Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay remains a very present activity - Mr Linh's Adventures
Hey there, Vietnam enthusiasts!
As you know, the Land of the Dragon is constantly evolving, a dynamic country that never ceases to surprise us.
But did you know an administrative "revolution" is underway? Since July 2025, the map of Vietnam has been redrawn, and not just a little! We've gone from 63 provinces to just 34. This is a major transformation, the most extensive reconfiguration since the end of the war, aligning with Vietnam's vision to become a high-income country by 2045.
So, what does this concretely mean for your treks, motorbike trips, and explorations of the wildest corners?
Hold tight, we'll explain everything!
When administration serves adventure
A new map for new perspectives
This reform, effective since early July 2025, primarily aims for better governance efficiency, particularly through a simplified two-tier system (provincial and communal, goodbye districts!).
The idea? To simplify administrative procedures with a "one-stop shop." But beyond offices and forms, this reorganization also has repercussions on the ground, where we love to drop our backpacks. Official maps, signage, travel documents… everything will be progressively updated until the end of 2025, early 2026.
Our signature tours
Administrative changes, intact (even improved!) adventures
Let's talk about what excites us most: your next excursions! The good news is that the immediate and tangible impact on your travel experience will be minimal. Hiking itineraries, treks, and your favorite attractions will largely remain unchanged. The benefits of this reform are primarily structural and long-term.
► Trekking on the Trails of Northern Vietnam 9 days 8 nights
If Bac Kan has merged with Thai Nguen, the serenity of Ba Be lake is unchanged - Mr Linh's AdventuresHeading North: from Ba Be to the borders of China
Always dreamed of cruising on
Ba Be Lake, in the heart of the national park of the same name? Know that the former
Bac Kan province is now integrated into
Thai Nguyen. Don't worry, the peaceful beauty of the lake, the hospitality of the Tay people, and the lush forests are still there.
This integration aims for more coherent resource management, which, in the long run, could even mean better infrastructure to welcome you, without altering the authentic charm.
And what about the essential
Ha Giang loop? The one that makes so many motorbike and cycling adventurers' hearts pound. Great news for lovers of magnificent panoramas: Ha Giang has merged with
Tuyen Quang. This probably doesn't mean much to you, but the explicit goal of this union is to "
boost and develop tourism in this northern sector." Imagine even better-maintained roads (we hope!), smoother services between two key provinces, and increased opportunities to discover hidden wonders. It's the perfect time to plan your next expedition to the far North!
Of course, Cao Bang remains a province in its own right, ready to amaze you with the Ban Gioc waterfalls and its spectacular karst landscapes, forming with the new large Ha Giang-Tuyen Quang a golden triangle for adventure enthusiasts.
Ha Giang becomes a huge playground for nature-loving adventurers - Mr Linh's AdventuresBeyond the North: changes for all of Vietnam
The reform affects the entire country, creating larger and more integrated tourist "hubs." At the gates of the Central Highlands, Dalat, the eternal city of spring, is no longer a distinct province. It is now the administrative center of the new Lam Dong province, bringing together Dak Nong, Binh Thuan, and the former Lam Dong. This new entity aims for more integrated management of the region's tourist resources, promising a more coherent offering, from coastal beaches to mountain retreats.
On the South coast, Phan Thiet is now integrated into a larger province. But its identity as a seaside destination remains intact for visitors seeking sun and fine sand.
The Mekong Delta, meanwhile, sees Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, and Vinh Long merge to form the new Vinh Long province. A consolidation that should facilitate the creation of more coherent river tours and better promotion of this unique region.
Another interesting change is the merger of Khanh Hoa and Ninh Thuan, giving birth to a province with Vietnam's longest coastline, rich in Cham heritage and forest ecosystems, ideal for coastal, cultural, and ecological tourism. This reorganization also allows for the development of specialized tourist hubs, such as ecological and adventure tourism in Dak Nong and Binh Thuan, or high-tech agritourism in Lam Dong.
The challenge of identity
When brand matters more than administrative name
This is where the real challenge and paradox of this reform for tourism lies: while administrative names change, the essential appeal and quality of a destination's experience remain paramount. Of course, a concern is that some iconic sites may see their identity diluted under a new, broader provincial name. But iconic sites like the rice terraces of Sapa, the alleys of Hoi An or the magic of Halong bay retain their authenticity and attractiveness on the ground.
The eternal Vietnam, in its authentic and unchanging charm - Mr Linh's AdventuresOur adventurer's verdict: change in continuity!
What to remember is that administrative changes are primarily for governance efficiency. They will not negatively impact the quality or accessibility of popular destinations. For you, fellow travelers, the immediate and tangible impact on your travel experience is minimal. The benefits (improved infrastructure, streamlined services) are mainly long-term and structural. This reform is an opportunity for Vietnam to become an even more competitive player on the global tourism stage. For us, and for you, it means a better organized country, potentially easier to navigate, without losing any of its authentic charm and stunning landscapes.
So, pack your bags, sharpen your sense of adventure, because Vietnam awaits you, more dynamic than ever!