New York Times Names Vietnam a Rising Travel Destination for 2026

The New York Times has identified Vietnam as a rising travel destination in Southeast Asia. In its annual list “52 Places to Go in 2026,” published on January 6, the newspaper highlights Vietnam’s growing role on the global tourism map. Notably, the Times chose the Hon Thom Cable Car in Phu Quoc as the visual symbol of Vietnam’s tourism industry, instead of more familiar landmarks.

Vietnam Featured in “52 Places to Go in 2026”

The New York Times releases its “52 Places to Go” list every year. The destinations are organized by the 52 weeks of the year. The list is widely viewed as an indicator of global travel trends.

For 2026, Vietnam appears as an emerging tourism hub in Southeast Asia. The newspaper points to strong growth momentum and increasing international interest. It also highlights major investments in tourism infrastructure scheduled for completion this year. According to the Times, these projects are helping Vietnam prepare for a new wave of travelers.

Hon Thom Cable Car Chosen as a Tourism Symbol

Instead of traditional icons, the New York Times selected the Hon Thom Cable Car to represent Vietnam’s tourism transformation. The three-rope cable car stretches nearly 8 kilometers, making it the longest cable car in the world. It offers panoramic views of the southern waters of Phu Quoc Island.

The experience has gained international attention before. Travel outlets such as CNN Travel and Lonely Planet have also praised the cable car as a standout attraction in Phu Quoc.

Previous Praise from the New York Times

This is not the first time the Hon Thom Cable Car has appeared in the New York Times. In 2023, travel writer Patrick Scott described the cable car station as a refined version of Rome’s Colosseum. He compared Sunset Town to a Mediterranean city inspired by Italian architecture.

The article mentioned clock towers, fountains, and Roman-style ruins. Scott also highlighted the cable car journey itself. He described the clear blue waters below, dotted with fishing boats, as a vivid seascape.

Visa Policies Boost Vietnam’s Appeal

When explaining Vietnam’s inclusion in the 2026 list, the New York Times also noted the country’s visa policies. Citizens from many countries benefit from unilateral visa exemptions.

Phu Quoc stands out in particular. It is the only destination in Vietnam offering 30-day visa-free entry for travelers of all nationalities. This policy makes the island especially attractive to international visitors.

Vietnam’s Growing Presence on the Global Tourism Map

Vietnam’s appearance in the “52 Places to Go in 2026” list reflects growing international recognition. The choice of the Hon Thom Cable Car highlights the country’s investment in modern tourism infrastructure.

With rich natural landscapes, diverse culture, and upgraded travel experiences, Vietnam is gaining visibility worldwide. Phu Quoc, in particular, is emerging as a key destination in Southeast Asia’s tourism future.

images: collected

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