On January 21, 2025, the ASEAN Tourism Awards celebrated outstanding contributions to the tourism industry during a grand ceremony in Malaysia, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025. This year, 17 Vietnamese tourism businesses were honored, showcasing the country’s commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This report delves into the significance of these awards, highlights the winners, and explores the broader impact on Vietnam’s tourism landscape.
The Significance of the ASEAN Tourism Awards
The ASEAN Tourism Awards, established to recognize and reward the exemplary achievements of travel and tourism service providers, serves as a prestigious platform for promoting high-quality tourism products and services across the region. Organized annually, the awards aim to foster healthy competition among tourism businesses while raising awareness of the importance of sustainable practices in the industry.
Objectives of the Awards
- Recognition of Excellence: The awards honor businesses that demonstrate exceptional service quality, innovative practices, and a commitment to sustainable tourism development.
- Encouraging Quality Improvement: By showcasing best practices, the awards motivate other businesses to enhance their service offerings and operational standards.
- Regional Promotion: The recognition helps promote the ASEAN region as a desirable travel destination, enhancing its visibility on the global tourism stage.
A Look at the Winners
The 2025 ceremony highlighted the diversity and excellence of Vietnamese tourism, with winners spanning various categories, including spa services, community tourism, homestays, and public amenities.
1. ASEAN Spa Awards
The spa industry in Vietnam has flourished, offering unique wellness experiences that attract both domestic and international travelers. The winners in this category included:
- Yoko Onsen Spa, Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh Hot Spring Resort (Quang Ninh Province): This spa combines traditional Japanese onsen practices with the natural beauty of Quang Ninh, providing guests with a serene environment to unwind and rejuvenate.
- An Spa (Da Nang City): An Spa is renowned for its holistic approach to wellness, offering a range of treatments that incorporate local herbs and natural ingredients, drawing on Vietnam’s rich healing traditions.
- Akoya Spa, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An Resort (Quang Nam Province): This luxurious spa emphasizes personalized services and tranquil surroundings, making it a sought-after destination for relaxation.
- Six Senses Con Dao Spa & Wellness Village (Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province): Nestled in a breathtaking location, this spa focuses on sustainability and wellness, providing treatments that harmonize with nature.
- KARA SPA, Caravelle Hotel (Ho Chi Minh City): A blend of modern luxury and traditional Vietnamese healing techniques, KARA SPA offers an exquisite experience in the heart of the bustling city.
2. ASEAN Community Tourism Award – CBT ASEAN
Community-based tourism (CBT) is gaining traction in Vietnam, providing travelers with authentic cultural experiences while supporting local economies. The award winners in this category included:
- Huu Lien Community Tourism Site (Huu Lung District, Lang Son Province): This site offers visitors the chance to engage with local communities, learn about their traditions, and enjoy the stunning natural landscape.
- Hong Van Tourist Area (Thuong Tin District, Hanoi City): Known for its rich cultural heritage, Hong Van provides various activities that showcase local crafts and cuisine.
- Toom Sara Village (Da Nang City): This village emphasizes sustainable practices, allowing tourists to participate in farming and other local activities, thereby fostering a deeper connection with the community.
- Co Tu Nam Giang Community-Based Tourism Cooperative (Quang Nam Province): This cooperative promotes the unique culture of the Co Tu ethnic group while providing tourists with immersive experiences.
- Con Chim Community Tourism Site (Tra Vinh Province): Con Chim is celebrated for its eco-friendly initiatives and opportunities for visitors to experience the local lifestyle and natural beauty.
3. ASEAN Homestay Awards
Homestays offer travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture and hospitality. The winners in this category were:
- Homestay Cluster in Phuong Do Commune (Ha Giang City): This cluster features several homestays, including Mr. Cay, Thavill Retreat, and Mr. Thien, providing guests with authentic experiences in a stunning mountainous setting.
- Homestay Cluster in Yen Thinh Commune (Huu Lung District, Lang Son Province): Featuring La Nha Homestay, Mao Homestay, and others, this cluster allows visitors to experience the rich culture of the region.
- Thai Hai Reserve Area of Ecological Houses-on-Stilts Village (Thai Nguyen Province): This village offers a glimpse into traditional stilt house architecture and the lifestyle of the local ethnic groups.
- Duong Lam Ancient Village (Hanoi City): This historical village showcases Vietnam’s cultural heritage, with several homestays providing authentic experiences for visitors.
- Giong Trom Homestay (Binh Dai, Ben Tre Province): A collection of homestays that highlight the region’s natural beauty and local traditions, offering guests a peaceful retreat.
4. ASEAN Public Toilet Awards
Recognizing the importance of hygiene and accessibility in tourism, the Public Toilet Awards highlight facilities that meet high standards of cleanliness and service. The winners included:
- Public Toilet at Saigon SkyDeck Observatory (Bitexco Financial Tower, Ho Chi Minh City): This facility is not only clean but also offers stunning views, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
- Van Thinh Rest Stop (Ho Chi Minh City): Known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, this rest stop caters to travelers and enhances their journey.
The Impact of the Awards on Vietnamese Tourism
The recognition received at the ASEAN Tourism Awards 2025 underscores the resilience and growth of Vietnam’s tourism sector. Over the past year, Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million international visitors, a remarkable 40% increase compared to 2023. This growth reflects the ongoing recovery of the tourism industry following the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
Key Impacts:
- Boosting National Pride: The awards foster a sense of national pride among Vietnamese tourism businesses, motivating them to maintain high standards and innovate continuously.
- Enhancing Global Reputation: Vietnam’s success at the ASEAN Tourism Awards enhances its reputation as a competitive travel destination, attracting more international visitors.
- Encouraging Sustainable Practices: The emphasis on sustainable tourism practices highlighted by the awards encourages businesses to adopt eco-friendly measures, contributing to the preservation of Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage.
- Economic Growth: The recognition of Vietnamese firms can lead to increased investments in the tourism sector, resulting in job creation and economic development in local communities.
Future Outlook for Vietnamese Tourism
As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, Vietnamese businesses are poised to adapt and thrive. The recognition at the ASEAN Tourism Awards serves as a catalyst for further growth and innovation within the industry.
Key Strategies for Future Growth:
- Innovation and Technology: Embracing technology to enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and promote services more effectively will be crucial for staying competitive.
- Focus on Sustainability: As global travelers become more environmentally conscious, adopting sustainable practices will be vital for attracting eco-minded tourists.
- Cultural Preservation: Maintaining and promoting Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage will not only enhance the tourism experience but also ensure that local traditions are preserved for future generations.
- Infrastructure Development: Continued investment in infrastructure, including transportation and amenities, will be essential in accommodating the growing number of visitors and enhancing their overall experience.
The ASEAN Tourism Awards
The ASEAN Tourism Awards 2025 has highlighted the exceptional talents and dedication of Vietnamese tourism businesses. With 17 firms recognized for their outstanding contributions, Vietnam is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth and excellence in the tourism sector. As the industry embraces innovation, sustainability, and cultural preservation, the future looks bright for Vietnam as a premier travel destination in the ASEAN region and beyond.
This recognition not only honors the achievements of individual enterprises but also reflects the collective efforts of Vietnam’s tourism industry to promote high-quality services and sustainable practices, paving the way for a vibrant and resilient tourism landscape for years to come.