As part of its strategy to expand international markets, Quang Ninh is actively strengthening linkages, promoting destinations and developing tourism products tailored to Thailand - one of the region’s most promising source markets.
In late March, Quang Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in coordination with Visit Indochina (Da Nang City), organised a tourism promotion and connectivity programme for a famtrip delegation of 60 travel businesses from Chiang Mai and Bangkok, Thailand. Over three days, Thai tour operators directly surveyed and experienced key tourism products of the province, including the Yen Tu Complex of Historical Monuments and Scenic Landscapes, Ha Long Bay cruises, and a live performance inside Ngoc Rong Cave in the Vung Duc of Historical Complex. The programme provided a basis for evaluating and designing tour packages suited to the preferences and demands of Thai travellers.
Chairman of the Chiang Mai Tourism Business Association Somrit Haikum noted that the delegation was highly impressed by Quang Ninh’s well-developed tourism infrastructure, convenient transport connectivity and service quality. He emphasised that these factors represent a strong competitive advantage compared to other destinations. With flexible itineraries and effective promotion, he expressed confidence that the number of Thai visitors to Quang Ninh will increase significantly.
With a population of nearly 72 million, an average income of around USD 7,000 per person per year, close geographical proximity and visa exemption for entry into Vietnam, Thailand is considered a highly potential market for Vietnam’s tourism sector in general and Quang Ninh in particular. Notably, Thai travel trends are increasingly shifting towards family trips and small-group travel, with a focus on experiences, leisure travel and cultural elements.
In its long-term strategy, Quang Ninh is not only strengthening bilateral ties with Thailand but also expanding multilateral cooperation in the region. A notable example is the cooperation established in 2006 between Quang Ninh (Vietnam), Luang Prabang and Udon Thani, three localities with prominent World Heritage sites, forming an attractive “heritage triangle”. The province is also promoting research and development of charter flights connecting Thailand to Van Don International Airport, facilitating improved transport connectivity for tourism development. Enhanced connections via both road and air routes are expected to make it easier for international visitors, particularly from Thailand, to experience multiple destinations within a single journey.
By Hoang Quynh
