LITERATURE REVIEW FOR VIETNAM TOURISM

Literature review for Vietnam Tourism



Literature review for Vietnam Tourism

Introduction

Vietnam located in the South East Asia. It is an exotic location for tourism, with beautiful natural scenes and exciting natural features and landscape (www.travel.ezinemark.com). Vietnam tourism industry is growing rapidly and it now one of the most famous tourist spot in Asia-Pacific region. In the year 2009, it was reported that the tourism industry of Vietnam contributed more than 13% to the country's total GDP (Government of Vietnam). Government support has been a vital force for the tourism industry. Government is spending heavily to promote the activities all around the globe in order to further boost the tourism industry (Suntikil et al, 2008). It is evident from the fact that number of tourist visiting Vietnam grew from 92,500 in the year 1988 to 3,583,486 in 2006 (Vietnam NationalAdministration of Tourism [VNAT], 2007).

Discussion

Vietnam is full of historic and picturesque areas of that attract thousands of tourists, which is a treat to the eyes of every person (Le, 2005). In the north lies the Ha Long Bay which has endless natural caves and rock spits surfacing out vertically into the sea. Hanoi is popular for its historical monuments. Other than that, its lakes and temples, and its widespread French colonial architecture is exceedingly scenic. Gradually, the hotel facilities and resorts are improving as investors are coming in, seeing the growing potential of Vietnam's tourism industry.

There are several reasons why Vietnam seems to be an attractive spot for a traveler. For people living in advanced countries, viewing nature is something very rare. Vietnam is full of places where the art of nature comes alive (MacCannell, 2001). The top destinations in Vietnam include the fascinating rice fields in Sapa, above 3000 natural monuments springing out from the crystal clear water in Halong Bay, the peaceful river flowing in Tam Coc, floating villages and markets in Mekong river, and a number of natural and cultural heritage sites (Hall & Page, 2000). Vietnam is recognized as being one of the safest countries in the world. With the controlled system, foreigners are highly protected and welcomed. One can travel and walk around feeling safe. The people there are very hospital and friendly (travel.ezinemark.com). They are living happily, and one can talk and chat with them happily. Vietnam is comparatively cheap; with a $1, you can have a lunch or dinner. There are other adventures one can indulge in, like paragliding Muine's sea beach and riding Harley Davison motorbikes on the countryside. Transport system is readily available and is comfortable (www.vntraveler.com).

The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) is planning to invest heavily and have already made plans to improve infrastructure. According to VNAT sources, the country already had planned 625 tourism projects in 2010, with monetary support of capital US$12.3 billion.

The tourism industry has drawn many foreign investors, with hotel and resort development being the primary focus (Kennedy & Williams, 2001). There is a need to start developing and improving these services rather than ...