Travel companies were unsurprised that Bangkok topped the list.
Pham Anh Vu, deputy general director of Viet Media Travel Company, attributed the city's appeal to its rich culture, diverse street food, and traditional year-end festivals such as Loy Krathong (the Festival of Lights) and New Year's Eve celebrations.
Travel costs to Bangkok tend to rise during this period due to increased demand. Airfares have gone up by 20-30% compared to normal, while hotel prices have surged by 15-25%, especially in central areas and near major tourist spots.
Photo by Unplash
Singapore, widely regarded as "Asia's shopping paradise," ranked second.
Events like Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay and the lively festivities along Orchard Road attract many visitors. Additionally, the growing number of Vietnamese tourists traveling to Singapore to visit relatives, including international students, has contributed to the surge, Traveloka said.
The cost of travel to Singapore has also risen significantly. Airfares from Vietnam have increased by 20-30%, and hotel room rates have seen a 30-50% hike.
Hotels in prime locations like Orchard Road are often fully booked, so travelers are advised to book early to secure better rates.
Prices range from VND 3-4.5 million per night for 3-star hotels, while 4-star hotels can cost VND5-7 million per night.
Photo by Hoang Phong
South Korea's Seoul ranked third on the list and has consistently attracted Vietnamese tourists over the past 4-5 years.
Tran Thi Bao Thu, marketing and communications director of Vietluxtour, said the city's appeal, particularly among young travelers, is driven by its extensive promotion through cultural activities, movies, social media, and celebrities.
"Seoul's picturesque autumn scenery is a major draw for those who love photography and social media," Thu said.
The autumn season in South Korea lasts from September to early November, with leaves turning red and yellow.
During Christmas and New Year, South Korea hosts large-scale events featuring snow viewing, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and vibrant shopping opportunities.
Autumn and the year-end season are peak tourist periods in Seoul, leading to a 5-8% rise in package tour prices, primarily driven by increased airfare and accommodation costs.
Photo by Nguyen Tran Hieu
Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur ranked fourth.
Vu from Viet Media said its appeal lies in its large shopping malls, the grand New Year's countdown event at the Petronas Twin Towers (pictured), and its bustling downtown area. The city's rich culinary scene, blending local, Chinese, and international cuisines, adds to its irresistible charm.
During the holiday season, airfares typically rise by 10-15%, while hotel prices increase by 15-20%, especially in accommodations near the Twin Towers and the city center.
Popular spots like Petronas and Bukit Bintang are often fully booked by year-end, so travelers are advised to secure tickets or tours early to ensure a smooth trip.
Photo by Unsplash
Taiwan's Taipei City was fifth.
A standout destination in Taipei is the Ximending District, known for its vibrant festivals and bustling shopping scene. The Shilin Night Market is famous for its diverse local dishes and lively atmosphere. Taipei 101, the city's iconic landmark, offers tourists stunning panoramic views.
As the year-end marks peak tourist season in Taipei, package tour prices increase by 5-8%, primarily due to higher airfare and accommodation costs.
Thu of Vietluxtour recommended that tourists either opt for a package tour or plan a free-and-easy tour.
Photo by Unsplash
Japan's Tokyo follows next on the list.
Airfares from Vietnam to Tokyo rise by about 15-20% during the year-end season due to high demand. Hotel room rates in Tokyo increase by 20-30%, particularly in central areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Popular attractions such as Shibuya Crossing and Asakusa tend to be crowded at this time, so tourists should plan ahead.
Photo by Unsplash
Busan, a famous coastal city in South Korea, ranked seventh on the list.
Visitors traveling there at the end of the year can join the lively countdown festivities at Haeundae Beach. The Gwangalli area offers views of Gwangandaegyo Bridge and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Regarding costs, airfares from Vietnam to Busan during the holiday season increase by about 10-15%. Hotel rates in Busan rise by 15-20%, particularly for accommodations near the beach and central areas.
Photo by Unsplash
Osaka in Japan ranked eighth on the list and is famously known as the "kitchen of Japan." The city attracts visitors with its iconic dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Visitors to Osaka can pose for photos at Universal Studios Japan, which offers lively entertainment and winter festivals. The Dotonbori area is well-known for its street food stalls and vibrant neon lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
Tsutenkaku Tower, another symbol of the city, provides visitors with panoramic views of Osaka from above.
Photo by Unsplash
Manila in the Philippines ranked ninth.
It offers a range of exciting year-end events, particularly along Roxas Boulevard and at SM Mall of Asia. Visitors can also explore cultural attractions like the National Museum of the Philippines and the historic Intramuros district, home to Fort Santiago.
For shopping enthusiasts, major malls such as Greenbelt and Power Plant Mall are worth exploring.
Photo by Unsplash
The last place in the top 10 is Melbourne in Australia.
A representative of Best Price suggested Queen Victoria Market as a destination not to be missed. Visitors can find local products, typical dishes and activities to welcome the New Year.
Airfares from Vietnam to Melbourne increase by 15-25% during the end of the year. Room rates also increase by 25-40%.
Central areas near major events such as Federation Square are often more expensive.
Photo by Unsplash
