Thailand on a funds isn’t simply attainable, it’s the place your Rand turns into a rockstar. In case you’re a South African dreaming of tuk-tuk rides in Bangkok, mango sticky rice in Chiang Mai and seaside events in Phuket with out blowing your funds, this one’s for you. Listed here are 10 Rand-friendly issues to do in Thailand underneath R500
Thailand on a funds: Self-Care
1. Hour-long Thai therapeutic massage | R150 – R300
A correct Thai therapeutic massage isn’t only a therapeutic massage, it’s an Olympic sport. Count on elbows, knees and stretches that’ll go away you questioning when you’ve signed up for yoga. Hit the native parlours (not the lodge spas) for one of the best offers.
Professional tip: All the time test the worth board exterior and keep away from anybody whispering “particular therapeutic massage.”
2. Road meals feast | R100
Thailand’s streets are one big buffet. You’ll be able to smash a full meal, pad Thai, satay, spring rolls and mango sticky rice all for underneath R100. Head to locations like Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown) or Chiang Mai’s night time markets.
Professional tip: Skip the vacationer traps and observe the locals.
Do you know? 7-Eleven toasted sarmies have a cult following. Cheese and ham by no means tasted so good at 2 am.
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Thailand on a funds: Getting round

3. Trip a tuk-tuk | R20 – R80 (Relying on distance)
No Thailand on a funds journey is full with out this adrenaline rush. However hear, haggle such as you’re at a downtown market in Jozi otherwise you’ll pay vacationer tax.
Professional tip: All the time agree on the worth earlier than you hop in.
4. Take a neighborhood bus or songthaew | R10 – R50
These transformed pickups are like Joburg minibus taxis however friendlier. Nice for hopping round city with out burning money. Simply be prepared to leap off whereas it’s nonetheless rolling.
Sightseeing in Thailand on a funds

5. Go to a temple (or 5) | Free to R150
From Bangkok’s Wat Arun and Wat Pho to Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep, Thailand’s temples are beautiful and normally low-cost or free.
Professional tip: Costume respectfully: cowl shoulders and knees otherwise you’ll be shopping for an emergency sarong.
6. Go to Chatuchak Market | Entry free
Asia’s greatest market with 15,000 stalls. You’ll discover every thing from pet squirrels to pretend Yeezys. Even when you go away empty-handed, the people-watching is priceless.
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Discover one of the best of Thailand’s seashores

7. Sip cocktails on the seaside | R80 – R150
Blissful hour is your new faith. Snag a Chang beer or coconut cocktail on Koh Samui or Phuket, toes within the sand, pockets intact. Insider tip: seaside bars typically allow you to carry avenue meals. Rating!
8. Go island hopping | R400 when you cut up prices
Group longtail excursions hit dreamy islands like Phi Phi or James Bond Island. Seize a couple of new mates out of your hostel to separate the boat value. Don’t overlook sunscreen – it’s costlier than the boat.
Thailand: Enjoyable Lovers Paradise

9. Watch a Muay Thai battle | R300 – R500
Suppose UFC, however sweaty, loud and with a crowd that’s 10 occasions rowdier. Head to native stadiums (not vacationer bars) for the actual deal.
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10. Get a customized memento | R200 – R400
Whether or not it’s an elephant-print tee, handmade jewelry, or a dodgy tattoo (don’t do it), you’ll go away with tales. Cut price laborious, and stroll away in the event that they snort – it’s a part of the sport.
Low-cost Flights & Reasonably priced Resorts in Thailand
Thailand on a funds begins earlier than you even pack. Take a look at our Rand-friendly Thailand vacation packages!

FAQs: Thailand on a Finances
Is Thailand secure for South Africans?
Sure! Keep watch over your valuables, keep away from dodgy tuk-tuk gives at 3am and also you’re golden.
When’s the most cost effective time to go to?
April to June and September to October are the most cost effective months. Rain? Perhaps. Reductions? Completely.
Do I would like a visa?
For stays underneath 30 days, nope. For longer, test the newest guidelines earlier than you go.
Can I exploit my financial institution card?
ATMs are in every single place however pack some money for markets and small spots. Additionally, inform your financial institution you’re travelling or threat the “card declined” drama.
How a lot money ought to I carry?
About R400 – R600 per day is a stable funds when you’re not residing like a celeb.
Thailand on a funds isn’t simply doable, it’s ridiculously enjoyable. Between massages, cocktails, temples and tuk-tuks, you’ll come house richer in tales (and possibly barely sunburnt).