Thailand on a price range isn’t simply doable, it’s the place your Rand turns into a rockstar. When 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 price range, this one’s for you. Listed here are 10 Rand-friendly issues to do in Thailand underneath R500
Thailand on a price range: 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. Anticipate elbows, knees and stretches that’ll go away you questioning when you’ve signed up for yoga. Hit the native parlours (not the resort spas) for the perfect offers.
Professional tip: At all times verify the worth board outdoors and keep away from anybody whispering “particular therapeutic massage.”
2. Avenue 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 comply with 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 price range: Getting round

3. Journey a tuk-tuk | R20 – R80 (Relying on distance)
No Thailand on a price range 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: At all times 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 price range

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 gorgeous 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 faux Yeezys. Even when you go away empty-handed, the people-watching is priceless.
Visiting Thailand as a household? You may like: Household-Pleasant issues to do in Thailand
Discover the perfect of Thailand’s seashores

7. Sip cocktails on the seaside | R80 – R150
Comfortable 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 usually allow you to carry road 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 worth. Don’t overlook sunscreen – it’s dearer than the boat.
Thailand: Enjoyable Lovers Paradise

9. Watch a Muay Thai combat | 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.
Like unconventional issues? You’ll love these 8 off-the-beaten-track locations in Thailand
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. Discount onerous, and stroll away in the event that they chortle – it’s a part of the sport.
Low cost Flights & Inexpensive Resorts in Thailand
Thailand on a price range begins earlier than you even pack. Try our Rand-friendly Thailand vacation packages!

FAQs: Thailand on a Funds
Is Thailand protected for South Africans?
Sure! Regulate your valuables, keep away from dodgy tuk-tuk provides at 3am and also you’re golden.
When’s the most affordable time to go to?
April to June and September to October are the most affordable months. Rain? Possibly. Reductions? Completely.
Do I want a visa?
For stays underneath 30 days, nope. For longer, verify the most recent guidelines earlier than you go.
Can I take advantage of my financial institution card?
ATMs are in all places 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 strong price range when you’re not dwelling like a star.
Thailand on a price range isn’t simply doable, it’s ridiculously enjoyable. Between massages, cocktails, temples and tuk-tuks, you’ll come dwelling richer in tales (and perhaps barely sunburnt).