Bali Thailand: Which is Better for You?

Derek Dellinger portrait.
Derek Dellinger
Review author
19.09.2022 12:44
last update

Among the most popular Asian holiday destinations are Bali and Thailand. Why? Well, because they both offer blissful warm weather, delicious authentic food, reasonable prices, and views to die for. So whether the destination is Bali or Thailand, visitors will experience the best of culture, beaches, and cuisines that one hopes for when on vacation.

However, there are quite a few differences people don't consider when planning their trip, which could make or break their experience.

With that said, if you want to know whether you should choose Bali or Thailand, this detailed comparison might help you make the decision.

Boat in Thailand.

Best Hotels & Resorts in Bali

Best hotel
Ubud
Hoshinoya Bali
5
Pool
Airport transfer
Free WiFi
$732.00
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Bali
The St. Regis Bali Resort
5
Gym
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
$796.00
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Bali
The Laguna
5
Airport transfer
Free WiFi
Pool
$305.00
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Bali
Hanging Gardens of Bali
5
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
Non-smoking
$912.00
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Ubud
Villa Lagoon
4
Free Wi-Fi
1 pool
Non-smoking rooms
$467.00
Price per night from
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Best Hotels & Resorts in Thailand

Best hotel
Bangkok
Capella Bangkok - SHA Plus Certified
5
Non-smoking
Free parking
Gym
$621.00
Price per night from
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Bangkok
The Siam Hotel (SHA Extra Plus)
5
Free breakfast
Airport transfer
Free WiFi
$430.00
Price per night from
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Surat Thani
KC Resort & Over Water Villas
4
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
$803.00
Price per night from
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Surat Thani
500 Rai Khao Sok Floating Resort
4
Internet access
Air conditioning
Pool
$415.00
Price per night from
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Phuket
Angsana Laguna Phuket
4
Free WiFi
Dining venue(s)
Bicycle rental
$145.00
Price per night from
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Surat Thani
Panvaree Resort
3
Refrigerator
Air conditioning
Free WiFi
$123.00
Price per night from
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Kanchanaburi
The Float House River Kwai Resort
4
Slow river water attraction
Luggage storage
Free parking
$127.00
Price per night from
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Ko Phayam
The Blue Sky Resort
3
Babysitting services
Free WiFi
Complimentary breakfast
$101.00
Price per night from
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Thailand
Kwai Tara Riverside Villas Resort
4
Free WiFi
Refrigerator
Restaurant
$101.00
Price per night from
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Bangkok
Le D'Tel Bangkok
4
Pool
Airport transfer
Non-smoking
$65.00
Price per night from
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Best Time to Visit Bali and Thailand

So, when comparing the general climatic features and characteristics, Bali is more unpredictable than Thailand. Bali's weather is dependent on the months. For example, the monsoon weather changes happen between October and April, whereas from May to September, it is dry. However, even when the rainy months arrive, there are several days in the middle where you will experience clear skies and sunny days. Also, apart from Northern Bali, Bali is mostly quite humid and hot. Thus, try staying at a resort where there is a pool.

In Thailand, you will experience three proper seasons:

  • Hot
  • Wet
  • Dry

The best time for someone to plan their Thailand trip is anytime between November-February. The hot season is from March-June.

The wet season is from July-October and then comes the cold season from November-February. However, Thailand's monsoon season isn't as easygoing as Bali's, so you need to ensure you plan around it.

Bali vs Thailand: Average Hotel Price

The price of the hotel rooms does vary according to the months you are going in. For example, if you go during the extreme seasons when it is very rainy or hot, you will not have to pay as much.

Moreover, if visiting during holiday seasons (such as the summer or Christmas), you can expect hotel prices to be relatively high as that is when most people will be traveling.

Bali vs Thailand water.

Things to Do in Bali and Thailand

There are several different aspects to consider in the Bali versus Thailand debate, so let's take a look at them in more detail:

Food

One of the most important things for most travelers is food. So, if you or the people you are traveling with are picky, the best place to try out is Thailand, as there is a lot more variety there.

Moreover, Thai cuisine is mainly favored by tourists, and if that isn't your cup of tea, you can easily find Western food as well.

It isn't like Bali doesn't cater to those who prefer Western cuisines. However, those wanting to explore local foods will find fewer choices. Which Is Better: Bali Or Thailand? The clear winner is Thailand, due to the abundance of choice and the general taste of food.

Nightlife

Bali has quite a sophisticated nightlight scene, as many international artists and well-renowned DJs play at Bali's rooftop bars and extravagant beach clubs.

For those whose focus is on the nightlife, then they can find several party hotspots in Legian and Kuta in Bali. And those wanting to venture to beach clubs can explore Canggu and Seminyak.

For those on a budget, Thailand's nightlife would take the cake. Go-go bars are practically everywhere, and you can get buckets worth of alcoholic drinks for an unbelievable price.

However, people consider Thailand to have a slightly 'shady' scene than Bali. However, it is easy to find something for everyone. Phuket is the best city for pub-crawlers looking for a fun night on the town. Which Is Better: Bali Or Thailand?

Bali has to be the winner in this case, as its nightclubs are more sophisticated, safe, and not as pricey as the ones you will find in more American or European countries.

Beaches

So, Thailand is a collection of islands, where you will find every kind of beach, almost all of which will be near perfect.

They are also immaculate, and the water is calm, so Thailand is ideal for those wanting to dive or snorkel.

Also, it's easier to find spots on the beaches where you have privacy and can enjoy without being trampled on. Bali has several beaches, and Canggu, in particular, is perfect for amateur surfers. Professional ones can check out Uluwatu.

Moreover, you can find both volcanic black and white sand beaches in Bali. Though they will look stunning, you will likely see more rubbish thrown on the sand and in the water. Which Is Better: Bali Or Thailand? So, if you want the perfect beach experience, where you find cleanliness and safe diving and snorkeling opportunities, then choose Thailand. However, if you're going to go diving during your trip, Bali might be the better choice for you.

Rocks in Bali.

Conclusion: Which is Better Bali or Thailand?

Overall, both Bali and Thailand have their pros and cons. Bali's seasons are more bearable, whereas Thailand's are more extreme.

But overall, Thailand is generally cheaper and geared chiefly towards tourists, making it easier to navigate.

FAQ

Is Thailand or Bali better?

If you are looking for beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, Bali may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more diverse range of activities and attractions, Thailand may be a better option.

Is Bali cheaper than Thailand?

Bali is generally more expensive than Thailand when it comes to accommodation and food. However, Thailand may be more expensive when it comes to activities like diving or elephant rides. It really depends on what you want to do while you're traveling.

What is the difference between Bali and Thailand?

The main difference between Bali and Thailand is that Bali is an island located in Indonesia while Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia. Bali is well-known for its unique Hindu culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife while Thailand is known for its friendly locals, delicious food, and bustling cities.

Is the weather better in Bali or Thailand?

This is a question that gets asked a lot, and it's tough to give a definitive answer because both Bali and Thailand have their own unique weather patterns. In general, Bali has a more consistent year-round climate with warm temperatures and relatively little rain, while Thailand has distinct wet and dry seasons. So, if you're looking for warm, sunny weather, Bali is probably a better choice. However, if you don't mind a little rain and are interested in experiencing Thailand's unique seasons, then Thailand may be the better option for you.

How far is Bali from Thailand?

Bali is approximately 1,000 kilometers from Thailand.

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