Should I travel to Vietnam first or to Thailand?

Choosing between Vietnam and Thailand for your travel destination first depends on various factors, including your interests, travel style, and the experiences you’re seeking. Both countries offer rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and a variety of activities. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

1. Cultural Experiences
Vietnam
Unique Heritage: Vietnam has a unique blend of indigenous culture and French colonial influences.
Historical Sites: The Cu Chi Tunnels, Imperial City of Hue, and Hoi An Ancient Town offer deep historical insights.
Local Life: Experience traditional Vietnamese markets, festivals, and rural village life.
Thailand
Rich History: Thailand is known for its ancient temples, grand palaces, and historical sites like Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.
Buddhist Culture: The country is predominantly Buddhist, with numerous ornate temples and religious ceremonies.
Vibrant Festivals: Festivals like Songkran (New Year) and Loi Krathong (Festival of Lights) are major cultural highlights.
2. Natural Beauty
Vietnam
Diverse Landscapes: From the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay to the terraced rice fields in Sapa and the lush Mekong Delta.
Beaches: Coastal areas like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc offer beautiful beaches.
Adventure: Opportunities for trekking, caving, and exploring rural countryside.
Thailand
Tropical Beaches: Famous for its stunning beaches and islands like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi.
National Parks: Rich in biodiversity with places like Khao Sok and Erawan National Park.
Mountains: Northern Thailand, particularly Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, offers beautiful mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
3. Food
Vietnam
Distinct Cuisine: Known for dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
Street Food: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are street food havens, offering a wide variety of affordable and delicious options.
Thailand
Spicy and Flavorful: Famous for its spicy, flavorful dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup.
Street Food: Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, offering a mix of traditional and modern Thai dishes.
4. Travel Costs
Vietnam
Budget-Friendly: Generally cheaper than Thailand in terms of accommodation, food, and transportation.
Backpacker-Friendly: Many affordable options for budget travelers.
Thailand
Varied Budget: Offers a range of options from budget to luxury, making it accessible for all types of travelers.
Tourism Infrastructure: Well-developed tourism infrastructure with plenty of accommodation and transport options.
5. Ease of Travel
Vietnam
Visas: Check the visa requirements for your nationality; Vietnam often requires a visa, but e-visas and visa-on-arrival options are available.
Transport: Trains, buses, and domestic flights are available, but the infrastructure is less developed compared to Thailand.
Thailand
Visas: Many nationalities can enter Thailand without a visa for a certain period.
Transport: Excellent tourism infrastructure with easy transportation options, including well-connected flights, buses, and trains.
6. Tourist Density
Vietnam
Less Crowded: Generally, Vietnam is less crowded with tourists compared to Thailand, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience in some areas.
Thailand
Popular Destination: Thailand is a very popular tourist destination, which means it can be crowded, especially in peak seasons and at major tourist spots.
7. Safety and Comfort
Vietnam
Safety: Generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, be mindful of petty theft and scams.
Language Barrier: English is not as widely spoken as in Thailand, but it’s still possible to communicate, especially in tourist areas.
Thailand
Safety: Very tourist-friendly and generally safe, with a well-established tourism industry.
Ease of Communication: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making it easier to navigate.
Conclusion
Start with Vietnam if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip with unique cultural experiences and diverse landscapes that are less crowded.
Start with Thailand if you prefer a more developed tourism infrastructure, stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and ease of travel.
Both countries are amazing and worth visiting, so it ultimately depends on your travel preferences and what experiences you prioritize. Consider starting with one and then traveling to the other, as both countries offer incredible and distinct experiences.