Central Vietnam pushes for greater C&I business

Danang A major promotion has been launched to highlight conference and incentive (C&I) destinations in Central Vietnam, coinciding with infrastructure development valued at US$500million. Authorities in three provinces, Thua Thien Hue, Quang Nam and Danang have joined with Vietnam Airlines, the Vietnam National Authority for Tourism and Danang's Furama Resort to promote the region. Speaking at the launch, general manager Furama Resort Danang Mr Paul Stoll said: "Danang is the gateway to central Vietnam. There are three UNESCO heritage sites at Hue, Hoi An and the My Son temples. Few regions offer groups such a concentration of attractions." Aside from connections to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Danang airport has direct flights from Bangkok with Thai Airways and Hong Kong with Vietnam-based Pacific Airlines. Other Asian routes are in negotiation. Danang is the first entry point in Vietnam to offer visas on arrival. Vietnam Airlines passenger marketing department director Mr Ngo Minh Duc stressed the flagship carrier "operates one of the most modern fleets in Asia". The airline is also to narrow the gap in its two-tier fare structure for foreign and Vietnamese passengers. Mr Stoll pointed out Danang also has a large deep-sea port and there were substantial opportunities to increase sea-bound group visits.