Cuisine has become a "key" factor driving the accommodation trends of Vietnamese tourists.

Cuisine has become a driving force for tourism in Vietnam.

For Vietnamese people, cuisine has long been an important part of cultural life. A survey of over 8,000 travelers in the Asia-Pacific region shows that this continues to strongly shape modern travel behavior. According to the “Taste of Home” 2025 report, 84% of Vietnamese travelers choose destinations based on local cuisine, while 48% consider exploring regional specialties as the main reason for their trips.

Interest in food also directly impacts accommodation choices. Accommodation options such as beachfront houses, country homes, apartments, or homestays are preferred because they offer flexibility in dining and the ability to cook with loved ones. 38% of travelers value privacy for enjoying meals, 36% want freedom of schedule, and 35% wish to cook their own meals or entertain friends during their vacation.

Another notable habit is that 80% of Vietnamese tourists often visit local markets or supermarkets when traveling, a trend that Booking.com calls "trolley tourism." Choosing fresh ingredients, chatting with vendors, or finding local specialties not only satisfies culinary needs but also creates a deep cultural connection.

Vietnamese people's cooking habits during vacations have also become more diverse, with 96% of tourists reporting that they cook differently than they do at home. Many want to try new kitchen appliances, recreate local specialties they've just experienced, or simply cook in groups to strengthen bonds. Common choices during vacations include BBQ, seafood, and hot pot – familiar options for gatherings.

Alongside the desire to try new dishes, the "flavor of home" remains crucial. Over 90% of tourists bring their own food or cooking utensils when traveling, from instant noodles and spices to snacks and mini grills. This demonstrates that Vietnamese culinary culture is linked to convenience, familiarity, and a spirit of sharing on every journey.

Holiday homes are booming thanks to the demand for personalized experiences.

A strong connection to local cuisine makes holiday homes a suitable choice for many families and groups of friends. Beachfront homes, country retreats, city apartments, and homestays are popular options, thanks to their open spaces, kitchen facilities, and the flexibility for guests to cook, host small parties, or enjoy local specialties purchased from local markets.

According to Branavan Aruljothi, Country Director of Booking.com in Vietnam, the “Taste of Home” report clearly reflects the changes in Vietnamese people's travel preferences. He stated:

"Cuisine is becoming a profound influence on how Vietnamese people choose and enjoy their holidays. Accommodation options allow travelers to experience local life like a resident, while still maintaining the comfort of being at home."

This data opens up many opportunities for accommodation partners to leverage the value of local cuisine and create personalized experiences that suit the increasingly diverse needs of travelers. Booking.com is committed to providing the widest selection in the global accommodation ecosystem.”

With the growing demand for travel that prioritizes freedom, flexibility, and personalized experiences, cuisine is no longer just a part of the trip but, in many cases, the "heart" of the vacation, helping travelers connect with and appreciate the culture slowly and deeply. In this context, holiday homes are predicted to continue booming, becoming an indispensable choice in the Vietnamese trend of food-related travel.

Article by: Hai Anh