Traditional giao duyên singing performances returned to the Cửa Vạn area of Hạ Long Bay in March 2026, offering free cultural experiences for visitors. — Photo vov.vn

QUẢNG NINH — With an ambitious goal of welcoming 22 million visitors in 2026, including 5.2 million international arrivals, the northern coastal province of Quảng Ninh is stepping up efforts across the board – from infrastructure upgrades and service improvements to cultural revitalisation – as it prepares for the upcoming summer peak season.

Tourism authorities are targeting total revenue of VNĐ65 trillion (approximately US$2.6 billion), signalling a strong push to not only increase visitor numbers but also enhance overall travel experiences.

At the heart of this strategy is Bãi Cháy, a key tourism hub that serves as a major gateway to Hạ Long Bay. The area is home to nearly 400 accommodation facilities offering more than 18,000 rooms, alongside well-developed beaches and tourism services that meet national standards.

Local authorities have already tightened management measures ahead of the high season, focusing on building a safe, friendly and professional destination image.

Issues such as illegal street vending, price transparency, food safety and environmental hygiene are being closely monitored and regularly inspected.

Vice Chairman of the Bãi Cháy People’s Committee, Nguyễn Thanh Tùng, emphasised that ensuring a transparent and tourist-friendly environment remains a top priority. Efforts are also underway to maintain orderly public spaces and prevent overcharging, helping to reinforce visitors’ confidence.

Beyond management, Quảng Ninh is refreshing its tourism offerings to create more immersive experiences. Notably, the province has revived cultural spaces linked to traditional fishing communities in Hạ Long Bay, including Cửa Vạn fishing village and Vung Viêng fishing village.

Since March 2026, traditional giao duyên (love duet singing) performances have officially returned to Cửa Vạn, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the cultural life of fishermen living on the bay. The performances are free of charge, adding cultural depth to the already iconic seascape.

The province is also preparing a vibrant lineup of large-scale events to attract tourists and encourage longer stays.

Highlights include the annual Hạ Long Carnaval, a hot air balloon festival during the April 30–May 1 holiday, as well as a series of sporting and culinary events expected to energise the summer atmosphere.

Tourism officials and travel representatives welcome passengers aboard the Blue Dream Melody cruise ship from Beihai (Guangxi, China) at Hạ Long International Cruise Port on November 14, 2025. — Photo baoquangninh.vn

According to Chairman of the Quảng Ninh Tourism Association, Nguyễn Thế Huệ, promotional campaigns have been intensified since the beginning of the year, with a strong focus on both domestic and international markets.

“In the first quarter, we prioritised tourism promotion, product showcases and market connectivity to affirm Quảng Ninh as a safe and welcoming destination,” he said.

“As we move into the second quarter, the summer season will bring a wide range of vibrant activities. We also hope for supportive mechanisms from the province to help develop new tourism products.”

The results so far have been promising. In the first quarter of 2026, Quảng Ninh welcomed an estimated 6.2 million visitors, exceeding its target by 5 per cent and surging 110 per cent year-on-year. Tourism revenue reached approximately VNĐ15.7 trillion (about US$615 million).

To sustain this momentum, the province is expanding its promotional channels, participating in international tourism fairs, organising fam trips and press trips, and strengthening partnerships with airlines to tap into new markets.

With coordinated efforts in management, product development and promotion, Quảng Ninh is poised for a breakthrough summer, not only in visitor numbers but also in the quality of its tourism services. — VNS