Lao Cai aims for 1.5 million visitors in 2014

The northern mountain province of Lao Cai is hoping to welcome 1.5 million visitors in 2014, earning at least VND2,850 billion from tourism services.
The provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism says the local tourism sector will continue developing its typical tourism products and tours to entice both domestic and foreign visitors.
The total number of tourists visiting Lao Cai reached 1.2 million in 2013, a 32.9% increase over the previous year and 10% higher than the set target. Almost 553,000 were international tourists, a 47.1% year-on-year improvement.
Tourism revenue for 2013 approached VND1,550 billion, 38.1% more than in 2012.
Lao Cai’s 2013 event highlights included the Sapa in the Clouds Festival, the Bac Ha Culture and Tourism Week, Thuong (Upper) Temple Spring Festival, and Bao Ha Temple Festival.
Heavy snowfalls late this year provided an unexpected boost to visitor numbers.
Lao Cai has more than 170 accommodation facilities, including nearly 50 hotels of 1–4 star standards, more than 90 restaurants, and homestay services.