Ninh Bình continues to make its mark on the international tourism scene, securing three nominations at once at the 2026 World Travel Awards (WTA). The province itself is nominated for "Asia's Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2026," while Cúc Phương National Park is in the running for "Asia's Leading National Park 2026," and the Tam Chúc Tourism Complex is nominated for "Asia's Leading Cultural Tourism Destination 2026."
The nominations offer an important opportunity to promote the image of Ninh Bình's heritage landscape and Vietnam's leading destinations to the global travel community. Every vote cast by local residents, visitors, and international friends not only boosts the destinations' chances of winning but also helps spread the Vietnam tourism brand further on the world stage.
Often dubbed the "Oscars of the Travel Industry," the World Travel Awards is one of the world's most prestigious honors, recognizing outstanding destinations, businesses, and brands in tourism. Ninh Bình's presence alongside two of its flagship destinations on the 2026 nomination list reflects international recognition of the region's efforts in heritage conservation, green tourism development, product quality improvement, and sustainable destination branding.
Notably, 2026 marks the eighth time Cúc Phương National Park has been nominated by the World Travel Awards in the "Asia's Leading National Park" category. The park previously won the title seven years running, from 2018 to 2024, cementing its status as one of the region's - and Vietnam's - foremost nature reserves. With its distinctive tropical rainforest ecosystem, remarkable biodiversity, and internationally recognized wildlife conservation programs, Cúc Phương continues to draw nature lovers and research organizations from around the world.
For Ninh Bình, the "Asia's Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2026" nomination recognizes the strong strides the local tourism sector has made in recent years. Home to the Trang An Landscape Complex - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - along with a rich array of cultural heritage, distinctive natural scenery, and a commitment to green, sustainable tourism development, Ninh Bình is steadily establishing itself as one of Asia's most compelling destinations.
Meanwhile, the Tam Chúc Tourism Complex, nominated for "Asia's Leading Cultural Tourism Destination 2026," further underscores the appeal of this cultural and spiritual site, distinguished by its vast pagoda complex, majestic natural surroundings, and deep historical and cultural significance.
The three nominations at the 2026 World Travel Awards are a source of pride not only for Ninh Bình and its flagship destinations but also serve to elevate the image and brand of Vietnamese tourism in the international market - offering the world a window into the country's natural beauty, cultural richness, heritage, and commitment to sustainable development.