Travel firms and booking platforms report a move away from conventional leisure holidays towards wellness-focused trips, tailored itineraries and experiences that strengthen family and social connections.
Amid tensions in the Middle East affecting global aviation costs, travellers are prioritising destinations within a two to four hour direct flight radius while limiting transit routes.
Popular choices include Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, China, Thailand and Malaysia, alongside domestic beach and island tours.
Companies such as Vietravel and BestPrice Travel said bookings for the holiday have been made three to four weeks earlier than usual, with volumes rising by 15 per cent to 40 per cent. Early planning is increasingly used to secure better prices and avoid sold-out flights and accommodation.
However, rising fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions have pushed up airfares and tour prices. Holiday packages are expected to increase by 15-25 per cent compared with normal periods, with long-haul routes seeing sharper rises.
Despite this, companies are working to stabilise prices for pre-arranged series tours, which are pre-booked through partner contracts and listed online, while customised group tours are priced based on real-time costs, said Bui Thanh Tu, marketing director of BestPrice Travel.
Industry representatives advise travellers to finalise bookings early, whether for short breaks or longer trips, to secure better prices and preferred itineraries amid rising demand and limited availability.
Online platforms such as Agoda, Booking.com and Traveloka also noted growing demand for meaningful travel experiences, particularly those centred on wellness and family bonding.
Among emerging trends, Japan’s forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is gaining traction. The nature-based therapy encourages visitors to immerse themselves in forest environments to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing.
Destinations including the Japanese Alps, the Kii Peninsula and Yakushima Island are recommended for such experiences, according to tour guide Nguyen Thanh Trung.
Cruise tourism is also drawing attention. Data from Traveloka shows rising interest among Vietnamese travellers in high-end cruise journeys, including regional itineraries.
The launch of the Disney Adventure cruise by Disney Cruise Line in Southeast Asia in March 2026 is expected to boost fly-cruise packages, combining short-haul flights with luxury cruises. These products are particularly aimed at families seeking all-in-one holiday experiences, supported by integrated booking options and promotional offers.
