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canggu - labuan bajo
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Bali and Thailand are two iconic backpacking spots! They are unmissable, and they HAVE to be on your travel bucket list. BUT what if you only have time for one? It's a tough one...and one that we're not going to give you a straight forward to - because, quite simply, there isn't one. Thailand has endless islands, the beauty of the north and insane beaches all over the south. Bali has the vibes, They are like our children; we're protective over them both and love them dearly. We started TruTravels in Thailand, and Bali was one of our first tours once we got running too. Anyway, we're going to hop off the fence now and start telling you where comes up on top...well, kind of.
Bali and Thailand are two iconic backpacking spots! They are unmissable, and they HAVE to be on your travel bucket list. BUT what if you only have time for one? It's a tough one...and one that we're not going to give you a straight forward to - because, quite simply, there isn't one. Thailand has endless islands, the beauty of the north and insane beaches all over the south. Bali has the vibes, They are like our children; we're protective over them both and love them dearly. We started TruTravels in Thailand, and Bali was one of our first tours once we got running too. Anyway, we're going to hop off the fence now and start telling you where comes up on top...well, kind of.
Best for beaches: Thailand
This was a tough one, but we think Thailand JUST about takes this one. With beaches such as Bottle Beach, Maya Bay, Tonsai Beach, and Railay Beach, just to name a few, they are some of Thailand's most epic spots. If you are looking for movie-like beaches and views that will make you go, "omg, am I dreaming?" then you HAVE to visit Thailand. Beaches in Thailand are mainly in the south, so if you fancy seeing some of the best bays, then head down to the south and island-hop your way around. We've got a perfect two-week route that will fill all your island hopping cravings and it starts in Bangkok, which is ALWAYS a win logistics-wise.
BUT! We do have to say that if we were talking about Indonesia, it would be an even tighter competition. Islands such as Lombok and the beaches in the Komodo Islands are some of the most insane beaches we have EVER seen. We're talking Pink Beaches, dreamy island hopping spots and days with endless breathtaking views. The best way to explore Indonesia's best beaches is by boat, and luckily for you, we have got the most incredible 18-day Indonesia tour which ticks off Bali highlights as well as an island hopping boat trip around the Komodo Islands.
Best for Culture: Thailand (JUST)
Look, both Bali and Thailand have plenty of Buddhist and Hindu temples that are amazing for exploring and learning about. But if we are talking about culture that you can experience first hand and immerse yourself in, then Thailand just about takes the prize. Think living with a hill tribe in the north of Thailand, learning how to cook and barter at the markets with the locals, mastering the skill of Muay Thai and working up a sweat. These are just a few of the awesome activities you can experience across Thailand.
Bali also has incredible cultural moments. As soon as you arrive, you'll be hopping over the beautiful offerings that many families lay out on the road, and you'll quickly learn how accommodating and kind the locals are, too. Again, if we were looking a little wider than Bali, Sumatra has amazing options for cultural immersion. You can stay with a Mentawi Tribe, getting to experience how they hunt, cook food and make clothes too. On this island, you'll also get to learn all about the local efforts to keep the turtle population going, and the community spirit in this region is so alive you can feel it everywhere you go!
Best for food: Thailand
Mango sticky rice...need we say anymore? We LOVE food, and we've always been led around the world by our stomachs. So, of course, Thailand is always going to have a special place in our hearts. From Thai Green Curries to Pad Thai and all types of Fried Rice, Thailand's food scene is OFF the charts good, and the best bit? It's so cheap too! If you are there, make sure you take time to do a cooking class too - they are the best way to learn all about the spices, preparation and care that goes into every Thai dish. We promise you'll never eat rice or noodles the same way after a cooking class in Thailand.
Of course, no mention of food would be complete without talking about Nasi Goreng or Mi Goreng in Bali. These iconic dishes in Bali are everywhere - and for good reason! They are super tasty, the perfect affordable meal after a long day exploring, and it is super healthy too. Also, if you are in Ubud, make sure you check out the fresh coconut ice cream. Sophie from the TruTravels team stands by that it was "the best ice cream [she] has ever tasted!"
Best for "nightlife": Bali
Yes, I know you might be shocked at this one, but hear us out! We LOVE a night out where your hotel is never that far, you can dip at any point, and you're near a beach too (extra points if you are already on one). Bali has some incredible nights out, whether it's Old Mans, Finns or The Barn in Canggu, ANYWHERE in Uluwatu or at The Blue Door in Ubud. Also, if we are including the next-door island, Gili T, then Indonesia HAS to take the top spot. This island is beautifully wholesome during the day, and then at night, you have the option to dance the night away under the stars - could anything be better or dreamier than that? No, no, it couldn't!
However, we do, of course, have to say Thailand's nightlife isn't too shabby either. Whether you want to go to the iconic Full Moon Party, hit up Bangkok's Khaosan Road, or party in the north, you are never far away from a bucket and a dancefloor.
Best for wholesome vibes: Bali
We LOVE wholesome vibes, and we still stand by the fact that it is SO underrated. If you are in search of night markets, sunset cocktails, incredible meals and more in the evening, then Bali is for you! Think evenings sat on the beach watching the surfers do their thanggg, sipping a bintang or mojito or maybe at a local restaurant trying some local food! You can even catch fire shows in the evening too, which combine wholesome fun and culture - the perfect mix!
So there you are! Hopefully, this answers your questions about Bali vs Thailand. We will never say one is better than the other - we love them both! It's also crazy to compare an island to a country, so we've been as fair as possible. The bottom line is that they are both incredible, and they are iconic and the OGs for a reason. If you still can't decide where to go, flip a coin. That's the quickest way to decide, and once you have explored one, it's time to start planning your trip to the other!
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