6 Travel Hacks to Help You Save Money in Bangkok

Bangkok, a popular shopping destination among Singaporeans, offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and retail therapy.

Recently, I visited Bangkok with a few friends, eager for some much-needed R&R and a bit of a shopping spree. During my three-day stay, I met a Singaporean businessman who had once led a prominent entertainment hub in Singapore. He shared his fascination with Thai culture, particularly the practice of visiting various temples to pray for success in business. Another memorable stop was the Chang Siam 100 Baht Shop, which was packed with tourists. I even bumped into another Singaporean who was lamenting how crowded the shop was, and I echoed his sentiment.

Having last visited before the pandemic, I was also struck by the prevalence of cannabis stores. Neon weed signs are now a common sight in Bangkok’s tourist hotspots, with dispensaries on nearly every corner and vendors offering cannabis-infused drinks and food. You see, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis in 2022 for medical purposes. However, the market appears to be almost unregulated, raising public concerns about crime and misuse.

Despite these changes, Bangkok remains a worthwhile destination, especially if you’re looking to save money. On that note, here are some travel hacks I discovered during my trip:

#1: DOWNLOAD THE BOLT APP FOR PRIVATE TRANSPORT

Traffic in Bangkok can be chaotic, especially during peak hours. If you prefer the comfort of a private ride over crowded trains and buses, Bolt is a great option.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

I discovered this app thru a friend who shared that it was the cheapest private transportation option she experienced. True enough, the prices on Bolt were significantly cheaper than regular taxis and Grab. For example, a regular taxi quoted 300 Baht for the distance from Platinum Shopping Mall to My Hotel Pratunam, but on Bolt, it was only 66 Baht. Imagine what we can do with the huge difference!

#2: VISIT LOCAL NIGHT MARKETS

Not all markets in Bangkok are created equal. While popular spots like Chatuchak and Ratchada Train Markets are great for the experience, they often come with tourist price markups.

I recommend exploring less touristy markets where you can enjoy cheaper food and shopping. Some local favorites include Ram Inthra Expressway Market and Ramkhamhaeng Night Market.

#3: EAT LIKE A LOCAL

While indulging in high-end dining experiences is tempting, you can enjoy amazing meals anywhere in Thailand without breaking the bank. Try eating at roadside vendors or shopping mall food courts for a more budget-friendly option.

I had a delicious mango sticky rice for 100 Baht and a hearty Pad Thai for about 150 Baht. Just remember to bring antacid medicine if you have a sensitive stomach.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: HIT UP THE HYPERMARKETS

No trip to Thailand is complete without stocking up on local snacks. In Bangkok, Big C and Lotus are must-visit hypermarkets.

They offer a vast selection of snacks, fresh produce, and local treats at reasonable prices compared to smaller convenience stores. It’s a foodie’s dream come true!

#5: WITHDRAW TO THE MAX AT ATMS

In the age of contactless payments, it’s easy to forget how much cash you might need. While many places accept digital payments, you’ll still need cash at local markets and smaller establishments.

To avoid extra bank fees, withdraw the maximum amount or more than you anticipate needing at ATMs. My husband and I compared the conversion rates between paying by card and withdrawing cash, and surprisingly, the ATM rates were cheaper. But, rates may vary depending on the bank, so it’s best to compare first.

#6: NEGOTIATE PRICES WHENEVER POSSIBLE

Singaporeans, like many budget travelers, appreciate getting good value for their money. Bangkok is the perfect place for that, as you can haggle with ticket vendors, taxi drivers, market sellers, and shop owners.

For instance, I saw that the famous Poy Sian inhalers were priced at 99 Baht for six pieces at the Chang Siam Thailand 100 Baht Shop, compared to 120-140 Baht at Pratunam Night Market and Platinum Mall. Shop around and haggle whenever possible.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

These travel hacks can help you make the most of your trip to Bangkok without overspending. May you have a great trip!

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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This restaurant in Bangkok sells ‘Insane’ Crab Fried Rice for 340 baht (S$15)

Probably the best crab fried rice in Bangkok

Make a stop at Here Hai restaurant on your next visit to Bangkok. The restaurant is famous for its Insane Crab Fried Rice which comes with a generous amount of crab meat chunks served on top of fried rice with strong ‘wok hei’ aroma. The restaurant is so popular that you might have to queue for an hour to get into the restaurant during peak hours.

The restaurant is about 15 minutes walk from Ekkamai BTS station.

Check out some of the dishes on their menu below:

Insane Crab Fried Rice at 340THB

If you are coming in a large group, they have the XL-size fried rice selling for 990THB – good for 4 to 5 person.

Other signature dishes include their Stir Fried Mantis Shrimp, Cabbage with Pork Lard and Giant River Prawn, Creamy Omelette with Crab meat

Scallop rice selling at 250THB.

The queue at Here Hai restaurant:

Address: 112/3 Eakkamai Road, Wattans, Bangkok 10110 Thailand

Websitehttp://www.herehai.com

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One day only! Jetstar is offering $8^ sale fares to Bangkok on 23 Jan 2019

Jetstar Ang Bao Sale

Jetstar is running a 12-day Ang Bao Sale leading to Chinese New Year and will be unveiling an exclusive destination each day from 14 – 26 January 2019.

On January 23, take the opportunity to visit Bangkok from just S$8^+++ one way.

Book your ticket here.

Read Also: Receive more than $1,000 Cash Ang Pows This Chinese New Year

Share this news with your friends and loved ones!

Terms & Conditions

^Fares are one way, S$57.80 after taxes and fees. A booking and service fee is payable. Available until sale ends or sold out. T&Cs apply.

 

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4 Cheap Thrills In Bangkok

To usher in the New Year 2019, my friends and I are planning to visit three Southeast Asian countries including Bangkok (BKK). We are so excited to explore the cultural wonders of BKK. There is so much more to see than its shopping malls! For instance, you may visit these affordable places:

#1: WHEN IN DOUBT, CYCLE AROUND

What better way to get to know an unknown city than by roaming around the area by land? Strolling the area with your bare feet can only take you to the narby places. Try renting bicycles instead!

Bicycle tours are all the rage in Bangkok. Upon searching through the Viator’s website (i.e., a TripAdvisor company), I found a 2-hour bicycle tour consisting of six people. The small group shall pedal past many sights such as the Old Customs House and the Chinatown. The tour costs about S$25.

#2: TRADITIONAL PUPPET SHOWS, ANYONE?

Thai Puppetry may be a dying art but, the Artist’s House in Bangkok does its best to preserve this tradition. You can enjoy a beautiful folktale as told by intricately-made puppets for free. Shows run daily at 2 pm, except on Wednesdays. Puppeteers dressed in black pull the strings to control the vivid marionette puppets. Fully immerse yourself in the story to absorb their culture and creativity.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

#3: PLAYER ONE, READY!

Adventure-seekers and alike will be pleased with the Escape Room Bangkok. Each room has its own backstory, which sets the tone of the game. This “stimulation” establishment offers a new type of adrenaline rush as it does not involve physical strength to win. Instead, participants must use problem-solving skills and teamwork to break free from a given room.

Whether you are trying to accomplish a prison break or to vanquish a paranormal being, each person shall pay about S$29.

#4: A SWEET STROLL IN THE PARK

Boasting its free admission is one of BKK’s top parks – the Lumpini Park. Lumpini Park has enough space for you to ride the bike, play basketball, take yoga classes, and indulge in the greenery. In the colder months, you are free to listen to the orchestral concerts held every Sunday.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Do you have extra money to spare? Well, you can take advantage of the many food stalls found in the parks perimeter. Amp up the delightful experience by riding their paddle boat. Just watch out for the monitor lizards as these are animals are scattered in the area!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Jetstar to release $0 fares to Bangkok, Penang, Phuket and other destinations in a flash sale on 20 Oct 17

Celebrate Friday like never before with Jetstar.

If you wish to plan a getaway, do it with Jetstar and put them in your travel plan.

For only one day on 20 October 17, Jetstar will be having $0 sale fare to a few destinations including Bangkok, Penang, Phuket and more.

Check out the promotion below:

JetFF

Destinations Travel Period Price Find Flights
Penang 16 Jan 18 - 24 May 18 $0 Find flights
Kuala Lumpur 5 Nov 17 - 24 May 18 $2 Find flights
Bali (Denpasar) 1 Nov 17 - 7 Feb 18 $25 Find flights
Hat Yai 3 Nov 17 - 23 May 18 $3 Find flights
Siem Reap 14 Jan 18 - 24 May 18 $0 Find flights
Phuket 16 Jan 18 - 24 May 18 $0 Find flights
Clark 24 Feb 18 - 24 May 18 $0 Find flights
Bangkok 27 Feb 18 - 24 May 18 $0 Find flights

Who’d you travel with? Share these promo fares with your friends and loved ones!

^Important information about sale and special offer fares

  • ^Taxes $34 – $55 are payable and are subject to change. One way economy Starter fares with 7kg carry-on baggage only. Available until sale ends or fare is sold out. Not available on all flights or days. Availability may be limited. Other conditions apply, see things you need to know below.
  • Carry-on baggage limits, including size restrictions, will be strictly applied. Passengers with more than the applicable carry-on baggage allowance will need to check in baggage, and charges will apply.
  • Prices quoted are in Singapore dollars. Fares quoted are for one way and do not include taxes. A booking and service fee of $4 – $9.50 per passenger, per flight will apply.
  • Before you book your flight, and before you travel, please visit our travel advice page.
  • Most fares are non-refundable. Limited changes are permitted, charges apply. See Fare rules for more information. All travel on Jetstar is subject to the Jetstar Conditions of Carriage. Other conditions apply.

Read Also: Receive up to $150 NTUC FairPrice / Grab Vouchers from now till 15 Nov 2017

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