For many, the shift is practical. Instead of long-haul journeys during peak travel periods, destinations within a few hours’ reach are becoming more attractive. A family from Tu Liem in Hanoi, for instance, opted for a getaway just 100km away in Ha Long, booking a premium beachfront hotel and a cruise to explore Ha Long Bay.

Their choice reflects a broader pattern. According to a recent survey by Traveloka, Vietnamese travellers are increasingly embracing what is known as the “micro-holiday” - short trips lasting two to three days but designed to deliver meaningful, restorative experiences.

During this year’s holiday period, demand for such trips has surged by nearly 40% compared to the same period last year. These journeys often centre on destinations that combine natural beauty, strong local identity and immersive activities rather than simple sightseeing.

Domestically, short-haul flights have seen a similar rise, with routes such as Hanoi - Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc and Hanoi - Hue recording increases of over 40%. Among destinations, Ninh Binh stands out, with search interest nearly tripling year on year. Coastal cities like Nha Trang and Vung Tau have also seen strong growth.

For international travel, nearby destinations in Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia remain the top choices, offering dense, varied experiences within a manageable timeframe.

Beyond distance, spending habits are also evolving. Travel companies report that customers are increasingly willing to pay for comfort, flexibility and tailored itineraries. Rather than joining standard package tours, many now prefer customised journeys designed around personal interests.

According to industry representatives, around 60% of travellers show interest in personalised, small-group tours without shopping stops. These bespoke experiences can cost two to three times more than conventional packages, yet demand continues to grow.

High-end experiences are seeing particularly strong bookings. In Ha Long Bay, overnight cruises and day-long excursions are nearing full capacity during the holiday period, with some services fully booked from 1 to 3 May. A typical seven-hour cruise, priced at around VND1.4 million (US$55), offers visits to iconic sites such as Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island and Luon Cave, alongside activities like kayaking and swimming.

In Ho Chi Minh City, helicopter tours providing aerial views of the city have emerged as a premium highlight. Prices range from VND2.9 million to over VND10 million (US$115 to US$400) per person, depending on the route and seating, yet bookings remain strong.

The trend underscores a deeper shift in mindset. Vietnamese travellers are no longer measuring a holiday by distance or duration, but by the richness of the experience - choosing to travel less, but live more fully in each journey.

Linh Trang