Application of digital data in assessing tourism destination carrying capacity in Vietnam

Rapid growth in tourist arrivals is placing increasing pressure on the carrying capacity of destinations in Vietnam. This study examines the application of digital data to assess and monitor destination carrying capacity across four dimensions: physical capacity, infrastructure capacity, environmental carrying capacity, and visitor experience. The analysis shows that integrating data on visitor flows, spatial distribution, transportation, environmental conditions, service use, and tourist behavior can support more frequent monitoring and early identification of overcrowding. Digital sources such as e-ticketing, booking systems, mobility data, environmental sensors, and online reviews can complement conventional statistics. The study therefore recommends shifting from periodic statistical assessments toward a digital data-based monitoring model to strengthen destination governance, reduce overcrowding risks, and support sustainable tourism development in Vietnam.