Budget — Phuket

Phuket is noticeably pricier than other Thai destinations, with an average budget of €55/day/person in comfort mode. The difference with Bangkok or Chiang Mai is driven by higher beachfront accommodation prices and the cost of boat excursions.

A backpacker can hold a budget of €30-40 a day: a dorm bed in a Patong or Karon hostel (350-600 THB, €9-16), meals in local restaurants or the night market (80-200 THB, €2-5), beach and snorkelling self-led. The mid-range traveller — double room in a clean hotel with pool at Kata or Surin (1,200-3,000 THB/night, €32-79), shared boat excursion to Phi Phi (1,200-1,600 THB/person), mid-range restaurants — counts between €55 and €100 per day. The luxury traveller staying in the great Bangtao or Surin resorts (3,000-15,000 THB/night, €79-395), with spa, private pool and private excursions, will easily exceed €200-400 per day in Phuket.

By spending category, here are realistic ranges. Accommodation: dorm 300-600 THB (€8-16), basic room 800-1,500 THB (€21-39), comfort hotel with pool 1,500-4,000 THB (€39-105), luxury resort 4,000-15,000 THB (€105-395). Food: night market or local stall 80-150 THB (€2-4), tourist restaurant 200-500 THB (€5-13), fine-dining or rooftop 600-1,500 THB (€16-39). Transport: songthaew (shared pickup) 30-60 THB on main routes, Grab 100-400 THB by distance, scooter rental 200-350 THB/day (with associated risks). Activities: group Phi Phi excursion 1,200-1,600 THB (€32-42), group Phang Nga excursion 1,000-1,400 THB (€26-37), guided dive 1,800-3,000 THB (€47-79)/2 dives, shared snorkelling boat 800-1,200 THB (€21-32).

Budget tips: avoid the classic scams — gem sellers who promise resale profit in Europe (it doesn't exist), scooter rental outfits that flag fictitious damage at return (photograph the bike before leaving). Book excursions directly with beachfront agencies rather than through your hotel (save 15-25%). Patong nightlife is pricey in drinks — Happy Hour beers stay at 80-120 THB (€2-3) in the local bars.