Thailand’s Losing Its Edge — Is Vietnam the Next Real Deal?

[Scouse123]

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I’ve been seeing more and more posts on YouTube and the web saying “Thailand is finished,” and while that might be a bit extreme, I get where people are coming from. Something’s changed.

 

Many long-time visitors and retirees are growing increasingly frustrated — and not just because prices are rising (which they are). They are rising everywhere worldwide.

 

Dual pricing is more blatant than ever. Not just in parks and temples, but also in taxis, and even in everyday items — you get quoted one price, while the Thai person behind you receives another.

 

Add to that the visa mess — rules changing all the time, inconsistent enforcement, and immigration officers who seem to go by how they feel that day — and it’s no wonder people are getting frustrated.

 

Even ASEAN NOW itself had multiple threads recently where this came up again and again.

 

What’s worse is the shift in attitude. Foreigners used to feel genuinely welcome. Now it often feels like you’re just a wallet with legs. That has been going on for years, but it's become more blatant, and they don't seem to care.

 

Scams are more common, there's more aggression in nightlife areas, and in certain parts of the country, Customer service is a forgotten word.

 

It’s just full-on hustle 24/7. For people who aren’t here for the bar scene or don’t want sex tourism shoved in their face, it’s becoming less appealing. I found it impossible to have a quiet beer in a bar in Nana Plaza, 

 

That said, I think many people rushing to Cambodia are doing so because they’re priced out, not because it’s better.

 

Outside of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, the infrastructure is still weak, and Sihanoukville is a complete disaster thanks to failed Chinese casino projects.

 

Cambodia is cheaper and visa-friendly, but it’s not a real alternative to Thailand for most people. It simply lacks appeal. After three or four days, I'm eager to get back home to Thailand.

 

Vietnam, on the other hand, is playing its cards right and getting its act together.

 

Great beaches, solid infrastructure, a growing expat scene, and they’re working on long-stay visa options — possibly even a 10-year visa for foreigners.

 

It’s cleaner, less intrusive, and doesn’t have the same "walking ATM" vibe. For people without roots in Thailand (such as family or business), Vietnam is becoming increasingly attractive.

 

I won't leave Thailand because of my partner, and I have roots here. However, I will live quietly, pay my living expenses, and probably curb my previous penchant for changing cars every three years, etc. I will probably have a spending binge when I go to Vietnam or Cambodia, where I feel I get better value for money.

 

Thailand’s still got a lot going for it, no doubt. But it’s definitely at a tipping point.

 

If they don’t sort out the immigration headaches, stop gouging tourists and policy flip-flopping, and bring back some of the old warmth, more and more people will quietly (or loudly) move on.

[BritManToo]

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

Dual pricing is more blatant than ever. Not just in parks and temples, but also in taxis, and even in everyday items — you get quoted one price, while the Thai person behind you receives another.

Never buy anything that doesn't have a price sticker.

As for Vietnam, still no long term visa, better off in Cambodia or the Philippines.

It's great for 45 days with waiver on entry for Brits though.

 

If I were a nomad, I'd do 60 in Thailand, 45 in Vietnam, 90 in Malaysia, and 30 in Philippines, no visa required, then repeat as needed.

[henryford1958]

Vietnam would be the best option but with no retirement visa it's a non starter. 

[save the frogs]

12 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

It’s cleaner, less intrusive, and doesn’t have the same "walking ATM" vibe.

 

Havent been to Vietnam yet.

But that could be because it doesn't rely on tourism as much as Thailand.

It has a lot of manufacturing. Vietnam's economy seems more diverse. 

 

[save the frogs]

12 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

Dual pricing is more blatant than ever. Not just in parks and temples, but also in taxis, and even in everyday items — you get quoted one price, while the Thai person behind you receives another.

 

Who the hell goes to temples?

Use Bolt. Price is set. 

Haven't experienced dual pricing, but neither do I go to parks or temples. 

I walk into a restaurant, the price is on the menu, and that's what I get charged. 

 

Thailand is not that cheap. If Vietnam is 20% cheaper, it might be worth it. 

 

[1happykamper]

Viet people are much more friendly... Curious and warm. Thai are increasingly.. angry and have lost their smile. 

 

Thailand hasn't even tried to keep up on the service front... prices are higher and poor service and bad attitude is becoming the current trend. 

 

Thai show very little gratitude. I assumed after covid that they would be kinder and more grateful. Fk me I was so wrong 555

 

Thailand is still good value but I want more than a cheap plate of food served user a tin roof. In Da Nang that similar plate of food is served in a real building with nice decor and comfy seats... Close to the beach.. For the same price! Served by locals who are fun and engaging! I feel welcome in Da Nang. 

[KhunBENQ]

Decided today:

tax rise on alcohol and cigarettes from 65% to 90%. Introduced in steps.

Will make some enthusiasts think again 😄

 

https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/vietnam-parliament-approves-hiking-tax-alcoholic-drinks-90-by-2031-2025-06-14/