The New York Times announces the 52 most worthwhile travel destinations in the world for 2026: Vietnam - a tourism powerhouse.

In early 2026, the New York Times published its list of '52 Places to Go in 2026', in which Vietnam was honored as a rapidly transforming 'tourism powerhouse'.

Báo Tuổi Trẻ•13/01/2026

The New York Times has published its list of the 52 best travel destinations in the world for 2026: Vietnam - a tourism powerhouse - Photo 1.

The Hon Thom cable car – the longest sea-crossing cable car in Vietnam – will allow tourists to enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful seascape of Phu Quoc island. - Photo: Phu Quoc Tourism Development Investment Association

On January 5th, the American newspaper New York Times (NYT) published its annual list of must-visit places. This year, the NYT focused on ecological conservation trends and historical landmarks.

The top spot goes to historical landmarks in the US commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary, followed by Warsaw (Poland) – a symbol of recovery – and Bangkok (Thailand) with its green urban initiatives.

Vietnam makes a striking appearance at number 34 on this list, alongside prominent names such as Warsaw (Poland), Bangkok (Thailand), and the historical region of the "Revolutionary America."

According to the NYT , Vietnam's inclusion is based not only on its inherent natural beauty but also on its leaps forward in its capacity to welcome international visitors, promising a "new era" for tourists when they set foot on this S-shaped land.

Described as a rising "tourism powerhouse" in Southeast Asia, Vietnam continues to fascinate millions of visitors each year thanks to its renowned culinary culture, breathtaking natural landscapes ranging from high mountain ranges to tropical forests, and a rich history dating back to the 7th century BC.

However, American media outlets emphasize that the breakthrough highlight of 2026 will be the significant investment in tourism infrastructure.

Specifically, the first phase of the Long Thanh International Airport construction project is expected to be completed in June 2026. When fully completed, it will be the largest gateway in the country with a capacity to serve up to 100 million passengers.

Next, many of the most luxurious hotels will also open new locations this year, including Park Hyatt in Phu Quoc – an island famous for its white sandy beaches; Four Seasons in Hanoi ; and Nobu in Da Nang.

The NYT also described the Vietnamese government as making it easier for international tourists to visit Vietnam by expanding and extending its visa exemption policy for citizens of several countries.

The New York Times ' list of "52 Places to Go in 2026" :

1. Revolutionary America: This travel theme focuses on locations associated with the American Revolution, such as Philadelphia or Boston. With 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, this area is specifically recommended by the New York Times .

2. Warsaw, Poland

3. Bangkok, Thailand

4. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

5. Bandhavgarh, India

6. Dallas, Texas, USA

7. Oran, Algeria

8. Route 66, USA

9. Saba, Caribbean

10. Poblenou, Barcelona, Spain

11. Nepal's Other Mountains (Nepal)

12. Bayreuth, Germany

13. Canadian Rockies by Train (Canada)