Blog Posts

Danang Ascends: Emerging as a Magnetic Hub for Global Tourism and a Leading MICE Destination in Southeast Asia

In the opening months of 2025, Danang has written a brilliant new chapter on the global tourism map, asserting its leadership with the strongest rebound and growth in international visitor arrivals in Vietnam. With its strategic geographic location, open tourism policies, and the presence of iconic luxury resorts such as Furama Resort Danang, this vibrant coastal city is steadily realizing its ambition of becoming a premier international tourism and MICE destination in Southeast Asia.

According to Bao Danang, the city’s tourism sector saw a spectacular breakthrough in the first quarter of 2025. Total visitor numbers reached an impressive 2.1 million, up 23.4% year-on-year. A standout highlight was the remarkable 63.8% surge in international arrivals, totaling 931,000 visitors. These figures not only confirm Danang’s growing appeal but also signal a robust and sustainable rebound in the inbound travel market. Tourism revenue for the quarter was estimated at VND 7,800 billion, up 26.5%, underscoring the sector’s positive economic impact.

Soaring International Flights – Danang’s Runway to the World

A key driver of this growth has been the vibrant return of international air routes. Danang is currently operating 37 international air routes with 517 weekly flights, directly connecting to major markets such as South Korea, China, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, and multiple European countries. The return of 59 international travel agencies—up by 12 compared to Q1 2024—reflects renewed trust and high expectations for Danang’s tourism potential.

The city has also taken proactive steps in global tourism promotion by participating in leading international travel fairs in Germany, Singapore, and India. In addition, hosting 9 international famtrip delegations has created direct opportunities to showcase Danang’s tourism offerings in an authentic and impactful way.

Furama Resort Danang – A Symbol of Luxury Hospitality Elevating Global Guest Experience

Stretching along the stunning My Khe Beach, Furama Resort Danang is not only the city’s first 5-star resort but also a long-standing symbol of world-class luxury. With its solid reputation, the resort remains a top choice for international travelers and a strategic partner supporting Danang’s development as a premium destination for leisure and MICE tourism.

In Q1/2025, Furama Resort Danang welcomed a large influx of international guests from key markets such as South Korea, Australia, and Europe. Signature experiences such as fine dining at Tàya House, holistic wellness treatments at V-Senses Wellness & Spa, immersive Vietnamese cooking classes, and local cultural discovery tours have created lasting impressions, highly praised for their authenticity and service quality.

Most notably, with the prestigious Ariyana Convention Centre Danang—which proudly hosted APEC 2017—Furama Resort Danang continues to be the preferred venue for major international conferences, exhibitions, and events, affirming its pioneering role in the city’s MICE tourism landscape.

Danang’s Vision: Becoming the Premier MICE and Resort Destination in Southeast Asia

With its impressive performance in the first quarter of 2025, Danang is steadily realizing its strategic goal of becoming a leading international hub for tourism and conferences in Southeast Asia. The collective efforts of pioneering tourism enterprises—especially premium hospitality brands like Furama Resort Danang—will be the cornerstone that propels this coastal gem further onto the global tourism stage.

Source: Bao Danang – Article titled “Đà Nẵng đang ngày càng hấp dẫn đối với du khách quốc tế” (Danang is Becoming Increasingly Attractive to International Visitors)

Furama Resort Da Nang: Affirming Premier Status with Prestigious Awards from VITM 2025.

Da Nang, Vietnam – April 12, 2025 – Amidst the celebratory atmosphere within Vietnam’s tourism industry, Furama Resort Da Nang, Vietnam’s pioneering 5-star international beach resort, is once again proud to shine, having been honored with prestigious awards at the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2025. This continues the journey of affirming the leading position and outstanding service quality that Furama consistently strives for.

Building on its previous achievements, this year’s VITM 2025 event acknowledged the relentless contributions of Furama Resort Da Nang to the nation’s tourism industry through two prestigious awards:

• Most Efficient Resort 2024
• Outstanding Conference Service Resort 2024

These awards are not only a testament to excellence in business operations and professional MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) event organization capabilities but also recognize the resort’s steadfast efforts in cultivating a “green brand.” VITM 2025 particularly commended Furama Resort Da Nang’s commitment to sustainable development, demonstrated through efficient resource utilization, pioneering efforts in plastic waste reduction, preservation and expansion of green spaces, and the promotion and dissemination of unique local cultural values.

A clear testament to this commitment are the pioneering initiatives being effectively implemented at the Furama – Ariyana Da Nang International Tourism Complex. A prime example is the FREDAQUA Water Plant, officially launched on March 8, 2024, at the Ariyana Convention Centre Da Nang. This initiative not only elevates service quality but also represents a significant stride in environmental protection by replacing plastic bottled water with an elegant system of reusable glass bottles. This contributes to a considerable reduction in plastic waste – estimated to eliminate nearly half a million plastic bottles from the service process.

Furthermore, the Furama Food Farm model – an on-site organic garden – provides fresh, wholesome, and sustainable food sources for the resort’s restaurants. This not only ensures culinary quality but also minimizes the carbon footprint from transportation, demonstrating respect for natural resources and the health of guests.

Sharing his pride, Mr. Gentzsch Andre Pierre – Operations Director of Furama Resort Da Nang, who accepted the awards, expressed: “I am extremely honored that the efforts of the entire Furama Resort Da Nang team in business, conference services, and sustainable activities have been recognized by the Vietnam Tourism Association at VITM. This achievement stems from the dedication, professionalism, and seamless coordination of our entire staff. We pledge to continuously invest and develop to provide optimal conference solutions and refined, memorable resort experiences for our valued guests.”

Notably, at VITM 2025, the tourism industry also honored outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to its development. Mr. Nguyen Duc Quynh – General Director of Bac My An Tourism Joint Stock Company (the owning company of Furama Resort Da Nang) was honored with the Outstanding Hotel General Manager 2024 award. This is well-deserved recognition for his strategic vision, innovative initiatives, and relentless dedication in positioning Furama Resort Da Nang as an icon of luxury hospitality and a premier destination on the tourism map of Vietnam and the world.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Quynh shared: “This honor and pride belong to the entire team at Furama Resort Da Nang. Receiving prestigious awards consecutively at VITM is valuable recognition for our tireless efforts in delivering the highest standards of experiences and services. This serves as a great motivation for Furama to continue its journey of innovation, enhancing service quality, and maintaining its position as one of Vietnam’s leading resorts.”

These prestigious awards from VITM once again affirm the pioneering position and solid reputation of Furama Resort Da Nang. Captivating guests not only with its unique Champa architecture blended with classic French influences, luxurious spaces along the picturesque My Khe beach, and international-standard culinary and resort services, Furama is also an ideal MICE destination, successfully hosting numerous large-scale events and conferences of national and international significance.

About the Furama – Ariyana Da Nang International Tourism Complex:

Over nearly three decades of continuous formation and development, Furama Resort Da Nang has grown to become the heart of the Furama – Ariyana Da Nang International Tourism Complex. This is a premier resort and convention complex where magnificent natural beauty harmonizes with luxurious accommodation services and modern convention infrastructure.

Guests can immerse themselves in heritage resort experiences and exquisite cuisine at Furama Resort & Villas Da Nang, while also utilizing the advanced conference system including the International Convention Palace (ICP) and the Ariyana Convention Centre Da Nang (ACC) – which made history by hosting the APEC 2017 High-Level Week and pioneered the Fredaqua water plant. In 2024 alone, the Complex welcomed over 83,000 staying guests and organized nearly 200 diverse events with over 200,000 attendees, ranging from international summits to unique cultural and artistic programs, affirming its role as a bridge for cultural exchange and global integration.

Furama Resort Da Nang is committed to continuing its journey of delivering refined experiences and impeccable service, harmoniously blending luxury with environmental responsibility, worthy of being a top destination for all travelers and partners.

WORKSHOP 50 YEARS OF ASEAN – NEW ZEALAND PARTNERSHIP AT INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION PALACE

On April 8, 2025, the International Convention Palace (ICP) at Furama Resort Danang was honored to serve as the venue for the diplomatic event “50th Anniversary Seminar of the ASEAN – New Zealand Dialogue Partnership.” This important occasion commemorated a major milestone in diplomacy and reaffirmed the deep relationship between ASEAN and New Zealand (1975-2025).

With the participation of representatives from ASEAN member states and delegation from New Zealand, the seminar conveyed a strong message: solidarity, mutual trust, and respect have always been the foundation of the ASEAN – New Zealand partnership throughout five decades of cooperation. Building on that foundation, both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment and vision for peace and prosperity in the region.

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The International Convention Palace (ICP) at Furama Resort Danang, officially opened in 2006 to serve the APEC Summit, has become a symbol of connection and integration. Today, the ICP is honored to be the top choice for prestigious international events, through which Furama Resort Danang proudly fulfills its mission of promoting the values of Vietnamese culinary culture to the international community. We sincerely thank our esteemed leaders and guests for their trust and partnership in choosing us as their event venue!

VINFAST IRONMAN 70.3 VIETNAM 2025: CHALLENGE YOUR LIMITS, DISCOVER DA NANG

On May 11, 2025, the coastal city of Da Nang – nicknamed “the most livable city in Vietnam” – will once again buzz with a world-class international sporting event: VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 Vietnam. This is the 8th edition of the premier triathlon event, gathering thousands of domestic and international athletes to compete and conquer their personal limits.

A World-Class Sporting Event in the Heart of Vietnam’s Most Livable City

Returning spectacularly for its 8th time, VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 Vietnam 2025 continues to assert its position as one of the most attractive and professional triathlon races in Asia. Not only does it gather thousands of domestic and international athletes, the event is also an opportunity to discover the multi-faceted beauty of the coastal city of Da Nang – from its landscapes and cuisine to its cultural heritage.

A Journey to Conquer the Most Beautiful Routes in Central Vietnam

Swim 1.9km: Starting from Son Thuy beach, featuring a distinctive T-shaped course with clear blue water and fine sand – beginning the challenging journey amidst stunning natural scenery.

Bike 90km: Athletes complete 2 laps winding along the coast, passing through flat, fast roads filled with the sea air and characteristic golden sunshine of Central Vietnam.

Run 21km: Concluding with a run along the beach – where athletes are celebrated amidst a vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic cheering.

Venue for VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 Vietnam 2025

The VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 Vietnam 2025 event will officially take place in Da Nang city, one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, renowned for its long coastline, mild climate, convenient transportation, and strategic geographical location – situated between three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary, and the Hue Imperial City.

Exciting Side Activities: A Playground for All Ages

IRONMAN 70.3 is not just a fierce battleground for professional athletes, but also a multi-generational sports festival where everyone – from beginners to young children – has the opportunity to immerse themselves in the competitive spirit and promote physical fitness. Two prominent side activities of the season are Sunrise SPRINT Vietnam and IRONKIDS Vietnam, both receiving strong support from the community and athletes’ families.

IRONKIDS Vietnam – Igniting Passion from a Young Age

IRONKIDS is one of the most anticipated activities, especially for families with young children accompanying the main athletes. This is a mini version of IRONMAN for children, aimed at inspiring sportsmanship, the spirit of overcoming limits, and self-confidence from an early age.

Race distances according to age group:
6 – 10 years old: 500m run
11 – 14 years old: 100m swim + 1km run
There may be additional simple combined events like Aquathlon (swim + run) or just running, depending on age and ability.
Goal: Not focusing heavily on results, IRONKIDS aims to build sportsmanship, discipline, and independence in a professional, yet friendly and fun environment. Every child is celebrated as a “little champion” after completing the race.
Safety & Support: The event is held within a controlled area, with a team of guides, volunteers, medical staff, and a dedicated cheering zone for parents.

Choose Furama Resort Danang – The Ideal Retreat for the IRONMAN Season

To fully enjoy the IRONMAN season in Da Nang, Furama Resort Danang is the perfect choice for athletes and accompanying visitors.

Prime Location: Situated right on Bac My An beach – one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet – and just a few minutes’ drive to the competition area.

Sports Nutrition: Restaurants at Furama can prepare special high-energy meals suitable for athletes’ training and competition needs.

Wellness & Spa Center: After a strenuous race, recover your body with intensive relaxation therapies at V-Sense Wellness & Spa – where you’ll experience special treatments to help your body and mind fully relax after efforts on the course.

Premium Amenities: Swimming pools, gym, private resort areas, and a tranquil environment ideal for recovery before and after the race.

Book your room now at: https://furamavietnam.com/our-rooms/

Event Information
Date: May 11, 2025
Location: Bien Dong Park – Da Nang, Vietnam
Type: Triathlon
Distances: IRONMAN 70.3 (1.9km swim – 90km bike – 21km run)

GBA Newly Appoints Two Representatives for Central Vietnam to Regional Strengthen Presence

In line with our Strategy 2025 and our commitment to strengthening our presence in Central Vietnam, we are expanding our footprint through dedicated representatives. We are therefore delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. David Will – General Director of Dräxlmaier Automotive Vietnam, and Mr. André Pierre Gentzsch – General Manager of Ariyana Tourism Complex, as GBA Representatives for Central Vietnam, effective April 1st, 2025.

Their leadership, expertise, and dedication to business excellence will connect GBA members with the region’s dynamic business landscape. They will focus on membership development and supporting activities across Central Vietnam. Here is a closer look at their backgrounds:

Mr. David Will – General Director of Dräxlmaier Automotive Vietnam
With over a decade of experience at the Dräxlmaier Group, Mr. Will has been instrumental in expanding production and development sites across Europe. As a psychologist and Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt, he emphasizes leadership development and operational excellence. Under his guidance, Dräxlmaier Automotive Vietnam is projected to grow to over 1,000 employees by 2025, with further expansion planned until 2029. His mission as GBA representative is to foster a strong and united network of German and European businesses in the region, advocating for their interests and policy matters.

Reach out to Mr. Will at <will@gba-vietnam.org> for any further inquiries or if you need any support.

Mr. André Pierre Gentzsch – General Manager of Furama – Ariyana Danang International Tourism Complex
With 35 years of global experience in hospitality, events management, and airline catering, Mr. Gentzsch has led large-scale hotel operations, convention centers, and tourism projects. His expertise spans international luxury hotel brands, including Hilton and Regent, across multiple continents. As a respected leadership trainer and industry consultant, he has significantly contributed to developing Vietnamese talent in hospitality. His innovative approach and deep knowledge of the MICE and tourism sectors will be invaluable to GBA’s efforts in fostering connections and business growth in Central Vietnam.

With their appointment, GBA reaffirms its commitment to expanding its presence and fostering a strong business network in the region. We are confident that their leadership will drive meaningful engagement and new opportunities for the German business community in Central Vietnam.

Reach out to Mr. Gentzsch at <gentzsch@gba-vietnam.org> for any further inquiries or if you need any support.

EXPERIENCE ARTISTIC HARMONY: ‘DRIFTING CLOUDS & CARVING SILK” & “DREAMS OF CELESTIAL SPLENDOR” AT FURAMA RESORT DANANG

Furama Resort Danang is honored to announce the special art event “Drifting Clouds & Carving Silk” & “Dreams of Celestial Splendor”, taking place from 17:30 on March 28, 2025, at Furama Resort Danang.

As part of the activities celebrating the 95th anniversary of the founding of the city’s Party Committee and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Da Nang, the Furama Resort Danang – The Culinary Heritage Resort proudly presents the remarkable art event “Drifting Clouds & Carving Silk” & “Dreams of Celestial Splendor”, scheduled for March 28, 2025.

The event is a multisensory artistic journey, where fashion, visual arts, and music intertwine to honor the beauty and cultural heritage of Vietnam. Here, the past and present converge, guiding guests through an emotional exploration of artistic creations.

With a vision to serve as a bridge between traditional cultural essence and modern life, Furama Resort Danang – The Culinary & Heritage Resort not only offers luxurious retreats but also stands as a hub of remarkable cultural and artistic values. “Drifting Clouds & Carving Silk” & “Dreams of Celestial Splendor” continue the resort’s cultural and artistic event series, promising to be an unforgettable highlight in the journey of discovering Vietnamese heritage.

This artistic event is the culmination of an inspiring fusion between East and West, brought to life by designer Phạm Ngọc Anh and visual artist Phạm Tuấn Ngọc. Their work reimagines Vietnamese heritage patterns on Vietnamese silk, a fabric deeply rooted in Eastern tradition.

Silk, a symbolic and time-honored material of the East, embodies both familiarity and elegance, reflecting a balance between intimacy and sophistication. However, the artistic challenge lies in applying handcrafted printing techniques and integrating heritage motifs onto silk without compromising its delicate, lightweight, and luminous nature—a feat that demands the utmost skill and artistry.

With a unique artistic approach, the “Drifting Clouds & Carving Silk” & “Dreams of Celestial Splendor” collection harmonizes artistic concepts while creating captivating visual effects in every piece. On the lustrous ivory-white Vietnamese silk, a traditional material of Vietnam, heritage motifs are depicted using the rare cyanotype “Prussian Blue” technique, producing a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. This technique evokes a mystical and enigmatic Eastern aura, drawing viewers into a world of visual enchantment. Under the influence of light and live performance, these cyanotype-printed Vietnamese patterns, crafted with a classic Western technique, take on a dynamic beauty—fluid as drifting clouds, awakening a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and artistic freedom.

Originating from initial aspirations in 2019, this artistic project has undergone over 100 experimental iterations, including more than 20 trials with the cyanotype printing technique and over 20 fabric material tests. It has been a tireless journey across Vietnam, from North to South, in pursuit of fully capturing its distinctive artistic essence—a harmonious fusion of rigidity and fluidity, East and West, tradition and modernity.

With passion and a unique artistic language, designer Phạm Ngọc Anh and visual artist Phạm Tuấn Ngọc have officially introduced this labor of love, hoping that audiences will develop a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese heritage. At the same time, they seek to convey the ongoing evolution of culture and the importance of preservation and continuity. Through these creations, we aspire to make a statement on the international stage: Vietnam is not just a nation of learning and craftsmanship but also a land that nurtures unique creative talents—artists who enrich and elevate the nation’s distinctive materials and cultural legacy.

Designer Pham Ngoc Anh: Returning to Vietnam from Switzerland after earning a Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry, Phạm Ngọc Anh embarked on a journey in sustainable fashion, founding the La Phạm design brand. Her work is distinguished by the modern reinterpretation of the traditional Vietnamese áo dài, incorporating ethnic brocade patterns on eco-friendly natural fabrics such as silk and hemp.

Visual Artist Pham Tuan Ngoc: Initially recognized as a photographer, Phạm Tuấn Ngọc made his mark with the 2019 exhibition “9 – Black & White Paris.” Over time, he expanded his artistic practice, delving into handcrafted printing techniques and embracing the role of a visual artist, dedicated to reviving beauty in everyday life.

As Vietnam’s premier Culinary & Heritage Resort, Furama Resort Danang is not only a destination for luxurious getaways but also a refined cultural crossroads, where Vietnamese heritage meets modern sophistication. The resort takes pride in curating remarkable culinary and cultural events, including the Vietnamese Culinary & Culture Journey, Whispers of the Lotus, and Drifting Clouds & Carving Silk & Dreams of Celestial Splendor. Through these events, Furama Resort Danang offers international guests a unique and immersive cultural experience, celebrating the essence of Vietnamese heritage.