Thailand

Thailand is wonderfully diverse, so start by deciding what kind of trip you want: buzzing cities, jungle temples, or lazy island days. Many first-time visitors split their time between Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and a southern beach like Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui. For a week, focus on two bases; with 10–14 days, you can comfortably add a third.

Use Hello’s trip planning to map out your route and keep all bookings — flights, guesthouses, tours — in one place. Aim for a mix of busy and slow days: a temple and street-food wander in Bangkok, a cooking class or elephant sanctuary (ethical only) near Chiang Mai, then snorkeling or island-hopping down south.

A few practical tips:

• Book ahead for peak season (Nov–Feb), especially popular islands.
• Leave space for spontaneity; Thailand rewards flexible travelers.
• Check domestic flights versus overnight trains; both can save precious time.

Hello’s budget tracking helps you compare costs between destinations in THB and keep your daily spend on track, whether you’re backpacking or splurging on a rooftop pool in Bangkok.

Thai food is a highlight of any trip, from smoky wok-fried pad kra pao at a street stall to rich massaman curry in a cozy restaurant. Street food is generally safe where there’s a high turnover of customers — follow the crowds and watch dishes cooked fresh. Expect street meals around 50–100 THB (roughly $1.50–$3), while mid-range restaurants run 200–400 THB per dish ($6–$12).

A few tips to eat well:

• Start mild with pad thai or green curry, then work up to spicier dishes.
• Look for night markets like Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or Rot Fai Market in Bangkok.
• Ask for “pet noi” (a little spicy) if you’re cautious.

Tap water isn’t drinkable; buy sealed bottles and try fresh fruit shakes or iced Thai tea. Alcohol is widely available, but double-check happy hour deals and bar closing times. Hello’s expense splitting makes it easy to divide restaurant and bar bills in THB with travel companions, and budget tracking helps you keep an eye on how much those craft cocktails and coffee stops are adding up over your trip.

Thailand’s transport is varied and generally easy to navigate. In cities, you’ll use a mix of BTS Skytrain and MRT in Bangkok, taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis. For taxis, ask the driver to use the meter and avoid unlicensed cars. Tuk-tuks are fun, but always agree the fare beforehand and be clear that you’re not interested in “special shopping stops.”

For longer distances, budget airlines connect major hubs like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi, often for 1,000–2,500 THB ($30–$75) if booked early. Overnight trains are a comfortable, scenic alternative on routes like Bangkok–Chiang Mai; reserve a sleeper berth in advance.

Buy and activate a Hello eSIM before you land so your phone works as soon as you step off the plane, which makes using map apps, ride-hailing, and translation tools simple from day one. Once you’re connected, you can:

• Check real-time traffic and train routes
• Confirm bus stations and ferry piers
• Keep all your trip planning details handy for check-ins and transfers

In islands and rural areas, expect songthaews (shared pickups) and scooter rentals — drive only if you’re confident and properly insured.

Thailand uses the Thai baht (THB), and cash is still important for markets, street food, and rural guesthouses. ATMs are widespread in cities and tourist areas; withdrawal fees add up, so take out larger amounts less frequently. Everyday costs are pleasantly low: a simple guesthouse can be 600–1,200 THB per night ($18–$36), local restaurants 100–250 THB per meal ($3–$7.50), and intercity buses from around 300–800 THB ($9–$24).

To keep finances smooth:

• Carry small bills for tuk-tuks and food stalls.
• Double-check prices before ordering in tourist-heavy bars.
• Keep a rough daily budget (and some emergency buffer).

Hello’s budget tracking in THB makes it easy to see where your money is going — street food, massages, transport — and adjust on the fly. When traveling with others, use expense splitting to share costs on hotel rooms, taxis, or boat trips without awkward calculations.

For everyday comfort, dress modestly for temples (covered shoulders, knees), remove shoes before entering, and carry a light scarf. A small crossbody bag keeps cash and phone secure on busy streets and in night markets.