Where is it better to relax in Vietnam or in Thailand. Thailand or Vietnam: where is it better and cheaper to relax. Approximate prices for clothes

Today we have one of the most anticipated posts on the topic, which is better Vietnam or Thailand? This question was asked to me for a long time, but I deliberately delayed it in order to move away from Koh Samui and Thailand, as well as to better understand and take off rose-colored glasses from Nha Trang and Vietnam. So, today we’ll talk about what is better Vietnam or Thailand for wintering and recreation.

We have been living in Vietnam for four months after living in Thailand for 5 months. We even managed to do it for another three months - this is the easiest and cheapest extension during our trip. Today it's time to compare these two countries.

We will compare Vietnam and Thailand according to our personal feelings of life on. Also we were on a package tour while working for hire in Pattaya. We will try to give our most objective assessment.

Let's start looking for an answer, which is better Vietnam or Thailand with a climate. Both of these countries are located in Southeast Asia, where it is always warm.

The air temperature fluctuates in winter from 24-32 degrees. Koh Samui has a more humid climate. When we flew there, it felt like we had jumped into the steam room of a Russian bath. This climate is not very suitable for people with health problems.

In Nha Trang, the climate is milder. It is more similar to the climate of our resorts in the Crimea and Sochi. A Russian person breathes easier here, but you still have to get used to the heat. Adaptation for some lasts 2-3 weeks. With us, it went to Koh Samui very quickly.

Approximately the same situation on Koh Samui. It rains in the same months, but the weather is hotter because of this, the humidity is stronger. Again, the rainy season is not to be afraid.

In Vietnam and Nha Trang there are also mountain cool areas. Vietnam has Dalat and Sapa. In Thailand, Changmai and Changrai. You can choose any climate and weather according to your desire.

Therefore, in terms of climate, I would not give a clear answer to the question of which is better Vietnam or Thailand for wintering and recreation. Both countries have equal climatic opportunities and are equally favorable for recreation and long stays here.

Sea and beaches

Vietnam is located on the shores of the South China Sea. The situation is similar with Thailand. But unlike Vietnam, Thailand is washed from the west by the Andaman Sea and such resorts as Phuket, Krabi, etc. already slightly different from other resorts in Thailand.

We lived on Koh Samui in the South China Sea. This is a very warm sea with a rich wildlife. You can visit the surrounding areas and Tao to dive and look at the underwater inhabitants.

The situation is the same in Nha Trang. The sea is quite warm from 24 degrees. In winter, the water is a little cooler than on Koh Samui and more restless, but this does not stop Russian tourists.

There is no tsunami threat either on Koh Samui or in Nha Trang. They are protected from them by the terrain and islands. You can safely travel with children, which cannot be said about Phuket and Crabs, where there were quite strong and destructive tsunamis.

As for the beaches, they are about the same. I liked that there are different types of beaches on Koh Samui. There is with ordinary sand and deep sea for swimming adults, such a beach as Maenam, for example, there is almost a bounty - this is Chaweng, there is with stones on Lamai. For children, a very shallow beach on Bang Por, where we lived. There are many options on Koh Samui. And for real beauty, you can go to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao.

The situation is similar in Nha Trang. The main beach is spoiled by tourists and with excellent infrastructure. Also a very good promenade for walking, which we missed so much with Alina on Koh Samui.

In October, a strong wave rises in Nha Trang and swimming with children in the center will not work, although you can of course. For children, a private one in the south of the city is perfect. Well, for beauty and white sand, I recommend going to

In general, the sea and beaches are again a fighting draw. Vietnam and Thailand have equally good sea and beaches.

Vietnam and Thailand, which is better for wintering is not yet clear

Insects, reptiles and diseases.

As for insects, then, of course, they are present everywhere. Ants will become your constant neighbors, so never leave anything from food anywhere.

Cockroaches grumblingly will move their whiskers because you have disturbed their peace.

Gekons are permanent residents of local houses and apartments. It is unrealistic to bring them out, and it is not worth it, you just need to get used to them.

Mosquitoes are the main carrier of various infections in Asia. There is a lot of this goodness in Thailand. We faced a huge problem in Thailand, where there are just a lot of them. Sometimes even mosquito nets and various protective equipment do not save.

There are no problems with mosquitoes in Nha Trang. Everything is in order here.

We did not notice snakes and other dangerous muck here. There are no problems with this within the human habitats.

So far, Vietnam or Thailand is in dispute, which Vietnam wins better, and we are moving on.

Housing

Vietnam or Thailand, which is better in terms of housing? Now let's compare our housing in Thailand and Vietnam.

On Koh Samui, we changed 5 houses in 5 months of stay until we found our home in Thailand. We are on the island, in and on the beaches of Bang Por, Maenam, Bangrak and Bo Phut. Those. we have a real idea of housing on Koh Samui. There will also be a post soon about the cost of housing on Koh Samui, which I wrote down with the director of one of the best real estate offices on the island. Subscribe to the blog news at the end of the post to keep abreast of investment prospects in Thailand.

For 14,000 baht, we finally rented our last and best house on Koh Samui. If we compare in dollars, this is about $ 450-500 with a communal apartment.

We had a chic pool for several houses.

Access to two beaches at once within walking distance. This is Maenam beach. It's a bit wild and deserted, but very cool.

The second is Bo Phut Beach with its famous restaurants and hangouts.

In Nha Trang we rented a studio in the center of the tourist area for $350. About $50 more we give for a communal apartment.

Housing costs are about the same, but the quality in Thailand is much better. Only for the sake of the pool is it worth living in Thailand

The pools in Nha Trang are a real problem. There are practically none of them, as well as private houses. There is an acute shortage of condominiums in the city, for example Pattaya. I hope the Vietnamese will resolve this issue. There is really nowhere to live in normal conditions.

As for lovers of cheap life. Then again, Thailand will be stronger than Vietnam. On Koh Samui, it is quite possible to rent a house with a pool, air conditioning and internet for 5,000 baht. At a similar cost in Nha Trang, you can rent a guest house. You understand that living in a house is much more comfortable than a guest house.

Therefore, in terms of housing, if you choose Vietnam or Thailand, which is better, I would prefer Thailand.

So we have a draw.

The cost of living.

Let's now compare Vietnam or Thailand which is better in terms of cost of living.

The costs are the same.

As for public transport, there is none in Thailand, except for tuk-tuks. In Nha Trang, there is normal public transport with very accessible scenes, and you can not buy a bike at all and save on it.

Taxis on Koh Samui are several times more expensive than in Nha Trang. The difference is almost three times. Therefore, transport savings in Vietnam are greater.

We spent about 12,000 rubles on food on Koh Samui at the old rate. Now in Nha Trang we spend even a little less, but at the new rate 1.5 times higher than before. Objectively, the difference in food prices between Vietnam and Thailand is about 20%.

How do you like such a vitamin tomorrow at the end of November for only 85,000 dong (180 rubles)?

We will make a separate post for more details on prices in Nha Trang. Subscribe to the news at the end of the post and wait for new releases.

For various entertainment: beer, barbecue, cafes and excursions, the costs are about the same - $ 150 per month. Alcohol, by the way, in Vietnam is 2 times cheaper.

We really liked Koh Samui, and in Nha Trang.

The cost of a visa for 5 months in Thailand cost us about $ 1,000 for three. In Vietnam, we spent a little more than $150 on a visa for the same period. We will write more about the visa below.

The result we have on the main items of expenditure on the trip with a small but quite tangible advantage is Vietnam. The difference is about 20% due to food and visas, but the quality of housing in Nha Trang fails.

Vietnam or Thailand, what is better in terms of cost of living is Vietnam.

Internet.

I am very concerned about the issue of the Internet when traveling. I earn at the expense of its capabilities, namely, thanks to the info business and the blog. Therefore, before I go to any country, I learn everything about the Internet.

In Southeast Asia, things with the Internet are not brilliant, but this is compared to Russia. In relation to other countries, the Internet in Thailand and Vietnam is on top.

In our house on Bangrak, the Internet indicators were around 20 mb and almost 10 for downloading. It was stable and did not fall. We even watched TV and movies on our plasmas.

In Vietnam, the Internet is less powerful, but quite good and sufficient for work.

Vietnam or Thailand, which is better on the Internet, is equally satisfactory, you can live, but I would like it better.

Safety.

On the Internet, they are often scared by the fact that Vietnam is full of various thieves. For the entire period of my stay in Nha Trang, I did not see any of them. In my opinion, it's just a joke.

True, you should not walk drunk at night and wave your purse and wallet. Guys in Vietnam are not rich. They can easily ride a bike and pull off your purse.

It is theft with the use of a bike here that is one of the most common, but I repeat, for 5 months of living, I personally have not seen a single case.

With security in Vietnam, everything is in order, but you have to be vigilant as in Russia. Do not leave the bike anywhere, keep money with you, leave passports at the hotel, keep an eye on bags and be careful when intoxicated.

In Thailand, security, especially on Koh Samui, is just great. I often forgot my keys on the bike and never had any problems. It is safe to walk at night. People don't hang out with drunks.

In terms of security, Vietnam or Thailand, which is better? I would choose Thailand. There I did not think at all about the safety of thieves and scammers. In Vietnam, you still need to be on the alert.

So we have a draw again. Vietnam or Thailand, which is better? While this question is open

Visa to Vietnam and Thailand?

By the ease of obtaining a visa, its extension and cost, the winner is immediately clear. It was just the magical accessibility of Vietnam that outweighed our scales, and we decided after Thailand to go not to Bali, but to Vietnam.

A visa in Vietnam for tourists no more than 15 days is issued upon arrival free of charge. But we flew here to spend the winter, so we pre-arranged via the Internet a visa on arrival for three months for only $66 for three. Read more about it

Mountains and waterfalls.

Zoos.

Ruins of ancient empires.

All this can be seen on various

So, what do you end up choosing Vietnam and Thailand? We got a draw. Vietnam and Thailand are approximately the same countries in terms of their level of development. But I would single out three reasons why it is worth going to a particular country. After them, Vietnam or Thailand will probably become clearer, which is better.

Three reasons to choose Thailand?

This is your first trip to South East Asia. After all, Thailand is a country of smiles. After visiting this country, you will fall in love with this region. The positive attitude of the locals inspires and inspires. They know how to create a welcoming and benevolent atmosphere, and the Russian heart and soul, tormented by a fierce cold, really lack this.
You need comfortable living conditions. Nice house, swimming pool, beaches and big shops nearby.
You are fine with money.

Three reasons to choose Vietnam.

And in this video, I shared our impressions of Vietnam and Thailand during the 9 months of travel. I also give an answer to the question: Vietnam or Thailand, which is better?

Vietnam or Thailand, which is better for wintering and vacations? Please write your answer to this question in the comments.

Subscribe to blog news. Ahead is a lot of useful information about life and earnings while traveling. Each subscriber has a gift.

Reminder that it will end soon. So far, Alexey is in the lead. He has only 8 comments, but he needs 20. Everyone still has a chance to win valuable prizes.

Well. and I also decided to participate in a class competition. This competition is organized by blogger Alexander Borisov. I want to win 10,000 rubles and a brand new phone, taking 1st place. Mine is already pretty tired of the flying life Conditions of the competition I will please myself and my girls with good gifts for the new year.

Since Turkey has slightly lost ground, the eyes of Russian tourists have turned to the east. Of all the countries of Southeast Asia, Thailand and Vietnam offered the most suitable conditions for recreation. And if the first has long been popular with tourists and attracts them with its exoticism, then the second has only now begun to gain popularity. They are very similar, so the choice of "Thailand or Vietnam?" very difficult for tourists. We will describe the differences between these countries.

Climate

Both countries are in Southeast Asia. It is warm here all year round and there is no pronounced summer or winter, but there is a rainy season.

Vietnam can be visited all year round. In winter, it is most pleasant to relax on Phu Quoc Island, in summer - in Nha Trang or Hoi An. It has been raining almost everywhere since the end of October.

In this regard, it is also democratic. It is most comfortable here in winter, when it is dry and not too stuffy and humid. This is especially true of such a popular resort as Phuket. In Koh Samui, it rains mostly in autumn, but usually this does not interfere with rest.

As you can see, in any month you can find a resort in Vietnam or Thailand, where it is better to go. So it’s worth choosing not between countries, but between resorts.

There is another important point - acclimatization, adaptation to the country's climate. Thailand is less hot, but tourists note that the heat is much more difficult to bear due to high humidity. This is especially true in summer and autumn when it rains. In Vietnam it is easier to breathe, the climate is reminiscent of the Crimean and Sochi.

Bottom line: The climate in the two countries is similar, but in winter in Vietnam it is not as comfortable as in Thailand, but acclimatization is easier.

Beaches

In terms of beaches, Vietnam is clearly inferior to Thailand. The water here is not so clear, there are many locals on the public coast, the infrastructure is less developed. Beautiful beaches, but they have to be reached by bicycles and there is almost no infrastructure.

The beaches of Thailand are cleaner and more equipped - except that in Pattaya the sea is rather dirty and not suitable for swimming. But you can get into a truly heavenly conditions. And in Thailand there are many more opportunities for outdoor activities.

In Vietnam, almost all beaches have a gentle entrance to the water, which is nice for families with children.

The water is always warm, but in the winter in the south of Vietnam it rarely warms up above +25 °C, while in Tai it is heated to +27 °C and above.

Bottom line: Thai beaches are better than Vietnamese in terms of cleanliness and infrastructure, but among the second ones in the distance there are very quiet ones, with untouched nature.

Attractions

If you are interested in ancient Asian culture, then Thailand is strong in this regard - there are a huge number of pagodas, Buddhist temples, Buddha statues, palaces and other interesting places. The nature here is also very beautiful, and excursions, according to tourists, are much better organized.

In Vietnam, after the war, there are few ancient monuments left, but there are interesting modern buildings. In Hanoi, you can walk through beautiful parks, and in Dalat, look at French architecture.

Bottom line: For exclusively sightseeing tours, choose Thailand, it is better in winter, when it is not so humid and stuffy.

Infrastructure

Accommodation

Since Thailand has long been a popular resort, there is a lot more housing here - a lot of hostels and hotels, even in the smallest resorts. There are various bungalows on the shore, many villas that are rented to tourists, including very close to the sea.

Along with a wide variety and high level of service come quite high prices. Often they are still lower than in Europe or the countries of the former CIS.

In Vietnam, the hotel infrastructure is not so well developed. They have already appeared, but in inexpensive places to rest is often not very comfortable. It is better to stay in three- and four-star hotels. Even in 5 * hotels, prices are generally pleasing, especially since they offer quite comfortable conditions.

Bottom line: For the most comfortable hotels go to Thailand, for inexpensive hotels - to Vietnam.

Nutrition

Thailand has a lot of cafes and restaurants, street food stalls, so you will always find where to eat. However, it is very spicy, and some tastes and dishes are so unusual that stomach problems can occur. Adapting to local food is not easy.

There are also many cafes and restaurants in Vietnam, but they often close in the evenings. Street stalls also leave early and do not work at lunchtime - the Vietnamese have a siesta.

At the same time, it is much closer to us - often it is ordinary rice with meat, fish, rice noodles or light soups. Sharpness in moderation. True, an unusual nuok-mam sauce, which is made from rotten fish, is sometimes added to food - this exotic is not for everyone. Fresh vegetables and fruits are cheaper.

Vietnam is especially famous for its coffee - there are ideal conditions for its cultivation. It is prepared using special aluminum filters, which gives it a special taste.

Food prices in both countries are about the same. Local food is cheap, but imported products like milk are quite expensive.

Outcome: There is more food in Tae, but it is unusual. Vietnamese cuisine is softer and less exotic.

Entertainment

If you want to have as much fun as possible, then you should not even wonder which is better: Thailand or Vietnam. In terms of entertainment, Tai is definitely the leader - even in small resorts there are discos and clubs, and in large cities they constantly arrange noisy parties, interesting and exotic shows. There are also many more water parks and amusement parks. And the adult entertainment industry is the envy of any other country in the world. Water activities and diving are much better developed, especially on the islands.

Question to a specialist: Which destination, Thailand or Vietnam, would you recommend for families with children and why?

Answered by Nikolai Zhuravlev,
CEO
LLC "EXPERTS OF BUSINESS PLANNING",
experienced traveler

“Thailand is more suitable. Firstly, there is a much more developed recreation infrastructure compared to Vietnam. Secondly, Vietnam has a completely different nature - the jungle with all the ensuing consequences. Once, on a moped, I barely passed a huge cobra that stretched the entire width of the road and shone in the moonlight so that I shuddered. Another time I was bitten quite decently at night by a swarm of some midges, so that for two weeks the bites did not go away. This has not happened in Thailand. And the main features of Vietnam, the freshest and cheapest seafood and wood products, are unlikely to be appreciated by children, since they are not yet mature.

Vietnam has become popular with tourists recently, and its specialty is still a calm and quiet family vacation. Noisy clubs and bars can be found here only in Nha Trang, interesting amusement parks and water parks are also only in Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. And the Vietnamese go to bed very early, so after 10-11 pm the streets become very quiet.

Such a meager range of entertainment will upset the lover of night parties, but if you are attracted to peace and quiet, then Vietnam is the perfect choice. And you can always go to Nha Trang for a few days and have a pretty good rest - the small distances between the resorts allow this.

Bottom line: For any entertainment it is better to go to Tai. If you are in Vietnam, then you can have fun in Nha Trang.

Visa regime

If you have no desire to apply for a visa, and you choose where to go, Thailand or Vietnam will suit you the same way. There are no visa formalities at the entrance to these countries.

A visa to Vietnam costs about $30 and is valid for 15 days. Placed at the airport after filling out a special questionnaire. In Thailand, upon entry, you will be stamped free of charge, which will allow you to stay in the country for 30 days.

Bottom line: You can enter Tai easier, cheaper and for a longer period.

Prices

A flight to Bangkok from Moscow will cost less than to Nha Trang. Many flights with transfers. Direct charter flights during the season cost about the same.

Prices for tours are also at the same level, in the region of 20-30 thousand rubles per person for two weeks. But a trip to Vietnam can be cheaper thanks to low accommodation prices.

Food prices in Thailand are higher, but not significantly. Goods and souvenirs here are also usually more expensive, but the range is wider. But a taxi in Vietnam is one of the cheapest in the world, so you can save a lot on travel.

Bottom line: Vietnam is cheaper than Thailand in almost all respects.

Language

In Thailand, almost all locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. Even in non-tourist markets, you can always find someone who speaks English and haggle. And in some resorts, for example, in Pattaya, there are even entire Russian restaurants and shops.

In Vietnam, the circumstances are different - almost everyone speaks only the local language, price tags in supermarkets and signs in English are not duplicated. This does not interfere with relaxing in a hotel on the beach, but if you ride around the country, you will have to learn a couple of phrases and get a phrasebook.

Bottom line: In Thailand, with knowledge of English, you will not be lost, and in Vietnam, when traveling on your own, you cannot do without a phrasebook.

What to choose

Travel to Thailand if you:

Want to relax noisily and cheerfully.

Appreciate the developed tourist infrastructure.

Plan walks around the resorts and communicate with the locals.

Do you want to get acquainted with the eastern sights.

Would you like to plunge into exotic shows.

Prefer the most comfortable hotels.

Want to relax on cleaner beaches and the sea.

Planning a winter trip.

Vietnam or Thailand: which is tastier?

Both countries have a varied and delicious cuisine, so picking a favorite is quite difficult. There will be plenty of exotics: in Thailand, these are fried spiders, grasshoppers and other insects, and in Vietnam - snakes, crocodiles, frogs, and even rats. So it's literally a matter of taste.

Fans of food "with peppercorns" should choose Thailand, where they mainly cook spicy dishes. Vietnamese cuisine favors sweet sauces and seasonings. The main dish here is rice noodles, while Thais prefer just rice.

Vietnam or Thailand: which is safer?

Both states are not included in. Despite this, the crime rate in them is much lower than in Russia. If you consciously do not look for trouble, then the rest will pass without incident. Robberies are rare here. Mostly petty theft occurs, which can be prevented by ordinary precautions.

In general, security in Thailand is a little better. This is noticeable even by the locals, who often leave mopeds with keys on the street, and shopkeepers do not even close the shutters in their shops. The Vietnamese behave more cautiously, from which we conclude that tourists should be on their guard.

Another danger is local wildlife. Ants, cockroaches, geckos are common, they can be found even in very decent establishments. In Vietnam, rats are also not uncommon, who are looking for a living in not always clean doorways. And in Thailand, the main danger is mosquitoes, carriers of many infections.

Vietnam or Thailand: which is cheaper?

Budget housing is definitely cheaper in Vietnam, while there is almost no difference in more expensive options. This applies to both self-renting a house or apartment, and hotels.

With food the same picture. Food in Thailand will cost 20-25% more. Especially noticeable is the difference in prices for locally produced alcohol, which in Vietnam costs mere pennies, even by our standards.

In Vietnam, public transport is more developed, so you can get to the right place much cheaper than a Thai taxi. The cost of excursions and other entertainment is also lower in Vietnam. But in terms of shopping, the championship belongs to Thailand, where there is more choice and more attractive prices.

Thus, with the same cost of vouchers, holidays in Vietnam will still cost less, due to upcoming expenses on the spot.

Vietnam or Thailand: where is it better to relax?

The tourist infrastructure of Thailand is better developed, which allows travelers to feel more comfortable. Road signs and signs are duplicated in English; the population, in general, also knows it quite tolerably, which cannot be said about Vietnam.

But the climate in Vietnam is slightly milder than Thai. Yes, it is also hot here, but the percentage of humidity is somewhat lower, which makes it easier to endure high temperatures.

Summarizing, we can sum up the following result of the comparison of the two countries. If you are looking for entertainment, beach holidays, diving and sightseeing, choose Thailand. If you are looking for peace and quiet, and the budget is somewhat limited, Vietnam will not disappoint you.

Updated: 2017-9-6

Sergeich74

158

We continue to search together with readers just in case. Although it seems that Thai double-entry visas are still working and nothing has changed for winterers. There was already a blog post about it, now about Vietnam, an even closer analogue of Tai. What is better? Sergey will tell his opinion.

Among the inhabitants of our country, and especially among those who have traveled at least once in their lives, probably every second has been to Thailand. And, if 10 years ago everyone considered Turkey a kind of summer cottage for Russians, now it is Thailand that has thoroughly become a leader in the number of tourists from Russia. But not only our compatriots prefer the “land of smiles” to many other resorts in the world, but tourists from all over the world are increasingly choosing Thailand as a place for recreation and wintering. And this is not surprising. Here you have eternal summer with the sea and beautiful beaches, kind and smiling people, and the cost of living cannot be called expensive. Everything would be fine, but recently the Thai government has been adopting more and more laws that make life difficult for the so-called winterers in every possible way. First of all, this is the abolition of Visarans. So now many of those who return to Thailand year after year again and again are beginning to pay attention to other countries in the Southeast Asian region. And one of those countries is Vietnam.

Vietnam cannot be called a discovery for winterers. Yes, and simple "package tourists" have long been chosen by many resorts in this country. But still, if Thailand has already been simply traveled out and even in the north of the country there are more and more “ours”, then in Vietnam you can still find places where a European tourist will be a curiosity. These countries are very similar, but there are many differences in them. And the longer you live and travel here, the more it catches your eye.

I have already managed to visit both Thailand and Vietnam more than once. I lived both in tourist places and in places where tourists (especially from Russia) are rare. So I can compare these countries as to which one is better for wintering or just solo travel. I must say right away that this will not be a comparison according to the type of who is better and who is worse. Personally, I liked both there and there! I propose to simply compare Thailand and Vietnam on those points that will be important for any traveler, and especially for a long-steer. And conclusions, where it is better or worse, do it yourself.

The visa issue in Vietnam is solved very easily. Up to 15 days, it is not required at all. If you stay for a longer period, then a visa is needed, but it will not be a problem to issue it. It is issued directly at the airport. This process will take no longer than an hour. But you can get it in advance, at the Vietnamese embassy in Moscow. The visa itself will be free, but you will have to pay the so-called consular fee. The visa can be single or multiple, for 1 or 3 months. The consular fee depends on the frequency and duration of stay in the country: from 20 to 125 dollars. You can stay in the country for a maximum of 9 months without leaving, since a 3-month visa can be extended twice. You can make a visa extension at any travel agency and it will cost from 30 to 80 dollars.

To extend a visa (as well as to obtain it for the first time) you need:

foreign passport, valid for at least 6 months;
2 photographs 4 by 6 cm;
an invitation to enter the country (made by a tour company or through special online services);
completed application form in 2 copies.

That is, as you can see, everything is very simple, though not free. Thus, winterers will have no problems with a visa. In addition, you do not need to leave and enter the country. Everything is done in any tour company and you can live in the country for up to nine months! And in Vietnam there is a completely visa-free territory - this is the island of Phu Quoc. If you fly directly to Phu Quoc and do not leave the island, then you can live here without a visa for as long as possible. At least until your passport expires.

But in Thailand with visas, everything is a little more complicated. Of course, if you have arrived for no more than a month, then you do not need a visa, but for those who constantly winter or live in Thailand, the visa issue is more acute. Typically, a tourist visa is issued for 60 days, and then extended for another month. There is also a double-entry visa with a total stay in the country of no more than 6 months, but in six months you cannot live in the country for more than 90 days (the 90-day rule does not work yet and it’s not a fact that it will work, approx. Geleosan). You can also get a student visa or a work visa. But many winterers preferred to go to the so-called "Vizaran" (exit-entry from Thailand to a neighboring state with a stamp in the passport and thus permission to stay in the country for another 30 days). Now it has become difficult with this - Vizaran has been canceled! Without a visa for 30 days, now you can enter only once!

Prices for housing, transport, food, recreation and entertainment

If you are a budget traveler, then this will be the most important point for you. Let's compare in order:

Accommodation prices

Of course, it all depends on the conditions in which you are used to living. The more expensive housing (this also applies to expensive hotels), the difference between Thailand and Vietnam is getting smaller. A rich man is a rich man everywhere, and in any country of the world they will try to extort as much money as possible from such people. Used to living in luxury apartments or only exclusively in five-star hotels - get ready to pay well! But more budget housing costs differently, and Vietnam seems to me more preferable in this regard. If we talk about hotels, then even in the resort of Nha Trang you can rent a room with all amenities, air conditioning, TV, daily housekeeping and breakfast for 400 rubles per day! Try to find the same somewhere in Phuket or Pattaya!?

Long-term housing in Vietnam will also be much cheaper than in Thailand.

Transport prices

In both countries, transport links are very well developed. Moreover, both urban public transport and intercity. In terms of prices, the difference is not very significant, but still Vietnam will be a little more attractive in this regard. And that's exactly what - Sleeping bass. It translates as "Sleeping Bus". In such buses, instead of the usual seats, there are lying places. That is, you can sleep very comfortably all the way. That is why these buses most often travel at night. There are, of course, regular buses with the usual seats, but the Sleeping Bus is more popular than the regular bus. After all, the price of a ticket for the Sleeping Bus is not much higher and is generally very affordable. For example, a ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang will cost only 250 thousand dong (about 370 rubles). But the distance there is 450 kilometers! And by the way, I was very surprised, but it turns out that Vietnam officially ranks second in the world (after the USA) in terms of the development and availability of intercity bus traffic!

Urban public transport in Vietnam is slightly inferior to Thailand in terms of variety, but not in terms of price. For example, a ticket on a city bus here costs only 5,000-7,000 dong (7.5-10 rubles). At the same time, all buses in Vietnam are air-conditioned and always very clean. This is being watched closely!

In Thailand, of course, transport is also not expensive and at the same time very convenient to use, so this item, in my opinion, does not play a big role in terms of choosing a country for a long trip. Both there and there everything is very convenient and quite budgetary.

Food prices

Again, a lot depends on where you eat. Lunch in expensive restaurants designed for wealthy tourists in both countries will cost a pretty penny. Well, it will be in any country. We are primarily interested in the cost of food in shops, markets and cafes of the middle price category. Speaking of stores, it is difficult to give a general comparison. Much depends on the specific product. Unlike Thailand, bread, pastries and cakes are popular in Vietnam, so the prices for this product are much cheaper. Also, yogurts and kefir are sold very inexpensively - a rare product for supermarkets in Thailand. Those products that are equally common in both countries cost about the same (in Vietnam a little cheaper). And what is not produced domestically is equally expensive (for example, sausage or cheese).

In the markets, prices are about the same, but this is taking into account the fact that it is necessary to bargain everywhere! In Vietnam, it is very difficult for a European to buy something at a low price on the market! Prices are usually inflated several times! However, this is more about tourist places. Somewhere in the outback, one often gets the impression that the Vietnamese are not capable of deceiving anyone at all. Only this applies to the very province. I've been to a couple of villages where there are never tourists at all - that's where the real Vietnam is!

In average cafes in Vietnam, prices are much cheaper than in Thailand. Of course, it is difficult to talk about the whole country, but if we compare, for example, the resort of Nha Trang and the well-known Pattaya, then the comparison is clearly not in favor of the latter. In Nha Trang for 400 rubles you can arrange a real belly feast. This money will be enough for several dishes, dessert and beer. In Pattaya, for the same thing, you will pay 2-2.5 times more! If we compare the province, then the prices there will certainly be cheaper, but unlike Thailand, in the Vietnamese province you will even eat up 100 rubles together from the belly!

Separately, I want to mention street food. In Thailand, I always liked it very much and I prefer to eat it. So, if you eat exclusively street food, then you can safely go to Thailand and Vietnam. And there and there everything is very cheap and tasty. In Vietnam, duck is generally a penny! For example, in non-tourist areas of Nha Trang, you can have a great lunch for just 15,000 dong (23 rubles!). For this money you will get a large portion of rice with sauce, grilled pork chop, a plate of fresh herbs and soup! In Thailand, macaron food is a little more expensive, but still, unless you're a total backpacker with a budget of $100 for 3 months, you won't notice much of a difference.

And another thing is alcohol. If you like to spend time with a bottle of beer or something stronger, then Vietnam is a paradise for you! I've never seen alcohol so cheap. And good quality alcohol. And this applies equally to both shops and bars. In Thailand, all alcohol is 3 times more expensive. However, this only applies to locally produced spirits.

Imported alcohol here and there is not cheap.

Prices for recreation and entertainment

Entertainment should be understood as visiting different bars and nightclubs. Here I will also include visiting various SPA and massage parlors, excursions and parks.

This is of course more relevant for ordinary tourists, and not for long-steers. But even those who stay in the country for a long time also sometimes want to relax and unwind!

Active nightlife in Vietnam (mainly for well-known resorts) will cost you less than in Thailand. This is mainly as a consequence of the previous paragraph (cheap alcohol). But all sorts of massages and spa treatments cost about the same.

Those who like to go on organized excursions will definitely like Vietnam. Excursion routes here are constantly evolving, and prices remain quite low. Of course, everything depends on the resort and the specific excursion, but basically the prices for the most popular of them are around 700-1200 rubles, while in Thailand popular excursion routes can cost 3-5 thousand and even more!

It is not expensive to visit various amusement parks in Vietnam. For example, a ticket to Vinpearl Park in Nha Trang will cost 500,000 dong (about 750 rubles). This amount includes a water park, an aquarium, an amusement park, a slot machine hall and much more! In many countries, as in Russia, only a visit to one water park will cost more!

In general, in terms of prices, Vietnam is a cheaper country to live in than Thailand.

Nature and climate

Thailand and Vietnam are geographically very close to each other, so the climate here is about the same. Vietnam also has a dry and rainy season and a very large part of the country is covered in true tropical jungle. But there are some differences. In Vietnam, it rains in other months than in Thailand and the humidity is not so strong here. And in the mountains sometimes it is even cool! So for those who do not like high humidity, but still love the tropics, Vietnam can be a very good fit. And for those who do not necessarily strive to live by the sea, but at the same time love the mountains, mountain Dalat is very suitable. The temperature here is always around 18-25 degrees. Mandarins and grapes grow everywhere. Mountainous Vietnam is something!

Safety

Definitely, both Vietnam and Tai are much safer in terms of the criminal situation than Russia! I think the whole thing is in the legislation, although the mentality plays an important role. But if, as they say, to dig, then I would call Thailand a safer country. Here, even the cars are not closed, and often the keys are left right in the ignition! In Vietnam, this is more strict. Thefts are not uncommon here. Therefore, at night in cities, almost no one leaves bikes on the streets, and cafes and shops are closed with roller shutters. Pickpocketing is also not uncommon. But for someone to just approach you on the street and “work out” a cell phone, this is a rarity for Vietnam. And if you follow basic precautions, then you are unlikely to become the object of theft.

In general, both countries are much safer than in our homeland (unfortunately).

Tourism infrastructure development

Well, Thailand is probably ahead of the rest! Everything here is done so that the tourist is comfortable. All inscriptions are duplicated in English, you can find Tourist Information everywhere. Everything is very convenient and understandable, even in the outback. And what about Vietnam? In Vietnam, in this regard, there is simply an abyss between tourist cities such as Nha Trang, Mui Ne or Saigon and a non-tourist province. Somewhere in Nha Trang you don’t even need to know English, many locals understand and speak Russian well! Everywhere you will be helped and explained what, how and where. But it’s worth climbing somewhere inland, away from the main resorts, and you can’t do without ingenuity. They will look at you the way they would look at an African native somewhere in a remote Siberian village))) Here, almost no one knows even two words in English or Russian, everywhere everything is in Vietnamese and nothing is clear. But that makes it even more interesting!

Thailand is the land of smiles! Our compatriots have always been amazed that in Tai the locals are always smiling, always polite and ready to help even a stranger. For many, this is the main reason why they go to Thailand again and again. Many long-steers who live in Thailand long enough say that Thais are not so white and fluffy, but still a smile and a sincere desire to help a stranger will always bribe.

But in Vietnam, you can often encounter complete indifference to you. And there are much fewer smiling Vietnamese on the streets of cities. In this regard, Vietnam is more like Russia. But still, the mentality and warm climate leave their mark and outwardly the Vietnamese look more cheerful than the Russians. This is especially noticeable to those of our tourists who have never been to Thailand and flew to Vietnam for the first time. To me, after three trips to Tai, the Vietnamese even seemed somehow gloomy, but only at first. In general, for the most part, they are very good people.

Cleanliness and tidiness

Separately, I would like to say about the level of cleanliness and order on the streets of Vietnamese cities. In general, many people who have never traveled to Asia have an opinion that Asian cities are filled with mountains of garbage and rats run everywhere. Well, Vietnam fits that description very well. Not to say that everything is very sad, and we also have problems with this in our homeland, but not to find a single trash can even in large cities is something! All rubbish is thrown right on the side of the road and local fat rats eat this rubbish with pleasure! There are a lot of rats in the cities of Vietnam! After a week, I even got used to not paying attention to them. In general, the garbage is, of course, removed by special services late at night, but by this time the food waste has time to go rotten in the heat, so in some places the smell is amazing))) Personally, I don’t pay much attention to this, but true aesthetes of Vietnam can simply shock!

Even in Vietnam, you need to be more careful if you buy something from street food. The Vietnamese do not follow the freshness of food and hygiene in its preparation. You can often see locals preparing food with very dirty hands or using perishable food that has been in the heat all day.

But Thailand, from an aesthetic point of view, is of course a more civilized country. As a rule, in cities everything is clean and tidy. Yes, and ordinary Thais are much more clean people.

Summary

That's probably all the points on which I would like to compare Vietnam and Thailand. As you can see, in many ways these countries are very similar. In Vietnam, everything is going to the fact that everything here is becoming the same as in Thailand. And if you look for some other country (except Thailand) for wintering or just for a long trip, but you don’t want to radically change the situation, then Vietnam is very well suited for this.

However, it is not for nothing that many long-steers will not exchange Thailand for any other country. Having traveled around both of these countries for a long time, having visited both large cities and the outback, I am more drawn to return to Thailand! And not because Vietnam is bad. It’s just that in Thailand everything is somehow more convenient, clearer and simpler. Of course, if you live somewhere far away from civilization and people (in a remote village or on a small island), then you won’t feel the difference, but in cities the contrast is felt more strongly. But, if you still look for some alternative to Thailand, then Vietnam is better suited for this!

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- Oleg Lazhechnikov

The countries of Southeast Asia are becoming more and more popular with Russian tourists. This is due to the relatively mild climate and numerous attractions. Among the countries of this region, Thailand and Vietnam stand out. They are located close to each other, have similar cultural traditions and the same climate. All this creates difficulties for tourists when choosing a place to stay. Thailand or Vietnam - which country to prefer? This is discussed in this article.

An important factor when choosing a place to visit as part of a tourist trip is the possibility and duration of stay without registration, this period is thirty days. There are only fifteen in Vietnam. Flight time to both countries is up to nine hours.

In Thailand there is more developed than in Vietnam. In terms of the number of attractions, Thailand and Vietnam are not inferior to each other.

As in any country, Vietnam and Thailand have their advantages and disadvantages. Let's consider some of them.

Climate

Climatic conditions in both countries are similar. The best time to visit is from June to September. Thailand or also successfully receives tourists. However, the region is warm all year round. The rainy season will create certain inconveniences for tourists. Both countries are attractive for beach holidays. Average temperatures at the peak of the tourist season reach +32°C. Hot weather in Thailand is more difficult to tolerate due to high humidity.

In Vietnam, during the winter season, the influence of the monsoons is felt. Therefore, the temperature during this period can reach +5°C. According to this indicator, it is difficult to determine where it is better to go, Vietnam or Thailand to choose. Since the countries are located almost at the same latitude and have a similar climate. There are other, more important selection criteria.

Beaches

Thailand is the most suitable place for connoisseurs of a comfortable beach holiday with its unforgettable beaches and numerous resorts equipped with everything you need. The beaches in this country are distinguished by a sandy bottom and the purity of the sea. The only downside is overcrowding with tourists during the peak season. The number of places for swimming in Thailand reaches more than a hundred. The cleanest are those that are on the islands. The beaches in Vietnam are somewhat smaller, however, they are in no way inferior to Thai ones. Sandy coasts in both countries have a gentle entrance. The beaches located on the islands are surrounded by rocks and located in bays. Thanks to this, they are protected from waves and wind and are calm and quiet corners for relaxation.

Vietnamese beaches are characterized by perfectly white sand and clear blue water. They are a great place to relax with children. Local beaches have fewer opportunities for water activities, but water sports enthusiasts can still find some worthy options for themselves.

Where is cheaper? Vietnam or Thailand

An important, and for some, the determining factor in choosing a country for recreation is the cost of staying at the resort. In Thailand and Vietnam, tourists have the opportunity to choose the most suitable holiday options for themselves, based on their financial capabilities. You can use the services of travel agencies and go on vacation on a package tour. It is also possible to make an independent trip. One of the options for staying at the resort can be staying in a rented bungalow. Let's consider various pricing options for Thailand.

The cost of any tourist trip consists of the price of air tickets, the cost of recreation, the purchase of souvenirs and excursion services.

The purchase of air tickets is a mandatory item of expenditure, since it is simply impossible to get to these countries in any other way. It is better to book tickets in advance. Their cost varies according to the class and level of comfort during the flight. The higher it is, the more expensive the airfare. Since the distance and flight time to Vietnam and Thailand are approximately the same, the airfare will be the same.

The second significant item of expenditure is the cost of living. Depending on financial capabilities, accommodation can be both very expensive and relatively budget. For example, staying in a deluxe hotel room or in a separate bungalow will cost significantly more than staying in an economy class hotel.

The cost of food, visiting entertainment in Vietnam is lower compared to Thailand. Sometimes they are much cheaper than in Thailand. Of great importance is the choice of places to eat and rest. Individual excursions to local attractions will cost more than similar group activities. In terms of cost savings, independent travel around the country is promising.

Roads and leisure

For such trips on a rented vehicle, Thailand is best suited. The quality of roads in this country is somewhat better than in Vietnam. Therefore, it is better not to book tours to Thailand in travel agencies. It will be much cheaper to travel around the country on your own. There is also a more developed network of shops, cafes and restaurants and all kinds of entertainment centers. Opportunities to have fun at night in Vietnam for tourists are more limited. After midnight, life stops here. Due to the habit of the population to go to bed early, it is very problematic to find a working grocery store.

Thailand in this regard is more preferable as a leisure destination. does not stop here until the morning. The list of entertainment for tourists is also more extensive. In Thailand, you can not only relax, but also improve your health.

Medicine

Where to go for health, which country to choose - Thailand or Vietnam? Medical care in these two countries has significant differences in terms of prices for treatment. In Thailand, the cost of visiting a doctor in a public or private clinic is up to $40. Similar services in Vietnam will cost a little less. However, it all depends on the severity of the disease or injury. A necessary condition for obtaining high-quality medical services is that the tourist has medical insurance. In Vietnam, there may be some difficulties in obtaining medical care due to the lack of knowledge of English by local doctors. However, despite some inconveniences, the quality of medical care in both countries is approximately the same.

Accommodation

The cost of living and its comfort in hotels in Thailand and Vietnam are about the same. Vietnam, however, has a slight advantage in terms of cheap hotel accommodation. A stay in one of the hotels in the capital of Vietnam - the city of Hanoi - will cost about five dollars cheaper than the cost of a vacation in a similar establishment in Thai cities popular among tourists. Therefore, travel agencies sometimes offer incomparably cheap tours to Vietnam. This is due to the fact that in this country you can save a lot on housing.

Undersea world

Leisure opportunities are of great importance to travelers. Staying in Vietnam and Thailand is the most promising for diving. Thailand wins somewhat in terms of the diversity of marine life and the number of places recommended for diving. The marine fauna of Vietnamese waters is less diverse, however, here divers can find a lot of interesting things for themselves.

Local population

For tourists, when choosing a vacation spot, the friendliness of the local population towards visitors is of no small importance. If we compare Vietnam / Thailand on this basis, then we can say that the inhabitants of both countries are equally friendly to guests. The hospitality of the locals is based on the profitability of the tourism industry for the economy. Thais are more restrained and do not reveal their feelings and emotions to tourists. The Vietnamese are more emotional. In addition, the joint historical past of the countries affects the attitude towards Russians, namely, the assistance provided by the USSR to Vietnam in repelling American aggression is not forgotten.

Transport

In Thailand and Vietnam, transport links between cities are quite developed. You can get to any corner by bus or by plane. The most common vehicle in both countries is a bike available for rent by tourists.

But which country should gastronomic gourmets choose, Vietnam or Thailand? Where is the best food?

Nutrition

National cuisines in both countries are distinguished by their originality and abundance of exotic and incomprehensible dishes for a Russian-speaking tourist. Frogs and various insects are widely used as products. Local national dishes are usually nutritious and spicy. In this regard, the masterpieces of Thai cuisine are more famous. Food in Vietnam is sweet due to the use of a variety of sauces and seasonings. Therefore, for lovers of sweet tastes, the choice is obvious according to this criterion. Thailand or Vietnam? For them, this issue is irrelevant.

living creatures

Traveling to Vietnam or Thailand can be overshadowed by the local fauna. One specific feature of both countries is the abundance of tropical insects (eg lizards). In Vietnam, in addition, they do not particularly care about cleanliness. Thanks to street garbage dumps in cities, a tourist can meet with numerous rats and cockroaches. Mosquitoes, which are carriers of dangerous diseases, pose a great danger in Vietnam. Therefore, before traveling to this country, it is necessary to make all the necessary vaccinations. Agencies offering tours to Thailand and Vietnam strongly recommend this. Upon arrival, you must carefully observe the basic rules of personal hygiene. You should not eat local food if its appearance and taste are incomprehensible or cause unpleasant associations for the tourist. It should be remembered that not everything that is familiar to the local population is suitable for a tourist who is used to a completely different lifestyle. The comfort of the stay and the impressions received during the rest depend on the observance of the rules of hygiene.

Attractions

The cultural heritage of a particular country can also influence the choice of a tourist. Thailand or Vietnam? What is the culture of these countries? Both states have an ancient history and are distinguished by an interesting original culture. For vacationers, it will be very informative acquaintance with local attractions. In addition, staying in Vietnam is distinguished by a special flavor in terms of the fact that the dominance of communist ideology remains in this country. Fans of modern military history will also find a lot of interesting things in Vietnam. Here, the memory of the American aggression, which brought many troubles to the local people, is carefully preserved. In you can see the numerous exhibited samples of military equipment of that era. There is an opportunity to take part in excursions to places associated with the local partisan movement (in particular, to see the underground passages used by the rebels). Also in Thailand and Vietnam, tourists will be curious to get acquainted with the local architecture, which is distinguished by its originality and unique national flavor.

At the end of the XX century. Thailand has become a popular destination for so-called sex tourism. However, it should be taken into account that recently the authorities have been doing everything to get rid of such a peculiar image of the country. Therefore, lovers of all kinds of pleasures, often forbidden, risk getting into an unpleasant situation. The main rule for a tourist should be compliance with the laws of the country of visit. Vietnam or Thailand? Where it is better to spend leisure time is up to the tourist to decide. The choice of places to visit is varied both in one country and in another.

So, both states are attractive places to visit. The mild climate, the beauty of the local seascapes, the presence of a developed tourist infrastructure and the friendly local population are, of course, attractive sides. Added to this is the relatively low price level. But what do vacationers themselves say about these countries, which resort to choose, Thailand or Vietnam?