Vietnam's High-Tech Makeover: The Future of Tourism is Digital

Tourists experience "Finding the lost

imperial palace" tour. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam is transforming its tourism industry, embracing cutting-edge technologies to offer travelers an entirely new way to experience the country's rich history, culture, and landscapes. With virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR) leading the charge, Vietnam is set to become a global leader in tech-driven travel experiences. As we approach 2025, the country’s tourism sector is ready for a digital revolution that promises to thrill and engage visitors like never before.

When Technology Breathes Life into Heritage

Vietnam’s ancient monuments and cultural heritage are getting a digital facelift, with the past merging seamlessly with the future. One of the most impressive projects in this high-tech overhaul is in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The Hue Monuments Conservation Centre’s “Finding the Lost Imperial Palace” project is a prime example of how technology is bringing history to life. By using Nreal Air AR glasses, visitors can virtually step back in time to experience the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty. They can witness live reenactments of court rituals, see the royal guard change at the Ngo Mon Gate, and watch performances in the Duyet Thi Royal Theatre—all in the very places where these events occurred centuries ago. This isn’t just a technological marvel; it’s an emotional and cultural journey, reconnecting visitors with a past they can almost touch.

In Quang Tri, the province is embracing technology in a similar vein. MobiFone, in collaboration with the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, is digitizing the region’s museums, the Chut ethnic cultural space, and even the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Thanks to 360-degree photos, 3D models, VR videos, and digital narration, tourists can virtually explore these stunning sites from anywhere in the world. Phan Thanh Hoai, Director of MobiFone Quang Binh, emphasizes that this digital effort isn’t just about preserving heritage—it’s about making it accessible, especially to the younger generation.

AI and Personalization: The Future of Travel Planning

While VR and AR are reshaping the way travelers experience destinations, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing how trips are planned. Tour design, once an art reserved for seasoned travel experts, is now being handled by AI, which offers personalized travel experiences with an unparalleled level of efficiency. Nguyen Tien Dat, CEO of AZA Travel, explains that AI can take a traveler’s preferences, budget, and schedule, and turn them into a customized itinerary in a matter of seconds.

This streamlined approach to planning allows travelers to experience Vietnam exactly how they want to—whether that’s in the bustling streets of Hanoi, on a scenic cruise in Halong Bay, or exploring the countryside of the Mekong Delta. AI will take care of the logistics, leaving the traveler with only the excitement of the journey ahead.

Virtual Reality as a Teaser for Real Adventures

Virtual restoration of Phung Tien
Palace in Hue city. (Photo: VNA)

Despite the wonders of VR and AR, experts are quick to note that no technology can truly replace the magic of an in-person experience. Virtual reality, while breathtaking, is seen more as a teaser—an introduction to the country’s heritage and landscapes that will ultimately drive travelers to experience these places firsthand. Dang Hong Nguyen Khang, a graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology, stresses that effective VR doesn’t just captivate the eyes; it engages multiple senses and communicates deep cultural narratives. This is especially important in a country like Vietnam, where culture, history, and nature are at the heart of the experience.

The Rise of Smart Tourism in Vietnam

Vietnam’s tech-driven tourism transformation isn’t just about individual projects; it’s part of a larger vision to create a “smart tourism” ecosystem. Digital platforms are now allowing businesses to cut out intermediaries and connect directly with tourists, offering tailor-made travel plans that are accessible with just a few taps on a smartphone. Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Ho An Phong, called this digital shift an “inevitable and objective move” to keep the tourism industry thriving.

However, there are still challenges ahead. As Vietnam’s government develops a master plan for tourism growth through 2030, questions remain about making these technologies accessible to all. According to Master Tran Tuyen from the Centre for Sustainable Tourism Research and Development at Vietnam National University, there is a need for user-friendly VR designs that can attract older generations who may not be as tech-savvy as younger travelers.

Technology as a Tool, Not a Replacement

One of the key concerns raised about the rise of digital tourism is the potential for technology to replace human tour guides. However, experts like Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Thi Van Hanh argue that technology is enhancing the role of tour guides rather than replacing them. With the assistance of XR technologies, guides are becoming “living storytellers,” infusing their personal insights into the virtual experiences, adding a layer of soul that technology alone can’t provide.

Looking Ahead: AR's Breakout Year in 2025

Looking to the future, experts predict that 2025 will be a game-changer for AR, much like the QR code revolutionized the way we interact with the world. With AI facilitating personalized travel plans and tech innovations like lightweight VR gadgets becoming more user-friendly, Vietnam is poised to lead the way in the next era of tourism. The country’s embrace of high-tech solutions is expected to draw more global travelers, who are looking for immersive, customizable, and efficient travel experiences.

Vietnam’s tourism sector is on the brink of something extraordinary. From virtual trips to real-world adventures, the future is digital, and it’s ready to welcome travelers with open arms.

For more information about Mekong tourism and regional updates, visit:Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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