According to a survey by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), Vietnam topped the list of emerging destinations for international tourist in early 2012. However, Hanoi & Hoi An were making no headway in the Top 10 Holiday Destinations of The Smart Travel Asia 2012 – Best in Travel Poll results.

The obvious advantages of their beautiful ancient architecture, amazing culture, tradition and outstanding hospitality have recently attracted lots of international tourists. They still need to sit back and make a game plan to not only get more tourists but also improve the rate of returning visitors.

From the result, although standing among the best travel brands like Bali, Phuket and Hong Kong means that Hanoi and Hoi An Ancient Town are the most visited destinations not only in Vietnam but also Asia. However, the surprising progress of Angkor of Cambodia and Bangkok of Thailand has rung warning bell to the whole Vietnam Tourism which is marking time whilst Cambodia and Thailand have started implementing their strategy to become strong brands in Asia travel industry.

The result also lead to a fact that other well-known tourist attractions within Vietnam such as Ha Long, Da Nang, Saigon – HCMC, Vung Tau, Phan Thiet – Mui Ne and Can Tho should consider their short-term and long-term development strategy as their names were yet displayed in the list.

“The voters took an average 16.22 air trips over the past year and earned an average US$162,134 in household income. They travelled enough to tell the difference between crass and class. Their verdict? Classical is back in fashion and so are authentic destinations.”

(Source: http://www.smarttravelasia.com/travelpoll.htm)