Vietnam emerges as top alternative to Thailand for beach holidays

Updated: 15:32, 09/09/2025

Vietnam has overtaken other Southeast Asian countries as the leading alterative to Thailand for tropical beach holidays, according to a Bangkok Post survey.

More than a quarter of respondents (26.3%) chose Vietnam as their preferred destination, ahead of the Philippines (18.9%), Indonesia (18.3%), Malaysia (12.7%), Cambodia (12.7%) and Singapore (11.1%), according to the online survey conducted between July 30 and Aug. 12.

Kem beach in Phu Quoc Island, southern Vietnam.

The Bangkok Post highlighted Phu Quoc as a bright spot, noting its pristine and poetic beaches that are increasingly drawing international visitors.

The survey also pointed out that Thai tourism needs to address key issues to maintain its position, including safety and law enforcement, improvements to transport infrastructure, and the development of unique tourism products.

Despite these challenges, Thailand remains widely regarded as a destination rich in cultural identity, cuisine, and hospitality. Many still see it as a budget-friendly country, while others value its balance of tradition and modernity.

Vietnam boasts more than 3,200 kilometers of coastline and renowned destinations such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hoi An and Ha Long Bay.

Many of its beaches have been recognized by international magazines among the most beautiful in Asia and the world.

Its coastal tourism infrastructure has also seen heavy investment, with high-end resorts, luxury hotels, and a growing number of direct international flights to seaside cities.

Phu Quoc has earned prestigious accolades from global travel publications. Most recently, it ranked third on Travel + Leisure magazine's list of the 10 best islands in the Asia-Pacific region, trailing only Bali and Koh Samui.

Last year, Phu Quoc was voted the second most beautiful island in Asia, after Bali of Indonesia, by readers of American magazine Condé Nast Traveler.