The study shows that culinary experiences are increasingly shaping travel decisions, with travelers seeking more meaningful and personalised stays. Holiday homes have emerged as a preferred accommodation option for those looking to explore local flavors and food culture.

For Vietnam, it says, food plays a defining role in shaping journeys. From choosing destinations to deciding where to stay, culinary preferences guide travel behaviours, making holiday homes the preferred accommodation for those eager to explore local flavours.

The study also highlights changes in Vietnamese travelers’ cooking and eating habits while on holiday. 84% of Vietnamese travelers often choose travel destinations based on the local food or cuisine, and 48% of Vietnamese travelers share that the interest in exploring local-specific foods and cuisine motivates their food-related travel decision.

Booking.com notes that this passion for food influences accommodation preferences with holiday homes as a chosen alternative for this culinary exploration.

“The main reasons for Vietnamese travelers to choose holiday homes over other accommodation types are because they provide a more private and relaxed setting to enjoy meals (38%), greater freedom to eat without set mealtimes (36%), and the opportunity to host and share meals with friends and family during their stay (35%)”, it reveals.

According to the travel website, the cooking and eating habits of Vietnamese travelers whilst travelling also alter. They frequent local markets (​​80%), cook local dishes (​​33%), try new appliances (​​38%) and experiment with new recipes (​28%).  These behaviours highlight how travel becomes a way to explore food culture hands-on, blending discovery with authentic local experiences.

It also identifies four key trends shaping culinary experiences in holiday homes, namely The New Head Chef In The Holiday Home, Holiday Kitchen Personas, Trolley Tourism, and Portable Pantry.

67% of Vietnamese families use AI tools as part of travel planning: Booking.com

VOV.VN - According to a survey conducted by travel website Booking.com, 67% of local families are planning to use AI tools as part of their travel planning this year, showing a keen desire to adopt new practices to streamline their trips.