Amid soaring airfare prices, many travelers are turning to train travel as an alternative for the upcoming National Day holiday. Trains offer an appealing mix of affordability and the chance to enjoy breathtaking natural scenery, making them an increasingly popular choice for tourists.
Trains are an excellent option for those who seek a more relaxed and scenic journey, as opposed to the high costs associated with air travel. Popular routes like Da Nang to Hue, Da Nang to Quy Nhon, and Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang provide opportunities for tourists to explore the country’s natural beauty while enjoying a peaceful ride.
This shift in travel preferences is largely driven by rising airfare prices. Reports show that airfares increased by about 20% leading up to this year’s National Day holiday, which spans from August 31 to September 3. This has pushed many tourists, particularly those on a budget, to explore alternatives such as train travel.
Nguyen Van Hieu, General Director of Vitamin Tours, noted that high airfares have also affected air travel demand, with groups of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourists opting for road travel to nearby destinations instead. Popular destinations for domestic travelers this holiday include sea-side locations like Ha Long, Sam Son, Hai Tien, and Cat Ba in the northern region, as well as Vung Tau and Ho Tram in the southern region. Mountain retreats such as Moc Chau, Sa Pa, and Ha Giang are also favored by those looking to escape the summer heat.
This trend of shifting away from air travel is not just limited to domestic tourists. Rising domestic airfare prices have led many travelers to consider outbound tours instead.