Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Vietnam has emerged as the top choice for travellers seeking a tropical beach holiday, eclipsing Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations in a recent survey by the Bangkok Post.

 

According to the survey, which polled readers online between 30th July and 12th August, 26.3% of respondents opted for Vietnam as their preferred beach holiday spot. This puts Vietnam ahead of the Philippines (18.9%), Indonesia (18.3%), Malaysia (12.7%), Cambodia (12.7%), and Singapore (11.1%).

 

The findings reveal broader concerns about Thailand's standing in the tourism industry. Of particular note, more than 56% of participants indicated that reports of tourist scams and unfair treatment had dampened their enthusiasm for visiting Thailand. Meanwhile, 28% dismissed these reports, while 16% maintained a neutral position.

 

Infrastructure issues also surfaced as a significant deterrent, with 59% of respondents perceiving Thailand's roads, public transport, and essential services as lacking, thereby diminishing the country's allure.

 

Interestingly, the decriminalisation of cannabis in Thailand appears to have had little influence on tourism, according to over half of those surveyed. This suggests that other factors may be more crucial in shaping traveller preferences.

 

The survey further indicates a trend of tourists gravitating towards other nearby destinations instead of Thailand, with nearly 70% of respondents recognising this shift. It points to an urgent need for Thailand to address these challenges if it wishes to reclaim its status as a leading destination.

 

Respondents highlighted the areas where Thailand should focus its efforts. Safety and law enforcement emerged as the top priorities for improvement (39.6%), followed by enhancements in transport and infrastructure (23.6%). Marketing campaigns (22.9%) and the development of unique attractions (13.9%) were also cited as important focal points.

 

Despite these challenges, perceptions of Thailand remain positive in certain respects. The kingdom is still seen as a destination rich in culture, cuisine, and warm hospitality by 46.3% of respondents. Additionally, 26.1% value Thailand for its budget-friendly offerings, while 27.6% appreciate its blend of tradition and modernity.

 

Beyond beaches and culinary delights, Thailand's nightlife was rated as the most attractive feature by 22.9% of respondents. This was followed by historical landmarks (17.8%), natural scenery (15.9%), and arts and culture (12.4%).

 

For those keen to share their opinions or engage further, the Bangkok Post invites readers to participate in its ongoing online polls. Visit their website and contribute to shaping the conversation around Southeast Asian tourism.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-29

 

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Vietnam has emerged as the top choice for travellers seeking a tropical beach holiday, eclipsing Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations in a recent survey by the Bangkok Post.

Hardly surprising, Thailands crown is slipping for many reasons.

Nice beaches are not enough to lure tourists, nowadays, tourists want a lot more than just a nice beach.

Wait till tomorrow or Monday when the latest announcements come out from TAT to counter this Poll.

BS, while Vietnam has many advantages over Thailand, it's not in the beach compartment. Philippines, definitely in first place, followed by Indonesia, and then Thailand and Malaysia. 

Vietnam took over as the second biggest rice exporter from Thailand because of the prices..the teflon thai baht loosing markeds worldwide.But they dont do nothing about it.Just continue their policy make the thai baht ridicilus high.

WRT police, Thailand should look at scooter rentals in Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai.  In CM the police station themselves around Old Town specifically looking for rental scooters (with stickers on the bikes) and pull them over to check for Int. DL.  Tourists don't like to be targeted.
Why aren't scooter rental shops ensuring tourists have the proper license before renting the scooters?

Why aren't scooter rental shops telling the tourists about helmet laws?

Why aren't scooter rental shops telling tourists about local laws?

In Phuket you aren't allowed to ride through underpasses.  In BKK you aren't allowed to drive on fly-overs.

In CM these aren't an issue.

 

Police tell the tourists with infractions to walk to the local police station and pay the fine.

 

Sure, some tourists will break the rules whether they are told at the rental shop.  Then it's in their hands.

All bs

First paragraph. 

 

Vietnam 26.3%   ...

Philippines (18.9%), Indonesia (18.3%), Malaysia (12.7%), Cambodia (12.7%), and Singapore (11.1%).   

 

So Thailand was lower than 11.1%,  or Intentional missed data on Thailand ? 

As in many cases,   this article from "Bangkok Post"  had been biased.... yes biased against Thailand.