The best countries in Southeast Asia to live in: my experience. Traveling to Indonesia from Vietnam Vietnam or Indonesia

Spending the New Year in Vietnam is a great idea for those who do not like routine and traditional New Year celebrations in their homeland. Every year, year after year, the same thing is repeated: Olivier, the Christmas tree, the president’s speech on TV. Isn't it time to diversify the New Year holidays and try to spend them in something new: unusual and exotic?
If you dare to try this experiment, the best place to conduct it will be Vietnam. Sun and warm sea instead of frost and snowdrifts, fresh seafood instead of mayonnaise salads, friendly Vietnamese instead of gloomy compatriots - you can enjoy all this when going on vacation in Vietnam.

To all the advantages that can be found in a holiday in this wonderful country, we can add one more important one - a favorable location in the Southeast part of Asia. While in Vietnam on your vacation, you can inexpensively fly to nearby countries in this part of the world and spend a couple of unforgettable days there.

One such state is Indonesia. A very interesting, unique and mysterious corner of the earth. To begin with, this is an island state, which consists of more than 17,000 islands, 6,000 of which are inhabited. The largest are: Java, Kalimantan, New Guinea, Sumatra, Sulawesi. Indonesia is a densely populated country and the largest in its region. It ranks fourth in the world in terms of population.

The climate of Indonesia is determined by the climatic zones in which it is located: equatorial and subequatorial. Therefore, it is always warm here and there is practically no seasonal difference in temperature. The average annual temperature is about 26ºС. Air humidity is very high - 80%. Therefore, it is advisable for people with health problems to rest here for a short period. The ideal option in this case is a holiday in Vietnam with a short visit to Indonesia.

You can fly to Indonesia from Vietnam on Ho Chi Minh City - Soekarno-Hatta and Hanoi - Soekarno-Hatta flights. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the largest in Indonesia and the main one in the capital, Jakarta.

Modern Jakarta deserves admiration! Once you have been there, you will never be able to forget it. This is a dynamic metropolis that combines chic streets with modern high-rise buildings, a historical part of the city and slums on the outskirts. Tourists are not recommended to go to the slums, but wandering through the old streets is very possible. In the Old Town area there is the port of Sunda Kelapa, which has been known since the 12th century. It is in the port that the life of the city is in full swing - it was so in the 12th century, and it is so now. Ships arrive at the port around the clock, dark-skinned Indonesians unload cargo, and the song of the mula (the main religion is Muslim) can be heard from nearby mosques. Also in this area you can find excellent markets that sell everything from fruit to used equipment.

Which is better: Vietnam or Bali? Comparison of infrastructure and recreation arises when choosing a trip, which is important when traveling with children. To avoid the unpleasant impression “It’s good where we are not”, it is useful to make a full analysis of the conditions for a future vacation in advance. And at the same time estimate the average amount of finance needed for the trip.

Both offers are interesting and attractive for relaxing alone, in the company of friends, with children. You can find information, large travel reports, but among them there is no clear advice on where to go. Everything is determined by plans for the upcoming vacation. The article discusses the option of traveling from May to October for a relaxing beach holiday at the best resorts in the countries.

The road to the vacation spot

Let's compare routes and travel conveniences.

Travel to Vietnam

Before traveling, please remember that you do not need a visa for a 15-day stay. Flight to Vietnam is considered easy. Having departed from Moscow, after 10 hours the plane will land in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and the seaside resort of Nha Trang. There are no direct flights from the cities of Ukraine and Minsk. You can change trains in Moscow and the Emirates. Budget flight options can be found in advance using the Aviasales service (the same as when flying to Bali). You can come to the country by train, but it takes a long time. The cost of a ticket departing on weekends is higher than on weekdays. It depends on the time of travel and booking dates. The average ticket price from Moscow to the resort of Nha Trang is 33,456 rubles in April, 31,051 in May, 41,554 in June, and 40,670 rubles in July. You can get to any resort by ordering a transfer from the airport, by taxi, or by shuttle bus. From May to November there is a rainy season in the southern part of Vietnam. Last minute inexpensive tours are often offered. “Summer” or the dry season, which lasts here until April, is considered ideal for relaxation. In the northern part of the country, the optimal holiday period is from May to October. The sea in the central regions of Vietnam from December to February is covered with waves that are attractive to surfers.

Trip to Bali island

Beaches

Comparing beaches for different types of holidays

Vietnam

Vietnam's geographic location on the Indochina Peninsula has provided it with a long coastline washed by the South China Sea and with amazing beaches. At a length of 3,200 km, you can find a snow-white beach with gentle waves for children, an amazing underwater kingdom for diving enthusiasts, and high waves that will delight any windsurfer. The cost of services for water activities is low. The absence of regular ebbs and flows creates a real “lazy” beach holiday. The average temperature for the year is 22, warm sea, quality products, virgin nature have created a paradise for families with children. There is no need to look for a convenient beach here. You can go to Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Phu Quoc Island.

Bali

Attract lovers of water recreation. help even beginners master this sport. It is more difficult to organize here due to the ebb and flow of the tides and the pebble and rocky nature of many beaches. But every hotel has comfortable swimming pools.

Excursions, entertainment

Where to go and what to see.

Vietnam

While traveling around the country, you can get acquainted with its magnificent nature. Impenetrable jungle, cozy bays (among them the most beautiful place on the planet, Ha Long Bay), mountains, sea. A world of unknown plants, unique animals, amazing ancient temples, and other shrines. See the famous Moray Beach, the Rainbow coral reef, and underwater pearl plantations. Visit the zoo, botanical garden, amusement park, water park. You can visit the fabulous places of the country with excursions or on your own. Rent a motorcycle and go around the sights of interest will be much cheaper and faster. For example, the cost of an excursion to the Yang Bay Nature Reserve for three people costs $35 on a motorcycle, and with an excursion you have to pay $40 per person. The need for the services of a Russian-speaking guide increases the cost of the excursion by 2.3 times.

Bali

They amaze with their diversity, interesting ancient temples, and the original history of the small settlements of the island. Hundreds of legends, myths about fabulous nature, acquaintance with rare animals and plants can be learned while traveling.

It is a rare place on the planet that can boast such natural and man-made attractions.

Medical care, SPA procedures

Where is the best insurance and medical care?

Vietnam

When booking a tour, it is mandatory to purchase medical insurance. It is necessary to clarify in which nearest medical institutions it will be served. Medicine in the country is at a good, civilized level with inexpensive payment. The cost of SPA treatments here is much lower compared to services on the island of Bali.

Bali

Medical care on the island is very expensive. It is still recommended that you purchase extended insurance.

On the island, hot springs are considered a unique gift of nature. The healing water from them is used for healing and SPA procedures. Therapeutic baths, pools decorated with sculptures of mythological animals. The traditions of the Thai population are popular among tourists. Most of them are located inside ancient temples. There are restaurants and cafes nearby. It is difficult to find a person who would not benefit from relaxation and recovery in the hot springs of Bali.

The choice of a holiday destination (in Bali or Vietnam) always depends on the desires and capabilities of the person.

Dear forum visitors, I know that they will definitely help me here... We are two young couples (27-33), everyone works a lot, it’s difficult for everyone to find time to relax... But it seems that after New Year’s Eve, from about January 10-15, There is an opportunity to travel for a couple of weeks. The problem is in the choice - Cuba, Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, Hainan Island (China).. Before that we were either in Europe, or Turkey, Egypt. As we looked, the prices are about the same, and everywhere should be nice and warm... But we can’t choose specifically - our eyes run wild, we want it everywhere... Maybe you can help us decide. Thank you:)))

Catherine ... we always travel in groups without children. From the above I can say about Thai (Pataya) and Vietnam. The weather was very good both there (we went in January). There are... in Thailand, friends in 4 and 5, our hotel was much better. Vietnam I really liked it (we drove under our own power) we crossed the whole Vietnam from Hanoi to Saigon, flew to Cambodia for a couple of days and then... about 1000 for a family. So I advise if it’s a beach holiday, then Thailand or Vietnam If beach + excursions Vietnam.

When going to Asia, many are faced with a choice: Goa or Thailand? The choice is subjective and depends on many parameters. Where it is better to decide only on personal experience, taking into account your preferences. Even within the Goan coast there is a division between the prim south and the party north. Therefore, it is very difficult to compare the former Portuguese colony with other countries and even other states in India. Moreover, determine the advantages and disadvantages of a holiday in Goa or Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Bali or Thailand.

Where to go if not to Goa?

If you have never been to the countries of Southeast Asia, but have flown to Goa, then all roads are open to you. Different cultures, mentality, nature and national color are worth seeing with your own eyes. Other countries are perceived well after visiting India. On the contrary, it is more difficult. Therefore, it is much better to go to Goa or Sri Lanka, or, for example, to the islands in the Caribbean, after traveling to India.

Which is better: Goa or Vietnam

When choosing Goa or Vietnam, take into account, with almost the same climate:

1. The Vietnamese are very clean, unlike the Indians. If you prefer service and pay special attention to hygiene, then Goans are seriously losing out, even in five-star hotels.
2. Next to Vietnam are Cambodia and Laos, which can be reached on a tour by land or water. The rest of the states of India are accessible from Goa.
3. Vietnam attracts tourists from China; Goa is dominated by Russians and Europeans.

Vietnam and the most European state of India are approximately in the same price category; there is a choice of quiet beach idleness and active parties with visits to all the attractions.

Which is better: Goa or Thailand

The question, Goa or Thailand, has long become rhetorical. Each direction has its fans. Moreover, you can relax in different ways inside Thailand. Phuket is different from Pattaya. And Bangkok is from Koh Samui.

It’s good to weigh whether Thai or Goa is based on the following starting points:

1. In Thailand (with the exception of Pattaya), clear water and snow-white coastline await you. There is an unpleasant bonus - poisonous jellyfish. In Goa they are dangerous, but not fatal, and the water is cloudy and the sand is anything but white.
2. On average, the western coast of Hindustan has a drier climate during the tourist season. There is high humidity in Thailand at this time.
3. Hotels and infrastructure in Goa or Thailand simply cannot be compared. In India it is dirtier, the level of service is an order of magnitude lower, and the concept of comfort is very different from what is generally accepted in the world.
4. Thailand has more variety of food and more fruits. For Goans, it all comes down to rice, vegetables and seafood, heavily seasoned with spices.

In general, Thailand is more expensive and more comfortable for package tourism, but there is not such an unforgettable atmosphere of freedom and relaxed shanti as the Goans have. In addition, Indians, despite the natural desire to profit from tourists, are distinguished by their friendliness, sincerity and spontaneity.

Phuket

Absolutely different, incomparable resorts. It is useless to compare Goa or Phuket. Phuket is urbanized and modern, Goa is provincial.

The paradise landscapes of Tai are a real “bounty” from the tourist avenues. No animals. Infrastructure at European level. True, the prices are several times higher. But alcohol and fresh drinks in Phuket cost the same.

Pattaya

If a trip to Phuket will cost several times more, then when choosing between Goa or Pattaya, cost cannot be used as the main criterion. It is higher than in India, but not critical. The flight is certainly more expensive and takes about 10 hours on a direct flight.

Pattaya is a completely tourist city in Thailand. The sea is muddy, but not far from the coast there is a whole scattering of islands. A real paradise for diving and beach holidays, the waves are clear and soft. Serious infrastructure, huge selection of hotels. Private housing for rent is more difficult to find.

Which is better: Goa or Sri Lanka

The island state of Sri Lanka is located in the south of Hindustan. The culture and attitude to life of local residents is different. When deciding between Goa or Sri Lanka, Russians choose the islands: you don’t need a visa here if you fly for up to a month.

Otherwise, Sri Lanka is much calmer than the Goan coast. There is no nightlife. Alcohol is hard to come by. The climate is humid, and as a result the nature is more picturesque. Beautiful, clean beaches, narrow coastline, rocky bottom and good waves. The hotels have excellent service and 100% hygiene.

Prices in Sri Lanka are on average twice as high. The infrastructure is designed for respectable Europeans.

Goans are good-natured and cheerful; in Sri Lanka, communication with local residents is more difficult. The predominance of Islam is taking its toll.

Which is better: Goa or Bali

In Bali, tourism is financed at the government level. The infrastructure provides elite service and that says it all. Goa or Bali, the choice is yours, but the holiday will cost more. The beauty of man-made beaches, the riot of tropical bushes on the coast and coral reefs nearby. The clear sea attracts divers. Surfing and, of course, beach holidays are available.

Which is better: Goa or Kerala

India's rich cultural heritage attracts tourists not only to Goa. Other states cannot boast of such a flow, however, vacationers are gradually exploring their expanses. The Goa or Kerala question is incorrect. States are very different from each other.

In Kerala, tourism is just getting started. One of the most densely populated states creates its own special atmosphere. If Goa can be called the most European state of India, then in Kerala you will touch and feel the authentic culture of the peninsula.

The sea is characterized by strong waves. The beaches are rocky, high, uneven. The length of the coast is 0.5 thousand km. The climate is humid. The relief is richer: waterfalls, rivers, rocks facing the sea. Kerala is one of the top ten paradises on the planet, according to Traveler Magazine.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the Ayurveda centers, which are famous far beyond the borders of the state, and the acceptable level of cleanliness.

Prices are on average lower than in Goa. There is little entertainment, for example, in Varkala they can only be found on the Cliff, a tourist promenade.

The population's morals are stricter than in Goa. There are many Muslims and a very small flow of vacationers. Ecotourism is well developed. The sights and interesting architectural eclecticism of different styles and eras attract attention. Huge historical heritage.

Which is better: Dominican Republic or Goa

If you can compare the countries of Southeast Asia and ask the question, Goa or Sri Lanka, it is logical at least in terms of the geographical proximity of these regions, then flying to the Caribbean islands, firstly, costs more, and secondly, it is a completely different culture, service, nature and climate.

The Dominican Republic, which our tourists are interested in after Goan Shanti, is located many times further than Hindustan. This is the main reason why they are practically not there: a tiring flight discourages you from flying to a resort for several days. But Americans vacation in the Dominican Republic.

In the Dominican Republic you will find clean beaches, clear seas, impeccable service and well-developed infrastructure. Suitable for relaxing beach tourism. Excursions and entertainment are not very diverse.

Thailand, India, Vietnam or Sri Lanka attract not only with their tropical climate and the opportunity to soak up the warm sand. These countries have a rich cultural heritage, huge ecotourism opportunities and a real mecca for extreme gourmets. Every tourist resort finds its admirers. Deciding on the best place to fly is very difficult.