Attractive destinations for Southeast Asia travellers are Vietnam and Thailand. They both share their lifestyle, natural beauty, and culture, but one is more fitting than the other in specific aspects, either as a tourist, expat, or entrepreneur, depending on what one is in search of. Let’s explore five salient differences that create a departure between the two countries and help you things to know before travelling to Vietnam.
Comparison Between the Vietnam and Thailand
- Historical Studies and Cultural Immersion
Vietnamese culture is an integrated synthesis of French colonial influences, Confucian customs, and a strong past formed by freedom movements. Anyone may feel a strong bonding with Hanoi’s history by visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels or walking around its ancient streets. But Thailand beams with colourful festivals, grand temples, and active Buddhist culture. Vietnam offers a more authentic and real cultural experience that appears less commercialized than Thailand, with the latter often rendering its cultural attractions glossy and touristy.
- Natural Wonders and Diverse Landscapes
While they attract various tastes, both countries boast beautiful landscapes. The northern highlands of Thailand offer adventure and serenity, while the tropical islands like Koh Phi Phi and Krabi are picture-perfect. It responds with the tranquil Mekong Delta, the dramatic terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the dramatic limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. Compared to more popular tourist sites in Thailand, Vietnam’s natural attractions may seem like a hidden treasure, especially for one who highly treasures untouched appeal and fewer crowds.
- Affordability and Living Costs
Affordable lodgings, cheap transportation, and budget-friendly eateries all add up to make Vietnam one of the better bargains in Southeast Asia. Still relatively affordable, Thailand has gotten a little pricier of late, particularly in its main tourist destinations like Bangkok and Phuket. Vietnam has a lot of bangs without sacrificing the quality for longer stays or tighter budgets.
- Delights Culinary
Thai food has become famous worldwide for its strong, hot flavourings. Good old favourites such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, or Mango Sticky Rice could delight individuals. Vietnam’s more elusive cuisine does not often receive the fame it deserves, but it comes down to meals such as pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls that make a variety of flavours. Vietnamese food is usually light, fresh, and herb-infused, while Thai food often gives that spicy punch. For the foodie, the choice between them is a culinary conundrum.
- Hospitality and Lifestyle
The tourism sectors in Thailand are well-developed and easy to travel to, with luxury resorts and welcoming locals who are used to tourist presence from other countries. For Vietnam, however, the atmosphere is a lot more laid back and organic. For people looking for the authenticity of experience, its growing tourism area seems less ‘touristy’ and might be more of a discovery experience.
Conclusion
Vietnam and Thailand are ultimately like two sides of a coin different, brilliant, and just as captivating. Choose reliable visa platforms like Atlys to travel to anyone of them. Regardless of your preference for Vietnam’s subtle charm or Thailand’s refined elegance, both provide life-changing experiences.