Against this backdrop, the “micro-trip” trend - short overseas getaways - is gaining strong traction among Thai travelers for its ability to optimize both cost and time. Instead of expensive, long-distance journeys, Thai travelers are shifting toward shorter, more flexible trips, prioritizing nearby destinations that offer a complete experience without stretching their budgets.
This shift has positioned Vietnam as a leading choice in the region, thanks to its diverse tourism ecosystem, rich cultural identity, affordable pricing, and stable geopolitical environment. The growing appeal is evident: in Q1 2026 alone, the number of Thai visitors to Vietnam rose by 6.5%. Among the most popular destinations are Phu Quoc, Da Nang, and Sa Pa - each drawing visitors with unique natural landscapes and a wide range of leisure and entertainment experiences.
A one-hour flight… opens up a complete holiday in Phu Quoc
Just over an hour's direct flight from Bangkok, Phu Quoc is a convenient choice for Thai tourists to access a world-class resort space. The journey to "touch" Asia's most beautiful island becomes even more convenient as soon, Sun PhuQuoc Airways will officially operate a direct flight connecting Phu Quoc – Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport) from June 1, 2026, with a frequency of 1 flight/day.
This direct connection not only shortens the geographical distance but also leads Thais – souls who love the sea – to a completely different definition of enjoyment. In Phu Quoc, the sea can be "experienced" in many different ways. Tourists can take the world's longest 3-wire cable car to Hon Thom, admiring the panoramic view of Phu Quoc's beautiful sea and sky from the perspective of birds.
One of the most beloved destinations for Thai tourists is the "Instagrammable" town of Sunset Town with "no dead corners." With its Mediterranean architectural style, it boasts countless impressive photo spots, from the Dragon Staircase to the relaxing space at Apollo Cafe - a masterpiece by Bill Bensley with the idea of an "upside-down" Sunset Town. The town's beauty is also affirmed through iconic structures such as the Kiss Bridge or Sun Signature Gallery, creating a harmonious space between architectural art and natural beauty.
Coming to South Island (Phu Quoc) is coming to a year-round festival season
Not stopping at architectural masterpieces, Sunset Town truly “comes alive” when night falls with world-class multimedia shows. Especially, the combination of Symphony of the Sea and Kiss of the Sea - a Guinness World Record-holding show - has made Phu Quoc the only island in the world to light up the sky with fireworks twice every night, all 365 days a year. In terms of the experiential value received, every minute here is “worth every penny” for Thai tourists.
Discover a cool European space in Da Nang
Da Nang has long been a preferred destination for Thai tourists thanks to its harmonious blend of modern infrastructure and majestic nature. The highlight of this journey is undoubtedly Sun World Ba Na Hills - where just a 20-minute cable car ride transports visitors to a temperate zone, completely separate from the sweltering heat of Southeast Asia in summer.
Here, guests can stroll through the French Village, sip fine wine at the Debay Wine Cellar, and stand in awe on the globally renowned Golden Bridge. Thrill-seekers can enjoy attractions such as the Alpine Coaster, while collectors will be delighted by the world’s only castle-themed Pop Mart concept store.
Just a 20-minute cable car ride, visitors can "travel through time" to the temperate zone on top of Ba Na
Visiting Ba Na in April - peak cloud-hunting season - adds a magical touch, as mist drapes over the mountaintop’s castle-like structures. Visitors can also experience the 18+ cabaret show After Glow or join Ba Na by Night, where guests from around the world gather to unwind, dance, and celebrate around vibrant bonfires.
Discover the culture of Northwest Vietnam in Sa Pa
While central and southern Vietnam captivate with beaches and coastal beauty, Sa Pa and the northwest region draw Thai travelers with majestic mountains and the allure of Fansipan.
Compared to Doi Inthanon—Thailand’s highest peak at 2,565 meters—Fansipan stands as the “Roof of Indochina” at 3,143 meters. Thanks to a modern cable car system, reaching the summit is remarkably easy. In just about 15 minutes, visitors can ascend into the clouds, avoiding the strenuous treks typically required at Doi Inthanon.
At the summit of Fansipan, visitors can pay homage to the great bronze statue of The Great Amitabha Buddha, located at the highest altitude of its kind in Asia. Along The Alahat Path stands a statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara overlooking the valley below, alongside Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda, a temple complex reflecting traditional Vietnamese wooden architecture from the 15th–16th centuries.
Experience the feeling of "flying in the sky" by cable car, conquer the "Roof of Indochina" in just 15 minutes
Continuing the emotional journey is Ban May, located right at the foot of the cable car station. This is where the cultural quintessence of the Northwest ethnic minorities such as H'Mong, Dao, Tay, Giay... converges, allowing tourists to directly immerse themselves in the khen dance, watch artisans weave fabric, and enjoy highland cuisine. Especially, the end of April is also the time for the Rose Festival at Sun World Fansipan Legend , with millions of roses of rare varieties blooming vibrantly throughout the 50,000 m2 Rose Valley.
No need to fly halfway around the world or spend a fortune, Vietnam is an "affordable" yet classy choice for Thai tourists. From the islands of Phu Quoc, the European atmosphere in the heart of Da Nang to the cultural colors of the Northwest in Sa Pa, each destination offers a unique way of "healing". As the need for rest and rejuvenation becomes increasingly prioritized, short, flexible, yet valuable journeys like those in Vietnam are gradually becoming the preferred choice for Thai tourists.
