Nikkei Asian Review – the world’s largest financial newspaper specializing in providing political news, commentary, and analysis for Asia, said that Da Nang attracts more tourists than Bali and Phuket in its article about the coastal city of Vietnam. So is it true?
According to this prestigious Japanese newspaper, after more than 40 years since the end of the war in Vietnam, Da Nang has made a remarkable development, especially in tourism. The city has become one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia.
What does Da Nang have?
Unlike Phuket in Thailand or Bali in Indonesia, Da Nang is not an island. The destination is famous as the 3rd metropolis in Vietnam attracting thousands of tourists worldwide every year with the most charming beaches on the planet as well as a system of high-class and enjoyable hotels.
In addition, Da Nang has a favorable geographic location with the airport and the beach near the city center, which is very convenient for moving into the city as well as moving to other nearby attractions in Central Vietnam. You will not have to spend much effort and time visiting Hoi An Ancient Town, Lang Co beach, the complex of Hue ancient world heritage monuments, or having ecstatic experiences through Hai Van Pass.
Da Nang is not only renowned for its convenient location and strong security measures, but it also boasts numerous attractions that have the potential to spark new trends and become symbols of the city’s tourism industry. These hotspots include Ba Na Hill, an extensive modern resort and amusement park complex, the awe-inspiring Marble Mountains, the historical My Son Temples (also known as the Angkor Wat of Vietnam), the stunning Golden Bridge with its giant hand sculptures, the Sun Wheel, and the romantic Bridge of Love. All of these locations are integral to the city’s charm and should not be missed by visitors,
When to travel to Da Nang?
It is no coincidence that Da Nang is considered the most livable city in Vietnam. This Central coastal city of Vietnam is not subject to as many natural disasters throughout the year. You can visit Da Nang all year round except for some months during the rainy season (from October to December) which can cause heavy rain or thunderstorms. The most suitable time to visit this city is in the dry season (from January to September) when the weather is usually good with sunshine and clear blue skies, which is very suitable for outdoor activities.
What about the inhabitants of Da Nang?
What makes international tourists love the most in this sunny and windy land is definitely the people here. When you come to Da Nang, they will give you the first gift of a smile. No matter where you come from, whatever you do, they are all considerate and dedicated to helping, especially when you want to ask for directions, ask for the hotel address, even if there are motorbike taxi and cyclo drivers who will “make a tour” for you.
If you are a visitor for the first time to Da Nang, they will also enthusiastically advise you which restaurant is delicious and has a reasonable price, how to visit this destination by suitable means, how long it will take you to get there… In conclusion, when coming to the wonderful city of Da Nang, do not hesitate to ask, you will be welcomed with the utmost enthusiasm of the people here.
What about Da Nang cuisine?
Needless to say much about how Westerners love Vietnamese food. Each region from North to South of Vietnam has different and unique specialties. Hanoi has Pho and, Bun Cha. Saigon is famous for “Banh Trang Tron” – green mango salad and rice paper, or “Com Tam” – broken rice. And in the central region, it is impossible not to mention Da Nang cuisine.
Da Nang is really a miniature culinary paradise. Here, you can enjoy from the smallest dishes such as Banh Beo, Banh Nam costing a few thousand VND/piece to delicious grilled pork vermicelli, Quang Noodles, Banh Xeo for only 15,000 – 50,000 VND (about 0,6 – 2 USD); or delicious meatball-filled Banh Mi – the best street food in Vietnam is sold at the bread carts along the streets.
What can the exact number say about Da Nang?
Along with the development of the country, Da Nang also made a huge mark. According to the Da Nang Department of Tourism, the number of hotel rooms in Da Nang has tripled in the past 5 years. At the same time, the number of international tourists to Da Nang increased by about 2.5 times.
In the ranking of tourist destinations in 2018 of the world’s largest hotel booking website Airbnb (USA), Da Nang ranked 5th in the world and 1st in Southeast Asia. Also last year, Da Nang attracted about 7.6 million tourists. This number is still very modest compared to Phuket and Bali (only 1/3 to 1/2) but with the current growth momentum, Da Nang can completely surpass these rivals in the near future.
Conclusion
If Hue or Hoi An reminds people of the image of the ancient capital land and old town, Da Nang makes people feel and want to return because of its civilization, modernity, and “makeover” clearly after each visit. Although it is one of the biggest cities in Vietnam, this city is also different from Hanoi and Saigon. It is more peaceful, fresher, and does not face the problem of traffic congestion. Therefore, Da Nang is always one of the destinations not to be missed when having your expedition to Vietnam.
