Why it seems like everyone in Australia is travelling to Vietnam

Australian travel to Vietnam has seen a dramatic rise, with the country now ranking as the third most popular Southeast Asian destination for short-term trips, surpassing Singapore and Malaysia. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows arrivals more than doubled from 246,000 in 2016 to 528,000 in 2024, while Jetstar reported a 30% increase in flights to Vietnam since 2023. The travel aggregator Expedia also noted year-on-year growth in accommodation searches for cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc. Content creator Georgia Quinn, who has visited Vietnam multiple times, highlights the country’s growing appeal, particularly in Da Nang, which she compares to Australia’s Gold Coast. She observed a surge in Australian travelers during her recent trip, noting new developments and a blend of modern and traditional experiences. ‘It’s such an amazing place to go,’ she said, emphasizing Vietnam’s ability to offer both luxury and affordability. Affordability remains a key factor, with the Australian dollar maintaining strong buying power against the Vietnamese dong. Event coordinator Mandy Lan spent less than $1,500 on a two-week trip, including Michelin-starred meals and custom tailoring, while Quinn budgeted $6,000 for her holiday. Dr Truc Le, a senior lecturer in tourism at Griffith University, attributes this trend to Vietnam’s ‘premium experiences at mid-range prices,’ aligning with Australian travelers’ priorities amid cost-of-living pressures. Authenticity and cultural appeal also drive the surge, with travelers seeking experiences that avoid overcrowding. Quinn found Ho Chi Minh City’s local designer shops and Y2K-inspired fashion particularly engaging, while Dang Duong, co-founder of Old Compass Travel, links the trend to Vietnam’s young population, with a median age of 33. Le describes Vietnam’s cultural identity as a blend of traditions, regional diversity, and a socialist-oriented market system, resonating with younger generations reshaping travel preferences. The shift reflects broader trends, with Australians opting for closer, more affordable destinations over long-haul trips to iconic cities like Paris or Venice. Vietnam’s growing infrastructure, including expanded flights and tourism developments, further supports its rising popularity among Australian travelers.