Vietnam Travel Tips & Experiences

Vietnam or Thailand: Where should I go?

Thailand and Vietnam - two shining stars of Southeast Asia - have long captured the hearts of travelers from around the world. Both countries are known for their stunning nature, rich culture, tasty food, and friendly people.If you're torn between sipping coconut water on a Thai island or slurping a hot bowl of Pho in a bustling Vietnamese street, you’re not alone. So, which one should you choose for your next big tour? Let’s dive into travel tips & experiences and find out which destination fits your travel style best.[incredible_toc]1. Vietnam or Thailand: Which Country is Cheaper to Travel?When it comes to affordable travel in Southeast Asia, both Vietnam and Thailand are budget-friendly, but if you're really watching your wallet, Vietnam is usually the cheaper option overall.1.1. AccommodationIs Vietnam or Thailand better to visit? In Vietnam, budget travelers can easily find hostels or guesthouses for $6-$10 per night, and even comfortable mid-range hotels or boutique stays for $20-$40. In rural areas or smaller towns like Ninh Binh or Hoi An, prices drop even lower.In Thailand, hostels in cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai start from $8-$12, and mid-range hotels typically range from $30-$60. Island destinations like Phuket or Koh Samui are often more expensive, especially during high season, with even basic rooms starting around $40 or more.Thailand landmark sighseeings1.2. Food & DrinkVietnam is famous for its cheap and delicious street food. You can grab a bowl of Pho, a plate of Com Tam (broken rice), or a Banh Mi for just $1-$2. Local beer (like Bia Saigon or Hanoi Beer) can be as low as $0.50 per bottle in local eateries.Thailand also offers fantastic street food at low prices. Dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, or mango sticky rice are usually $2-$3 from a street stall. However, in touristy places like Phuket or the islands, the same meals can cost $5-$8, especially in sit-down restaurants. Alcohol is also more expensive than in Vietnam, with local beer costing around $1.50-$2.50.Food tour in Vietnam1.3. TransportationGetting around in Vietnam is very affordable. A short ride on a motorbike taxi (Xe Ôm) or Grab bike might cost less than $1, and long-distance sleeper buses or trains are budget-friendly, often $10-$25 for several hours of travel. Domestic flights between cities (like Hanoi to Da Nang) can be found for as low as $25-$50 if booked early.In Thailand, public transport in cities is efficient but slightly more expensive. A BTS Skytrain ride in Bangkok is $1-$2, and domestic flights (like Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Phuket) often cost $30-$70, depending on the time of year. Ferries to the islands also add up, especially if you're hopping between several.Thailand train vs Vietnam train1.4. Attractions & ActivitiesWhich is best Vietnam or Thailand for activities? Many attractions in Vietnam, such as temples, museums, and historical sites, have low entrance fees (often $1-$5). Nature spots like waterfalls, rice terraces, or beaches are often free or very cheap to access. Guided tours (like Mekong Delta day trips or Halong Bay cruises) are reasonably priced.Thailand has many tours and experiences, but popular activities like island-hopping tours, elephant sanctuaries, or cooking classes can be more expensive, typically $30-$80 per tour.2. Food: Vietnamese or Thai - Which Tastes Better?Both Vietnamese and Thai food are world-famous, and for good reason. They’ve appeared in numerous global food rankings like CNN’s ‘World’s 50 Best Foods’ and have received international awards and recognition for their flavors, diversity, and street food culture.2.1. Vietnamese Food: Fresh, Light & BalancedVietnamese cuisine is all about balance and freshness. Dishes are often low in oil and use plenty of fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice-based ingredients. The flavors are clean, not overly spicy or rich, but still full of depth thanks to staples like fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili.Many meals focus on a balance of sweet, salty, sour, and umami, often letting diners adjust the flavor to their liking with condiments at the table.Popular Vietnamese dishes:Pho - A light, aromatic noodle soup served with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, lime, and chili on the side. A staple breakfast for locals.Banh Mi - A crunchy baguette filled with grilled meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili. A fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors.Bun Cha - Grilled pork patties and pork belly served with rice noodles, fresh greens, and a sweet-savory dipping sauce.Goi Cuon - Fresh spring rolls packed with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and herbs, wrapped in soft rice paper.Com Tam - Broken rice served with grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled vegetables.Cao Lau on Cai Rang Floating Market VietnamEven coffee in Vietnam has a signature twist. Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) is strong, sweet, and refreshing, a must-try for caffeine lovers.Why travelers love it:Vietnamese food is healthy, thanks to the use of herbs and vegetables.Flavors are gentle and customizable.It’s affordable and easy to find, from street vendors to home-style restaurants.2.2. Thai Food: Bold, Spicy & Flavor-PackedThai food is typically spicier and richer than Vietnamese food, especially in southern Thailand. But it’s also very diverse, from the sweet-and-sour balance of tom yum soup to the creamy comfort of Thai curries. It uses a wide range of ingredients from fragrant herbs like lemongrass and Thai basil to rich coconut milk, chili, and fish sauce, often in one dish.Popular Thai dishes:Pad Thai - Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp or chicken, egg, tofu, and peanuts in a sweet-savory tamarind sauce.Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan) - Creamy, spicy curry made with green chili paste, coconut milk, chicken, eggplant, and sweet basil.Tom Yum Goong - A hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, galangal, lime, and chili.Som Tam - Spicy green papaya salad with peanuts, lime juice, fish sauce, and chilies.Mango Sticky Rice - A famous dessert of sweet coconut milk-infused sticky rice served with ripe mango slices.Pad Thai on Boat VendorWhy travelers love it:Thai food is bold and exciting, with layers of flavor in every bite.Spice lovers rejoice, Thai food brings the heat.Great variety from region to region, from the coconut-rich curries of the south to the herb-forward dishes of the north.3. Best Beaches: Vietnam or Thailand?This is one of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a Southeast Asia trip. Thailand is often the first choice when it comes to beach holidays. The country has hundreds of islands, ranging from world-famous destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi, to lesser-known gems like Koh Lipe. These beaches are known for their soft white sand, turquoise water, and vibrant nightlife. You’ll find everything from full moon parties to peaceful wellness resorts. Island hopping is easy and well-organized, with boat connections running frequently between many islands.Phuket Beaches in ThailandIn contrast, Vietnam’s beaches are still somewhat underrated, but that’s changing fast. The country has over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, offering everything from lively beach cities like Nha Trang and Da Nang to quiet retreats on islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao. While the infrastructure isn’t as developed as in Thailand, Vietnamese beaches tend to be more peaceful, less touristy, and often more affordable. They also offer a unique mix of beach and culture, with historic towns like Hoi An or Hue nearby.>> So, Vietnam or Thailand beaches are better? If you love energetic beach towns, buzzing nightlife, and easy access to island adventures, Thailand is a solid choice. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience with beautiful scenery and good value, Vietnam might surprise you, in the best way.4. Vietnam or Thailand: What Can You See and Learn?Thailand and Vietnam are both rich in culture and history. But what you’ll see and learn in each country is quite different.In Thailand, religion and tradition play a big role. You’ll see golden temples everywhere, especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya. You can learn about Buddhism, watch monks in the early morning, or even join a meditation class. Thai culture also includes Muay Thai boxing, traditional dance shows, and cooking classes, which many tourists love. You’ll also find royal palaces and ancient ruins that tell stories of Thailand’s kings and kingdoms.Many activities in ThailandIn Vietnam, the culture is shaped by a long and complex history. You can visit old cities like Hue and Hanoi, explore French colonial buildings, and walk around ancient citadels and pagodas. Vietnam’s past includes many wars, and you can learn about them at places like the War Remnants Museum or the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. In the countryside, you can try rice farming, go fishing with locals, or meet ethnic minorities in the northern mountains.Hoi An Ancient Town in VietnamIn general, Thailand feels more polished and tourist-friendly, while Vietnam feels more local and real, especially in smaller towns and villages.>> So, which is better?Choose Thailand if you want to see beautiful temples, join cultural shows, and relax in a calm spiritual atmosphere.Pick Vietnam if you’re curious about history, want to meet local people, and enjoy seeing everyday life up close.5. Which Country has Better Scenery?5.1. Beaches & IslandsThailand is well-known for its tropical beaches and islands. Places like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui have soft white sand, clear blue water, and great spots for snorkeling or diving. These destinations are very developed for tourism, with lots of resorts and beach bars.Vietnam also has beautiful beaches such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc Island. Phu Quoc is growing fast, but in general, Vietnam's beaches are quieter and more relaxed. The water might not always be as clear as in Thailand, but you’ll often find fewer tourists.Koh Phi Phi Island in Thailand>> Thailand is better if you’re looking for picture-perfect islands with lots of tourist services. Vietnam is a good choice if you want peaceful, less crowded beaches.5.2. Mountains and ValleysNorthern Vietnam offers dramatic mountain views and rice terraces, especially in Sapa and Ha Giang. The mountains are steep and wild, and many villages are home to ethnic minority communities. These areas are great for trekking and cultural experiences.Northern Thailand also has mountains, especially around Chiang Mai and Pai. The scenery here is softer, with green hills, forests, and rivers. It’s a nice area for relaxed nature trips and outdoor activities.Ha Giang Scenery>> Vietnam is better for impressive mountain views and adventurous treks. Thailand is great if you prefer gentle landscapes and easy-going trips.6. Getting Around: Which Country is Easier to Travel?6.1. Transport OptionsThailand has a more developed tourist infrastructure. You can find good roads, regular domestic flights, and easy connections between cities and islands. Trains in Thailand are comfortable, especially the overnight ones between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. In popular areas like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, there are organized transfers and ferries that run smoothly.Tuk-tuk - the popular transport in ThailandVietnam also has many travel options, including domestic flights, buses, and trains. Major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City are connected by low-cost airlines. However, train services are slower and older than in Thailand. Roads in Vietnam can be busy and chaotic, especially in cities. Long-distance buses are common, but sometimes less comfortable for tourists.6.2. Getting Around CitiesIn Thai cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, public transport like the Skytrain (BTS), subway (MRT), and tuk-tuks make it easy to get around. Rideshare apps like Grab are widely used.In Vietnam, cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are mostly traveled by taxi, motorbike taxi, or Grab. There are no subways (except for the new metro in HCMC that’s partly open), and traffic can be heavy. However, many travelers enjoy renting scooters or taking guided motorbike tours.>> Thailand is usually easier for first-time travelers, especially if you want to book things on the go or travel between islands. Vietnam requires a bit more planning, especially in rural areas.7. FAQs - Vietnam or Thailand?Q1: Is Vietnam or Thailand cheaper?A: In general, Vietnam is slightly cheaper than Thailand for food, transport, and accommodation. You can find local meals in Vietnam for just a couple of dollars. Thailand is still very affordable, but popular tourist areas can be more expensive.Q2: Is it easy to travel in Vietnam or Thailand without joining a tour?A: Yes, both countries are easy to explore on your own. However, Thailand is more beginner-friendly with better infrastructure and more English-speaking locals. In Vietnam, things can be more challenging but more adventurous.Tam Coc boat tourQ3: Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam or Thailand?A: It depends on your nationality. Thailand offers visa-free entry to many countries for 30 to 45 days. Vietnam also has visa waivers for some countries, but many travelers need to apply for an e-visa. Check the latest info before you go.Q4: Can I visit both countries in one trip?A: Yes! Many travelers combine Thailand and Vietnam in one trip. There are direct flights between Bangkok and major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. You just need to plan your visa and flights in advance.Titop beach in Halong BayQ5: Which is Better for Nightlife: Thailand or Vietnam?Thailand is better for nightlife if you're looking for energy, variety, and late-night fun with beach parties, rooftop bars, nightclubs, and all-night entertainment. Cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket are full of action, and islands like Koh Phangan host legendary Full Moon Parties that attract thousands of travelers.Choosing to visit Vietnam or Thailand, two of Southeast Asia’s brightest travel destinations, is not easy. If you are still unsure, why not visit both? Incredible Asia Journeys is here to help you plan the perfect trip. Contact us today for a free quote and start your adventure in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam or Laos: Which One to Visit?

When talking about travel in Southeast Asia, countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam often come to mind. Among them, Laos and Vietnam, two neighboring countries located next to each other, bring completely different experiences. If you're deciding between the two, the best choice is to visit both Laos and Vietnam together. But if time only allows for one, this guide will help you answer the question: Vietnam or Laos – which one is better to visit for you?[incredible_toc]1. Overview: Vietnam vs Laos Travel ComparisonVietnam and Laos are next to each other in Southeast Asia, but they feel very different when you visit and travel there.Vietnam is a long and narrow country with an S-shaped coastline along the sea. It has big cities like Hanoi in the north, Da Nang in the center, and Ho Chi Minh City in the south, as well as beaches, mountains, and rice fields. It’s said that Vietnam is busy and full of energy, with many people, motorbikes, and street markets. Vietnamese culture is a mix of local traditions and influences from China and France, which you can see in the food, buildings, and daily life.Laos and Vietnam borderLaos, on the other hand, has no coastline and is smaller and quieter. Most of the country is covered with mountains, rivers, and forests. Life moves slowly here in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, etc. Laotian people are friendly, and many follow the Buddhist way of life. You’ll find peaceful temples, local villages, and beautiful nature all around.2. Travel Costs - Which is Cheaper: Vietnam or Laos?Is Laos cheaper than Vietnam? When it comes to traveling on a budget, both Vietnam and Laos are great choices. However, if we compare them side by side, Laos is usually a bit cheaper, especially for basic needs like accommodation and food. But Vietnam often offers more value for what you pay, thanks to better transport and more variety in services.About accommodation, Vietnam has many options. You can find a clean dorm bed in a hostel for around $10 to $20 per night. A comfortable hotel room in the city center usually costs $30 to $50. In Laos, guesthouses are often cheaper, with beds starting at $6 to $10 and private rooms around $20 to $30. So if you're a budget traveler, Laos may help you save a few dollars each night.Food is cheap in both countries, but Vietnam is famous for its street food culture. A bowl of Pho or a Banh Mi sandwich costs only $1.50 to $2.50, and you can easily eat well for less than $10 a day. In Laos, local dishes like Laap or Noodle Soup are similarly priced, often $1 to $2. However, Laos has fewer street food stalls than Vietnam, especially in smaller towns. One bonus in Laos is the beer, a big bottle of Beerlao costs only $1, so-called the cheapest local beer in Asia.Luang Prabang StreetTransportation is where Vietnam has an advantage. It has a more developed network of buses, trains, and domestic flights. For example, a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Hue (about 12 hours) costs around $15 to $20. In Laos, buses are cheaper, but often slower and less comfortable. A trip from Luang Prabang to Vientiane may cost $12 to $15, but the journey can take much longer because of winding mountain roads.Entrance fees and tours are generally affordable in both countries. Museums and temples usually cost $1 to $5, and day tours range from $20 to $50, depending on the activity. In Laos, simple day trips like waterfall visits or village tours can be a bit cheaper than in Vietnam.3. Which Country Has Better Food - Vietnam or Laos?Food is one of the best parts of traveling, and both Vietnam and Laos have delicious local dishes to try. While Vietnamese cuisine is more famous worldwide with many awards, Laotian food also has its own charm with fresh herbs, sticky rice, and bold flavors. Let’s look at the top dishes and food experiences in each country.3.1. Top Dishes in VietnamVietnamese cuisine focuses on the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Dishes often use a lot of fresh vegetables, herbs, fish sauce, and little oil. Some famous dishes include Pho - a delicious broth soup with soft rice noodles and beef or chicken, Banh Mi - crispy bread with a variety of fillings, and Bun Cha - grilled meat served with fresh rice noodles and mixed fish sauce. Have a meal in VietnamDepending on the region, the dishes can vary in preparation and flavor, but in general, they are easy to eat and suitable for many tourists. Seafood is also a strength of Vietnam, especially in coastal cities such as Halong Bay, Nha Trang, Da Nang, or Phu Quoc.3.2. Top Dishes in LaosLao cuisine feels more rustic and home-style. Lao cuisine often uses local ingredients, with many dishes spicy and rich in herbs. Sticky rice is the main ingredient in most meals, often rolled into small balls to be dipped in other dishes. A typical dish is Laap (or Larb) - a minced meat salad mixed with lime juice, chili, mint, and roasted rice powder.Local meal in LaosIn addition, Mok Pa (steamed fish in banana leaves), Tam Mak Hoong (spicy papaya salad), and the Lao version of Khao Soi (noodles with tomato sauce and minced meat) are popular and traditional dishes. The taste of Lao food is often saltier and spicier than Vietnamese food.3.3. Street Food vs Local Markets in Vietnam & LaosVietnam is famous for its vibrant street food culture, which has won numerous awards around the world. Visitors can easily find cheap and delicious food at sidewalk stalls, small carts, or night markets. Each city in Vietnam has its specialty, from Pho in Hanoi to Cao Lau in Hoi An. In Laos, street food is less popular, but local markets and night markets are the places to explore local flavors. At the night markets in Luang Prabang or Vientiane, visitors can try grilled meat, sweet soups, fresh fruit, and smoothies, all with rich flavors and a feeling of closeness to a country house meal.Many shops on Hanoi Street4. Sightseeing - Vietnam or Laos for Scenic Beauty?When it comes to natural beauty, both Vietnam and Laos are full of breathtaking landscapes.4.1. Mountains, Caves & WaterfallsIf you are looking for places with majestic mountains and forests, Vietnam and Laos both meet this criterion. In Vietnam, places like Sapa and Ha Giang offer mountain views with rice terraces and ethnic villages. The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to some of the largest and most beautiful caves in the world, including the famous Son Doong Cave.In Laos, the scenery feels more remote and peaceful in northern areas like Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi have dramatic limestone cliffs and quiet riverside views. Kuang Si Waterfalls near Luang Prabang are one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia, with bright turquoise pools perfect for swimming.Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang4.2. Beaches & Islands - Only in VietnamWhen it comes to beaches, Vietnam clearly has the upper hand. With a long coastline stretching over 3,000 kilometers, it’s home to many beautiful beach towns and islands. Some favorites include Halong Bay, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and the tropical paradise Phu Quoc Island. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or just relax under palm trees by the sea.Cu Lao Cham Beach (Cham Island) near Hoi AnLaos, being landlocked, has no ocean or real beaches, but it does have relaxing riverside towns like Si Phan Don (4000 Islands), where travelers can chill in hammocks by the Mekong River. It’s not the same as a beach, but it offers a fresh escape with a laid-back vibe.4.3. National Parks &  EcotourismWhat more can you say about such beautiful nature? Both Vietnam and Laos are paradises for those who love green forests, wildlife, and “green” trips. For a trekking enthusiast, an animal lover, or just wants to breathe fresh air in the mountains, these two countries have “nature’s gifts” for you.Vietnam has a rich and quite developed national park system. Names like Cuc Phuong, Cat Tien, or Ba Be organize activities such as trekking through the forest, observing wildlife, and staying overnight at local homestays. Some places also combine education and conservation, very suitable for families or groups of friends who love nature.Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang (Vietnam)Meanwhile, Laos retains its typical wildness. Here, you can join an eco-tour in Nam Et-Phou Louey, which offers night safaris to track wild animals, or experience the flooded forest in Xe Pian, where birds and crocodiles roam freely. Activities often take place in a quiet, rustic atmosphere, giving the feeling of exploring an untouched primeval forest.5. Things to do - Vietnam or Laos for Active Travelers?If you're the kind of traveler who likes to keep moving, both Vietnam and Laos have loads of fun and adventure.5.1. Trekking, Caving, and BikingIn Vietnam, you can hike through the stunning rice terraces in Sapa, explore the vast caves of Phong Nha, or cycle around peaceful villages in Ninh Binh or the Mekong Delta. There’s something for every fitness level, from a casual countryside ride to serious jungle treks.Laos is more laid-back but just as beautiful. Trekking around Luang Namtha or the hills of Muang Ngoi gives you a real local feel. It’s common to pass through ethnic minority villages and even stay overnight in homestays. Caving fans can explore Kong Lor Cave, a 7-kilometer underground river journey.Trekking in Laos5.2. Kayaking & River CruisesVietnam’s Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay Cruise Tour are famous for kayaking among limestone karsts, while Mekong Delta cruises take you through floating markets and coconut groves.In Laos, the mighty Mekong River also plays a big role. You can kayak around Vang Vieng’s cliffs and blue lagoons or take a slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang, watching life unfold along the riverbanks. Kayaking in Halong Bay5.3. Unique Local ExperiencesFor something local, Vietnam is known for its cooking classes, lantern-making in Hoi An, and motorbike tours through mountain passes like the Ha Giang Loop. You’ll never run out of hands-on ways to connect with the culture.Laos keeps things more traditional. Join a Baci Ceremony, learn how to make sticky rice the Lao way, or take part in a textile weaving workshop in Luang Prabang. These small, authentic moments are often the ones travelers remember most.Traditional Baci Ceremony in Laos6. Transportation: How to Get to Vietnam or Laos?6.1. International FlightsVietnam has several major international airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang that serve flights from across Asia, Europe, Australia, and even North America. Budget airlines and international carriers fly in daily, making Vietnam one of Southeast Asia’s most connected countries.Laos, meanwhile, has fewer options. The main international gateway is Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, with smaller airports in Luang Prabang and Pakse also receiving some international flights, mostly from nearby hubs like Bangkok, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore. Flights tend to be more limited and often pricier in Laos tour packages.Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City6.2. Land BordersIf you're already in Southeast Asia, traveling overland is very doable. How to get to Laos from Vietnam? Vietnam and Laos share several land border crossings. Popular routes from Vietnam to Laos by land include:Hanoi to Vientiane by bus or private transferHue or Da Nang to SavannakhetDien Bien Phu to Muang Khua (great for backpackers heading to northern Laos)6.3. TrainsVietnam has a well-developed train network, including the famous Reunification Express from north to south Vietnam. Trains are affordable, scenic, and great for long-distance travel.Laos only recently added its first modern train line - the Laos-China Railway, which connects Vientiane to Luang Prabang and beyond.Laos Train7. Vietnam or Laos - Which One to Visit First?If you are wondering whether to go to Vietnam or Laos first, think about the travel style you like.>> Choose Vietnam first if...You want to experience a variety of things in just one trip: from long sunny beaches to majestic mountains, from bustling cities to peaceful villages. Vietnam is an ideal destination for those who love to explore the bustling atmosphere, rich cuisine, bustling night markets and convenient transportation between famous destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An or Can Tho. If you don't have too much time, Vietnam offers many options in just a few days.Trang An Boat Tour (Ninh Binh)>> Choose Laos first if...You love nature, quiet space, and a slow pace of life. Laos is not as vibrant as Vietnam, but has its own appeal thanks to its wild landscape, strong Buddhist culture, and close experiences with the local community. From the ancient capital of Luang Prabang to the mountainous region of Nong Khiaw or the Mekong Delta, Laos is suitable for those who want to connect more deeply with nature and seek true relaxation.Patuxay Gate in Vientiane Laos>> Ideally, do bothIf time permits, combine both Vietnam and Laos in the same itinerary. You can start from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, then take a bus, train, or short flight to Laos. Starting in Vietnam helps you get into the rhythm of the journey quickly, and then ending in the gentle and peacefulness of Laos is a popular choice for many tourists.8. FAQ – Vietnam or Laos8.1. Which country is cheaper to visit, Vietnam or Laos?At first glance, Laos might seem cheaper; guesthouses, street food, and even tours in smaller towns are often very budget-friendly. But once you start moving around, the costs can add up. Flights in Laos are limited and quite pricey, and buses can be slow and not always reliable. Vietnam, on the other hand, might feel a bit busier and more developed, but getting around is easier and often cheaper, with lots of domestic flights, trains, and even sleeper buses. So while day-to-day living might cost less in Laos, Vietnam gives you better value when you want to see more places in a short time.8.2. Is it easy to travel between Vietnam and Laos?Yes. You can cross the border by bus, train, or plane. The most popular overland routes are from Hanoi to Luang Prabang, or from central Vietnam (like Hue or Da Nang) to southern Laos.8.3. Is it better to start in Vietnam or Laos?If you like fast-paced travel with lots of sights, start in Vietnam. If you want to ease into your trip with calm and quiet, start in Laos. Many travelers combine both for a well-balanced journey.8.4. Which country is better, Laos or Vietnam?If the choice comes down to just one, Vietnam is the better pick for most travelers with more variety, better transport, amazing food, and a mix of cities, beaches, and mountains. While Laos is peaceful and less touristy, Vietnam simply has more to see and do in one trip.Hue Imperial City in VietnamHopefully, you’ve found your answer to whether Vietnam or Laos is the right destination for you, with the above-mentioned differences between Laos and Vietnam. If you're still unsure or need more personalized advice, feel free to reach out to us. Incredible Asia Journeys would be happy to help you assess your travel style and suggest the best options based on your interests and travel plans.