Siargao Island, Philippines - Photo: SG
According to a report by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a destination aiming for global reach cannot rely solely on its landscape or climate. The sustainable appeal of a place is determined by three pillars: unique natural and cultural resources, convenient infrastructure, and distinctive tourism products capable of shaping the overall experience.
In an era where international travelers seek more than just "picture-perfect" destinations, a place needs to be able to evoke emotions, so that each return is a different experience.
Just like Jeju (South Korea) gradually escaped the shadow of being a "satellite" destination of Seoul by knowing how to "tell" stories connected with nature, people, and local culture; and like Okinawa (Japan) developed a unique tourism style connecting the sea, music , and cuisine.
Similarly, Siargao (Philippines) has become a global destination for surf enthusiasts thanks to its community-based surf experiences. All these islands have opted for a different approach, not a "showcase" but rather a "personalized experience."
In Vietnam, one island is following that path – quietly and gradually emerging from its "cocoon" to become a name more widely known to the world: Cat Ba.
Discover Cat Ba: The magical leverage of nature's language.
Cat Ba National Park - Photo: SG
Located in the core of the Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cat Ba possesses no shortage of beauty to captivate any photographer.
With over 360 islands of varying sizes, primeval forests stretching to the water's edge, pristine beaches, and the extremely rare Cat Ba langur – all come together like a symphony of nature.
However, in a world of clicks and thousands of destinations promising the same "blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine," nature alone is not enough. So how can we tell the story of that very beauty in a way that makes global travelers listen – and want to step inside the story?
The transformation of Cat Ba begins with its accessibility. Previously, reaching the island was a challenge that deterred many domestic and international tourists. However, the appearance of the three-wire cable car system across the sea, holding the record for "The cable car system with the tallest towers in the world," connecting the mainland to the island has "changed the game."
Cat Ba is embracing the global trend of green tourism - Photo: SG
Travel time is not only shortened to 15 minutes, but it also offers one of the most stunning bay views from above in Vietnam. This isn't just about "infrastructure," but about "the experience right from the start."
On the island, the electrified transportation system within the Green Island Central Bay City, developed by Sun Group, is a systematic step towards green tourism.
According to a report by Booking.com, 76% of international tourists prioritize destinations with sustainable elements. And Cat Ba is meeting that trend, not just with slogans but with actions: electric buses, electric buggies, plastic-free public spaces, and infrastructure planning linked to ecosystem conservation.
The new chapters are told in the language of entertainment and art.
Cat Ba will have more large-scale entertainment and art experiences starting this summer - Photo: SG
For a destination to "speak" to the world, it needs to have "universal" languages: music, light, performances, and cuisine.
In the summer of 2025, Cat Ba will launch "Symphony of the Green Island," a large-scale jetski and fireworks show over the Vietnamese sea with a total investment of nearly 200 billion VND.
Twenty jetski performers are expected to participate in the simultaneous fireworks display, aiming to set a Guinness World Record on the opening night in May.
But what sets this show apart is its storyline, steeped in East Asian culture – the legend of the Cat Ba crane fairy told through the flow of the five elements. A fairy tale told through sound, light, fire, water, and the body movements of world-class extreme sports "superstars." No CGI, no post-production special effects, everything is real – on a magnificent stage of the ocean.
A "tourism lifestyle" is taking shape on Cat Ba Island - Photo: SG
More than just a show, the new experiential ecosystem at Green Island Central Bay City is shaping a "new tourism rhythm" for the island. The morning begins at the brand-new Cat Ba beach, nearly 1km long and unique on the island, featuring towering coconut groves – a rare sight on beaches in Northern Vietnam.
In the evening, visitors can "indulge" at Sun Bavaria Cat Ba Gastro Pub with a craft beer while watching fireworks over the sea, and at the VUI-Fest night market with its music, street food, and truly festive atmosphere.
Cat Ba is learning to do what many successful destinations have done: transform experiences into emotions. Turn trips into stories. Instead of welcoming groups of tourists who arrive and leave quickly, Cat Ba is inviting them to stay longer to experience each rhythm of life throughout the day.
According to tuoitre.vn
Source: https://baohanam.com.vn/du-lich/cat-ba-gu-du-lich-moi-ma-quen-154756.html
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