Travellive Media Group Launches HOTLIST 2025 Celebrating Tourism Excellence

Travellive Media Group has unveiled the HOTLIST Travellive Editor’s Pick 2025, a curated initiative recognising exceptional brands, destinations, and individuals that have significantly influenced Vietnam’s tourism industry over the past year. This annual project, which highlights the evolving values in the tourism market, reflects the contributions of various stakeholders to the sector.

The selection for HOTLIST 2025 is guided by a distinguished advisory council comprised of both local and international experts. The criteria for evaluation include quality, innovation, social impact, and potential for sustainable growth. This year’s theme, “From Seed to Harvest,” draws inspiration from rice, a staple in Vietnam’s agricultural history and cultural identity. The metaphor signifies the journey from concept to achievement, emphasising resilience and adaptability amid challenges such as climate change and shifting traveller preferences.

A notable addition for HOTLIST 2025 is the introduction of a public voting component during the final evaluation stage. This initiative empowers the community and industry professionals to engage directly in the selection process, allowing them to share their experiences with the shortlisted brands and projects.

Recognising Tourism Leaders

HOTLIST 2025 spans seven primary categories: Hospitality, Aviation, Travel Design & Experiences, Destination, Technology & Innovations, Sustainability, and Community Projects & Voices. This year’s list features renowned brands such as Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai in Hoi An, Topas Ecolodge, and Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. It also includes international entities that have positively impacted the Vietnamese market, including voco Quang Binh Resort by IHG, Park Hyatt Phu Quoc, and Hyatt Place Halong Bay. In the Aviation category, STARLUX AIRLINES earned recognition for its premium flight experience.

The expansion of award categories reflects HOTLIST’s commitment to capturing the dynamics of the industry and promoting responsible development that respects local identity and fosters social benefits.

As part of its mission to provide practical insights to the tourism sector, HOTLIST 2025 will host The Insiders Forum on January 7, 2026, at the Sheraton Hanoi West and on January 19, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City. These forums will bring together business leaders and experts to discuss key topics shaping the tourism landscape.

A Celebration of Excellence

The official recognition event, known as The Honor Ceremony, will also take place on January 19, 2026, in Ho Chi Minh City, where certificates will be awarded to the brands, projects, and individuals highlighted in HOTLIST 2025. This ceremony will serve as a B2B networking platform, fostering connections among industry stakeholders.

Over the years, HOTLIST Travellive Editor’s Pick has become a highly anticipated annual reference for the tourism community, emphasising credibility and sustainability. Through various recognition activities, dialogue forums, and community engagement, Travellive aims to elevate standards and promote sustainable practices within the tourism sector.

HOTLIST 2025 benefits from the support of The Brand Promise, which co-organises The Insiders Forum, along with media partner PR Newswire. Sponsoring brands such as BMWines, Lady Trieu (drink experiences), and Cocoon, Jourdeness (gifts) also contribute to this initiative.

As Travellive Media Group continues to amplify meaningful stories within the tourism sector, HOTLIST 2025 stands as a testament to the excellence and innovation driving Vietnam’s tourism industry forward.