Besides, about 4,000 Vietnamese people have travelled to other countries through HCMC during the Lunar New Year Festival (Tet), an increase of 10% over last year. The city’s tourism destinations have also attracted more than 75,000 domestic visitors.

In 2011, HCMC aims to receive 3.5 million travellers and earn VND49,000 billion. To reach the target, the city will continue to improve the quality of tourism products also through promotion and international cooperation.

La Quoc Khanh, Deputy Director of HCM Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism said the sector would focus on four main areas, including diversifying and developing products; promoting the quality of cultural events; controlling the illegal activities; and training staff.