The low-cost Asian destination becoming an Aussie travel hotspot

One thing will always be true: Australians love to travel.

The latest figures confirm this, as the number of Aussies heading overseas surged 8.2 per cent last year, per the AITA Travel Trends Report.

And though for years we've chosen places like the US and Europe for our holidays, recently there's been a cultural shift.

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North Asia has come out on top as a popular spot for Aussies heading on holiday.

Countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam all saw a marked increase in Australian arrivals for 2025.

Japan topping the list isn't a surprise - we've had a love affair with travelling to the island nation for a few years now.

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Solo travellers are flocking to this Asian city for one big reason

Vietnam, however, is increasingly becoming a fast favourite for budget-savvy Aussie travellers looking to explore a new place.

Outbound travel from Australia to Vietnam grew nearly 20 per cent in 2025, as holidaymakers set their sights on the country's beaches, mountains, bustling cities, and legendary food scene.

READ MORE: Things not to do as a tourist when travelling to Vietnam

Global tour operator Collette has also seen a marked increase in demand for Aussies taking trips to Vietnam - thanks to its proximity, value, and accessibility.

The great thing about Vietnam is that you can have whatever holiday you wish.

For laid-back beach resorts, head to Phu Quoc or Cam Ranh. If you like history, Hoi An is for you, but if you prefer bustling cities, try Ho Chi Minh. Sapa or the Ha Giang Loop offer trekking and mountain scenery if you're more into an outdoorsy-style holiday.

Phu Quoc, an idyllic island in the country's south, was named by Expedia as one of their Destinations of the Year for 2026, noting that global interest in the region is rising fast.

READ MORE: This city is the perfect introduction to a holiday in Vietnam

Another country that offers a huge amount of diversity for travellers is China, which AITA reports saw a 19.3 per cent increase in Aussie travellers last year. This is no doubt thanks to the country's new 'visa-free' travel rules.

Now, Australians can stay in China for up to 30 days without needing to secure a visa before travel.

From legendary spots like The Great Wall to bustling cities and plenty of hidden gems to explore in between, there's no shortage of things to do in China.

READ MORE: Planning a holiday to China? Here's what you need to know before you book

But Aussies aren't just hitting the hotspots. Though Beijing and Shanghai are major hubs, travellers are seeking out more unique experiences.

In a recent list of trending destinations for the next six months, four Chinese cities made the top ten: Guangzhou, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Shanghai.

Natalie Kidd, Managing Director of Asia for Intrepid Travel, previously told 9Travel: "What's really drawing travellers in is China's incredible depth of culture, food, history, and regional diversity."

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Surprise Asian country sees huge 150 per cent surge in bookings