In 2015, the number of visitors to Quang Binh has reached 2.86 million, an increase of 3.9 percent, of which international tourist arrivals are 46,900, an increase of 8.9 percent.

Turnover from hotels and restaurants has reached more than VND1.930 trillion, an increase of 19 percent.

The strongest growth was recorded in tourism, which increased up to 89.4 percent and hit VND179 billion.

The Provincial People's Committee said such success was the result of the promotional campaign of Son Doong Cave, especially after the American Broadcasting Company (ABC News) aired a signature program featuring the grotto earlier this year. In May, ABC broadcast live the show accentuating the astounding magnificence of Son Doong and En (Swallow) Caves on “Good Morning America,” a much-loved program watched by an average of six million subscribers every day.

The cave has been praised as one of the most surreal places on earth. US magazine Smithsonian even named the cave the greatest place to see in the 21st century.

The expedition to Son Doong Cave, offered by Oxalis, has become a choice of many tourists from around the world. There are currently nearly 500 awaiting visitors who wish to explore Son Doong Cave, filling the 2016 tour schedule.

Hundreds of thrill seekers, mostly foreigners, are currently in line for an adventure expedition, which costs between US$3,000 and $6,000 each person, to the awe-inspiring cave.

The adventure tours are considered highly difficult, during which visitors will have to walk nearly 60km, not to mention other activities such as climbing, crossing the forest, and wading through the streams.

In 2015, Quang Binh has operated new routes and destinations in and around the nature reserve to tourists, including exploring Tu lan Cave, Tien Cave, Va and Nuoc Nut, all of which have amazed tourists with their captivating limestone structures and primeval sight.

In addition, Quang Binh has organized a series of event to attract tourists to Phong Nha - Ke Bang in particular and Quang Binh in general, including the 2nd recognition of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park as a world natural heritage, Quang Binh Cave 2015, Quang Binh tourism and investment promotion conference 2015.

By Nhu Y
(Source: Quang Binh Portal)