Why Vietnam Dropped Off the List of Top Global Food Destinations for 2025
Vietnam’s cuisine is considered a major attraction for tourists, yet it has fallen off Tripadvisor’s list of top food destinations for 2025, despite previously holding high rankings. Experts suggest that increased competition and changing travel trends contribute to this decline, while emphasizing the need for innovation and effective marketing. Addressing challenges like overpricing and enhancing the culinary experience may help restore Vietnam’s reputation on the global stage.
In recent discussions regarding Vietnam’s culinary reputation, Gary Johnson, an experienced traveler, noted that the standout aspect of Vietnam for tourists is its cuisine. Travelers often mention the deliciousness of Vietnamese dishes before discussing the country’s scenic beauty, affordability, or hospitality. Susan Halliwell echoed this sentiment, praising specific dishes such as banh xeo and trung vit lon, despite her initial willingness to try street food.
Despite the positive remarks, both travelers found it surprising that Vietnam did not appear on Tripadvisor’s list of the top global food destinations for 2025. Last year, Hanoi ranked first and was third in 2023, highlighting a significant decline in its ratings. Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice rankings are highly coveted, with less than 1% of 8 million listed destinations receiving accolades based on traveler reviews.
According to culinary expert Ho Dac Thieu Anh, Vietnam’s decline in ranking may be a result of enhanced culinary offerings in competing destinations and shifting global travel trends. Martin Koener, Vice President of the German Business Association in Vietnam, added that changing traveler demographics and reviews could also contribute to Vietnam’s exclusion. Experts have warned that without innovation in its food scene, Vietnam risks falling further behind.
Remi Van Peteghem, an Executive Chef at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, suggested that international visitors might have limited access to the variety of Vietnamese cuisine, which could affect perceptions and enjoyment. It is not uncommon for cities to fall off the rankings, as shown by the absence of several cities from past lists, including Florence and Crete.
British traveler Nigel Halliwell mentioned that ranking systems such as Michelin or Tripadvisor do not necessarily reflect individual tastes, emphasizing the subjectivity of culinary preferences. Thieu Anh contended that Hanoi’s food maintains its traditional and cultural essence, appealing to those who appreciate heritage.
Despite the decline in rankings, Koener praised the quality of Hanoi’s culinary offerings. To enhance its status, experts recommend that Vietnam collaborate with renowned chefs, increase participation in food-related events, and improve its presence in Michelin ratings. Additionally, promoting interactive culinary experiences could boost tourism in this area.
Concerns regarding hygiene, safety, and sustainable sourcing practices require attention to enhance Vietnam’s attractiveness as a food destination. Van Peteghem highlighted the disparity in perceptions of street food between countries, indicating a lack of strong branding for Vietnam’s diverse street cuisine.
Local products, such as coffee and artisanal beverages, should be featured prominently to improve Vietnam’s global culinary brand. Addressing issues such as overpricing and scams that affect tourists is essential to preserving the integrity of Vietnamese cuisine. Nguyen Ba Thien An, a local observer, illustrated the negative experiences of tourists being overcharged in Hanoi.
As Vietnam approaches pre-pandemic levels of tourism, with record numbers of international arrivals, some stakeholders argue that visitor counts and spending are more critical than rankings. Nguyen Van My, Chairman of Lua Viet Tours, emphasized that attracting international visitors and their expenditure is of paramount importance, overshadowing the significance of ranking statuses.
The decline of Vietnam’s culinary ranking on Tripadvisor for 2025, despite its historical prominence, has raised concerns among experts and travelers alike. Factors such as increased competition, changing travel trends, and demographic shifts contribute to this drop. However, the positive perception of Vietnamese cuisine persists, underscoring the need for innovation and effective promotion to reclaim its esteemed position. Strategies such as collaboration with global chefs and emphasis on local products may enhance Vietnam’s culinary reputation globally, while addressing pricing strategies could improve the overall tourist experience.
Original Source: e.vnexpress.net
