Why Vietnam Is Becoming a Hot Travel Trend — And Why Da Nang Is a Rising Star for Digital Nomads

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If you’ve been dreaming about your next great escape, chances are Vietnam has crossed your radar. With its mesmerizing landscapes, rich culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and affordability, this Southeast Asian gem has been climbing the ranks as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in recent years. From the historic streets of Hanoi to the breathtaking limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveler.

But beyond just tourism, Vietnam is quietly making waves among digital nomads—especially in the vibrant city of Da Nang. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Da Nang has emerged as a hotspot for remote workers looking for an inspiring yet affordable place to live and work.

In this post, we’ll explore how Vietnam is trending in global tourism, what makes Da Nang special for digital nomads, visa information, major air routes, and everything else you need to know to start planning your Vietnam adventure.

The Rise of Vietnam as a Travel Trend

It’s no surprise that Vietnam has become a major travel trend. With increasing media coverage, strong word-of-mouth recommendations, and a growing presence on social media, Vietnam is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Unlike over-touristed destinations that often feel overrun or overpriced, Vietnam still offers a sense of discovery. You can find yourself biking through rice paddies, trekking in terraced mountains, or sipping strong coffee at a lakeside café—all without the crowds you’d expect in places like Bali or Thailand.

Affordability That Stretches Your Travel Budget

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Vietnam is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Asia. A delicious bowl of pho can cost less than $2, and even luxury accommodations come at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. This makes it a favorite not just for backpackers, but also for mid-range and luxury travelers looking to get more value.

Diverse Attractions for Every Interest

  • Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands.
  • Hoi An – A charming town known for its lantern-lit streets and tailor-made clothing.
  • Hue – Home to ancient imperial palaces and rich Vietnamese history.
  • Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam’s buzzing economic center with vibrant nightlife and colonial architecture.
  • Hanoi – The capital city with a mix of old-world charm and modern chaos.

Each region of Vietnam has its own personality, cuisine, and cultural influences, making it an endlessly fascinating country to explore.

Foodie Heaven: What to Eat in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is a journey in itself. Fresh herbs, balanced flavors, and minimal use of oil make it both healthy and indulgent.

  • Pho – The iconic noodle soup, best enjoyed at a streetside stall.
  • Banh Mi – A delicious fusion of French baguette and Vietnamese fillings.
  • Goi Cuon (spring rolls) – Fresh, light, and perfect for tropical weather.
  • Cà Phê Trứng (egg coffee) – A Hanoi specialty with whipped egg yolk and strong coffee.

Explore Vietnamese cuisine in more detail here

Getting to Vietnam: Major Air Routes

Vietnam is increasingly well-connected with direct flights from major cities across the globe. Key international airports include:

  • Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Located in Hanoi
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – In Ho Chi Minh City
  • Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Ideal for central Vietnam and nomads heading to Da Nang

Direct flights to Vietnam are available from cities like:

  • Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, and Tokyo (short-haul)
  • Sydney, Paris, Frankfurt, and San Francisco (long-haul, depending on season and airline)

For budget travelers, regional low-cost carriers like VietJet Air and AirAsia offer frequent flights from neighboring countries.

Visa Information: How to Enter Vietnam

Vietnam offers several visa options depending on your nationality and length of stay:

  • E-visa: Available to citizens of over 80 countries, valid for 90 days with single or multiple entries. Apply via the official government portal
  • Visa on Arrival: Still possible if you apply through authorized agencies before arrival.
  • Tourist Visa Extensions: Can usually be extended for 30 to 90 days while in Vietnam.

Keep in mind that visa policies can change, so always double-check requirements before booking your flight.

Da Nang: Vietnam’s Hidden Gem for Digital Nomads

While cities like Bali and Chiang Mai have long been digital nomad magnets, Da Nang is fast catching up—and for good reason.

Why Digital Nomads Are Flocking to Da Nang

Da Nang offers a unique blend of modern infrastructure, nature, and culture. It’s less chaotic than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but still offers urban comforts like coworking spaces, fast internet, and a variety of cafes.

What makes Da Nang stand out?

  • Clean beaches like My Khe and Non Nuoc
  • Reliable internet and coworking spaces
  • Growing expat and nomad communities
  • Mild, tropical climate
  • Affordable lifestyle: Monthly cost of living for a nomad is roughly $800–$1,200 including accommodation.

Best Coworking Spaces in Da Nang

  • Enouvo Space – A modern, community-focused coworking hub
  • DNC Da Nang Coworking Space – Offers private offices, meeting rooms, and a social vibe
  • Toong Coworking – Stylish and centrally located

Some cafés are also ideal for remote work, including Wonderlust, 43 Factory Coffee, and The Cups Coffee.

Digital Nomad Visa in Vietnam: What You Need to Know

Vietnam doesn’t yet have a dedicated digital nomad visa, but several alternatives make long-term stays possible:

  • Business visa: With sponsorship from a local company or coworking space.
  • Investor visa: If you establish a small business or investment in Vietnam.
  • Tourist visa with frequent renewal: This option is popular but can be less reliable due to shifting immigration policies.

Some remote workers also use Vietnam as part of a slow travel strategy, spending a few months in each location and hopping between Southeast Asian countries with flexible visas.

Safety, Healthcare, and Lifestyle in Da Nang

Vietnam is considered one of the safer countries in Asia for travelers and expats. Da Nang, in particular, is peaceful, with low petty crime rates. That said, always use common sense—avoid leaving belongings unattended and be cautious when using ride-hailing apps at night.

Healthcare

Da Nang has a growing number of international clinics, including:

  • Family Medical Practice Da Nang
  • Hoan My Da Nang Hospital

For serious procedures, some expats prefer flying to Ho Chi Minh City or Bangkok.

Local Attractions in and Around Da Nang

When you’re not working, Da Nang is full of beauty and adventure:

  • Marble Mountains – Spiritual caves and panoramic views
  • Ba Na Hills – Home to the famous Golden Bridge held by giant hands
  • Son Tra Peninsula – Great for motorbike day trips and nature spotting
  • Hoi An – Just 30 minutes away, perfect for weekend getaways

Is Da Nang Worth the Hype?

Absolutely. Da Nang is a rising star that offers the perfect balance of work, play, and peace. It’s still under-the-radar enough to feel like a discovery, but growing fast with digital nomads who appreciate its charm, infrastructure, and lifestyle.

Whether you’re chasing your next adventure, seeking community, or just want to get your work done a few blocks from a tropical beach, Da Nang could be your next base in Asia.

Ready to Explore Vietnam?

If Vietnam has been sitting quietly on your travel wish list, now might be the perfect time to dive in. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Da Nang, it offers a little bit of everything—at a price that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re planning a short vacation or scouting your next digital nomad base, Vietnam is no longer just a travel trend—it’s becoming a lifestyle destination.

Related Post: Emerging Destinations for 2025: Where to Travel Next

Passionate about travel, personal growth, and online entrepreneurship, I am on a journey to explore the world while building meaningful projects in the digital space. Through Traveneur, I share stories, tips, and insights that inspire readers to embrace new destinations and opportunities, all while pursuing their dreams of freedom and success. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems, navigating the challenges of remote work, or crafting a life of purpose, I believe the adventure is always worth it. Let’s grow, travel, and thrive together! By the Way: I'm Maíra! Nice to meet you. :)