Study unveils the worst global getaways for Irish families this summer
Traveling as a family can be challenging, particularly when there are young children involved. It's important to plan ahead, be prepared for hiccups and of course,
choose the right destination.
With this in mind, Irish company,
Chill Insurance,
analyzed a number of factors that contribute to an optimal, stress-free holiday for those traveling abroad with little ones.
These factors included flight durations, the availability of family-friendly hotels, average accommodation costs, and meal prices at popular
holiday hotspots.
The study revealed the top and bottom family-friendly locations for 2025.
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It comes as no surprise that Sydney ranks as the worst family holiday destination due to its long indirect flight time of nearly 26 hours. The flight is especially difficult for those traveling with young children and babies.
Thousands of Irish families make the trip to Australia every year, but ultimately, according to Chill Insurance, it is less favorable for a short, relaxing summer vacation.
Sydney is an expensive city and a long flight from Ireland
(Image: Michael Dunning)
Cancún, Mexico was named as the second-worst family destination due to its monsoon season, which can be uncomfortable for children. Additionally, 7-night stay at its 131 family-friendly hotels costs around €4,329, making it one of the priciest options.
Rounding off the worst three is Cape Town, South Africa, primarily due to its long flight time of 15 hours, with a connecting flight, making it less than ideal for families traveling from Ireland.
The list also named Phuket, in Thailand as one of the worst for families. Starting May 1st this year, all foreign visitors will be required to complete the new online
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before their arrival.
This will inevitably add another step to the travel process.
The list of worst destinations also included some unexpected cities, like New York, which is usually just a 6 hour flight from
Dublin
. The list cites the high cost of a family meal - the highest of any city on the list - as a reason that makes it unsuitable for a family trip.
On the flip side, Crete in Greece was named the top family destination. It has 300 family-friendly hotels, 14 hours of sunshine each day, and affordable food and accommodation.
The study also recommends the beautiful island of Sicily and Salou in Spain as
popular and affordable choices
for Irish families this summer. Recently, the Mediterranean island of Malta has been named as the number one destination for chartering a boat this summer.
For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage
here
.
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Tatler Asia
3 days ago
- Tatler Asia
Bangkok's most charming wine bars for a stylish yet laid-back sip
2. Mod Kaew Wine Bar Above Mod Kaew Wine Bar is a relaxed, unpretentious haven for low-intervention wines, with over 100 thoughtfully chosen labels—especially natural gems from France and Spain. Whether you're a seasoned sipper or a curious newcomer, there's a bottle here to match your mood (Photo: Instagram / @modkaewbkk) Above Grilled Jerk Baby Chicken with Caribbean curry and Coconut Johnny Cake—bold island flavours meet natural wine at Mod Kaew (Photo: Instagram / @modkaewbkk) From its beginnings as a modest neighbourhood spot that helped ignite Bangkok's natural wine movement, the playfully named Mod Kaew Wine Bar has evolved into a stylish yet unpretentious destination on Soi Sathorn 12. While its aesthetic may have matured, its welcoming charm remains intact—offering over 100 thoughtfully chosen low-intervention wines from around the globe, with a strong focus on natural bottles from France and Spain. Whether you're sipping by the glass or sharing a bottle, the selection here is curated for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. The kitchen holds its own alongside the wine, with a menu that's as considered as it is flavourful. Highlights include Mediterranean seabass, seared skin-side down and served with roasted onion cream and bay leaf; orecchiette with assorted mushrooms, black garlic and a subtle kick of mala chilli oil; and the ever-popular jerk baby chicken with Caribbean curry sauce and a fragrant coconut Johnny Cake. Guest chef collaborations add further flair to the experience, making Mod Kaew not just a wine bar, but a complete dining destination—where the food excites, the wine delights, and the mood is always just right. Mod Kaew Wine Bar Address: 142 Soi Suksa Witthaya (Soi Sathorn 12), Bang Rak Subdistrict, Bang Rak District, Bangkok, +6682-096-0281 3. Feral Wine Bar Above Feral Wine Bar, a wine bar serving natural wines ranging from Pét-Nat and orange wines from around the world, as well as classic cocktails (Photo: Instagram / @ Above Feral Wine Bar's food menu ranges from small tapas to more substantial sharing plates like Tartare Toast, Pig Trotter Croquette or Buttermilk Waffle Sandwich, as well as desserts (Photo: Instagram / @ For those seeking a wine bar with a twist of character and just the right touch of chic, Feral Wine Bar at 72 Courtyard Thonglor offers a refreshingly offbeat alternative. Perched on the second floor, this urban hideaway blends vinyl records, warm lighting, and an 'Urban Jungle' aesthetic to create a slightly mysterious, effortlessly cool atmosphere—perfect for lingering from early evening into the late hours. Feral's drinks list leans heavily into the world of natural wine, with a globe-spanning selection that includes pét-nats and orange wines, alongside classic cocktails for those in the mood for something familiar. The food, meanwhile, is anything but ordinary. From small, flavour-packed bites like Tartare Toast and Pig Trotter Croquettes to the indulgent Buttermilk Waffle Sandwich—served with runny eggs and maple syrup—the menu invites sharing, savouring, and maybe even a little surprise. For those with a sweet tooth, the Clove-Infused Chocolate Mousse and Yogurt Parfait with courgette jam and matcha granola are not to be missed. Ideal for a low-key date or as a stylish starting point to a night out with friends, Feral is a playful, unpretentious spot that rewards curiosity. Feral Wine Bar Address: 72 Courtyard Thonglor, Sukhumvit Soi 55, Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok, +6663-237-6093 4. Must Wine Bar Above Must Wine Bar serves everything from bar bites to more substantial dishes, and on weekends they also serve brunch, with each dish designed to complement the wines served (Photo: Instagram / @ Above Must Wine Bar offers a rotating wine list of over 600 labels from around the world, from France, Austria, South Africa, to Pét-Nat and Biodynamic Wines (Photo: Instagram / @ From the trailblazing importers behind Fin Wine to the newly reimagined Must Wine Bar at the Sodality 263 project on Thonglor Soi 13, Bangkok's wine scene has never felt more personal—or more refined. What began as a cosy wine bar has evolved into a full-fledged wine dining destination, where the focus lies not only on the taste of wine but also the stories behind each bottle, the rhythm of the seasons, and thoughtful pairings in a setting that feels like dining at a wine-loving friend's home. With a rotating list of over 600 labels from around the world—spanning France, Austria, and South Africa to pét-nats and biodynamic wines—every bottle here is handpicked by the owner, who brings more than two decades of expertise to the table. The menu moves from well-crafted bar bites such as White Anchovy & Butter Crostini, Crab Curry Croquettes and Sai Oua Scotch Eggs to heartier plates like Miso Black Cod, Grilled Lamb Chops and Sautéed Frog Legs. Weekend brunch is equally considered, with dishes designed to pair effortlessly with the wines on offer. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned oenophile, Must offers a welcoming space to sip, savour and share stories over exceptional wine. Must Wine Bar Address: 2nd Floor, SODALITY 263 Project, Thonglor Soi 13, Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok, +6692-599-8919 Read more: Bruno Paillard: Making waves in the world of champagne 5. Botti Wine Bar & Bottle Shop Above A private bar with limited seating, the interior is a dimly lit wooden room with retro black and white cartoons projected on the walls. It serves natural wines from around the world, each bottle handpicked by the owner (Photo: Instagram / @ Above Botti Wine Bar This compact wine bar is located on the 2nd floor of a 140-year-old wooden house, full of its own charm, from the classic, vintage and friendly atmosphere (Photo: Instagram / @ Botti Wine Bar may just be one of the most atmospheric wine bars in Bangkok. Tucked away on the second floor of a 140-year-old wooden house in Soi Sathorn 12, this compact gem charms with its vintage interiors, soft lighting, and just a handful of intimate tables. The space is warm and nostalgic, with dark wood tones and retro black-and-white cartoons adorning the walls—an unexpected, playful touch. At the heart of it all is a carefully curated selection of natural wines from around the world, including sought-after French vintages, handpicked by the owner and rotated every two weeks to keep things fresh. The food offering is delightfully homey, leaning into comfort with a curated menu that complements the wines. Bar snacks like the Truffle Cheese & Cold Cut Platter—complete with honey and crackers—and a Mixed Sausage plate with four varieties are ideal for grazing. For something heartier, the Spaghetti Bolognese is rich and satisfying, the Grilled Pork with Sticky Rice adds a Thai twist, and the Tonkatsu Bowl delivers crunchy, indulgent comfort. Whether you're after a quiet evening with a glass in hand or a relaxed catch-up with friends, Botti offers a setting that feels both personal and quietly special. Botti Wine Bar & Bottle Shop Address: 201 Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Road, Silom Subdistrict, Bang Rak District, Bangkok, +6688-985-4266 6. The Bottleman Wine Bar Above The Bottleman Wine Bar boasts a wine list with over 170 labels from around the world, including classic and natural wines. The owner holds a WSET Level 3 certification from London (Photo: Instagram / @ Above Smoked Duck Breast, Cranberry Jus Smoked duck breast with wood flavor, crispy skin, served with fresh orange and rich cranberry sauce. From The Bottleman Wine Bar (Photo: Instagram / @ The Bottleman Wine Bar is a stylish new addition to Bangkok's wine scene, quietly opening its doors in late 2024 on Witthayu Road. Tucked away on the second floor of a building near All Seasons Place, this sleek, minimalist space channels the understated charm of a Tokyo wine bar—cool, intimate, and quietly refined. With over 170 labels spanning both classic and natural wines, the list reflects a well-travelled palate, curated by an owner who holds a WSET Level 3 certification from London. For those keen to explore, the wine-by-the-glass programme features 24 rotating pours, making it ideal for both newcomers and seasoned sippers. The menu is equally well thought-out, designed with pairings in mind. Highlights include the Smoked Duck Breast with Cranberry Jus—crisp-skinned and fragrant with a whisper of woodsmoke, balanced by zesty orange and a rich cranberry sauce, best enjoyed with a Pinot Noir or orange wine. The Grilled Italian Sausage with creamy mustard and a balsamic-dressed salad is another standout, pairing beautifully with reds across the spectrum. European comfort dishes round out the offering, while live saxophone sessions every Thursday to Saturday add a touch of rhythm to your evening. Whether you're there to discover new bottles or simply unwind, The Bottleman is a welcome hidden gem for wine lovers in the heart of the city. The Bottleman Wine Bar Address: 89/17 Witthayu Road, Lumphini Subdistrict, Pathumwan District, Bangkok, +6680-454-2664 7. Figure Ground Wine Bar Above Figure Ground Wine Bar offers a curated wine list of over 30 labels, including sparkling, white, red and natural wines, with an emphasis on easy-drinking wines (Photo: Instagram / @ Above Figure Ground Wine Bar's sharing-style menu lets you have fun with friends, especially its signature dish, the House Plate, which perfectly pairs cold cuts with homemade vanilla ice cream (Photo: Instagram / @ By day, it's a chic café; by evening, Figure Ground Wine Bar transforms into a lively, design-forward hangout for the city's new generation of wine lovers. Tucked into a minimalist setting with clean lines and warm tones, this Thonglor favourite offers over 30 carefully curated labels—spanning sparkling, white, red, and natural wines—all chosen for their easy-drinking charm. Add in photo-worthy corners, board games, and house or nu-disco beats spun by a resident DJ every Friday and Saturday, and you've got the makings of an effortlessly cool night out. The food is made for sharing, encouraging relaxed, convivial evenings with friends. The signature house plate playfully pairs cold cuts with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream—a sweet-savoury combination designed for wine pairing. Other highlights include spicy Thai-style bites like laab tots, crispy calamari, burrata salad, punchy pastas like AOP and arrabiata, and a satisfying salmon steak with perfectly crisped skin and juicy flesh. Pair it all with a refreshing glass or try the sangranita—a frozen blend of sangria and granita—and you'll quickly see why Figure Ground is the go-to for casual dates, birthday dinners, or easygoing evenings that linger well into the night. Figure Ground Wine Bar Address: 3/2 Suthisan Winitchai Road, Din Daeng Subdistrict, Din Daeng District, Bangkok, +6665-489-4272 Read more: The best speakeasies in Asia, as featured in the Tatler Best Asia 100 list 2024 8. L'Oliva Ristorante Italiano & Wine Bar Above L'Oliva wine bar has a deep and curated wine list from both Abruzzo and all over Italy, in a variety of qualities (Photo: Instagram / @lolivabkk) Above Classic thin-crust pizza, baked in a charcoal oven from L'Oliva (Photo: Instagram / @lolivabkk) L'Oliva is more than just a charming Italian restaurant tucked away in Soi Naphasap 2—it's a haven for wine lovers seeking a warm, greenery-filled escape that feels like stepping into a country house in Abruzzo, one of Italy's most celebrated wine regions. The wine bar here offers an impressively curated list, featuring a wide range of Italian wines from across the country, including DOC, DOCG and IGT labels. From a deep, velvety Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva 1960 to a bright and aromatic Pecorino Extra Dry sparkling white, there's something to suit every palate. Natural wine enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore, with biodynamic and sustainable bottles on offer alongside sparkling, rosé, and dessert wines like Moscato di Pantelleria and rich, mellow Porto Tawny—perfect for a sweet finish. With over ten wines available by the glass, the pairings with L'Oliva's coastal Italian fare come naturally. Pasta lovers shouldn't miss the Chitarrina alla Teramana, a house-made fresh pasta served with tomato sauce and dainty Abruzzo-style meatballs. And for those who favour pizza, the crisp, thin-crust creations from the wood-fired oven offer a delicious taste of tradition in every slice. L'Oliva Ristorante Italiano & Wine Bar Address: Sukhumvit Soi 36, (Sub Soi 2), Khlong Tan Subdistrict, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok, +6694-858-9868 9. Saam Photo 1 of 2 A wine display showcases a wide selection of wines, from natural wines to low intervention wines personally selected by the owner (Photo: Saam) Photo 2 of 2 Jon's Tom-Yum Charcoal-Grilled Corn Ribs menu, Australian-style corn ribs with a charcoal grilled aroma, combined with the rich flavor of Thai tom yum from Saam restaurant (Photo: Saam) If you enjoyed sipping natural wines at Proper Bar, you may find a familiar charm in Saam (สาม)—a creative Thai restaurant and wine bar from the same team, now reimagined with a more intimate atmosphere and an even sharper focus on flavour and innovation. Nestled in the same location, Saam returns with a refreshed concept that blends the boldness of Thai cuisine with the relaxed spirit of an Australian wine bar. The wine list leans toward natural and low-intervention selections, all thoughtfully handpicked by the owner to complement the restaurant's vibrant, spice-forward menu. Each bottle comes with a story, and the friendly team—true to their Aussie roots—are more than happy to guide you through it with warmth and ease. On the table, expect Thai dishes reinterpreted through modern techniques and a playful lens. Standouts include the Larbbb Duck Croquette, offering a crispy take on classic Thai spice; Corn Ribs inspired by the tang of tom yum; and Thai Bolognese Pasta, which reimagines a Western staple with the aroma and depth of Thai herbs. It's an experience where the familiar meets the unexpected, in both the glass and on the plate. Saam Address: 235/4 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Khlong Tan Nuea Subdistrict, Watthana District, Bangkok, +6681-145-3856 10. The Riddler Japanese Gastronomic Dining & Wine Bar Above The Riddler's wine list features over 150 carefully selected wines from around the world. The wines range from classic to New World, and the restaurant's in-house sommelier is on hand to offer professional advice (Photo: Instagram / @theriddlerbangkok) Above Signature dishes include Kamameshi, a claypot rice dish with beef and beef tongue, served with smoked daikon and gobo, topped with cheese foam and an egg yolk from The Riddler (Photo: Instagram / @theriddlerbangkok) If you're after a wine bar that offers more than just a great pour—one where the food is just as compelling as the wine—look no further than The Riddler. This refined Japanese dining destination seamlessly blends culinary creativity with a wine list of over 150 carefully curated labels from around the globe. From Old World favourites like Burgundy and Tuscany to bold expressions from California, Chile, and Australia, there's something for every palate, guided by an in-house sommelier who's ready to share expert, approachable advice. The atmosphere is polished yet welcoming—an elegant space made for lingering conversations and memorable evenings. What truly sets The Riddler apart is the precision with which each dish is crafted to complement the wine. Begin with the Fluffy, a velvety chicken liver toast elevated with caramelised pistachios and rich balsamic. Then move on to the signature Kamameshi, a comforting claypot rice layered with beef and tongue, smoked daikon, burdock root, cheese foam, and egg yolk—a bold, umami-rich medley designed to meet the depth of a fine vintage. Meat lovers will appreciate the Thai Wagyu Tenderloin or Ribeye, dry-aged for seven days and prepared in a refined Japanese style, served with confit vegetables and a deeply flavoured beef jus. Add live music from Wednesday to Sunday, and The Riddler becomes more than a dinner—it becomes an experience worth savouring. The Riddler Japanese Gastronomic Dining & Wine Bar Address: 1st Floor, Room B1, Woodberry Common Building, 15/2 Ruamrudee Road, Lumphini Subdistrict, Pathumwan District, Bangkok, +6682-547-7005
Vogue Arabia
02-06-2025
- Vogue Arabia
Scented Escapes: Perfumes That Smell Like Summer Escapes
Picture this: you're spritzing a transparent mist that unfurls like a citrus‑kissed Mediterranean coast where terracotta walls absorb the warmth of the day. There's an undeniable magic in how a scent can instantly transport us to distant shores, sun-drenched terraces, or balmy evening strolls. Nothing sets the tone for sunshine adventures quite like a good summer fragrance. Summer fragrances are like linen on the skin — light, breathable, and effortlessly elegant. These scents lean on crisp citrus, salty marine accords, sun-drenched florals, or dewy greens. The best ones are typically citrusy, aquatic, green, or floral-forward, with bright top notes like bergamot, neroli, or grapefruit that uplift rather than overwhelm. Scent is our most primal connection to place and self. The right one lingers like a postcard in the mind. But, heat tends to amplify and evaporate perfume faster, making longevity a concern. With a higher concentration of fragrance oils, Eau de parfums (EDPs) typically linger longer on the skin than eau de toilettes (EDTs). Look for compositions with a solid base—woods, musks, or ambergris—that can anchor the brighter top notes. Citrus-forward scents often fade quickly, but those balanced with creamy or resinous bases (like sandalwood or vetiver) tend to endure through long, sun-drenched days. For best results, spritz on moisturised skin or use a matching body lotion to help the scent linger. Choose perfumes that feel like a breeze: airy, refreshing, and mood-boosting–ones that are a form of escapism. It can be a way to chase the world and travel—even when you're grounded. Discover these destination-inspired fragrances fragrances—perfect for summer escapes and that out-of-office auto-reply. Loewe If you could bottle joy, it might just smell like Paula's Ibiza. Think a juicy, fruity fragrance with notes of coconut cream, cedarwood, and the brand's own accord of Spanish rockrose wildflower. It's the kind of perfume that begs to be worn with oversized sunglasses and no plans. Destination: Ibiza, Spain LOEWE Paula's Ibiza Cosmic, AED 450 Maison Francis Kurkdjian There's a crisp, radiant clarity to Aqua Vitae, like drinking lemonade under the Lisbon sun, and the scent of cypress drifts in from the hills. It opens with lemon, fresh bergamot from Calabria elegantly blend with a trio of spices, grounding the brightness with a soft, sensual finish. It's clean but complex, a fragrance that feels like a secret escape—even when you're just running errands. Destination: Capri or the Amalfi Coast, Italy Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae Forte, AED 985 Tom Ford Clean but sensual, fresh but indulgent. Tom Ford's Neroli Portofino is a tailored escape into the Italian Riviera, all bergamot, neroli, surprising floral notes and amber undertones. One spritz and you're transported to the shimmering turquoise coves of Liguria, hair tousled by sea spray, heels kicked off beside a bottle of Vermentino wine.
Tatler Asia
22-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
Legacy 50: How has the Vietnamese tourism industry changed after 50 years?
At the time, the Vietnamese tourism industry also attracted growing interest from the workforce. Between 1991 and 2009, the number of direct employees in the sector increased almost twentyfold, from 21,000 to 370,000. Not only did the number of workers rise, but the industry also welcomed a greater proportion of highly skilled professionals. Educational institutions and universities introduced formal training programmes dedicated to the tourism services sector. In addition to celebrated natural attractions, a series of events were launched to draw international visitors and drive tourism growth, including the City Tourism Festival and the International Tourism Fair. You may be interested in: Legacy 50: Architects who 'shaped' Saigon's memories These factors contributed significantly to the sector's momentum. By 1990, Vietnam had welcomed more than 250,000 international arrivals—an impressive achievement just over a decade after reunification. At the same time, foreign investors also turned their attention to the country's burgeoning tourism sector. In 2009 alone, foreign direct investment into tourism reached US$8.8 billion, accounting for 41% of the total registered FDI capital, highlighting Vietnam's considerable development potential at the time. 2007–2020: Vietnam's tourism landscape transforms with the rise of luxury resorts During this period, Vietnam's economy maintained a steady growth trajectory, even amidst the turbulence of the global financial crisis. In 2008, tourism revenues approached $4 billion, with 4.2 million tourist arrivals recorded. From 2010 to 2015, the annual growth rate of international visitors stood at 9.48%, up from 8.95% during the 2006–2010 period. Between 2015 and 2019, the tourism industry witnessed remarkable growth, achieving an average annual increase of 22.7% in international arrivals. In 2015, Vietnam welcomed 7.9 million international tourists, rising to 18 million by 2019, a striking figure for the industry at the time. As tourist numbers climbed, the travel and culinary service sectors flourished, offering increasingly diverse experiences to meet the tastes of a wide range of visitors. As travellers' expectations grew more sophisticated, high-end hotels, restaurants, and luxury resorts began to appear across Vietnam, receiving an enthusiastic welcome. One notable example is Amanoi, the prestigious Aman group's property that opened in the picturesque Vinh Hy Bay in 2013. Amanoi Ninh Thuan has since become a leading destination for those seeking tranquillity, and in 2024, it was recognised by Tatler Best Asia as one of the 100 leading hotels on the continent, praised for its seamless blend of natural privacy and exceptional service. In the realm of fine dining, 2018 saw the debut of Quince Saigon, the Vietnam outpost of Thailand's acclaimed Quince Eatery. With its signature Mediterranean flavours, Quince Saigon swiftly captured the attention of gourmets and critics alike, earning a place in Tatler Best Asia 's 2025 list of the 100 Best Restaurants in Asia. 2021–Present: Post-COVID recovery and impressive milestones in tourism After a period of rapid expansion, the Vietnamese tourism industry inevitably slowed with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouragingly, once social distancing measures lifted, the sector showed signs of strong recovery, posting impressive figures. According to the General Statistics Office, Vietnam welcomed 3.7 million international visitors in 2022, with numbers surging to 12.6 million in 2023. Explaining the resurgence, Ms Jackie Ong, Senior Head of Tourism and Hospitality Management at RMIT University Vietnam, notes that following the lifting of restrictions worldwide, Vietnam emerged as a preferred destination on the global tourism map. This growing recognition is further evidenced by the numerous prestigious accolades the country has received from the World Travel Awards. Meanwhile, Mr Nam (Steve) Nguyen, General Manager at Vietnam, observed that Vietnam's tourism industry is making remarkable progress. He also noted that many of the country's high-end resorts, local culinary offerings and iconic attractions are now recognised among the top choices in Asia and beyond. In the wake of COVID-19, travellers have become increasingly mindful of their physical and mental wellbeing. As a result, private, nature-connected spaces and personalised wellness services have become key priorities. Notably, Regent Phu Quoc and Zannier Bai San Ho—two luxury resorts honoured by Tatler Best in the list of Asia's top 100 hotels—both offer guests a wide range of treatments designed to nurture both body and mind. At the same time, as culinary tourism continues to gain momentum, Vietnamese cuisine has further cemented its reputation on the international stage, thanks to the emergence of a new generation of culinary talents. While street food remains a celebrated part of Vietnam's cultural identity, fine dining establishments are reimagining traditional dishes with creative flair. Among them are Gia Restaurant and Akuna Restaurant, two venues recognised by Tatler Best among the 100 leading restaurants in Asia, praised for their refined marriage of contemporary global techniques with the traditional essence of Vietnamese cuisine. The forms of tourism in Vietnam are also evolving, with a stronger emphasis on sustainability. Alongside familiar offerings, trends such as agricultural tourism, ecotourism and spiritual tourism are capturing the interest of travellers. Meanwhile, organisations within the sector are increasingly adopting technology and exploring innovative solutions aimed at fostering more sustainable development, from reducing emissions to minimising resource waste. It is clear that, after 50 years of unification, the Vietnamese economy in general—and the tourism industry in particular—has weathered many challenges and periods of transformation. Through perseverance and ambition, Vietnam continues to develop and affirm its unique place on the global map. Looking ahead, the high-end tourism sector in Vietnam is set to grow even more vibrant, with the upcoming debut of exciting new names such as InterContinental Residences Ha Long Bay (expected to open in 2025), The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh, Four Seasons Resort Nam Hai—Hoi An, Capella Hanoi Hotel, and La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar.
