Ho Chi Minh City has welcomed nearly 87,360 international visitors, marking a 16.5 percent year-on-year increase during the 2025 Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet, according to the municipal Department of Tourism.

The surge in international tourist arrivals also contributed to a significant rise in hotel occupancy rates, which soared by 44.4 percent year on year. 

Revenue from the tourism sector was estimated to hit some VND7.69 trillion (US$306.6 million), up 17.4 percent year on year.

A representative from a local tour operator told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Friday that the nine-day break this year had made it convenient for tourists to participate in both short and long trips.

A new travel trend has emerged during this year’s holiday, with many visitors opting to travel by car to localities connected to Ho Chi Minh City via expressways.

Tourists are increasingly traveling in small groups, with families or friends, and have been opting for premium vacation tours, as well as ‘free and easy’ tours, which include flights and high-end stays.

“High-end leisure tourism products, combining wellness programs, fitness activities, and meditation, as well as traditional Tet tours are drawing the sheer number of travelers,” said a representative from a local travel firm.

Since late 2024, tour operators have been offering various new tourism products at competitive prices, along with attractive discounts, while Vietnam is entering the holiday period for international tourists, resulting in the influx of foreigners during Tet, according to the municipal department.

High domestic airfares boost interest in overseas travel

Sky-high domestic airfares during the Lunar New Year holiday have led many travelers to turn to international destinations, where tour prices remain competitive, noted the municipal Department of Tourism.

Some countries such as Thailand and China have emerged as popular choices for those seeking more affordable travel options.

Traditional international destinations like Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the United States continue to be favored by local travelers.

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