Da Nang – A tourism connectivity program between Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta region has significantly boosted the region’s appeal, offering a diverse array of tourism experiences. Eighty tours have been established, linking Ho Chi Minh City with various Mekong Delta localities, such as Tien Giang, Vinh Long, and Can Tho, providing visitors a glimpse into the tranquil, rustic landscapes of the Delta.
According to Vietnam News Agency, From January to September, according to data from 100 travel firms participating in the program, 1.8 million visitors joined these tours, with each spending approximately 800,000 VND to 1 million VND (32.96 – 41.19 USD). Bui Thi Ngoc Hieu, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism of Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the crucial role of the travel business association and service providers in promoting tourism products and sharing them with the local tourism community.
Hieu suggested that involved localities develop more tourism incentives to maintain service quality for both domestic and international tourists. She highlighted the need to create key tourism products to attract high-end travelers and proposed that localities seek policies from their People’s Committees to encourage investment in entertainment zones, thereby diversifying tourism offerings and extending visitors’ stays.
Representatives from several Mekong Delta localities’ Departments of Culture, Sports and Tourism advocated for the use of digital technology to optimize and manage tourism resources. Cao Van Tung, Director of the Domestic Tourism Centre at Ben Thanh Tourism Joint Stock Company, suggested that localities redefine their tourism brands to develop more distinct tourism products. Travel firms expressed their willingness to support local authorities in this endeavor.
Tran Thi Bao Thu, Marketing and Communications Director at Vietluxtour, advised that each locality should create unique tourism products, such as differentiating Tram Chim National Park from Mua Xuan Tourist Area, and spiritual tourism in Long An from that in Soc Trang.
Travel firms also noted that while Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta region have the potential to capitalize on their network of rivers, tranquil orchards, and green environment, forming standalone three-day tours remains challenging due to infrastructure limitations. They recommend building inter-regional trips to leave lasting impressions on visitors and encourage repeat visits.