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Asia Travel Pulse

AI, Mobile-First Platforms, and Digital Payments Transform Gen Z Travel in India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, Driving Spontaneous Bookings and Personalized Experiences: Here’s More About The Emerging Trend Of Asian Countries

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August 9, 2025 |

The tourism industry across Asia is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), mobile-first platforms, and digital payments. These technological advancements are especially noticeable in the travel behavior of younger generations, particularly Gen Z. The impact of AI and digital tools is no longer confined to just a few countries but is sweeping through major Asian markets such as India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore.

This shift is prompting travel companies to rethink their approaches, pushing for speed, flexibility, and personalized experiences that meet the expectations of today’s tech-savvy travelers. As a result, these countries are seeing an increase in spontaneous travel bookings, flexible payment methods, and highly curated travel suggestions—all made possible by the intersection of technology and consumer demand.

The Dominance of Gen Z in Asian Travel Markets

Gen Z travelers, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, are reshaping the way travel is consumed across Asia. This generation, highly familiar with mobile devices and digital platforms, expects more than just traditional travel experiences. They demand instant bookings, personalized suggestions, and seamless mobile experiences—especially as their travel habits tend to be more spontaneous than those of older generations.

In countries like India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, Gen Z’s influence is becoming more pronounced. For instance, in India, nearly 40% of Gen Z travelers make bookings just 3-5 days before departure. This trend is mirrored in other parts of Asia, where younger travelers are increasingly turning to AI-powered tools to help plan their trips, choose activities, and book accommodations on the go.

How AI and Digital Payments are Shaping the Travel Experience

AI’s impact on travel in Asia is multifaceted. From offering personalized itineraries to recommending activities based on past trips, AI tools are transforming how travelers explore destinations. Whether it’s recommending destinations, activities, or tailored experiences, AI is providing travelers with solutions that feel intuitively designed for their preferences.

In addition to AI, digital payment systems, particularly mobile wallets, UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and EMIs (Equated Monthly Installments), are streamlining the booking process. These systems enable travelers to make payments instantly or pay in installments, giving them more freedom to make spontaneous travel decisions without the burden of upfront costs.

For example, UPI is widely used in India, while mobile wallets like Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate in China. Similarly, in Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, digital payment systems are increasingly being integrated into travel platforms, making it easier for travelers to book flights, accommodations, and activities without the hassle of currency exchange or complex payment methods.

These innovations have become crucial for appealing to younger travelers who expect efficiency, flexibility, and quick solutions. The availability of multiple payment options ensures that booking a trip—whether it’s a last-minute getaway or a long-planned vacation—can be done with ease, boosting the overall travel experience.

The Shift Toward Personalized and Curated Travel

As AI continues to evolve, the focus has shifted from generic, one-size-fits-all travel packages to highly personalized, curated travel experiences. In countries like Japan and Singapore, AI is used to provide activity suggestions that align with a traveler’s specific interests, such as culinary experiences, cultural tours, or adventure sports.

The use of AI in personalized itineraries is gaining ground in Thailand, where platforms suggest tailor-made holiday packages based on real-time trends, weather conditions, and even user behavior. Similarly, in China, travelers can use AI tools to not only book flights but also select unique experiences, such as off-the-beaten-path destinations or local experiences that align with their interests.

For Gen Z travelers in Asia, personalization is key. They are looking for experiences that are unique, dynamic, and responsive to their needs. With the help of AI, travel companies in India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore can now provide suggestions that feel highly relevant, whether it’s a hidden gem of a hotel or an exciting activity that matches their adventure-filled vacation style.

The Impact of AI and Digital Tools on Travel Companies

Travel companies across Asia are increasingly turning to AI and mobile-first platforms to stay ahead of the competition. In countries like India and China, the shift toward AI-driven platforms is helping travel agencies offer more personalized recommendations, manage last-minute bookings, and streamline customer service.

For instance, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming ubiquitous, handling everything from providing flight updates to assisting with booking changes. These systems can quickly adapt to last-minute requests, an important feature for spontaneous travelers, and are helping companies enhance their customer service operations.

As mobile-first platforms continue to dominate, companies are moving away from traditional desktop-based systems. Instead, they are focusing on creating seamless mobile experiences that allow travelers to book, plan, and manage their trips directly from their smartphones. This mobile-first approach has been especially successful in countries like Japan and Thailand, where mobile app usage is widespread, and consumers are comfortable making bookings and payments on the go.

Spontaneous Travel: The Role of Digital Payments

One of the most significant outcomes of the digital payment revolution in Asia is the rise of spontaneous travel. In the past, booking a last-minute trip often involved challenges such as securing accommodations, finding affordable transportation, or dealing with limited payment options.

With the integration of digital payment systems like UPI in India, WeChat Pay and Alipay in China, and mobile wallets in Thailand and Singapore, these challenges are being alleviated. Travelers can now make instant payments without worrying about cash or complex transaction methods, allowing them to act quickly and book travel on a whim.

This ability to pay immediately or over time via EMI options has made it easier for travelers, especially younger generations, to make spontaneous travel decisions. For example, in India, UPI has become the preferred payment method for many travelers, particularly Gen Z, because of its simplicity and ease of use. Similarly, in China and Japan, mobile wallet payments are now deeply embedded in the travel ecosystem, making spontaneous booking a seamless experience.

The flexibility offered by these digital payments has not only fueled spontaneous travel but also contributed to the overall growth of the travel industry in Asia.

The Future of Travel in Asia: AI and Technology Integration

As AI continues to improve and digital payment systems become even more advanced, the future of travel in Asia looks promising. In countries like India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore, technology will continue to be a driving force behind the tourism industry’s growth.

We are likely to see more AI-driven platforms offering hyper-personalized travel experiences, where every aspect of a trip—from accommodations to activities—is tailored to the traveler’s preferences. The role of mobile apps will also continue to grow, with new features such as virtual assistants, real-time recommendations, and itinerary planning becoming commonplace.

Furthermore, digital payments will continue to evolve, offering even more convenience and flexibility for travelers. As payment systems become more integrated with AI, travelers will have an increasingly seamless experience, from booking flights to paying for meals at local restaurants.

Conclusion: The Digital Revolution in Asian Tourism

The travel industry across Asia is undergoing a profound transformation, largely driven by AI, mobile-first platforms, and digital payments. This revolution is particularly evident among younger travelers, especially Gen Z, who are reshaping the way travel is booked and experienced.

The combination of AI and digital payment systems has made travel more spontaneous, personalized, and accessible, allowing travelers in India, China, Japan, Thailand, and Singapore to plan their trips with unprecedented ease and flexibility. For travel companies, adapting to these changes is no longer optional but essential to staying competitive in an increasingly tech-driven world.

As technology continues to evolve, the future of travel in Asia looks brighter than ever, with innovations that promise to enhance the travel experience for everyone.



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Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, And More Demonstrate Strong Growth In Repeat Travel As Agoda Reveals The Favourite Cities That Keep Visitors Coming Back

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August 9, 2025 |

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and several other countries are experiencing remarkable growth in repeat travel, driven by travelers’ deepening appreciation for their unique cultures, vibrant cities, and diverse experiences. According to Agoda’s latest data, these destinations are home to favorite cities that consistently attract visitors back, highlighting their ability to offer unforgettable stays, rich local attractions, and exceptional hospitality that inspire repeat visits and foster strong traveler loyalty.

Agoda, the prominent digital travel platform, has revealed its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, shining a spotlight on Asian cities that travellers can’t seem to resist coming back to. This ranking draws on booking data collected during the first half of the year, identifying the top destinations with the highest numbers of repeat visitors. For the second year running, Bangkok retains the number one position, followed closely by Tokyo, Seoul, Bali, and Osaka. Each of these cities offers unique attractions and experiences that encourage travellers to return again and again.

Top 10 Most Revisited Destinations

  1. Bangkok, Thailand
  2. Tokyo, Japan
  3. Seoul, South Korea
  4. Bali, Indonesia
  5. Osaka, Japan
  6. Taipei, Taiwan
  7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  8. Da Nang, Vietnam
  9. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
  10. Hong Kong

Source: Agoda Repeat Visitor Ranking

Repeat visits act as a clear indicator of success for tourism boards and destination marketers. When travellers return to the same place multiple times, it reflects well on the destination’s appeal and the effectiveness of promotional campaigns. Many visitors do not just revisit their favourite cities; they also use those return trips to explore less familiar areas within the same country or region.

Agoda’s data shows that a considerable portion of travellers book trips to the same city or country multiple times, underscoring the emotional and experiential bonds that draw people back. The cities topping this list consistently offer vibrant cultures, excellent food, and a wealth of attractions, making them irresistible for those seeking both familiar comforts and new discoveries.

Bangkok Remains Unrivalled

Bangkok has reclaimed the number one position, solidifying its reputation as one of Asia’s most irresistible travel hotspots. Tourists regularly highlight the city’s vibrant street scenes, diverse and delicious food offerings, and abundant cultural treasures. To keep this momentum going, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has stepped up its initiatives by rolling out targeted promotions and collaborating closely with industry stakeholders to elevate the overall visitor experience.

Other regions in Thailand are also drawing in returning visitors. Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai have all seen substantial repeat visitor numbers, highlighting the country’s broad appeal beyond just its capital. To support this growth, Thailand has invested in upgrading its transportation infrastructure. These improvements include expanding domestic airports, enhancing intercity rail networks, and developing urban mass transit systems to make travel more convenient and comfortable for visitors.

Why Do Travellers Keep Coming Back?

Agoda’s surveys help explain why people repeatedly visit these top destinations. The key factors include:

  • Ease of Travel: Destinations that offer straightforward access, good connectivity, and efficient transport systems make returning trips hassle-free.
    Culinary Experiences: The variety and richness of local food greatly influence travellers’ choices. Destinations known for their flavorful and diverse cuisine encourage visitors to come back repeatedly to explore new tastes and enjoy familiar favourites.
  • Convenient Location: Proximity to other destinations or natural attractions often encourages repeat visits as travellers use one city as a base to explore nearby areas.
  • Safety and Cleanliness: Visitors feel more comfortable revisiting places where they perceive high standards of safety and cleanliness.
  • Positive Previous Experiences: Most importantly, travellers return to places where they have already had enjoyable and memorable experiences.

These motivations create strong emotional connections between travellers and destinations, making repeat visits a natural choice.

Traveller Demographics and Trip Purposes

Agoda’s data also reveals interesting patterns related to traveller demographics and the reasons behind their repeat visits. For example, many travellers from countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and India show a strong inclination to revisit their favourite cities. Their reasons vary widely, from seeking adventure and exploring local food scenes to reconnecting with family and friends.

This diversity in purpose highlights that repeat visitors are not a monolithic group. Some return for leisure and relaxation, others for cultural immersion or business, and many combine several motivations. Repeat travel often strengthens these bonds, encouraging travellers to explore new parts of a destination they had not previously experienced.

Loyalty Programs and Traveller Benefits

Alongside these travel trends, Agoda supports frequent travellers with its loyalty programmes. The Agoda VIP programme offers tiered membership levels — Member, VIP Silver, VIP Gold, and VIP Platinum — which travellers can unlock based on the number of bookings they make. As travellers move up the tiers, they gain access to exclusive discounts, special offers, and personalized services.

Additionally, Agoda provides a PointsMAX feature, allowing users to earn airline miles or other loyalty points from partner programmes when they book accommodation through the platform. This integration adds extra value for repeat visitors and encourages loyalty to Agoda’s services, complementing the overall traveller experience.

What This Means for Asian Tourism

The Repeat Visitor Ranking reflects a vibrant and growing interest in Asia’s travel destinations. Cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, and Bali continue to draw visitors with a mix of tradition, modernity, and accessible experiences. For tourism authorities, high repeat visitation rates confirm that their promotional strategies resonate well with travellers, and their investments in infrastructure and services pay off.

Furthermore, these cities act as gateways to their respective regions, inspiring visitors to explore surrounding areas on subsequent trips. With tourism expected to grow steadily in the coming years, destinations that nurture repeat visitors stand to benefit from sustained economic impact and cultural exchange.

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and more are seeing strong repeat travel growth as Agoda reveals that their favorite cities offer unique cultural experiences, excellent hospitality, and vibrant attractions that keep visitors coming back time and again.

Agoda’s Repeat Visitor Ranking offers valuable insights into which Asian cities travellers love enough to revisit repeatedly. The data highlights not only popular destinations but also the qualities that inspire loyalty — from culinary delights and ease of travel to safety and memorable experiences. As tourism boards continue to refine their strategies, repeat visitation will remain a key metric of success, helping cities maintain their place on the traveller’s map for years to come.



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AirAsia ‘Discover ASEAN’ Microsite: A New Era of Travel for Southeast Asia Tourism

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August 9, 2025 |

AirAsia just launched the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite to give Southeast Asia’s tourism sector a big boost. This online hub is perfect for both international visitors and locals who want a simple way to find and book everything Trip-related. The microsite highlights the region’s rich cultural, historical, and natural attractions, letting travelers quickly plan their perfect getaway with AirAsia.

The initiative fits seamlessly into Southeast Asia’s plan to bounce back from the pandemic and stay on the global map. The microsite isn’t just for booking flights; it’s a one-stop shop for experiences, special offers, and must-see spots across every ASEAN country. By gathering all this info in one place, AirAsia hopes to create a stronger bond between visitors and the one-of-a-kind treasures of Southeast Asia.

The Concept of the ‘Discover ASEAN’ Microsite

AirAsia’s ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite offers a fresh and engaging way for travelers to explore the diverse beauty of Southeast Asia. With detailed destination guides, exclusive promotions, and a plethora of travel tips, the site is a treasure trove of information for those interested in traveling within the ASEAN region.

Facilitating Seamless Travel Planning with AirAsia

A key feature of the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is its seamless integration with AirAsia’s extensive flight network. Travelers can easily book flights directly from the platform, ensuring a streamlined process from trip planning to departure.

Additionally, the microsite features local experiences, excursions, and activities that travelers can add to their itineraries.

This feature allows tourists to not only book flights but also enhance their journeys with locally inspired activities, reinforcing the region’s appeal to both seasoned travelers and newcomers looking for authentic experiences.

Promoting Regional Connectivity and Tourism Recovery

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is launching at a critical time for Southeast Asia’s tourism sector. With borders reopening and international tourism gradually picking up, AirAsia’s initiative comes as a timely solution to help rebuild regional travel and support local economies.

The site’s focus on regional connectivity and promoting travel within ASEAN countries is particularly relevant in this context. By encouraging residents of Southeast Asian nations to explore their neighbors, AirAsia aims to foster a sense of regional pride while simultaneously boosting local tourism economies. This initiative contributes to the broader goal of promoting intra-regional tourism, which will be a critical component of Southeast Asia’s post-pandemic recovery.

Sustainable Tourism Practices and Local Engagement

Sustainability is a central theme in the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite’s design. AirAsia is committed to promoting responsible tourism within the ASEAN region by supporting eco-friendly practices and showcasing destinations that prioritize sustainability. Through the platform, travelers are encouraged to make environmentally conscious decisions, such as opting for eco-tourism experiences, using local transportation options, and staying at sustainable accommodations.

In addition to promoting environmental sustainability, the microsite highlights ways in which travelers can contribute to local communities. Whether through cultural exchange programs, local artisan products, or supporting small businesses, the platform aims to connect travelers with authentic experiences that help foster economic growth in the region’s less-visited areas.

By integrating sustainable travel options and ethical tourism practices, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite hopes to create a more responsible travel ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Southeast Asia.

New Opportunities for ASEAN Tourism

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite represents a bold move by AirAsia to not only attract tourists to the ASEAN region but to also increase regional collaboration among ASEAN member countries. Tourism is a key economic driver for Southeast Asia, and by leveraging AirAsia’s extensive network, the microsite serves as a tool for tourism boards, local businesses, and the hospitality sector to gain greater visibility in international markets.

By promoting secondary cities and emerging destinations, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ initiative helps decongest popular tourist spots, encouraging visitors to explore new places. This effort aligns with the broader goal of sustainable tourism, where the benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed across the region, and local communities are given more opportunities to engage with the global travel market.

What This Means for Southeast Asia Tourism Landscape

Looking forward, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite could significantly reshape Southeast Asia’s tourism landscape. The platform provides an easy-to-use, one-stop solution for travelers, offering all the information and booking tools needed to make travel decisions. It also acts as a powerful marketing tool for ASEAN countries, giving them the ability to showcase their unique attractions to a global audience.

For travelers, the ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite enhances their understanding of the region’s diversity and helps them find destinations that fit their travel interests, whether they’re looking for cultural experiences, adventure, or relaxation. With this initiative, AirAsia not only promotes tourism in Southeast Asia but also positions itself as a leader in regional travel, making it easier for everyone to discover the wonders of the ASEAN region.

The Future of Southeast Asia Tourism

The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite isn’t just another travel website; it’s a smart move to boost tourism across Southeast Asia. With easy-to-navigate travel guides, eco-friendly travel choices, and quick booking tools, AirAsia is paving a smooth and modern path for travelers. As the region heals from the pandemic, tools like the microsite will play a key role in attracting both local and global visitors, keeping Southeast Asia in the spotlight as a must-visit travel hotspot.

For visitors, the road ahead for Southeast Asia tourism sparkles with opportunities. New routes, fresh activities, and deep cultural stories are ready to be embraced. The ‘Discover ASEAN’ microsite is only the opening chapter of a thrilling story about the people and places that make Southeast Asia so special.



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Hanoi Emerges as a Premier Golf Tourism Destination in Vietnam

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August 9, 2025 |

Hanoi, Vietnam’s lively capital, has quickly become a must-visit spot for golf tourists, now generating 8 to 10 per cent of the country’s total tourism income. Excellent golf courses and a fast-growing travel market are drawing visitors from around the globe. The city’s recent wins as the “World’s Best Golf City Destination” for 2023 and 2024, awarded by the World Golf Awards, officially rank it as one of the leading golf cities in the world.

The Rise of Golf Tourism in Hanoi

Hanoi’s golf tourism sector has experienced exponential growth over the past few years. As a result, the city has gained international recognition for its expansive golf facilities and high-end tourism offerings. The capital is home to numerous golf courses that meet the exacting standards of affluent visitors, particularly from international markets, making it a key player in Vietnam’s luxury tourism industry.

Prominent golf courses in Hanoi, such as Kings Island Golf (also known as Dong Mo Golf Course), are designed to cater to this elite demographic. Covering 350 hectares of land and 1,500 hectares of water surface, Kings Island Golf is Hanoi’s first and largest golf course, featuring 55 holes spread across three sub-courses. The facility is a major draw, attracting around 15,000 international visitors each year. It offers a comprehensive range of services beyond the green, including accommodations, wellness centres, and banquet services, making it a one-stop destination for golf lovers and leisure travellers alike.

In addition to Kings Island Golf, Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club in Tran Phu commune stands out with its 36-hole course. Sky Lake provides not just golfing facilities but also conference rooms and golf retail outlets, making it an ideal venue for both leisure and business travellers. These golf clubs are not only sports hubs but are also known for hosting major tournaments, which in turn contribute significantly to Hanoi’s tourism industry by attracting international and domestic tourists alike.

Scenic Golf Venues and Luxurious Accommodations

Hanoi’s diverse and scenic golf offerings include renowned venues such as Van Tri Golf Club, BRG Legend Hill Golf Resort, Hanoi Golf Club, and Long Bien Golf Course. Each of these locations boasts stunning landscapes that add to the overall experience, and they all meet international standards in terms of service and course quality.

The growth of golf tourism in Hanoi has been complemented by a parallel boom in the city’s accommodation sector. With a broad array of five-star hotels and serviced apartments, the city is well-equipped to cater to the needs of high-end travellers. The presence of international hotel chains such as JW Marriott, Sheraton, and Metropole ensures that visitors enjoy world-class services alongside their golfing experience. These luxurious accommodations are integral to Hanoi’s overall appeal, positioning the city as a hub for both golf and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.

This synergy between elite golf courses and luxury accommodations allows Hanoi to cater to a wide range of affluent tourists. Golf enthusiasts can experience top-tier golfing facilities during the day and unwind at upscale hotels in the evening. In turn, the city’s dynamic MICE tourism market, supported by its world-class venues and hotels, continues to attract business travellers seeking both leisure and corporate activities.

Challenges and Opportunities for Growth

Despite its success, Hanoi’s golf tourism faces several challenges that hinder its full potential. While the city has seen impressive growth in its golf tourism sector, it has yet to reach the scale of regional competitors such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, which regularly host large-scale international tournaments. Hanoi’s golf courses have also primarily catered to individual tourists, with fewer group tours—a trend that limits the economic benefits of these premium facilities.

The city’s golf infrastructure, though robust, is underutilised due to a lack of coordinated efforts among various stakeholders in the tourism and golf industries. To address this gap, there is a pressing need for greater collaboration between golf courses, travel agencies, and other businesses within the tourism sector. This would enable the development of a broader range of customised and appealing golf tourism packages that can attract diverse international markets.

Strategies for Enhancing Golf Tourism

Key industry figures have emphasised the importance of diversifying the offerings within Hanoi’s golf tourism sector. Combining golf with cultural tourism and MICE experiences is seen as an effective strategy to broaden the appeal of the city. By offering a mix of leisure and cultural activities alongside high-quality golfing experiences, Hanoi can position itself as a premier destination for both golfers and travellers seeking a more immersive travel experience.

Integrating more entertainment options, such as live performances and interactive cultural experiences, could also enhance the appeal of Hanoi’s golf tourism. The development of customised golf tourism products tailored to the preferences of different markets could make Hanoi more attractive to a broader range of visitors.

Furthermore, streamlining the booking process for golf tour groups could improve the city’s competitiveness in attracting high-end groups. As it stands, many golf courses prioritise individual bookings, which complicates arrangements for group tours. Greater collaboration across the golf tourism value chain would help reduce costs and improve the overall experience for group travellers.

The Road Ahead for Hanoi’s Golf Tourism

The Hanoi Department of Tourism recognises golf tourism as a key focus for the city’s future development. Efforts are ongoing to enhance the city’s offerings in golf tourism while also expanding experiential travel products that can encourage longer stays. By further strengthening its golf tourism infrastructure and diversifying its tourism products, Hanoi is poised to continue attracting international visitors looking for a unique blend of luxury, sport, and culture.

With its exceptional golf courses, luxury accommodations, and thriving MICE sector, Hanoi is well on its way to becoming one of the leading golf tourism destinations in the region. The city’s growing prominence in the global golf tourism market is a testament to its commitment to high-quality offerings and its capacity to provide world-class experiences to travellers from all corners of the globe.

Conclusion

Hanoi’s golf tourism sector keeps gaining momentum, firmly establishing the city as a magnet for golfers and luxury travellers alike. Although it grapples with logistics and service-layer gaps, the city is steadily refining its appeal and is on track to secure a major role in the Southeast Asian golf tourism scene. Ongoing upgrades to transport, alongside a broader push to diversify the tourism portfolio, suggest that Hanoi is on a sustainable trajectory to shine as a leading golf stop in the region.

Image Credit: Vietnam Tourism Official Website



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