Vietnam has made its mark globally by being ranked 36th among the world's 40 most beautiful countries, according to the prestigious US News & World Report. This ranking, revealed on December 14, 2023, positions Vietnam as a captivating destination appreciated by travelers and experts alike, showcasing its unique charm and rich cultural heritage.
The rankings are based on evaluations drawn from over 17,000 respondents, who assessed the countries on 73 distinct factors distributed across ten primary criteria. From adventure and cultural influence to quality of life and social purpose, each aspect played a significant role in the evaluations. Vietnam achieved a noteworthy total score of 26.6 points, highlighting attributes such as its delectable cuisine and breathtaking natural scenery.
According to US News & World Report, "Vietnam achieved high scores for delicious food (63.7 points), beautiful natural scenery (45.2), and many attractive cultural sites (41.6)." This positive recognition underlines the country's reputation for vibrant street food culture, picturesque landscapes from the terraced rice fields to its stunning coastline, and its rich history reflected through numerous cultural landmarks.
Greece, taking the top honor as the world's most beautiful country for 2024, is famed for its exquisite islands and rich architectural heritage, captivating travelers with places like Santorini, known for its white-washed houses overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. While Greece basks at number one, the World Report recognizes Vietnam’s natural appeal and cultural essence as it aims to attract more global visitors.
The report also noted the impact of Vietnam's economic reforms initiated in 1986, which transformed the nation, significantly bolstering its international competitiveness. "The economic reforms since 1986 have transformed Vietnam, enhancing its international competitiveness," stated the report, emphasizing the balance Vietnam seeks between modernization and cultural preservation.
Beyond its ranking, Vietnam's commitment to sustainable development remains a focal point of its growth strategy. The government has been striving for economic openness and industrial advancements, aligning with international standards of sustainability. This progressive approach not only enhances its appeal as a travel destination but also fosters long-term viability for economic and cultural preservation.
US News & World Report highlighted Vietnam's friendly reputation, scoring 43.8 points on perceived hospitality, which is pivotal for attracting travelers. It is these combinations of welcoming locals, rich historical narratives, and tantalizing gastronomic delights contributing to its charm.
Overall, Vietnam's appearance on the list as one of the most beautiful countries showcases its diverse offerings and the attractiveness it holds for both tourism and cultural engagement. Interestingly, it is not just its ranking at number 36 but the visible recognition of efforts to develop the country sustainably and maintain its rich cultural legacy.
With this recognition, Vietnam stands as not just another travel destination but as a lush garden of historical contexts, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality, waiting for global attention. This ranking is not merely about beauty; it reflects Vietnam’s growth, resilience, and unyielding spirit—a country transformed one decade at a time, appealing to adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and culinary explorers.
Therefore, as the world continues to change, Vietnam eagerly invites travelers to explore its delights, from the heart of Hanoi to the scenic vistas of Ha Long Bay. With its promising ranks among the best and most beautiful, it beckons visitors to discover its alluring landscapes and vibrant culture, solidifying its place on the global stage.
