July panic - no-go to Bangkok, Thailand, Vietnam

[Bitteplease]

Planning a holiday further afield than our normal jaunts and looking to capitalise on cheaper flights early July (due to exam year; taking other 2 kids out early) and so looking at potentially spending a few days in Bangkok before then heading EITHER to a beach destination in Thailand OR on to a bit more exploring in Vietnam followed by a beach resort there.

So, questions are:

• Bangkok - OK in July (happy with heavy/short downpours)?
• Thailand - only some areas seem hot/dry this time of year but we're keen on something that's not too crowded and on a lovely beach
• Vietnam - what would be a good 5-day itinerary followed by 4-5 days on the beach? Again looking at where would be best to go in July

Any advice gratefully received.

I spent months travelling around South East Asia, personally I would avoid Bangkok. It really doesn’t showcase the beautiful Thai culture and unless you’re going for the night time activities, there’s not much to do.

The Thai beaches are stunning but commercialised, my all time favourite place to visit was Vietnam, the people, food, scenery were stunning. It was reasonably priced and because it’s long and thin, you can do excursions to the beach, city and mountains within one holiday. My favourite City was Hoi An, I would also suggest doing Ha Long Bay, it’s breath taking. There’s lots of history to learn about the Vietnam war, check out the Cu Cui tunnels.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual then Cambodia is also great because there’s so much history. Angkor Wat at sunrise/sunset is a must see

I tv in that time of year is ok but I'm sure someone else will come along soon.

We're going at Easter 9 and 12 year old, 3 nights Bangkok, 3 nights Chang Mai then 8 nights Koh Chang.

I think it depends how long you're going for and what you want to experience as to whether it's worth going to Vietnam at the same time or saving it for another visit!

I'd go to Vietnam and avoid Bangkok completely! Fly into Hanoi, spend 3 days in the city before heading to Halong bay for a night or 2 on a boat around the islands. Then train down to Hoi An for the beach and sights of Hoi An. If you have time stop at Hue or take in De nang's beaches

Thank you so much, great advice!

I've just had a quick look and not much in terms of flights to Hanoi, even with 1 stop. How woudl you do it?

Can you go via HK? It’s hot that time of year but worth a day or two.

Central Vietnam is good in July. The North and I think south can be very wet in July. Look up the specific weather for different areas. Rain in Vietnam isn’t just a heavy shower!

But in Hoi An and Hue you have lots to do. Lovely beaches in Hoi An (An Bang, ‘Hidden Beach’) , visit My Son , go on an eco fishing tour, cycle round the fields and herb village, the town is fascinating, great place to eat every evening. Visit Da Nang , marble mountain. Take a taxi over the Hai Van pass. Hue: the citadel, the tombs, hike in Bach Ma national park, visit the barmy Ba Na Hills theme park. The Night Market in Hue.

Koi Samui is gorgeous and not too busy.

Could you get flights to Ho Chi Min? We flew direct to HCM then got cheap internal flights to Hanoi.

I lived Vietnam. Hoi An for architecture and food, Hanoi and HCM for big city culture, Ha Long bay mini cruise is a must. Lots of beaches. We did a day trip to Mekong delta from HCM too.

Amazing tips, thanks!

@ranoutofquinoaandprosecco
just jumping in this thread as this is what I’m thinking of doing next year with my 3 children. We might have to do summer holidays.
how was your trip? That’s the route I’m looking at.
although this thread is making Vietnam seem appealing too!

Personally I would save Vietnam for when you can go at a different time of year. The south and north are very wet and it would be a shame to miss them.

For Thailand, the eastern islands (Ko Samui & around) are not bad weather at that time. Other places will be wet but could still be fun as not beach dependent.

I prefer Vietnam but would pick Thailand over Vietnam in July. Kids will love Thailand too.

What about Malaysia, Borneo, Indonesia… July is a good month weather wise in these places?

Bangkok only for a day /night.

Malaysia is my favourite place.

Thailand lovely but not as nice as Malaysia

Veitnam. Loved it. But again pick a place or do a tour.

Hi all,

Going to Bangkok in July for a few days. If you've been how hot can it get? Just trying to prepare myself

Hanoi is fantastic. Well worth a good few days there. Also Halong Bay but choose trips carefully as some trips can be very busy and touristy.

Cambodia is amazing. The temples of Angkor Wat are incredible.

I'd also suggest Singapore as a stop off. Beautiful city and an interesting contrast. The Gardens by the Bay are fab. Singapore offers good flights to Vietnam and Cambodia too.

Whatever you decide, enjoy your visit.