HCMC – Vietnam has been listed 34th in The New York Times’ annual “52 Places to Go in 2026,” released in early 2026, with the U.S. newspaper describing the country as a tourism powerhouse undergoing rapid transformation.
According to The New York Times, Vietnam’s growing appeal stems not only from its natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also from swift improvements in infrastructure and its capacity to serve international travelers.
The newspaper noted that Vietnam is increasingly strengthening its position on the Southeast Asian tourism map, drawing millions of visitors each year thanks to its diverse scenery, ranging from mountainous regions to tropical forests, and its globally acclaimed cuisine.
One of the highlights for 2026 is Vietnam’s strong push in transport infrastructure development. Phase one of Long Thanh International Airport is expected to be completed in June 2026. Once fully operational, the airport is projected to become the country’s largest aviation gateway, with a designed capacity of around 100 million passengers per year.
Alongside infrastructure upgrades, Vietnam is also witnessing an expansion of high-end international hotel brands. Several luxury accommodation projects are scheduled to open in 2026.
At the same time, the Vietnamese Government has been implementing more open visa policy. The expansion of visa exemptions and longer visa-free stays for citizens of many countries are seen as important factors in making travel to Vietnam more convenient and flexible, while improving the country’s competitiveness on the global tourism map.
