On June 24, 2023, the Vietnamese National Assembly passed the Law amending and supplementing a number of articles of the “Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam,” marking an important step forward in attracting tourism and promoting foreign relations. According to the new regulations, from August 15, 2023, these new visa policies will officially take effect.
Vietnam issues electronic visas (E-visas) to all citizens of 257 countries and territories around the world.
Previously, Vietnam applied electronic visas for 80 countries with a maximum duration of 30 days. According to the new regulations issued from August 15, 2023, Vietnam will officially expand electronic visas (E-visas) to all citizens of 257 countries and territories around the world for a maximum period of 3 months (90 days) and valid for one or multiple entries.
This is a breakthrough in promoting international relations, tourism development in particular, and socio-economic development in general during Vietnam’s integration with the world. However, with these new policy changes, foreigners can safely plan longer travel or business trips in Vietnam without worrying about visa extensions in the short term.
Vietnam Extends Stay Period for People Entering the Country Under Unilateral Visa Exemption from 15 Days to 45 Days
According to the new regulations in the Amended and Supplemental Law, from August 15, 2023, citizens of 13 countries with unilateral visa exemption will have their visa exemption period to enter Vietnam extended up to 45 days (increased three times compared to the previous 15-day stay period): Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Ireland, Russian, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus.
This change is considered a hot topic in the fields of tourism and economics. Extending the visa exemption period is an important step to attract a large number of international tourists to Vietnam, while strengthening cohesion and cooperation with international partners. It will also help stimulate the local economy, especially in tourism, restaurants, hotels, and related services.
Vietnam Considers Visa Exemption for More Citizens of Some Wealthy Countries
In the context of some Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand and Malaysia launching a tourism race in the region to attract foreign tourists, especially from China, with a visa-free policy.
On February 24, 2024, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh directed immigration authorities to consider additional visa exemptions for a number of wealthy retirees from Europe, Northeast Asia, North America, India, and some Middle Eastern countries, and increase the entry time from 6 to 12 months or 36 months to promote tourism recovery.
Vietnam welcomed 12.6 million international visitors last year in 2023, only about 70% of the pre-Covid number. China, India, and Australia were some of Vietnam’s largest tourist sources last year, so industry insiders expect the Vietnamese government to consider visa exemptions for citizens of these countries. This is to create additional opportunities for tourism and economic development of the country.
Vietnam currently waives visas for visitors from 26 countries compared to 162 countries for Malaysia and Singapore, 157 for the Philippines, 68 for Japan, 66 for South Korea, and 64 for Thailand.
Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes and beaches, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and rapidly developing infrastructure has emerged as a premier destination for M.I.C.E. events in Southeast Asia. From bustling cities to serene coastal resorts, Vietnam offers diverse venues that blend business formality with unforgettable natural experiences. This post explores top M.I.C.E. destinations across Vietnam, showcasing the unique attributes each location brings to corporate events, conferences, and incentive travel. Whether you’re planning a large-scale international conference or an executives retreat trip, these Vietnamese destinations promise to deliver world-class facilities amidst breathtaking backdrops, where business and leisure perfectly converge.
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1. HO CHI MINH CITY
As Vietnam’s bustling economic powerhouse, Ho Chi Minh City blends vibrant urban energy with rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its dynamic business environment, modern infrastructure, and a wide array of luxury accommodations, the city is perfectly equipped to host large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events. Its strategic location and excellent connectivity make it a preferred choice for both local and international M.I.C.E. gatherings.
WHY?
Bustling economic hub of Vietnam
Modern infrastructure and international-standard venues
Excellent flight connectivity
Diverse luxury hotels, entertainment and dining options
Rich cultural experiences and historical sites
Key Venues:
Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC)
GEM Convention Center
Sheraton Hotel
(Sheraton Hotel Sai Gon)
2. HANOI
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a unique fusion of historical charm and contemporary sophistication. With its well-preserved colonial architecture, serene lakes, and bustling “Old Quarter’, the city provides an inspiring backdrop for meetings and conferences. Its political importance, robust infrastructure, including state-of-the-art convention centers and a variety of upscale hotels, ensures that it meets the diverse needs of M.I.C.E. professionals seeking a blend of tradition and modernity.
WHY?
Capital city to access government contacts
Blend of traditional culture and modern facilities
Numerous historical and cultural attractions
Growing number of international hotel chains
Gateway to northern Vietnam’s scenic areas
Key Venues:
National Convention Center
Hanoi International Center for Exhibition (I.C.E)
Melia Hotel
(Melia Hotel Hanoi)
3. DA NANG
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Da Nang is emerging as a premier destination for M.I.C.E. tourism. Known for its stunning beaches, modern skyline, and proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary, Da Nang offers a versatile setting for both business and leisure activities. The city’s excellent transportation links, top-notch facilities, and vibrant hospitality sector make it an ideal location for conferences, incentive trips, and corporate retreats.
WHY?
Central location makes it accessible from North and South
Beautiful beaches for relaxation after meetings
Modern convention centers and resorts
Proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites (Hoi An, My Son)
Developing reputation as a tech hub
Key Venues:
Ariyana Convention Centre
Da Nang Convention Center
Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa
(Ariyana Convention Centre Danang)
4. NHA TRANG
Nha Trang is celebrated for its picturesque coastline and luxurious resorts, making it a favorite among businesses seeking an idyllic setting for incentive travel and corporate events. Beyond its natural beauty, Nha Trang boasts a range of sophisticated convention centers and meeting venues equipped with the latest technology. The city’s blend of relaxation and professionalism provides the perfect environment for productive business gatherings intertwined with leisure activities.
WHY?
Beautiful beach destination ideal for incentive trips
Many high-end resorts with meeting facilities
Water sports and island-hopping opportunities
Blend of relaxation and business amenities
Growing infrastructure for larger events
Key Venues:
Vinpearl Convention Center
Sheraton Hotel & Spa
Intercontinental Hotel
(Intercontinental Hotel Nha Trang)
5. PHU QUOC
Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc stands out as a unique M.I.C.E. destination, offering a tropical paradise for corporate events and incentive programs. With its pristine beaches, high-end resorts, and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for incentive travel and exclusive business retreats. Phu Quoc’s growing infrastructure, including modern convention facilities and luxury accommodations, caters to the needs of businesses looking to combine work with relaxation in an exotic setting.
WHY?
Island setting offers exclusivity and focus
New, purpose-built M.I.C.E facilities
Pristine beaches and natural beauty
Ideal for combining conferences with incentive travel
Unique local experiences (pearl farms, fish sauce factories, scuba diving…)
Key Venues:
Vinpearl Convention Center
JW Marriott Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
InterContinental Long Beach Resort
(JW Marriott Emerald Bay Resort & Spa Phu Quoc)
6. HA LONG BAY
A UNESCO World Heritage site, with breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil seascapes, Ha Long Bay offers a breathtaking backdrop for M.I.C.E events. It’s an exceptional choice for those looking to impress attendees with scenic cruises, island tours, team-building activities in caves and meetings or Gala dinner on cruise, it provides unforgettable experiences.
WHY?
UNESCO World Heritage site provides stunning views
Unique opportunity for meetings on cruise ships
Team-building activities in a natural setting
New resorts with modern M.I.C.E facilities
Memorable setting that increase event attendance
Key Venues:
FLC Ha Long Bay Golf Club & Luxury Resort
Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long
Royal Lotus Ha Long Resort & Villas
(FLC Golf Club & Luxury Resort Ha Long Bay)
7. HOI AN
Hoi An, a charming historic ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique blend of historical charm, unique cultural experiences and modern amenities, making it perfect for intimate conferences, cultural-themed incentive trips. It was a historic trading port with well-preserved ancient architecture till today. Traditional houses, cultural landmarks and vibrant lantern-lit streets create inspiring events that are both memorable and effective.
WHY?
UNESCO World Heritage town with unique charm
Boutique hotels and luxury resorts excellent for intimate meetings, incentive trips, or creative workshops.
Rich cultural experiences and cooking classes or farming for team building
Able to combine business with leisure by exploring the ancient town or the nearby beaches
Photogenic setting for event documentation
Key Venues:
Hoiana Hotel & Suites
MGallery Royal Hotel
Shilla Monogram Hotel
(Hoiana Hotel & Suites Quang Nam)
8. DA LAT
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring”, Da Lat captivates visitors with its cool climate, lush landscapes, and French colonial architecture. This charming city is ideal for companies seeking a serene and creative environment for retreats, team-building activities, and strategic meetings. Da Lat’s array of high-end resorts and picturesque settings provide a refreshing alternative to the bustling cityscapes, fostering a conducive atmosphere for innovation and collaboration.
WHY?
Cool climate and scenic landscapes
Offers several high-end resorts and hotels with event spaces, often set in beautiful surroundings like lakes, pine forests, and flower gardens.
Peaceful environment ideal for focused meetings, retreats or team-building activities.
Adventure activities for team building (trekking, canyoning)
Charming distinctive French colonial architecture abounds
Key Venues:
Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel
Terracotta Hotel & Resort
Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa
(Terracotta Hotel & Resort Da Lat)
Vietnam’s diverse range of M.I.C.E. destinations offers something for every kind of business event, from bustling urban hubs to serene, scenic retreats. Whether you’re planning a large-scale international conference or an intimate corporate retreat, the country’s blend of modern infrastructure, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty ensures that your event will be both productive and memorable. With its continued growth as a global M.I.C.E. hub, Vietnam is an exciting destination where business and leisure come together seamlessly.
Ma Bo is a remote area in the middle of the Central Highlands mountains, a destination for those who want to enjoy the wild natural outdoors and discover the distinctive characteristics of the Churu people – an ethnic minority having their unique language and culture, and always a smile on their faces.
(The beautiful scenery of the Central Highlands)
The roads are adorned with the gleaming yellow hues of the ripening rice fields, creating a beautiful and captivating sight. As you traverse farther into the heart of Ma Bo, you seem to be transported back in time. The simplicity of the local people’s lifestyle stands in profound contrast to the complexity of bustling and modern city life from where you come. Life here, despite its difficulties and deprivations, is lived in harmony with nature, and the locals always wear smiles on their faces.
The Churu people – an ethnic minority with their own language but no writing system, transmit their concepts and knowledge through language, community activities, and customs. This unique mode of cultural preservation adds an extra layer of richness to the tapestry of Ma Bo, inviting you to delve deeper into the authentic and time-honored traditions that continue to shape the region.
(The Churu kids are incredibly adorable, their innocence and joy adding a heartwarming)
Meandering over 20 km through the forest, along muddy and steep roads, this trip is not just a physical challenge but also an opportunity to grasp the local saying: “Getting to your limit” always involves the forest, but never alone.
(Despite the mud and challenges)
If every journey was mapped out ahead of time or easily conquered, we wouldn’t have those stories that make us smile to ourselves and say, “So I have discovered my limits and conquered them.” There would be no reminiscing about the unexpected twists in the trail that tested yet refined us.
(An adventure that combines exercise and enjoyment)
The beautiful scenery of the Central Highlands, with mountains and old forests, makes every pedal stroke memorable. The winding roads feel like melodious notes composing a natural concert of the mountains and forests. Additionally, the simple and peaceful Churu people add an authentic local touch to the journey. Discovering Ma Bo is an adventure that combines exercise and enjoyment, as well as an opportunity to make lasting memories with friends and family. The trip accommodates all ages and fitness levels, as you can go at your own pace.
(The green hills and golden rice fields appeared beautiful along our entire path)
So discover Ma Bo, take in its natural and cultural riches, and break through your limits!
