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

[Scouse123]

---

 

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/

[Scouse123]

8 hours ago, KhunBENQ said:

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/

 

Even with these rises implemented they will still be cheaper than Thailand.

[DonniePeverley]

I wonder why Bendiorm Brits, draft dodging Russians, racist Aussies, and cheap Indians all behave in Vietnam ? 

 

You dare not mess with the police there. 

[hotandsticky]

20 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

---

 

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.

 

A very well thought out, and presented, post.

 

I can't argue with anything in the post because that is also my experience of extensive travel in the countries mentioned - and I mean 40+ visits to Cambodia and 10+ to Vietnam. I am hoping that I get bored with Phu Quoc before they screw that up.

 

I think Vietnam has  a more diverse range of locations than Thailand and whilst the 'welcome' is as described, I don't think it is any more friendly than Thailand was say, 20 years ago. Another place where there are too many Russians for my liking.

 

Whilst I doubt that I shall ever leave Thailand, Vietnam was pencilled in for a 3 month p.a. home if the restatement of Thai tax policies had gone pear-shaped.

[hotandsticky]

10 minutes ago, DonniePeverley said:

I wonder why Bendiorm Brits, draft dodging Russians, racist Aussies, and cheap Indians all behave in Vietnam ? 

 

You dare not mess with the police there. 

 

 

You didn't mention the Yanks.......why limit your racism to but a few.

 

Surely, fear of the police has no borders.

[DonniePeverley]

7 hours ago, hotandsticky said:

 

 

You didn't mention the Yanks.......why limit your racism to but a few.

 

Surely, fear of the police has no borders.

 

 

When you have hardcore policing and no messing around - like you see in Dubai (try steal something there and the consequences are horrid), Singapore, Vietnam, China ... you will find even the most hardcore of idiot tourist will behave. 

 

You have soft policing in Thailand (we cannot upset tourist) which invariably leads to more crime. 

 

The safety aspect of Vietnam is why many (Chinese at least) are heading there. Along with the effects it's a new destination, improving infustruscture, and it has a history that is steeped in modern culture. 

[factual monk]

60% of Thai tourism is evolved around 🐈... 

[factual monk]

Vn offers plenty more options than Thailand... I been there many time in past 6 years... very clean beaches especially Nha trang, Hoi An, Danang, Tuy Hoa, Quy Nhon... Good for swimming, cheaper rentals for apartments, easy 3 month evsia, food is average,  coffee is top notch, people are good in both countries, 

I have been a Thailand lover till now but due to cost factor and Visa durations and ease of getting apartment on hire in Vn... from 2026 onwards I will be in Vn 

[JensenZ]

On 6/16/2025 at 8:58 AM, 1happykamper said:

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. 

Could it be you've been in Thailand too long and you've lost your smile?

 

I don't go around smiling at people, so I don't care if other people are smiling or not; however, I'm living outside of the tourist area at the moment, and people are friendly enough. I only see a tourist or foreigner a few times a week. The locals smile quite a bit.

[JensenZ]

On 6/16/2025 at 7:37 AM, save the frogs said:

 

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. 

 

I'd never been to parks before, but last week I visited Pattaya Park. It cost 500 for me and 300 each for my 4 Thai guests to ride in the cable car. You can get the Thai price if you present a Thai driver's licence.

 

At the Sanctuary of Truth, the Thai people were charged the same as foreigners - 500 baht.

 

I think expats and tourists are looking at this the wrong way around. The locals should get a discount when visiting tourist attractions, as they do in many international tourist locations. 

 

 

[J Branche]

People are done with the Currency Manipulation that Thailand is implementing.  Economy not doing well but surprise USD is down 11.6% against the Baht but USD is up 2.6% against the Vietnamese currency.

 

Others Year over Year

Yuan (China) down 10.6%

Pound down approx 6%

Cambodian Riel down 9.5%

Vietnamese currency down 14.23%

Australian Dollar down 12.72%

 

I would immediately place Thailand on the list of Countries Manipulating Currency and stop all but essential trade until it is corrected.

[Duvidl]

I like Vietnam, but don't like visa runs. In Vietnam I would have to do a visa run every 90 days. In Thailand, with retirement visa extensions, I've never done a visa run in 12 years. If Vietnam had a long term visa, I would consider it. They talk about it, but nothing yet.

[Bannoi]

Go where the love is.

[ronnie50]

I really like Vietnam, especially central area (Da Nang). Vietnam is generally a much better bargain for most things, though not so sure about long term accommodation. You'd need to know what you're doing to go that route - but many have managed it. Better beer that's for sure, if beer is your thing. A monthly trip to Hanoi or HCMC would get you anything you can't get in Da Nang (better food and wine selection, etc., to bring back to Da Nang apartment). And while the girly stuff isn't in your face, it's certainly there if you want that. Great beaches too

[ChrisKC]

I sympathise with your feelings but I have no such feelings. I think some of the odds in my favour are that I don't live in Bangkok, Phuket or Pattaya!

 

Cost of living has increased but not out of my range; as you say, inflation is in all countries.

 

The number of times I am subjected to dual pricing is not enough for me to see at as a general problem!

 

The "Thai Smile" exists for me wherever I go!!  Yesterday, in a large local store, I was in a queue at the cash desk where the customer in front of me was messing about on her phone. The Cashier was getting frustrated. When the Customer left, she cashed up my stuff and attempted to tell me in English the cost. I know I had bought about B600 worth but I said as a question, "Neung ruy ha sip baht". The smile I got was beautiful! I don't claim it made her day, but It helped in a moment of her irritation! I perform this silly act often at the till. It really is a boring job they have!

 

Is the grass greener in Vietnam? Or anywhere else for that matter! 

 

 

 

 

[LittleBear57]

Not if you've been looking at the weather these past weeks.

[Peter Crow]

For now my holidays [my largest expense] have moved to Vietnam and other neighbouring countries. We go to Bangkok when we need to see a Doctor, but that may well move elsewhere too. (Please don't say India)

[peter zwart]

On 6/16/2025 at 8:58 AM, 1happykamper said:

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. 

I largely agree with you. In particular, the incredibly poor customer service is a major irritation for me. The question, however, is: what is causing this change in behavior? Is it the arrival of pumped-up muscleheads from the West who need to act out their inferiority complexes on a daily basis and don’t know how to behave? Is it the TAT that first targeted the Chinese and now the Indians and Arabs? Or have the Thais been spoiled by the easy money of recent years? What I do know is that Thailand needs to get its act together quickly, or it will be left with nothing but bottom-tier tourism.

[1happykamper]

26 minutes ago, peter zwart said:

Or have the Thais been spoiled by the easy money

This! We know that this are terrible at managing their money... and I think they feel the gravy train will just go on and on. They should seriously consider some major changes, especially a shift in attitude. In the past when things get tough they just increase prices! 

 

Very little effort has been put out on their part. Here in Hua hin.. Most Thai girls STILL scream out "massage" after standing there for 10 years! It's annoying. I wish one day a waitress would enquire "is everything OK" about 5 minutes after they serve my meal. Once in 10 years that's happened. 

 

Thailand thinks it's the greatest country on the planet and us expats and tourists should be grateful for what we receive.