Which destinations will Vietnamese tourists choose for the National Reunification Day and May Day holidays?

According to a survey by the National Tourism Advisory Council (TAB), up to 83% of participants want to travel in the next seven months, especially this summer as the COVID-19 pandemic has been controlled well.

Cat Ba island is also an attractive island destination in recent years (Photo: Booking.com)
Cat Ba island is also an attractive island destination in recent years (Photo: Booking.com)

This year’s summer tourism season begins with the National Reunification Day (April 30) and May Day (May 1) holidays which last for four days. Familiar destinations in the country such as Da Lat, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Sapa and Hoi An are still favorites with tourists.

Survey data on the most favoured destinations and accommodation for the upcoming holiday has been conducted by Booking.com, one of the world's leading digital travel companies, showing that nature-based tourism is still the most popular sector.

An island paradise leads the tourism summer season

With the advantage of a long coastline and convenient transportation system, sea and island destinations are popular during the summer holidays. This year, Vung Tau leads the list, following by Da Nang, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.

Front Beach in Vung Tau shimmering at night (Photo: Dulichso.vn)

Being famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear water, Vung Tau is an ideal destination for a short and low-cost trip in the context of COVID-19, as it only takes about two hours from Ho Chi Minh City to the locality by car.

Endowed with endless coastlines and beaches recognised the world over, Da Nang and Nha Trang are always in the list of favorite tourist destinations. Phu Quoc pearl island has become a “sleepless tourist destination”. The pearl has never been empty thanks to its natural beauty, pool and beach parties, famous arts events and family-friendly resorts.

Sao beach in Phu Quoc is always an impressive destination for travelers (Photo: Booking.com)

The trend of "Island-hopping" has been in vogue this year. It is not new but not too popular in the past. Domestic tourism has developed and “island-hopping” has become a favourite among young visitors. Ha Long is leading the list of destinations in this summer tourism season.

Ha Long leads the destination of "Island-hopping" trend (Photo: Booking.com)

"Island-hopping" can be considered a perfect way to explore the majestic limestone mountains scattered across the ocean at Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO-recognised heritage site. With 1969 impressive large and small islands, the bay has remained an attraction for both foreign and domestic tourists. At the heritage site, visitors have the chance to join energetic activities such as kayaking, hiking, canoeing, scuba diving and beach barbecues.

Avoiding the summer sun on misty plateaus

A trip to the highlands is a reasonable choice to dispel the heat of summer. This year, Da Lat and Sa Pa remain two highland destinations favoured by tourists.

With cool weather all year round and the peaceful scenery of the mountains and forests of the Central Highlands, Da Lat was named first in the list of destinations most chosen by tourists for the upcoming holidays.

Panoramic view of Dalat city from above (Photo: ST)

Meanwhile, Sapa is also favoured thanks to its beautiful landscapes and pristine villages, suitable for those who want to travel to environmentally-friendly destinations. Walking through forests and living in homestays with the local people have become more popular pursuits in the locality, especially for travelers who want to make a positive impact on the local community.

Sapa - misty city with resorts in harmony with nature (Photo: Booking.com)

Traveling to heritage sites and exploring dynamic cities

Hoi An is also listed among the favourite destinations for the upcoming holidays. Nestled by the riverbank, Hoi An’s ancient town is proud of its enchanting ancient features and rich history. This commercial port is more beautiful at night as the streets sparkle under the light of thousands of lanterns, leaveing an indelible mark on visitors.

Hoi An - the heritage destination is always on the list of top tourist cities of many prestigious travel magazines in the world (Photo: Getty Images)

The exciting Ho Chi Minh City continues to rank in the top list of destinations for the long weekend.

With its delightful harmony among creative skyscraper, ancient pagodas, bustling streets, shopping malls and historical landmarks, visitors can enjoy many activities in the city. Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism sector has launched numerous attractive tours and promotions for visitors during the National Reunification and May Day holidays.

Visitors will enjoy many exciting experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism)