{"id":57118,"date":"2022-09-24T15:32:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-24T05:32:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/?p=57118"},"modified":"2025-03-25T02:03:46","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T15:03:46","slug":"vietnam-vs-thailand-where-to-travel-next","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/vietnam-vs-thailand-where-to-travel-next\/","title":{"rendered":"Vietnam vs Thailand: Where to travel next?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Chicken pad thai or a bowl of ph\u1edf?<\/strong> <strong>If only it was that easy to pick a country to explore&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So you&#8217;ve decided to plan your next adventure (good on you). And you&#8217;ve narrowed it down to <a href=\"\/southeast-asia\">South East Asia<\/a>. But then you face a dilemma: should you go to <a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/thailand\">Thailand<\/a> or <a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/vietnam\">Vietnam<\/a>? Both countries boast enchanting cultures, pristine beaches, captivating cities, warm tropical weather and delicious food (oh, the food!). The struggle is real, we get it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To save you from spending hours on Google or tossing a coin (though to be honest, you&#8217;d be a winner either way), we\u2019ve put together a guide that will hopefully make the decision a little easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beaches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870.jpg\" alt=\"The stunning Phi Phi islands in Thailand\" class=\"wp-image-57201\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Thailand_Phi-Phi-Islands_Ryan-Bolton2870-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The beautiful Phi Phi islands<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Swaying palm trees? Check. Powder white sand? Check. Gentle waves lapping the shore? Check. While you\u2019ll find stunning beaches in both countries, Thailand\u2019s are arguably more famous <strong>\u2013<\/strong> <em>ahem<\/em>, remember the iconic Maya Bay in the cult classic, <em>The Beach<\/em> (2000) starring Leonardo DiCaprio? Whether you want to party under the stars at Haad Rin on Koh Phangan, swim in tranquil lagoons on Koh Hong, bathe in the sapphire waters of Phra Nang on the Railay Peninsula or enjoy the secluded vibes of Phuket&#8217;s Freedom Beach, Thailand caters to beach bums of all kinds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/best-beaches-thailand\/\">RELATED: 6 BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN THAILAND YOU SHOULD VISIT<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky.jpg\" alt=\"Local fishermen mooring up on a beach in Vietnam\" class=\"wp-image-57141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_beach-boats-sky-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Local Vietnamese fishermen<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Vietnam\u2019s beaches probably don\u2019t feature on as many \u2018world\u2019s top beaches\u2019 lists, and there might not be as much tourist infrastructure, but this could be ideal if you\u2019re looking for a low-key beach holiday. With 2,000 miles of gorgeous coastline, you&#8217;re bound to find a beach to match your vibe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for a laid-back resort just a stone\u2019s throw from the charming city of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/top-6-things-to-do-in-hoi-an\/\">Hoi An<\/a>? Head to An Bang. Want to laze in a hammock while listening to the sounds of the jungle? Check out the island of Phu Quoc. The beach parties don&#8217;t rival Thailand&#8217;s, but for a more upbeat atmosphere where you can sip cocktails and have a boogie, go to Nha Trang. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Landscapes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing.jpg\" alt=\"Islands off Koh Samui in Thailand\" class=\"wp-image-57199\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_koh-samui_islands_sailing-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pristine islands off Koh Samui<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sharing borders with <a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/cambodia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cambodia<\/a>,&nbsp;<a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/laos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Laos<\/a>,&nbsp;<a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/malaysia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malaysia<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"\/myanmar-burma\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Myanmar<\/a>&nbsp;(Burma), Thailand&#8217;s geography varies greatly from region to region. There\u2019s no shortage of stunning scenery and \u2018pinch me\u2019 panoramas \u2013 from lush jungles and misty highlands in the north, to sheer limestone cliffs and picturesque islands in the south. In fact, dreamy islands are what makes Thailand really shine. Whether you want to learn how to dive, go jungle trekking or enjoy a romantic getaway with someone special, there are countless islands to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116.jpg\" alt=\"A scenic view of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam\" class=\"wp-image-57128\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_halong-bay_landscape_617829116-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Halong Bay, Vietnam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Both destinations have landscapes that promise to wow you, but many would say Vietnam\u2019s are more dramatic. Occupying a long, thin part of the Indochinese peninsula and sharing borders with&nbsp;<a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/china\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">China<\/a>,&nbsp;Laos&nbsp;and&nbsp;Cambodia, you\u2019ll discover everchanging scenery from forested mountains, huge caves and wind-whipped sand dunes, to steamy jungles, fruit-filled orchids and peaceful rice paddies. Whatever activities you have in mind, there\u2019s a good chance you\u2019ll be able to do them all in Vietnam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/vietnam\/scenic-vietnam-160326\">DISCOVER THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF VIETNAM ON OUR SCENIC VIETNAM TOUR<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, we can\u2019t talk about landscapes and <em>not<\/em> mention Halong Bay. With thousands of little limestone islets rising from deep, emerald waters, this magnificent archipelago is one of the country&#8217;s most impressive scenes.&nbsp;Explore the karst-studded bays on a junk-style boat cruise, get up close and personal to Cat Ba\u2019s otherworldly rock formations on a kayak or admire the epic stalagmites and stalactites&nbsp;in Surprise Cave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/cat-ba-island-vietnam\/\">RELATED: CAT BA ISLAND IS THE BEST THING ABOUT HALONG BAY. THIS IS WHY<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night.jpg\" alt=\"A busy street in Bangkok\" class=\"wp-image-57174\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_city-tuk-tuk-night-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Evening scenes in Bangkok, Thailand<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you run toward or away from big cities, it\u2019s impossible not to be intrigued by Thailand&#8217;s capital city, Bangkok. This huge metropolis is an enticing mix of old and new, chaos and calm \u2013 think trendy rooftop bars overlooking golden temples, colourful tuk-tuks maneuvering beneath modern sky trains and back-alley street food vendors among fine dining restaurants. Fill up on fresh tropical fruit at Tha Kha floating market, discover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the backpacker mecca of Khao San Road or indulge in a Thai massage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/bangkok-guide-thailand\/\">RELATED: WHAT TO DO, EAT &amp; DRINK IN BANGKOK<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you prefer a slower pace, head to the charming city of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand to marvel at hundreds of golden temples glistening in the sunlight, and tuck into tasty local fare at the famous night markets. If you&#8217;re a history buff, look no further than the UNESCO-listed city of Ayutthaya to explore the spectacular ruins of 14th-century palaces, temples and monasteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/thailand\/explore-northern-thailand-159896\">EXPLORE NORTHERN THAILAND WITH INTREPID<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634.jpg\" alt=\"A busy street filled with motorbikes in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam\" class=\"wp-image-57130\" style=\"width:780px;height:438px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_ho-chi-minh-city_street-night-3634-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The energy of Vietnam&#8217;s capital city, Hanoi is similar to Bangkok. The streets are flooded with cars, motorbikes and bicycles; constant traffic and loud horns follow you everywhere you go; and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/how-to-cross-the-road-in-vietnam\/\">crossing the road<\/a> feels like winning the Olympics. But there are many moments of peace among the mayhem. Explore the city&#8217;s maze-like alleyways, enjoy <em><a href=\"\/adventures\/best-bia-hoi-in-vietnam\/\">bia hoi<\/a> <\/em>(fresh beer) with locals on tiny plastic stools or watch life go by in cosy coffee shops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re all about the food, then head down south to Vietnam&#8217;s largest city, Ho Chi Minh to indulge in some of Vietnam\u2019s most sizzling street eats and sip cocktails in chic rooftop bars. To learn about some of the sobering events of the Vietnam War, it&#8217;s also worth visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/embracing-the-chaos-in-hanoi\/\">RELATED: EMBRACING THE CHAOS AND LEARNING TO LOVE HANOI<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the constant horn honking gets too much, you might like to head to Dalat where the city is surrounded by lakes, forests and waterfalls. Or for a more romantic vibe make your way to Hoi An <strong>\u2013<\/strong> a beautiful city brimming with colourful lanterns, heritage buildings, peaceful pagodas and winding waterways. If a laid-back coastal getaway filled with sun, sand and seafood sounds good, then head to the sleepy city of Qui Nhon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cuisine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood.jpg\" alt=\"Plates of pad kra pao in Bangkok\" class=\"wp-image-57183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Urban-Adventures-Thailand_Bangkok_Pad_Krapow_Streetfood-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Tasty <em>pad kra pao<\/em>&nbsp;(Thai basil chicken)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Add a squeeze of zingy lime juice, a few springs of lemongrass, a dash of fish sauce, a sprinkling of palm sugar and lots of chillies, and you have the basics of Thai cuisine. It\u2019s bold, insanely delicious and packed with fragrant aromas that you can smell a mile off. Get stuck into a rainbow of curries loaded with tender meat, seafood or veggies, slurp bowls of <em>tom yum<\/em> soup or chow down on <em>pad thai<\/em> \u2013 an iconic stir-fried noodle dish garnished with meat, veggies, bean sprouts and peanuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/best-food-thailand\/\">RELATED: FOODIE? HERE&#8217;S WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL TO THAILAND<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-57132\" style=\"width:780px;height:438px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_food_street-pho-noodles-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Vietnamese ph\u1edf as fresh as it gets<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Vietnamese know a thing or two about pho-nomenal food.&nbsp;It\u2019s characterised by fresh, contrasting flavours and textures. Think sweet and sour, crunchy and silky, fried and steamed. Tuck into piping hot bowls of <em>ph\u1edf<\/em> (beef noodle soup), crunchy <em>bun bo xao<\/em> (beef noodle salad) and delicious seafood<em> <\/em>hotpot washed down with cold beer. Not that you&#8217;ll need reminding, but make sure you try <em>banh mi<\/em> \u2013 a Vietnamese baguette filled with tender meat or tofu, pickled veggies, creamy mayo and fresh chilli. Yum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"\/adventures\/vegan-vegetarian-gluten-free-vietnam\/\">RELATED: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO EATING IN VIETNAM<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The proof is in the pudding, right? Well, these cuisines are t<em>hat <\/em>good, Intrepid has entire trips dedicated to<a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"\/food\"> finding, eating and cooking<\/a> the best Thai and Vietnamese fare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>TAKE YOUR TASTEBUDS ON A REAL FOOD ADVENTURE IN <a href=\"\/thailand\/thailand-real-food-adventure-159887\">THAILAND<\/a> OR <a href=\"\/vietnam\/vietnam-real-food-adventure-160333\">VIETNAM<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat.jpg\" alt=\"Floating markets in Thailand\" class=\"wp-image-57192\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_floating-trader-market-boat-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Floating markets in Thailand<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Littered with thousands of stunning temples, the peaceful pulse of Buddhism permeates daily life in Thailand. Family and national pride are also woven tightly into the culture. Thai people are known for their warmth and hospitality (it\u2019s not called the \u2018Land of a Thousand Smiles\u2019 for no reason!), and you\u2019re never too far from a friendly face welcoming you into a restaurant, shop or market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to immerse yourself in Thai culture, you may like to align your trip with one of the country&#8217;s many festivals. How about Songkran \u2013 a country-wide water fight that takes place in April to mark the Thai New Year? Or Chiang Mai&#8217;s dazzling Yi Peng lantern festival in November. There&#8217;s also the slightly weird and wonderful Monkey Buffet Festival in Lopburi where you can watch hundreds of local macaques feast on an impressive spread of fresh fruit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924.jpg\" alt=\"Performers wearing traditional Vietnamese clothing in Hoi An\" class=\"wp-image-57139\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Peregrine-Adventures-vietnam_hoi-an_PRG_049A1924-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Vietnam&#8217;s culture is ancient, but it has been influenced in different ways over the years by the Chinese, Khmer, French and American cultures. Despite the hardships of the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 1970s, most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/koto-vietnam-intrepid-foundation\/\">Vietnamese people<\/a> are keen to get on with life and live with a strong sense of optimism and humility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many Vietnamese people practice a form of religion that is an interesting mix of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, and there are also many practising Catholics. Like Thailand, family is a big focus. Festivals and holidays are spent with loved ones \u2013 participating in rituals, feasting on special foods, exchanging symbolic gifts and honouring ancestors. Some of the biggest cultural events include Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year) in late January\/early February, Buddha\u2019s birthday in April and Reunification Day celebrations in late April\/early May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weather<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local.jpg\" alt=\"Monsoon rains in Bangkok\" class=\"wp-image-57194\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-thailand_bangkok_tuk-tuk-rain-local-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Thailand has a tropical climate with hot, humid and monsoonal weather. There are two seasons \u2013 wet and dry \u2013 but they differ slightly from coast to coast. The best time to visit northern, eastern and western Thailand is typically between November and February when it\u2019s cooler and dry. If you\u2019re heading south or you fancy diving or snorkelling, January through April offers prime weather and sea conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The monsoon arrives in July through to November, and these months may be uncomfortably hot and sticky for those who aren&#8217;t accustomed to tropical heat.&nbsp;That said, it\u2019s less crowded and can be a great opportunity to experience a quieter, more tranquil Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2.jpg\" data-rel=\"penci-gallery-image-content\" ><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2.jpg\" alt=\"A Vietnamese woman cruising through a lily pad-filled lake in the Mekong Delta\" class=\"wp-image-57136\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2-425x239.jpg 425w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/adventures\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Intrepid-Travel-vietnam_mekong-waterlily-lotus-flower-2-585x329.jpg 585w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cruising through the Mekong Delta, Vietnam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Vietnam has more diverse regional weather due to its location and landscapes. There are two distinct seasons \u2013 the northeast monsoon from October to early April and the southwest monsoon from April to September \u2013 but the weather varies a lot across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Northern Vietnam experiences cold, dry winters from December to February and overnight temperatures can dip to 4\u00b0C (39\u00b0F), while southern Vietnam sees warm to hot temperatures all year. That said, temperatures often exceed a swelteringly hot 36\u00b0C (97\u00b0F) in Ho Chi Minh City during the dry season, which isn&#8217;t ideal for those who prefer mild weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The verdict <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The jury&#8217;s out on this one. Thailand and Vietnam are both incredible countries, and with so much on offer \u2013 stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, mouthwatering food, buzzing cities and heaps of culture \u2013 we have no doubts you&#8217;ll have an unforgettable trip no matter where you go. Happy travels!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Chicken pad thai or a bowl of ph\u1edf? If only it was that easy to pick a country to explore&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16233,"featured_media":57197,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1313],"tags":[180,385,35,41],"class_list":["post-57118","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","tag-asia","tag-south-east-asia","tag-thailand","tag-vietnam"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.3.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Vietnam vs Thailand: Where to Travel Next? 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