Tourists have revealed why they would skip Thailand and go straight to another country with incredible beaches that costs a lot less. Thailand is popular for backpackers and luxury seekers who want to experience amazing cuisine, unique culture and some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. However, it is located right next to one country that some travellers say is more worthy of a visit, and costs way less than its more popular neighbour.

Thailand is located in Southeast Asia, and is the most well-known visitor destination in the region. For decades now, Thailand has grown into a first-choice spot for all kinds of tourists. But not too far from Thailand is a country with amazing food, history, culture and nature. Vietnam is becoming a top contender for Brits travelling to Southeast Asia. This country has so much to offer tourists, and people sometimes spend weeks at a time experiencing everything there is to do in Vietnam.

Vietnam is largely considered cheaper than Thailand in terms of food, accommodation and tourist attractions. Even though it costs less, there is just as much to do and see, including breathtaking beaches and magnificent scenery that you have to see to believe.

Many tourists have listed their reasons why they consider Vietnam a more worthwhile trip than Thailand, apart from the cost difference. One travel vlogger shone a light on one area of Vietnam in particular, revealing that it’s the reason people should “skip Thailand”.

Geek Wandering, who has close to half a million YouTube subscribers, praised Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island for its white sand beaches, scenic cable car, historic temples and general low cost. “From breathtaking natural wonders to unique cultural experiences, Phu Quoc has it all,” she said.

However, this stunning and often overlooked island isn’t the only thing that makes Vietnam more preferable than Thailand for many tourists. In a Reddit discussion, one tourist revealed: “I spent 2 weeks in Vietnam, loved it. Hanoi, Hoi An & Phu Quoc. I’ve also been to Thailand. I’d skip Thailand and spend 3 was in Vietnam!”

Another said of their experience: “Vietnam is the better Thailand imo [in my opinion]. My favourite travel destination. It has the party and allure of Thailand without the in-your-face scammers and sex industry.”

A third wrote that Vietnam is “worth a three-week trip of its own”. Vietnam is full of amazing cities to visit, including Da Nang, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and its capital, Hanoi. From the UK, you normally take two flights to Vietnam, usually landing in Hanoi. 

Travelling around Vietnam is pretty affordable, with several cheap flights and sleeper buses taking you from place to place. As well as the thriving cities in Vietnam, there are beautiful spots that tourists regularly fall in love with. 

For example, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site that rivals many of the popular (and often overcrowded) coastal spots in Thailand. It is known for its breathtaking sandy beaches, lush greenery and crystal clear waters. 

Other highlights of Vietnam that make it a worthy rival of Thailand include Sapa, which is known for its levelled rice fields, and Ha Giang, which features gorgeous mountainous terrains that look like they have been ripped from the front of a postcard. 

Comparing Vietnam and Thailand, another tourist shared on Reddit: “I love both Thailand and Vietnam. Vietnam is definitely cheaper than Thailand and the food isn’t quite as good as Thai food but it’s an amazing place.”

While some tourists might be more comfortable sticking to the more touristy Thailand, those with more of a drive for adventure might venture that little bit further and discover what Vietnam has to offer in 2026.