As Liberation Day and International Workers’ Day approach, Vietnamese travelers are gearing up for long weekend getaways. Accommodation booking platform Booking.com has released data on the most sought-after domestic and international destinations for the upcoming five-day break.
| Hanoi girl and Bombax Ceiba in the flowering season. Photo: Hue Chi |
According to the website’s Travel Predictions 2024, local travelers are seeking coastal escapes with cooler climates amid rising temperatures.
Immerse in Hanoi’s Verdant Canopy
Hanoi boasts the most extensive green spaces among Vietnamese cities, with ancient trees that have witnessed centuries of local life, becoming an intrinsic part of the capital’s heritage.
Visitors to the city can wander amidst century-old trees that grace the shores of Hanoi’s numerous lakes, creating picturesque landscapes and poetic vistas, such as those found at Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, Truc Bach, Bay Mau, Thien Quang, Thanh Cong, and Thu Le.
In addition to the legacy trees planted during the French colonial era, such as the Indochina dragon plum, African mahogany, and country almond, newer species have been introduced into the urban fabric, notably the royal poinciana, the giant crape myrtle, the freshwater mangrove, and more. Their diverse blooms add vibrant hues to the city’s streetscape at different times of the year.
| Hanoi in Hoa Sua or Dalbergia Tonkinensis flowering season. |
Beyond its verdant trees, Hanoi is renowned for its numerous picturesque lakes scattered throughout the city, offering locals and tourists respite from the urban hustle.
The city boasts over 20 major lakes and countless smaller ones, both natural and man-made. These bodies of water not only enhance Hanoi’s beauty but also serve as significant landmarks and tourist attractions.
Hoan Kiem Lake stands as the most iconic lake in Hanoi. Steeped in history and legend, tales of giant turtles and ancient swords add to its allure. Visitors can leisurely stroll around the lake, soaking in the scenery and ambiance. Numerous cafes and restaurants nearby offer فرص for refreshments and dining.
| The beautiful sunset over the West Lake. Photo: Doan Bach |
West Lake, on the other hand, is an idyllic destination for tranquility. It is also a prime spot to witness spectacular sunsets in Hanoi. Spanning approximately 500 hectares, the lake offers multiple vantage points to admire the vibrant hues of the setting sun, casting a warm golden glow upon the waters.
The sky transforms into an ever-changing canvas, adorned with shades of red, pink, and a myriad of colors, creating a romantic ambiance as young couples pedal swan boats across the lake. They often gather here to witness this captivating and serene spectacle, adding a touch of glamour to the city.
Seeking Cooler Climates and Coastal Escapes
Twenty-five percent of Vietnamese travelers surveyed expressed a preference for cooler destinations to escape the heat of the major cities. This trend is reflected in the surge of interest in Dalat, renowned for its refreshing mountain air and serene landscapes. Dalat emerges as the most sought-after domestic destination among Vietnamese travelers for this holiday period.
| The dreamy beauty of Dalat City in the central highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Booking.com |
Furthermore, 82% of Vietnamese travelers acknowledge that proximity to water provides a sense of relaxation, leading to a growing interest in water-related vacations. This trend translates into coastal cities dominating the list of the top ten most popular domestic destinations for the upcoming holiday. The central city of Danang, boasting stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, leads the pack, followed by Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Hoi An, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne.
The top 10 most searched domestic destinations for Vietnamese travelers from 26 April to 1 May 2024 are the major cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang, alongside Dalat, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Hoi An, Hue, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne.
Varun Grover, Country Head, Vietnam at Booking.com, emphasizes that extended vacations provide an excellent opportunity for Vietnamese travelers to unwind and escape the daily grind by embarking on refreshing getaways.
“The desire for travel continues to grow among Vietnamese people. Our Travel Predictions 2024 study revealed that 81% of Vietnamese travelers feel more fulfilled during their vacations,” he stated.
| The central coastal city of Danang. Photo: Booking.com |
Besides Vietnam, regional destinations within the Asia-Pacific are also gaining traction for this holiday period. According to Booking.com, Bangkok tops the list of most searched-for international destinations by Vietnamese travelers, followed by Singapore, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo.
The 2024 Travel Predictions survey, commissioned by the tourism company, was conducted among a sample of adults planning leisure or business travel in the next 12-24 months. The survey gathered responses from 27,730 participants across 33 countries and territories.
Meanwhile, the destination survey for the upcoming Liberation Day and International Workers’ Day holiday was conducted between March 17 and April 6, with check-in dates between April 26 and May 1 this year.
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