KOLs promote Hai Phong tourism

When real experiences become a powerful communication tool

In recent years, Hai Phong has developed a diverse community of content creators across digital platforms, focusing on tourism, culture, and local cuisine.

Notable examples include Dang Thanh Tung, who runs the YouTube channel Nem TV and the page Cang Tin Hai Phong, using storytelling that highlights cultural depth and everyday life. Nhat Trung, creator of the TikTok channel Dam Da Hai Phong, focuses on local people, food, and authentic daily stories. Meanwhile, Ngoc Anh, through Hai Phong Holic, develops content in the form of travel guides, covering everything from food tours to entertainment venues and hidden gems around the city.

Although their approaches differ, these digital creators share a common principle: prioritizing authentic experiences. Travel blogger Dang Thanh Tung believes that content only creates real value when it is rooted in genuine experiences and emotions rather than short-lived trends. According to him, a destination should be presented through meaningful stories that allow audiences to connect with the local culture and people.

TikToker Nhat Trung also argues that tourism content focused solely on introducing destinations is unlikely to maintain long-term appeal. When content is linked to personal emotions and real experiences, viewers can better imagine themselves in those settings and are more likely to choose them as future travel destinations.

Through their personal stories and experiences, content creators are helping reshape the way tourism is promoted. Hai Phong is no longer presented solely through official promotional materials but is also portrayed through relatable stories about local cuisine, streets, daily life, and its people.

The role of KOLs is increasingly connected with more structured communication campaigns. Tourism promotion content is now often designed around complete travel experiences that combine destinations, culture, and cuisine rather than focusing on individual attractions.

Ahead of the summer tourism season, the Hai Phong Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism launched a culinary experience video featuring singer and MC Chau Khang. The content follows a journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong aboard the "Hoa Phuong Do" train, combining the travel experience with culinary exploration to create a cohesive story about the destination.

Transparency to build trust among tourists

Alongside its positive promotional impact, the growing trend of travel reviews on social media also raises important concerns. As accounts with large followings can significantly influence public decisions, the need for accuracy, transparency, and responsible sharing of information has become increasingly important.

In recent years, authorities have warned about individuals exploiting online platforms for fraudulent activities, such as impersonating hotels and accommodation providers to collect deposit payments or using the guise of "reviews" and "experience evaluations" to persuade users to transfer money. Several social media fraud cases have been investigated and handled by law enforcement agencies, including one case that has led to criminal prosecution.

From the perspective of content creators, maintaining credibility is equally essential. Dang Thanh Tung believes that honesty should be the top priority for creators, as inaccurate information can affect not only viewers but also the reputation of destinations and tourism service providers.

Nhat Trung also emphasized the responsibility content creators have toward their audiences. "A video may attract attention for a few hours, but audience trust must be built over a long period of time," he said.

In practice, many content creators in Hai Phong actively verify information, prioritize firsthand experiences, and cooperate with local authorities to spread positive and accurate information. The Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Division of the Hai Phong City Police has also strengthened outreach efforts and engagement with KOLs and administrators of major social media pages to raise awareness of legal responsibilities and ethical information sharing.

As competition among tourist destinations continues to intensify, the influence of KOLs extends beyond their ability to generate attention. Their true value lies in maintaining public trust. When combined with responsibility, transparency, and professional content standards, these individuals can continue to contribute to building Hai Phong's image as an attractive, civilized, and worthwhile destination to experience.

Ha Linh