Travellive Launches HOTLIST 2025 to Celebrate Vietnam’s Tourism

Travellive Media Group has announced the launch of the HOTLIST Travellive Editor’s Pick 2025, a curated project that recognizes outstanding brands, destinations, and individuals who have significantly contributed to Vietnam’s tourism industry. This initiative reflects the evolving values of the market and aims to highlight resilience and transformation within the sector. The announcement was made on January 3, 2026, in Hanoi, Vietnam.

The HOTLIST project involves a meticulous selection process guided by a prestigious advisory council composed of both domestic and international experts. Evaluation criteria for the honorees include quality, innovation, social impact, and sustainable growth potential. Last year’s HOTLIST 2024 made a notable impact by recognizing over 40 brands and 12 inspiring individuals across 28 categories related to hospitality, resorts, technology, and experiential initiatives.

From Seed to Harvest

The theme for HOTLIST 2025, “From Seed to Harvest,” draws inspiration from rice, a staple deeply embedded in Vietnam’s history and culture. This metaphor symbolizes the journey from planting ideas to achieving sustainable success, reflecting the developmental path of projects, brands, and destinations within the tourism and hospitality sectors. In light of challenges such as climate change and shifting traveler behaviors, the theme emphasizes the need for long-term vision, perseverance, and adaptability.

For the first time, HOTLIST 2025 will incorporate a public voting component in its final evaluation stage. This allows community members and industry professionals to directly participate in the selection process, fostering engagement and enabling audiences to share their experiences with shortlisted brands and projects.

Categories and Honorees

HOTLIST 2025 will feature seven main categories: Hospitality, Aviation, Travel Design & Experiences, Destination, Technology & Innovations, Sustainability, and Community Projects & Voices. Each category aims to spotlight exemplary individuals and brands that are shaping the future of Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality industry.

This year’s list continues to honor established brands, including Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An, Topas Ecolodge, and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. New international entrants, such as voco Quang Binh Resort by IHG and Park Hyatt Phu Quoc, join the ranks of recognized entities. In the Aviation category, STARLUX AIRLINES earned accolades for its premium flight experience.

The expansion of award categories reflects HOTLIST’s commitment to capturing industry dynamics comprehensively. It encourages responsible development models that respect local identities while generating positive social impacts.

As part of its objective to provide practical value to the tourism industry, HOTLIST 2025 will host The Insiders Forum in Hanoi on January 7, 2026, at the Sheraton Hanoi West, followed by a second forum in Ho Chi Minh City on January 19, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon. These forums will gather business leaders, experts, and researchers to share insights and discuss key topics shaping the tourism landscape.

The Honor Ceremony will take place on January 19, 2026, in Ho Chi Minh City, where certificates will be presented to the brands, projects, and individuals highlighted in HOTLIST 2025. This event will also serve as a networking platform for industry stakeholders.

Through the annual HOTLIST initiative, Travellive Media Group aims to become a vital reference point for the tourism community, emphasizing credibility and sustainability. By recognizing excellence and facilitating dialogue, Travellive contributes to promoting sustainable practices and elevating industry standards.

This year, HOTLIST 2025 has garnered support from various partners, including The Brand Promise, which is co-organizing The Insiders Forum, and PR Newswire as the media partner. Sponsoring brands, including BMWines and Lady Triệu, are also contributing to the initiative.

As HOTLIST 2025 prepares to amplify meaningful stories and connect exceptional individuals and organizations, it continues to share positive values with the wider public, fostering a sense of community within the tourism sector.