HCM CITY: Ho Chi Minh City is on track to post a 7 percent increase in the number of foreign visitors and a 10 percent rise in tourism revenues this year. A new statement from the city government said it is estimated to earn VND94.6 trillion ($4.19 billion) from tourism this year.
Foreign tourists to Ho Chi Minh City in 2015 are set to hit 4.7 million while domestic tourists are expected to reach 19.3 million, up 13 percent. The city described the growth as “good.”
The city is one of the most popular Southeast Asian destinations and home to many colonial icons such as the Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Other top attractions include the War Remnants Museum, the Independence Palace and the Cu Chi Tunnel.
Several new ones have been added to the list this year. Nguyen Hue walking street was opened in late April and many foreigners are visiting it every day. The boat tour on the eight-kilometer Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal has also been popular since it was launched in September.
The city government said it aims to attract 5.1 million foreign visitors and 21.8 million Vietnamese next year, with stronger promotional efforts. A relatively good year for the city has been overshadowed by safety concerns as street crimes against tourists are not uncommon. Tourists have also complained about being ripped off and overcharged by street vendors.
