As Vietnam prepares to commemorate the Hung Kings, a series of travel reports highlight the popularity of various destinations among local tourists. Booking.com recently announced its list of the top ten domestic destinations sought after by Vietnamese travelers during this holiday, which falls on the first weekend of April. This year, the commemoration aligns with a leisurely four-day weekend, encouraging many to embark on short trips to coastal resorts or explore local heritage sites.
Among the top destinations recommended by Booking.com are familiar coastal locations such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Vung Tau, which are well-known for their inviting weather and picturesque beaches. Da Lat, a mountain resort town, appeals to those in search of cooler climates and beautiful natural scenery. Noteworthy, the data reveals that Vietnamese tourists are not only focused on relaxation but are also eager to delve into cultural experiences.
In fact, Booking.com details that the most popular domestic destinations include Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Da Lat, Hue, Tuy Hoa, and Vinh. This variety highlights the diverse travel preferences of Vietnamese tourists, seeking everything from beach relaxation to urban exploration.
Varun Grover, Vietnam manager at Booking.com, expressed that "as Vietnamese travelers seek more meaning in their experiences, there has been a noticeable interest in destinations that combine relaxation, cultural exploration, and adventure significantly." He emphasized that the upcoming extended weekend for the Hung Kings Commemoration presents a great opportunity for travelers to create lasting memories with family and friends while discovering exciting new places.
On the international front, the desire among Vietnamese tourists to travel abroad remains strong. Destinations within the Asia-Pacific region are particularly sought after for their affordability, vibrant culture, and lively urban settings. This trend suggests a growing appetite for short international getaways among Vietnamese travelers, who often look for a mix of cultural immersion and leisure.
According to Booking.com, the top ten international destinations being searched by Vietnamese travelers are Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Osaka, Hong Kong, Ubud, Kyoto, and Taipei. This list showcases the diversity in preferences and highlights the importance of accessible options for international travel.
In a further boost to tourism in Vietnam, Hanoi's Department of Tourism announced an optimistic outlook for the first quarter of 2025, predicting a significant increase in tourists. The capital city is expected to receive 7.3 million visitors, reflecting an 8.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Among these, international arrivals are anticipated to soar to 1.85 million, contributing to 17.4% growth.
This influx of tourists is projected to generate substantial revenue, with total earnings estimated at 29,930 billion VND, marking an 11.3% rise since last year. Such positive forecasts come amid various cultural and tourism events that Hanoi plans to host, including celebrations for the lunar new year and Tet.
Additionally, Hanoi's tourism department is working diligently to introduce new tourism products and experiences that are aligned with the city's rich heritage and cultural significance. The initiatives cover handcrafted items in village exhibitions, sustainable tourism efforts in traditional villages, and community-related experiences based on the historical values of ethnic minorities in the region.
To further ensure the success of 2025's tourism goals, which include welcoming 31 million visitors, Hanoi is committed to enhancing both traditional and innovative tourism offerings. Efforts center around creating experiences focusing on heritage, local cuisine, and rural agriculture, thus reinforcing the city’s allure as a key travel destination.
Tourism stakeholders in Hanoi are optimistic that these concerted actions will position the city as a vibrant hub, attracting both domestic and international visitors alike. This strategic approach aims not only to boost tourism growth but also to ensure sustainable development in harmony with the local culture.
