Australians are falling in love with Vietnam
Posted by admin on December 6, 2010 under Vietnam travel News | 
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Australians love Vietnam as statistics show that visitors from Down Under are flocking to the country like never before. They also represent the largest non-Eastern growth segment in Vietnam.
Vietnam’s National Administration of Tourism reported a 128% rise in Australian visitor numbers in 2010, the highest percentage increase of inbound arrivals from non-Asian countries.
The Asia-Pacific Travel Intentions Survey, a poll conducted by Visa and the Pacific-Asia Travel Association, also showed that 16% of Australians plan to visit Vietnam in the coming two years.
Caravelle Hotel SaiGon
Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic Caravelle Hotel has seen a two-fold increase in visitors from Australia this year, while the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital’s most prestigious address, has reported a 48% rise over the past 12 months.
On the fledgling central coast, the award-winning Nam Hai resort has witnessed a significant upsurge in visitors from Down Under too. The property, recently voted among Asia’s 20 best resorts by readers of Conde Nast Traveler, reported a 69% increase in Australian occupants through the first eight months of the year.
There are various reasons for Australian holiday-makers heading for Vietnam in addition to their favourite playgrounds of Indonesia, particularly Bali, Fiji and Thailand.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
The improvement in air links between Vietnam and Australia has contributed to this change in travel trend among the Australian travellers. Low-cost carrier Jetstar operates regular flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Australia’s major conurbations, while competition between other airlines means that travelling to Vietnam has never been more cost effective.
“Australia escaped the worst of the global downturn and its dollar is relatively robust, which means Aussies are travelling as much as they have ever done,” said Kai Speth, general manager of the Metropole Hanoi.
The hotel’s marketing of both the property and the destination in major travel trade shows also contributed to its healthy occupancy.
John Gardner, Caravelle’s general manager, concurred that an increased focus on the Australian market is paying dividends. He also believes Vietnam is finally beginning to rival traditional regional heavyweights, such as Thailand and Indonesia.
“Thailand is beginning to recover after the recent turmoil,” Gardner said. “But throughout that stumble, and troubles elsewhere, Vietnam has sharpened its profile as the region’s most safe and secure destination. Safety and security is far more top of mind for travellers today than it was 10 long years ago.”
Gardner also points to other factors that are boosting the country’s reputation Down Under – its solidifying infrastructure and its value for money.
“As well, Vietnam is catering to a wide variety of customers from business visitors to traditional sun-seekers who are steering toward an array of resorts opening throughout the country.”
Australia’s close proximity to Vietnam is also another contributing factor, said Damien Van Eyk, Australasian sales manager for Exotissimo Travel.
“I also think that word of mouth is a very important factor. As more Australians experience the sights, sounds and cuisine of Vietnam, they come home and share these experiences with their family and friends.”
