The decision to embark on a Southeast Asian adventure often leads travelers to a crossroads: Bali or Vietnam? These two enchanting destinations, each with its unique charm and character, beckon tourists and expatriates alike to explore their treasures. In the pursuit of the perfect getaway or a new chapter in life, the choice between Bali and Vietnam becomes a tantalizing dilemma. To help you make an informed decision, we'll delve into a comprehensive comparison of these destinations through the eyes of both ordinary tourists and intrepid expatriates, dissecting essential criteria from visas and transportation to culture and leisure. So, whether you're seeking an exotic vacation or contemplating a life-changing move, join us on this journey as we decipher the age-old question: Bali vs Vietnam, where is it better to go for tourists and expats??
Nature
Beaches and Ponds
Bali (Tourist): Bali is renowned for its stunning beaches like Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, attracting tourists with their golden sands and excellent surf conditions. The island offers a perfect setting for relaxation and water sports.
Interesting Fact: Bali's Kuta Beach is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, drawing crowds every evening.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam has a diverse coastline with beautiful beaches, such as Ha Long Bay, My Khe Beach, and Phu Quoc Island. Ha Long Bay is particularly famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts.
Interesting Fact: Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often called the "Bay of Descending Dragons."
Bali (Expat): As an expat, you'll have the privilege of enjoying Bali's beautiful beaches year-round. The beach towns are vibrant, with many expat-friendly amenities, making it easy to integrate into the community.
Vietnam (Expat): Vietnam's coast offers quieter and less touristy beaches, which can be a haven for expats seeking a more peaceful lifestyle. Places like Da Nang and Nha Trang provide a mix of nature and urban living.
Flora
Bali (Tourist): Bali's lush landscape is adorned with vibrant tropical flora. You'll encounter lush rice terraces, colorful frangipani flowers, and exotic orchids throughout the island.
Interesting Fact: Bali is known for its picturesque Tegalalang Rice Terraces, which showcase the intricate Balinese subak irrigation system.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam boasts a wide variety of flora, from the Mekong Delta's mangroves to the terraced rice fields of Sapa. The country's diverse geography supports a rich tapestry of plant life.
Interesting Fact: The "Crazy House" in Da Lat, Vietnam, is an eccentric guesthouse known for its whimsical, tree-like architecture integrated with the surrounding forest.
Bali (Expat): As an expat, you'll enjoy Bali's year-round greenery. You can cultivate your tropical garden, filled with exotic fruits and flowers, creating a serene oasis.
Vietnam (Expat): Vietnam's diverse flora will captivate expats who appreciate nature. You can explore the vast Mekong Delta or immerse yourself in the cool mountainous terrain of the north.
Fauna, Is it Dangerous?
Bali (Tourist): While Bali is home to some exotic wildlife like macaques, they are generally not dangerous if you avoid provoking them. However, snakes and certain insects can be venomous, so it's essential to be cautious.
Interesting Fact: The Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali is a sanctuary for hundreds of Balinese long-tailed monkeys.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam's wildlife is diverse, with many unique species. While most wildlife is not dangerous to tourists, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines to avoid potential risks.
Interesting Fact: The Cat Tien National Park in Vietnam is home to the elusive Javan rhinoceros, one of the world's rarest mammals.
Bali (Expat): As an expat in Bali, you'll need to adapt to coexisting with local wildlife. It's advisable to take precautions against venomous creatures, but interactions with them are rare.
Vietnam (Expat): In Vietnam, expats may encounter wildlife in rural areas. It's essential to understand local wildlife and learn how to coexist peacefully with the environment.
Civilization
Supermarkets, Shops, Markets, and Food Stalls
Bali offers a mix of traditional markets and modern supermarkets. Tourists can enjoy exploring vibrant markets like Ubud Market for handicrafts and fresh produce, while supermarkets like Bintang Supermarket provide convenience.
Interesting Fact: Bali's Ubud Market is famous for its intricate handmade crafts, from wood carvings to batik clothing.
Vietnam is a bustling hub of markets and shops. You can explore famous markets like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi's Old Quarter for a variety of goods. Supermarkets like VinMart and Co.op Mart are readily available.
Interesting Fact: Hoi An's night market in Vietnam is renowned for its lantern-lit streets, creating a magical shopping experience.
Food Products, Assortment, and Prices
Bali provides a mix of traditional and modern shopping options, with various supermarkets. Prices can vary but are generally affordable compared to Western countries. Rough estimate totals around $35 to $60 per person for a week when preparing your own food and buying groceries from a supermarket in Bali.
- Bread (1 loaf): $2
- Chicken breast (1kg): $6
- Tomatoes (1kg): $1
- Bananas (1kg): $1
- Milk (1 liter): $1.50
- Local beer (0.5 liter): $2.50
Vietnam's markets offer a wide range of affordable fresh produce and local products. Supermarkets like Big C and Lotte Mart. Prices are budget-friendly, making it economical for daily living. Rough estimate totals around $30 to $50 per person for a week when preparing your own food and buying groceries from a supermarket.
- Bread (1 loaf): $0.50
- Chicken breast (1kg): $5
- Tomatoes (1kg): $1
- Bananas (1kg): $1
- Milk (1 liter): $1
- Local beer (0.5 liter): $1.50
Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and actual costs can vary based on your choices, the supermarket you shop at, and the local market prices. Bali offers a range of supermarkets, from budget-friendly to upscale, allowing you to adjust your expenses based on your preferences and dietary requirements.
Cafes and Restaurants, Prices
Bali offers a range of dining options. Tourists can find affordable local warungs, mid-range restaurants, and upscale dining. Prices vary, but overall, dining out can be cost-effective.
- Budget meal at a local warung: $3-5
- Mid-range restaurant: $10-20
- Fine dining: $30+
Interesting Fact: Bali is known for its beachfront cafes and bars, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
Vietnam boasts a vibrant street food culture, with budget-friendly options. Restaurants cater to various budgets, and you can enjoy a delicious meal for a fraction of the cost in many Western countries.
- Budget meal at a local eatery: $2-4
- Mid-range restaurant: $5-10
- Fine dining: $20+
Interesting Fact: "Bia hoi" is a popular concept in Vietnam, referring to fresh beer that's incredibly cheap and enjoyed at local beer joints.
Safety
Bali is generally safe for tourists. However, petty theft can be an issue, so it's advisable to be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Interesting Fact: Bali is known for its strong sense of community and the belief in karma, which promotes positive behavior.
Vietnam is considered safe for tourists. Petty crime can occur, so it's wise to keep an eye on your belongings. Additionally, traffic can be chaotic, so exercise caution when crossing the streets.
Interesting Fact: Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and friendliness toward tourists.
Rules and Freedoms
Bali (Tourist): Bali has a laid-back vibe, offering tourists a sense of freedom to explore and relax. However, it's essential to respect local customs and traditions.
Interesting Fact: Bali observes Nyepi, a day of silence, when tourists are expected to stay indoors and respect the island's customs.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam has rules and regulations that tourists need to follow, including dress codes when visiting temples and cultural sites. It's essential to respect local customs and traditions.
Interesting Fact: The ao dai, a traditional Vietnamese dress, is a symbol of cultural pride and often worn on special occasions.
Bali (Expat): As an expat in Bali, you'll enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with a mix of international and local customs. It's crucial to adapt to local norms while maintaining your own cultural identity.
Vietnam (Expat): As an expat in Vietnam, respecting local customs and traditions is essential. You'll find a balance between your own freedoms and cultural sensitivity as you integrate into the community.
People
Attitude Towards Tourists and Expats
Bali (Tourist): Balinese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Tourists are generally welcomed with open arms, and the locals are eager to share their culture. The island's economy heavily relies on tourism, so tourists are an integral part of the community.
Interesting Fact: In Bali, it's customary to greet with a "Salam Sejahtera" (peaceful greetings), reflecting the friendly nature of the Balinese people.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnamese people are known for their friendliness and curiosity towards tourists. They are often eager to help and interact with travelers, making it a welcoming destination.
Interesting Fact: The traditional Vietnamese greeting is a bow or a nod, called "cúi đầu," which shows respect and politeness.
Bali (Expat): Bali's expat community is well-established and diverse. The locals generally have a positive attitude towards expats, as they contribute to the local economy and cultural exchange.
Vietnam (Expat): Expats in Vietnam are generally well-received by the locals. Vietnamese people are friendly and curious about different cultures, which can make expat integration more manageable.
Languages of Communication
While Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, many Balinese people working in the tourism industry speak English, especially in popular tourist areas like Kuta and Ubud.
Interesting Fact: Balinese, a language of the Austronesian family, is also spoken in Bali, showcasing the island's unique cultural diversity.
Vietnamese is the official language, and while English is not as widely spoken as in some other Asian countries, many people in tourist areas can communicate in basic English.
Interesting Fact: Vietnamese is a tonal language, which means the meaning of words can change depending on the pitch or tone used.
Bali (Expat): As an expat in Bali, you can get by with English in most situations, but learning some Bahasa Indonesia can enhance your experience and interactions with the local community.
Vietnam (Expat): Learning some Vietnamese will significantly improve your expat experience in Vietnam, as it can help you navigate daily life and form deeper connections with locals.
Bureaucracy
Bali (Tourist): Tourists typically do not encounter significant bureaucratic challenges in Bali. Visa requirements are relatively straightforward for short stays, and most transactions are hassle-free.
Interesting Fact: Bali offers a visa-free entry for many nationalities for short visits.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam's bureaucracy can be more complex for tourists. Obtaining visas, especially for longer stays, may require some planning and documentation.
Interesting Fact: Vietnam offers e-visas and visa on arrival services, making the process more accessible for tourists.
Bali (Expat): As an expat in Bali, dealing with bureaucracy can be relatively straightforward, especially if you have a work permit or long-term visa. Local authorities are generally helpful in guiding expats through the process.
Vietnam (Expat): Expat life in Vietnam may involve more interaction with bureaucracy, particularly for work permits and long-term visas. However, expat communities and resources are available to help navigate these processes.
In conclusion, both Bali and Vietnam offer warm and welcoming environments for tourists and expats, with friendly people and diverse cultures. While there are some differences in language and bureaucracy, both destinations provide unique and enriching experiences for those looking to explore and live in Southeast Asia. The choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
Entertainment
Leisure
Bali offers a wide range of leisure activities for tourists. You can relax on beautiful beaches, explore lush rice terraces, and indulge in spa treatments. Bali's vibrant culture and art scene provide plenty of opportunities for leisurely exploration.
Interesting Fact: Bali is known for its traditional Balinese dance performances, which tell captivating stories through graceful movements and intricate costumes.
Vietnam provides diverse leisure options. You can take a cruise in the stunning Ha Long Bay, explore ancient temples in Hoi An, or trek through the terraced rice fields in Sapa.
Interesting Fact: The Mekong Delta in Vietnam offers unique leisure opportunities with its floating markets, where locals trade goods from boats.
Nightlife
Bali's nightlife is famous for its beach clubs, bars, and vibrant party scene. Seminyak and Kuta are hotspots for nightlife, with beachfront parties and clubs that stay open late into the night.
Interesting Fact: The Rock Bar in Bali is perched on a cliff and is renowned for its breathtaking sunset views and innovative cocktails.
Vietnam has a lively nightlife, especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. You can enjoy rooftop bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
Interesting Fact: Ho Chi Minh City's Bui Vien Street is a bustling hub of nightlife, with a wide variety of bars and street food vendors.
Attractions
Bali is rich in cultural attractions, including temples like Uluwatu and Besakih. You can also explore natural wonders like waterfalls and volcanoes. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is a must-visit.
Interesting Fact: The Besakih Temple complex is known as the "Mother Temple of Bali" and is the largest and holiest temple on the island.
Vietnam boasts a wide range of attractions. You can visit the ancient town of Hoi An, explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, and cruise through the stunning Ha Long Bay.
Interesting Fact: Ha Long Bay is famous for its nearly 2,000 limestone islands and islets, creating a mesmerizing seascape.
Hotels and Rental Housing
Situation in the Housing Market for Tourists in General
Bali has a thriving tourist accommodation market with a wide range of options. Tourists can choose from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and homestays. Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms also offer various choices.
Interesting Fact: Bali has some of the world's most unique accommodations, including treehouse villas and underwater hotels.
Vietnam's housing market for tourists is diverse, offering everything from luxury hotels and resorts to affordable guesthouses and hostels. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you'll find international hotel chains.
Interesting Fact: The "tube houses" in Hanoi are famous for their narrow and tall structure, a unique architectural feature of the city.
As an expat in Bali, you'll find a wide range of housing options, including long-term rentals, villas, and apartments. The island caters to different budgets, from affordable local housing to luxurious expat-oriented accommodations.
Vietnam's housing market for expats is growing, particularly in urban areas. You can choose between apartments, serviced residences, or renting a house. Prices vary depending on location and amenities.
Price for Economy Hotels and Luxury
Bali offers economy hotels for budget-conscious tourists, with prices starting at around $20-$50 per night. Luxury resorts can range from $100 to $500+ per night, offering exquisite amenities and oceanfront views.
Interesting Fact: Bali's luxury resorts often feature private infinity pools and stunning cliffside locations.
Vietnam provides affordable economy hotels, starting at approximately $20-$60 per night. Luxury hotels can range from $100 to $300+ per night, delivering top-notch service and comfort.
Interesting Fact: The Rex Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City played a significant role in the Vietnam War and is now a luxury hotel with historical significance.
Cheapest and Average Monthly Rental Prices for Rooms, Apartments, Houses, Villas
In Bali you can find budget-friendly rooms and apartments for rent, with monthly prices starting at around $300 to $1,000+. Villas are available for rent at higher prices, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000+ per month.
Interesting Fact: Bali's "rumah kos" are affordable rooming houses often used by long-term tourists and students.
Vietnam offers economical monthly rentals, with rooms and apartments starting at around $200 to $800+. Houses and villas for rent can range from $800 to $3,000+ per month, depending on location and size.
Interesting Fact: In Hoi An, you can rent charming ancient houses for a unique living experience.
Transport
Public Transport
Bali (Tourist): Bali's public transport system primarily consists of buses and bemos (small minivans). However, these may not be the most convenient options for tourists. Many tourists prefer to hire private drivers or use ride-sharing apps for more flexibility.
Interesting Fact: The island is planning to develop a new monorail system to improve public transport in the future.
Vietnam (Tourist): Vietnam has a more extensive public transport network, including buses, trains, and a growing metro system in major cities. Overnight sleeper trains are a popular option for traveling long distances.
Interesting Fact: The Reunification Express is a famous train route in Vietnam, connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, offering scenic views along the way.
As an expat in Bali, public transport may not be the most reliable option for daily commuting. Many expats opt for motorbikes or cars, especially if they live in rural areas.
Vietnam's public transport is more developed and accessible for expats. The availability of buses and metros in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi makes it easier for daily commuting.
Taxis
Bali has a variety of taxi services, including Blue Bird Taxis, known for their reliability and use of meters. Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are also popular among tourists.
Interesting Fact: Bali's "ojeks" are motorcycle taxis, offering a unique way to navigate through traffic, especially in congested areas.
Vietnam has a plethora of taxi companies, with Mai Linh and Vinasun being among the most reputable. Ride-sharing apps like Grab are widely used and often more affordable.
Interesting Fact: "Cyclos," or cycle rickshaws, are traditional taxis in Vietnam, offering a slower-paced, cultural transport experience.
Car Rental, Prices
Bali (Tourist): Renting a car in Bali can be relatively expensive, with prices varying depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. Expect daily rates starting at $30 and upwards.
Interesting Fact: Many rental cars in Bali come with a driver, which can be a convenient option for tourists.
Vietnam (Tourist): Car rental prices in Vietnam are competitive, with rates starting at around $25-$40 per day for a basic car. Prices can vary depending on the location and vehicle type.
Interesting Fact: Vietnam offers a variety of vehicles for rent, from compact cars to SUVs and even motorbikes for the more adventurous travelers.
Bali (Expat): Expat residents in Bali may choose to rent or purchase a car for their daily commute, but prices can be relatively high compared to some other countries.
Vietnam (Expat): Expats in Vietnam often opt for car rentals, which can be more affordable than owning a vehicle. Rental rates are reasonable, making it a practical choice for daily transportation.
Rental of Mmtorbikes, Prices
Bali (Tourist): Renting a motorbike is a popular choice for tourists in Bali. Prices start at around $5-$10 per day, making it an affordable and convenient way to explore the island.
Interesting Fact: Bali has a unique motorbike culture, with a variety of custom bikes and scooters for rent.
Vietnam (Tourist): Motorbike rentals are widespread in Vietnam, and they're often the preferred mode of transport for tourists. Prices range from $5 to $15 per day, depending on the location and type of motorbike.
Interesting Fact: The "xe om" service in Vietnam refers to motorbike taxi drivers who can take you around the city quickly and inexpensively.
Bali (Expat): As an expat in Bali, renting a motorbike or purchasing one can be a practical and affordable choice for daily transportation.
Vietnam (Expat): Many expats in Vietnam choose to rent or purchase motorbikes for their daily commute. It's a cost-effective and flexible way to navigate the city's traffic.
Visas
Vietnam
As of October 2023, Vietnam has implemented a number of measures to facilitate international travel. Here are the key points regarding visa rules and procedures in Vietnam:
- E-Visa Validity and Application
Effective from August 15, 2023, e-visas are available for travelers from all countries and territories, allowing a stay of up to 90 days with multiple entries. The cost for an e-visa is 25 USD. Applications for e-visas can be submitted on the e-visa web portal of the Vietnam Immigration Department or at the National Public Service Portal of the Ministry of Public Security. - The application process for e-visas is straightforward: fill in the online form with personal and travel details, upload a digital photo meeting standard visa photo requirements, pay the visa fee online, and wait for the e-visa to be processed, which usually takes three working days. Once approved, the e-visa will be sent to the applicant's email as a PDF file which needs to be printed and presented upon arrival.
- Visa Costs:
The cost for a single-entry version of the 90-day visa remains the same as the old 30-day visa, at 25 USD, plus a small processing fee. The multiple-entry version of the 90-day visa costs 50 USD, plus the processing fee.
The processing fee for a Vietnam e-visa ranges from 25 USD to 80 USD depending on the applicant’s nationality and selected processing time. - Visa Extensions and Visa-on-Arrival
E-visas cannot be extended once issued. If travelers wish to stay in Vietnam for more than 30 days, they must apply for a visa extension through the Immigration Department in Vietnam.
Vietnam has extended its free visa-on-arrival from 15 to 45 days for select countries, effective from August 15, 2023, as a part of an initiative to boost tourism recovery. - Required Documentation
Applicants for a Vietnam e-visa must have a valid passport, provide personal and travel information, proof of accommodation, and a digital photo. Payment of the visa fee is also a requirement for the application
Indonesia (Bali)
The visa rules in Indonesia as of October 2023 are as follows:
- Visa Types and Application
Travelers need a valid visa or a stay permit to enter Indonesia. They can apply for an eVisa before their trip.
One notable visa type is the B211A Tourism Visa, which needs to be arranged before traveling through an authorized Indonesian travel agent.
Travelers can also obtain a Visa On Arrival (VOA) at the airport or apply for an eVOA in advance through the official website. Both VOA and eVOA are issued for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office, allowing a total stay of up to 60 days in Indonesia. - Visa Policies for Different Countries
Indonesia has a visa exemption policy for 11 countries, an on-arrival visa policy for 35 countries, and an online visa policy for 176 countries. Some of the top countries with favorable visa policies include East Timor, Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore. However, 16 countries are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival. - eVisa Application Process
Travelers can explore and apply for a suitable visa on the official eVisa website for Indonesia. They need to prepare the required documents, make a visa fee payment using SIMPONI or Mastercard, Visa, or JCB credit/debit card. Once approved, a link to download the visa will be sent to the applicant's email. - Visa Costs
The costs associated with visa applications and extensions can vary. It's advisable to check the official eVisa website or contact an authorized Indonesian travel agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa fees. - Required Documentation
Although the specific documentation required can vary depending on the visa type, generally, travelers will need to provide personal and travel information, proof of accommodation, and possibly other documents as stipulated by the Indonesian government or the authorized travel agent handling the visa application.
For the most accurate and detailed information, it's advisable to consult the official eVisa website for Indonesia or contact the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country.
Summary
The article "Bali vs Vietnam, where is it better to go for tourists and expats?" undertakes a thorough examination of Bali and Vietnam as travel and living destinations for both tourists and expatriates. Across several key criteria, we have dissected the pros and cons of each location.
For Tourists:
Bali offers an enchanting blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a well-established tourism infrastructure. Tourists can revel in beautiful beaches, lush rice terraces, and cultural attractions. The island's visa policies, including visa on arrival and extensions, cater to tourists seeking short-term stays.
Vietnam boasts diverse landscapes, historic sites, and a burgeoning tourism sector. It provides a range of experiences, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside. Visa policies, while varying by nationality, often allow tourists to enjoy the country without extensive visa processes.
For Expatriates:
Bali presents a vibrant expat community with a wide range of accommodation options. Long-term visas are available for those who meet specific criteria, such as social visas, retirement visas, or business visas. The island offers a relaxed lifestyle, but the cost of living can vary widely depending on one's preferences.
Vietnam offers a growing expat scene, particularly in urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Long-term visas, including business visas and work permits, cater to expatriates. Vietnam's affordable cost of living, diverse culture, and robust infrastructure are major draws.
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We invite readers to confirm or refute the conclusions drawn in this article based on their personal experiences and preferences. Both Bali and Vietnam are incredibly dynamic and multifaceted destinations, and individual experiences can vary widely. Sharing insights and perspectives can provide a more comprehensive view of these remarkable places.
