Vietnam named top culinary destination in 2026 travel awards

gastronomy tourism culinary travel Vietnam cuisine travel trends food destinations

Vietnam has been named the top culinary destination in the NZ Herald Travel Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, ranking first among ten major destinations. The country outperformed established culinary hubs such as Italy, Japan, Thailand, and France.

Gastronomy is increasingly serving as a primary driver for tourism rather than a secondary necessity. Travelers are utilizing regional cuisine, street food, and local markets to better understand the culture and daily life of a destination. Experts suggest that with continued investment, Vietnam's diverse regional cooking and rich cultural history can further strengthen its brand as a distinct tourism product, attracting longer stays and increased visitor spending.

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