The Kingdom of Thailand, a top backpacker destination since lovely Leo starred in The Beach. I went to Thailand twice over the course of my travels. They were very different trips, one being with the girls doing the islands and the other with Jordan as we explored Bangkok and the North.
Accommodation – South East Asia can be very cheap for backpackers. Hostels run from $2-11/night for a bunk. When I went with the girls, we found an air bnb (kind of in the middle of nowhere) that was $30/night with 2 rooms, 2 bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, tv and private pool. You can also ball out for the same price you would pay for a hotel in America.
Food – It’s easy to eat on a backpacker’s budget in Thailand. You must you must you must try a night market. Once it cools down at night, the streets come alive with vendors selling wares and the most amazing food for cheap. You can eat a whole meal with juice (not beer) for under $5.
Transportation – Grab is a popular taxi app like Uber that is available in most places. If you take a public transportation bus, you just get on and someone comes around to collect payment as the bus travels, and then you get a ticket/receipt. Obviously public transportation is the way to go for the full local experience. I have many great stories from taking the public bus. Another option in more touristy areas is a Tuk Tuk! This is great fun if you’re on vacation. Tuk Tuks can be expensive as they are for tourists only, so don’t be afraid to barter your cost down or you will get ripped off. You can also rent a scooter for a day or two, however technically you need an international drivers license to do so. We did not, and I doubt many people do, but it’s a good idea if you plan on doing this a lot. Jordan and I also both have motorcycle licenses and years of practice riding.
Suggested daily backpacker budget – $30 USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating at night markets, and using local transportation. If you plan to live like a Queen in the Kingdom of Thailand, you will have to increase this cost significantly.
Hello Sa – wah – di
Thank you (female speaker) Kop – kun – ka
Thank you (male speaker) Kop – kun – krub
Noodle Pad
Soup Tom
Spicy Ped
Very Mak
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