The nighttime economy is not just about night markets!

(NLĐO) – Promoting the night-time economy not only contributes to increased tourism spending but also plays a strategic role in boosting revenue for the industry.

This was shared by experts at the workshop "Phygital - Digital Transformation Trends in the Tourism Industry" organized by the Institute of Smart Cities and Management, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Technology and Innovation Incubation Center (ISC) and Phygital Labs Joint Stock Company on the morning of March 4th.

Associate Professor Bui Quang Hung, Deputy Director of UEH, said that Physical technology (combining the real world and digital technology) is becoming an inevitable trend in the era of digital transformation.

The application of this technology not only enhances the visitor experience through virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and big data solutions, but also optimizes operational efficiency for businesses and management agencies.

Through the application of digital technology, the government and businesses can effectively plan and manage night-time economic zones, thereby optimizing the experience for tourists.

Mr. Le Truong Hien Hoa, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, also emphasized that the tourism industry is changing, and technology is no longer an option but a necessity. Tourists now prefer booking services online, want cashless travel, and enjoy digital experiences like AR/VR… This change has posed a challenge for the tourism industry in Ho Chi Minh City to continuously transform, adapt, and develop sustainably.

"Physical technology is becoming an essential element in the development of the tourism industry. The application of advanced technologies such as Big Data, AI, and digital travel cards will contribute to creating a smart tourism ecosystem; promoting training and supporting technology-based tourism start-ups," said Mr. Hien Hoa.

Attendees at the workshop experienced the smart check-in system solution and learned about destinations for sightseeing and travel.

For Ho Chi Minh City's tourism, alongside the trend of digital transformation, the application of digital technology also includes green tourism, sustainable development, and the exploitation of the night-time economy as key tourism products.

Lecturer Hoang Le Nam Hai, M.Sc., Institute of Smart Cities and Management, UEH, analyzed that the development of the night-time economy needs to be oriented not only towards markets and night markets but also to include entertainment, culinary, shopping, and cultural activities taking place from 6 PM the previous day to 6 AM the following day. Promoting the night-time economy not only contributes to increased tourism spending but also plays a strategic role in boosting revenue for the industry.

"Developing the night-time economy should not only serve tourism but also benefit local people. Megacities like Ho Chi Minh City need to plan and develop their night-time economies with the participation of local residents to create a unique identity that attracts tourists. Through the application of digital technology, the government and businesses can effectively plan and manage night-time economic zones, thereby optimizing the experience for tourists," said Mr. Nam Hai.

Applying technology helps enhance the visitor experience at tourist destinations.

Smart mobile platforms will make it easier for travelers to discover nightlife in real time, make reservations in advance, and share experiences instantly.

Applying technology to tourism, Mr. Nguyen Huy, General Director of Phygital Labs Joint Stock Company, said that the "smart check-in station system" solution, which enhances tourism experience and interaction, has been implemented by the company in many prominent tourist destinations such as the Hue Imperial Citadel, Hai Van Pass, SunWorld Ba Den Peak (Tay Ninh), SunWorld Fansipan (Lao Cai), etc.

The smart check-in system, along with Tap Quest, operates using NFC technology, enabling authentication of visits, tracking visitor numbers, and collecting and analyzing visitor behavior to support strategic decision-making in marketing.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/kinh-te-dem-khong-chi-co-cho-dem-196250304144142153.htm