CaliToday (01/1/2026): As the first light of 2026 broke over Vietnam, the nation’s premier tourist hotspots were already teeming with activity. The three-day New Year holiday has triggered a massive wave of domestic migration, pushing accommodation capacity to the limit and gridlocking major highways leading to Sapa, Da Lat, Vung Tau, and Phu Quoc.
The Northern Chill: Sapa’s "Cloud Hunting" Craze
In the north, the biting cold did nothing to deter travelers; in fact, it was the main attraction. Sapa (Lao Cai) became a magnet for tourists hoping to witness frost or the famous "sea of clouds" from the peak of Fansipan.
Local authorities reported that 95% of hotel rooms in the town center were booked weeks in advance. The sheer volume of vehicles on the Lao Cai - Sapa expressway caused significant congestion starting from the afternoon of December 31, as thousands flocked to the highlands to ring in the new year amidst the misty mountains.
The Highlands: Da Lat Jammed
Central Vietnam’s "City of Eternal Spring," Da Lat, faced similar scenes of chaos and celebration. The cool, crisp weather served as a perfect escape for residents of Ho Chi Minh City. Iconic locations such as Xuan Huong Lake and the Da Lat Night Market were described as a "sea of people" on New Year's Eve.
Traffic on the Prenn Pass the main gateway to the city moved at a snail's pace. Homestay owners reported a full occupancy rate, with prices for last-minute bookings surging by 30-50% compared to normal weekends.
The Southern Sun: Beach Getaways
While the North bundled up, the South stripped down for the beach.
Vung Tau, benefitting from its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City and the Long Thanh - Dau Giay expressway, saw tens of thousands of visitors descend upon its Back Beach (Bai Sau). The seaside promenade was packed from dawn till dusk, signaling a strong start for the coastal city's 2026 tourism revenue.
Meanwhile, Phu Quoc Island cemented its status as a luxury hub. The airport was abuzz with activity as airlines increased flight frequencies to meet demand. Unlike the spontaneous road trips to Vung Tau, the crowd in Phu Quoc consisted largely of families and groups who had planned long-stay vacations to enjoy the warm, dry season weather and the island's famous sunset countdown parties.
A Golden Start for 2026
This explosive start to the year is a positive signal for Vietnam's tourism industry, suggesting that domestic travel demand remains the backbone of the sector. However, the gridlock observed at key gateways highlights the urgent need for continued infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the nation's growing wanderlust.