Vietnam hospitality boom is gathering pace, and the latest sign of that momentum is Centara Hotels & Resorts’ planned bayfront opening in Van Don in late 2026. As major global brands deepen their footprint across the country, Vietnam is strengthening its reputation as one of Asia’s most closely watched tourism growth stories, with new luxury hotels, better connectivity and fresh opportunities for international travellers.
Centara’s upcoming project adds to a wider wave of investment that already includes established names such as Marriott, Hilton and Accor. The move underlines how strongly international operators now view Vietnam’s long-term tourism potential, especially in coastal destinations that combine scenic appeal with improving transport infrastructure.
Vietnam Hospitality Boom Gains Strength in Van Don
Centara Hotel & Residences Van Don is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2026, becoming the Thai hotel group’s second property in Vietnam. The development is positioned within the Ao Tien High-Class Port and Tourism Urban Area, with views across Bai Tu Long Bay, a northern coastal region increasingly seen as an alternative to busier beach and cruise markets.
The project matters because it reflects a broader shift in the country’s tourism map. Investors are no longer focused only on Vietnam’s biggest gateway cities. Instead, attention is moving toward emerging destinations where airports, roads and tourism services are being upgraded to support year-round leisure and business travel.
- Opening target: Q4 2026
- Location: Van Don, Quang Ninh province
- Setting: Waterfront site facing Bai Tu Long Bay
- Access: Around 15 minutes from Van Don International Airport
- Positioning: Leisure, family, business and extended-stay market
Why Van Don and Bai Tu Long Bay Are Drawing Attention
Van Don is becoming more attractive to developers because it offers a combination of natural beauty and easier access than many travellers might expect. Bai Tu Long Bay, known for its limestone scenery and calmer atmosphere, appeals to visitors looking for a more relaxed northern Vietnam coastal experience.
For tourism planners and hotel operators, this kind of location is valuable. It can attract both domestic and international travellers without the congestion associated with more mature destinations. That creates room for upscale hospitality, curated excursions and mixed-use tourism developments that can lift the region’s profile over time.
The airport connection is especially important. With the property located a short drive from Van Don International Airport, the destination becomes more practical for short breaks, event travel and multi-stop itineraries through northern Vietnam.
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What the New Centara Hotel Will Offer
The planned hotel will include 481 guestrooms and suites across 12 accommodation categories. A notable feature is that each room is expected to include a kitchenette, making the property suitable not only for short-stay holidaymakers but also for families, business travellers and guests staying longer.
This design approach reflects changing travel behaviour. More guests now prefer hotels that blend full-service hospitality with residential-style convenience. That is especially relevant in destinations attracting bleisure travel, multigenerational trips and extended vacations.
Key guest features expected at the property
- 481 rooms and suites
- 12 room categories
- Kitchenettes in all accommodations
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Fitness centre
- SPA Cenvaree
- Kids’ Club
- Retail and shopping elements
- Bay excursion access
Dining will also be a major part of the guest experience, with plans for Vietnamese, Italian, Chinese and international cuisine. That broad culinary mix suggests Centara is targeting both overseas travellers and the growing domestic tourism market.
Business Travel and Events Will Be Part of the Growth Story
The Vietnam hospitality boom is not being powered by leisure travel alone. Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions are becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s tourism economy, especially in destinations outside the largest urban centres.
Centara’s Van Don project is expected to include two large ballrooms and multiple meeting rooms, giving it the infrastructure to host conferences, weddings, corporate gatherings and private events. That matters because hotels that can serve both holiday and business demand often achieve stronger year-round performance.
For Van Don, this also means broader economic value. Event-driven travel can support local suppliers, transport providers, food services and destination experiences while helping reduce reliance on purely seasonal tourism.
Why Global Hotel Brands Are Expanding in Vietnam
Vietnam hospitality boom trends are being driven by several long-term fundamentals. The country has benefited from tourism recovery, rising domestic mobility, stronger infrastructure investment and growing international recognition as a value-rich destination for both upscale and mainstream travellers.
Hotel groups are paying attention to:
- Improved air connectivity and regional airport growth
- Rising demand for premium and branded accommodation
- Expanding interest in coastal and nature-based tourism
- Opportunities for integrated resort and residence projects
- Growing business travel and MICE demand
As more brands enter secondary and emerging destinations, competition is likely to improve service quality and diversify accommodation choices. That is good news for travellers, and it also strengthens Vietnam’s competitiveness in Southeast Asia’s crowded tourism market.
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What This Means for Travellers and the Region
For travellers, the opening of Centara Hotel & Residences Van Don could create a new northern Vietnam option that combines waterfront scenery, branded comfort and easier access to a quieter bay setting. For the region, it may help accelerate tourism diversification, local employment and further hospitality investment.
The project also sends a wider market signal. When established international brands commit to destinations like Van Don, they are effectively validating the area’s long-term tourism potential. That often leads to more supporting infrastructure, more visitor awareness and a stronger pipeline of complementary businesses.
Conclusion
The Vietnam hospitality boom is entering a new phase, and Centara’s planned Van Don opening is a clear example of where the market is heading. With a strategic bayfront location, extensive guest facilities and a model designed for both leisure and business travel, the project highlights why Vietnam continues to attract serious hotel investment. If current momentum continues, Van Don and Bai Tu Long Bay could soon become must-watch names in Asia’s evolving luxury travel landscape.
FAQs
When will Centara Hotel & Residences Van Don open?
The property is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Where is the hotel located?
It is planned for the Ao Tien High-Class Port and Tourism Urban Area in Van Don, overlooking Bai Tu Long Bay in northern Vietnam.
How far is it from the airport?
The hotel is expected to be around 15 minutes from Van Don International Airport.
What facilities will the hotel include?
Plans include 481 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, pools, a spa, fitness centre, Kids’ Club, shopping options and meeting and ballroom facilities.
Why is Van Don important for tourism growth?
Van Don offers scenic coastal appeal, improving infrastructure and convenient airport access, making it a rising destination for both leisure and business travel.
