A survey released on 13/4 by Traveloka, a leading Southeast Asian travel service application, indicates a clear shift in how Vietnamese tourists are enjoying the 30/4-1/5 holiday.

Instead of choosing distant destinations, travelers are focusing on short trips of two to three days, with quick travel times, planned with purpose, prioritizing quality experiences over travel distance. This trend of Vietnamese travelers taking micro-holidays during the festive period has increased by nearly 40% compared to the same period last year.

Tourists boating to sightsee at Kinh Thien Temple relic, Trang An, Ninh Binh. Photo: Le Hoang

This trend is more evident as demand for nearby destinations with short travel times has surged. Searches for short domestic flights show an increase of over 40% compared to the previous year. Routes with the highest growth include Hanoi - Da Nang, TP HCM - Phu Quoc, and Hanoi - Hue.

What drives Vietnamese travelers to choose shorter journeys is not a simpler travel need than before, but a clearer understanding of a trip's true meaning. The leading destinations in current search trends share common characteristics: inspiring natural landscapes, distinct local identities, and experiences that offer rejuvenation rather than mere entertainment.

Accordingly, Ninh Binh has emerged as a breakthrough destination, with search volumes increasing nearly three times compared to last year. Coastal resorts like Nha Trang and Vung Tau also recorded an increase of over 40%.

Meanwhile, international destinations in Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia continue to attract travelers. Traveloka data indicates that this year's holiday period shows positive growth, with total searches for flights and accommodation increasing by about 30% compared to the same period in 2025. This suggests Vietnamese travelers maintain significant interest in international destinations that offer convenient access and high-density experiences within a short timeframe.

How travelers plan their trips also shows notable changes. Traveloka recorded a significant increase in early bookings and package deals (combos), combining flights, hotels, and tourist activities in a single itinerary. Today's travelers are using more information, are more intentional, and prioritize convenience, as all their needs can be met on a single platform before planning a trip.

According to Baidi Li, Vice President of Commerce at Traveloka, the tourism industry is witnessing a significant shift: short trips are no longer alternatives but are becoming the new preferred choice.

"Today's Vietnamese travelers clearly understand what they want from a trip, leading them to be more proactive in choosing destinations and planning earlier and more precisely", said Baidi Li.

Anh Minh (Via Traveloka)