What is the best destination for a visa run from Thailand: Da Nang, Singapore, or Manila/Cebu?

Oct 6, 2024
a month ago
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
I’m about to have to do a bounce, and I was planning on visiting another country close by, but after doing some in-depth research, it’s not exactly what I though it was, so I’m opening up my options. I have it narrowed down to Da Nang, Singapore and Manila/Cebu. Is there a consensus among the group of the best destination? Sorry if it’s off-topic, but I need to figure this out ASAP. Not too worried about the budget, within reason, and I can stay as long as I want. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Edit. Basically going because my visa is up. I enjoy Thailand, and thought the Phils were comparable, but the comments online make me now think different. The usual activities... sightseeing, tours, nightlife, etc. I'm not hard to please. Just something interesting to do to bide time before returning here. 
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation explores which nearby destination is best for a visa run as the user needs to decide between Da Nang, Singapore, or Manila/Cebu. The majority of commenters advocate for Da Nang due to its affordability, lively culture, and food scene, alongside sentiments about the less favorable aspects of Manila and Cebu. Singapore is noted for being clean and modern but expensive. Overall, many believe that Da Nang offers the best balance of experiences without high costs, while concerns about the visa process for each destination are also discussed.
Ray **********
Danang for sure,English spoken everywhere,great food and wonderful people.you can a bus a online
William *********
Cebu is a shithole
Pam *********
Da Nang
Simona ***********
Cebu è meravigliosa
Pierre ********
Loved Da Nang, Bana hills and Hoi an...
James **********
Fill out the forms correct and picture clear.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Yep. Looks like it's Vietnam! In the processing of booking a flight and filling out the Evisa forms now. A little anxious buying a flight before visa confirmation. If it gets denied at the last minute, not good. Guess I'll just have to do a quick land border run.

And I may even stop by Kuala Lumpur or Siem Reap on the way back...some good comments about those also. The consensus def favored Vietnam though! Thanks for the reply.
Pete **********
@Eric *****
girlfriend just got back. I couldn't go due to passport and visa issues. But she brought me back some coffee. 😋
Danny *****
Da Nang is the way to go. It's very cheap, fun and food is great. Singapore is farther and much more expensive (2-3x) for all things and Manila/Cebu is a further flight. Apply for a Vietnam eVisa (~3 days) and you should be good!
Samuel ********
Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks for the reply. I actually wanted to stay for upwards of a month or two wherever I went not just a border bounce and right back here. I’m reading a lot of good things about Vietnam so I think that will be one of the choices. Several of people have mentioned Siem Reap too. Will do some reading up on there. I’m on no time constraint schedule so I have as long as I want to explore. Kuala Lumpur also sounds intriguing also. If I don’t get to some of the places you mentioned this time before returning to Thailand, I will try to add them before I leave to go back home. Then Japan, South Korea, and possibly Hong Kong will be in the mix too. For this bounce and return. I wanted to keep it relatively close.
Pobs *****************
@Eric *****
if you can get to Java Boropodor(?) LOL is magnificent at sun rise
Aaron *******
Da Nang is ok. Cambodia is ok. Poipet is fine if you actually go into Cambodia to Siem Reap and visit Angkor Wat, stay a several nights. Siem Reap was nice, plenty of nightlife and things to do. Phenom Penh was fine also. The Philippines is great outside of Manila. So I wouldn't erase Philippines from my list. Fly into and out of Cebu or Angeles City, if possible. AC has ok nightlife, not much else. But AC is good for using airport to fly to different islands for cheap. Same with Cebu, and Cebu has a lot more to see and do. Islands to see, Boracay, Bohol, Palawan, well literally thousands. Honestly, if you're looking to explore SE Asia, I wouldn't totally avoid a country, just because of SM posts, take several days or weeks and go explore for yourself. Just going 1 day, and never leaving the airport seems a waste to me, and a red flag for immigration authorities.
Anthony ******************
Your Country of Passport?
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Anthony *****************
US. It seems like Vietnam doesn’t include us with a visa exemption. I wonder why?
Anthony ******************
They do if you hold an APEC Card
Slim ***
@Eric *****
Because the US doesn't allow Vietnamese to enter the US without a passport. (They used to allow US passport holders in Visa exempt)
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Slim **
if they can get to the US southern border, they don’t even need a passport! 😅😅😳😖
Slim ***
@Eric *****
please don't bring your country's politics with you 🙏
James **********
I have done a quick trip to KUL . Cheap! Overnight no hotel, never left the airport
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *********
I actually think I want to stay a while and explore there from what I’m reading. Same with Da Nang if I haven’t cut it too close for a visa.
James **********
@Eric *****
no visa required and you can stay cheap in town,
Ian *********
Love da nang! Cheap beer decent cheap accommodation and nightlife.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ian ********
I’m sold. Would 2 weeks be enough time to obtain a visa? Anywhere in Thailand to get one? Thanks.
Ian *********
@Eric *****
uk passport can stay 45 days! If you get bored hop on the train to Hue takes 2 hours along the stunning coast about £3.

Nice place very historic but nice bars and clubs too.
Felipe *******
I went to Manilla. Has a lot of malls. Otherwise, I would not return.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Felipe ******
yea, plenty of malls in Thailand. Not much for shopping anyway. The only things I don’t like in Thailand is difficulty with the language to a certain extent and can’t get used to the food. The Phils I thought was the best the best of both worlds, they speak English and more ‘Westernized’. Didn’t realize the crime was so bad and it was run down as much as people say. Surprising for such a big city.
Felipe *******
@Eric *****
i agree with the communication. The food is very westernized in Phil and it's starting to show with all the plumpies walking around. Much healthier choices in Thailand. Crime, you are on point. Thailand you can walk any street at any time and not have a problem. Amazing.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Felipe ******
agreed, I had reservations before coming here but now I have none. I have really enjoyed and hate to have to bounce. The Phils have pretty much been deleted from the list. The comments seem to back up the impression I was getting. Da Nang is sounding good, if I still have time to get a visa.
Felipe *******
@Eric *****
heard good things about Vietnam. Never got there.
Leon ********
Da Nang ( Hoi An)
Mathew *********
People will just give you their biased personal opinions on their experiences in these places

Do what I done, don’t ask a single soul what their thoughts and recommendations are, just book it up and go and have your own journey and make your own mind up about it

I’ve been to all the places you’ve mentioned and I have my own personal opinions on it, I wouldn’t put these on other potential traveler’s as everyone’s standards and expectations are different
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Mathew ********
my main thing is the crime. I can filter through the opinions part. If I was in the US I would just wing it and give it a go. Over here, if you get into a fight with a pickpocket or someone trying to rip you off, we don’t get the benefit of the doubt. I’d rather not be a “Locked Up Abroad” episode. There has been some good feedback.

You don’t look like you’d be a target, lol, but what was your impression of the crime. And which did you prefer? We prob have a few of the same tastes. I’m not going for museums or shopping.
Mathew *********
@Eric *****
I never had any issues in any of the locations you mentioned, kept myself to myself, always be careful and vigilant when travelling.
Matt *********
@Mathew ********
Yes, I stopped giving advice, because people forget it all once they arrive, plus everyone has their own individual experience irrespective of guides, social media, well meaning friends...
Cathryn *********
Singapore is expensive. I avoid the Philippines at all cost. To me, a solo female traveler, it feels unsafe and I don't care for the food. I love Da Nang, good food, quite affordable and feels safe.
Duncanc **********
@Cathryn ********
I agree - adamant is ideal

But Vietnam is far from safe. Every country in the region has problems with safety and security.

Mind you - so do Europe and USA. I guess it is part and parcel of living in a big city
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Cathryn ********
was it difficult getting your visa?
Cathryn *********
@Eric *****
The only countries I ever had difficulties getting a visa for have been China and Pakistan. Singapore, and the Philippines I just got something at the airport, and Vietnam I did online prior to arrival. I travel on a US passport.
Marshall ********
Singapore is clean and upscale.
Bill *********
@Marshall *******
Yes, exactly to my tastes!
Mark *****
Cambodia better than those choices.... I've lived extensively in all of them !
Julane *******
If you have a sense of adventure, you can fly down to Singapore... then take a bus to Malacca then KL and fly to Borneo (Kota Kinabaru or Sarawak). Or fly from KL to Langkawi. Or fly to Medan and visit Lake Toba, or other interesting villages in that region.

Or fly to Indonesia and see the many interesting islands including Sumatra or Sulawesi or Flores.

I've been dozens of times to Philippines, mainly for diving. Cebu quite a few times but only as jump off point for Dumaguete, Malapasqua, Sequior, Bohol. Palawan is nice to. I'm not crazy about Manila. Food is not a reason to visit though.
Pete **********
Da Nang would be the easiest and probably most affordable
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pete *********
is the visa process easy or did I cut it too close? Can I obtain one in Thailand? Thanks for the reply.
Pete **********
@Eric *****
oh the Vietnam visa. United States citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam. Since 1996, US citizens flying into Vietnam can pick up their Vietnam visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam's international airports. To streamline the process, Americans traveling to Vietnam should complete their Vietnam visa application online before their trip
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pete *********
I was on the Vietnam visa site last night and it seems pretty comparable to the Thai E visa site. Once I get my accommodations and flight, I think it will be fairly easy. Fingers crossed.
Pete **********
@Eric *****
oh and go Gators.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pete *********
yea, not looking great in Gainesville lately. Disappointed in Napier, he doesn’t seem to have the answers. At least FSU sucks ass worse than UF! Makes it easier to take.😅
Pete **********
@Eric *****
good luck.
Pete **********
@Eric *****
you will get another 60 day visa exemption when you come back.
Andrew *******
Forget manila ..
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Andrew ******
that seems to be the consensus here. Actually glad I asked.
Alan **********
Penang George town
Neale *********
Manila is a dirty chaotic dump. I wouldn't go there
Michael *******
Singapore is great to visit for a few days, but after that pricey and same same and a beer is 5 times the price of Thailand, Bali if you havent been is a nice Island, if you plan to do PH then prepare to travel to one of the islands, Boracay is great, Palawan is also nice….Manila is crowded and traffic horrible……Cambodia and Vietnam also have lots to offer……
Simon ********
Danang for many reasons, but for visa run airport is low stress and a cheap fast grab ride from everything. Easy to get high quality accomodation for peanuts, lots of food options. Singapore is ok if you have money to burn. Cebu and Manila are both pretty awful especially Cebu.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Simon *******
The Phils are rapidly losing appeal. Lots of good comments on Da Nang. Now I am just wondering if I time for a visa. Have I cut it too close?
Simon ********
@Eric *****
you can get an agent today expedite one if so. Try Lynn visa in Da Nang
Jeffrey *****
@Eric *****
When are you planning on leaving for Da Nang? I just applied and received the evisa. Took exactly 3 working days to receive.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jeffrey ****
was on there last night and it was pretty comparable to the Thai Evisa site. I think I’ll be all right with it. Thanks.
Bob **********
If you have money go to Singapore it’s fantastic if you like temples go to Siem Reap and if you want to just slum around Phnom Penh or Philippines
Tony **********
What kind of stamp? Where are you now? What is your timeframe?
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tony *********
what kind of stamp? I’m in Thailand now about to exhaust my 90 day Non O, so have to bounce. Figure I’d visit another country, maybe 2 then return here. I have no timeframe. Just retired and sold my house. No responsibilities, no bills and no time constraints! 😁
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
When I first got here the exhange was $3650+ baht per $100 USD. Not long after it was in the $3300’s. Thinking it would rebound I held off, then it got to under $3200. I was in Chiang Mai then Phuket, so I don’t know if it’s lower there but by my calculations, at would have been it would have been a bit more than $21,900 US when I got here. But even now if it’s up a bit to $3300 baht, that’s almost $24,250. Then when you withdraw, the USD I would think would be back up and you’d get hit again on the way out. Is my math correct? I figured I’d just wait until it stabilized and we get a bump in November, hopefully. Even if I did the exemption, that’s still 90 days per with w extension. And there’s the tax issue also until that explained in more detail if it even happens. I can hold out til it all works itself out.
Tony **********
@Eric *****
why no go for the 1 year extension?
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tony *********
that was my intention until the USD took a nose dive right after I got here. Plus the new Visa exemption is pretty appealing also. And there seems to be some confusion on the new tax implications if you’re here over 180 days so I was waiting to see how that played out. I’m gonna try to get a bank account if it’s possible in my last two weeks then when I decide on the retirement visa, I could already have the money transferred in before I get here.
Tony **********
@Eric *****
if you apply abroad, you only need the money in Thai bank 2 months before extension application. Dollar has gone up some in the past few days. Note that on 800k, the 2฿ exchange rate difference amounts to $50.
Adrian *****************
Danang,enough to do,incredible food great beach,hoi an is 30 minutes drive,it’s half the price of Thailand,the coffee is amazing as is the craft beer,excellent accommodation for 1000 baht or less,I went there for my last visa run and didn’t want to leave,also cheaper to get there than your other choices
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Adrian ****************
Da Nang seems to be the consensus. Now wondering if pivoted too late and have time to obtain a visa? Any insight on have difficult it is?
Adrian *****************
@Eric *****
new visa on arrival for a lot of countries,do a quick search to find out if you qualify
Adrian *****************
If not the online evisa takes 3 working days I believe
David ***********
I go bt ferry to Langkawi from Satun. Nice place for a few days break and border bounce achieved
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@David **********
never even heard of those. 😁 it's a bounce plus more places to check of the bucket list. I love Thailand but as long as I'm this far from the US, I'm not opposed to seeing as many places as are worth the trip. I have no time constraints as I just retired. No bills, no responsibilities and no time limits. 😁
David ***********
@Eric *****
Langkawis great for a few days but not sure id live there. Incredibly beautiful in areas (hire a bike or car) but a little run down in others. Love my few days there each year. I take my motorbike down to Satun from phuket, leave it at the ferry terminal and get 1 hour ferry over
Inigo *********
I live in Cebu. I like it here. I'd recommend it only if you're planning to stay in the Philippines for a while. And I'd certainly recommend it over Manila in that case.

There's a direct flight from Bangkok Tuesdays and Sundays, I believe, although it's overnight at some unsociable hour.

It's a fun little city with loads of incredible places to visit, all a short hop by plane, bus, or ferry.

If you're not a seasoned traveler and/or have never been to the Philippines before, I do recommend you do some research beforehand though. It ain't Thailand out here.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Inigo ********
that's my issue. I was looking forward to going before I started researching... the crime and how run down it is mainly. I would say I'm pretty seasoned. I have no time limits on staying anywhere, I'm pretty wide open. I thought Manila for a few days then Cebu. Big fear is getting into a fight with a thief and getting in even worse trouble. Rather not even get put in that situation. What would research be for, or the things I've already mentioned, been doing a lot of reading, that's what gave me second thoughts, but I know how people overreact also. Thanks for the reply.
Inigo *********
@Eric *****
well, I've been here for close to a year and haven't yet been robbed or got into any situation where I felt unsafe. There are some sketchy areas but I just don't go there. And when I do venture anywhere unknown or potentially dangerous, I just don't carry anything much worth stealing. A second, cheap phone is handy for that reason.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Inigo ********
yep. Already doing that here. My new iPhone stays in the room for WiFi calling back home.
Jeffrey **********
Cebu
Deb ********
Stayed a month in Da Nang, not a fan....
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Deb *******
thank you. What about Ho Chin Mihn city, or would skip the country altogether?
Deb ********
@Eric *****
Well that's a good question. I did enjoy Ho Chi Minh city, great art galleries, lots to see and do. The experience crossing roads with 100's of motorbikes going around you either side was definitely up there! Would I go back... probably not. The reason I was put off Vietnam mainly was the dishonesty, almost everyone without fail tried to shortchange me. I do say tried, because they didn't get away with it. But it made my experience tiring....
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Deb *******
not a big fan of that. My biggest fear is getting into an arguement/ fight over something like that and then it really gets bad for us. Rather just steer clear of the possibility. Too many other places to go to. Do you a preference on other cities?
Deb ********
@Eric *****
Well I loved Sth Korea. The food is amazing, lots to see and do, people are lovely, easy to get around. Very safe too.

Japan is also amazing, one of the only countries to have kept a lot of it's culture. Again lots to see and do, great people, lots of bowing 😁, I loved it there because there were things there you would only see in Japan.

Singapore is always a good place to visit for a short time. Hope that helps.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Deb *******
yes. SK and Japan are definitely on the list as well before I eventually head home. This trip is a sightseeing vacation/ border bounce from Thailand so I wanted to remain relatively close to return. On my way back to the US, I could visit SK then Japan and fly JAL home, I flew with them here from LAX. It would also be a direct flight as there was a layover there on the way to Thailand. Is Japan as expensive as a lot people suggest?

Then consensus on here seems to be pro Da Nang, although I would watch out for the issues you brought up. Do you know how difficult the Visa process is and how long it takes? Thanks again.
Deb ********
@Eric *****
No, I didn't find Japan expensive at all. I paid $10NZ a drink but they were free pours, so I didn't need many! Food (takeaway and restaurants) was a bit disappointing, but home cooked food which we experienced was different and delicious.

Re Vietnam all I can say is do the visa process right because if you don't, like I saw some people do (they thought it would be quicker to do there), you can add hours and hours on to getting through immigration.

It does take a bit longer to get through immigration than other countries, but like I said, if you get the paperwork right it's easier.
Pobs *****************
Try Malaysia or and Indonesia?
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pobs ****************
I’m intrigued by KL reading up on there.
Pobs *****************
@Eric *****
loved KL
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pobs ****************
not opposed to them, just not a lot written about them. What's make them appealing. I'm not opposed to traveling anywhere that is worth the trip. I have a wide open schedule.
Pobs *****************
@Eric *****
its like Thailand 50 odd years ago...love Langkawi Malaysia, I travelled from Sumatra to Bali and loved it.
David *******
I would go Cebu if I were you. 👍
Steven *********
Danang. Not singapore
Linhof *********
I booked a flight to danang and the visa process kept getting h7ng up, I ended up losing the flight
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Linhof ********
that would lower it on the list. I forgot about the visa vs other cities. So you never got to go? What was the issue with your visa? Are they difficult to get? I prob need to book a flight asap as I need to leave in a little over 2 weeks.
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
my Thai friend went. He Said it was super busy and hot
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I would get the visa first before book the flight
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Linhof ********
any idea how long it takes? My visa here is up in 16 days…

The consensus on here seems to be Da Nang.
Slim ***
@Eric *****
************************************************
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Slim **
I was on there last night and it seems pretty comparable to the Thailand E visa site. Once I get my accommodations and flight taken care of, I think it’ll be fine. Thanks.
Slim ***
@Eric *****
Cool beans 😁

Safe travels 💯🙏
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I ended up driving to Cambodia
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Linhof ********
I was gonna stay for upwards of a few weeks to a month. Not sure how immigration is going to react to multiple quick border bounces with the new exemptions being lengthened. I’ll probably be fine, but I’m good with exploring other cities in the meantime, especially seeing how I’m 10,000 miles from home anyway. I might have waited too long on the visa deal…I’ll do checking tonight.

Have you been to Kuala Lumpur? Some interesting arguments being made for going there too…
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I have been to VN a few times, but a long time ago
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
looks like you are USA as well. Bummer we need a visa for VN
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Linhof ********
I may have waited too long to pivot. I’ll look into the visa process there. Lots of good comments about there. If I don’t go this time, I’ll go before I head back home. Thanks.
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I have never been to KL. Wife wants to go, but I have never seen a YouTube that made it look interesting to me. I have never been to luang prabang, so that look interesting to me. Everyone seems to love Japan too . Lots of options.
Linhof *********
I has 2 days left on my stamp
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I would apply tonight. They ask for your hotel etc, so maybe book on agoda for something that can be canceled. Flight prices should be fine until after. I would look at Laos too, if you plan to stay a few days . That was my plan, but my friend talked me into vn
Linhof *********
@Eric *****
I am us, se we can't get visa on arrival. Yep, I lost the trip. their visa website is terrible. Back and forth with their mistakes.
Reidar **********
Lived in all 3 cities, DaNang your best choice.
Ryan *******
Can you not go to Cambodia or Malaysia?
David *******
@Ryan ******
Proper dump Poi pet ..!
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ryan ******
I can, but researching, those seemed to be 3 that came up the most. I'm really wide open to anything. Thanks for the response.
David *******
@Ryan ******
Malaysia 🤢🤮
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@David ******
not a fan?😁
Ryan *******
@Eric *****
Malaysia is pretty decent to fly in and out you don't need a visa. And flights are decent price. By flying you get 60 more days now. I've flown to KL and then back was easy..

FYI just pay attention to the time cause Malaysia is 1 hour different. So make sure you don't go later
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ryan ******
yea, from what I’m reading KL has made the cut.
David *******
Nah. I been trapped in flea pit hostal a month due to visa issues... Beer to damned expensive , people in general seem kinda sour faced ....
Ryan *******
@David ******
sound like Cambodia poi pet
David *******
@Ryan ******
Maybe my current difficult predicament is souring my opinion a bit ... I do know I prefer Penang to KL. I'm sure Langkawi would be good. The fat 90 day hassle free visa on arrival is useful ... The price of beer is not 😂. Though I think Langkawi duty free so it's half the price there.

Then you can ferry over to Thailand from Langkawi reasonably cheap. Koh lipe even ...
Ryan *******
@David ******
I hear penang is nice to visit. Hhahah beer I guess yeah I assume Malaysia is a bit more compared to Thailand.
David *******
@Ryan ******
110 bht a

500 ml can outta
****
🫣 small

330 ml can 80 bht approx
Bryan ******
hoian 30 min from danang historical city very interesting nice ambiance
Edward ******
I adore Danang but not the best time of year for there. Kuala Lumpur is one of my favorites. I split the year between Thailand Vietnam and Malaysia.
Pete **********
@Edward *****
yes raining a lot
Edward ******
@Pete *********
when I was in KL last year at this time you can almost predict a big storm at 330 daily. Then by 5 alls clear. But the infrastructure is infinitely better there. The roads and streets are easy to traverse and drain rapidly. In areas there are skywalks that connect buildings so the weather isn’t even an issue.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Edward *****
KL has now made the list. Sounds intriguing. Plus I may have waited too long to pivot…is the visa process for Vietnam difficult?
Edward ******
@Eric *****
are you a US citizen. It isn’t that bad. I’ve done it 3 times but the website is buggy. I’ve succeeded but it takes 3-5 business days. Be careful with the application. Some countries can do visa on arrival but US citizens need an EVisa.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Edward *****
what is it about the time of year? I'm in Thailand during the rainy season😁. Is another city a better choice, HCMC or Hanoi? What is the allure with KL? You would put it over the other? Thank you for the response.
Stéfan ********
@Eric *****
Hanoi is more charming than HCM. I know both very well as I lived in Hanoi for a year and return to HCM yearly for a conference.
Edward ******
@Eric *****
Kuala Lumpur is pretty consistent weather wise. I like it a lot. But I love Danang the most but you’re heading into the rainy season in Danang. I’m currently in Prachinburi Thailand, Cambodia in November and Danang in January for the best weather of the year there. I love Danang. Probably my favorite but not great season now. I was in Kuala Lumpur thus time last year. Most of the day is fine and they typically have a heavy rainstorm about 90 minutes a day. But even if there is rain there the infrastructure handles it. Much more modern and built up.
Ian **********
They are all worth a visit so do them all and let us know what you think
Jonnie *******
A trip to Penang might be worthwhile,
Chris *********************
Da nang every time
Phil *******
I had 5 weeks traveling around Philippines and loved it, apart from Manilla.
Boran *****
Singapore is extremely dull. Just depends what you’re looking for.
Graeme *******
@Boran ****
I lived and worked in Singapore for 10 years, far from dull!! It is expensive but lots of great restaurants and bars/clubs and shopping for high end luxury brands
Julane *******
@Graeme ******
I lived in SG for 13 years. Loved it and still regularly go back. Some food there you can't easily find here. But I explored mainly by bicycle which allowed me to see a lot more than where tourists go. Great bike paths now too. Was just there a few weeks ago. They keep improving. If folks dont like "dull", then rent a bike! Eat in the suburbs...stay away from tourist spots.

But 2000 Baht for a hotel wont get much nowadays.
Inigo *********
@Graeme ******
"shopping for high end luxury brands"

You spelled 'dull' wrong...
Boran *****
@Graeme ******
Well I’ve lived in Asia for 26 years done a fair bit of biz in Singapore. Compared to the rest of the region it’s pretty dull imo.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Boran ****
I don't like dull. Singapore sounded like a really modern and infrastructure oriented place and no crime. Even better than Thailand.
Michael ********
@Eric *****
Singapore is actually great for a few days plenty to do depending upon your likes. Some great interestingcwalks
Boran *****
@Eric *****
Lol well that’s exactly my definition of dull to me. Horses for courses. I love historically interesting chaotic Asian metropolis. 👍
Graeme *******
@Boran ****
I am traveled all over Asia and yes there are sone great places out there but for me Singapore was never dull, I made a lot of local and expat friends so was always going out and loved it there. Now Pattaya is my home so all good
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Graeme ******
what particular area would you recommend? Thank you.
Graeme *******
@Eric *****
depends what you want, I lived in the city center but Orchard area is very popular, I liked hanging out at Clarke Quay for drinks and around marina bay sands.
Boran *****
@Graeme ******
Sure I know it well. But did t compare to a night in BKK or even HK. You’re a Pattaya lad….Cnon those spots on Singapore are grey compared to where you live now no? 👍
Graeme *******
@Boran ****
different life in Singapore, I had a great expensive account when working..

I actually live in Jomtien, but still travel at least once a month and normally visit bkk for a couple days every month but not for work anymore.
Boran *****
@Graeme ******
Horses for courses. You listed luxury brands, restaurants bars etc…yep well to me that’s dull and can be found in any Asian capital outside of places like Dhaka etc. I lived in HK for a few years which had all that and to me was more interesting than Singapore. Nepal is more interesting to me than both places and I’ve lived there to. I guess it just depends what you like. You live in Pattaya. I’ve been based in Thailand since the start of my Asia oddesy 26 years ago and never would consider living in Pattaya. Singapore has no meaningful sense of age & also chaos to it, which are the two traits I enjoy Asian cities. Different tastes. 👍
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Boran ****
so is Singapore a go or no go for you? Not big on luxury shopping, can't fit anymore in my suitcase😁. HK intrigues me also. Should I add them to my list? I'm not opposed to going to as many places as are worth the trip. Just retired and sold my house, so no bills, responsibilities or time limits!
Nga **************
@Boran ****
Singapore is one of my favourite SEA cities nowadays. It's got a whole lot better in the last 10-15 years. The best museums in SEA, chances to see world class theater, so many learning opportunities everywhere to learn about the local life vs only tourism stuff. Each neighborhood has its own vibrant characters. Super fun, varied, and iconic architecture, especially in terms of reflecting local adaptation and culture, and integrating climate change response. I find Singapore much more fun, easier to manage, and more revealing than, say, most places in Japan. It's a surprising place bc I usually prefer cheap, uncrowded, underdeveloped places.
Boran *****
@Nga *************
Sure it’s good if you like near clean and almost sterile atmospheres. I’ll give you the museums are pretty good…but tyevj divisible collections don’t match anything in course countries and Ancient Asian art is my business.
Nga **************
@Boran ****
the weird thing is I typically prefer chaotic and primitive, not sterile and organized. I'd hated on Singapore all these years, especially after spending a lot of time there in my younger years. Singapore was very boring, nothing but a sterile environment and shopping. But it's not just that anymore. I do love all the museums, not just arts, as they're very well curated and educational. I enjoyed how they curate these collections in their own way, with some focus on regional comparative stuff. Singapore is also THE destination for SEA contemporary artists thanks to the number of independent galleries and SG government-sponsored programs. So many of my artists friends from Viet Nam got to use Singapore as their career launching pad. I gotta say of all SEA countries, things I experienced in Singapore recently reflect the most regional mindset. It's also, to me, a sobering case of what type of governance works best for our cultural context in the region.
Boran *****
@Nga *************
That’s fair enough. I actually have sold two pieces to the ACM in Singapore it is a great museum. I love to feel the age and ancient culture of a place around me & the chaos that can bring. I agree Singapore is great place but just for me rather dull. A lot of guys in my business move there when its time to bring up a family and raise kids. 👍
Doug ********
Da Nang would be my choice. Cebu is also quite ok, and everybody speaks English. Singapore for a more western, luxury experience. If you are a foodie, Da Nang or Singapore.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Doug *******
how difficult is getting a visa? Have I cut it too close? I was set on the Philippines until reading the stories. Now I’m having to pivot.
Doug ********
@Eric *****
visa on arrival for Singapore & Phillipines, e- visa for Vietnam, with a fairly short turn around these days I hear.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Doug *******
I'm not opposed to trying them all.😁 Thank you for your reply.
Darren ******
I lived in both HCMC and Singapore. I would go to Vietnam for a number of reasons including it’s cheap with plenty to do.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Darren *****
how difficult is the visa process?
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Darren *****
DaNang, HCMC or Saigon? The only neg I'm reading is the language barrier. I have Google translate.😁 What didn't u like about Singapore? I could actually do both. Thanks for the reply.
Darren ******
@Eric *****
HCMC was formerly Saigon. Plus side for Vietnam, including Da Nang, is that I found the majority of locals friendly and helpful. Singapore is great but I didn’t feel a sense of community. My time in Vietnam I made loads more friends than I did in Singapore. It’s an individual thing, if you are into hanging out with expats and have business then Singapore is for you. But if you are a tourist looking to explore and see things that are still relatively cheap Vietnam is the place.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Darren *****
not sure why I wrote Saigon, I meant Hanoi. So which is the place to go for the best entertainment, tours, western food, and reasonable hotels. I like modern with Skytrains, subways, etc if available. Grab, Bolt, etc work too. Not into too much socializing. Just like to go and explore.
Ken ***********
All are good cities for a holiday.

Manila is a big city with some pockets of poverty. BGC and Makati are nice areas. The infrastructure is not as extensive as Bangkok and food has many fast-food outlets and some good local dishes. Manila can be chaotic.

Cebu along the beaches is nice but the downtown area is just average. Food options the same as Manila.

Da Nang is a chill town along a nice beach. Good food options between Vietnamese and Western. Accommodation is a good value and taxi transport (grab) is inexpensive.

Singapore is an amazingly modern and clean city. Accommodation is very expensive. Hawker centers are a great value for food and the subway is fast and efficient.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ken **********
this is exactly what I have been reading. Original choice was the the Phils, but people were going overboard on how dangerous it is, and I'm not as worried as much about that as I am getting into a fight over it and then it gets much worse.

Heard good things about DaNang, except for the language barrier.

Singapore sounds awesome, but yes on the costs.

Do you have a preference overall.

Is the crime as bad as it seems to be in the Phils to make it a pass?

As far as accommodations, I'm paying $2000 baht/ night in Thailand, that should be in the ballpark for other countries also?

Thank you for the detailed response.
Ken ***********
@Eric *****
I just returned from Da Nang last month and that would currently been my recommendation. Siem Reap, Cambodia and Luang Prabang, Laos are also interesting
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ken **********
is the visa process difficult? I may have cut it too close pivoting this late.
Ken ***********
@Eric *****
it takes 3 to 5 business days to get online
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ken **********
are HCMC and Hanoi good options as well?
Christopher *******
@Eric *****
Yes, apparently they take Karaoke serious in the Philippines. Ho Chi Minh City has nothing to see but pretty women. Da Nang does not have the nightlife but a lot more see and do. Hoi An
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Christopher ******
They all think they are gonna get hired by a famous band like Arnel Pineda did with Journey!😅😅 But no kidding, that dude can Sing!

How difficult is the visa process in Vietnam, have I cut it too close?
Christopher *******
Eric Alan extra at airport for quick visa.
Ken ***********
@Eric *****
yes it depends on what you like, HCMC is a huge city of 9 million but has many things to do and not expensive. Hanoi has a population of 8 million and is more compact but great coffeehouse and restaurants and sites to see.
Christopher *******
@Eric *****
Not a guy to get in a fight. In Cebu up early to scuba dive. Went by a karaoke bar still open at 6am. Heard a melody I knew but not the words…. Then I realized, it was John Denver, Take Me Home. I smiled and giggled a little. They did not like that. It end with my knife in one man’s foot and the other man ran off with my scuba bag. Every thing is filmed on the streets. Police investigated & I got my passport back. I asked for my knife back but the policeman laughed, said “ I was a funny guy”. Da Nang would be my pick. A concrete jungle that will kill person over a joint scares me the most.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Christopher ******
they came at you for laughing?? So the concrete jungle is the Philippines as a whole and a pass? That term also is referred to as New York City as well as horror stories about crime, and dirty and run down, but I love it there!😁 Is Da Nang the best choice, or is HCMC or Hanoi in the running as well?
Mark ********
Da Nang
Darren *******
They're 3 very different places so telling us what exactly you like would help a bit.
Eric ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Darren ******
I added an edit to the post. Thank you.
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