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Welcoming visitors from afar to Da Nang

By DA NANG Today / DA NANG Today
January 16, 2025, 11:37 [GMT+7]

The figure of 3,000 tourists arriving in Da Nang by sea and air on the first day of the new year signals positive prospects for the city's tourism industry in 2025.

International tourists aboard the Noordam cruise ship eagerly explored the city of Da Nang on the first day of the new year. Photo: T.Y.
International tourists aboard the Noordam cruise ship eagerly explored the city of Da Nang on the first day of the new year. Photo: T.Y.

Creating an impression of a "Da Nang Smile"

On the chilly days of the new year, nearly 2,000 tourists from Europe and America disembarked at Tien Sa Port, and their eager expressions reflect the excitement of their first visit to Da Nang. The Noordam cruise ship, measuring nearly 290 meters in length, stood majestically like a floating hotel on the clear blue sea, marking a special first visit of the year for this luxury cruise line.

At the port, the atmosphere was more vibrant than ever. Dragon and lion dances, along with traditional music, served as a warm welcome from Da Nang to the tourists. As soon as she stepped off the Noordam ship, Mrs. Barbara (an American national) expressed her delight in trying on a conical hat and taking photos with young women dressed in elegant ao dai. It is known that Mrs. Barbara's visit to Da Nang is part of her Asian cruise itinerary aboard the Noordam, which includes several countries such as Singapore, Thailand, and Cambodia. During her stay in Da Nang, she plans to visit several famous attractions, including the Cham Sculpture Museum, the stunning Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagoda, My Khe Beach, and experience shopping and dining at Con Market and Han Market.

The local tourism leaders personally welcomed the group at the port and presented them with small gifts rich in cultural significance, which deeply moved many tourists. Among the crowd arriving in Da Nang to celebrate the new year was Mr. John Wilson, a British tourist, who joyfully remarked: “This warm welcome makes me feel that Da Nang is not just a travel destination, but also a place where people express sincerity and hospitality. This is what will leave a lasting impression of your city on me, and I look forward to returning one day soon.”

For many years, the welcoming of guest groups during special occasions such as holidays and festivals has become a familiar diplomatic ritual for Da Nang's tourism industry. Alongside this, the city has made a positive impression by establishing a professional and friendly tourism workforce through the "4 Yes" (hello, thank you, may I, I’m sorry) and "4 Always" (always smiling, always gentle, always understanding, and always helpful) movements. Moreover, the city recently introduced a set of criteria about culture for tourism called "Da Nang Smile".

According to Mrs. Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism, the goal of this campaign is to continue building the image of Da Nang as a civilized and friendly city in the eyes of both domestic and international tourists. Through this initiative, the set of criteria aims to guide the behavior, attitudes, and civilized conduct of local agencies, organizations, residents, and tourists alike. Mrs. Hoai An emphasized that in the context of increasing competition among tourist destinations across provinces, cities, and countries, the human factor and service culture are key to differentiating Da Nang. Tourists may forget the beautiful sights they visited, but they will always remember the smiles, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences that the city offers.

A tour guide or hotel staff member who knows how to share the stories of Da Nang's history and its people will create a much stronger impression than simply providing basic information. Authentic, emotionally rich narratives about Da Nang—ranging from the memories of its residents and the flavors of traditional cuisine to the vibrant energy of a young city—when woven together skillfully, will contribute to a professional tourism workforce that embodies the local character. This is also one of the core values that will help Da Nang expand its presence on the global tourism map.

Building core tourism values

The relentless efforts of Da Nang's tourism sector have gradually extended to the service staff—those who are likened to "the city's tourism ambassadors." Mr. Tran Van Hoa, a server at a restaurant in the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula resort, shared that he has worked for over 10 years and has witnessed the daily evolution of the tourism industry. “We are always trained not only in service skills but also in how to convey the cultural stories and the essence of Da Nang to our guests. For example, when visitors ask about local dishes, I often share the stories behind them, such as the origins of Quang noodles or banh xeo (Vietnamese pan cake), so they can better understand and appreciate this land,” he expressed.

Working in the tourism industry, what makes Mr. Hoa proud is the open and friendly attitude of everyone, from industry leaders to taxi drivers, market vendors, and service staff in resorts. He happily stated, “During the early days of this year, the number of international guests at our restaurant has significantly increased, especially groups from Europe. Whenever I see guests smiling with satisfaction after their meal or praising the beauty of Da Nang, I feel that my work is truly meaningful.”

Recognizing communication and behavioral culture as crucial elements in creating a friendly and reputable destination, since 2020, IBH Academy (part of Bac My An Tourism Company) has focused on developing training programs aimed at enhancing human resources in line with the needs of Da Nang's tourism industry. These programs include guidelines for professional conduct, service styles, reception etiquette, and dining behavior. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Tam, Executive Director of IBH Academy, stated that the training content is designed to equip participants with both specialized knowledge and the professional attitudes necessary for service. “In tourism, alongside the scenery and facilities, people are the key factor. We hope that every hotel and restaurant staff member will act as cultural ambassadors, helping to promote a beautiful image of Da Nang,” Mrs. Tam shared.

This perspective is also reflected in the city’s investment in developing specialized training programs focused on soft skills and cultural communication for the tourism workforce. Over 21 training sessions aimed at updating knowledge for tour guides and tourism professionals are scheduled for 2024, demonstrating the effort to enhance Da Nang's standing on the international tourism map. Mr. Cao Tri Dung, Chairman of Da Nang Tourism Association, shared that in 2025, the goal of the industry is to position Da Nang as a standout destination where visitors always feel welcomed as if returning home. “We understand that to compete with other destinations in the region, Da Nang needs to create distinctive values. And these values lie not only in beautiful landscapes and modern facilities but, more importantly, in the people and how we treat and satisfy each guest,” Mr. Dung emphasized.

To ensure that these efforts yield sustainable results, Da Nang needs a comprehensive strategy that links human resource training with long-term development policies. This involves collaboration among travel businesses, accommodation facilities, and local authorities. The tourism sector should not only focus on training basic service skills but also emphasize helping the workforce gain a deeper understanding of the local cultural identity and the values that the city aims to convey to visitors.

A tour guide or hotel staff member who knows how to share the stories of Da Nang's history and its people will create a much stronger impression than simply providing basic information. Authentic, emotionally rich narratives about Da Nang—ranging from the memories of its residents and the flavors of traditional cuisine to the vibrant energy of a young city—when woven together skillfully, will contribute to a professional tourism workforce that embodies the local character. This is also one of the core values that will help Da Nang expand its presence on the global tourism map.

Reporting by TIEU YEN – Translating by HONG VAN

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