Ha Long, Hoi An, Sa Pa honored as top Southeast Asian destinations by Gulf News

Three iconic Vietnamese destinations - Ha Long, Hoi An, and Sa Pa - have been spotlighted in the “Top 15 Southeast Asia tourist destinations - why it's worth a visit” curated by Gulf News, one of the most prestigious publications in the United Arab Emirates.

Gulf News is one of the most widely read English-language newspapers in the UAE, known for its diverse editorial content. Its travel and lifestyle sections are particularly well-regarded, offering trusted recommendations for global readers in search of new and quality experiences.

The recently published list celebrates destinations that stand out for their natural beauty, cultural depth, and unforgettable experiences. Vietnam is proudly represented with three names: Ha Long, Hoi An, and Sa Pa.

Ha Long - A surreal limestone seascape

Ranked third on the list, Ha Long Bay is described by Gulf News as possessing “surreal” beauty and is recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

The cool sea breeze, the majestic limestone islets, and the network of caves offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat, making Ha Long a relaxing retreat for visitors.

To explore the bay, travelers can opt for day or overnight cruises, or join kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours. For a unique panoramic view, the Queen Cable Car by Sun World Ha Long offers sweeping vistas over the bay, Bai Chay Bridge, and the massive Sun Wheel.

For those craving more excitement after a tranquil cruise, Sun World Ha Long theme park delivers a thrilling adventure. In the evening, Vui Phet Night Market and Bai Chay Beach come alive with bustling restaurants and bars tailored to international travelers.

Overnight accommodations range from Oakwood Ha Long to Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh - a Japanese-style hot spring resort ideal for a more serene, wellness-centered stay.

Hoi An - A charming ancient town leading to vibrant Danang

Often likened to a “living museum,” Hoi An enchants with its centuries-old architecture, colorful lanterns, and poetic, slow-paced rhythm.

Ranked eighth in the Gulf News list, the ancient town is a shining example of harmony between tradition and modernity, where cultural values are preserved and celebrated in a uniquely Vietnamese way.

From Hoi An, travelers often continue their journey to Danang - internationally dubbed “the tourism capital of Central Vietnam.” The city’s tourism-entertainment-resort ecosystem delivers a “mountain-to-sea” experience.

For cooler climates and captivating live shows, Sun World Ba Na Hills is the go-to destination. For beach lovers, Premier Village Da Nang and InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort offer idyllic retreats.

Danang has also attracted global media attention thanks to architectural marvels at Sun World Ba Na Hills, such as the Golden Bridge – an emblem of Vietnamese tourism – and the glass dome at Eclipse Plaza, inspired by the traditional Vietnamese conical hat and dubbed a captivating “Vietnamese version” of the Louvre, France.

Sa Pa – A misty mountain town and a cultural journey into the highlands

Gulf News describes Sa Pa as “a unique slice of Southeast Asia,” where nature and culture blend to create authentic and distinct travel experiences. With year-round cool weather, breathtaking terraced rice fields, and vibrant ethnic culture, Sa Pa is ideal for those seeking both nature and deeper cultural encounters in Vietnam’s mountainous north.

Atop Mount Fansipan – the “Roof of Indochina” standing 3,143 meters above sea level – travelers are treated to sweeping views of endless skies and floating white clouds. Beyond the stunning vistas, Sun World Fansipan Legend is home to a spiritual complex featuring the highest-altitude bronze Amitabha Buddha statue in Asia and traditional Vietnamese pagodas, offering a tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Thanks to the Fansipan cable car system, the journey from Muong Hoa Valley to the summit has become effortless, allowing visitors to “touch the clouds.”

For accommodation, Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery Sa Pa is a standout, often described by international writers as “a French palace nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands,” redefining luxury in remote destinations.

Alongside Vietnam’s three representatives, the Gulf News list features Bali (Indonesia), Luang Prabang (Laos), Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei), Penang (Malaysia), Bangkok and Chiang Mai (Thailand), Siem Reap and Angkor Wat (Cambodia), Bagan (Myanmar), Palawan, Bicol, and Cebu (Philippines), and Singapore – destinations that collectively represent the diverse beauty of Southeast Asia in the eyes of international travelers.