Where better to relax in Vietnam or Thailand. Vietnam or Thailand, which is better and who better to go

When planning your vacation in Asia, you can consider where it is better to go - to Thailand or to Vietnam. Both countries are popular among tourists from all over the world and our compatriots, they are excellent resorts, but each of them has its own characteristics. In the article, we will look at how these countries are similar and how they differ, and maybe you can decide where to spend your vacation in 2019 - in Thailand or in Vietnam.

General information about Thailand and Vietnam: history, geography, climate, visa, security

History reference

Travel to these countries and hotel infrastructure

The flight time to both countries is approximately 9-10 hours. For example, taking a flight for January from Moscow to Bangkok (Thailand), the cost on a popular site for buying air tickets starts from 15,000 rubles (one way). Compared with Vietnam, a flight to the capital, Hanoi, with the same input, will cost from 22,000 rubles.

The hotel infrastructure is developed in both countries. Hotels in Thailand are mostly inexpensive, they are not classified according to the international system, but they provide good service and comfort. At the same time, in the country you can find both a luxury hotel and a simple bungalow. In popular resorts, as a rule, there is an option for every taste and budget. A luxurious room in the capital of Thailand will cost about 4,000 rubles per night. A simple hostel - only 500 rubles. The resorts of Pattaya and Phuket are considered not too expensive.

In Vietnam, the situation is similar. Large cities of the state have a large hotel stock and an average European service. There is practically no all-inclusive system anywhere, except for some hotels in and on. In a decent hotel in Hanoi, a night of accommodation will cost 2,500 rubles, in a hostel - 400 rubles.

Thailand and Vietnam: what are the differences between holidays in these countries?

Beach holidays in Thailand and Vietnam

If you go on a beach holiday to any of these two countries, then the sea will definitely please you with its beauty and purity. The azure color of sea water, snow-white sand, palm trees - all this is in both of these countries. The underwater world is beautiful and varied in both Vietnam and Thailand.

Several resorts are popular in Thailand. The famous resort is located off the coast of the South China Sea. Those who love a relaxing beach holiday choose the island. Budget tourists, mostly Russians, by the way, choose the beaches of Pattaya itself - not very much, but everything is decent in the vicinity of the resort.

In Vietnam, tourists tend to choose (if you want luxury), Mui Ne (family and relaxing holidays), or Nha Trang (a resort popular with young people and middle-aged people).

The beaches are mostly municipal. But those who wish can rent a sun lounger and a parasol. When choosing Thailand, you need to keep in mind that there is an opportunity to catch dengue fever or malaria, these terrible diseases are spread by mosquitoes. There is no such problem in Vietnam, but there are other infectious diseases. However, nothing prevents you from getting all the vaccinations and having preventive measures, then the rest will not be overshadowed by anything.

If we compare two popular resorts: Pattaya and Nyachang, then the landscapes of Thailand in this place are not as beautiful as in the Gulf of Vietnam. Nyachang is one of the thirty most beautiful bays in the world.

Entertainment and some features of the two countries

Those tourists who have visited both countries note that in Vietnam there is no smell on the streets that is present in the cities of Thailand. On the streets you will not see cows and stray dogs. Rats, lizards, and other animals can be found in any Asian country.

In Nha Trang (Vietnam) there is a Russian information center where you can get any information for Russian tourists, as well as buy excursions. Most of our compatriots usually rest in Pattaya, so much is adapted for them, and information can be obtained and excursions ordered.

On the beaches of both countries, there are many entertainments related to water sports. In Vietnam, everyone can go fishing, diving, surfing. Diving enthusiasts come here from all over the world, because here this species active rest considered the cheapest in the world. There are two scuba diving centers in Nha Trang resort, three more - on the islands of Phu Koo, Whale, and Con Dao. Mui Ne offers sand hill skiing. In Thailand, you can also go diving, admire the beauty of the underwater world.

However, in Thailand on any beach you can get a quality massage, which is not the case in Vietnam. In Vietnam, the resorts of Nyan Chag and Phan Thiet have mineral springs and therapeutic mud, and spa centers offer acupuncture and herbal treatments. But still, it is Thailand that is known for its spa treatments, here you can also find resorts with hot springs, health centers, there are more such offers here.

Both countries are distinguished by good medicine, where it is better - it all depends on what the patient needs. For children, a wonderful holiday is provided in the resorts of both countries, since the climate in the right season is usually well tolerated, the sea is warm, and the beaches are sandy. In both countries, there are a lot of fruits and vegetables that will help strengthen the child's body, increase immunity and enjoy the exotic.

Cuisine, shopping, recreation for children in Thailand and Vietnam

If we compare the two cuisines, it should be noted that the basis for both is rice. In Thailand, the dishes are spicier, while in Vietnam, they are mostly sweet, even meat.

In Thailand, you can try exotic snake, crocodile, frog, insect and other exotic dishes. But more conventional dishes are also available: plenty of choice in seafood, chicken or pork. From Thai cuisine, it is worth trying Tom Yum soup, which consists of seafood, fish, and much more; papaya salad "som tam"; Thai alcoholic drinks.

The basis of Vietnamese cuisine is also chicken and pork, noodles and the same seafood are very popular. You should definitely try the pho noodles made from rice and lean meat; as well as a hotpot dish. The latter is not quite a dish, here the eater is the cook himself. A saucepan is brought to the client, and under the guidance of the chef of the establishment, the client himself chooses what to cook his soup from. Vietnam also has very tasty coffee.

Tourist service in Thailand is more developed, due to the fact that it exists much longer than in Vietnam. The latter, after all, suffered more from wars, destruction and upheavals, while Thailand kept a little on the sidelines. Recently, much attention has been paid to the tourism industry - new hotels are being built, tourist routes. Luxury shopping is better in Thailand, there are many branded clothing stores, in Vietnam you can buy good children's clothes, they will cost less. Also, the proximity of China makes it possible to buy inexpensive goods made in China.

If you are going to Vietnam, bring back with you:

• fruit chips;
• tinctures with alcoholized snake;
• tea and coffee;
• jewelry made of silver, pearls, ivory;
• silk and leather;
• flip flops and a hat.

From Thailand you can grab for yourself and as a gift:

• figurines of Buddha or animals;
• natural cosmetics;
• clothing made from natural materials;
• technique.

From both countries you can buy famous balms and ointments - yellow, green, red ... of all shades and for any purpose. Traditional medicine of these countries has long been known throughout the world.

Sights of Thailand and Vietnam: what's the difference?

There are more sights to see in Thailand, but in Vietnam there is more beautiful nature.

Thailand is famous primarily for its temples, parks, palaces. The main attractions of Thailand are located in. One of them is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It makes up a complex with the palace of the country's monarch himself. This temple is the most sacred Buddhist site in Thailand. Sculptures of lions, murals from the life of Buddha, Thai style of architecture - this is a unique place.

Interesting to visit the city of Ayutthaya. This is an ancient city that was once the capital of Siam. Now there are both locals and hotels, but the ancient city stands, protected by UNESCO, and is a must-see in

You can visit not only ancient and classical monuments, but also such unusual places as a crocodile farm or floating market, elephant village or rum factory.

As for Vietnam, here you can admire waterfalls, beautiful lakes: Western and Xuan Huong. The park of the bay is a set of islands and rocks resembling a wide variety of animals.

The city of Hue is interesting to visit: there you can see ancient heritage last emperors. Palaces and pagodas, citadels and temples - walking along ancient city, you can connect your imagination and imagine how it was here all thousands of years ago?

The city is also interesting to visit. The fact is that here the Asian flavor is mixed with the influence of the French and Americans, who strongly influenced Vietnam at one time. Buildings of the colonial era - cathedrals, hotels contrast with the locals and small shops. And in Ho Chi Minh there is a wonderful park, a zoo, a botanical garden.

There are many unusual entertainments in Vietnam: elephant riding, visiting Cu Chi partisan tunnels, snake restaurants.

More atmosphere of Southeast Asia in the video:

In general, the list goes on and on. One article does not fit the sights of one country, let alone two. Which country to choose for a vacation - decide, based on your own preferences in terms of comfort, what kind of vacation you or your children need. After all, the climate and beach holidays in both countries are quite similar, so the atmosphere, attractions and features of these countries will play a role.

Many tourists who decide to visit Asia for the first time think where better rest Thailand or Vietnam? Both directions seem to provide a lot of opportunities. However, there are pluses and minuses. Given them, you can already decide for yourself exactly where it is better to go.

Flight

For example, from Moscow to Bangkok, the flight time is 8 hours. Hanoi is 1 hour longer. Ticket prices are about the same.

Climate

Thailand and Vietnam are dominated by a subtropical climate. In Thailand, the high season starts in June and lasts until the end of September. During this period, the average air temperature is + 30 degrees Celsius.

The peculiarity of the Vietnamese climate allows you to receive tourists throughout the year. The average air temperature is +32 degrees Celsius.

Where is the best beach holiday?

Here it is worth giving preference to Thailand. Within the territory of exotic country there are a large number of different resorts, where all conditions are created for a good beach holiday. The features of the beaches are that they are located both on the mainland and on the coastal islands. Almost all beaches are sandy with crystal clear waters. The most popular are:

• Patong
• Chaweng
• Karon

There are fewer beaches in Vietnam, but they are not inferior in beauty. Shallow water and a gentle entrance to the sea allow vacationers with children to safely enjoy swimming in the sea. Fans of a quiet pastime will be able to choose any island beach in picturesque bays. Such places are surrounded by rocks, which make it possible to spend a secluded vacation. The most popular are:

• Chiong
• Cathdua
• Changfu
• Nha Trang

As for lovers of the underwater world, diving enthusiasts should definitely visit places such as: Koh Tao, Phi Phi, and the Surin Islands.

Where are the best hotels

Many tourists, especially vacationers with children, pay great attention when choosing a hotel. In Thailand, this is not a problem. Almost every resort is rich in various accommodation options. In the first coastline there are villas and hotels of 4-3 and 5 stars. They are distinguished by high service level and developed infrastructure. In the second coastline, you can find several budget options, but even they offer customers normal living conditions.

In Vietnam, you can find cheap hostels and hotels. However, the Europeans will not like it there. There is no service, there is no infrastructure as such. Hotels from 4 stars and above have everything you need for a good holiday.

Visas

In Thailand, you can rest up to 30 days without a visa. In Vietnam up to 15 days.

Internet

One of the main problems of Thailand in the field of tourism is the slow Internet. It is easier to go the other way: buy a local SIM card and there will be no problems with the Internet.

In Vietnam, even in the cheapest hotel, you can safely use the Internet, at a good speed.

Food

Fans of exotic dishes will like Vietnam more. Here, tourists can taste a snake, crocodile, ostrich, dog and even a rat. National cuisine implies a great use of various spices, including bitter spices. But there are more fruits in Thailand, as this country is famous for its warm climate and fertile soil.

Sea Food is in particular demand in both countries. You will see fresh fish, shrimps, squids, shells scattered on the ice. You point your finger and they cook what you choose. These are the freshest products that have not yet been frozen. Definitely a must try. It is advisable to come early, because. late in the evening everything is eaten and there is nothing left to cook.

Where is it better to relax with a child in Thailand or Vietnam

One of the best resorts for holidays with children in Vietnam is the picturesque Mui Ne. On its territory there are cozy beaches, completely protected from high waves. The gentle entrance to the sea gives additional security.

In Thailand it is better to choose Koh Samui. The absence of high waves, the developed infrastructure of the coastline allows you to have a great time with children.

Transport

In major cities of Vietnam, there is no subway, the cost of public transport is significantly lower than in Thailand.

In Bangkok, a tourist will be able to choose any means of transportation, taking into account their capabilities. There is also a surface metro. The most popular among tourists are the so-called tuk-tuks.

Where are the best attractions?

In this regard, Thailand takes a significant advantage. Here the tourist will be able to get to know the local culture and Buddhism in general. Curious travelers will be able to unravel the mysteries of ancient temples, visit historical complexes, majestic palaces, etc. You must see at least once the following treasures of history:

• Grand Royal Palace in Bangkok
• Baioke Sky Observation Deck in Bangkok
• Siam Ocean World in Bangkok
• Mini Siam Park in Pattaya
• Ancient Stone Park in Pattaya
• Nong Nooch Park in Pattaya
• Big Buddha on Koh Samui
• white temple

Vietnam also boasts interesting cultural places to tourists. The most in demand are:

• Imperial City in Hue
• Tomb of Khai Dinh
• Linh Phuoc Pagoda
• Hanoi citadel

Entertainment

The land of a thousand smiles provides a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities. Numerous resorts are full of entertainment centers, nightclubs and other places of recreation. Go-go clubs and various shows are especially popular.

Holidays in Thailand are:

• High maintenance service
• good hotels
• Luxurious beaches
• Wide range of entertainment
• Attractions
• Transport accessibility
• Diverse underwater world

Holidays in Vietnam are:

• Low prices
• Available internet
• Relaxation options
• Interesting excursions

Rest in both countries is a sea of ​​positive and good mood!

Hello fellow travelers! Two interesting countries what better vietnam or Thailand? If you are in search, where better to go, vietnam or thailand then you have come to the right place! We will tell you in detail about the intricacies, features, advantages and disadvantages of rest in two wonderful countries. Are you ready, let's go! To begin with, both countries are typical Asian, and Southeast Asia is united by eternal summer 365 days a year, heat, worship of the Buddha, sluggishness, scootering, a very modest life, fresh fruits, fish and seafood.

In general, the bottom line is that no matter which country you decide to choose, , in both countries relaxation will be very, very colorful! If you are driving for the first time, then immediately be prepared for a slight chaos on the streets, for small lizards, rats, cockroaches and other living creatures running through the streets. It's unpleasant at first, but you get used to it in just a couple of days! And the lizard lizard in the shale is not “oh, fu”, but she lives here, this is her house. 🙂 Moreover, there are much more advantages of rest! Don't rush to leave!

Prices, cafes, bars-restaurants, where is cheaper vietnam or thailand

Prices for absolutely everything are pleasantly pleasing to the eyes of tourists. Will you choose Vietnam or Thailand, no matter. The more popular the place, the more tourists rest - the more expensive. But as practice shows, Vietnam is still cheaper in all respects, from taxi prices to the cost of groceries in shops and cafes.

Cafes and there, and there in great abundance.

Fruits, fish and seafood

Due to the peculiarities of the climate and geographical location, nature has generously endowed both countries with a huge selection of fruits, fish and seafood. We were in Phuket and Koh Samui (Thailand) and in Nha Trang with Phan Thiet (Vietnam). I will say this, the palm in the assortment of fish gifts belongs to Vietnam! At least what we saw in the cafe. I admit that the choice in the markets is rich everywhere, but tourists eat mainly in cafes near the beaches in tourist areas. The choice in Vietnam, of course, is amazing - a dozen types of some kind of shells the size of a little finger or palm, many different seaweeds, shrimp, crabs, langoustines, of course, and much more.
By the way, if you are a lover of mangoes and pineapples, then you are in Thailand, because that is where they are divine.

Thai and Vietnamese cuisine

The Vietnamese and Thais will give you the opportunity to experience a gastronomic orgasm. The number of national dishes is huge. Thai cuisine is more spicy due to the many spices, Vietnamese tastes more familiar, soft, refined. What to choose, Thailand or Vietnam with a child, the question is ambiguous. I came across the opinion that supposedly Thailand is more developed and civilized, with which I cannot agree. I think that this very level of civilization is determined by the place where you decide to relax. A lot also depends on the establishments where you eat. But in terms of cuisine for children, Vietnam is better.

Tour prices, tickets

Depending on your preference, you can choose where it is better to relax, Vietnam or Thailand, and buy a ready-made tour. Naturally, prices depend on the season, resort, hotel category, number of nights.
The main criterion is the resort and the season! Mostly, the prices for Thailand are higher, simply due to the fact that Thai is more promoted and known in the Russian market.

It is sometimes much cheaper to fly to Vietnam on your own than with the help of a travel agency, but trips to Thailand are mainly profitable to make by buying a ready-made tour.

Also, when choosing Vietnam or Thailand, which is better, an important factor for me personally is the availability of a direct flight.

Sea, beaches

My favorite here is Thailand. The water is more emerald and beckons, the photos come out amazing.
Vietnam is also famous for its beautiful sea, it’s just that it’s completely different there, it tastes and color, as they say.

The beaches are decent in both countries. Vietnam in this regard is still more unknown, you can find beautiful wide long beaches without crowds of tourists. By the way, many in Thailand are uncomfortable because of the presence of transvestites on the streets. They meet there often. In Vietnam, this is exceptionally traditional!

Thailand or Vietnam, which is better the answer to this question depends more on the holiday month when you are planning your holiday. On my own behalf, I can say that I once rested with my husband in Phuket (October), Koh Samui (December), in Nha Trang (June), on Phan Thiet - Mui Ne (November). And everywhere is good, I personally would go to every place more than once! At some point in my life I want to go to Thailand more, after a certain time I want to go to Vietnam more.

I have very different impressions about Thailand and Vietnam, this is largely due to the fact that the vacation was at different moments of life, and in ordinary everyday life anything happens - and at work there can be failures, quarrels with close and dear people, and other unpleasant moments . Each trip is a unique story, because how we spend our vacation and what new emotions we bring with us also depends on the mood with which we came to rest.

Everywhere is good, choose, guided by intuition, and this will be your best vacation!

• Minimum prices in budget hotels in Pattaya are 650-700 rubles, in 2-3 * hotels on the first coastline - from 1500-5000 rubles, in 4 * hotels - from 1200-2000 rubles, in 5 * hotels - from 3500-4000 rubles.
• Prices in Nha Trang hotels: in inexpensive hotels 2-3 * in the European quarter - from 500-800 rubles, in hotels 4-5 * by the sea - from 4500 rubles.

Prices for such a popular service as massage in specialized salons in Vietnam they start from 280 rubles, in Thailand - from 800 rubles.

Internet and mobile communications

Vietnam is very cheap. Tourists can everywhere buy a prepaid card and call home.

The average cost of a minute of conversation in Vietnam is 10 rubles, in Thailand - 2-3 times more expensive.

Most economical to use SIM cards with advantageous Internet access using messengers to communicate.

Drimsim is a SIM card not tied to one operator, it works in 197 countries, provides stable connection, fast internet and prices, almost like those of local operators.

• no need to set up roaming and buy a local SIM card
• no monthly fee and hidden fees

Transport

Excellent in both countries developed both domestic and intercity transport links. According to tourists, fares in public transport in Vietnam is somewhat cheaper, however, the difference is not very significant.

The fare for city buses in Vietnam is about 20 rubles, minimum starting price for a taxi ride - from 40 rubles, for 1 kilometer of the way - 40 rubles.

Songthaeo fare in Thailand - from 20 rubles, taxis in the country are predominantly unmetered and fares vary on average from 200 to 800 rubles.

Tickets for trains, buses, ferries, charters

12Go.Asia provides online booking of all types of transport on one platform, in the countries of Southeast Asia and Oceania.

The medicine

Quality of medical care countries are about the same. Prices depend on the severity of the injury or illness.

To receive quality tourist assistance insurance required, without which you should not go on vacation, so that in case of possible health problems you do not incur huge unforeseen expenses.

Travel insurance

The best option for travel insurance abroad, you can compare the offers of companies and buy an electronic policy online.

Attractions

Both countries have a rich history and boast a large number of attractions. The choice of tourists in this regard is based solely on personal preferences.

That there were no global hostilities on the territory of the state for many centuries, in connection with which ancient sights.

Much was destroyed by war in the last century, but in large settlements can still be found historical palaces and buildings.

Excursions

Fascinating excursions for vacationers and travelers in 350 cities around the world: Tripster.ru is a service of unusual excursions from local residents and guides who can tell you about the most interesting things in their cities in an interesting and exciting way.

Beaches

In both countries one can find both wild beaches and beaches with well-developed infrastructure.

Most are located in resorts such as Samui, Phuket and Pattaya.

concentrated in Nha Trang and Phan Thiet. Vietnamese beaches, according to tourists, are wider, cleaner and less crowded than the beaches of Thailand. They are more suitable for families with children.

Stay on the coast in a bungalow and enjoy the unity with nature in Vietnam is possible only in Fukuoka.

Preferring rest on sparsely populated, practically wild beaches , you should choose Thailand - Koh Wai, Samet and Koh Mak.

Undersea world

Tourists fond of snorkeling and, offering a large number interesting places for diving. Surin, Similan Islands, Phi Phi and Koh Tao are popular among diving enthusiasts.

Entertainment

By number where the night life boils until the morning. In Vietnam, with the onset of the dark time of the day, life seems to freeze. Therefore, tourists who prefer nightlife should definitely choose Thailand for their holidays.

dangers

Travelers in the countries of Southeast Asia, among which it is worth noting the high risk of poisoning with unusual food, the risk of sunburn or heat stroke, the risk of being bitten by carriers of dangerous diseases - mosquitoes, as well as the risk of becoming a victim of scammers or pickpockets.

Thailand - 4, Vietnam - 5. Let's take two southern resorts: the island of Phuket in Thailand and the city of Nha Trang in Vietnam. In the most tourist time (in winter), the second one seemed much more pleasant to us. Not so hot, the evenings are cooler and fresher. But depending on the season and as you move to the south or north of any of the countries, the weather can vary significantly. In the north of Vietnam in March, we were fairly cold, while in Bangkok we were exhausted from heat and humidity. By the way, winter in Vietnam is not the season, the sea is restless, there are showers. But in the south of Thailand at this time it is simply amazing: the sea is clean, you can safely swim, the weather is dry, the sun is not as hot as in spring.

Prices

Food

Thailand - 4, Vietnam - 5. In Vietnam, as it seemed to us, fresh vegetables and fruits are more affordable. But if we talk about imported products that Asians do not particularly eat (like milk, cheese), then it is difficult to compare.

Clothing, appliances, electronics

Thailand - 4, Vietnam - 2. The Vietnamese market is very poor compared to Thailand. Technology and electronics are not the strong point of this country. Everything is more expensive than in Thailand. As for clothes, popular chain brands in Vietnam are many times less than in Thailand. Clothes from the market are again cheaper here.

Housing

Thailand - 5, Vietnam - 4. Thailand is very developed from a tourist point of view, so housing for every taste in any city is easy. great amount. Any resort is built up with condotels, villas. There are many beautiful European-style apartments and houses near the sea, and the price is much lower relative to Russia. Housing in Vietnam is cheap, especially hotels. But finding something European is very difficult. We have been looking for an apartment in Nha Trang for a very long time and chose one of the most expensive options. All the rest were filled with Vietnamese-style wooden furniture. For us, it was not very familiar and comfortable.

Internet availability and speed

Thailand - 2, Vietnam - 3. Vietnam has excellent and cheap mobile internet. Works almost everywhere, even in the villages and on the highway. If we talk about the home Internet, it is rather unstable. Failures, as a rule, are associated with breakdowns in the backbone networks. In Thailand, the Internet was dead almost everywhere, especially in guesthouses. Mobile Internet is of good quality, but much more expensive than in Vietnam.

Infrastructure

Thailand - 5, Vietnam - 3. Thailand is ideal for a tourist. The roads are of excellent quality. On every corner there are convenience stores, street food, shopping malls, entertainment complexes, bars, clubs. Here at any time of the day you can find food for every taste. Entertainment is the same story. Vietnam is far behind in this respect. Eating or buying something after 23:00 is problematic. The Vietnamese go to sleep together, and the streets are empty. Our favorite chain of stores 7-Eleven is gone. There are small grocery stores, but they are more like warehouses. Yes, and they work according to a schedule that is convenient for the owner. Shopping malls leave much to be desired.

Visa procedure (easy)

Thailand - 2, Vietnam - 5. This is definitely a flag for Vietnam. A visa can be issued for a period of one or three months right upon arrival at the airport. It is not expensive at all, there are no consular fees. Until recently, it was still easy and cheap to extend this visa, but now it is more difficult. The visa-free regime for Russian citizens is 15 days, but in Thailand it is 30. It is more expensive to issue and extend a Thai visa. This can only be done outside the country at a Thai consulate. This process is stressful. You never know what a person at passport control will cling to. We give Thailand a B for tightening its visa policy. In general, we now get into Thailand with a creak, having several exit-entry stamps into the country. It used to be much easier, but every year the migration policy tightens the vise. Perhaps Vietnam will someday become less accessible.

Food

Thailand - 5, Vietnam - 4. Thailand - This is a place where you will never go hungry. There is probably no other country in the world with such a quantity and variety of street food. Street food is very affordable, you can find it at almost any time of the day. Restaurants for every taste. But in Vietnam, at certain hours, food simply disappears from the streets. It's hard to find something at lunchtime because the Vietnamese go out for a siesta. There are also a huge number of restaurants, delicious seafood. To be honest, food in Vietnam is closer to us. It is simpler and very affordable. – $1 for a huge bowl of soup or rice with meat or fish. And you can eat it. And yes, we have not eaten such delicious rice anywhere else.

Transport

Thailand - 4, Vietnam - 4. It is very difficult to compare capitals and provinces, because they are two different things, just like in Russia. Major cities in Vietnam do not have a subway, while Bangkok has both an underground metro, a surface BTR, and water transport. And a very cheap taxi. Only 35 baht for landing and about 5 baht for each subsequent kilometer. But very often traffic jams in Bangkok are such that you can wind up a lot of money by the meter. There are also a lot of taxis in Vietnam, and they are quite affordable. Buses are inexpensive, there are a lot of bicycles and motor rickshaws. There are a large number of tuk-tuks in Thailand, but we do not like to use their services, they often inflate prices. There are free bus routes in Bangkok, but they are usually wooden buses without air conditioning. The price depends on the type of bus.

Beaches

Thailand (Phuket) - 5, Vietnam (Nha Trang) - 3. We can compare two countries only by two seaside resorts. Phuket is washed by the Andaman Sea, which has a stunning turquoise color. The island has a huge number of developed beaches with good infrastructure and plenty of entertainment. In season, Phuket is just perfect for those who love the sea. There are not so many beaches in Nha Trang, the water is not azure, and in the evening all the beaches are crowded with the Vietnamese themselves, who like to come to the sea with their families. There is little entertainment, and the infrastructure is less developed. Although, when we rode through Vietnam from north to south on bikes, we saw a large number the most beautiful beaches with blue sea and white sand, but these were wild, non-tourist places.

The medicine

Thailand - 5, Vietnam - 4. In Thailand, we were both in private clinics and semi-public ones. The service is top notch, the staff is friendly, the prices are not that high. All the necessary medicines are given in the required amount immediately after the doctor's appointment. It is very comfortable. In Vietnam, we applied for insurance once. Then the doctor came to our house. He spoke very little English, gave me antibiotics and a couple of concomitant medications, and left. But I liked dentistry in Vietnam. Dental treatment was not expensive at all. By the way, as far as we know, there are doctors in Vietnam who speak Russian. There are a lot of clinics in Thailand and Vietnam.

Adaptation

Thailand - 3.5, Vietnam - 3.5. This is a very personal aspect. Everyone in a new country always adapts differently. In Thailand, it was difficult for us to get used to food, both came down with stomach pains in the third week. The food is really spicy and very specific: absolutely new tastes that we have not tried before. Well, smells. In Vietnam, the food is more fresh and simple: rice with meat or fish, mild soup with rice noodles can be found in any village.

It is more difficult in Vietnam with adaptation in terms of language. Very few Vietnamese who have nothing to do with tourism speak English. All price tags in supermarkets are in Vietnamese. While we were driving around the country, we learned numbers and a couple of phrases in order to find out at least the cost of food in a cafe. They often used an interpreter. This has not happened in Thailand. In tourist places, any local resident will be able to answer you in tolerable English. Even in a market where there are few tourists.

P.S.

Nastya and Yura lead a video blog about travel and life in Asia. If interested, go to their channel " Two tickets ».