Ha Noi shifts to boost MICE tourism
VGP - Ha Noi will prioritize developing homestays and accommodation establishments of three or more stars rather than those with fewer than ten rooms in a bid to draw business travelers who stay longer and spend more than other visitors, said Director of the Ha Noi Department of Tourism Dang Huong Giang.
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The Director revealed the upcoming plan following opinions raised by local experts and travel agents on the obstacles of this tourism model.
The Capital is home to 3,425 active lodging establishments offering 64,800 rooms. Of the total facilities, the number of one- to five-star hotels was 598, accounting for 17 percent.
In addition, Ha Noi has a system of 23 catering establishments, 31 shopping services, eight entertainment facilities, and one sports area.
Chairman of the Viet Nam Tourism Association Vu The Binh said that Ha Noi owns many favorable conditions for developing MICE tourism thanks to its position as the country's political and cultural center and economic hub of the northern delta. However, Ha Noi still lacks large-scale accommodations and meeting venues to cater to thousands of people. "In addition, the lack of connection between destinations, facilities, and travel agencies is also why MICE tourism has not developed in the capital," he added.
Ha Noi has five-star hotels and resorts, their capacity is small.
In addition, Ha Noi's tourism products are mainly historical and cultural attractions but experience tourism. Consequently, the city doesn't have the same allure to MICE travelers as other coastal provinces and towns.
Director of the Institute for Tourism Development Research Nguyen Anh Tuan suggested that Hanoi focus on investing in infrastructure with many kinds of quality services, increasing the number of accommodation rooms so guests can both organize events and have experience and entertainment services.
MICE tourism development plan
According to the city's plan, Ha Noi will focus on investing in facilities and improving the quality of tourism products and services and human resources to make tourism a cutting-edge economic sector by 2025.
Under the city's tourism development plan by 2030, Ha Noi will prioritize developing homestays and accommodation establishments of three or more stars rather than those with fewer than ten rooms.
Between now and 2030, the city is expected to welcome some 48-49 million tourists, including 13-14 million international arrivals, generating revenue of VND270-300 trillion (US$11.6-12.9 billion).
