Phuket Prices

« The first question that came up was: "Where can I exchange money?"

Exchange rates vary quite a bit, so you need to find the most favorable one.

When we arrived at the currency exchange booth with the sign "Exchange" intending to swap dollars for baht, a local who overheard us said: "Guys, just a bit further there's an exchanger with a better rate."

This was a family with a child, heading to the beach, and they showed us the right direction while wishing us a great vacation...

Later we found out that it’s better to bring cash and already exchange it for baht here. Still, we decided to keep the dollars with us.

Our $700 was enough for 4 days 😄. We didn’t specifically bring a lot since we were assured that food in Thailand is cheap, and many thought $1,000 would last until the end, but it turns out we weren’t even close.

I’ll be honest, I panicked when we found ourselves without cash in a foreign country 😅.

In the morning, I decided to call a local bank to inform them of our whereabouts in Thailand to avoid any issues with my card payments.

The call saved me from waiting for a response from the operator and stressing out 😂😅😂.

Then the operator from the Thai bank, probably, told me that any transfers are incredibly fast.

That was just awesome 😱.

What to do? I remembered there's an online chat in the app. I started a chat with the operator.

After that, we had no problems making payments in cafes and stores. The only thing was that in some places, they may ask to charge a specific amount when paying by card.

For example, it could be $8 or $10 👌. And the respective card payment rate wasn’t very favorable for us.

Also, in some cafes, they add 3% on top of the bill amount when you pay by card. So having cash is definitely better than any kind of tricks.

On the main photo @elena___dmt
I’ll tell more about her later 😉😘

In conclusion: bringing dollars to Thailand is more advantageous than euros, and it's even better to bring cash instead of dollars.

P.S. Still have questions? Just ask ✍️ »

« Cheap Thailand. Here's my daily budget.

Gone are the days when the baht was 1:1 with the dollar. Currently, the exchange rate is about 1:30. While the baht has become more expensive, the dollar is worth less. Yes, friends, those who have lived here for over five years confirm that in principle, prices haven't changed; it just feels different for us. 🤔

I usually live on street food and restaurant meals. 😂 I tried living budget-friendly and comfortably; of course, I chose comfort, and now I’ll explain why.

1) Budget style.
Breakfast and lunch purchased on the street at food stalls costs about 80 baht total (approximately $2.40). Dinner in any Thai café or a local spot can set you back about 150 baht ($4.50).

I moved around on a bike; renting a motorcycle varies, averaging about 200-250 baht per day (around $6-$7.50) plus fuel.

I stopped living this way after some run-ins with the police for driving violations. 😅 Pretty much, street life can be tricky; for a peaceful drive, it's best to use a car — safer and less hassle since they don't usually check for bike licenses, but bikes can get stopped often (they might turn a blind eye if you pay a little "fine"). 😂

2) Comfort style.
That's where the real fun begins.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a nice restaurant can cost you about 800-1000 baht ($24-$30) per person.

A taxi ride usually costs around 480-600 baht ($14-$18) for a day.

A good massage, depending on what you're looking for, typically ranges from 800-1000 baht ($24-$30).

Various snacks like fruits during the day can easily add up to 200-300 baht ($6-$9).

There's nothing particularly noteworthy to report on shopping; prices are pretty much the same as back home.

Rent ranges between 800-1000 baht per month, depending on your choice of accommodation.

Utilities could run you around 1000 baht ($30), while internet typically goes for around 1000 baht as well.

You can do the math, friends, and that's without including extras, sources, etc. So there you have it, cheap Thailand! 😂 »

« The zoo in Phu Quoc leaves much to be desired! The price is $30 per person! Just a waste of money. I was here before! But I don't know why I'm back again. Though the kids really enjoyed the animals. So our visit at $8 was quite cheap! In other places, it's definitely much better. In Pattaya, it's a hundred times better than here in Phu Quoc.

But the main thing is that the kids were impressed by how grandpa fed the crocodile! 😄 »

« What a contrast with the previous post 😄, but here we can't skip the Thai vibe, because right now I'm going to share with you some Thai cosmetics purchases 🛒 and general Thai shopping experiences 🛒.

Let's be honest, my friends 🌟❤️ I’m sharing these not just for you, but also for myself.

Just a heads up, this is only the first post on this topic, the carousel shows only 10 photos 🖼️, while I have about 30 positions to show... 🔥. I'm sharing this only because I'm genuinely buying these for myself and also as gifts for friends! Not the first time and not the first year 🤌. Just my favorites 🥰.

1️⃣ Coconut oil from the BOOTS chain. Price: $8 for 400 ml.
2️⃣ Hada Labo lotion with hyaluronic acid. 7-11 price: $3.50.
3️⃣ Hair care with argan oil. Price: $4.25 at Boots.
4️⃣ Lip scrub. 7-11 price: $2.25.
5️⃣ Inhalers and nasal balm. $4.25 for 6 at 7-11. Tiger balm ranges around $1.75 at 7-11.
6️⃣ Hand wash gel. $2.05 at 7-11.
7️⃣ Hydrating creams from $0.85 to $1.50 at 7-11.
8️⃣ Lip balms. Prices vary: $0.60 at 7-11, Tropicana $1.50 to $2.50 at 7-11, and a popular brand around $2.25 at 7-11.
9️⃣ Toothpaste. Pink variety $1.50 at 7-11, yellow-green $1.10.

How do you like such a selection?! Have any of you tried any of these yet? And although I didn't plan this, I have to say... once again, shopping truly amazes me! 🛒✨ »

« IGTV recorded a bit crooked, that's why I'm leaving a photo here. The video will be on YouTube soon :) A quick info from the previous video: - the price for bikes is around $4.50 - $10.50 per day. It depends on the duration and the place where you rent them. Well, and new bikes (scooters) - We were stopped by the police. Local laws are pretty strict about this. In any case, you'll be sure to show only our country's rights.

That's it. Everything else will be in detail in the video on YouTube soon :) »

« The most expensive way to get around Phu Quoc is the taxis and tuk-tuks... a ride of about 1 km costs around 6 dollars and up... that’s approximately 2500 tenge 😩

They say these prices are due to the local mafia, which has monopolized this business. »

« Comparing 👇
Renting villas or apartments offers an exceptional experience compared to hotels 🍃

On the plus side - kitchens are available, washing machine, and there’s a separate bedroom (if you're lucky).
On the downside - further from the beach, no breakfast options, and lack of daily housekeeping.

On the Nai Harn beach, there are only 3 hotels and two of them are 5-star, with prices for a room currently starting at $100 per night.

Renting an apartment in the same area goes for about $45 per night, while a complex will be about 500-700 meters farther from the beach.

For a family of three, it’s better to rent 3 hotel rooms or one villa with a private pool.
Prices for villas start from $140 per night.

In summary - check the carousel 👀

According to my calculations, staying in an apartment is more cost-effective in the long run.

How does it work for you? From your experience ✏️  »

« If you happen to be vacationing in Phuket for more than two weeks and want to explore the island further, a boat trip to Ph Phi Islands is definitely the way to go. 🌴

1. Two hours on the boat and you're there.
2. Soft white sand beaches.
3. Crystal clear waters.
4. Daily parties.
5. The ticket cost is around $30 for a round trip. You can often find cheaper options with transfers from your hotel.

Have fun! 🍹 »

« In Thailand, getting around without a scooter or car is pretty much impossible. Sure, you can use tuk-tuks or bikes – taxis too – but they tend to be pricey and not very convenient. A tuk-tuk ride averages around 6 dollars. 🏍️ You can rent a bike from almost any hotel, and they generally are cheaper than rental spots at about 6 dollars, but the conditions of these bikes often leave much to be desired; the brakes might not work, or the speedometer could be broken. Rental services are everywhere, and they usually require a passport as a deposit, though some might accept photocopies. However, if you go that route, they might take a cash deposit; in our case, they asked for 9 dollars. The bikes available start around 7 dollars and can be brand-new. 🚲 You can rent a car in Thailand starting from about 30 dollars per day. I must say, there are often issues with the quality of the cars. On our second day, we rented this amazing car, and it cost us 60 dollars for a day. Make sure the atmosphere and vibe of the place suit your taste! »

« We walked into the motorcycle store, and so far there hasn't been a salesperson around to offer examples of helmets. A helmet like that costs about $200. »

« VAT REFUND OR HOW TO GET YOUR MONEY BACK.
VAT REFUND is the return of VAT, a tax of 7%, which is included in the price of most goods and services in Thailand. Naturally, street massage parlors and markets are not included; refunds are possible only for goods purchased in stores that are authorized to issue the corresponding documents.
WHO CAN GET A REFUND?
✅ You must not be a citizen of Thailand. Also, your stay must either be stamped for 30 days or not exceed 180 days on a tourist visa.
✅ You must not be a member of an airline crew working in Thailand.
✅ You need to exit the country through an international airport.
✅ You have purchased goods from a store marked "VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS."
✅ You can present your purchases, the VAT refund certificate, and the original receipt.
HOW TO SHOP TO GET A REFUND
✅ The goods must be purchased no later than 60 days before departure. That is, if you’ve been in Thailand for 180 days, you can still get a VAT refund, but not for the entire duration of your stay. Shop just before you leave! »

« Gas stations??? Never heard of them. There are plenty of places all over the island. They sell gasoline in alcohol bottles. Prices range from $0.85 to $1.15. It's convenient because you'll need fuel while exploring the island. »

« No matter how much I love traveling solo, it's always more fun, productive, and interesting with company. Today we rented a boat for about $23, and a lovely Thai woman took us out for an hour during sunset, patiently enduring our antics as we risked falling into the water while taking photos. 🌅🚤😊 »

« At Chaweng Lake, every evening you can play soccer, basketball, and volleyball. Price: free. »

« In Thai apartments, washing machines are very rare. Mostly, people do their laundry in outdoor machines like these. Payment is made in coins of 10 baht. »

« In Phuket Town, there’s a night market on weekends. They sell clothes, bags, souvenirs, and Thai food. In short, this market can be described as "everything for 3 dollars" @ Naka Night Market. »

« Thai cosmetics can be found in pharmacies and souvenir shops. We stopped by one such shop on Naithon Beach. A lot of people rave about the shampoo and lotion featuring this Thai man, so definitely consider giving them a try 👌 »

« 2$ per kilo »

« Prices for Apple products at Central Festival »

« All happiness for 100 baht :) »

« In Laguna, you can ride a Segway. The price starts at around $12 for 15 minutes. The area of Laguna is perfect for both riding and enjoying the views! 😊 »

« The 100 BAHT SHOP just opened not too long ago, but there are always plenty of people around. That's because the price of items or souvenirs never exceeds 100 THB. It's a great place to pick up cute little things to remind you of your vacation in Phuket! »

« "Have you ever bought such fragrant soap?! Right now, we have a piece of mango in our bathroom 😍 It's an excellent souvenir. They offer 3 pieces for about $3." »

« Continuing to share the magic of Thai cosmetics and ointments! The Unison cream is a healing ointment for all types of skin injuries. It helps heal wounds, cuts, abrasions, and burns faster. It's hypoallergenic and does not cause irritation. It quickly tightens and dries out the wound, which is especially important in the humid Thai climate. It costs about $0.75! 🌿 »

« We found an amazing exchange rate for the dollar to baht! 🎉 Yellow exchange booths forever! »

« And also crab claws and royal shrimp for... 100 baht for 3 pieces!!!))) (about $3) »

« Well, and finally, wishing everyone a great evening!!! ;-) At the market near the hotel, the finest quality is 1.10 USD per kg. »

« "Mom can, mom can even make breakfast upside down! 😊 You can try this too! On the island, there is the "Upside Down House." I would recommend visiting it as part of your tour of other attractions, since it’s quite small and takes about 1 hour to explore. The cost for adults is 7.50 USD, and for children, it’s 4.50 USD. It’s open from 10 AM to 6 PM. There's also a maze and rooms with quests, but those are definitely not for little kids! 😄" »

« A bouquet of such beautiful orchids at Tesco costs 69 baht. »

« The funny bracelet seller, not a word in English, just mumbling to herself, tried to sell us bracelets for 3 dollars, but then dropped the price to 1.50 dollars. In short, she convinced us!))) »

« On Kamala Beach, there are plenty of umbrellas, take as many as you want, just $2.80 for the whole day. »

« A massage salon in Thailand 👍 is a must-visit for some relaxation: foot massage, Thai massage, oil massage, aloe vera massage... Prices range from $8 to $15 for 1 hour 👆 you can choose any salon, and sometimes you encounter true massage goddesses 👑. I recommend the foot massage at Kim's on Rawai beachfront and Nui’s amazing Thai massage at Nok's salon 😉. »

« Super rich!!! Thai baht!! :3 »

« We took a trip around the islands, spending the entire day from 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM, costing $54 per person, but it was an amazing adventure! :) Definitely worth trying at least once! We ate, drank, snorkeled, and hiked up mountains! We only visited 3 out of 9 nearby islands, and we were totally exhausted :))) but still had a fantastic time! »

« How rich am I? See you soon, Thailand! »

« I decided to write about something very important for girls, the holy grail of beauty) About cosmetics, beauty salons, procedures, and massages.

Phuket is an incredibly developed resort. There are three large shopping malls, two cinemas, football and golf fields, swimming pools, wake and kite stations, a water park, and more. Naturally, for girls, there’s everything or almost everything. The simplest massage salons are located in the tourist area. Here, you can get a foot massage for about 7-9 dollars, a Thai body massage for 7-10 dollars, and an oil massage for 9-10 dollars, along with many other procedures. By the way, manicures and pedicures are also available at these salons, priced around 4-6 dollars. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a good master, and to be honest, I’m a bit skeptical about the cleanliness of the tools. So, I prefer to get my manicure and pedicure done in the mall salons. Girls, the selection of nail polishes there is just stunning! All the colors of the rainbow. There are many masters, but during peak season, you might have to wait your turn. Or you can feel like a Hollywood star while enjoying a simultaneous manicure and pedicure. The salons offer shellac, nail extensions, and the most beautiful designs. In short, the girls are simply talented!

The prices for procedures in the salons are, of course, higher than in the massage salons (around 7-9 dollars for manicure and pedicure), with shellac being around 6-12 dollars. But the service and quality are on another level.

In Thailand, there are a decent number of clinics focused on weight loss. In Phuket, in the largest mall, Central Festival, there’s an entire floor dedicated to clinics, most of which offer weight loss procedures. There are also clinics for plastic surgery, laser hair removal, and various facial treatments. Honestly, they offer so much that I’ve yet to dive into all these beauty treatments in my two years here!

Spa... As you can imagine, Thailand is incomplete without spas. They are large, modern... Beautiful! The procedures are all comprehensive, such as scrubs, massages, masks, and wraps. Spa treatments are a bit pricier, with an average cost for a 3.5-hour program being about 75 dollars. »