Vietnam and Laos among Southeast Asia’s best-value destinations

August 04, 2025 | 09:25

(0) user say

Vietnam and Laos have been recognised by UK-based travel publication Time Out as top budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia, where travellers can enjoy great food, comfortable accommodation, and rich cultural experiences without breaking the bank.

According to Time Out’s latest ranking of affordable travel destinations on July 24, Vietnam secured second place, with average daily expenses estimated at just $20.80.

Vietnam and Laos among Southeast Asia’s best-value destinations

The magazine praised Vietnam for offering some of the cheapest beer in the world, with local bia hoi costing between $0.20 and $0.50 per glass, and filling street food meals, such as banh mi, priced at less than $1.00.

Accommodation was also highlighted for its affordability and quality, with highly rated hostels and guesthouses (scoring 8.0+ on Booking.com) available from just $3.20 per night.

Beyond basic costs, Time Out noted Vietnam’s cultural richness and accessibility, such as traditional water puppet shows for $4.00, along with free access to many temples and museums.

Local transport was described as both affordable and convenient, with public buses priced under $0.50, and app-based motorbike rides like Grab bike typically under $1.20. Longer-distance travel remains budget-friendly, with train tickets from Hanoi to Hue costing just over $28.

Laos topped the list as the most affordable country in the region, with average daily expenses at just $16.80. Budget accommodations in Luang Prabang and Vientiane are available from $4.40, and even lower in Vang Vieng, starting at just $2.00. Popular street foods such as sticky rice and grilled pork skewers can be enjoyed for $0.80 or less, while local beers are priced under $1.00.