Why Are More Filipinos Choosing Vietnam Over Local Destinations?

As regional travel becomes more affordable, industry leaders are asking what it will take to keep domestic tourism competitive.

For generations, the Philippines has been synonymous with island getaways. Destinations such as Boracay, Palawan, Siargao, Bohol, and Cebu have built global reputations for their natural beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.

Yet a growing number of Filipino travelers are asking an unexpected question before booking their next vacation:

Why does it sometimes cost less to travel abroad than to visit some of the country’s top destinations?

The conversation has become increasingly common across social media and travel communities. Promotional fares to Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and other ASEAN destinations are often comparable to—or even lower than—domestic flights to island destinations, prompting many travelers to look beyond Philippine shores.

For the hospitality industry, the issue extends beyond airfare. It reflects changing consumer expectations, regional competition, and the growing importance of value for money.

The Cost Comparison

A quick comparison illustrates why travelers are taking notice.

While airfare fluctuates depending on the season and booking period, roundtrip flights from Manila to destinations such as Da Nang, Hanoi, or Ho Chi Minh City can occasionally be found at prices similar to—or even below—flights to Siargao, El Nido, or Coron.

The difference becomes even more noticeable after arriving.

Vietnam continues to attract travelers with competitively priced hotels, affordable transportation, inexpensive dining, and a wide variety of attractions that allow visitors to maximize their travel budget.

For many travelers planning a three-day getaway, the total cost of an overseas vacation can be surprisingly close to a domestic island trip—and in some cases, even lower.

It’s Not Just About Airfare

Industry observers note that domestic tourism operates under different economic realities.

Island destinations depend heavily on air connectivity, with many routes served by smaller aircraft and fewer daily frequencies. Higher airport charges, operating costs, logistics, and seasonal demand all contribute to airfare pricing.

Meanwhile, destinations like Vietnam benefit from expanding international connectivity, intense airline competition, and sustained investments in tourism infrastructure that help keep travel costs competitive.

The result is a regional tourism market where travelers increasingly compare destinations across ASEAN—not just within the Philippines.

More Filipinos Are Traveling Abroad

Outbound travel continues to gain momentum.

According to industry figures, Filipino outbound travel increased by 11.6% in 2025, reflecting renewed confidence in international travel as regional destinations reopened and airlines expanded capacity.

The trend has continued into 2026.

During the first four months of the year, outbound travel by Filipinos grew by 14.6%, while Vietnam recorded one of the region’s strongest increases in Filipino visitor arrivals.

These figures suggest that affordability, accessibility, and expanded flight options are influencing travel decisions more than ever before.

A Challenge—and an Opportunity—for Philippine Tourism

The Philippines remains one of Southeast Asia’s premier tourism destinations.

Its beaches consistently rank among the world’s best, its hospitality is internationally recognized, and its diverse destinations continue to attract millions of visitors every year.

However, as travelers become more price-conscious, the conversation is shifting beyond scenic landscapes.

Today’s travelers also evaluate accessibility, transportation, accommodation costs, dining options, convenience, and overall value before choosing where to spend their travel budget.

For hotels, airlines, tourism operators, and policymakers, this presents an opportunity to strengthen the country’s competitiveness—not by competing solely on price, but by enhancing the overall travel experience while improving affordability and connectivity.

Looking Ahead

The growing popularity of Vietnam among Filipino travelers should not be viewed simply as a comparison between two destinations.

Rather, it reflects the realities of an increasingly connected ASEAN tourism market where travelers have more choices than ever before.

For the Philippine hospitality industry, the question is no longer whether neighboring countries are becoming more competitive.