Hai Phong tourism makes its mark through ABAC III

Promoting cultural and heritage tourism potential

ABAC III brought together hundreds of international delegates, including ABAC members from 21 APEC member economies, leaders of multinational corporations, financial institutions, research and innovation centers, international organizations, and major domestic associations and corporations.

Beyond formal sessions, the delegates have also participated in experiential activities exploring Hai Phong’s natural wonders, rich cultural traditions, and diverse cuisine. One highlight was a visit to Lan Ha Bay, part of the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago World Natural Heritage site.

Delegates also toured Chu Dau, one of Vietnam’s most famous ancient pottery villages with a centuries-old history. It preserves the essence of traditional ceramic craftsmanship and was once a renowned export along the “Silk Road.”

In particular, UNESCO’s recent recognition of Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac relic and landscape complex as a new trans-provincial World Heritage site also garnered significant interest from international delegates.

In addition to these experiential tours, delegates have also enjoyed a series of cultural and artistic performances. The city Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism arranged a cultural-tourism booth to showcase the unique features of the port city, with folk artists performing traditional craft demonstrations such as toy figurine sculpting, calligraphy, and water puppetry.

Affirming position in MICE and luxury tourism

ABAC III has not only contributed to propagandizing Hai Phong’s natural and cultural richness but also created an opportunity for the city to affirm its status as one of the top destinations for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and luxury tourism.

Many key ABAC III activities are being held at the city Convention and Performance Center in Bac Song Cam urban area. This signature venue, built with over 2.3 trillion VND, features a 1,500-seat grand hall, a 500-seat multifunctional hall equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and meeting rooms outfitted to international standards, ideal for hosting large-scale national and international conferences and performances.

Other events in the meeting agenda are taking place at Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel, one of nearly ten 5-star hotels in the city.

Delegates can enjoy folk performances within an exhibition space that showcase the city’s economic potential and specialties within a modern, upscale accommodation right in the city center.

Exchange activities at world-class golf courses also provide Hai Phong with the chance to promote its golf tourism potential and attract high-end travelers in the near future.

According to Mai Xuan Thang, Co-chairman of the Hai Phong Tourism Association, co-hosting ABAC III and its associated activities has given Hai Phong a valuable opportunity to showcase its tourism products, unique economic models, and promote the image of a modern, high-end, heritage-rich destination to leaders, experts, entrepreneurs, and tourists both domestically and internationally.

NGUYEN DUONG