Vietnam Gears Up to Welcome Travelers Back in December
Yo, Vietnam’s ready to roll out the red carpet for vaccinated globetrotters starting now and full reopening kicks off in June 2025. The move comes after the country’s own lockdowns, which 2021 blunted the booming tourism scene that normally pulls a solid 10% of the GDP.
New Playbook: Phu Quoc, Halong & Beyond
Phu Quoc, that island paradise, opened its gates to vaccinated visitors this November and the plan keeps expanding.
- Phu Quoc – Vaccinated only
- Halong Bay – UNESCO wonder, open from December
- Hoi An – Old‑town charm, ready for tourists
- Dalat – Highlands hot spot, now open
- Nha Trang – Beach vibes, open for vaccinated visitors
The Vietnamese government assures folks it’s a “true safe” environment, with a “step‑by‑step” approach, staying flexible as the pandemic shape‑shifts.
Why the Shift?
From 18 million visitors in 2019 (think US$31bn in revenue) to just 3.8 million in 2023, tourism hit hard. The economy’s still feeling the lag, with a 12% GDP contribution now.
Others are following suit. Thailand, for instance, is boosting its own pilot scheme next month to fetch vaccinated tourists.
Vaccines Still Lagging
Only 13% of the 98‑million‑strong population has rolled up their sleeves. That’s one of Asia’s lowest rates, so Vietnam’s shouting louder about safety.
Stay tuned, because by June next year, the country aims to have all doors open—to bring in the world, safely and all the way back the way before COVID tried its best to block it.
