As Southeast Asia’s top two tourist hotspots, Vietnam and Thailand are often compared by international travelers—and in 2024, the numbers show a stark difference. Thailand welcomed 35.6 million visitors, more than double Vietnam’s 17.6 million.
Yet for many travelers, the story is more nuanced than just numbers. While Thailand impresses with polished service and convenience, Vietnam wins hearts with authenticity, warmth, and cultural depth.
Thailand: A Well-Oiled Tourism Machine
Travelers frequently commend Thailand for its seamless tourism experience. British traveler Alejandro Campbell, whose viral video contrasted the two nations, highlighted Thailand’s deep integration of tourism into its national economy. With English-speaking guides, structured tours, and aggressive marketing campaigns like “Amazing Thailand” and “Land of Smiles,” the country leaves a strong impression of professionalism.
Dutch tourist Nathalie Linden, who has visited both countries, agrees that Thailand feels easier for travelers, especially in places like Phuket, which cater specifically to international visitors. “Tourism in Thailand had a head start,” she notes, crediting its globally recognized branding and infrastructure.
Indeed, Thailand’s tourism revenues reached $60 billion in 2019, according to the World Bank, a testament to its systematic approach. With Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain handling 1.5 million passengers daily, its urban transport infrastructure gives it another edge, particularly when compared to Vietnam’s congested cities.
Vietnam: A Journey into Sincerity and Culture
Yet for all of Thailand’s convenience, it is Vietnam’s authenticity that travelers often remember most vividly. Linden recounts getting lost in the Mekong Delta, only to be helped by a kind local couple—one of many such stories of generosity. In Sa Pa, she was mesmerized by motorbike rides through terraced rice fields and the rich cultural textures of village life. At Fansipan, hotel staff went above and beyond to assist her family.
Australian traveler Grant Wilson, who has lived in both countries, says Vietnam’s charm lies in its human connection. “In Vietnam, staying at a homestay often means sharing meals with the host family. It’s not about business—it’s about bonding.”
Campbell recalls being invited for an impromptu chat by a Da Lat café owner. “There was no pressure, no awkwardness. He just wanted to practice English,” he says. These unscripted, heartfelt interactions, he adds, set Vietnam apart. “Thailand is a resort. Vietnam is real life—full of energy.”
From sipping iced tea on plastic stools in Saigon to being greeted with waves while riding past villages, many tourists say they feel like a part of the community in Vietnam—not just spectators.
The Challenges Vietnam Must Overcome
Despite its emotional appeal, Vietnam faces significant hurdles. Tourists commonly cite environmental issues like plastic waste and water pollution, especially in the Mekong Delta. Infrastructure is also a challenge—public transport is limited, and cities like Hanoi suffer from extreme congestion, recently ranking among the world’s top 20 most traffic-clogged cities in the 2024 TomTom Index.
Visa complexity further dampens Vietnam’s competitiveness. Unlike Thailand, which offers 30-day visa-free access to citizens of 60 countries, Vietnam’s more cumbersome processes deter spontaneous travel and undermine its potential as a regional travel hub.
Uncontrolled coastal development and overcrowded tourist sites, from Hoi An to Ha Long Bay, have also sparked concern among repeat visitors. Moreover, nightlife in Vietnam remains relatively underdeveloped for foreign tourists compared to Thailand’s vibrant entertainment scenes.
A Country in Transition
Still, change is underway. Vietnam is showing growing awareness of sustainability. Some hotels have begun cutting down on plastic use, and destinations like Ninh Binh and Hoi An are working on preserving natural beauty and cultural heritage. Events like the Da Nang Fireworks Festival signal Vietnam’s increasing readiness for global tourism.
Wilson believes Vietnam is evolving without losing its soul. “There’s room for improvement, but it’s catching up fast—and in a way that keeps its authenticity intact.”
Conclusion
For travelers, Thailand may offer the smoother ride, but Vietnam delivers the unforgettable journey. It’s a destination where kindness is spontaneous, stories unfold naturally, and cultural experiences feel deeply rooted. While Thailand markets itself as the “land of smiles,” Vietnam quietly earns a place in visitors’ hearts—one sincere moment at a time.
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Source: Vietnam Insider