scmp.com Published: 6:00pm, 12 Feb 2026

At a time when other popular parts of Asia are struggling with dwindling tourist numbers, how is Vietnam ⁠hitting record numbers of visitors?

Vietnam has kicked off the new tourism year by shattering records. According to the national tourism authority, VNAT, almost 2.5 million international visitors arrived in January – the highest number ever recorded in a single month and an 18.5 per cent jump over the previous year.

While these figures represent an economic triumph, they also highlight a shifting geopolitical map.

Travellers are increasingly bypassing the smouldering border disputes between Thailand and Cambodia in favour of the relative stability found in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, this new-found “stability” brings its own set of growing pains.

This surge is being driven by a diversifying demographic.

While most visitors still hail from within Asia, European arrivals are climbing significantly. VNAT credits this boom to eased visa rules – such as the 45-day visa-free stay for German citizens – alongside a rise in direct international flights and Vietnam’s growing reputation as a premier long-haul winter escape.

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