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Vietnam and Thailand are two of Southeast Asia's most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Vietnam tourism has seen remarkable growth in recent years. Recorded that international arrivals reached over 12 million in 2023. Beaches and vibrant beach towns along the S-coastline are a major draw for foreign sun-seekers.
Tourist arrivals to both Vietnam and Southeast Asia have been increasing annually. Photo: Le Trong Khang
On the other hand, Thailand has long been a favorite worldwide, welcoming 3 times more travelers than Vietnam. Buddhist temples and pagodas are Western tourist attractions to local culture.
These two have many attractions and experiences to explore. Therefore, many first-timers to Southeast Asia often hesitate about which country to visit or where to spend more time. In this article, Asia King Travel will compare both options to help you find the most ideal destination.
Both Vietnam and Thailand are blessed with stunningly beautiful natural landscapes that make them top destinations for nature lovers. They have diverse terrains from high mountains low down to plains and beaches. Mountain peaks are just high enough for casual travelers to conquer, and many words you can think of to describe the beaches.
White-sand, blue-water beaches have attracted tourists to two countries. Photo: Five Stars Thailand
Historic sites that withstood the test of time have proven the rich history of both countries. In Vietnam, imperial cities transport visitors back to the glory days of the feudal era. Beyond famous temples, Thai traditions are deeply rooted in vibrant festivals, such as the water-splashing Songkran celebration and the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai.
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Many tourists are drawn to the unique cultural heritage
Furthermore, they are rich in cultural diversity. Southern provinces have some fusion of Thai-Muslim influences. Ethnic minority groups in Vietnam contribute to the fabric of customs. Travelers can have an unforgettable cultural experience by fully immersing themselves in the local customs.
Food is a big tourism draw for both, especially street food. Affordable yet delicious food has become an indispensable part of tourists' travel experiences. Pho, banh mi or pad thai, tom yum have become world-famous, but nothing compares to tasting them in their homeland.
Both Vietnam and Thailand have well-developed tourism infrastructures to cater to international visitors. In Vietnam, major tourist cities offer flexible accommodation options from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Thailand is even more robust with professional tour services in popular destinations. You may think all Thai people are doing in the tourism industry.
Every day, you'll be greeted with warm smiles from Thai people. Photo: This life of travel
Their tour companies provide endless choices for day trips, multi-day tours, and customized travel packages to explore. Whether you want to join a group tour or hire a private guide, both countries make crafting your dream Southeast Asia adventure easy.
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Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate. The weather can differ quite a bit between regions though. In the north, you can feel fully 4 distinct seasons. Down south it's warm most of the year. The best time to visit is probably during the dry months of November to April when rainfall is low and temperatures are comfortable pretty much everywhere.
Northern Vietnam often has long cold with rain at the beginning of the year, making travel difficult. Photo: VOV
As for Thailand, it has a tropical climate divided into three seasons - hot, cool, and rainy. If you want to skip the monsoons, aim to visit Thailand from November through February when it's sunny and dry across most of the country. The southern islands and beaches are an exception though, with October to May being the driest months down there.
Thailand is leaps and bounds ahead of Vietnam. It has been a major tourist hotspot with a well-established infrastructure and a reputation as a tropical paradise. The country has mastered the art of catering to visitors, they are just a well-oiled tourism machine.
Thailand has the highest number of international arrivals in Southeast Asia. Photo: Thailand Privilege Card
Vietnam tourism is still relatively young and up-and-coming. While the country has made significant strides in recent years, the overall tourism infrastructure is still playing catch-up. Some off-the-beaten-path places still depend on local services and lack of amenities. But in contrast, they will give you authentic experiences.
Before we talk about the differences, one thing that have in common is their affordable prices. Vietnam is generally more budget-friendly. You can easily find decent hotel rooms for USD 20-30 per night, while mid-range hotels in Thailand typically start around USD 50-60. Street food meals in Vietnam can cost as little as USD 1-3, whereas you'll likely pay USD 3-6 for similar dishes in Thailand.
Overall, a backpacker or budget traveler could easily get by on USD 30-40 per day in Vietnam for accommodation, food, drinks, and basic activities. A similar shoestring budget in Thailand would likely start around USD 40-50. For a more comfortable mid-range experience with nicer hotels, tours, and meals, Vietnam could cost USD 60-100 per day while Thailand might run up to USD 80-150 daily.
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You can be full for a whole day in Vietnam for just a few bucks. Photo: Vietnam is Awesome
So Thailand is still quite cheap by Western standards, but Vietnam offers even more value for money - allowing you to stretch your funds further or splurge on nicer experiences with the savings. Cost-conscious travelers will find it to be the more wallet-friendly destination.
Thailand serves tourists with luxurious resorts, vibrant entertainment activities like Thai massage, Muay Thai, and colorful festivals. They focus on beach and island tourism, as well as entertainment and leisure activities. But don't forget the Buddhist temples of the Land of the Golden Buddha.
The festivals in Thailand are full of life and energy. Photo: Lonely Planet
The neighbor on the east seems to be quieter. You can leisurely enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Exploring the towns, villages, going on boat trips, and cave expeditions are the most popular activities for tourists.
Both cuisines have countless dishes worth trying, but the cooking methods, flavors, and serving styles are distinctly different. Thai cuisine is a bold blend of sour, spicy, and salty flavors, with generous use of various spices. The dishes are often spicy due to the generous use of chili peppers and sweet and sour sauces.
Despite the different cooking methods, every dish is eye-catching
Vietnamese cuisine emphasizes flavor balance and subtlety. The use of fresh herbs adds a distinctive flavor. With the addition of fish sauce, lime, and chili peppers, but not overly spicy, the dishes are enjoyable for people of all ages, even on the first try.
Vietnam and Thailand both have their unique charms and appeal for travelers, but which one is the better fit depends on your interests and travel style. At the end of the day, you really can't go wrong with either destination. They're both exotic, beautiful countries with warm hospitality and plenty to explore. Contact Asia King Travel and with us do your research, and decide what kind of experience you want to spot on an epic Southeast Asia adventure!
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