Travel to Vietnam During Tet

Question: Should I travel to Vietnam during Tet?

Answer: The decision to travel to Vietnam during Tet depends on your preferences and circumstances.

First of all, regarding transportation, if you plan to visit Vietnam during the Tet holiday, it is essential to book your travel services (airplane, train, car, etc.) well in advance. Tet is a significant time for family reunions in Vietnam, meaning that flights, trains, and buses are often fully booked. Additionally, you should anticipate higher fares during this festive period due to increased demand.

When it comes to accommodation, while there are many hotels available, it's still wise to reserve a room beforehand, particularly in popular destinations. The cost of accommodations may also rise during Tet, as businesses typically offer higher wages to staff working during this important holiday.

Despite these considerations, one of the most exciting aspects of visiting Vietnam during Tet is experiencing how locals celebrate their most cherished holiday of the year. Streets are beautifully adorned with vibrant decorations, including colorful flowers, national flags, lanterns, and twinkling lights. You’ll have the chance to witness traditional trees in bloom, such as peach blossoms, apricot flowers, and kumquat trees. Moreover, you can savor traditional foods that are unique to Tet, including Banh Chung, pickled vegetables, and various Tet-specific dishes. The overall atmosphere is serene and tranquil as many people choose to spend the holiday with family at home, resulting in quieter streets. Be sure not to miss the countdown to the New Year, where you can enjoy live music and dazzling firework displays, particularly at iconic locations such as Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Bitexco Tower in Ho Chi Minh City, and Dragon Bridge in Da Nang.