With rising airfare costs, many tourists are choosing destinations accessible by car for the upcoming holiday season.
The announcement of a five-day holiday for Reunification Day (April 30) and Labour Day (May 1) has generated optimism among travel companies in Vietnam.
“Bookings are increasing daily. This holiday is expected to attract foreigners residing in Vietnam, especially those who haven’t experienced the Tet holiday. It’s an opportunity for them to enjoy a prolonged break,” said Dr. Pham Ha, founder of LuxGroup (https://www.luxgroup.vn), a luxury travel, and cruise operator.
Pham Ha noted, “Due to the lengthy holiday and surging airfare, many families are opting for short-term tours to nearby destinations, offering flexibility and savings on travel costs.”
Travel agencies report that although fewer people are flying compared to the recent Lunar New Year, airfares for the upcoming holiday period are just as high. With economy tickets expected to sell out, leaving only expensive business class options, many are choosing destinations like Quang Ninh, Haiphong, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Sa Pa, Moc Chau, Ha Giang, and Hoa Binh in the north, and Nha Trang, Phu Yen, Quy Nhon, and Da Lat in the south.
Cruise Travel: A Rising Trend
Many tourists are turning to 5-star cruise vacations as an alternative.
“Traveling on 5-star cruises offers a luxurious break with high-standard services, saving on airfares, and avoiding the hassle of check-ins and check-outs. It’s a chance to unwind with loved ones,” explained Ha.
Ha also highlighted that cruise tourism not only boosts revenue for travel and cruise operators but also promotes local economic development and opens up new business opportunities, citing Vietnam’s potential as an international maritime center.
Quang Ninh province is a prime example of localities investing in tourism and service development, with comprehensive transportation infrastructure and a specialized international tourist cruise port to accommodate large ships, facilitating cruise tourism growth.
The Halong City authorities are focusing on developing the wards of Bai Chay, Hung Thang, and Tuan Chau into a major tourism hub, with efforts to ensure a favorable business environment, public safety, and cleanliness, along with launching new tourism products and services.
By collaborating with cruise operators and travel agencies, Quang Ninh aims to create unique tourism offerings, optimize cruise ship use in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, reduce seasonal tourism, and achieve its goal of becoming a year-round destination.
“The province is exploring upgrades to marinas and awaits policies to encourage public-private partnership investments, maximizing waterway tourism potential,” concluded Ha.
