Explera Vacations

Destinations · 8 May 2026 · 6 min read

Thailand vs Vietnam: Which Should Be Your First International Trip?

Two of the easiest, best-value destinations from Surat — compared on visa, budget, beaches, food and family-friendliness.

🌏

Both Thailand and Vietnam are superb first international trips from Surat — easy visas, great value and a mix of city, culture and beaches. Here’s how to choose.

Visa & ease

Both offer simple e-visas. Thailand is slightly more tourist-polished for first-timers; Vietnam’s e-visa is now valid up to 90 days.

Beaches vs scenery

Choose Thailand for Phuket–Krabi islands and buzzing nightlife; choose Vietnam for the emerald limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and lantern-lit Hoi An.

Budget & food

Vietnam is marginally cheaper; both have incredible, vegetarian-friendly food. Indian restaurants are widely available in both.

Still unsure? Our Holidays desk will match the right destination to your dates, budget and travel style.

Let’s plan your journey

Ready to start your next adventure?

Get a personalised quote within 24 hours. Visas, flights, stays and curated holidays — planned end to end by Surat’s IATA-certified team.