Vietnam's Tourism Problems

Tourism plays a vital role in the economic development of a country. Tourism is the second largest foreign exchange earner in Vietnam accounted for 7% of GDP. Vietnam has fascinated people from all over the world with her history and culture. There are monuments, beaches, places of religious interests, hill resorts, etc. that attract tourists. In spite of equipped with such beautiful spots, not much tourists are coming to Vietnam, Recently the tourist traffic to Vietnam has increased by 10% compared to 2012, but there is still a question why so few people plan to come to Vietnam, as compared to the either countries of South East Asia. Barely 7 million tourists arrive in Vietnam annually, while Malaysia and Thailand are able to attract at least three times more than that of Vietnam.

Vietnam's tourism problems are internal, not external. Foreign tourists are well aware of Vietnam and its attraction. So Vietnam tourism problems are not external but internal. Here are three internal problems that need to be solved as soon as possible.

Firstly, there is the visa issue. Recent report indicates that the number of Vietnamese visitors to Cambodia has increased. This is due to an easing of visa restrictions. Hopefully this has opened the eyes of Vietnamese tourism officials, easy visa would increase the number of tourist visitors to Vietnam instantly.

Secondly, we have the problem of repeat visits. Currently, 95% of visitors to Vietnam - WONT come back again, the main reason being the constant overcharging and scamming they encounter on their trip. This gives Vietnam a very bad reputation amongst travellers, with today internet technologies such as facebook and tweeter bad words spread out very quickly, this kind of marketing should not be underestimated. Considerable training and education is needed to introduce a culture of fairness and respect amongst people working in tourism-related businesses - they need to learn that a happy tourist will spread out the word...