The number of Australians taking short trips to Vietnam has more than doubled since 2016, as holidaymakers seek affordable experiences close to home. Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows Vietnam has overtaken Singapore and Malaysia to become the third most visited country in Southeast Asia for short-term travel, up from fifth place a decade ago.
Lifestyle content creator Georgia Quinn, who first visited Vietnam as a backpacker 15 years ago, says the country has long been underrated. On her latest trip to Da Nang, she noticed significant development, describing it as becoming 'like the Gold Coast of Vietnam'. She also observed many Australian tourists, reflecting the growing trend.
Dr Truc Le, a senior lecturer in tourism at Griffith University, attributes the surge to a strong alignment between Australian traveller preferences and Vietnam's offerings. With cost-of-living pressures, Australians are opting for closer destinations that provide premium experiences at mid-range prices. The Australian dollar also maintains strong buying power against the Vietnamese dong.
Affordability is a key draw. Event coordinator Mandy Lan, 25, spent under $1,500 for a two-week trip (excluding flights), dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and commissioning five custom garments for $250. Quinn budgeted $6,000 for herself and her partner, including flights.
Beyond price, travellers seek authentic, uncrowded experiences. Quinn enjoyed exploring local designer shops in Ho Chi Minh City, noting many are newly established. Dang Duong of Old Compass Travel links this trend to Vietnam's young population (median age 33), who are reshaping the country's cultural identity. Co-founders of Urbanist Travel highlight returning Vietnamese millennials and Gen Z entrepreneurs bringing international expertise to local businesses.
