Tour operators expect Vietnam to grow in popularity after direct flights resume

Tour operators expect a noticeable increase in demand for tours to Vietnam after the launch of Aeroflot’s direct flight to Ho Chi Minh City, reports the press service of the Russian Union of Travel Industry.

“The demand for Vietnam is high: both tourists and travel agents ask for it. Everyone was really looking forward to direct flights. Of course, ideally these should have been flights directly to resorts. But the option with Ho Chi Minh City is also working, since tourists will be able to get to Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne and Phu Quoc on domestic flights,” said Daria Domostroeva, director of public relations of Intourist company.

Fun&Sun company also notes high demand for this destination. According to head of public relations Olga Ivanova, a direct flight to Ho Chi Minh City will be in demand among Russian tourists.

According to Irina Yurina, a leading expert on Southeast Asia of the tour operator Itm Group, Vietnam has not yet restored pre-pandemic demand, because for most Russian tourists the destination is traditionally associated with inexpensive tours on charter flights.

One of the main advantages of Vietnam is low prices for accommodation. The country can compete with Thailand, which has risen noticeably in price this season amid high demand from the Russian and Chinese markets.

As it was reported, from August 15, 2023, citizens of the Russian Federation can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days.

According to the Border Service of the Russian Federation, in 2019, about 600 thousand tourists from Russia visited Vietnam.