Food Shapes Vietnamese Travelers' Destination Choices: Agoda Report

A recent report by online travel platform Agoda has revealed that local cuisine plays a significant role in destination choices for Vietnamese travelers. The list, compiled based on searches by Vietnamese travelers as late summer approaches, features popular beach cities within Vietnam alongside leading urban hubs across Asia. Each destination on the list is recognized for its unique culinary attractions, which draw traveler interest. For instance, resort destinations like Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam are known for their fresh seafood and local specialties. International cities such as Bangkok and Seoul also gain high popularity among Vietnamese travelers by offering diverse and sophisticated dining experiences. These findings suggest that Vietnam may further leverage its culinary appeal to boost tourism revenue. In recent years, the Vietnamese government has actively promoted its food culture as a tourism asset, focusing on attracting both domestic and international visitors. Initiatives in the railway sector, such as heritage and tourism trains, are also being advanced to enhance travel experiences and stimulate regional economies. International recognition from travel platforms also serves as a positive catalyst for Vietnam's tourism industry. The inclusion of Phu Quoc Island in Expedia's 'Top 10 Island Destinations for 2026' is expected to enhance its global visibility. Under Vietnam's one-party system, economic growth and improving living standards are constant priorities, with tourism development being a key pillar. Cuisine is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture and closely linked to the daily lives of its people, making its influence on travel choices a natural phenomenon. While economic ties with China are strong, geopolitical tensions also exist; however, increased tourism can deepen economic interdependence.