Confused Yeah? Let’s figure it out!!
Factors |
Andaman Islands |
Vietnam |
How to Get There? |
Fly into Port Blair, then take ferries to other islands |
Fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City with direct international flights |
Visa Requirements |
No visa for Indian nationals; foreigners require a RAP (Restricted Area Permit) |
E-visa required |
Best for |
Beach lovers, water sports, nature enthusiasts |
Culture, history, diverse landscapes, nightlife |
Currency |
Indian Rupee (INR) |
Vietnamese Dong (VND) |
Budget for 7 days (per person) |
₹50,000 – ₹60,000 |
₹60,000 – ₹80,000 |
Best Time to Visit |
October – March (pleasant weather) |
October – April (cool & dry season) |
Main Attractions |
Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, Cellular Jail |
Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An |
Food |
Seafood, Indian cuisine |
Pho, Banh Mi, Vietnamese Coffee |
Activities |
Scuba diving, snorkeling, ferry rides, trekking |
Street food tours, historical sites, nightlife |
Safety |
Very safe for solo travelers & women |
Generally safe, but petty theft in crowded areas |
Languages Spoken |
Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, English |
Vietnamese, French, English (in urban areas) |
Both Andaman and Vietnam offer thrilling activities for adventure lovers. Whether it's diving into the deep blue sea or trekking through lush landscapes, both destinations have something exciting to offer.
Known for its pristine beaches and marine biodiversity, the Andaman is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
🏊 Scuba Diving & Snorkeling – Havelock, North Bay, and Neil Island have stunning coral reefs and marine life. Prices start from ₹3,500 for snorkeling and ₹4,500 for scuba diving.
🚤 Jet Skiing & Banana Boat Rides – Popular in Port Blair and Havelock Island, offering high-speed fun over turquoise waters.
🐚 Sea Walking – North Bay Island and Havelock offer this unique activity, where you walk on the sea bed surrounded by fish (₹3,500 onwards).
🛶 Kayaking through Mangroves – Paddle through lush mangroves at Mayabunder and Havelock Island, perfect for nature lovers.
🌄 Trekking – The trek to Elephant Beach and Mount Harriet National Park is ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
🎣 Game Fishing – Experience deep-sea fishing around Havelock and Cinque Islands with professional guides.
Vietnam is a mix of mountain treks, water sports, and cultural adventures.
🏍 Motorbike Adventure on Ha Giang Loop – One of Vietnam’s most scenic routes, offering breathtaking mountain views.
🧗 Trekking in Sapa – Explore the lush green rice terraces and interact with ethnic hill tribes.
🌊 Caving & Kayaking in Phong Nha – Home to some of the world’s largest caves, including Son Doong Cave.
🛶 Mekong Delta Boat Tours – Ride through floating markets and mangrove forests for an immersive experience.
🏄 Surfing & Kiteboarding in Mui Ne – The beaches in Mui Ne offer perfect wind conditions for kitesurfing.
🌆 Ziplining & Rope Courses in Dalat – Thrill-seekers can enjoy high-altitude zip lines through dense forests.
Both destinations offer unforgettable adventure experiences—choose Andaman for marine thrills and Vietnam for diverse landscapes and adrenaline-pumping treks! 🚀
Andaman’s food scene is a mix of fresh seafood, Indian flavors, and a touch of international influence. Being a coastal destination, seafood lovers will find plenty of options, from grilled fish to prawn curries. Popular dishes include:
Top Restaurants in Andaman:
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its balance of flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. From iconic street food to fine dining, there’s something for every traveler. Some must-try dishes include:
Top Food Spots in Vietnam:
Both Andaman and Vietnam offer rich culinary experiences, but the choice depends on whether you prefer fresh seafood and Indian coastal flavors or the fragrant herbs and balanced flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
The Andaman Islands are deeply rooted in colonial history, indigenous tribal cultures, and marine heritage. Visitors can explore a range of historical and cultural sites.
The indigenous tribes, such as the Onge, Jarwa, and Sentinalese, have lived in isolation for centuries. While tourism does not permit interaction with these tribes, their rich cultural heritage is preserved through museum exhibits.
Vietnam’s cultural heritage is influenced by its dynastic history, colonial past, and unique traditions that blend Chinese, French, and Southeast Asian influences.
Vietnam’s culture reflects strong Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian influences, along with French colonial architecture and cuisine. Festivals such as Tet (Lunar New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival highlight the country's vibrant traditions.
Both Andaman and Vietnam offer fascinating glimpses into history and culture. While Andaman highlights colonial struggles and indigenous heritage, Vietnam presents a blend of ancient dynasties, war history, and diverse ethnic traditions.
The best time to visit the Andaman Islands is October to March. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing, water sports, and beach activities.
Vietnam’s best travel season depends on the region you are visiting:
Expense Category |
Andaman Islands (INR) |
Vietnam (INR) |
Flight (Round Trip) |
8,000 – 20,000 |
15,000 – 30,000 |
Accommodation (Budget to Luxury) |
1,500 – 15,000 per night |
800 – 10,000 per night |
Food & Dining |
500 – 2,500 per day |
400 – 2,000 per day |
Local Transport |
300 – 2,000 per day |
100 – 1,500 per day |
Activities & Sightseeing |
5,000 – 15,000 (including ferry rides) |
3,000 – 12,000 |
Shopping, etc. |
2,000 – 5,000 |
2,000 – 7,000 |
Total Budget (Approx.) |
40,000 – 80,000 |
50,000 – 75,000 |
✅ Light cotton clothes, beachwear, swimwear, and flip-flops
✅ Sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection
✅ Waterproof bags for valuables and electronics
✅ Snorkeling or diving gear (optional, as rentals are available)
✅ Power bank and waterproof mobile cover
✅ Basic first aid kit, insect repellent, and personal medication
✅ Identity proof and travel permits (RAP for foreigners)
✅ Light clothing for the south; warm layers for the north (especially in winter)
✅ Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and hiking
✅ Universal travel adapter and power bank
✅ Raincoat or umbrella (if traveling during monsoon)
✅ Travel insurance documents and visa papers
✅ Local currency (Vietnamese Dong) or international debit/credit cards
💡 Book flights and ferries in advance to save on last-minute hikes.
💡 Use local transport (buses, shared taxis) instead of private cabs.
💡 Try street food in both locations for an authentic experience at lower costs.
💡 Look for discounts on activities by booking online.
Whether you choose Andaman for its tranquil beaches or Vietnam for its cultural diversity, planning your budget wisely can ensure a hassle-free trip!
If you choose Andaman, understanding the ferry system is essential:
Route |
Duration |
Approximate Cost |
Port Blair → Havelock |
1.5 – 2 hours |
₹1,200 – ₹2,500 |
Havelock → Neil Island |
1 hour |
₹900 – ₹1,500 |
Port Blair → Neil Island |
2 hours |
₹1,200 – ₹2,000 |
The Andaman Islands have a mix of ferries, private boats, taxis, and two-wheelers for local transport.
🚢 Ferries & Cruises:
🚖 Taxis & Auto-Rickshaws:
🏍 Two-Wheelers & Bicycles:
🚲 Cycling & Walking:
Vietnam has a well-developed transport system, including buses, trains, taxis, and motorbikes.
🚇 Public Transport (Buses & Metro):
🏍 Motorbikes & Scooters:
🚖 Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps:
🚂 Trains & Domestic Flights:
Tip: In both Andaman and Vietnam, booking ferries, taxis, and rentals in advance can help avoid last-minute price hikes! 🚖
Choosing between Andaman and Vietnam depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.
If you love diving and untouched nature, Andaman is your best bet. If you enjoy rich culture, varied landscapes, and budget-friendly travel, Vietnam is the way to go. Either way, you're in for a memorable journey!