.jpg "Sun World Ba Na Hills offers free bus service from Da Nang")
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DNO - Proximity and convenient flight connections are driving a rapid increase in the number of Thai visitors to Da Nang. However, the city’s tourism sector is making every effort to encourage Thai tourist to stay longer and spend more, as well as have compelling reasons to return.
Da Nang welcomed over 225,000 Thai tourists in the first seven months of the year, up 23% compared to the same period last year. Dozens of round-trip flights currently operate between Da Nang and Bangkok every week.
Short travel distances, direct flights and affordable trip costs give Da Nang a competitive advantage in accessing the Thai market.
Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for International Marketing at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), noted a clear shift in travel trends.
Instead of deciding first on “where to go”, many travelers are now starting with the question “what is the purpose of the trip?”. The trend is particularly evident among younger travelers.
According to the TAT representative, Thai tourists choose Vietnam due to its proximity, affordability and blend of cultural elements that feel both familiar and new.
Culinary experiences, street food, coffee culture, shopping, nature and local culture are major attractions, with Gen Z and weekend travelers emerging as notable market segments.
The “Healing is the New Luxury” message adopted by Thailand’s tourism industry this year reflects growing demand for trips centered on relaxation, connection with nature and authentic local cultural experiences.
This presents an opportunity for Da Nang to expand tourism products tailored to Thai travelers.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the city will continue to step up promotion in the Thai market in tandem with working with airlines, travel companies and partners to maintain and expand its connectivity network.
Da Nang also aims to develop products suited to the preferences of Thai tourists, including beach resorts, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), golf, wedding tourism, wellness and culinary tourism, as well as interregional tours linking heritage destinations.
All these efforts are intended to enhance visitor experiences and extend their stays in the city.
Furthermore, the city seeks to strengthen cooperation with TAT, local authorities, associations, airlines, and business communities in both countries in product development, tourism promotion and cultural exchanges.
Mr. Luong Truong An, Deputy General Director of Vietjet Thailand, emphasized MICE, events, golf and year-round entertainment programs were among the product lines capable of encouraging tourists to stay longer and spend more.
Mr. Lars Londal, General Director in charge of Global Business Development and External Relations at the Doi Dep ecosystem, said golfers were a high-spending visitor segment who generated demand for a wide range of services, including air transportation, accommodation, shopping, spa services and sightseeing tours.
Drawing on his experience organizing golf events in Thailand, Mr. Londal suggested Vietnam and Thailand develop complementary tourism products.
The approach could also pave the way for more diverse “two countries, one destination” itineraries, allowing travelers to combine heritage, beach resorts, cuisine and cultural experiences across destinations in both Vietnam and Thailand.