HOTLIST 2025 Celebrates Vietnam’s Tourism Achievements

Travellive Media Group has officially launched the HOTLIST Travellive Editor’s Pick 2025, a curated initiative recognizing significant contributions to Vietnam’s tourism industry over the past year. This year’s theme, “From Seed to Harvest,” symbolizes the journey of growth and resilience within the sector, reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by various stakeholders.

The HOTLIST project focuses on brands, destinations, and individuals that have demonstrated innovation, quality, and a commitment to sustainable growth. A prestigious advisory council, comprising experts from both Vietnam and abroad, guided the selection process. The criteria considered include social impact and long-term viability, ensuring the list resonates with the evolving values of the market.

In 2024, the HOTLIST made a notable impact by recognizing over 40 brands and 12 individuals across 28 categories, encompassing hospitality, technology, and experiential initiatives. The expansion of the event into a professional series, including The Insiders Forum and Honor Ceremony, attracted more than 700 attendees from various sectors, underscoring the initiative’s significance in the tourism and hospitality community.

Theme and Public Engagement

The theme “From Seed to Harvest” draws inspiration from rice, a vital component of Vietnam’s cultural identity. This metaphor highlights the process of nurturing ideas and resources to achieve sustainable outcomes. With the tourism sector grappling with climate change, shifting traveler preferences, and global competition, the theme emphasizes the need for adaptability and a long-term vision.

For the first time, HOTLIST 2025 incorporates a public voting element in its final evaluation stage. This initiative allows industry professionals and the general community to engage directly in the selection process. By sharing their experiences with shortlisted brands and projects, audiences can contribute to the recognition of excellence in the tourism sector.

Key Recognitions and Events

HOTLIST 2025 encompasses seven main categories: Hospitality; Aviation; Travel Design & Experiences; Destination; Technology & Innovations; Sustainability; and Community Projects & Voices. Each category aims to identify trailblazers who are shaping the future of Vietnam’s tourism landscape.

Notable brands making the list include established names such as Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Topas Ecolodge, and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. The inclusion of international brands like voco Quang Binh Resort by IHG and Park Hyatt Phu Quoc reflects the positive impact these entities have had within the Vietnamese market. In the Aviation category, STARLUX AIRLINES received recognition for its premium flight experience.

To further enhance industry dialogue, HOTLIST 2025 will feature The Insiders Forum at the Sheraton Hanoi West on January 7, 2026, and at JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon on January 19, 2026. These forums will bring together business leaders, experts, and researchers to discuss pivotal issues influencing the tourism sector.

On January 19, 2026, the Honor Ceremony will take place in Ho Chi Minh City, where certificates will be presented to the recognized brands, projects, and individuals. This event will also serve as a B2B networking opportunity for stakeholders in the industry.

Through its annual recognition activities, Travellive Media Group aims to promote sustainability and elevate standards within the tourism sector. The support of partners such as The Brand Promise, PR Newswire, and various sponsoring brands, including BMWines and Lady Triệu, reinforces the initiative’s credibility and commitment to industry excellence.

As HOTLIST 2025 cultivates connections among exceptional individuals and organizations, it continues to amplify meaningful narratives within Vietnam’s tourism landscape, contributing positively to the community and promoting responsible growth.