On 2/10, the British magazine announced 20 destinations in its list of "the world's most exciting winter destinations" for 2025-2026. Vietnam secured the 16th position on this list.

Time Out categorized Vietnam under "best for food", an ideal winter destination for culinary enthusiasts. Experts from the magazine praised Vietnamese cuisine as rich, accessible, and offering diverse price points, from street vendors to high-end restaurants.

In the 12-15 degree Celsius winter weather of northern Vietnam, hot pho stands as an iconic dish. CNN has repeatedly called Vietnamese pho "the world's best soup", while Lonely Planet included Hanoi pho in its list of "50 dishes to try in a lifetime".

Pho Thin Bo Ho with poached egg attracts diners in Hanoi. Photo: Hoang Giang

The British magazine suggests the ideal time to explore Vietnam is from October to February of the following year, when the weather is stable, travel costs are affordable, and many local experiences are appealing. The magazine recommended three destinations:

• Hanoi, known for its old quarter, intimate jazz clubs, and street food.
• Hoi An, with its ancient ambiance, Cao Lau dish, and lantern-lit streets.
• The dynamic TP HCM, offering a diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.

A Hanoi street in winter. Photo: Quang Anh

Time Out's list encompasses various travel types. Thailand was selected for its beautiful beaches; Cape Town (South Africa) is suitable for short city breaks; Tenerife (Spain) is Europe's warmest destination; Namibia appeals to wildlife enthusiasts; and Cartagena (Colombia) stands out for its art scene. Within the food category, experts rated Vietnam as a superior destination.

Time Out is a reputable travel and entertainment magazine based in the UK, founded in 1968 in London. The publication quickly grew into a global publishing system, now present in over 300 cities worldwide. Time Out focuses on content related to travel, food, culture, art, urban life, and experiential activities. The lists published by Time Out are based on traveler surveys, expert evaluations by its international editorial team, and current experience trends.

Tuan Anh (According to Time Out, CNN)