A new generation of young Vietnamese entrepreneurs and tourism enthusiasts is leveraging the power of digital platforms to revolutionize the country’s tourism landscape, showcasing its vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery to a global audience. These young individuals, armed with creativity, technological savvy, and a deep-seated passion for their homeland, are not only transforming how tourism is experienced but also contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth and cultural preservation. Their efforts are driven by a desire to share authentic experiences, foster sustainable practices, and elevate Vietnam’s global tourism profile.
The Rise of Digital Tourism Influencers
To Thái Hùng, a Hanoi native, epitomizes this emerging trend. Hùng, a prominent travel blogger, launched his blog, “Tô đi đâu” (Where Tô Goes), in 2019, quickly garnering a significant following. He is also a founding member of the “Check in Việt Nam” Facebook page, boasting over 1.7 million followers. Hùng’s unique approach sets him apart: he transforms his travel experiences into tangible tourism products. His innovative projects, including “Kem Checkin” (Check-in Ice Cream), “Hộ chiếu du lịch” (Travel Passport), and “Dấu mộc Việt Nam” (Vietnam Stamp), are not merely novel ideas; they represent a concrete effort to materialize cultural values and enhance the overall tourist experience. His initial projects, developed over approximately three months in what was then Hà Giang province (now Tuyên Quang), resulted in iconic products deeply rooted in local culture. Currently boasting over 181,000 followers on TikTok, Hùng consistently promotes positive messages about Vietnamese culture and tourism, emphasizing the importance of meticulous attention to detail: “In tourism, we need meticulous and accurate investment in both content and visuals, because we are conveying the culture and identity of our nation. This is something to be proud of and should be expressed with the utmost respect and responsibility.”
Youth-Led Tourism Clubs and the Power of Collaboration
The rise of digital platforms has fostered a vibrant ecosystem of youth-led tourism initiatives. Numerous clubs have emerged, connecting young tourism enthusiasts with established businesses and travel agencies. These collaborations provide invaluable practical learning opportunities, honing skills in creative thinking, adaptable communication, and community responsibility. This collaborative spirit is crucial in shaping a sustainable and vibrant tourism sector.
One such example is the Young Tourism Club, established in 2012 within the Faculty of Tourism, Hanoi National University of Social Sciences and Humanities. This club serves as a hub for young people passionate about exploration and aspiring to become tour guides. Members benefit from sharing knowledge, skills, and practical experience through organized trips, mentorship by experienced professionals, and guidance from previous generations in the tourism industry. This fosters passion while providing a launchpad for their aspirations.
Young People as Ambassadors and Innovators
The impact of young people in promoting Vietnamese tourism in the digital age is undeniable. According to Hoàng Quốc Hòa, Director of the Tourism Information Center at the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism: “Through the vibrant articles, images, and videos on social media, young people have shared their authentic experiences with the public. Recognizing this positive factor, the Tourism Information Center has implemented projects like ‘Vietnam: Go to Love!’, ‘Galaxy AI Understands Vietnamese – Honoring Vietnamese Tourism,’ and ‘Go to Chill – Feel to Love,’ which have received enthusiastic responses from young people. This demonstrates that young people are both ‘communication ambassadors’ promoting tourism and inspirational figures driving the wave of domestic tourism in Vietnam.”
Phạm Hồng Long, Associate Professor, Doctor, Chairman of the Scientific Council and Training, Head of the Department of Culture and Tourism Geography, Faculty of Tourism, Hanoi National University of Social Sciences and Humanities, provides further insight: “Today’s young generation possesses a positive energy and a strong drive for innovation. They are not only at the forefront of trends but also boldly create new trends in tourism, such as discovering unique destinations and innovative tourism products. With their access to technology, many young people have become content creators with significant influence, conveying tourism messages on social media platforms, thereby starting businesses based on their passion and understanding of their homeland’s culture. This is the journey of a generation that dares to think, dares to do, and tells the story of Vietnam in the language of the times and with the passionate heart of youth.”
Challenges and Opportunities: Navigating the Path to Success
Despite their enthusiasm and innovative spirit, young Vietnamese entrepreneurs in the tourism sector face significant hurdles. These include limited experience, skill gaps, financial constraints, and difficulties in understanding market trends and competitive landscapes. These challenges can significantly hinder their opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment.
To facilitate the success of this young generation, Professor Long emphasizes the crucial role of government support through targeted policies and readily accessible resources. He also highlights the importance of collaboration with travel agencies to organize training programs and provide practical experience, enabling young individuals to learn and grow within the industry. Investing in this young workforce is vital for building a dynamic and sustainable tourism sector in Vietnam.
The Role of Sustainable Practices and Cultural Preservation
Đỗ Ngọc Phúc, a tour guide from Tương Mai ward in Hanoi, exemplifies the commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Driven by his passion since his student days, Phúc approaches his work not merely as guiding tourists but as sharing authentic stories with sincerity. He strives to capture the beauty of Vietnam’s natural landscapes, culture, and people, sharing his experiences on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. Phúc underscores the need for sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental protection and respect for local cultures. He believes that young people should not just be beneficiaries of tourism’s growth but also pioneers in shaping the future of Vietnam’s tourism, creating a modern yet culturally rich industry that effectively connects Vietnamese culture and tourism with a global audience.
Building a Sustainable and Vibrant Tourism Future
The collective efforts of these young Vietnamese entrepreneurs and tourism enthusiasts are shaping a new era for the country’s tourism sector. By harnessing the power of digital platforms and prioritizing sustainable practices, they are not only promoting Vietnam’s beauty and culture to the world but also building a more resilient and dynamic tourism industry for the future. Their success hinges on continued support from government agencies, travel industry professionals, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment that empowers the next generation of tourism leaders. Ultimately, their combined efforts are painting a vibrant picture of a tourism landscape that is both modern and deeply rooted in Vietnamese heritage.
