In short : Hesitating between these two giants in Southeast Asia is a classic. Here is the quick summary to guide you: – Choose Thailand if: Looking for an easy trip (“zero stress”), paradise postcard beaches, lively nightlife and ultra-developed tourist infrastructure. – Choose Vietnam if: You are looking for a more raw cultural immersion, spectacular landscapes (rice paddles, rocky peaks), a busy history and fine gastronomy, all for a slightly lower budget. – BUDGET: The two countries are very affordable, but Vietnam remains a little cheaper on housing and street food. – Ease: Thailand wins hands down for a first experience thanks to very spoken English and the fluidity of transport.

Taking the course of a first trip to Asia is an exciting stopover. Southeast Asia, with its tropical climate, low cost of living and guaranteed cultural expatriation, is the ideal region to start. However, a question systematically comes up among travelers on aroundduglobe.fr : Should we start with Thailand or Vietnam?

If these two countries share spiritual borders and a similar climate, they offer radically different travel experiences. On one side, the “country of smiles”, run in to tourism for decades; On the other, the home of the dragon, vibrant, authentic and deeply marked by its history. Let’s sift through their strengths and weaknesses to find your ideal destination.

Thailand: a paradise for softness and beaches

The Thailand is often referred to as a “destination of initiation” in Asia. It’s the perfect country if you’re apprehensive about cultural shock or logistics on site.

Strengths 👍

The traveling facility There is unparalleled: trains, night buses and internal flights are reserved in three clicks. In addition, Thailand has the Most beautiful beaches in the area. Whether you choose the Dandaman Sea (Phuket, Koh Phi Phi) or the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Tao), white sand and turquoise water are always there. Finally, the Buddhist culture, omnipresent in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, is discovered through sparkling temples of memorable beauty.

Weaknesses 👎

The other side of the coin is the surtourism. Some spots (like Maya Bay) have lost their authenticity. Commercial solicitations are also more frequent in seaside areas.

Vietnam: cultural immersion and the variety of landscapes

The Vietnam It is aimed at travelers looking for a slightly more crude adventure and striking geographical diversity from north to south.

Strengths 👍

The Variety of landscapes Is phenomenal: the mountains and rice terraces of Sapa, the thousands of karstic peaks of Dhalong Bay (maritime and terrestrial), and the canals of the Mekong Delta. Vietnam also shines with its Cultural authenticity And its fascinating history, visible in the colonial architecture of Hanoi or the preserved alleys of Hoi An. On the cuisine side, Vietnamese gastronomy (Phở, Bánh Mì) is one of the freshest and most refined in the world.

Weaknesses 👎

Urban traffic (especially in Saigon and Hanoi) is a chaotic experience that can attack in the early days. Internal transport (like the reunification train) is slower and less comfortable than in Thailand.

Lexpert’s wash: If your top priority is to relax, party and perfect your tan on heavenly beaches, go for it Thailand. If you like moving every day, hiking, photographing scenes of rural life and exploring history, Vietnam will meet you beyond your expectations.

Comparative table: Thematic match for your choice

FAQ: Practical advice before the big departure

1. Which country requires a visa for French nationals?

For the Thailand, you benefit from a visa exemption for a tourist stay of less than 60 days. For the Vietnam, the French are exempt from visa for stays of less than 45 days. Just remember to have a passport valid at least 6 months after your return date for both countries.

2. When is the best time to go to these two countries?

In Thailand, the ideal period is from November to February (fresh and dry season). at Vietnam, the weather is more complex because the country is very long: the north has real winters, while the south is tropical. The months of March, April, October and November are generally the best compromises to visit the whole of Vietnam.

3. Is it easy to travel alone or as a single woman in these countries?

Thailand and Vietnam are among the safest countries in the world for solo travelers. The crime rate is very low there. Thailand has the advantage of having a community of “backpackers” so immense that it is impossible to feel alone and extremely easy to meet there.