HCM-city), this popular walk is an ideal place for team building activities revolving around cuisine and culture
This list does not end here! In this article, Trusted DMC wanted to highlight the natural and cultural attractions of the major sites of Vietnam, which not only offer a vibrant vision of nature, history and culture of the S-shaped country, but also a multitude of opportunities for MICE tourism.