Vietnam is in full swing with preparations to host 4,500 employees from Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, owned by one of India's wealthiest billionaires. The group is set to arrive in Vietnam between August 26 and 28, divided into six smaller groups. They will explore key northern destinations including Hanoi, Ha Long, and Ninh Binh.
Local authorities and businesses in Ha Long and Ninh Binh have been actively coordinating transportation, accommodations, and the provision of Hindi-speaking tour guides to ensure a smooth experience for the visitors. Quang Ninh's provincial leaders are set to personally welcome the group with a traditional lion dance performance, although the visitors will not be staying overnight in Ha Long. Instead, they will visit several key sites in Ha Long Bay, including Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Cho Da Islet, Ba Hang Fishing Village, Dinh Huong Islet, and Trong Mai Islet.
To cater to the group's needs, Hindi-speaking tour guides have been arranged, and local businesses are preparing to offer Indian cuisine, respecting the dietary requirements of the visitors. A source revealed that the group initially planned to visit Singapore but ultimately chose Vietnam.
In Ninh Binh, the local tourism department has been collaborating with various units over the past two weeks to finalize detailed plans for the visit. At major attractions like Trang An and Tam Coc - Bich Dong, which require boat tours, arrangements are being made to prioritize the large group for convenient and efficient transportation.
Bui Van Manh, director of the Ninh Binh Provincial Department of Tourism, noted that dozens of Hindi-speaking tour guides have been assigned to assist the tourists. Security, order, and healthcare measures have also been strengthened, with additional personnel deployed to address any issues that may arise.
Regarding accommodations, Manh mentioned that Ninh Binh City currently has around 10 hotels that meet four-to-five-star standards. However, he acknowledged that cuisine could be a challenge, as Indian visitors have specific dietary requirements due to their religious and cultural beliefs. In response, local authorities are organizing crash courses in Indian culinary skills to better serve the guests.
Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian tourists. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, the country welcomed 392,000 Indian visitors last year, a 231% increase compared to 2019. In the first six months of this year alone, more than 231,000 Indian visitors have traveled to Vietnam, marking a 164% increase over the same period last year.