The New York Times announced its annual "52 Places to Go in 2026" list on 6/1. This list, organized by 52 weeks of the year, is often considered a global travel trend indicator. Vietnam was included in the 2026 list, recognized as a growing tourism hub in Southeast Asia.

The Hon Thom cable car featured in the New York Times' introduction to Vietnam. Photo: Screenshot

"An emerging tourism powerhouse in Southeast Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year thanks to its famous culinary culture, diverse natural landscapes from mountains to rainforests, and a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC," the New York Times stated.

The newspaper also highlighted significant investments in tourism infrastructure expected to be completed this year, noting that these projects are preparing Vietnam to welcome a new wave of tourists.

Visitors enjoying the "Symphony of the Sea" show in Phu Quoc special zone, 12/2025. Photo: Thanh Nguyen

The New York Times selected the Hon Thom cable car to illustrate the transformation of Vietnam's tourism infrastructure. This three-wire cable car, nearly 8 km long and the world's longest, offers panoramic views of southern Phu Quoc island. International travel publications like CNN Travel and Lonely Planet previously recognized this as a notable island experience on the island.

This is not the first time the Hon Thom cable car has appeared in the New York Times. In 2023, writer Patrick Scott described the cable car station as a "complete" version of Rome's Colosseum, while Sunset Town evokes a Mediterranean city inspired by Italian architecture, featuring a clock tower, fountains, and Roman-style ruins. Scott also described the cable car journey, allowing visitors to admire "crystal clear" waters dotted with fishing boats, creating a vibrant seascape.

Beyond the cable car, Phu Quoc has developed a comprehensive tourism, entertainment, and resort ecosystem with many well-invested complexes. Notably, Sun Paradise Land in Sunset Town hosts nightly fireworks and large-scale shows like Kiss of the Sea and Symphony of the Sea, alongside landmark structures such as the Kiss Bridge. The island also features a system of resorts operated by international brands.

Visitors exploring the Phu Quoc special zone, 12/2025. Photo: Thanh Nguyen

Explaining Vietnam's inclusion in the 2026 destination list, the New York Times also mentioned the country's visa policy, noting that citizens of many nations receive unilateral visa exemptions. Phu Quoc stands out as the only locality in Vietnam that applies a visa exemption of up to 30 days for visitors of all nationalities.

Vietnam's inclusion in "52 Places to Go in 2026" and the selection of the Hon Thom cable car as a representative image signify growing international recognition of the country's tourism development. Leveraging its natural beauty, rich culture, and investment in experience-focused infrastructure, Vietnam, particularly Phu Quoc, is expanding its presence on the global tourism map.

Tuan Anh (According to New York Times)