International visitors put Vietnam and Thailand on the 'scale'

In the eyes of international tourists, Vietnam and Thailand are two "gems", similar at first glance but actually different from nature to culture.

According to Indian tourist Esha Dasgupta, Vietnam and Thailand are both famous gems in Southeast Asia, with special attractions and diverse cultural experiences. Which country to visit, according to Esha, will depend on each tourist's personal preferences and specific travel goals.

Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Moc Chau on the days before Tet. Photo: Tran Hai — Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Moc Chau on the days before Tet. Photo: *Tran Hai*

Natural beauty

Esha commented that both countries have "countless natural attractions, diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains, rivers, and forests".

Vietnam has "enchanting" or iconic destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Mui Ne sand dunes, Sa Pa terraced fields and surrounding mountain ranges known as the "Asian Alps", lakes and a dense river system.

Thailand is home to the magnificent Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park spread over more than 40 islands, Erawan Falls, the Tham Lot cave system and the Phi Phi Islands.

The best time

In northern Vietnam, if you want to visit Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, the best time to come is October-November and March-April. In the central region, including Hue and Hoi An, the ideal time is January-July, and destinations in the south such as Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta should be visited from December-April.

In Thailand, destinations such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, along with other northern and central regions, are at their best from November to February. Koh Samui is best visited from June to October to avoid the monsoon. Destinations such as Phuket, Pattaya, and Krabi are at their best from March to May.

Vietnamese tourists cycling in Chiang Mai. Photo: Dang Thuy Duong — Vietnamese tourists cycling in Chiang Mai. Photo: *Dang Thuy Duong*

Attractive tourist destination

While the two countries have many similarities, each has its own unique attractions, from magnificent temples, bustling night markets, white sand beaches to historical sites, according to Esha.

In Vietnam, Da Nang is considered by Indian female tourists as a famous and must-visit destination. Hue with its historical relics and ancient Hanoi are also suggestions.

In Thailand, Koh Chang Island with its white sand beaches, Koh Samui Island with its palm trees and lush tropical forests are suggestions. The capital Bangkok is definitely a name not to be missed.

Must-try experiences

In Vietnam, visitors can explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex network of underground tunnels on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, cruise the Mekong Delta, hike in Sa Pa, admire the ancient beauty of Hoi An and enjoy rich cuisine such as banh mi and pho. Scuba diving enthusiasts can join the experience in Phu Quoc.

Thailand’s islands are also a must-see, with over 300 islands offering a wide range of outdoor activities. Visit the Bangkok night markets, party in Phuket, scuba dive in the Similan Islands, enjoy the excitement of watching Muay Thai and indulge in the delicious street food.

Shopping Places

Esha suggests that tourists should visit Vietnam's night markets to buy fashion products. Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City are suggestions. Han Market in Da Nang and Dinh Cau Night Market in Phu Quoc are ideal places to buy souvenirs.

Bangkok is Thailand's shopping paradise, offering everything from clothing accessories to spices. Explore the diverse offerings at Bangkok's Rot Fai Market, Central Market, Chatuchak Weekend Market and Asiatique River Market. Phuket's weekend markets are a great place to shop for souvenirs.

Must-try foods and restaurants

Vietnamese cuisine has a rich seafood, fresh vegetables and fruits, and delicious fish sauce. Vietnamese people have the habit of preparing food with little oil. Some dishes you should try are pho, bun cha, banh mi, cao lau, and banh cuon.

In Vietnam, there are many Michelin recommended restaurants in all three regions. There are also Khue Restaurant, Lighthouse Sky Bar & Restaurat in Hanoi. The Gallery and Cloud Nine restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City. For vegetarians, Fam Fam in Ho Chi Minh City or May Vegan are suggestions.

Thai cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, creating a balance of spicy, sweet, sour and pungent. Dishes such as Pad Thai, green curry, papaya salad, tom yum soup are always at the top of the list of must-try dishes.

According to Esha, the best food is found at street stalls. For restaurants, visitors can go to Vertigo and 80/20 in Bangkok, Parc Thai Eatery and Bodhi Terrace in Chiang Mai. If in Pattaya, Edge and Big Fish are suggestions.