Thailand or Bali - Which Travel Destination Is for You?

So your heart is set on Southeast Asia, and you just can’t choose between Thailand or Bali. First of all, how exciting! From sun-kissed beaches to tropical island-hopping, vibrant nightlife to mouthwatering cuisines, these two destinations are iconic for a reason. To help you decide where to go, check out our guide below. ☀️

Beaches and Islands 🏖️

Thailand

When you think of Thailand, you picture paradise. Home to more than 1,400 islands, your new favourite beach is never far away. Those tropical limestone cliffs and traditional longtail boats are instantly recognisable; yet the thing about island-hopping in Thailand is that every beach has its own unique charm. Partying the night away or unwinding by the sea? Take your pick in Thailand.

• Koh Phangan: Best for… Full Moon parties
• Koh Phi Phi: Best for… bucket-list views🌅
• Phuket: Best for… island-hopping 🏝️

Bali

Bali, also known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, is where all your island-hopping fantasies come true. Savour the beachside bars and surfing waves of Canggu, or escape to secluded stretches of sand hidden all around this stunning province. Just off the coast, discover even more enchanting destinations like the rugged shores of Nusa Penida or the powder-white stretches of Gili Trawangan.

• Canggu: Best for… surfing 🏄
• Gili Trawangan: Best for… snorkelling 🤿
• Lovina: Best for… less discovered scenery 🌊

And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, even more awaits on our Indonesia tours: for island-hopping in Bali and beyond!

Thailand or Bali?

Whichever destination you choose, heavenly beaches await. Thailand overall has more sandy stretches to choose from and there is an experience for everyone, from snorkelling and party paradises to secluded getaways.

As an island, Bali’s beaches are a huge part of the lifestyle. It is super easy to meet like-minded travellers who share a love for the ocean, especially since Bali is home to some of the best surfing in the world!

Activities 🌊

Thailand

Part of what makes our Thailand trips so magical is all the different activities you can do here. Whether the golden temples of Bangkok and Chiang Mai are high on your bucket list, or you have always dreamed of seeing your first Asian elephant at an ethical sanctuary, life-changing memories are right around the corner.

With views like these, you just want to see and do as much as possible. Some of the best activities to try in Thailand have to be snorkelling among all the marine life, kayaking around Khao Sok National Park (fun fact: it’s just as biodiverse as the Amazon Rainforest! 🐒) and, of course, experiencing the legendary nightlife!

Bali

From sunrise volcano treks to yoga retreats, surfing to water temples, your perfect adventure awaits in Bali. Whereas Canggu is an incredible base for exploring Bali’s nightlife and boho cafes, Ubud is a dream destination for those interested in Bali’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Alongside its beautiful beaches and cultural melting pot, one of Bali’s biggest draws has to be all the breathtaking wildlife you can witness here. Dolphins, sea turtles, friendly manta rays and the iconic macaque monkeys who call Ubud’s Sacred Forest home are just a few of the animals you can spot on our Bali tours.

Thailand or Bali?

Whatever experience you’re after in Thailand or Bali, it is easy to find. You could spend weeks exploring either of these destinations and feel like you are only just getting started. Thailand is slightly more varied in activities, as its northern and southern regions are culturally distinct. Thailand first-timers will feel blown away by the sheer amount that you can do here in just a few weeks. Although Bali may be the smaller destination of the two, it’s also full of surprises and the island’s passionate energy is addictive. If you have always longed to try an activity while travelling, you’ll find your calling in Bali!

Sights & Landmarks 🌴

Thailand

Thailand’s diversity is outstanding. Live the city life in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, famed for their bustling backstreets where you can get your first taste of Thailand’s night market culture. It’s also an incredible opportunity to discover Thailand’s signature sights and landmarks, including unmissable temples like Wat Pho and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. 

Between Bangkok’s waterfront, where you can spot the lotus-shaped pagodas of Wat Arun, and Chiang Mai’s ring of emerald mountains, even the cityscapes are iconic. It makes you want to get out there and explore, and just when you think you have seen it all, nature escapes await. Picture yourself spending the night in a floating bungalow on the waters of Khao Sok, or visiting the legendary stretches of Maya Bay.

Thailand’s sights and landmarks are about so much more than ticking off your bucket list. It is your chance to make new memories and friends for life, so you can look back on your travels and say, “I did that!”.

Bali

Bali’s sights and landmarks stay with you forever. Even more gorgeous in person, nothing can prepare you for witnessing the cascading rice terraces or the ancient Hindu temples for the very first time. From Tanah Lot Temple floating on its own little islet by the sea to the sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to cheeky macaque residents, Bali’s atmosphere is incredible. And who could forget about the water temples, where you can partake in centuries-old spiritual traditions?

Despite everything that Bali has to offer, its natural beauty may be one of its best sights. With a ‘coconut tree rule’ that prevents the construction of skyscrapers on the island, Bali may not have cities in the traditional sense of the word. Yet this means that you can truly experience the best of both worlds wherever you are in Bali, including the nightlife hotspots like Canggu and Kuta.

Thailand or Bali?

The sights and landmarks of Thailand or Bali shape your trip. Either of these destinations are filled with ‘pinch-me’ moments, whether that is exploring temples, immersing yourself in the local culture or enjoying the tropical scenery.

Culture 🌞

Thailand

Did you know that Thailand is nicknamed the ‘Land of Smiles’? It is easy to see why! When you arrive, Thai culture is famously polite and friendly, with Buddhist traditions shaping customs. There are a few social rules to keep in mind, such as showing respect for the Thai monarchy and dressing modestly at temples. 

Beyond that, Thai culture is super laidback and will make anyone, including nervous first-time travellers, feel at ease. Thailand truly is a destination for everyone. As the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, Thailand is paving the way as one of the world’s best LGBTQIA+ friendly travel destinations. 🌈

Bali

What makes Bali unique is that it is the only province in Indonesia that is predominantly Hindu, compared to the rest of the country which generally adopts a Muslim faith. What this means is that many local people in Bali worship multiple gods and believe in karmic energy. On a trip to Bali, you may notice small baskets of flowers and incense; these are sacred daily offerings to the gods.

Whilst the island today is an international melting pot that welcomes backpackers and expats from all over the globe, there are aspects of Balinese culture that are deeply rooted in tradition. A kind and considerate attitude goes a long way in Bali, and if you are ever unsure of cultural customs, your tour guide will always be happy to help. 

Thailand or Bali?

Thailand and Bali are equally known for their warm and welcoming cultures. Whereas Thai culture is primarily influenced by the Buddhist faith, Bali is predominantly a Hindu island. To be welcomed into someone else’s home is such a privilege, and we ask that all travellers show respect to the local people and sights, regardless of where you go.

Both of these destinations are amazing choices for first-time travellers. From authentic travel moments to social backpacker scenes that make it easy to find new friends, Thailand or Bali have everything you need to make those first travel memories magical.

Food 🍜

Thailand

Thailand is an easy choice as one of the best destinations in the world for amazing food. How could it not be when fragrant curries, steamy noodle dishes and everyone’s favourite stir fry, Pad Thai, are all on the table? From hot grilled skewers to oh-so-sweet mango sticky rice, the flavours of Thailand pack a punch. Needless to say, exploring the night markets here is an absolute must!

And if there is one thing better than tasting it all, it has to be making it. Our traditional cooking classes are one of our favourite activities to do in Thailand, as you get to prepare an authentic recipe from scratch before digging into your plate. Sign us up!

Bali

Beyond the beaches and iconic rice terraces, Bali is also a foodie paradise! Famed for its fresh herbs and spices, Balinese cuisine is bursting with flavours. There are options for almost everybody, including vegan and vegetarian travellers. Typically, you can expect to dig into a few different plates - including rice platters served with your protein of choice (i.e., chicken, fish, tempeh or tofu), plus an optional side of spicy sambal sauce.

The tropical fruits and vegetables grown in Bali are out-of-this-world tasty, and so trying acai or smoothie bowls should be at the top of your list. With so many trendy cafes and restaurants to choose from, your trip leader can give you the inside scoop on where to go!

Thailand or Bali?

While Thai cuisine prides itself on its traditionally warm and aromatic palette, Balinese food is a bit more of a global fusion alongside the local dishes. Either way, the ingredients are unbelievably delicious. Regardless of whether you choose Thailand or Bali, it’s safe to say that you can expect some of the tastiest meals of your life right around the corner!

Nightlife and Entertainment 🎉

Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the world’s most exhilarating nightlife, with something to keep you entertained wherever you are in the country. Whether your dream evening involves kicking back with a few drinks or digging into the night markets, or you’re craving the ultimate night out, Thailand can match any pace. 

Discover island paradise after dark with fire shows and dancing under the stars. Join Koh Tao’s world-famous bar crawl or attend one of Koh Phangan’s legendary Full and Half Moon parties. Or explore the best of Bangkok and Chiang Mai’s nightlife, two of Asia’s iconic party capitals with endless rooftop bars, nightclubs and neon-lit laneways to choose from.

That’s not all. Thailand has an amazing variety of festivals celebrated throughout the year, which you may want to plan your trip around. Songkran (Thai New Year) makes an April trip truly unforgettable with epic water fights all over the country. You may recognise it from The White Lotus; and speaking of cinematic moments, Chiang Mai’s Yi Peng Lantern Festival, celebrated later in the year, is like something out of the fairytale movie Tangled!

Bali

Bali’s nightlife almost needs no introduction. Famed for its vibrant beachside bars and incredible clubbing scene dotted across the island, enthralling memories are waiting to be made in Bali. 

While the nightlife on Bali’s main island is more spread out, there is a special place called Gili Trawangan that transforms after sunset. This tiny island is famed for its sensational pub crawls across the car-free streets, plus its daily parties at different venues each night!

The many festivals of Bali are truly spectacular, from Hindu celebrations to colourful parades and events shining a spotlight on local artists. One of the biggest moments of the year has to be the Bali Art Festival, typically held in June to July, which is held in honour of Bali’s rich cultural traditions. Stunning costumes, shadow puppetry and live music are just a few of the things you can experience!

Of course, who could forget about Nyepi, Bali’s world-famous ‘Day of Silence’? Taking place around March, the island shuts down for one day of the year to cleanse itself of any negative spirits. What this means as a traveller is a chance to take it easy, chill out by the pool and do some stargazing. How many people can say they got to live this extraordinary aspect of Balinese culture?

Thailand or Bali?

Thailand and Bali are two of the biggest nightlife destinations in Asia; so whichever one you choose, you know you’re in for a good time! If beach parties and rooftop bars are more your vibe, go with Thailand. For lounging by the pool with cocktails and embracing the island life, nowhere does it quite like Bali.

When You Want to Travel 🌏

Thailand

Say goodbye to the UK’s grey winter skies! From the months of November to March, you can experience a winter sun getaway during Thailand’s dry season. This is easily the most popular time of year to visit the country, and is anyone surprised?

Yet don’t be fooled into thinking that the dry season is the only best time to visit Thailand. The country’s lush rainy season lasts from May to October, promising bright emerald scenery and budget-friendly prices. The spells of rain are less frequent compared to what we have at home; so you don’t have to rule out beach days, either!

Bali

With its dry season falling from April to September, Bali is an easy choice as one of the best summer travel destinations in the world. After all, nothing screams summer more than snorkelling around in turquoise waters and soaking up the sunshine on powder-white shores!

Just like Thailand, Bali’s rainy season is an incredible option for travellers who want to experience these stunning destinations out of peak season. Not only will you be potentially saving on travel costs, but you can also discover the island’s natural beauty in all its colourful glory - no filters necessary.

Thailand or Bali?

Deciding when to visit Thailand or Bali ultimately comes down to preference. There is truly never a ‘bad’ moment to visit; and who knows, you may actually end up preferring Thailand and Bali during their rainy seasons!

If you are planning on visiting both of these destinations at the most popular times of year, why not plan accordingly? You could easily spend a few exploring Thailand in March or April before heading over to Bali around May to June.

Cost of Travel 💷

Thailand

Between the super affordable prices and the haggling culture, Thailand is a backpacking paradise in more ways than one. While Thailand is a large destination that may require some planning to navigate, you can still find budget-friendly overnight trains and buses. Even internal flights are not as expensive compared to other countries, although it is worth noting that the cost of travel is relative to everyone.

With land connections to other iconic Southeast Asia destinations such as Vietnam, Thailand is also a reliable base for any bigger travel plans.

Bali

Bali can cater to any budget, including those looking to explore at extremely affordable prices. Haggling is a big part of the culture at the markets here. As a relatively small destination, travelling around Bali is generally straightforward with ferries being the primary mode of transportation. If you plan on doing a longer adventure around Indonesia, it can be helpful to book 1 or 2 internal flights. Again, this is super affordable compared to other parts of the world.

Thailand or Bali?

Purely due to distance, Thailand is slightly more budget-friendly when it comes to the cost of travel (although our flights partner can help you to find the best deals for both destinations ✈️). Getting to Bali takes a little bit longer, with around a 4-hour difference, so this is an exciting chance to tick off another destination like Singapore as part of the journey.

Our Thailand or Bali showdown may be over, yet your adventures are just beginning. Maybe you’ve decided that the beach parties of Koh Phi Phi are the place to be, or maybe it’s Ubud’s rice terraces that are calling your name… Or maybe you’re thinking, “Why not both?”

Exciting news: you can! Meet Thai & Bali Intro, our incredible multi-trip combo that allows you to discover the best of these two legendary destinations, all whilst saving with an exclusive discount. With complete freedom to choose your trip lengths and when you start the next adventure, travel on your terms has never been easier.

That’s only the start of all the different trips we offer. Start exploring our group tours today to see what we mean!