VIRTUAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: PREPARATION AND PROPOSALS FROM TOURISM ENTERPRISES IN HO CHI MINH CITY

Abstract

        In the context of digital transformation, virtual reality (VR) technology is seen as a promising tool to enhance travel experiences and develop smart tourism. In Ho Chi Minh City-a major tourism hub in Vietnam-VR has been introduced in marketing and preliminary experience delivery but is not yet widely adopted in tourism business operations. Additionally, tourism enterprises’ readiness for VR integration remains underexplored. The paper surveyed 100 local tourism enterprises to objectively assess their preparedness for VR adoption, proposing that VR be integrated into smart tourism strategies, supported by appropriate policies to encourage technological application in tourism business models.