Comparing tourism in Vietnam and Thailand, which country do Western tourists prefer?

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - After experiencing both Vietnam and Thailand, a British tourist found that she had better experiences in Vietnam than in Thailand.

With many travelers seeking a novel destination in Southeast Asia instead of the familiar Thailand, Vietnam could be the perfect alternative. This is the opinion of Molly Tooland, a journalist whose article was published in Express , one of the oldest online newspapers in the UK.

Her reflections are the culmination of her recent visit to Vietnam.

"Besides its stunning natural landscapes, Vietnam stands out for its diverse culture, rich history, and many untapped gems. In the eyes of many, the S-shaped country even surpasses Thailand in many aspects," the female tourist commented.

Da Nang is one of the favorite destinations for foreign tourists when visiting Vietnam (Photo: Toan Thinh).

According to the British tourist, Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches. Meanwhile, Vietnam is equally stunning.

These are the dreamy beaches in Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, or Hoi An. These places have many peaceful beaches, perfect for rejuvenating vacations.

In addition, Vietnam has 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The most prominent is Hoi An Ancient Town, one of the busiest trading ports from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

Today, Hoi An town is preserved almost intact, or you can visit Ha Long Bay with its turquoise waters and thousands of majestic limestone islands covered in lush green forests.

One of the experiences that has recently become popular with many foreign tourists is exploring the "Ha Giang Loop." This motorbike journey explores the northern highlands, offering breathtaking views of majestic mountains, waterfalls, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority villages.

Megan Coney, a girl from Australia, revealed that she met the kindest people in the world in Ha Giang (Photo: Megan Coney).

Considering factors like price, food, and crowds, Tooland believes that Vietnam offers more affordable living, delicious food, and is not as noisy as Thailand.

She noted that the cost of travel, food, and accommodation in Vietnam is generally cheaper than in Thailand. Vietnamese food is renowned for being fresh, healthy, and flavorful. Tourists can enjoy signature dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls at very reasonable prices.

Many cooking classes are held throughout Vietnam, where tourists can learn how to make traditional dishes and interact with incredibly friendly locals.

The British visitor also noted that Vietnam has an added advantage thanks to its coffee.

This is a paradise for creative coffee drinks, from egg coffee and coconut milk coffee to salted coffee. Each type has its own unforgettable flavor. The rich taste, sweet aftertaste, and unique brewing methods lead many to claim that Vietnam has the best coffee in the world.

Ultimately, Tooland found that Vietnam's appeal over Thailand also lies in its unique culture and rich history. Vietnam has gone through many remarkable historical periods.

Each period left a profound mark on culture, architecture, and lifestyle, creating a unique identity for the country.

This is not the first time international tourists have compared Vietnam and Thailand. This topic has previously sparked lively discussions about which destination is more attractive, but the debate remains unresolved because each country has its own unique advantages.

Esha Dasgupta, a female tourist from India who had the opportunity to experience both countries, believes they are both "gems" in Southeast Asia, making a comparison difficult as it depends on personal preferences and travel goals.

According to Dasgupta, the two countries have certain similarities but are not identical. Each country has its own unique identity, from tourist attractions to vibrant night markets, pristine white sandy beaches to historical sites.

One of the most popular destinations in Vietnam is Da Nang, home to the Marble Mountains and tranquil beaches. In Hue, visitors can explore ancient tombs, temples, and the Imperial Citadel.

Meanwhile, Thailand's strength lies in its white sandy beaches, such as those on Koh Chang or Koh Samui, which are attractive thanks to their coconut-lined shores and lush tropical forests. A visit to Bangkok wouldn't be complete without exploring its many nightlife spots and diverse street food.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/du-lich/dat-du-lich-viet-thai-len-ban-can-khach-tay-so-nuoc-nao-thich-hon-20250601184657429.htm