Escape the winter blue to enjoy a warmer weather in Vietnam

While North America braces for snow in winter, Vietnam offers diverse climates: cool and refreshing in the North, tropical sunshine in the South, and cultural treasures across the country. It’s a destination where you can swap winter coats for light jackets or swimsuits, depending on your itinerary.

Get better travel deals in Vietnam during Thanksgiving and Christmas

In North America, Thanksgiving is one of the busiest (and most expensive) travel times. Since this holiday isn’t observed in Asia, Vietnam stays in its shoulder-to-high season transition: meaning good prices, fewer crowds, and a relaxed travel experience, especially in the South.

During December, however, Vietnam does embrace global festivities. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, streets are adorned with lights, hotels host gala dinners, and Christmas markets add cheer. For New Year’s Eve, fireworks and lively celebrations take place in major cities, giving travelers a festive spirit without the commercial intensity of North America.

Enjoy different experiences for your winter holidays in Vietnam

From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Saigon’s lively markets, Vietnam surrounds you with culture, history, and flavors unlike anything in North America. Trek through northern mountains in Ha Giang or Lao Cai, wander the lantern-lit heritage town of Hoi An, or unwind on Phu Quoc’s beaches, each experience adds a cultural richness that turns a Thanksgiving or Christmas getaway into something truly unforgettable.

When is the best time to book your winter holidays in Vietnam?

When planning Vietnam vacations from the US or Canada, timing is essential. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year are peak travel periods. Flights and resorts fill up quickly, especially in popular beach destinations like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang.

In general, book your holiday package at least 3-6 months in advance. This not only helps you secure the best prices but also ensures availability at highly rated resorts. Waiting until the last minute may result in fewer choices and higher costs.

And what about your flights? Is booking earlier always cheaper?

Smart tips for booking flights during the holiday season

Thanks to Google Flights 2025 insights for U.S travelers, here’s more precise data to get the best and cheapest flights:

• International flights: Lowest prices when booked 49+ days ahead.
• Thanksgiving flights: Cheapest around 35 days before departure (24–59 days range). Booking in October often gives the best deals.
• Christmas flights: Cheapest around 51 days before departure (32–73 days range). Mid-October to mid-November is the sweet spot.
• Extra savings: Flying Monday–Wednesday is ~13% cheaper than weekends. Layovers save ~22% compared to nonstop flights.

Where to go in Vietnam for Thanksgiving, Christmas and winter holidays?

Hanoi and Northern Vietnam

Hanoi during the winter season is cool and atmospheric. The Old Quarter buzzes with life, offering visitors an authentic glimpse of Vietnamese culture. If you enjoy history and architecture, landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake are must-sees. A short trip away, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay showcase natural beauty, from limestone karsts to serene boat rides through rice paddies.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is a cultural gem, but you should be mindful: November and December bring significant rainfall, which can affect beach plans and outdoor sightseeing. While Hue, Danang, and Hoi An remain beautiful for cultural visits, they are not ideal for beach relaxation during this period. Even further south, in Nha Trang and Quy Nhon, rain often persists into December despite what many ads suggest, so sunshine is not guaranteed.

For those seeking reliable beach holidays, better options include Con Dao Islands with its sunny skies, calm waters, and luxury resorts; Mui Ne known for its dry climate and excellent watersports; and Ho Tram which offers upscale resorts conveniently close to Ho Chi Minh City.

Southern Vietnam

For travelers seeking warmer weather, southern Vietnam delivers. Ho Chi Minh City is bustling and modern, full of energy and nightlife. A day trip into the Mekong Delta introduces you to floating markets, lush waterways, and authentic rural life.

Especially when North Americans think about escaping the cold, Phu Quoc Island is the answer. With palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts, and calm turquoise waters, it’s ideal for Vietnam vacations focused on relaxation. Whether you’re into diving, spa days, or simply sipping cocktails by the beach, Phu Quoc is the tropical highlight of a winter holiday.

Are you looking for an all-inclusive package in Vietnam this winter?

For many travelers, especially those from North America, the appeal of an all-inclusive holiday lies in its simplicity: once you book, there’s no need to calculate extra costs for meals, transfers, or tours.

At Travel Sense Asia, our all-inclusive Vietnam packages are designed to cover every essential from the moment you land. Here’s what you can expect:

• Seamless travel: Private airport transfers, handpicked hotels, and domestic flights are all arranged in advance.
• Handpicked experiences: From a guided city walk in Hanoi to a sunset cruise in Ha Long Bay or a beach escape in Phu Quoc, every detail is curated for authenticity and comfort.
• Flexible pace: You choose between active excursions (trekking, cycling, day tours) or relaxing days at a luxury resort by the sea.
• Local immersion: It’s a chance to make your festive holiday more meaningful. Meet ethnic minorities, taste street food with your family, and explore Vietnam’s cultural sites.

Conclusion

For Americans and Canadians eager to trade snow for sunshine, Vietnam offers an unmatched Thanksgiving, Christmas and winter holiday experience. From Hanoi’s heritage streets to Phu Quoc’s pristine beaches, the country delivers a balance of cultural depth, relaxation, and premium comfort.

With Travel Sense Asia, every detail is handled, so all you need to do is enjoy the warmth, the flavors, and the moments that matter. Contact Travel Sense Asia today to book your personalized tour and enjoy a different festive atmosphere.