which is better place to visit bali or vietnam

• Indonesia , Vietnam
• Bali , Vietnam

Bali vs. Vietnam

Table of Contents

Picture yourself stepping into a mesmerizing land of temples, or imagine walking through buzzing streets imprinted with the footprints of time. Whether it’s the spirituality that Bali emanates or the rich past that Vietnam radiates, both destinations are packed with unique allure. Are you ready to dive deep into the historical and cultural nuances of these intriguing places?

History & Culture

History and culture are like threads woven into the fabric of a destination, adding color and texture. They’re the soul of the place, visible in its architecture, customs, and the stories the locals tell. Now, let’s look at the historical and cultural aspects of Bali and Vietnam.

Bali, an island in Indonesia, has a history that stretches back over 2000 years. Ancient kingdoms, diverse ethnicities, and varied religious influences have shaped Bali’s unique culture. Its historical tapestry is rich with Hindu-Buddhist traditions, royal dynasties, and influences from Dutch colonial times.

As you traverse Bali, you’ll feel a deep sense of spirituality and artistic beauty embodied in every temple, every ritual, and every dance performance.

Vietnam, nestled on the eastern edge of the Indochina Peninsula, tells a different story. Its history, spanning over 4000 years, is marked by periods of Chinese, French, and American occupation, interspersed with fierce struggles for independence.

This has given Vietnam an incredibly resilient and multi-faceted culture. From its folk music echoing stories of the past, to the charming blend of architectural styles, Vietnam narrates a compelling tale of cultural synthesis and survival.

Comparing Bali and Vietnam is like contrasting a serene painting with a pulsating melody. Bali is characterized by a tranquil, spiritual aura, while Vietnam exhibits a lively cultural dynamism. Both are rich in history and culture, yet their expressions are beautifully diverse.

However, there isn’t a clear ‘better’ or ‘worse’ between the two. Bali might appeal to those seeking a peaceful, spiritual retreat steeped in tradition, whereas Vietnam might attract those yearning for a vivid, immersive cultural experience packed with historical layers.

To summarize, Bali and Vietnam are two compelling destinations, each boasting a rich history and vibrant culture. Will you choose the tranquil spiritual charm of Bali, or would you prefer the dynamic cultural tapestry of Vietnam? That’s a decision only you can make.

Attractions & Activities

Attractions and activities in a destination breathe life into your travel experience. They shape your journey, offer memorable moments, and create the stories you’ll share when you return home. As we explore the attractions and activities of Bali and Vietnam, you’ll find that each offers a unique set of experiences.

In Bali, your adventure might begin at the Pura Tanah Lot, an iconic sea temple that sits majestically on a rock formation off the coast. You could immerse yourself in a soothing yoga retreat, or perhaps trek up Mount Batur at dawn, greeting the sun as it illuminates the stunning landscape.

And for the art enthusiasts, Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, with its art markets, museums, and studios, is a paradise waiting to be discovered.

Over in Vietnam, the attractions promise a different flavor of excitement. In the capital city of Hanoi, you could stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, stopping at Ngoc Son Temple for a dose of tranquility amidst the urban buzz. Venturing into Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace offer glimpses into the country’s tumultuous past.

For nature enthusiasts, a boat tour through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, dotted with limestone karsts, is an experience not to be missed.

In essence, the attractions in Bali revolve around its natural beauty and spiritual heritage, offering a tranquil and reflective journey. Vietnam, meanwhile, presents a blend of historical sites, bustling cities, and breathtaking natural vistas, serving up a dynamic and diverse experience.

Both Bali and Vietnam offer captivating attractions and activities, but they cater to different tastes. If you’re seeking peace, spirituality, and a slower pace of life, Bali has your name on it. For those craving a vibrant mix of history, city life, and nature, Vietnam is calling. Your choice depends on the type of traveler you are!

Nothing quite compares to the feel of warm sand beneath your feet and the sight of endless waves lapping at the shore. A destination’s beaches often become the highlight of a trip for many travelers. Now let’s dive into the sands of Bali and Vietnam.

Bali’s beaches are famous worldwide, each one unique in its own right. Kuta Beach, for instance, is popular among surfers, with waves reaching as high as 6 feet (about 1.8 meters). Seminyak Beach, about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away from Kuta, is renowned for its spectacular sunsets that color the sky in hues of orange and pink.

For a serene and less crowded beach experience, you could head to Sanur Beach, located 7 miles (about 11.3 kilometers) from Seminyak.

Vietnam, on the other hand, offers an extensive coastline dotted with beaches that are lesser known but just as enchanting. The crescent-shaped Nha Trang Beach, about 275 miles (442 kilometers) from Ho Chi Minh City, boasts clear turquoise waters ideal for snorkeling.

Further north, about 326 miles (525 kilometers) from Nha Trang, is Da Nang Beach, which offers an unspoiled sandy stretch perfect for long, peaceful walks.

In a nutshell, Bali’s beaches are characterized by their vibrant beach life and breathtaking sunsets, offering a lively and captivating experience. Vietnam’s beaches are less commercialized, providing tranquil spaces for relaxation and a more laid-back beach experience.

Choosing between Bali’s lively, renowned beaches and Vietnam’s tranquil, unspoiled stretches of sand comes down to your preference. Are you longing for a vibrant beach scene, or do you crave serene, untouched shores? The choice is in your hands.

Eating, Drinking & Nightlife

Food, drink, and nightlife contribute significantly to the overall travel experience, adding flavors and rhythms to your journey. As you explore the culinary scene and after-hours excitement in Bali and Vietnam, you’ll find each destination is a feast for the senses in its own right.

In Bali, the dining experience is as diverse as the island itself. From roadside warungs offering traditional dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay, to high-end restaurants serving international cuisine, there’s a plate for every palate. For a truly unique experience, try a Balinese cooking class where you can learn to create these local delights yourself.

Vietnam’s culinary landscape is a mix of flavors and textures, with dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), and spring rolls delighting taste buds in street stalls and local eateries alike. For foodies interested in Vietnamese cuisine, joining a street food tour in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh is a must-do.

When it comes to drinks, Bali’s offerings range from tropical cocktails to local wines made from rice and fruits. Don’t forget to try Bali’s coffee, known for its strong, rich flavor.

Alternatively, Vietnam is famous for its local beers, which are served chilled and often enjoyed street-side in the evenings. Also, Vietnamese coffee, usually served with condensed milk, is an experience in itself.

As the sun sets, Bali transforms into a vibrant playground. Beach clubs and bars in areas like Kuta and Seminyak offer live music, dance floors, and seaside views. In contrast, Vietnam’s nightlife scene is a mix of old and new, with modern rooftop bars offering stunning city views and traditional water puppet shows captivating audiences.

In summary, Bali offers a diverse food scene, refreshing drinks, and a lively beach-centered nightlife. Vietnam entices with its flavorful street food, local beers, and a varied nightlife that mixes traditional and modern experiences. The choice comes down to your personal preferences.

Shopping can be an exciting part of any trip, offering you the chance to explore local markets, discover unique finds, and take home a piece of your journey. As you navigate the shopping scenes of Bali and Vietnam, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge your inner shopaholic.

Bali is a treasure trove for shoppers, particularly in artsy Ubud. Here, local markets brim with handcrafted jewelry, wooden sculptures, and traditional batik fabrics. For a unique souvenir, consider purchasing a Balinese mask, each one meticulously hand-painted and unique. In Seminyak, upscale boutiques offer everything from designer wear to high-quality homewares.

In Vietnam, shopping is an adventure in cultural immersion. In the bustling markets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find everything from traditional silk fabrics and hand-embroidered items to lacquerware and ceramics.

Be sure to check out the local art scene, especially in Hanoi, where galleries showcase stunning works of art, from traditional Vietnamese silk paintings to modern contemporary pieces.

In conclusion, whether it’s Bali with its artsy markets and unique handicrafts, or Vietnam with its vibrant local markets and rich selection of traditional goods, each offers a unique shopping experience. Which one appeals to you more? The choice is yours to make!

Accommodation

Finding the perfect place to stay is an integral part of any trip. Both Bali and Vietnam provide an array of accommodations to suit various tastes and budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

In Bali, you can experience the height of luxury in world-class resorts dotting the coastline, particularly in areas like Seminyak and Nusa Dua. For a unique stay, consider a private villa nestled amidst the lush rice terraces of Ubud. Budget-conscious travelers can find a host of affordable yet comfortable homestays, perfect for soaking up local culture.

Contrastingly, Vietnam offers a broad spectrum of accommodations. In major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, you can opt for modern hotels featuring a blend of Eastern and Western designs. Quaint guesthouses located in the ancient town of Hoi An or the mountains of Sapa offer a more traditional and cozy experience.

Also, Vietnam is known for its affordable hostels, making it a great choice for backpackers.

In a nutshell, Bali’s accommodation options lean towards luxury and tropical charm, while Vietnam provides a range of choices from city-based hotels to homely guesthouses. Where would you like to rest your head at night?

Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities

Traveling with family, especially with kids, requires careful planning to ensure fun and safety for all. Bali and Vietnam both boast a range of family-friendly destinations and activities that promise memorable experiences for everyone.

In Bali, the Bali Safari And Marine Park provides a fun-filled day with its exciting safari tours and water rides. Visit the interactive eco-park Green School in Ubud, where kids can learn about sustainability while having fun. Bali’s beach clubs often have dedicated kids’ sections, so you can relax while the little ones play safely.

Vietnam also has plenty to offer younger travelers. In Hanoi, the Museum of Ethnology features engaging exhibits and outdoor play areas that kids will love. The Vinpearl Amusement Park in Nha Trang is a fun-filled destination with rides, water parks, and an aquarium. A boat trip along the Mekong Delta offers an interactive way for kids to learn about local life.

Summarily, both Bali with its mix of outdoor activities and educational experiences, and Vietnam with its engaging museums and amusement parks, make for fantastic family-friendly destinations. Which one will your family love more?

Getting There & Getting Around

Travel logistics, including getting to your destination and exploring locally, are key aspects of any travel plan. Whether you choose Bali or Vietnam, it’s crucial to understand your transport options.

Reaching Bali typically involves flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport, about 8 miles (approximately 13 kilometers) south of Denpasar, the island’s capital. Direct flights are available from many international cities.

On the other hand, Vietnam has several international airports, with Noi Bai in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City being the major ones. Direct flights to Vietnam are available from select locations worldwide.

Once in Bali, taxis and hired drivers are common ways to get around. Alternatively, renting a motorbike is popular among travelers, but remember to drive safely! Bicycles are also a viable option, particularly in quieter areas like Ubud.

In Vietnam, taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are prevalent in cities. For shorter distances, cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) are a unique, albeit slower, mode of transport. Intercity travel is commonly done by train or bus.

To conclude, both Bali and Vietnam offer fairly straightforward travel logistics with a variety of local transportation options. Would you prefer zipping around on a motorbike in Bali or navigating Vietnam’s streets in a cyclo? It’s all part of your unique travel adventure!

Your vacation experience can greatly be influenced by the weather, making it a crucial factor when planning your trip. Here’s a rundown of the typical weather patterns in Bali and Vietnam to guide your travel decisions.

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from April to October, and the rainy season from November to March. Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year, averaging around 80°F (27°C). You’ll find the dry season is the best time to explore Bali’s beaches and outdoor attractions.

Vietnam, on the other hand, is characterized by a complex climate due to its elongated geography. In the north, like in Hanoi, there are four seasons, with hot, humid summers (June to September) and cool, dry winters (December to February).

Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, experiences a tropical climate with a rainy season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. Temperatures here typically hover around 82-95°F (28-35°C).

In essence, both destinations offer year-round warmth. However, the timing of the rainy and dry seasons in Bali and Vietnam might sway your decision on the best time to visit.

Safety is paramount when choosing a travel destination. Both Bali and Vietnam are generally considered safe for tourists, but each has unique considerations.

In Bali, petty theft like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. It’s important to keep your belongings secure at all times. Another unique safety concern in Bali is the presence of active volcanoes. Always heed local advice regarding volcanic activity and safe distances.

Vietnam also has low levels of serious crime, but you should still watch out for petty theft. It’s also worth noting that traffic in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be chaotic. If you’re not used to the traffic patterns, it’s safer to use taxis or rideshare services rather than attempting to drive yourself.

In summary, both Bali and Vietnam are relatively safe destinations, but keeping vigilant about your belongings and staying aware of local conditions can ensure a trouble-free vacation.

Budgeting is an important part of travel planning. Here’s a look at how your wallet might fare in Bali versus Vietnam.

In Bali, you can expect to pay around 50,000 IDR (approximately $3.50) for a local meal. A night in a budget guesthouse could cost around 150,000 IDR ($10), while luxury resorts start from 1,000,000 IDR ($70) per night. Transportation costs are variable, but a short taxi ride generally won’t exceed 70,000 IDR ($5).

Vietnam is also a budget-friendly destination. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around 50,000 VND (approximately $2.20), while a night in a budget hotel can range from 200,000 VND ($8.50). For luxury hotels, prices start from 1,500,000 VND ($65). As for transportation, a short taxi journey usually costs about 100,000 VND ($4.30).

All in all, both Bali and Vietnam are affordable travel destinations. Your final budget will ultimately depend on your travel style and the level of luxury you prefer. Now, where will your travel funds take you?

Which Is Better – Bali or Vietnam?

Deciding between Bali and Vietnam is like choosing between two different flavors of the same delightful treat. Both offer enchanting experiences yet with distinct twists that make each destination uniquely appealing.

When it comes to history and culture, Bali’s centuries-old temples and deep-rooted traditions offer an immersive experience. Vietnam, with its intricate blend of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences, serves as a grand stage for cultural discovery. If you are keen on stepping back in time, the ancient historical sites of Vietnam might be your preferred choice.

For adventure seekers, Bali stands out with its thrill-seeking water sports and jungle treks. Yet, Vietnam doesn’t fall short with its bustling city life, serene countryside bike rides, and memorable cave explorations. If your idea of an activity-filled vacation leans more towards nature and adventure, Bali should top your list.

Bali is undeniably the go-to destination for beach lovers with its pristine sands and turquoise waters. Vietnam, while offering some nice coastal escapes, is better known for its dramatic landscapes than its beaches. So, if basking on a sun-drenched beach is a top priority for you, Bali has your name written all over it.

Eating, drinking, and nightlife bring forth the pulsating heart of both destinations. Bali draws food lovers with its flavorful cuisine and vibrant nightlife scene. Vietnam is equally compelling, with its street food culture and lively beer scenes. Yet, if nightlife is high on your agenda, Bali’s renowned party spots might be the deciding factor.

Shopping enthusiasts can find treasures in both places. Bali, with its array of artisan crafts and homeware, is perfect for unique souvenirs. Vietnam offers a vast selection of custom-tailored clothes and locally made handicrafts. If you’re searching for distinctive fashion items, Vietnam’s custom tailoring services might just tip the balance in its favor.

Accommodations in both destinations cater to a variety of budgets, offering everything from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. However, family-friendliness and children’s activities seem to be more prominent in Bali, making it a more attractive choice for family vacations.

In terms of getting there and around, both destinations have well-connected international airports and offer a range of local transportation options. Bali might have a slight edge for travelers who prefer navigating by taxis or rental cars, while Vietnam’s train travel offers a different kind of experience.

When we talk about weather, Bali offers more predictability with its consistent tropical climate, whereas Vietnam’s weather can vary greatly from north to south. If you prefer predictability and year-round warmth, Bali is your best bet.

In terms of safety, both destinations are generally safe with low crime rates. Unique considerations like Bali’s active volcanoes or Vietnam’s chaotic traffic can be managed with caution and local advice.

Cost-wise, both Bali and Vietnam are affordable travel destinations. Your decision might boil down to whether you’re more inclined towards enjoying luxurious resorts in Bali or relishing the rich street food culture in Vietnam.

In the end, the choice between Bali and Vietnam depends largely on what you value most in your travel experience. Whether it’s the allure of Bali’s beaches and spiritual charm or the cultural depth and diverse landscapes of Vietnam, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

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• Bali Vs Vietnam In 2024: A Brutally Honest Comparison

Bali vs Vietnam in 2024: A Brutally Honest Comparison

Bali and Vietnam have long been attracting tourists from around the world. Both possess incredible beauty, diverse cultural experiences, and warm hospitality. However, they each have their own unique charms that might make one more suitable than the other, depending on what you are looking for in a travel destination. Let’s compare these two countries with all those aspects that will help you decide between booking a  Vietnam package and a  Bali tour package .

Geography of Bali and Vietnam

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its lush landscapes made up of volcanic mountains, rice paddies, and rainforests. The island's beaches are widely popular among surfers for their beautiful waves and pristine sands. Bali's main attractions include towns such as  Ubud for its art scene and traditional craftsmanship,  Kuta for its bustling nightlife, and  Seminyak for its luxury hotels and restaurants.

On the other hand, Vietnam stretches over 1,000 miles along the eastern coast of the Indochinese peninsula and boasts a diverse landscape ranging from pristine beaches to rugged mountains. The country features key locations such as  Ho Chi Minh City in the south with its busy metropolitan life; Hanoi in the north with its rich history and cultural heritage sites like Halong Bay and Hoi An Ancient Town; Sapa, which showcases the green beauty of terraced rice fields; and Phu Quoc Island for picturesque beach getaways.

Culture and Tradition in Bali and Vietnam

Bali is predominantly Hindu with a unique blend of indigenous animism, which creates a rich spiritual experience drawn from its numerous ornate temples and daily offerings made by locals. Traditional dance performances showcase elaborate costumes and skilled body movements that tell stories from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana.

Vietnam features a mix of Chinese, French, and indigenous influences due to its long history of occupation by various nations. Confucianism has played an important role in shaping  Vietnamese culture , as reflected in the veneration of ancestors and traditional celebrations such as Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). Numerous pagodas and historical points of interest can be found throughout the country.

Best Time to Visit Bali and Vietnam

Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season lasts from April to September, while the wet season occurs from October to March. The  best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, when humidity levels are lower and rainfall is minimal.

Vietnam also experiences a tropical climate but offers three different climate zones due to its substantial north-to-south stretch. The best time for visiting Northern Vietnam is between November and April, Central Vietnam from January to August, and Southern Vietnam from November to May. Keep in mind that temperatures can vary significantly depending on regional climates.

Also Read: When to Plan Your Vietnam Vacation

Accommodation in Bali and Vietnam

Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to  luxurious five-star resorts . The island caters to various types of travellers and budgets. Some popular areas to stay in Bali include Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, and Canggu. 

In Vietnam, you can also find diverse accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Popular cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hoi An offer everything from hostels to  luxury hotels in Vietnam . Homestays are another unique option you can find in rural areas of Vietnam.

Things to Do in Bali and Vietnam

Bali has plenty of activities for every traveller's taste. Some of the top activities include surfing at Kuta Beach or Canggu Beach, practicing yoga in Ubud's beautiful surroundings, exploring ancient temples like Uluwatu Temple or Tanah Lot, or enjoying water sports in Nusa Dua.

Also Read:  Fantastic Activities To Do in Bali

Vietnam is an equally exciting destination, with adventure-packed activities like hiking in Sapa or Ha Giang, exploring the world-renowned Ha Long Bay by boat or kayak, taking part in cooking classes in Hoi An City, or discovering the rich history of the country through its various temples and museums.

Suggested Read:  Top Activities to Do in Vietnam

Places to Visit in Bali and Vietnam

Bali features a mix of majestic temples, serene beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant nightlife. It is also known for its stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant culture. Bali's Seminyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua beaches are great for surfing and sunbathing, while its temples and traditional dances offer a glimpse into Balinese culture. The country has innumerable attractions to keep you occupied and entertained throughout your vacation.

Suggested Read:  Best Places to Visit in Bali

Vietnam spans over 3,000 kilometers from north to south, offering an array of landscapes and places to explore. Vietnam, on the other hand, is famous for its rich history, diverse cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural scenery. Vietnam's Ha Long Bay, Hanoi's Old Quarter, and Hoi An's ancient town are just some of the must-see destinations. Vietnam also offers delicious cuisine, such as pho and banh mi, and a vibrant nightlife scene in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Both Bali and Vietnam offer something for everyone, making them both great choices for a memorable vacation.

Also Read:  Top Places to Visit in Vietnam

Food to Eat in Bali and Vietnam

When comparing the  best foods to try in Bali and Vietnam, both destinations offer unique and delicious culinary experiences. Bali is known for its diverse cuisine influenced by Indonesian, Indian, and Chinese flavours. Some must-try dishes in Bali include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Babi Guling (suckling pig), and Satay. On the other hand, Vietnam is famous for its fresh and  flavourful street food . Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich), and Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles) are popular dishes in Vietnam.

Budget for Bali and Vietnam

Travelers may find both Bali and Vietnam to be budget-friendly destinations. In general, day-to-day expenses such as meals, public transportation, and entrance fees are relatively low in both countries. However, Bali tends to be more expensive when it comes to accommodation and activities compared to Vietnam.

Shopping in Bali and Vietnam

If you're a shopaholic looking for an exotic destination, both Bali and Vietnam have a lot to offer. Bali is known for its trendy boutiques, art markets, and high-end designer shops. From handmade jewelry and traditional textiles to unique handicrafts, Bali's shopping scene is diverse and vibrant. However, it can be quite expensive compared to Vietnam. 

Also Read:  What to Buy in Bali

On the other hand, Vietnam has a more affordable shopping scene, with many street markets, night markets, and shopping malls. You can find everything from cheap souvenirs and designer knock-offs to high-quality silk clothing and accessories. Hanoi's Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh Market are the go-to places for shopping enthusiasts.

Deciding between Bali and Vietnam for a vacation can be a tough choice, as both places are exceptionally magical. Both Bali and Vietnam are budget-friendly so you can vacation in both of these countries without emptying your bank. Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious food, while Vietnam is famous for its stunning landscapes, bustling cities, and historic sites.

If you're looking for a relaxing vacation with plenty of beach time and indulgent spa treatments, Bali might be your better choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for more adventure and want to explore a variety of landscapes, from lush green forests to towering mountains and bustling cities, Vietnam might be a better option.

When it comes to planning your vacation, the decision is all about you and what you want to experience during your trip.

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Vietnam or Bali: Which Southeast Asian Destination is Better?

Bali – a paradise island filled with natural beauty as far as the eye can see. And Vietnam – a country bundled with history and character. One thing for sure is that deciding which Southeast Asian destination to visit is no easy task.

Bali has been luring millions of tourists yearly and for good reason. What is arguably Indonesia’s most popular destination boasts affordable lodgings, scenery to keep your jaw dropping constantly and some of the friendliest people you could meet. Oh, and not to mention it’s backpacker central, so there’s always a good party to be had if that’s your scene. Vietnam, however, is a country of variety. From the hustle and bustle of its capital, Hanoi, to the sheer silent beauty of Ha Long Bay, this extraordinary destination further north of Bali is also a must see.

But we get it, time and budget can’t always permit both. So, we’ve curated a handy little comparison of all the top vacation necessities to see which one comes out on top. Vietnam or Bali? Let’s go.

Table of Contents

Vietnam or Bali: Prices

Luckily, like most destinations in Southeast Asia, your money will go a long way in both Vietnam and Bali. But in Vietnam you can stay in some of the most luxurious five-star hotels for as little as $40. So, if there’s any place to test out how the other half live, Vietnam is the place to do this. You are looking at spending around $15 a day on food, of course depending on your eating habits. But the good news is that the street food here is almost even better than the highest quality restaurants.

So, how does this compare to Bali ? Well, the prices can get a little steeper here due to it being the epicenter of Indonesia tourism, however, we’re not talking steep by Western standards. You can find accommodation here for the super cheap price of $5 and that’s not just basic. How does waking up surrounded by lush greenery and views out to the iconic rice fields sound? And you can certainly get by on a daily budget of around $25 here. There are also plenty of excursions to enjoy for under $10, such as the highly recommended, Sacred Monkey Forest.

So, overall, both will allow for a pretty comfortable vacation that shouldn’t drain the bank account too much.

Winner: Vietnam

Vietnam or Bali: Things to do

Where to even begin with things to do in Vietnam – let’s just say it’s a country with much to offer any tourist. However, there are a few things that are a definite must on any Vietnam itinerary, starting with Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This maze of narrow streets, filled with food vendors, shops, cafes and bars, set to a background noise of motorbikes buzzing past is the epitome of Vietnam’s colorful character.

But for when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital, there are several options, ranging from the awe-inspiring architecture of the Golden Bridge , also known as The Hands of God (two huge hands supporting a mountain top walkway), to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An (a lantern covered ancient town). Or you could head further south to Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City or explore the country’s stunning islands by boat, we recommend the breathtaking Phu Quoc Island .

So how does Bali fare in comparison? Well, although Bali is much more concentrated in terms of size, you’d still be surprised at how much this island has to offer, besides soaking in the sun at some of the world’s most exotic beaches. A must see when you’re over in this part of the world is the spectacular, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tegalalang Rice Terrace . These cascading emerald green fields, equipped with zip lines and jungle swings for the adventurous are one of the most photographed areas in all of Bali.

Or for the animal lovers , a trip to Sacred Monkey Forest and Bali Bird Park are not to missed. Other destinations you might want to tick off on the Bali checklist are Ubud (the cultural hub), Kuta (beach resort and party central) and Tanah Lot (temple situated on a rock in the sea and only around half an hour from the island’s capital, Denpasar).

Vietnam or Bali: Food

When it comes to Vietnam or Bali in the cuisine department, prepare for a very close call, as both destinations will leave you with an explosion of flavors on your taste buds. However, with Bali being an Island, many of its best dishes are sourced from the stunning surrounding waters. Some of the best grilled fish can be found on this idyllic hotspot.

So, while Bali may do the seafood a little better, Vietnam’s plethora of mouthwatering delicacies certainly keeps it in the game. Whether you’re tucking into a banh mi (baguette with a variety of fillings and plenty of coriander) for lunch, sipping on some pho (soup dish consisting of noodles, meat, and herbs) for dinner or grabbing a banh xeo (crispy pancake and street food favorite) on the go, you are guaranteed to be satisfied.

But when in Bali, eating like a local is a must, and there is no better way than to try some nasi goreng (fried rice, usually cooked with meat or vegetables and topped with a fried egg) and babi guling (stuffed pig, coated in a variety of spices). These are two of Bali’s most traditional dishes.

While Bali cuisine is influenced by other Asian nations such as China and India, Vietnam’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the French, however, one thing for sure is that both put their own stamp on dishes.

Winner: Draw

Vietnam or Bali: Beaches

So, while Bali certainly springs to mind as more of the dreamy island beach life, Vietnam’s less touristy beaches are equally stunning. Venture just a little further south from the capital and you will be blessed with the pristine white sands of Danang’s seaside offerings. Or for a more developed, traditional seaside resort, Nha Trang has plenty of sun, sea, and sand, with an abundance of eateries and shops nearby. But if a little seclusion is what you’re after, look no further than Bai Xep Beach, this little slice of peaceful heaven in a remote fishing village is the ultimate chillout spot.

But, with stunning tropical beaches often the poster choice of Bali advertising, it’s hard not to give the title to Bali in this one. Most of the best beaches can be found in the south of the island, around the areas of Kuta, Jimbaran, and Seminyak. However, don’t expect your own private spot around here, as Bali beaches can get rather crowded. But one look at the lush mountainous surroundings, dazzling turquoise waters and impeccably soft sand and you’ll understand why. Kuta Beach is generally where the party’s at (quite literally) and one of the most famous beaches in all of Indonesia. By day it is a haven for surfing, lounging, and soaking in the vacation buzz. After dark, it becomes nightlife central, with an abundance of bars and clubs on offer.

Winner: Bali

Vietnam or Bali: Nature

Vietnam or Bali for nature is definitely a tough one. On the one hand there is Vietnam with its epic forests, spectacular caves, and fascinating mountain ranges. On the other hand you have Bali, a treasure trove of stunning waterfalls, incredible rice fields and sublime volcanic landscape.

For any nature lover in Vietnam, there is a plethora of activities to enjoy, from kayaking down the limestone cliff surrounded wetlands of Ninh Binh, to trekking in the emerald-green heaven of Sa Pa, or quad biking in the vibrant red sand dunes of Mui Ne.

While Bali has less landmass than Vietnam, the nature that this relatively small island has to offer is equally impressive. You can climb Bali’s highest mountain, Mount Agung, which is also an active volcano, in around 6 hours, although you may want to enlist the help of a guide for the best routes. Or perhaps you want to explore some of the finest lotus ponds and endemic plant species housed in the Bali Botanic Garden. Or maybe take in the astounding power of the 50-meter high, NungNung Waterfall.

Whichever way you choose to enjoy nature, both destinations have stunning scenery in bucket loads.

Vietnam or Bali: Nightlife

So, if the idea of having a few wild nights on vacation floats your boat, where will you find the best party scene, Vietnam or Bali? Well, unlike its fellow backpacker favorite, Bali, Vietnam is not as known for its wild nightlife. However, that’s not to say there isn’t a decent number of places to let your hair down around here. From Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s quintessential nightlife spot to the rooftop bars of Ho Chi Minh City and Danang, or even partying on a boat that’s drifting in the stunning Ha Long Bay, there’s sure to be something to take your fancy.

However, with Bali being the spring break destination of choice for Australians, that’s got to tip the balance in its favor, as we all know the Aussie reputation for liking a bit of a party. And what’s an island destination without a few epic beach bars thrown in? Enjoy cocktails by the sea in the popular Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak. This area, along with the other southern gems of Kuta and Canggu reign supreme when it comes to nightlife, with rows of bars and clubs to party the night away. After all, the party doesn’t even really get started until midnight in Bali.

Vietnam or Bali: History & Culture

And last but not least in our Vietnam or Bali battle, who will win in the history and culture department? Well, the fact that Vietnamese culture is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia certainly gives it an advantage.

With a history dating back thousands of years, this communist country has been occupied and divided by several nations. The French colonization in the 19th century can still be seen in much of the architecture today. Vietnam’s rich history can be found in the many museums dotted around the cities and there are several dedicated entirely to the Vietnam War (referred to as the American War in Vietnam), including the fascinating War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can see the equipment used during the war, as well as exhibits documenting different aspects of this brutal battle.

Bali, on the other hand is steeped in rich culture and religious tradition. It was once an important trading destination and much of the Hindu influence seen today is a result of early Indian traders.

There are many festivals held throughout the year, including one of their most important, Galungan, which marks a time when ancestral spirits return to earth. However, you don’t need to wait around for a festival for a bit of Balinese culture as it can be seen pretty much everywhere you go, from the art masterpieces to the traditional dance shows, as well as the many museums and sacred temples.

Vietnam or Bali: Conclusion

So, if you’re looking for a vacation in which to experience a bit of everything, including the hustle and bustle of city life, spectacular scenery, and cuisine to die for, Vietnam would probably be your best bet. However, if a more idyllic, concentrated setting, along with a great nightlife scene is what you’re craving, Bali may be more suited to what you’re looking for.

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Indonesia vs Vietnam: Your Guide to Choosing

Two amazing countries, both located in Southeast Asia, but oh, so different and yet equally beautiful and interesting! It is tough having to decide where to go so we decided to thoroughly compare the two.

While Indonesia is mostly a Muslim country infused with some hints of animism there are also islands and areas following Catholicism and Hinduism. It is a dynamic melting pot spread out over the 1700+ islands that Indonesia is home to. Vietnam mixes Buddhism with Confucianism and Taoism, known as Tam Giáo which translates to ‘triple religion’. Buddhism, influenced by the Chinese culture, is leading in the country.

Vietnam has over 20.000 pagodas and Indonesia has got tons of Hindu and Buddhist temples as well, dating back to ancient days, before Islam arrived at the country. When entering a pagoda or a temple, always remember to take off your shoes in order to be respectful. In Indonesia, it is also appropriate to wear a sarong covering your knees as well as something to cover your shoulders and breasts.

Where to begin describing the highlights of such massive and stunning countries? Well, I gotta start somewhere, but do realize that it is only the tip of the iceberg.

The land of rice paddies, tobacco plantations, coconut groves, active volcanoes, emerald rivers, dense tropical jungle and islands, so many islands!

Borobudur Java

This ancient temple complex, located in ‘special region of Yogyakarta’ on the island Java is probably the most famous tourist attraction in all of Indonesia. While most people go to see the sunrise at Borobudur, I enjoyed going a bit, avoiding the crowds and really allowing myself to get enchanted by the beauty of this impressive archaeological site.

Lake Toba Sumatra

This is the world’s largest crater lake and the island in the middle, Pulau Samosir, is home to the indigenous Batak Tribe. Nature is beautifully untouched, the culture and architecture of the Bataks are unique and intriguing and you can be sure to find peace of mind here at Lake Toba in the north of Sumatra.

See Also: Malaysia VS Indonesia

Orang Utans

These human-like apes are native to Indonesia and they are living in the dense tropical rainforests of Sumatra and Kalimantan. You can go on a jungle trekking to spot them in their natural habitat, alongside other monkeys and creatures of the forest. Head towards the national parks of these islands and be amazed!

Though Bali attracts millions of tourist every year, this little Hindu island doesn’t lose its magic and the advantage of being a popular tourist hub is that Bali is home to beach clubs, world-class restaurants, and boutique shops. Traveling away from the busy tourist towns brings you to beautiful beaches, holy temples, mountains and rice paddies.

Travel to: Bali

Komodo Island

During the boat trip to see the Komodo Dragon, the largest lizard in the world that only lives on Komodo Island near Flores, you will sleep on the boat deck beneath a million of stars, you will see hundreds of bats fly over during sunset and sunrise and you will get to go snorkeling with the magical manta rays. Definitely one of my traveling highlights!

Gili Islands

No traffic whatsoever! Only horse cards, bicycles, and beaches. The three Gili Islands, located just offshore at the island Lombok have something for everyone; nature and tranquility, beaches and parties and snorkeling and diving.

All the islands in Indonesia are volcanic and they feature majestic holy mountains that you can climb or admire from a distance as the sun rises. If you are up for a good hike, put Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen in Java, Mount Agung in Bali and Mount Rinjani in Lombok on your bucket list.

People mostly travel to Vietnam for the culture and the breathtaking sites of nature. Here are some of Vietnam’s highlights:

Probably one of the most beautiful sites of nature in the world, Halong Bay features tons of rocky limestone islands scattered around the emerald waters of northern Vietnam. A place where fairy tales were invented! Hop on a boat on a clear sunny day to make the most out of your trip and make sure to pinch yourself to see if you are not dreaming…

Mekong Delta Floating Market

Another thing Vietnam is famous for are the floating markets – an extraordinary way of getting your grocery shopping done. The Mekong River is home to numerous floating houses and markets, colorful, playful, scenting, and lively, surrounded by magnificent rice paddies.

Hoang Lien Son – Hmong Villages trekking

Hoang Lien is the highest mountain in Vietnam and it is home to indigenous tribes and villages that you can visit during nature treks in this area of northern Vietnam. A great way to see the raw untouched nature and get a glimpse of the local culture.

Travel to: Vietnam

Hoi An – UNESCO Town

Hoi An is an atmospheric ancient trading port town, named as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Colorful and lively, Hoi An has adapted to tourism with trendy tea houses, restaurants and lounge bars and yet the old charm still remains. Travel a bit out the center, and you will find beautiful cycling routes through the rural life and landscapes of Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh Cu Chi tunnels

Marks of the Vietnam War are visible in Ho Chi Minh where you can wander through the Cu Chi underground tunnels that lie beneath the city. A scary yet intriguing place, a former hiding place for Viet Cong soldiers and a war memorial park in these modern days.

When you are in Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss a night in the backpackers’ area. There are plenty of pubs and bars, as well as local restaurants that offer authentic Vietnamese food. If you want to do something different, you can sign up in cooking classes or volunteer activities in villages. Carry light clothes as the weather in Vietnam is quite hot. Even though Ho Chi Minh City is the commercial hub in Vietnam, it is still an interesting place to visit because it is a good mix of history and modernization. – Claire, First-Time Travels

Yok Don National Park

The largest national park in all of Vietnam. It is a bird paradise and a sanctuary for the endangered Indian elephant, the Indochinese tiger and leopard and the red wolf.

Southern Beaches

Beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Vietnam, but actually, it should! There are lots of them and they are no less beautiful than the beaches in Thailand or other popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

For me Sapa was my number one place we visited in Vietnam. It just seemed to have everything that makes this country so special. Amazing landscapes, unique culture and adventure around every corner. Up here it’s easy to think the town itself is a little spoilt by tourism, but head out trekking with one of the local H’Mong guides, through remote tribal villages, jaw dropping rice terraces and immerse yourself in the culture up here in one of the many homestays and you will see that there is many authentic experiences to be had up here. A little more off he beaten track and again for me the most intense experience in our 7 weeks on bikes through the country was riding the Ho Chi Minh trail along the border with Laos. This is not for the faint hearted and involved riding for 2 days through isolated mountain passes, tiny villages where the whole tribe would come to greet us and virtually no petrol station or help if needed. We had to carry our own fuel and food and ride through some challenging terrain before finally heading into the unforgettable scenery of Phong Nha Khe Bang. Tiring, mentally taxing but absolutely amazing. I also have to mention the canyoning in Da Lat, leaping 11m into a narrow waterfall was certainly a heart racing challenge in beautiful scenery. – Nic & Paul, The Roaming Renegades

Surely one of the main reasons to visit these amazing countries is to get a taste of the authentic local food. Both are delicious but very different. One thing the Indonesians and the Vietnamese share in common, and that is that they like it hot. Hot as in painfully spicy, that is…

The Indonesians like to eat with their hands and rice takes part of almost every meal. The rice is eaten with an array of richly flavored dishes such as fried tempeh, sambal eggs, chicken or fish curry or the famous Rendang beef stew. Chili is added on the side, in case it’s not spicy enough for you already.

Here’s a short list of the most delicious Indonesian dishes:

• Sambal : this chili-based sauce is a staple at all Indonesian tables
• Satay : meat skewers marinated in turmeric, barbecued and then bathed in a hearty dose of peanut sauce
• Bakso : savory meatball noodle soup appreciated also by Barack Obama!

In Vietnam, you will learn how to eat your food with chopsticks! I don’t know about you, but I just can’t get enough of those bowls of hot steaming Pho, the Vietnamese noodle soup that comes with either chicken, beef or prawns and a whole lot of local spices and herbs. Absolutely yummy! The fresh spring rolls Goi Cuon are also not to be missed and for breakfast, you can try the bahn mi banquets or the bahn xeo pancakes.

Must try food for us is Bahn Mi. It’s like a cheese, egg and salad baguette (you can get meat but we are veggie) that you can buy on the street most notably in Hanoi and Hoi An. It’s got influence from the French era here and is made in a very Vietnamese way and is of course dirt cheap! – Nic & Paul, The Roaming Renegades

Here’s a list of the most famous Vietnamese dishes:

• Pho : salty broth, fresh rice noodles, a sprinkling of herbs and chicken or beef
• Cha ca : sizzling chunks of fish seasoned with garlic, ginger, turmeric and dill on a hot pan tableside
• Banh xeo : crispy crepe bulging with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, plus the garnish of fresh herbs

For young people, I think the nightlife in Saigon is definitely a must. The drinks are cheap and the sitting culture is very odd but worth the experience. If you have more time, you should definitely look into staying with local host families where you will get the chance to eat, speak, live and breath a culture that is far away from yours. Most Vietnamese families don’t speak English so take this chance to be in a challenging environment. It will change your life! – Trisha, P.S. I’m On My Way

Getting Around

In Indonesia you can’t get around to making use of the planes and/or boats as the country is huge, comprising thousands of islands. Depending on which Island you are, you can use the local Ojeks or Rickshaws (bicycle and motorbike taxi’s) and Bemo’s to move around in the cities and towns. You can also drive a motorbike yourself if you can and dare. For long distance travels, take the bus, train or hire a private car with a driver.

Frequent trains and open tour buses can move you across the country affordably and comfortably. Lots of travelers choose to hire or even buy a motorbike to get around by themselves independently, selling the bike again at the end of their trip. Around the cities, you can move around easily by hopping on a Xe Om motorbike taxi or a Cyclo bicycle rickshaw.

See Also: What To Do in Vietnam and Where To Do It

Indonesia and Vietnam are comparable in price and both very affordable. You can enjoy a good meal for less than USD $2 and there are accommodations for every budget. Both countries have their own currency; the Rupiah in Indonesia and the Dong in Vietnam. Be prepared to pay more for your beers and cocktails in Indonesia because the country applies a crazy high import tax rate on alcohol.

Be prepared to be ripped off. Vietnam is one of those Southeast Asian countries who are known for heavily hustling so if you don’t have the stomach (and skills) for dealing with it, it might affect your travel mood. The trick is to be firm (sounds like a very complex word) but if they feel like you know what you are doing, they will get off your radar.  – Trisha, P.S. I’m On My Way

Phrases and Words

Here some useful words and phrases to use while in

So, which one is better?

Both countries are amazing. According to many travelers, Vietnam is more ‘off the beaten track’ than Indonesia, even though is safe to travel around. Indonesia is more developed and so more expensive, but it has definitely amazing beaches.

Stephanie P

Stephanie went out to see the world and never came back. From the lowlands of Europe, she traveled eastwards and she is still on the way to seeing the rest of the world. She loves being out in nature, meeting people of different cultures, making music and writing blogs about her travel experiences.

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A Travel Comparison for Vacations, Honeymoons, and Tours Indonesia vs. Vietnam

Should you visit indonesia or vietnam, which country is cheaper, vietnam or indonesia.

Should I visit Indonesia or Vietnam? This is a popular question for many travelers. By figuring out which country is more expensive, you'll understand where you'll get more bang for your buck. A week in Vietnam can cost you about $421 (per person), while a week in Indonesia may cost you around $414. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. 10 days , two weeks , or even one month of travel to Vietnam or Indonesia can really add to your travel budget.

Accommodation is often cheaper in Vietnam compared to Indonesia ($27 vs. $31). Budget travelers usually stay in less expensive hostels and guest houses, while nicer hotels often appeal to families and upscale travelers.

Compare hotel prices here: Indonesia Hotel Prices and Vietnam Hotel Prices .

Or, compare hostel and guesthouse prices between Vietnam and Indonesia to find the cheapest accommodation here: Vietnam hostels and Indonesia hostels .

When comparing food in Indonesia vs. Vietnam they are not just different in cuisine, but also in price. Meal and restaurant costs in Indonesia ($16) are often cheaper than Vietnam ($14).

• Indonesia Prices Vietnam Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Indonesia $ 59 Vietnam $ 60
• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Indonesia $ 31 Vietnam $ 27
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Indonesia $ 61 Vietnam $ 53
• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Indonesia $ 8.81 Vietnam $ 12
• Food Meals for one day Indonesia $ 16 Vietnam $ 14
• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Indonesia $ 9.60 Vietnam $ 13
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Indonesia $ 4.83 Vietnam $ 7.78
• Water Bottled water for one day Indonesia $ 1.17 Vietnam $ 1.33

How much are flights to Indonesia and Vietnam?

The price of a plane ticket may help you decide which country you should visit.

Find a Hostel in Indonesia or Vietnam

Hostels, guest houses, and locally owned B&B's are often the cheapest form of accommodation.

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I am planning a 2 weeks trip for august/september for my boyfriend and I and I would really like to go to asia as we have never been.

I know both places are really different but I was wondering if someone who was been in both places could help me... What I am looking for is somewhere with a mix of culture and beach, good food, easy to get around and still quite cheap.

Where would you recommend us to go?

Thanks a lot for the help

I have been Bali many times but feel that some of it has been quite spoilt by tourism. Being an Australian I would have to say that soo many Australians visit and it almost feels like I am on the Gold Coast at some places.Especially during school holidays (Check the dates to make sure that it is not school holidays in Australia before you go) However in saying that there are some places in Bali that you can escape it all.

Pros for Bali-

I last went in August and the weather was quite mild , not hot but comfortable 25c most days. It was cloudy on most days too.

Have you thought about Thailand . I have been to Phuket a few times and think the beaches are much prettier . Sands are white and beach is clear. The food is cheap and it is closer to the UK. About an hour or so from Bangkok .

Hope that helps.

Food - both countries have great food - Bali I think caters well for Westerners - bigger portions, lots more meat. Vietnam is good for fresh vegetables and subtle flavours.

Beaches - I found Bali beaches to be nicer than Vietnam's.

Bali is full of obnoxious loud mouth Aussie tourists - makes it embarrassing to be an Aussie there. Bali culture I think is pretty much swamped by the tourist industry.

Bali has some wonderful villas for family holidays but they cost a lot.

In Vietnam you can get some fairly good Hotels for $15 to $50 a night, but of course you can go upward from there.

Over-all Vietnam is far superior for a holiday - much more diverse with lots of places still relatively untouched by the tourist industry.

Gosh, I'm so glad that my times in Bali were in the 1970s when only a tiny section of the island had been slightly touched by tourism and the rest not at all.

It would break your heart. Losmonds and Warungs are now resorts and shopping centres.

Bali was like a second home for us, but my vote goes to Vietnam, hands down.

CB, we also did Bali way back in the mid 80's when it was fairly rustic and hadn't really taken off. But even back then the locals were targeting the Aussie dollars and trying to build something that would bring even more dollars in.

We returned early last year and couldn't believe the changes. Gone were the small villages and anything rustic. Replaced by a concrete desert of miles and miles of beach resorts, hotels, eateries; all on a polluted and dirty beach. Even Ubud which we loved back last century, had become big and predominantly ugly.

Bali's chase for the tourist dollar has stripped it of all charm. The only place we found that was remotely relaxing and like the Bali of old was the Gili Islands, just off Lombok. We'll never visit Bali again.

But Bali is famous destination with nice, high quality service.

Have a good choice!

We have been to Bali many times and love it, I agree that it has lost its soul, but for now we still enjoy it, we avoid Kuta.

I am not expecting Vietnam to be too much like Bali at all, in fact I will be dissapointed if it is and I am not looking for the same experience in Vietnam that we have in Bali.

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Where to go after Bali: Curated List of the 10 Best Nearby Places

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Wondering where to go after Bali? I’ve got you covered!

Indonesia is a land of over 17,000 islands and yet the only place most people in the world put on their bucketlist is Bali. There is absolutely no doubt that Bali is mesmerizing and that there are plenty of things to do in Bali. However, Bali’s location in Indonesia and in Asia too is such that visiting nearby islands, cities, and countries should hardly be a challenge.

So which are the places that you should visit after Bali? Or in other words, if you have extra time on your hand to extend your vacation, where should you go after Bali? The best places to go to after your trip to Bali are nearby islands like Gili Air, Lombok, Kawah Ijen, or other Indonesian places like Ancol, Flores Island or Borneo. Alternatively, you could even combine your Bali trip with a holiday in Kyoto, Japan, Hoi An, Vietnam or Penang, Malaysia.

Remember that I am not just randomly recommending places from Asia here. But to provide you with a diverse range of options from Indonesia and other Asian countries, this list has been put together by curated inputs from some of the best travel bloggers in the world.

So what are to go after Bali? Read all about the best islands near Bali, the best Indonesian cities to visit after Bali, and the most diverse overseas places to visit close to Bali in the detailed guide below.

Where to go after Bali?

Contributed by: Leah, Officer Travels

How to reach Gili Air from Bali: By boat from Padang Bai, Central Bali or by boat from Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan.

How many days should you spend in Gili Air: 2-3 days

If you have an extended holiday planned in Bali, you’ll probably want to take a trip to some of the surrounding Islands too. The Gili Islands are a popular side trip from Bali because of their diverse nature.

‘The Gili Three’ is made up of three vastly different islands that offer different scenes depending on what you’re looking for.

– Gili Trawangan (or Gili T) is the party island, popular with the younger crowd, and has a much livelier atmosphere.

– Gili Meno is where the couples go, it’s quiet, romantic and a great option if you’re looking for peace & tranquility

– Gili Air has a hippie vibe

Then there’s Gili Air. Quiet, but sociable enough that solo travelers won’t feel isolated. Its reputation for yoga retreats is growing year on year.

With no cars here, locals and tourists get about by foot, bike, or horse. It has a great mix of quiet cafes, beautiful restaurants, and beach-side bars but unlike Gili T, clubbing isn’t the top priority here.

The top activities for Gili Air include walking and exploring the island, diving lessons, and snorkeling tours. There are plenty of operators to choose from but I recommend looking for one that takes you to all three Islands and includes a lunch stop at Gili Meno.

With its peace and tranquility, it won’t come as a surprise to hear that you can’t fly to the Gili Three from Bali, so be prepared for somewhat of an adventure by boat. Depending on your Bali itinerary, there are several starting points for a fast boat from Bali to Gili Air including Padang Bai if you’re in Ubud or Central Bali. Or, if you’re planning to visit Nusa Penida as well, you can also get a smaller boat from Nusa Lembongan which takes a couple of hours. Allow for at least a couple of days at Gili Air to really experience the beach life and unwind.

Komodo National Park

Contributed by: Jackie, Life of Doing

How to reach Komodo National Park from Bali: Fly to Labuan Bajo (1h 20 mins) and then take a tour via boat.

How many days should you spend at Komodo National Park: 1-2 days

Visiting Komodo National Park after Bali is doable and easy to do. Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s UNESCO recognized sites and is well-known for the Komodo dragons living on Komodo and Rinca Island. 

This place is located along an archipelago close to Labuan Bajo, a small town on Flores Island. It comprises 3 main islands – Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, and 26 smaller islands.  

To reach Komodo National Park, you’ll need to fly from Bali to Labuan Bajo, and then take a tour (via boat) from Labuan Bajo. A flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo is only 1 hour and 20 mins.  

There are one-day and multi-day tours available. You don’t need to pre-book a tour as you can find agencies in the main downtown area or your guesthouse may offer tours. 

A one-day tour consists of a visit to Komodo or Rinca Islands to see the Komodo dragons up close and in their natural habitats, a hike up Padar Island for gorgeous views of the blue lakes, and/or a visit to a pink beach or snorkeling off an island. 

While one day is sufficient, consider extending the tour a few extra days. You can stay overnight on a boat and visit both Komodo and Rinca Islands. The Komodo dragons look slightly different between the two islands. Plus, you’ll get more time to snorkel and scuba dive.

Labuan Bajo has plenty of guesthouses and hostels available. They’re reasonable at $20 USD per night. It’s best to stay close to the downtown area. If you stay closer to the airport, you’ll need to hire a taxi to take you to the main downtown area as it’s about an 8-minute drive (2.5 kilometers/1.5 miles) away.

Contributed by: Kenny, KNYCX Journeying

How to reach Lombok: By ferry (2 hours) or by flight (25 mins)

How many days should you spend at Lombok: 5-7 days

There are so many  amazing things to see and do in Bali , making the island one of the most popular and well-known holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. After enjoying the wonderful things and sights that Bali has to offer, it is recommended to continue on your journey in Lombok and have a little peace and quiet in nature.  

Lombok Island is situated right next to Bali and it’s conveniently connected by ferry shuttling between the two islands in about 2 hours. It is also possible to reach Lombok by plane. Compared with its neighbor, Lombok is blessed by fewer visiting crowds and commercial developments, keeping a more laid-back vibe that draws those who crave some quiet moments in the tropics.

However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot get active – the island features a majestic active volcano that hikers can go for a hike; the island is also surrounded by pristine beaches and resorts that scuba divers can take a dive.  

It generally takes about five to seven days to fully experience Lombok. Rent a bike or hire a car and explore the island and delicious local cuisines. Some highlights of the island include Senggigi beach, Gili Island, Pink Beach, and Tanjung Aan Beach.  

Contributed by: Bec, Wyld Family Travel

How to reach Ancol from Bali: Fly to Jakarta (approximately 2 hours) or ferry from Bali to Java and train from Java to Ancol (24+ hours)

How many days should you spend at Ancol: 1-2 days

If you are looking for a place to continue the magic spell Bali has put you under look no further than a stay in Ancol, Jakarta.

Ancol Jakarta is one of the very best places to visit after Bali for singles, couples and  families travelling Asia.  This amazing gated community area has it all.

So why is Ancol so great?

Brilliant hotels with a waterfront view all the way to an old aeroplane on the shore you can find something wonderful to do here. If you are travelling with kids to Ancol you will find it easy to navigate your way around. There are wide streets safe for walking and small playgrounds where the kids can run free.

A cable car will give you the best views of the beach and if you are travelling with a child at heart you can pick one of the many theme parks or one of the other attractions like Sealife to fill your day. 

Hotels along the beachfront have amazing views and being the home of Indonesian jetski champs you can see them zipping along the water at breakneck speeds if they are practising.

Many of the hotels like the Mercure Ancol feature rooms with this stunning view as well as onsite restaurants and extra special pools with waterslides for anyone who wants to have a go.

But if getting out and seeing some of Jakarta while you are there is on your plans, it is easy to get to the main attractions from Ancol. You can hire a driver from one of the hotels or you can order yourself an Uber that will get you to the city centre for your Jakarta adventure.

Getting to Ancol is also a journey in Indonesia itself. If you want to stay in Indonesia a little longer you can catch a ferry to Java from Bali and take the train all the way through the beautiful Indonesian countryside to Ancol Jakarta. You can stop and get off or you can try to go straight through but be warned it can be a hairy 24 hours+ on trains!

Most people take the easier option of flying to Jakarta from Bali to maximise their time in the magnificent Ancol.

Flores Island

Contributed by: Carryn, Torn Tackies

How to reach Flores Island from Bali: Flight to Labuan Bajo (Approx 2 hours)

How many days should you spend at Flores: Minimum 5 days

Remote volcano hiking trails, hidden hot springs, untouched islands and more, makes Flores Island one of the most incredible places to visit in Indonesia.

It’s a quick, 2-hour flight south of Bali and can be easily paired with a trip to the Island of the Gods. The best way to  explore Flores Island  is by doing an overland trip, where you arrive in Labuan Bajo on the west and depart from Ende on the east.

The most popular attraction is Kelimutu National Park, home to the tri coloured Kelimutu Lakes. But this natural phenomenon is just one of many spectacular sights on the island. The village of Bajawa offers a rich cultural experience which can be paired with a challenging hike to the peak of a dormant volcano, Mount Inerie. This, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the Bajawa Hot Springs, makes for an awesome day of exploring.

Head northeast and you’ll find the small fishing village of Riung. This is a great base for visiting the 17 Islands National Park which is a mecca for ocean lovers.

There is so much to do and see in Flores and you will need at least 10 days to tick everything off your bucket list. This will allow you to travel slow and use public transport between the villages. If time is not on your side, I’d recommend no less than 5 days on the island.

Contributed by: Martina, Places of Juma

How to reach Kawah Ijen from Bali: By boat from Gilimanuk ferry port (1 hr 15 mins)

How many days should you spend at Kawah Ijen: 1 day

A really cool place to visit after your Bali trip is definitely Kawah Ijen. This mighty volcano is located on the island of Java, and is about 60 kilometers from the Gilimanuk ferry in Bali and can be visited either on your own or with a guided tour from Bali. One day is enough to visit the volcano and do a hike to the crater lake.

There is not much in the surrounding area, most visitors continue their journey afterward, returning to Bali or exploring Java.

Ijen is a volcano with a total diameter of 75 km. The absolute highlight is the tour to the turquoise crater lake Kawah Ijen, which is considered to be the largest acid barrel on earth. Even today, sulfur is mined by hand under the most difficult conditions.

A few years ago, a visit was considered a real insider tip, today you can book a trip at the travel agencies of Bali. But still, a visit is a spectacular experience and if you are fit, you should definitely visit this place. 

The hiking trail leads 3 km up to the crater. During your walk, you will meet the sulfur workers and if you are lucky, you can also have a conversation with them. The climb takes about 90 minutes until you reach the top of the crater. There, a fascinating view of the turquoise crater lake awaits you.

Down at the lake, the sulfur is broken off by the miners with iron rods on the ground and stowed in the bamboo baskets. These weigh up to 70 kg and would first have to be hauled back up to the crater and then back down to the valley. It is unbelievable what conditions the workers are exposed to every day!

Extra tip: A night hike is also interesting because then you can also see the famous Blue Flames. In addition, you then also have the opportunity to experience the sunrise.

Tanjung Punting, Borneo

Contributed by: Nicole, Go Far Grow Close

How to reach Tanjung Punting from Bali: There are no direct flights. You will need to take two flights to reach Pangkalan Bun (the airport closest to Tanjung Punting)

How many days should you spend at Tanjung Puting National Park: 4-5 days

A trip to Indonesia would not be complete without exploring Tanjung Punting National Park .

Tanjung Punting National Park is located on Borneo, the third largest island in the world and the largest in Asia. Borneo is divided into three countries – Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. Tanjung Punting National Park is found in Indonesia.

Tanjung Punting National Park is the biggest and most diverse coastal tropical heath and peat swamp forest in the world. It contains 3,040 km² (or 1,174 square miles) of low lying swamp lands and rivers which connect to the Java Sea.

It has remarkable wildlife including hundreds of bird species, crocodiles, snakes and most significantly, 9 different primates, including the Proboscis monkey and the endangered orangutan. One of the most extraordinary things that you can do in the National Park is to trek orangutans in the wild. 

Reaching the National Park is not easy. It isn’t far from Bali, but there aren’t any direct flights to Pangkalan Bun.

Instead, you will have to take two flights for a total of 2 ½ hours.

From the airport, Tanjung Punting is a 20 minutes drive to the Port of Kumai, then a two hour boat ride on the Java Sea followed by the Sekonyer River, a very narrow waterway just feet from the shores and the jungle.

You have two options for accommodation: First, stay on a Klotok, a traditional Indonesian river boat, the whole time while you explore the river and jungles for orangutans. Second, stay in a traditional hotel and then, take the Klotok during the day on your ecotour. One fantastic hotel is Rimba Orangutan Ecolodge. 

Stay between 4-5 days. There is so much to see, discover, uncover, and savor in Tanjung Punting. Every day you wake up and you have no idea which animals you will stumble across or what other natural wonders you will see.

Contributed by: Vanessa, The Travelling Colognian

How to reach Hoi An from Bali: By flight to Da Nang and a bus from Da Nang to Hoi An

How many days should you spend at Hoi An : 3-4 days

Hoi An in Central Vietnam is one of the best places to visit after Bali. The lovely laid-back coastal town is about 2.900 kilometers away from Bali.

You can get there by taking a plane to Da Nang and continuing from Da Nang to Hoi An by bus. There are also train connections to Da Nang from different cities in Vietnam.

However, the most beautiful way to get to Hoi An is by overland bus from Huế over the Hai Van Pass which offers stunning views in all directions.

I suggest spending three or four days in Hoi An since there is a lot to do and see. The best time to visit is April but February, March, and June are also good since these are the months with the least rain.

Hoi An awaits you with its picturesque old town where you can easily spend hours walking around and taking photos of the beautiful buildings.

The typical Vietnamese lanterns that are enlightened at night hang everywhere and Hoi An is the best place in Vietnam to buy them. The wooden Japanese Chùa Cầu bridge over the Thu Bon river is another must-see sight. It is completely covered, also enlightened at night, and connects the Chinese and the Japanese quarter of Hoi An.

Other worthwhile sights are the Fujian Assembly Hall, the Quan Cong Temple, the Sa Huỳnh Culture Museum, the night market, and the central market as well as the nearby An Bang Beach and the Cham Islands. 

Hoi An is also the best place in Vietnam to have clothes tailored.

If you have enough time I highly recommend taking a day trip to the Mỹ Sơn Hindu Temple. It is located in a rainforest about 40 kilometers southwest of Hoi An. The 70 temples that were built by the Kings of Champa are ruined but the atmosphere of Mỹ Sơn is still magical.

Contributed by: Marco, Penang Insider

How to reach Penang from Bali: By direct flight to Penang (3.5 hours) (flight availability post-pandemic will depend on country-specific regulations)

How many days should you spend at Penang: 3+ days

The UNESCO World Heritage island of Penang in northwestern Malaysia is an ideal place to visit after Bali.

Before the pandemic, direct flights would take about 3 and a half hours. Otherwise, a stopover in Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta still made reaching Bali from Penang a breeze.

In sharp contrast to Bali, which is famous for its beaches and nightlife, Penang is more of a cultural island. You should spend a minimum of three days here, during which you’ll be barely able to scratch the surface. With at least a week and some desire to get out in nature, you’ll have a much better experience.

Start in UNESCO-protected George Town, which packs colonial history with the multi-ethnic living heritage of the Malay, Straits Chinese and Tamil Indians who inhabit this multicultural island.

Penang is a place for food and was listed by Lonely Planet as the best destination for foodies in 2014. Besides that, the former British colonial hill station of  Penang Hill , which became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in September 2021, is the island’s green lung and boasts a series of hiking trails and ancient colonial bungalows perched around its Upper Station. The Funicular Railway, one of the steepest in the world, was upholstered in 2016 and grants quick access to this 833-metre-high peak.    

Penang’s beaches are not nearly as pristine as Bali’s for the island has been more heavily developed, but you’ll still find some quiet and unspoilt coastlines in the southern and southwestern sides of the island. Pantai Esen, not far away from Penang Airport, is a beautiful beach backed by rainforest and three connecting hills where one can hike up to the remnants of War World II bomb shelters.

Contributed by: Kerry, VeggTravel

How to reach Kyoto from Bali: By flight to Tokyo or Osaka (flight availability post-pandemic will depend on country-specific regulations)

How many days should you spend at Kyoto: 2-3 days in Kyoto or 10 days in Japan

After you’ve explored the lush, green rice fields and beaches of Bali you’re sure to want to see another city that is rich in culture and history, Japan.

Japan is on many people’s bucket list for good reason; the bright lights, colourful anime and manga and many weird and wonderful things to do truly entice you in. However, outside of the bustling Tokyo, one city stands out above all others and that is the ancient capital of Kyoto.

The easiest way to get here is to fly into Osaka Itami (approximately 12 hours) and then a short bus or train to Kyoto. 2-3 days is more than enough in Kyoto, but you should spend at least 10 days in Japan overall.

Kyoto is a popular and well visited city, but it also has a well-preserved balance between modern developments and traditional architecture.

Many of the  things to do in Kyoto  are centred around places of special significance for the Japanese people. One of the most notable areas is the Fushimi Inari Shrine which is located atop a mountain trail decorated with 1000 red Torii gates and Shinto Shrines. Another must see is the impressive bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

When you’re not discovering the varied and intricate temple complexes you will be exploring the infamous Gion district. Beautiful traditional houses, ornate Japanese decorations and rice paper screens await.

Book a Japanese tea ceremony and be entertained by an authentic Geisha or Mieko to get the ultimate cultural experience.

Most people will stay near the river and the central Kyoto station as this is close to the riverside restaurants and bars and easy to get to other locations.

Final Thoughts

So which of the above places will you put on your bucketlist? There are so many amazing places to choose from no matter your travel style. If you are an animal lover, head to Borneo. If you want a slice of culture and heritage, Hoi An or Kyoto would be great choices. For beach lovers, you could simply add an island like Gili Air or Lombok to your itinerary. For breathtaking landscape, Flores Island or Ancol would be terrific choices. Or if you just have one extra day, Kawah Ijen would be a unique addition to your Bali itinerary.

Pin this post for later!

More Resources

How many days are enough in Bali

The perfect 10-day Bali itinerary

Bali travel tale: A mistake that taught us a huge travel lesson

TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES

Here is a list of our favorite travel resources- the ones that I absolutely swear by when planning almost every trip. Go through this list to plan a hassle-free trip and save a lot of money!

Flight Booking: Check the availability of tickets, the best time to fly, and the cheapest fares on Skyscanner . You may also find a cheap flight via CheapOair

Accommodation: I absolutely love booking through Agoda . In most countries and particularly in Asia, I often find the best fares on Agoda. But I also love the no prepayment and no cancellation fee policy of Booking.com . For cheap accommodations and hostels, nothing beats Hostelworld .

Car Rentals: You may find and rent an appropriate car via RentalCars . It’s hassle-free and reliable.

Guided Tours: I absolutely love GetYourGuide for local sightseeing tours, walking tours, history tours, and food tours. The booking process is seamless, and the tours are super affordable. But in Asian countries, I prefer Viator or Klook for their affordably priced tours.

Lounge Access : Get Priority Pass – my personal favorite card that gives me unlimited access to premium airport lounges all over the world

Hey, if you found this post helpful, share it with more people or buy me a coffee !

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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Phuket vs Bali: how to choose between the two divine islands

Apr 6, 2023 • 8 min read

Head to Aling Aling Waterfall in Northern Bali, or explore Phang Nga bay by boat © iStock

Anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia confronts an embarrassment of riches.

This magical part of the world has enough beaches, sunset spots, temples and fiery food to fill several lifetimes of travel. Yet since we only have one, tough choices lie in store. Enter a pair of seasoned writers to make the case for their pick of two of the region’s most beloved hubs, Phuket and Bali.

Favor fabulous Phuket

Isabella Noble is a Barcelona-based travel journalist and the author of Lonely Planet’s Pocket Phuket guide. She has been spending time on this beautiful, often-misunderstood Thai island for almost a decade. 

For anyone who loves Phuket  – as I do – it’s a magical island that instantly defies its stereotypes without making any fuss.

Thailand bursts with dreamy, laid-back, palm-filled islands washed by gentle turquoise waves, yes – but Phuket combines all that tropical-paradise allure with the lively buzz, creative vibe and thrilling food scene of a dynamic urban hub. 

Let’s start with those fabulous flour-soft, salt-white beaches. My favorites are in the north of the island, including sparkling Hat Surin , five mile (8km)-long Ao Bang Thao and wilder Hat Layan . Phuket’s three northwesternmost strands are a treat too: Hat Nai Yang , Hat Mai Khao and Hat Nai Thon all sit within the protected Sirinat National Park and have a blissfully relaxed, nature-first feel. On the island’s southern tip, mellow Rawai is another beachy beauty I seek out on every visit; it’s known for its rustic seafood restaurants, buzzing kitesurfing scene and powdery strands like Hat Nai Han . Blazing sunsets draw crowds to dramatic Laem Phromthep here, and there’s almost a mystical feel as everyone simultaneously gazes out as the sun drops into the jade-colored Andaman Sea.

Phuket’s vibrant food scene

Phuket also has one of Thailand’s most irresistible food scenes, born from the mingling of Southeast Asian and Chinese cultures over the centuries (known here as Baba culture). The arty island capital Phuket Town is the culinary epicenter. A tin-mining hub in the 19th and 20th centuries, today now filled with candy-colored Sino-Portuguese buildings, restored hôrng tăa·ou (shophouses) and hidden shrines that burst into life for the September/October Vegetarian Festival. I like popping into the Lock Tien food court, where Phuketian classics like mèe hokkien (Hokkien noodles) and just-made spring rolls are served at plastic tables, or grabbing flaky roti topped with a fried egg at the always-popular Thai-Muslim breakfast spots on Thalang Rd. Long-running Mee Ton Poe is locally loved for its noodle dishes; Kopitiam does Phuket-style Thai classics; and Raya prepares its popular coconut-crab curry in a tile-covered Sino-Portuguese house.

On the fine-dining side, try the contemporary-Sardinian delights dreamt up by superstar chef Alessandro Frau at Acqua ; the elevated Phuketian flavors of Patong’s gorgeous, garden-laced Ta Khai ; Cherngtalay’s elegant Suay for chef Noi Tammasak’s arty twist on Thai cuisine; or Michelin-starred PRU in northern Phuket. There’s plenty to enjoy on the local coffee scene, too, with hipster-style hangouts such as Phuket Town’s The Shelter Coffee and Bookhemian easily rivaling Chiang Mai ’s famously cool cafe culture. 

I’ve happily spent time in Phuket with my brother, my partner and many friends over the years, but also as a solo female traveler. Whether you fancy a beachfront yoga class, heading out on a diving trip, visiting Buddhist temples (such as 150-year-old Wat Chalong ) or perhaps tackling muay thai , Phuket’s activity calendar has it, and all kinds of travelers can expect a warm welcome here. 

A signature Phuket highlight is escaping into gorgeous Ao Pha-Nga Marine National Park , where kayaking or paddle-boarding is the most rewarding, low-impact way to explore this bewitching bay dotted with limestone karsts. Day trips to Ko Phi-Phi – where Maya Bay recently reopened with strict new conservation rules – are perfectly doable, too. And did you know there’s also great hiking in Phuket? Rewarding routes include the sweaty jungle-traversing climb up to the 150ft(45m)-tall Big Buddha in the Nakkerd Hills near Kata, as well as paths through the wild rainforests of northern Phuket’s Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife & Forest Reserve (home to the pioneering Gibbon Rehabilitation Project ).

Beachfront bliss

And nowhere does seductive beach hotels (or heavenly spas) like Phuket. You could go all out with a deluxe stay at one of Thailand’s top hideaways, such as Amanpuri , Trisara , The Surin Phuket or Rosewood Phuket . There are also fun, sociable hostels and design-forward boutique hotels (particularly in Phuket Town; Casa Blanca is a joy), along with mellow beachside guesthouses in places like west-coast Kamala. 

Yet when I’m longing for this delicious island, I think of an early-morning stroll through Phuket Town, a plastic plate of steaming noodles arriving at a toes-in-the-sand beach shack, a soul-stirring swim in turquoise waves backed by rippling casuarinas. This is what Phuket is all about. No wonder it’s drawn people from all over the world for centuries. 

It’d better be Bali

If Mark Eveleigh were ever told he could only travel in one country for the rest of his life, he’d choose Indonesia . This widely traveled journalist and author has written for numerous publications; his latest travel book is Kopi Dulu: 15,000km through Indonesia .

Overcrowded and overdeveloped? Or the world’s most beautiful island?

The fabled Island of the Gods, Bali  certainly sees more than its fair share of tourists. The town of Ubud , a famous yoga haven and art capital, has its dedicated devotees – as does Uluwatu, with its sublime temple and adrenaline-pumping surf.  Kuta was once party central, even if now the night owls are now heading to the beach clubs and cool cafes of  Seminyak and booming  Canggu .

Alongside five-star resorts such as Raffles and  the Four Seasons that sprawl through tropical gardens and onto talcum-powder beaches, visitors can stay a host of exciting new designer places, like  Lost Lindenberg and  Nirjhara . And even as demand soars, you can still rent a simple, comfortable room with a private balcony overlooking a tropical garden for under $10 per night, breakfast included.

So, yes, tourism might be booming here. But on an island that’s over 10 times the size of Phuket, it’s still astoundingly easy to find an unspoiled corner. 

Bali’s beguiling beaches

I’m a big fan of Thailand and have worked on many assignments (even books) in that wonderful country. But the colorful cast of gods and demons, ghosts and witches that play such a large part in traditional Balinese life fascinated me so much that they became central characters in my latest novel. Indeed, it’s the Balinese people that make the island uniquely appealing – not to mention one of the most culturally intriguing spots in the world.

Sure, Bali and Phuket both boast palm-shaded white-sand beaches that make visitors drool. But only Bali has a law that stipulates no buildings shall be tall enough to rise over those trees. Which means that even the most congested tourist centers here have been spared high-rise, Thai-style cityscapes.

In addition to the dreamy white beaches around Nusa Dua and the Bukit Peninsula , there are also romantic volcanic beaches where you can stroll for miles across a surface that shimmers like a black mirror without seeing another foreigner. If you enjoy dramatic wave-smashed coastlines (and some of the world’s best surfing) then you should stick to the southern coast; if you prefer tranquil reefs where dolphins, turtles and marine life gather then head to the sheltered northern coast.

An island of nature’s delights

When you’ve had enough of beaches, Bali’s volcanic highlands offer a smorgasbord of activities that little Phuket could barely dream of. The sunrise climb to Batur might be – justifiably – the most popular tour on the island, along with Ubud’s Monkey Forest . Inland, you can also cycle (25 miles downhill!), go white-water rafting or explore jungles and peaks on foot, by horse or even helicopter. In the unspoiled “wild west,” you can walk with pink buffalo or visit what might be the planet’s most photogenic traditional fishing fleet.

The arid hillsides of  Northern Bali are planted with cashew, dragon fruit and (surprisingly) even vineyards. To the south, the slopes are dominated by the giant stairways of terraced paddies, in places running right down the ocean.

I fell in love with Bali some two decades ago, and my ideal writing retreat is on the remote western side of the island. Every time I get back I realize anew that West Bali might be the most achingly beautiful place on the planet. This third of the island remains almost entirely overlooked by visitors; even the islanders themselves are often astounded to hear that West Bali National Park has deserted beaches where wild deer trot through the shallows, and jungle-clad hills are home to hornbills, flying foxes and gibbon-like langur monkeys.

There are lots of places in the world with plenty to occupy you for a two-week vacation. Twenty years after my first visit to Bali, I’m still convinced that there’s enough there to keep me busy for a lifetime.

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Is Bali Worth Visiting? 16 Honest Reasons to Decide Is Bali Worth It

Are you wondering is Bali worth visiting? In short, yes! 

From stunning beaches and lush landscapes to vibrant arts, adventure activities, and spiritual traditions, Bali promises to be a stunning destination that’s truly worth it!

In this article, I give you 16 reasons why this is a great place to visit, so you can make your own mind up and decide is Bali worth it.

So, read on and discover all the great reasons of why you should travel to Bali.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Is Bali Worth Visiting?

So, why visit Bali , Indonesia? I might be a little bit biased, as I’m obsessed with south-east Asian countries. I spend two months backpacking around Indonesia. 

Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands, in fact, Bali is made up of four islands! I spent my time in Indonesia hopping between the multitude of islands, and so many times, I returned to Bali – for me, it felt like the central hub with the best connections.

But what is Bali like? And is Bali overrated?

This guide goes into all the great reasons you should visit Bali, and what sort of things to expect.

Why Travel to Bali

• Stunning Beaches
• Cultural Immersion
• Stunning Temples
• Adventure Sports
• Wildlife Spotting
• Natural Beauty
• Waterfall Chasing
• Affordable Luxury
• Delicious Food
• Big Holistic Scene
• Beautiful Art
• Markets and Boutique Shops
• Friendly People
• Warm All Year Round
• Great Surf Scene
• Perfect Base for Island Hopping

Visiting Bali – Know Before You Go

Before you truly start your journey, here are some useful tips and information to help plan your Bali trip .

How to Get to Bali

Bali offers two transportation options. These are by flying or by boat. Depending where you’re coming from will dictate which option to use. You’ll be glad to hear whichever option you choose, it’s relatively straightforward and convenient.

• By Air: Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar Airport (DPS) is located in the southeast of Bali in a town called Denpasar. This is the main airport serving Bali. Flying is the most convenient and popular way to reach the island. From the airport, you can utilise airport shuttle services or private transfer to reach your destination.
• By Boat: Bali can be accessed by ferry from other islands in Indonesia, such as Lombok, or Java Island (if you’re travelling down from the north). Regular ferry services operate, allowing you to enjoy a scenic journey while travelling between Bali and neighbouring islands.

Getting Around Bali

Getting around Bali is easy with a few transportation options available:

• Public Bus: Bali has a reliable public bus system that connects major towns and attractions at an affordable cost.
• Taxi or Private Driver : Taxis are widely available, particularly in tourist areas, and ride-hailing apps operate on the island. Hiring a private driver offers flexibility and personalised itineraries.
• Moped Rental: Renting a moped is a popular choice for independent exploration. However, you’ll need a valid driving licence and insurance. Make sure you read up on traffic rules beforehand.

Is Bali Safe to Visit?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Bali at the moment. 

However, as with any destination, pickpockets and occasional scams are the main problems – buy tickets from official vendors and barter the price for a taxi before you get in. 

Related Article: The Complete 10 Days In Bali Itinerary

Why Visit Bali, Indonesia 

There’s been a lot of bad press recently that over-tourism has spoilt Bali. Over a million international visitors arrived last year alone, so many wonder is Bali STILL worth visiting.

Although areas in the south and around Ubud are the main draws for tourists, and it can get busy (as well as being slightly more expensive) there’s still a lot of the island that’s relatively untouched. So yes, it’s absolutely still worth visiting. 

If you’re looking for reasons on why visit Bali , here they are!

1. Stunning Beaches

Why go to Bali? With its vibrant energy and picture-perfect shores. That’s why! Bali is the ultimate destination for beach lovers and sun worshippers. 

Feel the adrenaline rush as you catch the perfect wave at legendary surf spots like Kuta or Uluwatu. And if like me, you’re an avid scuba diver or love snorkelling, then immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life as you snorkel or dive into the hidden gems of Tulamben or Amed. 

As the sun sets, indulge in the electrifying atmosphere of beach clubs. You’ll find laid-back bars with beanbags dotted along the barch to more vibrant, upbeat hangouts, where DJs play as the sun goes down, often you’ll find performers, like fire poi, being spun about creating this sensory delight.

Read Also: The Ultimate Bali Bucket List

2. Cultural Immersion

Visiting Bali is full of cultural immersion. Step into a world where ancient traditions come alive and immerse yourself in the fascinating cultural tapestry of Bali! 

Everywhere you turn, vibrant Hindu shrines, fragrant flowers, and delicate offerings enchant your senses. 

Be sure to catch one of the traditional dance performances that tell stories of ancient legends. You can also unleash your creativity in Ubud’s vibrant art scene, where you’ll find a plethora of traditional crafts – visit their studios and watch the crafts(wo)men at work.

It’s nearly impossible to not engage with the friendly locals. They will eagerly share their customs and rituals , inviting you to join temple ceremonies and learn the art of making intricate offerings. If they ask you to join them, don’t turn down this great opportunity. 

Feel the energy of the Galungan and Kuningan festival in August. Watch colourful processions fill the streets, with traditional costumes, and offerings made to their deities. 

3. Stunning Temples

It’s difficult not to be mesmerised by the exquisite beauty of Bali’s temples – they are in a word, simply stunning. Nestled amidst stunning landscapes, these architectural wonders showcase the island’s rich spiritual heritage. 

From the iconic silhouette of Tanah Lot perched on a rocky shore to the ethereal serenity of Ulun Danu Beratan floating on a misty lake, each temple offers a unique experience. 

The grandeur of Besakih , sat on the slopes of Mount Agung, with its majestic pagodas and intricate carvings, will leave you in awe. This is Bali’s largest and most holy temple which I 100% recommend visiting.  

Discover the spiritual sanctuary of Tirta Empul, where locals immerse themselves in sacred springs. You can even join the locals and be cleansed in these waters!

Related Article: 50 Of The Most Famous Landmarks in Asia

4. Adventure Sports

Calling all adventure enthusiasts ! Are you wondering is Bali a good place to visit? 

Bali is an absolute playground for thrill-seekers, offering a plethora of exhilarating adventure sports that will get your adrenaline pumping. 

Hop on an ATV and go on an off-road expedition, zooming through rugged terrains, muddy trails, and lush jungles. For an awe-inspiring experience, hike up the majestic Mount Batur to catch a beautiful sunrise from its summit, rewarding your efforts with panoramic views of the island. 

Take to the waves and challenge yourself with world-class surfing breaks, or explore vibrant coral reefs as you scuba dive or snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. 

For those seeking a bird’s-eye view, soar high above Bali’s landscapes with thrilling paragliding or zip-lining adventures. 

With its diverse topography and adventurous spirit, Bali offers endless opportunities for adrenaline junkies. 

Read Also: What To Expect On The Mount Batur Sunrise Hike

5. Wildlife Spotting

Get ready to encounter Bali’s incredible wildlife as you go on unforgettable wildlife-spotting adventures . 

Dive into the depths of the ocean on scuba diving excursions , where you’ll have the chance to get up close to graceful manta rays gliding through the water alongside a vibrant array of tropical fish. 

Bali’s surrounding waters are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, offering an underwater paradise for both snorkelers and divers.

Venture into the heart of Ubud and immerse yourself in the enchanting Sacred Monkey Forest , home to a playful troop of monkeys. Experience these mischievous creatures up close as they swing from tree to tree and interact with each other in their natural habitat. 

You can even buy bunches of bananas to feed them, often they’ll sit on your shoulder. Do watch out for your personal belongings, I had my water bottle stolen by a monkey, and another person next to me had their sunglasses taken off their head!

In addition to the underwater and primate encounters, Bali is also known for its diverse birdlife. I’m not a huge fan of captive wildlife, however, the Bali Bird Park is leading the way in the conservation and breeding of native species that are close to extinction.

Related Article: Swimming with Manta Rays in Bali

6. Natural Beauty

Bali’s beauty is truly mindblowing – it’s one of the most visually stunning countries I’ve visited. The island is adorned with beautiful landscapes that will leave you in awe. 

Step into the lush green expanses of Bali’s iconic rice fields , where terraced slopes create the most photogenic panorama. Hire a bike or walk through the emerald fields of Tegalalang or Jatiluwih, immersing yourself in the tranquillity of these picturesque settings.

For a truly awe-inspiring experience, venture to Mount Batur, an active volcano that rewards hikers with spectacular views. It’s best to go on one of the organised early morning treks up Mt Batur , where you can witness a stunning sunrise from the summit, casting a golden glow over the surrounding landscapes and the shimmering Lake Batur below.

Bali’s natural beauty extends to its cascading waterfalls, such as the majestic Tegenungan or the hidden gems of Sekumpul and Gitgit. Stand under the refreshing spray as water tumbles down rock formations.

7. Waterfall Chasing

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you chase Bali’s beautiful waterfalls! One of the most exhilarating ways to do it is to chase waterfalls on a quad bike through the jungle !

One of the most popular is Tegenungan Waterfall.  Watch and listen to the thunderous roar and the refreshing mist that envelops you. Take your adventure further to the hidden gem of Sekumpul, it’s said to be the biggest and best waterfall in Bali. Here you’ll find a symphony of cascade beckoning you to plunge into its pristine pools.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Gear up for an unforgettable quest to Gitgit Waterfall, and don’t miss the hidden oasis of Nungnung, where you can escape the crowds and bask in the natural cascades that surround you.

Get your cameras ready to capture the jaw-dropping beauty as you chase one magnificent waterfall after another around Bali.

8. Affordable Luxury

Indulge in a world of affordable luxury in the tropical paradise of Bali.

Choose from a wide range of stylish boutique hotels and villas that offer luxurious accommodations at affordable prices. Immerse yourself in lavish amenities such as private pools, spa treatments , and personalised service, all while enjoying the island’s serene ambience.

Pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa experiences that blend traditional Balinese techniques with modern wellness practices, providing the perfect balance of relaxation and rejuvenation. Sample delectable cuisine at affordable yet exquisite restaurants, where you can savour both local delicacies and international fare.

Bali also offers affordable opportunities for upscale shopping, where you can find unique artisanal crafts, stylish clothing, and intricate jewellery without breaking the bank.

9. Delicious Food

Bali’s culinary scene embraces the abundance of fresh produce and offers a plethora of vegetarian and vegan options that will tantalise your taste buds! Bali was one of the easiest destinations I’ve visited where I could find plenty of vegetarian options and not feel like I was missing out on local food.

Delight in the refreshing flavours of Gado-Gado, a vibrant salad of blanched vegetables, tofu, and tempeh, topped with a rich peanut sauce. I lost count of how many times I ate this – it was by far my favourite dish during my time in Indonesia!

Another one is the aromatic spice dish called Lawar. This traditional Balinese dish is made with mixed vegetables, grated coconut, and spices, bursting with flavours.

Then treat yourself to a plate of Pepes Tahu, Tofu is wrapped in banana leaves along with fragrant herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection, creating a delightful harmony of flavours. 

If that’s not enough, then explore the variety of vegetable curries, such as Sayur Lodeh or Kare, where an assortment of vegetables are simmered in rich and aromatic coconut-based sauces.

10. Big Holistic Scene

Discover Bali’s thriving holistic scene. Unwind and find your inner Zen at one of Bali’s world-renowned yoga retreats. 

From beachfront studios to tranquil jungle settings, these retreats offer a range of classes and workshops for practitioners of all levels. Dive into daily yoga sessions, meditation practices, and holistic healing treatments that will nourish your body, mind, and soul.

Alternatively, pamper yourself with blissful spa experiences that combine ancient traditions with modern techniques. Indulge in Balinese massages , known for their long, flowing strokes and gentle stretches, or treat yourself to traditional healing therapies like Jamu herbal baths or Boreh body scrubs.

11. Beautiful Art

If you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, then you’ll find plenty of choices here. Bali has a thriving art scene, with the artistic enclave of Ubud at its heart. 

Stroll through the streets of Ubud and immerse yourself in its rich history of creativity. Explore the numerous art galleries showcasing traditional and contemporary Balinese artworks, where you’ll encounter intricate wood carvings, beautiful paintings, and stunning sculptures.

Visit the Ubud Art Market, a bustling hub of craftsmanship and creativity, where you can find an array of handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Balinese artworks. This is one of the best places to shop for gifts – I really had to restrain myself here – there were so many beautiful things I wanted to buy. 

Beyond Ubud, Bali’s artistic spirit extends to other regions of the island. Discover the picturesque village of Batuan, known for its traditional Balinese paintings that depict mythical stories and folklore. If you’re looking for metal work, and silver and gold jewellery, you’ll find these in the village of Celuk. For textiles including intricate batik fabrics, then visit the village of Tohpati.

12. Markets and Boutique Shops

Don’t forget to go on a shopping adventure in Bali, where you’ll find vibrant markets and charming boutique shops.

Explore the bustling markets of Ubud, such as the Ubud Art Market and the Pasar Seni Sukawati, where you’ll find a treasure trove of handicrafts, artwork, textiles, and traditional souvenirs. 

Venture to Seminyak, known for its upscale boutiques and designer shops. Discover trendy fashion labels, stylish homeware, and exquisite jewellery crafted by local artisans and international designers. 

For a more laid-back and bohemian atmosphere, head to the markets of Canggu or the coastal town of Sanur, where you can find a mix of clothing, accessories, and local handicrafts. 

13. Friendly People

From the moment you set foot in Bali, you’ll be greeted with open arms and a genuine sense of warmth. The locals are known for their genuine interest in connecting with visitors, making you feel like a part of their extended family. 

Engage in friendly conversations, learn about their rich culture and traditions , and be amazed by their deep-rooted spirituality. They are incredibly proud of their heritage.

The Balinese people take pride in sharing their island’s beauty and cultural heritage. They are often eager to offer recommendations, assist with directions, and share stories about their way of life. Their genuine kindness and warmth create an atmosphere that fosters meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences.

14. Warm All Year Round

Looking for a destination for a perpetual summer escape? Bali’s got you covered! With its location near the equator, Bali enjoys consistent temperatures and a delightful tropical breeze that creates a blissful atmosphere.

Year-round temperatures average 31°C (88°F). The humidity can be higher during the wet season, which is between October and April, Their dry season has the lowest humidity and runs from May to September.

No matter when you visit, you can expect pleasant and inviting weather that allows you to explore the island’s beautiful landscapes and take part in outdoor activities. 

Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, exploring lush rice terraces , or venturing into ancient temples, the warm climate of Bali makes it a year-round destination.

15. Great Surf Scene

Bali’s reputation as a surfer’s paradise is well-deserved, with its world-class breaks and consistent swells attracting wave riders from across the globe.

Is Canggu worth visiting? Yes! especially for surf enthusiasts. You’ll find loads of surf schools in Canggu and waves suitable for beginners right up to more advanced surfers.  

Feel the rush as you paddle out into the line-up, ready to conquer the rolling waves that break along Canggu’s dark sandy beaches. Whether you’re a beginner catching your first green wave or an experienced surfer seeking the perfect barrel, Canggu offers a playground of possibilities.

But Bali’s surf adventures don’t stop there. For more experienced surfers, venture to the iconic Uluwatu , where you’ll encounter heart-pounding waves that peel perfectly over a reef, creating an exhilarating ride you won’t soon forget. Challenge yourself at the hollow left-hand break of Padang Padang or ride the consistent swells of Bingin Beach, where every ride promises an adrenaline-infused thrill.

16. Perfect Base for Island Hopping

Are you looking for exciting island-hopping adventures? There are numerous enchanting places near Bali to visit that offer their own unique charms and experiences.

Nusa Penida, a short boat ride away , beckons with its dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Discover hidden beaches, such as Kelingking Beach and Crystal Bay, where pristine white sands meet towering cliffs. 

The idyllic Gili Islands, situated off the coast of Lombok, are another must-visit destination. These three tiny islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—offer a laid-back island vibe, stunning beaches, and incredible snorkelling opportunities. 

For a tranquil escape, head to the serene island of Nusa Lembongan , known for its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular marine biodiversity. Explore hidden coves, go surfing on Jungut Batu Beach, or simply unwind in the island’s serene ambience.

Should I Go to Bali? FAQs

So, we’ve gone into lots of reasons why you should visit Bali. If you’re about to plan a vacation in Bali, this section is for you. It contains lots of useful answers to common questions, as well as travel tips for visiting Bali. 

When Is the Best Time to Visit Bali?

The best time for a Bali holiday is during the months of May to October. This period falls within the dry season when the weather is sunny and rainfall is minimal. The pleasant temperatures and lower humidity make it ideal for outdoor activities Bali has to offer.

What Is It Like in Bali in Winter?

Bali’s winter (October, January and February) is the off-season with occasional showers and increased rainfall. It can be quieter and more affordable, but the weather is unpredictable. The lush greenery adds to the charm of the island during this time.

What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Bali?

Pros of living in Bali include a vibrant ex-pat community and a welcoming atmosphere. However, the cons include the island becoming overcrowded and the cost of living rising steadily, impacting the overall quality of life.

Is Indonesia Worth Visiting?

Yes, Indonesia is definitely worth visiting. With its diverse islands, rich culture, friendly people, abundant wildlife, incredible diving opportunities, and delicious cuisine, it offers a fascinating and unforgettable experience for travellers seeking adventure and exploration.

Is Ubud Worth Visiting?

Yes, Ubud is the perfect hub to base yourself for visiting rice fields, the Sacred Monkey Jungle, temples and Mt Batur. Ubud is also the island’s capital of art – you’ll find the best handicrafts and art markets here making it a great place to shop for authentic souvenirs. 

Are the Gili Islands Better Than Bali?

The Gili Islands, Bali, and nearby places offer distinct experiences. The Gili Islands provide a tranquil island escape with pristine beaches, while Bali offers a wider range of attractions, cultural experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere. 

Every destination has its own appeal, catering to different preferences and interests.

What Religion Is Bali?

The majority of Balinese people practise a unique form of Hinduism known as Balinese Hinduism. This religion incorporates elements of Buddhism and animistic beliefs, creating a distinct and rich spiritual tradition that is deeply embedded in the culture and daily life of the Balinese community.

Are There Things Not to Do in Bali, Indonesia?

When visiting Bali, it is important to avoid being disrespectful towards the local culture. This includes not wearing revealing clothing in religious sites, not touching people’s heads (considered sacred), and not engaging in inappropriate behaviour during religious ceremonies. 

Is Bali a Safe Place to Visit?

Yes, Bali is generally a safe place for travellers. However, it’s advisable to take common safety precautions, such as staying vigilant in crowded areas, securing your belongings, and following local regulations.

So, Is Bali Worth It?

So is Bali worth it? Yes, Bali is definitely worth visiting!

With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, adventure sports, wildlife, and warm hospitality, Bali offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers. 

Although I’ve been to the island several times during my trip to Indonesia, I’d go back in an instant. I absolutely love it there. It’s one of the most beautiful and diverse places I’ve visited.

If you were wondering at the start, is Bali worth visiting – it’s a 100% yes. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey in the enchanting paradise that is Bali.

Looking for more reasons to visit Indonesia, read more here…

• The Ultimate Bali Bucket List
• What To Expect Hiking Mount Batur in Bali
• Scuba Diving With Manta Rays From Bali 
• Complete Guide To 10 Days In Bali

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Have a question about planning your Bali itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Bali is Overtouristed, Here are 10 Destinations to Visit Instead

09/24/2019 by Kristin Addis 5 Comments

Today, it seems that Bali is the closest thing a traveler can get to “paradise,” or at least the travel industry has made it seem so. Yet many are frustrated when they arrive to traffic jams, beaches littered with trash, and waits for photos at popular Instagram spots.

The reality is, Bali gets a staggering number of visitors. According to the Bali Hotels Association , Bali saw more than 6 million international tourists in 2018. Among the largest numbers of visitors per country was the United States, with nearly 240,000 visitors that year, but pales in comparison to China, which had a whopping 1.4 million. The island saw a 6.6% increase in tourism numbers from 2017 to 2018.

The BHA also provides statistics from over the last two decades. Bali saw roughly 2 million international tourists in 2008; this number grew to 3.3 million in 2013, then to 6.1 million in 2018. So let’s crunch some numbers: Bali tourism tripled over ten years. Over the five-year period from 2008 to 2013, the number of international tourists increased by 65%, while over the five-year period from 2013 to 2018, that count increased by 85%. Basically, the numbers show no signs of Bali tourism slowing down.

According to CNN , overtourism not only leads to annoying crowds, but strains local resources and wreaks havoc on the environment. The crazy numbers of tourists have left a serious footprint in Bali, largely contributing to a “garbage emergency” on the island’s beaches.

So what does this mean? It means that the tourism and travel industry as a whole needs to re-evaluate the way we do what we do . We need to prioritize the health of awe-inspiring places like Bali over our own vacation selfies. And that’s not to say that we should stop traveling — of course not! What it does mean, though, is that it’s time we consider taking the road less traveled so as to have gentler effects on both the destinations we visit and the people who actually live there.

For example, Indonesia is made up of  more than 17,000 islands , nearly 6,000 of which are inhabited, yet a third of all Indonesia’s tourism in 2017 only went to Bali. There are so many other islands in Indonesia to explore, not to mention the countless destinations around the globe that offer sandy beaches and blue waters, too.

With that said, here are ten destinations which serve as fantastic alternatives to Bali. Visiting these places can help to create a healthier and more stable tourism industry on the island of Bali, as well as bring tourism-fueled prosperity to other places. Choosing an alternative destination can even provide you with a more unique and authentic travel experience than you would find at an overtouristed location.

If you’re set on visiting Indonesia, but are open to choosing a different island, try:

Table of Contents

Lombok, Indonesia

Lombok is the Indonesian island right next to Bali, home to beautiful sandy beaches, waterfalls, rice fields, and even a volcano. It also gets less rain than Bali does in the rainy season .

Lombok’s southern beaches are some of the best in Indonesia for waves, and even though Kuta is Lombok’s most-visited town, you will be amazed at the privacy and serenity that come from the sheer lack of crowds. Kuta is a great place to start, thanks to its proximity to Lombok International Airport, followed by chasing waterfalls up north , trekking Rinjani volcano and visiting the Gilis – three small islands off the coast with their own distinct atmospheres .

Thousand Islands, Java, Indonesia

Another location only a short distance from Bali is the Thousand Islands, a cluster of 110 islands in the Bay of Jakarta. The islands all have white sandy beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Elevon of the islands are available to tourists, which means that the population of both locals and tourists is spread out, making for a very tranquil getaway. It’s the perfect destination if you like to island hop.

Tanjung Lesung, Java, Indonesia

Tanjung Lesung is located in the province of Banten on the western coast of Java, about a three-hour drive from Jakarta. It offers one of the best beaches near the Indonesian capital thanks to its swimmable waters, good surfing, and 9-mile stretch of white sand. It also boasts beautiful coral reefs, which make for great snorkeling and diving.

Tanjung Lesung still has much of that cultural authenticity many tourists desire, and it even serves as the perfect jumping-off point to explore the volcanic island of Krakatau. If you’re thinking of checking on Bali for surfing , consider Java, or Sumbawa below, next.

Sumbawa, Indonesia

Lombok’s next door neighbor, Sumbawa, is perhaps one of the least-visited places in Indonesia. Not only is Sumbawa an amazing spot for surfing, the island is home to the still-active volcano Mount Tambora, as well as waterfalls, pristine beaches and beautiful blue waters. Visitors to Sumbawa will find the culture to be authentic to Indonesia as a whole, yet unique to the island itself.

The best way to get there is to take a ferry from Lombok’s east coast.

Morotai, North Maluku, Indonesia

Morotai is one of eastern Indonesia’s Maluku Islands. Interestingly, the island played a role in World War II, acting as an Allied base in the fight in the South Pacific. Today, Morotai is home to countless diving spots where scuba divers can see the marine diversity of the reefs and even swim with harmless sharks. Morotai is certainly more rugged and forested than many other Indonesian islands, but the resulting natural beauty is awe-inspiring. And in true island fashion, the beaches on Morotai are gorgeous.

If you’re a scuba diver, check out Raja Ampat while you’re in the area. It’ll blow your mind!

If you’re open to something different from Indonesia, check out these destinations in other countries:

Koh Yao Noi & Koh Yao Yai, Thailand

These two islands in southern Thailand are mostly locals-only islands, with a very small number of tourists. Koh Yao Noi boasts beaches and waterfalls that can be explored on bicycle or motorbike, and experienced rock climbers will love the rugged terrain.

Neighboring Koh Yao Yai is equally as beautiful and untouched. It has warm, clear waters, a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, and a few eco-resorts. Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai are hidden gems compared to more touristy destinations in Thailand like Phuket .

Koh Chang, Thailand

Not only do Koh Chang ‘s affordability, friendly locals, and abundance of attractions make it a fantastic island getaway in general, they make it the perfect alternative to Bali.

The island’s warm waters are just right for snorkeling and scuba diving, and with countless beautiful beaches, you’re sure to feel like you’ve arrived in paradise. There is no shortage of activities at hand, either, as Koh Chang is one of Thailand’s largest islands, second only to Phuket. Plus, many of Koh Chang’s foreign visitors are young, free-spirited solo travelers, which makes the island an awesome destination for your own solo trip.

Cook Islands

This chain of 15 islands in the South Pacific screams, “relaxation,” but still has an adventurous side. From rugged mountains and limestone caves to coral reefs and blue lagoons, the small and remote Cook Islands has more to do than meets the eye!

The country is known worldwide for fantastic snorkeling & scuba diving in its crystal clear waters. Mountainous Rarotonga is the largest island, home to capital city Avarua, while Aitutaki boasts sandy islets, and Atiu offers the chance to explore island caves. Whether you’re looking to kick back or venture out, the Cook Islands is sure to make a great alternative to Bali.

Tioman Island, Malaysia

Tioman Island sits off the east coast of mainland Malaysia in the South China Sea. The island is a nature reserve and marine park due to its incredible biodiversity, as Tioman is equal parts tropical rainforest, sandy beach, and coral reef.

The island is home to some amazing snorkeling and diving spots, and even a few shipwrecks! From catching a wave on your surfboard to trekking through the jungle and chasing waterfalls, Tioman offers countless adventures. Different kinds of resorts on the island also ensure that you’ll be able to create a trip that suits your travel style.

From the colonial-style capital city of Apia to the caves, blowholes, and lava fields on the big island of Savai’i, the two main islands & seven smaller islands of Samoa each have their own unique personalities. Samoa is surely one of the most culturally authentic experiences on this list, as it is less of a tourist destination than many other locations in the South Pacific. The islands, of course, boast white sand beaches, blue lagoons, and diving and surfing along the coast, but with the added allure of rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls, and even flea markets. Samoa is sure to be a trip which is equal parts relaxing and engaging.

While these are just a few of the great alternatives out there to Bali, there are so many more within Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, and Indonesia itself . Often, it only takes a bit of off the beaten path exploration to find the perfect island paradise. I encourage you to see what else is out there even if your heart is set on Bali. You might be pleasantly surprised.

For those who have looked for alternatives, what belongs on this list? What are some of your favorite Bali alternatives?

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Om Singh says

10/04/2019 at 11:04 pm

Over tourism is the big problem in the current time. Most of the world top tourist places are experiencing this problem. Well, your suggestions are great! Thank you for the info!

Kristin says

10/05/2019 at 12:31 pm

Agreed. I have been looking for less popular places lately, both for their sake and for my own sanity!

M Koumis says

01/26/2020 at 10:12 am

very helpful article thank you! am about to revisit Lombok and agree with your words. Just to make you smile, i thought Id share a conversation i had today with a chinese traveler here in Kuala Lumpur (Bangsar village) where Im stopping over in transit. She said “It’s so quiet here, Im finding it hard to cope! I come from a big city in China and Ive never stayed anywhere so quiet in my life!” Actually Bangsar is a really nice place if you’re ever stopping over en route from europe to asia.

01/26/2020 at 10:17 am

Such a beautiful island!

Mark Andrew Mangini says

02/04/2024 at 12:12 am

hello , what is the name of the resort in the picture in the article Morotai, North Maluku, Indonesia

Worldwide Walkers

Is Bali Worth Visiting? How to be a Better Traveler in 2023

After our second trip to Bali, we’ve been contemplating whether or not to write this blog post: Is Bali still worth visiting?

We don’t like to be the judges of where people should or shouldn’t travel because we’re firm believers that all places have something great to offer!

And Bali does have a lot of great things to offer.

However, something’s been gnawing at us since our last trip. It’s like we’ve seen two sides of Bali, and we feel like sharing what we’ve experienced.

So in this blog post, we’ll go in depth with why Bali is still worth visiting. But we’ll also write about some bad things that we’ve experienced as travelers. There are some things about Bali that we just think are wrong, and we feel like us travelers bear the responsibility because we are partly at fault.

Therefore, we’ve decided to write this blog post about why Bali is still worth visiting, and how we travelers can visit Bali in a better way in 2023! That way this blog post hopefully benefits you as a traveler but also the Balinese people in the long run.

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLOSURE: Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here .

5 great reasons why Bali is worth visiting

Why is Bali worth visiting in the first place? We want to start this blog post on a positive note and share our top 5 reasons why you should travel to Bali.

You can also read our blog post: Interesting facts about Bali , if you want to learn more about the island before your visit. Anyways, let’s get to it. Here are 5 reasons why you should visit Bali in 2023.

1. Balinese culture is interesting

First of all, the Balinese culture is amazing!

There is always a Hindu ceremony somewhere on the island – it’s almost a daily occurrence. Everyone gets dressed up in their beautiful traditional clothing and bring their colorful offerings to the temple. Did you know that there are actually more than 20.000 temples in Bali?!

Apart from the religious side of the Balinese culture, it’s also interesting to learn about how the Balinese people live their lives on the island.

There is a big difference to whether you live in the city or in the countryside. We would recommend you to visit both cities and local villages if you really want to experience the overall culture of Bali.

2. Balinese people are very kind and giving

While the Balinese people in the cities are often more business-oriented, we learned that the Balinese people in the countryside were very hospitable! (Not to say that you can’t be nice and hospitable if you live in a city).

We’ve been sharing stories and traditional palm wine with our new Balinese friends in the small local villages. Even though there is a language barrier, it’s somehow super easy to communicate with the local people in Bali. The local villagers are just so kind and giving towards us travelers.

We were even invited to a karaoke night with our guesthouse owner one night – It was so much fun!

3. The nature on Bali is incredible

Most people see beautiful rice terraces and exotic beaches when they think of Bali. And while we find the rice terraces very beautiful too, we do feel that the volcanoes are what makes Bali’s nature incredible!

During our last trip, we stayed in this small apartment above a local coffeehouse, which had an amazing view over Mount Agung.

It was so magical to wake up to this picture-perfect sight of the volcano. If you really want to explore the nature in Bali, then we can 100% recommend staying in Sidemen village. Here you’ll find outdoor activities such as hiking in the rice fields, nearby waterfalls, and a lot of peace and tranquility.

• Related blog post: Thing to do in Sidemen

The nature and the scenery in Bali is definitely one of the best reasons why we think that Bali is worth visiting!

4. Balinese food is different

If we have to be completely honest, then we don’t think that the Balinese food can compete with other Southeast Asian cuisines such as Thailand or Vietnam.

That being said, the food is still a legit reason to why you should visit Bali. There are some dishes which are very common to the Balinese Cuisine such as Babi Guling, Nasi Campur, and Gado Gado. You should try some of these as you most likely won’t find them anywhere else (Only Gado Gado is vegetarian).

You can find these dishes at the local warungs. Eating side by side with the locals is a great cultural experience in itself. So, it’s definitely worth it to check out the food if you are visiting Bali.

5. Bali is an affordable destination

Lastly, another reason why Bali is still worth visiting is that your money will go far (unless you eat at fancy restaurants every night and have your own private villa with a pool).

Bali is still a pretty affordable destination to visit if you’re on a budget. You can find good accommodation and eat very cheap at the local warungs. So your biggest expense as a traveler will probably be transportation.

3 not-so-nice things about Bali

Now that we’ve praised Bali with all the good things that it has to offer, it’s time to talk about some of the bad stuff.

While we don’t really like to talk negatively about destinations on this blog, we just cannot keep silent anymore. There are some things that we find completely wrong with Bali – and the biggest one is created by us travelers. That’s why we feel like writing this. So we travelers can become better.

So here are the reasons to why we even ask this question in the first place: Is Bali still worth visiting?

1. Influencer hell on Instagram

One of the things that we find fundamentally wrong, yet we’re somehow part of it, is the way Bali is portrayed by influencers.

While we don’t call ourselves influencers, we’re well aware that we do influence people with this travel blog and our youtube channel Worldwide Walkers .

But we feel like there’s a fine line that we “influencers” have to walk in order to not hurt the destinations we travel to. This line has been crossed when it comes to Bali.

There are more than 70 Million #Bali posts on Instagram. Scrolling down, the only thing we see are bikini babes on drone footages from amazing villas with enormous pools, or someone sitting on a swing overlooking the rice fields of Ubud, and not to mention the many Açai smoothie bowls and other fancy meals that has nothing to do with Balinese food culture.

There is even a temple called Pura Lempuyang in which people take “fake” pictures.

We tried to go there and check it out, but our scooter broke down on the way, so we never got to see what the fuss is about. But tourists apparently go here to stand in line for a picture, then someone puts a mirror under the camera so it looks like there is a reflecting lake. It looks super beautiful – but it’s all fake. Check out the #gatesofheaven on Instagram.

We can’t help but think, is this really what we want to show the world about Bali?

Did you know that you can actually do Instagram tours on Bali now? So you pay a guide to take you around all the best photography spots on the island, and then you get to take the same picture as all the other influencers. I mean, what happened to being creative?

And what happened to curiosity? Isn’t traveling about actually exploring new places? Not making sure other people see that you are indeed busy exploring.

It seems like a lot of people just travel to Bali to promote themselves and their perfect lives on Instagram. But nobody is perfect, and you’re definitely not unique when you take the same pictures as everyone else. Don’t get me wrong. I’m no saint either! We’ve also done this – going around with the camera and trying to take the perfect pictures while ignoring the incredible surroundings.

But we’re becoming better. We’ve learned how to take a step back and experience the place we’re in first. Then we can always take some shots later.

So dear fellow travelers, stop missing out and being so obsessed with getting the perfect pictures. Instead of going on an Instagram tour, then why don’t you go hiking in the rice fields or visit a local Balinese village? I’m sure that’ll create some beautiful memories of a lifetime.

2. The big cities in Bali are overrun by disrespectful tourists

It’s fine that Bali is a really big tourist destination. Tourism supports the Balinese economy and puts food on the table for a lot of Balinese families. So it’s not like we’re against all the tourists in Bali. However, we do have a problem with some of them.

We’re sick and tired of the big tourist spots in Bali.

Back in 2016, when I was on my first solo trip, I was harassed by both drunk Australians and the locals in Kuta. It was honestly very uncomfortable being a 20-year old woman, traveling solo, and being harassed from every angle.

I’m always trying to be respectful around other cultures. I always have a scarf around me or in my bag so I can cover up if I feel like I show too much skin for what’s appropriate. I never walk around in a bikini unless I’m on the beach because I find this very disrespectful.

Yet, I felt so vulnerable walking around in Kuta. I felt naked by the way some people looked at me and harassed me on the street.

I didn’t feel unsafe at any point – just very uncomfortable as a woman traveling solo. It really made me wonder whether or not Bali was worth visiting at all. Funnily enough, I was never harassed this way when I visited some years later with Glenn. It was (sadly) only when I was a solo female traveler.

But as soon as I got out of the city and into the countryside, I met the nicest local people who were genuinely curious about me and wanted to be friends. In the countryside, there also aren’t any “party”-tourists. There are only tourists who actually want to experience the beautiful and authentic side of Bali.

So, get out of the big cities if you want to experience authentic Bali. And if you stay in the city, then please, at least put a shirt on!

3. Taxi Mafia and other scams

We know that many places around the world are notorious for scams – it’s not just Bali.

But we sometimes felt like people looked at us like walking wallets in the big cities. While this is also the case in many other countries, I just think that it’s a bit extreme in Bali’s bigger cities.

Did you for example know that there is a taxi mafia scheme going on in many cities such as Kuta, Canggu, and Ubud?

This means that you can’t really leave these cities (or at least it’s very hard) unless you book at taxi directly from the city. We once drove with a GOJEK driver (just like Uber), and he told us how the drivers get their tires slashed by the mafia if they pick up tourists in these cities.

That’s just crazy.

This means you always have to get an overpriced taxi if you want to go anywhere from these cities. We really hate to support that!

The official taxi company in Bali is called “Blue Bird”. However, some illegal taxi drivers have painted their fake taxi blue with the “Blue Bird” sign and are now scamming people they pick up.

We really hate that it has to be this complicated and expensive to go anywhere in Bali. And we’ve learned that the best way to get out of these cities is to get your next hotel to arrange pickup or see if you can find a local bus.

How travelers can become better visitors in Bali

So now that we’ve told you the bad and good things about Bali, we’d like to address what we as travelers can do to preserve this island instead of destroying it.

We have to ask ourselves why we travel in the first place. Is it to sit in a luxury villa in Bali where we can tan by the pool, eat western food all day long, and go clubbing every night? Or is it to explore a new place where you can discover new experiences, connect with locals, and create new memories?

For us, it’s definitely the latter

Don’t get us wrong. We wouldn’t mind living in a luxury villa on a two-week vacation, and it’s not like we have anything against you if you do that. We’ve even tried it ourselves for a few days. We’re just tired of the way influencers are portraying Bali as just a luxurious vacation spot where you can do whatever you want – like that’s all Bali is good for.

Please, just go outside and explore this amazing island! Make your visit in Bali worth it.

Don’t go on an Instagram tour, instead go on a local tour in the rice fields. Eat at the local warungs and try the Balinese food. Visit the temples (appropriately dressed!) and learn about the Balinese Hindu culture.

Bali has so much to offer, yet a lot of tourists don’t learn much about the island while they’re here.

So let’s all be better travelers for Bali in 2023!

Go support the locals by eating at the warungs and try to get out of the luxury resorts in the cities and stay a night or two in the countryside. Experience the beautiful nature and the hospitality of the local people.

Put on a shirt when you walk around in the big cities, don’t get drunk and start harassing people in Kuta, be respectful of new cultures, and try to meet the locals eye to eye. Just be a better traveler!

Is Bali still worth visiting in 2023?

So, this takes us back to the main question – is Bali still worth visiting?

YES. 100%. Definitely.

But it really depends on what you want out of your travels.

We honestly don’t know when we’ll return to Bali. Maybe it’ll be a while because we would like to see a bit more of Indonesia first (remember Bali is only 1 out of more than 17.000 islands in Indonesia).

But when we do return to Bali, we will try to avoid the big touristic cities. We want to discover more of the awesome places in Bali’s countryside.

In all honesty, Bali is not even in our top 10 favorite destinations. Yet there is something so interesting about the culture, which we know will draw us back in the future. Bali can best be described with this one word: Unique.

So yes, Bali is definitely still worth visiting in 2023.

We honestly hate being negative… And we know there is a lot of negative sentiment in this blog post since it’s about whether or not Bali is still worth visiting.

But we kinda wrote this with the intention to make people treat Bali better, and we also want the people who write off Bali from the bucket list understand that there are still so many great things to discover in Bali – you just have to go look for it!

We hope we didn’t tire you too much with this blog post… If you have any questions about whether or not Bali is still worth visiting – or how to be a better traveler – then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment.

Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Hi, I'm Cecilie! And I'm the writer behind our travel blog. I only write about places that we've personally been to and want to recommend to you. I'm passionate about creating truthful travel guides, which can help you plan your own trip. When I'm not traveling or writing, you'll find me on a hiking trail, in a coffee shop, or in a shoe store around Copenhagen.

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Thank you for interesting insights about Bali. Me and my wife are thinking to visit Bali this winter, therefore, it is nice to hear something true and unadorned about some destinations 🙂

Dear Evaldas, I’m happy you found my blog post helpful. There are definitely many great things to discover in Bali, but if it’s your first time there then you should see some of the less crowded places (Like try to avoid spending too long in Kuta). My views are pre-pandemic of course, so who knows? Some things may have changed. Best of luck – I hope you decide to go on the trip 🙂

Hi Cecilia, I plan to visit Bali in the near future and I find your blog to be some what helpful. My takeaway from your blog Is that you are to be seen as a “white tourist”. I am a bit speculative that you find yourself in the situation here in this destination only. My question is have you travel to any another toursit destination where you may have been felt like you were a target?

Hi Nancy, I don’t mention at any point that this is the only place I have ever been harassed while traveling. There are several places around the world where I have felt uncomfortable. This is just my honest take on the big cities of Bali where I felt it a lot. But who knows? Places change and I haven’t visited since 2020. My main point of the blog post is that we travelers have to behave better in the big cities and go visit some of the more unique, beautiful places that are on this island. And also, I don’t understand what your point is about me being seen as a “white tourist” – That I also don’t mention in this blog post, so you will have to elaborate. Enjoy Bali – there are so many beautiful places here! Best, Cecilie

Thank you for this much needed post! I’ve been wondering if I should go to Bali or Vietnam on my next trip and I’ve been worried about Bali being too touristy and instagrammy. And yes from my research seeing all the cafes serving smoothie bowls for breakfast is quite annoying to me too!

Hi Steph! Oh those destinations are so different! Bali is definitely way more touristic, whereas Vietnam can be pretty rough around the edges. Both destinations are great in so many ways, but I absolutely love Vietnam! However, don’t write Bali off just yet – there are so many great places to see on this island. Just get out of the big touristic spots – then you also won’t find the smoothie bowls haha. I hope you will have a wonderful trip wherever you end up! Best of luck, Cecilie

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19-Day Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali Tour

Discover the historic treasures of Vietnam in Hanoi, cruise through Halong Bay, and immerse yourself in the charm of Hoi An. Then, experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Thailand in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, where ancient temples and bustling markets await. Finally, unwind in the tropical paradise of Bali, with its stunning beaches and lush landscapes. This comprehensive itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

We can customize this trip by adding anything you're interested in and scheduling days to fit your pace. We would happily organize a unique theme or activities for birthdays, young children, anniversaries, etc.

• Best For: Slow Pacers and Couples
• Departure date: Up to you
• Sample Price: From US$4750 p/p, (2 per room)*
• Flights: SE Asia's included (international on request)

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour Highlights

Here are the fantastic attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:

Traverse the charming streets of Hoi An while indulging in mouthwatering dishes at local eateries

Experience a captivating 2-hour rowing boat journey through vietnam's longest tunnel cave, journey to the former presidential palace , once the heart of the saigon government during the american war., stay on emperor cruise to sail and explore the enchanting halong bay., explore historical sites and relics of ayutthaya at historical park., embark on an invigorating trek along the gibbon route in khao yai national park., experience maeklong railway market at its busiest and interact with passing locals., spend a half-day to take care of the rescued elephants in chiang mai, take a glance of one of bali's most captivating natural wonders: kelingking beach., suggested itinerary for inspiration.

The itinerary serves as a mere example of a personalized tour, designed exclusively for you. Your preferences will shape the authentic journey. We are fully prepared to craft an tailor-made tour that fulfills your desires.

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Ho Chi Minh City. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: Begin your day exploring Saigon's rich history. Admire the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral with its iconic twin spires (please note that interior visits might be limited due to ongoing renovations). Right across the square, visit the Central Post Office, an architectural gem completed in 1891.

Presidential Palace: Journey to the former Presidential Palace, once the heart of the Saigon Government during the American War. Delve into its historical significance and architectural grandeur.

War Remnants Museum: Gain a poignant perspective on the American War through the lens of the Vietnamese people at the War Remnants Museum. Please be aware that some exhibits are graphic in nature.

Saigon's Coffee Culture: Experience the vibrant street coffee culture of Saigon while your guide provides language tips and insights into the daily life of locals. Savor a cup of coffee and soak in the city's unique atmosphere before returning to your hotel.

My Son Sanctuary: Begin your day with a visit to the captivating My Son Sanctuary, an extraordinary Hindu temple complex nestled in Southeast Asia. This sacred site played a pivotal role in the Cham civilization, ruling over Central Vietnam from the 2nd to the 13th century. Your journey begins with a stop at Phuoc Kieu Village, renowned for its centuries-old bronze crafting heritage. Immerse yourself in the intricate artistry of this unique craft before delving into the world of the revered Cham Towers.

Hoi An Street Food Walking Tour: Dive into the heart of Vietnamese culture by exploring its culinary treasures on this delightful street food adventure. Traverse the charming streets of Hoi An while indulging in mouthwatering dishes at local eateries. You'll have the chance to savor renowned delicacies like the famous white rose dumplings, Vietnamese pancakes, caolau noodles, and banh mi (Vietnamese bread) at the acclaimed Banh Mi Phuong, highly recommended by the legendary Anthony Bourdain.

Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour (Half-Day): As you explore Vietnam's captivating capital, a visit to Hanoi's renowned Old Quarter, famously known as the "36 Streets," is a must. This district boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century, serving as a bustling hub for residents, artisans, and merchants. What makes it unique is the fascinating specialization of each street, with each dedicated to a specific craft or trade. Even today, the Old Quarter retains its distinctive architecture and offers a diverse range of products, providing a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of its inhabitants.

Hoa Lu: We arrive at Hoa Lu, an ancient capital of Vietnam. Here, you'll delve into history as you explore the Dinh King Temple and Le King Temple, both dating back to the 10th century. These temples are steeped in heroic tales of the kings who fought valiantly during the Chinese Wars.

Trang An: Next, we visit Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site honored in 2014. Nestled near Tam Coc, Trang An is a natural reserve that mirrors the beauty of Tam Coc but with fewer crowds. Surrounded by limestone hills, it boasts a serene river meandering through a series of enchanting caves. Trang An is an eco-tourism haven known for its tranquil atmosphere, interrupted only by the melodic chirping of birds and the gentle paddle of oars in the crystal-clear river.

River Exploration: During a captivating 2-hour rowing boat journey, you'll glide through Vietnam's longest tunnel cave, a remarkable 15-minute passage. This dark, mystical tunnel offers a unique experience as you traverse it, surrounded by awe-inspiring karst landscapes.

Mua Cave: We continue our adventure, heading to Mua Cave, also affectionately known as the "Dancing Cave." Be prepared for a rewarding climb of nearly 500 steps to reach the summit of Lying Dragon Mountain. Here, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic vista of Tam Coc and its surrounding beauty.

Boarding: Your journey begins as our Cruise Director warmly welcomes you aboard Emperor Cruises Halong. Get ready to set sail and explore the enchanting Halong Bay.

Lunch: A delectable set lunch menu awaits you at our Can Chanh Palace Restaurant on the main deck. Savor the flavors of authentic Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the bay.

Explore Bright & Dark Cave: We'll cruise to the Bright & Dark Cave Area, a natural wonderland that marks the boundary between Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Here, you have free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters or embark on a colorful kayaking adventure, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay.

Afternoon Delights: Join us on the Sundeck for a relaxing Afternoon tea accompanied by music and delightful Canapes. Don't miss the chance to participate in a captivating cooking demonstration, where you can try your hand at mastering the art of traditional Vietnamese cuisine amidst the picturesque surroundings.

Dinner: As the night descends upon Halong Bay, indulge in our exquisite A La Carte course menu at the Royal Palace Restaurant on board. Allow the charm of Halong Bay to captivate you as you savor a delightful dinner.

Rise early to embrace the tranquility of Halong Bay with a Vovinam exercise session on the sundeck. Feel the warmth of the morning sun as you prepare for a rejuvenating day.

Before embarking on your adventure, savor a light breakfast featuring an assortment of teas, coffee, pastries, cookies, and fresh juices at our luxurious restaurant.

Explore Me Cung Cave: Dive into the rich history and archaeology of Halong Bay as you discover the awe-inspiring Me Cung Cave, also known as the Cave of Maze. This remarkable destination offers insights into Halong Culture dating back 10,000 years. Marvel at the intricate formations of stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave, and immerse yourself in its diverse ecological wonders.

Maeklong Railway Market: Our first stop is the Maeklong Railway Market, a market unlike any other. Picture this: a bustling market with a railway track running right through its heart. Multiple times a day, a train passes through, and the market transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. Vendors hurriedly pull back their awnings and products to make way for the train, creating an unforgettable moment for both tourists and locals.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Next, we head to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where you'll witness the traditional Thai way of buying and selling goods on the water. Explore the vibrant market, take in the sights, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Bridge over the River Kwai: Our journey continues westward to Kanchanaburi, where we visit the historic Bridge over the River Kwai. This iconic bridge holds a significant place in history as it was built by thousands of Allied prisoners of war during World War II under Japanese captivity. Learn about the challenges faced by the prisoners as they worked on this engineering marvel.

War Cemetery and Death Railway Museum: Pay your respects at the Second World War cemetery, the final resting place of 6,982 Australian, Dutch, and British prisoners of war who sacrificed their lives during the railway's construction. Explore the Death Railway Museum, which houses a collection of photographs and physical artifacts dating back to World War II.

Historic Train Ride: Conclude our day with a historic train ride, retracing the steps of those who endured the construction of the Death Railway.

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace: Our first stop is the majestic Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, situated between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. Originally constructed in the 17th century during the Ayutthaya era, this royal palace fell into disrepair after the Burmese invasion of 1767. It was lovingly restored under the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) in 1850. Today, it still serves as a residence for the royal family. The palace is a true gem, offering picturesque views and ample photo opportunities.

Ayutthaya Historical Park: Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the remnants of temples and palaces from the ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom. This historical treasure is located on an island encircled by three rivers, the former heart of the capital city. During your tour, you'll visit five iconic temples, including Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Don't miss the famous sight of the Buddha head nestled amidst the tree roots at Wat Mahathat.

Rice Barge Dinner Cruise: As the day winds down, experience an enchanting evening aboard a traditional teak rice barge on the serene Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Marvel at the illuminated historical ruins of Ayutthaya and observe the timeless daily activities of the riverside communities. All of this while relishing a delectable selection of Thai cuisine. Allow the romantic ambiance of Ayutthaya's old capital to sweep you away.

Wildlife Spotting and National Park Museum: During your journey, pause at a scenic viewpoint for wildlife spotting, offering a chance to glimpse gibbons, pig-tailed macaque monkeys, or hornbills in their natural habitat. Continue to the Khao Yai National Park museum headquarters to delve into the park's fascinating flora and fauna.

Trek the Gibbon Route: Embark on an invigorating trek along the Gibbon Route, leading you through the park's captivating trails. Along the way, keep an eye out for mineral rocks and visit a watching tower for breathtaking panoramic views.

Haew Narok Waterfall: Visit the stunning Haew Narok Waterfall, one of the park's renowned natural wonders. Be awestruck by the grandeur of this expansive waterfall, and stay alert for possible glimpses of wild elephants on your way.

Thrilling Night Safari: As night falls, prepare for an exhilarating night safari adventure. Switch to a 4WD vehicle equipped with spotlights to enhance visibility. Your mission during this nocturnal expedition: spotting the park's diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for civets, deer, barking deer, porcupines, wild dogs, and even majestic elephants. Your expert guide will offer valuable insights and assist you in spotting these remarkable creatures.

Haew Suwat Waterfall: After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, get set for another thrilling day in Khao Yai National Park. Your adventure commences with a convenient hotel pickup.

This time, you'll embark on an exhilarating trek along the picturesque Haew Suwat nature trail. As you traverse this scenic path, you'll find yourself surrounded by the park's lush landscapes, offering an immersive experience in nature's splendor. Keep your eyes peeled as the trail may reveal various wildlife species, such as crocodiles, monitors, and Chinese water dragons.

As your journey unfolds, you'll be treated to a breathtaking sight: Haew Suwat Waterfall. This majestic waterfall is the very spot where Leonardo DiCaprio leaped from in the movie "The Beach." Take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the waterfall, capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

Half Day Elephant Rescue Park Experience (No Riding, Private Transfers, Join-in Activities): Nestled in a pristine valley just 1.5 hours outside of Chiang Mai, the Elephant Rescue Park is a sanctuary dedicated to providing a loving and safe home for homeless elephants. During your visit, you'll have the extraordinary opportunity to spend a half-day caring for these magnificent creatures. This experience goes beyond traditional elephant riding and instead focuses on meaningful interactions.

Your day begins with a private tour guide meeting you at your hotel around 8:00 am. From there, you'll embark on a journey to the park, which takes approximately one and a half hours. Upon arrival, you'll change into provided uniforms and participate in an informative introductory discussion before engaging in the activities.

Interact with the elephants in a respectful manner, feed them, walk alongside them, embrace their gentle presence, and even have the chance to bathe these remarkable beings. After an enriching morning, savor a delicious lunch at the park. Your private guide and driver will then transport you back to your hotel around 2:00 pm.

Cooking Classes Experience: Embark on a culinary adventure in the serene countryside, just 9 kilometers (6 miles) east of Chiang Mai, at the Baan Hong Nual School. Thai cuisine's subtle flavors and unique presentation have gained worldwide acclaim. In this immersive program, you'll uncover the secrets of Thai cooking and master the art of crafting traditional Thai dishes.

The four-dish course encompasses a delightful selection of soups, salads, curries, satay, and desserts. You'll learn the techniques of stir-frying, steaming, and the art of serving food the Thai way. These newfound culinary skills will leave you well-prepared to impress your loved ones upon your return.

Evening at Doi Suthep: Chiang Mai's Sacred Sanctuary. Just a short drive from Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is a captivating national park in northern Thailand. Here, nature's beauty shines with lush landscapes, serene waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. The park also houses the renowned Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple, a spiritual gem constructed in 1382.

Doi Suthep beckons outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking and cycling. From the temple's hilltop perch, you'll enjoy sweeping views of Chiang Mai, particularly enchanting at twilight. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep holds deep significance in Buddhism, attracting Thai pilgrims, especially during Makha Bucha and Visakha Bucha (in February and May).

Our tour offers an exclusive experience, taking place in the tranquil late afternoon when crowds thin out. You'll have the privilege of exploring Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where resident monks' soothing chants accompany the glittering lights of Chiang Mai below. Meditation at the temple is also an option for those seeking a deeper connection. This evening excursion promises spiritual enrichment amidst northern Thailand's cultural treasures.

Doi Inthanon National Park: Nature, Culture, and Adventure. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park's natural and cultural wonders as you journey through stunning landscapes. Visit pagodas dedicated to the King and Queen with breathtaking mountain views. Immerse yourself in a Karen hill tribe village and explore the Hill Tribe Market.

Experience adventure on the Kiew Mae Pan Nature Trail, a 3-kilometer trek through lush forests with stunning Rhododendrons, waterfalls, and streams. Enjoy mountain panoramas at the trail's end.

For a unique perspective, take the Mae Klang Luang Nature Trail downhill, passing the Pa Dok Siew Waterfall. Explore the Mae Klang Luang Karen village with coffee bushes and rice paddies. Don't miss trying freshly roasted coffee at a local coffee house. This day offers nature, culture, and adventure in Doi Inthanon National Park.

Our first stop is Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple), one of Krabi's most stunning temples. Explore its limestone caves with mesmerizing stalagmites and stalactites. The temple's surroundings are graced with lush trees and a golden pagoda atop a mountain, reached by climbing over 1,000 steps.

Next, we'll visit the Hot Spring, where you can experience natural relaxation by immersing yourself in the warm stream. These hot springs are renowned for their high temperature (38-42°C) and mineral-rich waters, perfect for a soothing hydrotherapy bath.

Our final destination is the enchanting Emerald Lagoon. Nestled in a shaded, forested area, the lagoon's water changes color throughout the day. Dive into the crystal-clear, green waters of this 1.2-meter deep lagoon for a refreshing swim.

Banyumala Twin Waterfall: Nestled near the Twin Lakes, Banyumala Twin Waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the crowds. This hidden gem is the perfect spot for a summer swim, with its cool and pristine waters inviting you to take a dip.

Ulun Danu Bratan (Water Temple): Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Ulun Danu Bratan, often considered Bali's most breathtaking temple. This temple appears to float on the serene Tamblingan Lake, creating a picture-perfect scene that will stay with you forever.

Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest: Begin your adventure in the famed Alas Kedaton, home to Bali's cheekiest inhabitants - the macaque monkeys. Wander among towering nutmeg trees, sacred to the Balinese people, and get up close and personal with these playful creatures. A visit to Bali is incomplete without witnessing their antics.

Pura Taman Ayung (Royal Temple): Our next stop takes us to Mengwi, where you'll explore the majestic Pura Taman Ayung, a 17th-century Royal Temple. Admire its architectural splendor and soak in the serene atmosphere of one of Bali's most beautiful temples.

Tanah Lot Temple at Sunset: As the day draws to a close, we'll take you to the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, perched dramatically on a rock just off the shore. This temple is not only a marvel of Balinese architecture but also a photographer's dream, especially during sunset when the surroundings take on a surreal glow. Textexaam.

Kelingking Beach: Our adventure kicks off at Kelingking Beach, one of Indonesia's most captivating natural wonders. Despite its name translating to "pinkie finger," this renowned viewpoint is famous for its uncanny resemblance to a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Stand atop steep cliffs and gaze at the imposing rock formation, which extends into the ocean, cradling a pristine white sand beach.

Broken Beach: Our next stop is Broken Beach, locally known as Pantai Pasih Uug. This unique destination boasts a naturally formed lagoon—a circular hole nestled within rocky cliffs, seemingly enclosed from all sides. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink from a nearby stall and marvel at this natural spectacle as clear waters flow in from the surrounding ocean.

Angel's Billabong: From the towering heights of Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach, venture closer to the water at Angel's Billabong. This natural "infinity pool" is a serene lagoon framed by rugged volcanic rocks. The crystal-clear water allows you to observe intricate rock formations on the pool's floor.

Crystal Bay Beach: After an exploration-filled morning, savor lunch at a local restaurant before making your way to Crystal Bay Beach. Dive into the tranquil and pristine waters of this picturesque beach, teeming with exotic marine life. A thriving coral reef awaits not far from the shore, making it the perfect spot to rent snorkeling gear and explore underwater wonders. Whether you're swimming, diving, or simply relaxing under the shade of a swaying coconut tree, you'll find plenty of friendly "warungs" (local shops and eateries) offering snacks and cold drinks.

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to Bali Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.

Our Service Includes:

• Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
• All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
• Hand-picked star-rating accommodation for each destination
• Breakfasts at hotels and lunches for every guided day
• Governmental taxes

Tour code: ah-cx-2

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Bali vs Phuket: An Honest Comparison [2023] To Help You Decide

W hen it comes to bucket list getaways, Bali and Phuket are two destinations that should be near the top of everyone’s list. However choosing which one to visit for that once-in-a-lifetime holiday can be exceptionally difficult.

Both of these tropical paradises can offer unique varied experiences. From romantic getaways for couples looking for sun, sea, and sand, to the adventurous backpacker who wants to scuba dive and temple hop in one of the world’s most exotic regions.

But from our experience, we’d say if you’re looking for sun, sea, sand and fun when the sun goes down then Phuket would be a better choice than more laid-back Bali. Phuket also has better beaches than Bali.

Yet Bali is arguably the more beautiful destination, and is probably the better choice if you’re looking for a relaxed vacation with a mix of sunbathing and adventure like jungle trekking, swimming in waterfalls and surfing.

However in truth, that’s just scratching the surface when it comes to how different – and similar – these two destinations are.

Thankfully we know both Bali and Phuket well, so are here to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll show you which is better for excursions, nightlife, expenses, culture, give you recommendations on what to see and where to stay, and even more. Let’s get started!

• Which Has Better Beaches
• Which Is Better For A Honeymoon
• Which Has Better Excursions
• Which Has Better Nightlife
• Which Is The Better Cultural Experience
• Which Is Cheaper

Where You Should Stay According To Your Budget

• Which Is Safer
• Which Has Better Food

Which Has Better Beaches?

Bali and Phuket have some wonderful beaches and if you’re looking for sun, sea, and sand then both will keep you happy.

That said, there are important differences between the two.

But in general, we would say that the beaches in Phuket are better than the beaches in Bali, mainly due to the sand being softer, and the water being calmer, warmer and better for swimming.

Below we look at the beaches in both destinations in more detail, as well as show you what the most popular ones have to offer. That way you can decide for yourself which island suits you best when it comes to the battle of the beaches.

Bali: The Beaches

That said, Bali is a renowned beach destination in itself and is great for catching a wave. However as we said, that does mean you will find many beaches in Bali where the water isn’t as calm for swimming as beaches in Thailand.

You don’t need to travel too far from the airport to find a suitably beautiful stretch of sand in Bali. The distance from the airport to the popular Kuta Beach is a little over five kilometers.

Kuta is the busiest area of Bali, and the beach is very popular throughout the day and for the stunning sunset in the evening. Kuta Beach is also an excellent location for your first surf lesson.

This area is also at the center of Bali’s nightlife and shopping and is a great place to stay (more on nightlife later).

On Bali’s north-east coast you can find Tulamben . Many consider this as the best snorkeling beach in Bali, as the water is warmer than in the south of the island, and there’s a shipwreck! 

The wreck of the USS Liberty has been lying underwater there just yards from the beach for decades, and is a haven for marine life. This is one of the most accessible wreck dives in the world and is a must-visit for any snorkeler as it sits in very shallow water.

There’s an excellent chance of seeing turtles there too, and if you get up early for a dawn snorkel, you may be rewarded with the sight of the wreck’s resident bumphead parrotfish leaving the wreck en masse to search for breakfast.

On top of that, Bali actually lies in the center of the ‘Coral Triangle’ – an incredibly diverse marine area which attracts lots of sealife, making this island and its beaches one of the best places to snorkel and dive in the world!

All in all, there are some lovely stretches of coastline in Bali, and many beaches perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming – albeit the sea isn’t as calm as Phuket, and the sand tends to be not as white.

Phuket: The Beaches

The main beaches in Phuket are found on the island’s west coast, and so are perfect for a sunset gin and tonic. The northern beaches are smaller and quieter, with the main bustling tourist beaches being towards the south.

Phuket’s famous beaches include Kata Beach , which offers a busy slice of paradise with street vendors, fancy hotels, and beach activities (such as snorkeling).

Freedom Beach offers a more serene choice, whilst still providing convenient access to food vendors and beach chairs.

Yet in general you should expect a livelier beach experience in Phuket than in Bali as the Thai island has many beaches that are developed and geared towards nightlife. In comparison you can still find remote stretches of sand with not much development in Bali.

But when you’re on holiday you tend to want soft white sands, calm waters, plenty of water sports, and lots of amenities and beach bars – that’s exactly what Phuket offers.

Which Is Better For A Honeymoon?

Although Phuket has the better beaches, Phuket is also lively, a bit chaotic at times, developed, and can get very busy.

Bali, on the other hand, is a bit more relaxed and less developed. With its stunning coastline and jungle-covered interior we believe it’s also a more beautiful destination than Phuket too.

Furthermore, while Phuket has options for budget-strapped backpackers through to millionaires looking to party, Bali has marketed itself as a high-end resort destination and has some exceptional hotels.

In general, expect adventure in Bali but also a sense of serenity in a romantic feeling destination. Phuket, on the other hand, is a little more lively. And arguably a bit more chaotic.

All of which has made Bali a romantic and special vacation well suited to honeymooners.

Winner: Bali

Bali or Phuket: Which Has Better Excursions?

If you’re looking to do more than just sunbathe and swim, then both have some great potential excursions.

When it comes to which is better for excursions and activities, we actually think both islands are pretty equal in that regard – as you’ll see below…

Bali: The Excursions

Bali in particular is suited to those looking for a little adventure in their holiday.

Bali’s stunning coral reefs and sandy beaches give way to a forested volcano-sculpted inland – the perfect place to discover exotic wildlife, stunning temples, and go jungle trekking.

West Bali National Park is just a three-hour drive from the airport, but is virtually unexplored rainforest. Whilst Bali’s northern-central rainforests have some spectacular hikes and waterfalls – Git Git and Sekumpul are two of our favorites.

And for some peaceful, chilled vibes in Bali, you should definitely spend time enjoying Ubud . In Ubud, you can enjoy walks through the rice paddies as well as the vibrant arts and craft scene. It’s a great place for a yoga retreat and for enjoying being surrounded by verdant nature. There’s also Ubud Monkey Forest where you get to meet – you guessed it! – many monkeys!

But if you want a bit more of a challenge when in Bali, why not climb one of the island’s volcanoes? This does tend to involve a very early morning start, but the views and the satisfaction of reaching the summit more than make up for this.

The treks to reach the summit of Mount Agung are the most popular, as it’s the tallest volcano on Bali, standing at 3,142 meters above sea level. But treks to the top of Mount Batur are also well worth the effort. This walk is a little easier, and Mount Batur offers stunning sunrise views from its summit too.

As you can see, Bali is a place where you can surf and sunbathe in the morning, then wild swim in waterfalls, hike with monkeys and visit volcanoes. Simply put, you won’t get bored!

Recommended: The Most Dangerous Animals In Bali & How To Avoid Them

Phuket: The Excursions

Phuket Island is much bigger than most tourists realise, and a trip north of the main city will bring you to jungles, waterfalls, and the island’s natural side.

Around 25km north of the city is Phuket Elephant Sanctuary , where you can meet some of Thailand’s most famous inhabitants.

Off the coast of Phuket are some breathtakingly beautiful islands too – Ko Yao Yai and the Phi Phi islands are some of our favourites and are perfect for island hopping adventures.

Of course there’s plenty of water activities and excursions too – from catamaran trips and jet skis, to snorkeling and scuba diving.

From Phuket, the best dives are at three sites clustered together, quite close to Phi Phi – which is also a great place to head to for snorkeling. The three dive sites are called Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and the King Cruiser Wreck. These three dives can often be done on one dive trip which is an added bonus.

Let’s not forget that the calm waters around Phuket – as we mentioned earlier – makes a snorkeling and scuba diving excursion on the island safe, and often a great place for beginners to learn too.

Which Has Better Nightlife?

If you plan on letting loose and hitting the party scene when on vacation, you’ll be pleased to know that both Bali and Phuket have a fun nightlife scene.

However Phuket’s nightlife and world famous party scene probably wins in this department – especially if your idea of a fun evening is beach parties and crazy nights out.

Bali: The Nightlife

Bali has a burgeoning nightlife scene that improves year on year, with the Kuta , Legian and Seminyak areas becoming the party centres of the island. There are many clubs and bars in these areas, and several don’t charge entrance fees which is a big plus.

If you’re new to the island, then Bali party-seekers should first head toward Kuta and Seminyak. Kuta is at the heart of Bali’s nightlife, with its labyrinthine alleys lined with bars and clubs. It’s a great place for a night of barhopping and dancing.

Seminyak is a little more restrained and classier, and there are some great beach clubs here, including W Bali and Potato Head Beach Club .

Both beach clubs are an excellent way to spend a lazy afternoon soaking up some sun, and after dark they attract the party crowd when the top international DJs hit the decks.

Bali is also a safe destination at night, and problems involving locals and tourists is low. Just be wary of inebriated drivers on scooters!

Phuket: The Nightlife

Thailand is famous for its party scene and no wonder. For those looking for a wild time, Bangla Road in Phuket’s Patong offers its own selection of bars, go-go clubs and neon-covered craziness. As well as the famous adult entertainment clubs that have become synonymous with Thailand.

You’re always find a party somewhere on Bangla Road, and as the street becomes pedestrian-only in the evening, the road itself becomes a bit of a party place where party-goers mix as they go from club to club.

Simply put, Phuket comes alive as the sun sets, and people from around the world come here to experience Thailand’s ‘sin city’ and the various vices it caters too.

For a more chilled party in Phuket, the beach clubs in Kamala and Bang Tao are excellent too. Café del Mar has a chilled beach club in Kamala and is one of the best sunset spots on the island.

Bang Tao, the next beach up from Kamala, is home to Catch Beach Club. Both of these beaches are a great place to end the day and start the party with a sunset cocktail and some cool tunes.

However, while Phuket is in general a safe destination at night, you do have to exercise caution in the evening. Despite that, when it comes to a lively nightlife scene, Phuket will never let you down.

Which Is The Better Cultural Experience?

Bali: the culture.

The majority Hindu island of Bali has a plethora of stunning temples, from exotic beachside sanctuaries, to houses of worship hidden deep in the jungle interior.

Go temple hopping around the island for a cultural experience, and a way to see Bali in its full glory. Tirta Empul Temple – with its holy water that you can bathe in which is said to clean you of your sins – is an unforgettable experience.

This island feels very different from the ‘West’ and is a great destination for any culture aficionado, although it’s certainly getting more Westernized with the influx of tourists in recent years.

However the fact remains that with a population of over four million people, and huge diversity across the island, Bali is still a culture-seekers paradise.

If you do visit the island we recommend watching a Balinese Gamelan show – the traditional music of the Balinese. It’s a great way to get a real taste of the island’s heritage and culture.

Phuket: The Culture

Phuket feels more ‘Westernised’ than Bali, and you’ll have no problem finding chain restaurants and hotels there. However beyond the beach bars and hotel complexes there’s lots of culture to be found.

Phuket has many different things on offer, the most famous being the Big Buddha (yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like) a gigantic Buddha statue sitting at the top of Nakkerd Hill.

You could – and should – also have a go at Muay Thai , Thailand’s national sport. Muay Thai (or Thai Boxing) can be traced back to 18th century Thailand, and has its roots deeply ingrained in Thai culture.

Gyms up and down Phuket offer training sessions (from a single day, to several months!) for foreigners and it’s a fantastic way to get to know this country and culture. In fact that’s something we’ve even written about in the past.

Which Is The Most Beautiful?

Phuket may win when it comes to beaches, but Bali wins when it comes to the overall landscape.

Bali not only has gorgeous beaches, but also a dramatic coastline, cliffs and a mountainous inland that’s made up of jungle-covered volcanos and countless waterfalls.

At times those jungles are replaced by gorgeous rice paddies that rise up into the clouds. Head to Tegalalang to see some of the most beautiful tropical rice terraces on the planet. Then speak to the friendly locals in the villages about their life and work when there – you won’t regret it.

Phuket is pretty too, but with its highest peak more than five times smaller than Bali’s highest mountain, the difference in landscape is clear.

Which Is Cheaper?

Phuket would be a better holiday choice if you want to travel cheaply, as this island – and Thailand in general – is full of countless cheap accommodation options catered to visitors.

There are many hostels, guest houses and hotels on the island due to it being a popular backpacker destination for years.

Plus it’s easy and cheap to hire a scooter to get around. However on the coast near the best-known beaches, you can also find upscale hotel resorts that have every amenity and luxury imaginable.

Bali’s natural habitats allow you to holiday in style too, with upmarket hotels deep in the jungle, yoga retreats in the mountains, as well as the usual 4 and 5 star beachside break accommodations.

There’s a variety of accommodation for all budgets in Bali too so there are options for travelers on a limited budget – although this island does like to market itself mainly as a high end resort destination. Because of that, there are less budget options than in Phuket.

As for eating out, we’ve found food to be slightly cheaper in Phuket, whether that is from restaurants or street food.

Winner: Phuket

Shoestring: Rice Padi Artha , a five-star guesthouse with gorgeous views and a tropical garden is set close to Monkey Forest Ubud and many other attractions.

This friendly place is surrounded by nature and rice paddies, while the guest house itself is authentic-style Balinese. And incredibly, all of that comes on a backpacker’s budget. See photos and rates here!

Budget: With beautiful beachside bungalows and a pool with an unbeatable Indian Ocean view, Nirwana Beach & Resort feels far more luxurious than the price tag. Set in pristine Eastern Bali, you’ll be taking photos everywhere you turn if staying here. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: It would be easy to recommend another beachside resort in Bali, but instead we had to suggest what must be one of the most magical hotels in the world. At Munduk Heaven Luxury Villas you’ll be walking across bridges above the treetops to get to their stunning restaurant, bar and outside pool.

But don’t expect to have your feet on the ground when returning to your room – you’ll be staying in their luxury ‘floating villas’ complete with jacuzzi and jungle views from above! It’s a place that really has to be seen to be believed. See photos and rates here!

Shoestring: Situated in Phuket’s Old Town, Baan Baan hostel is a tastefully decorated hostel known for being modern, pristine, fun, and an extremely friendly place. If you’re traveling on a shoestring budget, this is your best choice in the center of the action. See photos and rates here!

Budget: For a taste of luxury on a budget, then Island Escape by Burasari really is unbeatable. You’ll be taken on a boat shuttle to Coconut Island – five miles from Phuket center – where you’ll find a gorgeous five-star beachfront resort complete with swimming pool, private beach, outdoor activities and stunning views. It’s one of the nicest – and cheapest – five-star hotels we’ve ever come across in Thailand. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: Let’s be honest, if you’re traveling to Thailand then you will have access to some of the cheapest luxury resorts in the world. Sinae Phuket is one of them.

At this five-star resort, situated on a peninsula near Phuket center – so still close to the city action – you can find luxury villas complete with private swimming pools and gorgeous sea views. Bliss. See photos and rates here!

Which Is Safer?

Both are safe destinations, which is why tourists visit in their droves every year.

However as always when on holiday you should avoid confrontations with locals, avoid walking in unlit areas at night, and keep an eye on your drinks when at clubs and bars.

As for which destination is ultimately safer, you’ll find this is a contentious point among locals and tourists alike.

Yet we believe Bali is probably a slightly safer destination than Phuket – though there are things you must be careful of in Bali, as we’ve written about before . However Phuket and its lively nightlife scene, which caters to all types of vices, does attract some unsavoury characters.

Which Has Better Food?

There’s similarities in the cuisine on both islands, but you’ll find that food in Bali is pork and chicken dominated.

Order lawar , a dish that is made up of coconut, garlic, chili, and either chicken or pork meat and blood. Another traditional meaty dish in Bali is Bebek betutu , which is duck cooked with coconut inside banana leaves.

Thai food is famous around the world (and no wonder), so if you’re a food lover, then Phuket is going to be a dream destination. In general food in Thailand is likely to be spicier than the food you’ll come across in Bali too, so you may want to factor that in your decision about where to visit,

If visiting Phuket make sure you try the iconic Phat Thai – a delicious stir fry dish made with thin rice noodles, meat or shrimp.

You must try Thailand’s comfort food – Khao Phat – as well. This is a good hearty fried rice dish that comes combined with a variety of ingredients. It’s perfect for a long day exploring Thailand’s sights.

All in all the cuisine and traditional food in both destinations are noteworthy. However we believe Thai food is probably better.

Bali vs Phuket: Which Is The Better Choice?

If you’re looking for sun, sea, sand and fun when the sun goes down then Phuket would be a better choice than Bali. Phuket also has the better beaches, and some great excursion options.

However Bali is arguably the more beautiful destination, and is certainly the better choice if you’re looking for a relaxed vacation with a mix of sunbathing and adventure, alongside cultural attractions.

Recommended For Your Trip To Bali Or Phuket

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11-day Vietnam Travel Adventure + 6 Day Bali Beach Break

Table of contents, why vietnam & bali.

When my brother Rob and I first discussed going travelling together, we hadn’t imagined we would pull together such an amazing Cheap Vietnam Travel Adventure AND a 6 Day Bali Beach Break!

Rob had long dreamed of visiting Asia. Personally, having previously visited the region,  I’d already experienced the rich culture, beautiful scenery, and incredible sense of adventure. 

But it’s a fabulous continent and large enough to keep returning to for different experiences.

So with this in mind, what better place to visit than Vietnam!  Neither of us had been there but we knew that it would provide us with new experiences. With 11 days to play with and a goal to explore from top to bottom, we delved into how to create our Cheap Vietnam Travel Adventure with a Bali add-on. 

One major reason we chose to go to Vietnam was to venture to one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. A must-see was UNESCO protected Ha long Bay, which we recognised from childhood tales due to our mum’s (Ruby) love of travel.

But as well as Vietnam, Rob had always envisioned visiting Bali.  Having been there when I first left university, I loved what Bali had to offer! With beautiful beaches, it was the perfect place to  chill for a further 6 days at the end of our trip.  Destinations chosen; it was time to plan!

How To Plan Cheap Vietnam Travel

One thing I would strongly recommend if you’re going to travel around a country,  is to decide upon your route before you set off on your travels.  Because we were only travelling for around 11 days in Vietnam, this needed careful planing  to ensure we could see the  things we wanted to within this time.  If you were going for, say 2-3 months to Asia, it’s fine to have more of a rough plan as you’ll have a lot more flexibility about what and where you want to be at certain times.

Rob and I got together and created a priority list of the places/activities we really wanted to go/do. We then used this to try and create the best possible route if it was possible.  Our planning kicked off 3-4 months in advance. 

Stay flexible with your plan!

Vietnam, despite being a thin country on the map, is actually very long covering 1,650 km from most the northern point to the most southern. Up front, we organised our long-haul flights from London, an internal flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh and our flight from Ho Chi Minh to Bali. These were the main routes of transport we needed to lock in before adding more details.

We also arranged our first night stay in Hanoi, so we didn’t have to worry about finding a place on arrival. Other than that, we organised all internal travel and hotel stays whilst we were there which allowed great flexibility and proved to be very quick and easy.

We used Booking.com to book all our stays which was great as all our bookings/costing were kept in one place. This meant we could keep track of where we needed to be and how much we were spending up front on our Cheap Vietnam Travel Adventure.

🎒 TPOP Tip: There was plenty of good accommodation and excursion options in every place we visited. So our advice is that there’s no need to panic book everything before you start your travels.

How To Get To Vietnam

Once we decided that Vietnam was our main destination, it was then a case of researching flights/dates. We knew roughly when we wanted to go so used Skyscanner App to investigate options.  

As we are both in full time jobs, we decided to fly on a Saturday and return on a Monday.  Fortunately,  in the UK in May 2023,  there were 2 public holidays so despite being away for 17 days, we only had to use 9 days annual leave! It’s worthwhile thinking about national holidays using them to max out your travel days. 

After searching several different flights/operators we chose to fly with Singapore Airlines.  They have a great reputation, and the multi-city option was perfect as we could return from Bali rather than Hanoi!

We spent a premium of around £100-150 compared to other airlines, but this was definitely worth it. The flight crew were extremely accommodating, flights were smooth and more importantly they were on time! Total price was £1067.19pp. 

17 Day Itinerary Vietnam & Bali Itinerary

Our 17-day travel itinerary was designed for 11 days in Vietnam followed by 5 days in Bali, Indonesia. We got some amazing deals on hotels and we’re listing them a little further below to make it easy to check them out via Tripadvisor!  In total our accommodation cost just over £500 (620 USD) for both of us.

1 – London/Singapore/Hanoi. Flight from London Heathrow to Hanoi via  Singapore International

2 – Singapore to Hanoi

3 – Hanoi

4 – Hanoi to Sapa

5 – Sapa, then taking a Night bus back to Hanoi (leaving at 10:30pm, arriving at 4:30am)

6 – Ha long Bay & Overnight Cruise 

7/8 – Ninh Binh

9/10 – Da Nang

11 – Ho Chi Minh City

12 – Ho Chi Minh City to Bali, Indonesia

13/15 – Bali

16/17 – Return flight from Bali via Singapore to London.

How to Budget for Vietnam and Bali Trip

Before you go, I’d recommend having a rough idea of how much you would like to spend whilst you are travelling.

The best way I find to do this is to do some research of the areas you are travelling to and gather information in relation to rough accommodation costs, any activities you would like to do. Most importantly the price of a beer! This way, you can gain some idea around costings.  We decided not to stay in hostels but go to mid-range hotels which would allow for great comfort, but not blow the budget. 

If you want to do this trip more cheaply, use hostels to reduce your accommodation costs. The breakdown below gives you some idea of how much this trip cost us which we felt was reasonable given where we were booking and what we were doing. For more tips on getting affordable travel, read how to snag a travel deal!

Flight costs (Return flights from London, Internal Vietnamese Flight & Flight to Bali) = £1286pp

Accommodation costs (not including Halong Bay overnight cruise) = £265pp

Total Cost of Night Buses (2 taken) = £35pp

Rough Cost of Food/Drink/Other Expenses = £450-600pp + £75pp for Halong Bay

Overall Cost = Roughly between £2100 – £2250

Tips for Getting Around Vietnam

I think there’s always some apprehension about arriving at certain places that are culturally different from our own.  Questions on our mind included “how easy will it be to book sleeper buses, taxis, mopeds etc”. Don’t worry about this in Vietnam!  When you get here you realise it’s not nearly as challenging as you thought. In fact, travelling around Vietnam proved to be much easier than expected.

We were so impressed with how agile Vietnamese people are on mopeds. They seem to effortlessly transport huge loads without a second thought! Amazing! 

How to Plan Long DistanceTravel within Vietnam

As we were on a tight schedule, we knew we had to take 2 sleeper buses around the country during the night. This meant our days could be freed up to explore different areas without the need to do major travel! We used 12GO Asia which was a great app . I would highly recommend using this app when booking any longer domestic travel routes.

Another way you can book is through local agents. When 12GO Asia was showing no results, there were plenty of local agent shops in Hanoi. Thankfully one of them was able to arrange transport to Sapa. We’d have liked to experience a Vietnamese train journey but due to time constraints we were unable to fit this in. Definitely next time.

Shorter Distance Travel Tips Within Vietnam

When moving around cities or smaller distances,  use buses which again you can book online or through local agents.

If you’re getting taxis around cities/places, download the app ‘Grab’ . It seemed like every single Taxi operator was using. The App works just like Uber! You see the live location of your driver and it’s extremely user friendly. ‘Grab’ was available in both Vietnam and Bali which was great!

It was also very easy to rent mopeds. You likely will need to look into getting an international driver’s license just so you can legally drive in each country, but you can arrange this at most post offices before you go. Check out your local one online!

Where we stayed In Vietnam

Hanoi & sapa hotels, northern vietnam.

Emerald Waters Hotel & Spa, Hanoi

Hanoi Elpis Grand Hotel, Hanoi  

Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa

Ha long Bay and Ninh Binh

Tam Coc Dibi Villa, Ninh Binh

Tam Coc River view Homestay

Da Nang & Ho Chi Minh City

SOCO Hotel, Da Nang

Saigon Cactus Apartment

Where We Stayed in Bali

Bali, indonesia.

Asoka Hotel & Suites

Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa

Vietnam Highlights! Things You Must See and Do

HANOI – the capital of Vietnam was a brilliant visit! I think the fact that we arrived over the weekend made the experience even better. As well as the night market, there was lots of  entertainment on in the city. Great fun.

We spent a lot of our time around the Old Quarter, where we went for an Egg Coffee at the PostIt Note Café.  Egg coffee is a traditional drink in Vietnam so we thought we had to try it! 

We spent time walking around the city taking in the local sites so be prepared for a high step count! This included the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which was impressive, and the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. 

A lovely memory was getting stopped on a few occasions by local teachers who were out with their students practicing English – of course we were happy to help when they asked. It was so nice to see their smiling faces when we were chatting! Hanoi really is a great place to start to soak in the Vietnamese culture.

Sapa Mountains

One place you might not have heard of in Vietnam is Sapa . It’s a beautiful town situated in the mountains to the north. It jumped out to us as a place to visit, because it’s in quite a remote area. It was a chance for us to be more in touch with the natural surroundings and the local people. 

Despite it being quite foggy for most of the time we were there, there were some welcome outbreaks of sunshine. This gave us spectacular views of the mountains, the green rice fields, and rivers. At night, Sapa turns into a bright, vibrant town with lights in every direction and plenty of places to try the local cuisine.  Whether settling down to some beef pho or tucking into a whole chicken there was an incredible choice of affordable foods. 

We decided to hire mopeds whilst we were in Sapa – which was a must –  as it meant we could explore the area with ease. We visited Cat Cat Village which is around 10mins on the mopeds or around 30mins walk away. This proved to be one of the highlights of our whole trip as the village was like something out of a Disney film, with a small stream, farm animals dotted around; wooden huts, all of this with the backdrop beautiful waterfalls.

It took us around 2 hours to walk around the area, but it really was impressive and a must-see if visiting Sapa.

Ha long Bay

HA LONG BAY – I would say if you were visiting Vietnam then go to Ha Long Bay. We contemplated before we went about booking onto a tour, but you can easily book something when you arrive. I would strongly recommend doing an overnight cruise if you can, as the overall experience of this was great.

A 2-day, 1 night cruise is more than enough to see the surrounding area. There are 1963 small islands dotted around in the Ha Long Bay area, so sleeping in the heart of these was surreal. Book on with a cruise that has activities such as kayaking, cave exploring or even a cooking class as this adds something else to the trip.

This isn’t necessarily a place you’d think of immediately but I’m so happy we included this destination. Known as the ‘Ha Long Bay’ on land, we were blown away by the stunning scenery. It was easy to rent mopeds which we used both days to tour the surrounding areas. We visited Hoa Lu – Ninh Xuan which was a small mountain climb. From the top we saw spectacular views far into the distance.

We also visited the Bai Dinh Temple which was a huge site with ancient temples and statues (would recommend visiting here for an afternoon). On one of the days, we did a 4-hour boat journey through the river (Truong Yen area) which was so much fun! We had our own lady who rowed the boat the entire time, travelling through caves and stopping off at temple sites. We’d strongly suggest doing a boat trip like this one!

Ho Chi Minh City

We literally just transited through this modern western feeling city. Not because we didn’t want to see it, but because we had to prioritize our time. If you have the time to spend a couple of days here, check out the Chi Chi Tunnel system which is an emotional reminder of the Vietnam War times.  It’s pretty hard to believe that this was going on only a few decades ago. Here’s a couple of photos of our Auntie Jude visiting there.

After all our travelling in Vietnam, we wanted to have some time to relax and recharge before heading back to the UK.

The beauty of Bali is the fact that it provides you with so many different options depending on what you fancy doing for the day whether that be partying at night, chilling on the beach, or climbing Mount Batur, there are several options!

Now if you want a place for relaxation, look no further than Uluwatu in Bali. Uluwatu is known for its dramatic clifftop views, white sandy beaches, and its numerous beach clubs!

We stayed at the Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa (see link above to check it out) which is one of the nicest hotels I have stayed at. With an open lobby area for relaxation, to a huge infinity pool, it was the perfect place to chill out with some beers and soak in the sun!

The best thing about this hotel was the fact that it had its own beach club which hotel guests could use free of charge!

Every hour from around 10am, the hotel would provide a free shuttle bus which was a short 15minute drive down to the beach club. It is called Rooster’s and I would recommend if you’re looking for a chilled vibe. 

The staff were extremely accommodating, the food was delicious, and you could settle the bill at the end of the day which was a nice touch.

With so many other areas in Bali to visit, (hopefully) I will be back and go to a new part of the island to see what that has to offer! Ubud and the rice paddies for sure!

It's Possible! A Cheap Vietnam Travel Adventure

Looking back this trip was special not only because we organized it all ourselves, but because we did it as brothers. Since we were working and planning to save time, we also make good use of this 14 Day Countdown Travel Checklist!

Having the freedom to decide day to day as we moved around the country was great fun and we could be a bit spontaneous rather than feeling we had to follow a pre-set timetable.

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Karen Pritchett

Great post, so informative! I want to plan a trip!

Judithluberski

Wonderful destination Karen… let us know when go and share your highlights 🙂

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Vietnam vs Indonesia – The Best Guide to South East Asia 2023

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Hey there! I’m Renee, a wanderer at heart residing in the lovely UK. Writing about my travel escapades is my absolute passion—I live for those moments where I can share the thrill of exploration and the beauty of diverse cultures with you.

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Vietnam vs Indonesia? Which of these tropical paradises should be your next holiday destination?

Your workmate’s just come back from a two-week retreat in Bali. Your family friend’s just rounded off a motorbike trip of the Vietnamese highlands.

Let’s Face It – South East Asia is on everyone’s lips, having exploded as a tourist destination in recent years. And it’s hardly a question why.

Table of Contents

Vietnam vs Indonesia? Come explore with us here and feel our passion for the region

With pristine beaches bordered by sprawling jungles teeming with wildlife, centuries-old hospitable cultures and affordable prices, it’s your definition of tropical paradise.

So the real question is, where to go when there is so much to see?

Let’s take a look at two of your best options when it comes to travelling in South East Asia:

• Vietnam , a lush comma of land off the side of the Asian continent;
• Indonesia , a scatter of islands packed with tropical forests and wildlife.

So, what are you waiting for?

Let’s dive in!

Vietnam vs Indonesia – Natural Hotspots & Activities

Let’s start with Vietnam. Then I’ll show you what you can expect from Indonesia.

Vietnam Hotspots & Activities

Starting off any tourist guide of Vietnam is its top attraction, the sight that sets the country apart from everywhere else on the planet.

Yes, I’m talking about Halong Bay.

This huge emerald-water bay is peppered with thousands of limestone crags topped in fluffy greenery.

Whether you’re fending its waters on a cruise, or on the traditional Vietnamese sampan, this unspoiled corner of the world will make your jaws drop in wonder.

Admire the lives of local fishermen whose homes are in the thousands of floats that dot the bay, or delve into the caves that are hidden away inside the limestone pillars.

If you want to experience the bay, but not the crowds, head to nearby Lan Ha Bay.

Tucked away in the Northwest corner of the country, right on the border with China, is a largely untouched area of Vietnam which has recently been discovered by the most intrepid tourists.

This is Ha Giang, the trekking paradise of Vietnam. Familiar with the postcard-perfect rice terraces of Sapa?

You will find them in Ha Giang, amongst a barren and dramatic green landscape of mountains that drop into unseen valleys and gorges hundreds of meters below.

Looking for affordable place to stay in Ha Giang? Visit booking.com for best deals.

The secluded hills are home to a variety of ethnic minorities, who you can observe in their colourful woven dresses as they carry timber-wood on the sides of the winding roads.

Keep In Mind – Both Indonesia and Vietnam are excellent options for nature lovers. They present a similar climate, meaning rainforests are a soft cloak on large part of the regions.

If both countries are largely rural outside the main urban areas, Indonesia is less densely populated in some parts, and is home to more wildlife.

Due to Indonesia’s bigger size and the fact that tourism is more developed, it has more options in terms of activities, especially scuba diving and snorkelling.

For the avid hikers, Vietnam has more dramatic mountain ranges in the north than any Indonesian volcano.

Vietnam is a more recent tourist destination, meaning that it is not as easy to explore outside the main hubs, but this may make it the most rewarding for the committed travellers.

At the same time, the fact that Vietnam is less spread-out means it requires less time to explore compared to Indonesia.

Indonesia Hotspots & Activities

Where to kick off, if not with one of the most pristine cluster of islands in Indonesia?

Behold the home of the largest lizard on Earth, the Komodo Dragon, an animal that you will find here and ehm – nowhere else!

Scale your way up dormant volcanoes suffused in greenery, or stretch your limbs out in one of the seven pink-sand beaches in the world.

If you love your scuba diving or snorkelling, this is just about the best place on Earth for you to be.

Looking for affordable place to stay near Komodo? Visit booking.com for best deals.

Wade through crystal-clear waters and vivid coral reefs strewn with dazzling marine life.

This island is a pristine medley of intricate rainforest packed with exotic fauna and… topped by active volcanoes!

Yes, all of that, and at what scale . Sumatra is the fifth largest island in the world, bringing it roughly to the size of Sweden.

Guess what? There’s a lot to see.

To make things even better, Sumatra is home to an intricate variety of ethnic groups scattered in rural locations around the island.

From surfing to spotting tigers and rhinos, there is simply so much to do.

You could spend months visiting something new everyday, but what you can’t fail to see is misty Danau Toba, one of the highest and deepest lakes in the world.

Beach Life – Vietnam vs Indonesia

Vietnam beach life, con dao islands.

This tiny cluster of islands far off the mainland are one of the untouched wonders of Vietnam.

Con Dao is exactly what you would imagine for a tropical island. Hills shrouded in fluffy tropical vegetation ease off to lonely beaches of sugary white sand lapped by turquoise waters.

Grab a traditional banh mi sandwich at the local market and drive your scooter to secluded coves or endless beaches. It will just be you, the trees, the sand, and the lapping waters.

Due to scarce development as a tourist attraction, there aren’t infinite options – but fear not, there is something for everyone.

Stretch out on a deck chair in the private beach of the luxurious Six Senses Resort, or book an Air-Bnb in sleepy Con Son and rent a scooter to go and explore.

The clear waters offer some of the best snorkelling in Vietnam, and the rainy season is the best time to go surfing!

This medium-sized island has rapidly evolved from sleepy tropical island to major tourist destination.

In Recent Years – The white-sand beaches have attracted large crowds of sun-seeking Western tourists. It is clear what the appeal of this island is, but the flow of tourists has at times brought it to excessive development and occasionally littered waters.

Nevertheless, this island is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City, making it an ideal retreat for tourists on a tighter schedule who still want to get their tan on.

There is accommodation for all budgets, from the luxury resorts lining Long Beach, to sleepy homestays in town and along the lesser-developed east shore.

Indonesia Beach Life

Here it is, the place you’ve always heard of, the one where Julia Roberts fell in love in Eat Pray Love.

But of course, I’m talking of the world’s most famous paradise on Earth – Bali!

This renowned tourist destination is not only a place, it’s an emblem of the tropical state of mind.

Looking for affordable place to stay in Bali? Visit booking.com for best deals.

Bali has it all, from wild surf coasts to pulsating hubs of beach-side nightlife, awe-inspiring hillside temples and dramatic volcanoes, top of the notch resorts to family-friendly hotels – you name it!

Wade past processions of colourfully-dressed locals in Ubud, or lose yourself in serene rice fields in west Bali.

Recommended reading about the Annual Bali Spirit Festival in Ubud

Catch a wave in Kerobokan or trek to the top of Gunung Agung, the centre of the island’s spirituality.

Whoever you are, and whatever you are looking for, Bali has something for you.

Eager for a Bali-style holiday, but wary of the crowds?

Fear not, Indonesia has something for you! Jump into Lombok, a surfer’s paradise turned off-chart tourist destination.

Stretch out on pristine coves that bring to mind what Bali must have looked like a decade ago.

Looking for affordable place to stay in Lombok? Visit booking.com for best deals.

Hunt past the most famous beaches to find truly secluded spots. Immerse in the placid waters of Tanjung Aan beach, or climb to the top of the jungle-clad slopes of Gunung Rinjani for awe-inspiring vistas over the whole island.

Lombok is less developed than Bali, but it has been growing as a tourist destination in recent years, meaning you can find accommodation and food options for all price ranges – from budget to mind-blowing luxury.

Don’t think that the island has no share of party vibe.

Head over to Kuta or Senggigi, or take a boat to the offshore party haven Gili Trawangan.

Vietnam and Indonesia boast an incredible share of paradisiacal beaches.

Indonesia has more shoreline, meaning more opportunities. That takes absolutely nothing away from Vietnam’s seaside wonders.

For one, Indonesia is more developed as a tourist destination, so it might be slightly more difficult to get out of yer old tourist traps.

But Vietnam?

It takes no more than a couple steps out of the tourist hubs, and you have the place to yourself.

Even if you’re not in Con Dao, head over to the east coast for miles upon miles of idyllic empty beaches with no ugly resorts in sight. Or take a boat out of Da Nang to the dreamy Cham Islands.

Lan Ha Bay itself is moments from busy Halong Bay, but is a largely untouched paradise full of secluded coves waiting to be explored.

Cultural Hotspots Vietnam vs Indonesia

Vietnam cultural hotspots.

Stand back and gape at the complexities of one of the oldest cultures in South East Asia, influenced by their neighbours the Chinese, but also home to the powerful kingdom of Champa, which held control over the region for no less than a millennium.

Head over to the rural mountains in the North to meet the ethnic minorities of the Hmong or Tay.

Spend the night in a traditional stilted home and learn their customs, which have scarcely changed in the last hundred years. But the beating cultural heart of the country lies in the picturesque town of Hoi An.

Previously named Faifo, Hoi An was once a fundamental port along the Silk Road.

For Over 500 Years – Merchants from countries such as Japan, China, Portugal and France settled in the affluent town. The result? A unique blend of culture, tradition and cuisine that will captivate you from the second you step into its dreamy streets.

Stroll along the lazy river, or under the colourful lanterns strung across the mustard-yellow merchant homes.

Breathe in the atmosphere of a city that has scarcely changed from its look of centuries past.

From Hoi An, catch a xe om to watch the sunrise at May Son, the country’s biggest Cham ruins.

Looking for affordable place to stay in Hoi an? Visit booking.com for best deals.

Immersed in deep vegetation, this cluster of stone temples carved with mystical dancing statues is for all you Tomb Raider enthusiasts.

Indonesia Cultural Hotspots

Peppered with temples all over its jungle-shrouded hills, Indonesia is a cultural tourist’s wonderland.

Kingdoms have risen and fallen in these lands from the start of the eighth century up to the Dutch colonization 200 years ago, meaning there’s centuries of wondrous ruins to delve into.

Each island offers its share of ethnic minorities and cultural hotspots, but Java is something of a hub, for it is home to the self-governing city of Yogyakarta.

A city of contrasts, where tradition fuses with modernity to create Indonesia’s cultural epicentre.

Here, a sultan still rules in his kraton – a walled city palace from the 18 th century – but you will also find fast food chains and shopping malls… after all, it is a sprawling city of more than 3 million people!

Delve into colourful batik stores, or try your hand at crafting vases at Karanganyar pottery village.

Watch the sunrise amongst hundreds of carved Buddha statues in one of the largest temple complexes in South East Asia. And… what about the sunset?

Looking for affordable place to stay in Yogyakarta? Visit booking.com for best deals.

Don’t worry, Yogyakarta’s got it covered.

Head over to Prambanan, an intricately-decorated temple dedicated to the goddess Shiva, with the highest building reaching up to 45 metres in height!

Food – Vietnam vs Indonesia

Vietnam top 3 foods to sample.

An ancient saying goes that you should judge a culture by its food. Well, if this is the case, Vietnam’s culture gets five stars.

Get ready to be dazzled by the variety of Vietnamese cuisine, full of vibrant and fresh flavours to discover.

The diverse landscape, together with the influences of a wide range of cultures over the years, has brought various strata of complexity to this intriguing cuisine.

I am going to limit myself to citing the most famous dishes, but rest assured that there is so much more!

Any mention of Vietnamese cuisine, and this iconic noodle soup springs to mind.

From huge steaming vats on street stalls to delicate platters in upscale restaurants, pho is ubiquitous in Vietnam.

This soup can be either had with chicken ( pho ga ) or with beef ( pho bo ).

Ask a fellow diner for advice on the amounts of fresh herbs and coriander to add to the dish once it is brought to your table, and enjoy.

I can assure you, your taste buds will be begging you pho more!

Alright, we get it, everybody has been talking to you about pho.

But what about the exclusive dish, the Hanoi speciality you’ve never heard of?

Get acquainted with bun cha, a BBQ pork noodle soup that will set your taste buds dancing with flavour.

Experience pure satisfaction with this burst of fresh flavour.

Banh xeo is an enormous pancake packed with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts.

Even Better – Vietnamese love building their food at the table: slice off a portion of it, wrap it in rice paper, dunk it in the delicious Nuoc mam fish sauce and… get ready for an explosive medley of taste.

Indonesia Top 3 Foods to sample

Similar to the Vietnamese, Indonesian cuisine reflects the fact that the country has been a hub for traders coming to and from the Indies – for centuries!

Prepare yourself for a mad dose of chilli and spices, and an abundance of that rice that grows in paddies all around the country.

This tangy condiment will see you addicted in no time.

It is a chilli-based sauce with added shrimp paste, lime juice, sugar and salt – and you can find it everywhere!

The Indonesians aren’t crazy, so there must be a reason why they accompany it to every dish. It’s nothing short on delicious!

For the veteran lovers, there are even dedicated restaurants that offer everything from sambal with durian, to sambal with mushroom and young mango.

Let’s go with the one with the presidential approval!

That’s right, none other than President Obama remembered this dish as his favourite from a trip to Jakarta.

So head over to the first kaki lama pushcart and grab your fill of these delicious chicken, pork and beef meatballs.

I promise, you just won’t have enough of them!

The secret to tender meat?

Cook it on a high flame, the elders say. These succulent meat skewers are cooked up on coals so hot they need fans to get the smoke away!

You can have them made of anything from chicken to goat and rabbit – each piece of meat is delicately marinated in turmeric and – wait for it – peanut sauce!

Untold delights are reserved to those who try this dish.

Vietnam and Indonesia both have a very rich culinary tradition, involving herbs and spices and an abundant dose of rice.

Vietnam may get the higher rating here, purely because of the unique variety of palate-entrancing dishes they propose.

It would be a challenge to try them all in one holiday! Indonesia has its fair share of tasty dishes, but it must be said the cuisine is quite similar to Malay and other Asian Muslim food.

Travel Budget Vietnam vs Indonesia

You’ll know it by now, both of these countries are a budget traveller’s heaven.

But which one is the cheapest?

Why, it’s good old Vietnam!

There’s simply nothing that can beat food and accommodation prices over there.

You can easily spend little more than 3 euros for dinner in a nice restaurant and I’m not even going to get started about the street food prices!

Homestays can be booked for less than 10 euros for a double room.

Indonesia is slightly more saturated tourism-wise, meaning prices have taken a little cruise up – especially in the hubs of Bali, Lombok and the islands.

And if you’re there for the parties, keep in mind that there is a high import tax rate on alcohol, so you might have to go easy on those mojitos!

Apart from that, rest assured, Indonesia can offer you a comfortable budget holiday.

So here we are.

Two awe-inspiring tropical countries packed with jungle, beaches, culture, entertainment, succulent food… need I say more?

Indonesia and Vietnam are two ideal destinations for your exotic retreat.

If Vietnam is slightly cheaper, both countries are budget-friendly, and the locals couldn’t be more welcoming.

Recommended Reading – Learn some words of the Language of Bali Indonesia.

Indonesia is a larger, spread-out country of islands scattered between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

With its incredible variety of awe-inspiring temples, it might have more cultural wonders to offer.

Vietnam is more compact, easier to travel in less time, especially if you book one of the tour guides.

If you choose to plan your own journey, jump on a motorbike and let’s go!

It has never been easier to get out of the tourist track and experience the true flavour of this largely rural country.

So get there before mass tourism starts wearing its shine!

So, Vietnam vs Indonesia?

Both countries provide memorable experiences.

Indonesia might require more time to explore, Vietnam is a dense pocket of magic to immerse yourself in.

Two, three weeks… you name it.

Pack a bag, catch the next flight and…

…who’s that person, catching the best foamy breaks in front of a lonely beach fringed with palm trees?

It might well be you!

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Bali vs. Thailand: Which Is a Better Vacation Spot for You?

See recent posts by Margot Bigg

Blessed with warm weather, beautiful scenery, great cuisine, and reasonable prices, Bali and Thailand are both fantastic destinations to immerse yourself in local culture, eat, swim, drink, and take a load off. That being said, there are some major differences between the two, particularly when it comes to beaches, food, nightlife, and culture (not to mention the fact that one is a country and the other is an island -- albeit one with a distinct culture from its other Indonesian neighbors). If you're trying to decide between Bali and Thailand for your next southeast Asian adventure, this comparison between the two destinations should help you narrow things down.

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Beaches in Bali and Thailand

Rayavadee Resort in Railay Beach, Thailand

Bali: If you like surfing and are good at it, you’ll find some of the world’s finest waves in Bali. Visitors can expect plenty of wide, sandy beaches, and although they aren’t always the cleanest, the island has been making concerted efforts to reduce waste; there’s even a ban on single-use plastic. However, strong currents and undertows can make swimming a daunting proposition here. That being said, if you’re after calm waters, some of the beaches on the islets of Lembongan and Penida off Bali’s southeast coast are ideal for swimming. 

Thailand: If you like swimming and sunbathing, a Thai beach might be a better match, particularly one on the Andaman Sea side of the country. Thailand’s beaches tend to have white sand and clear, warm waters that take on a turquoise glow when viewed from the shore. The only real drawback is that these beaches are narrower than their Balinese counterparts.

Getting to Bali and Thailand

Thailand: If you’re coming from North America or Europe (or really anywhere outside of Asia), getting to both Thailand and Bali is a major commitment that requires at least one long flight, which can result in lots of jet lag. At first glance, Thailand is the easier destination to reach. There are considerably more flights operating through Bangkok’s two international airports, but there’s a catch. While getting onto Thai soil is generally easier, if you’re after an island vacation, you’ll likely have to take a second domestic flight to one of the hubs in the southern part of the country (such as Hat Yai or Krabi), followed by a taxi or bus ride to the local port, followed by a boat ride to your island of choice. You may even have to switch airports in Bangkok to do so (most international flights to Bangkok arrive in the larger Suvarnabhumi Airport, while many of the budget flights operate from the city’s older Don Mueang International Airport). 

Bali: If you’re flying to Bali, you simply land in Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar, hop in a taxi, and head to your destination. However, flights to Bali usually require more layovers (unless you’re coming from Australia) and there aren’t as many options, so it can be the more expensive proposition. 

Food in Bali and Thailand

Street Food in Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand: Most overseas visitors are going to be more familiar with Thai food, but note that the dishes here are often considerably spicier than what you’re used to back home. The portions also tend to be smaller, but heavy eaters will get the chance to try different dishes, many of which aren’t popular outside of Thailand. You’ll also find plenty of international food, particularly in Bangkok and other major tourist destinations. 

Bali: Balinese food tends to be less spicy and is often sweeter, due to the heavy use of coconut and peanuts. Vegetarians and vegans will also find more options in Bali, as not everything has fish sauce and tempeh (Indonesian fermented soybean patties often used as a meat substitute) is widely available. 

Local Culture and Activities in Bali and Thailand

Pura Tirta Empul, Bali

Thailand:  Thailand is home to numerous beautiful Buddhist temples, locally known as wats. While the northern part of the country (away from the beaches) is considered Thailand’s cultural hub, there are plenty of temples all throughout the south. Other popular activities include cooking classes, rock climbing (particularly in the Railay Beach area), trekking (especially in northern Thailand), and water sports (Thailand is a great place to get PADI certified).

Bali: Bali is a predominantly Hindu island, and worship is part of the daily life here (you’ll notice small offerings of palm fronds made in front of almost every store and home on the island). There are beautiful stone-carved temples everywhere, and the local arts and culture scene thrives. Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to check out traditional gamelan orchestra recitals, dance performances, and even shadow puppet shows. Many people come to Bali to study yoga; the island is also a great place to learn applied arts, such as silversmithing. While surfing is the main draw at the beaches here, visitors can try out everything from whitewater rafting on the Ayung River to paragliding. 

Nightlife in Bali and Thailand

Nightlife in Seminyak, Bali

Thailand: Nightlife in Thailand is a big deal. While Bangkok reigns supreme with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues, even the islands offer a fair bit for those who want to party it up. It’s not uncommon to see cocktails sold in giant buckets (with multiple straws), and the Full Moon Party is legendary on the backpacker circuit. 

Bali: Nightlife in Bali is centered around traveler hubs like Kuta and Seminyak, with plenty of bars, DJ nights, and even beachfront parties (mostly in hotels). You won’t find many renegade raves here, but you will find clubs that stay open all night long. And if you are trying to avoid nightlife, simply stay in artsy Ubud, where most venues are closed by midnight. 

Lesbian and Gay Travel in Bali and Thailand

Silom District in Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand: Generally speaking, mainland southeast Asia is fairly tolerant of LGBTQ+ travelers, and the capitals of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam all have gay scenes that range from mild to wild. Thailand takes the cake, though, as it’s not just tolerant of LGBTQ+ travelers, but openly courts them. That’s especially true in Bangkok, where Silom Soi 2 and Silom Soi 4 — in the buzzing Silom district — are home to dozens of gay bars for all types, ranging from raunchy spots with live sex shows to outdoor beer bars and massive nightclubs like DJ Station. Likewise, the Thai islands are welcoming of gay and lesbian travelers, and you’re unlikely to encounter problems. LGBTQ+ lodging options are also available around the country, in cities like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket. 

Bali: While Indonesia is becoming more and more conservative, and certain parts of the country are bound by extremist Sharia law, Bali is far more tolerant. Generally, it’s a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers where you’ll likely encounter zero hostility. Like Thailand, you’ll find guesthouses and hotels that cater exclusively to this clientele, and there’s even a bit of nightlife for the queer crowd (albeit, mostly gay men). That action takes place in Seminyak, along Jalan Camplung Tanduk. You won’t find the same diversity of nightlife as you would in Bangkok, but these small clubs can get rowdy. Keep in mind that if you are traveling onward in Indonesia, you should exercise more caution, as the neighboring islands are generally less tolerant of the LGBTQ+ population. In fact, in some parts of the country, gay and lesbian travel can be dangerous. 

You’ll Also Like:

• Where to Go in Thailand: A Complete Guide to the Most Popular Destinations
• 10 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in Bali
• Where to Go in Bali: Top Destinations for Every Type of Traveler

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