INDOCHINA RISING FROM SHADOWS TO SHINE AS ASEAN'S PREMIER TOURIST DESTINATION

By Vijian Paramasivam

PHNOM PENH, Dec 21 (Bernama) -- The Indochina region, once ravaged by war and suffering, is now a flourishing tourism destination attracting millions of foreign visitors annually with its iconic charms.

Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam have attracted a combined 25 million tourists so far this year and that could easily generate over RM135 billion (US$30) billion by the end of 2024.

The Lonely Planet in its latest report “22 of the Best Places to Visit in Asia in 2025” ranked Luang Prabang in Laos as the top most exciting destination, followed by Bangkok, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and Vietnam’s heritage town Hoi An.

Unparalleled wonders — a rich civilisation, picturesque mountain ranges, exotic beaches, and archaeological sites — are alluring travellers from all segments, from millennials to senior citizens, around the globe.

The resilient tropical Indochina region is rapidly transforming into vibrant economies after overcoming the hardships of prolonged wars, poverty, isolation, and climatic challenges.

“These three locations are now enjoying political stability and appealing to international tourists, especially Vietnam. The governments are also aggressively promoting tourism as a source of income.

“Previously, these countries were not in the limelight but now tourism players are observing their growing attraction that appeals to any tourists,” the Federation of ASEAN Travel Associations president, Datuk Tan Kok Liang, told Bernama from Kuala Lumpur.

Industrious people of Indochina have transformed economic hardship into bustling trading markets, architectural ruins into touristic marvels, landmines into enchanting rice fields, and their culture and heritage into awed attractions for foreigners.

Over 1.9 million foreigners toured the magnificent Luang Prabang located along the majestic Mekong River so far this year. It is home to ancient temples, scenic mountains and colourful festivals.

Laos tourism industry’s revenue is expected to surpass the RM4.5 (US$1 billion) mark this year, perhaps it will be a record earnings.  

Vietnam is experiencing a booming tourism industry as well. According to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, four million international tourists visited Hanoi, which is rapidly becoming a global destination that boasts a rich cultural heritage alongside modern attractions.

Hoi An, the ancient town on Vietnam's central coast, attracted nearly four million visitors this year, while the country is expected to welcome a total of 16 million visitors in 2024.

Meanwhile, in neighbouring Cambodia, the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap that houses the iconic Angkor Wat, received 972,504 foreign visitors until this week. Ticket sales alone earned US$42 million until November, said the Angkor Enterprise that manages the complex.

The strategically located Indochina is undergoing a tectonic shift in terms of air connectivity, infrastructure development, tourist facilities, and hotels to romantic island resorts.

“Tourism investments are surging to develop infrastructure and hotel facilities. Vietnam for instance has improved its facilities and it offers a wide range of cultural and heritage attractions that are popular among foreigners.

“Better connectivity has certainly helped the Indochina region to grow and they are well placed to tap the ASEAN market with about 670 million population as well. All short haul destinations are able to attract tourists,” said Tan.

The power of social media, bloggers and governments’ tourism initiatives, affordable travel, political stability and improved security for travellers are fuelling tourist dollars in the region that was once beyond many travellers’ dreams.

-- BERNAMA