Bangkok: Big, Bold and Brilliantly Affordable
Bangkok was our first stop in Thailand — a city of tuk-tuks, temples, and more street food than you could shake a spring roll at. We went in expecting pure chaos and came out sunburnt, stuffed, and surprisingly rested… thanks to our little boujee basecamp: Nanda Heritage Hotel.
That’s the Tight Travellers way: budget where it counts, and treat yourself where it matters. And Bangkok’s the perfect place for it.
Where We Stayed: Budget Meets Boujee
Nanda Heritage Hotel
A right gem of a stay. We paid around £35 a night, but it felt fancier than we had any right to expect. Gorgeous Thai-style décor, a proper comfy bed, an outdoor pool (yes, a pool!), and top-notch air-con. It was our little calm oasis after long days exploring the wild city streets.
You’ll not find breakfast in the price, but with Bangkok’s street food scene, we didn’t mind one bit. Who needs a hotel buffet when there’s fresh mango sticky rice round every corner?
What We Did (On a Tight Traveller’s Budget)
We stuck to the plan: spend wisely, splash out occasionally, and soak up as much of the city as we could without spending like millionaires.
The Grand Palace
Cost: 500 baht each (~£11)
Definitely a pricier attraction by Thai standards, but an absolute must-see. It’s gold on gold on gold, with jaw-dropping detail and that “wow” factor. Felt a bit boujee wandering about, pretending we were Thai royalty (until we started sweating through our linen shirts).
Tight Tip: Dress modestly or you’ll have to buy emergency trousers at the gate. We speak from experience.
Chinatown
Cost: Free to explore
A sensory overload in the best way possible. Neon lights, sizzling woks, and knock-off handbags galore. We got lost in the best way — and left full of dumplings, pork buns, and grilled squid on a stick.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Cost: Free entry, what you spend is up to you
This place is massive — over 15,000 stalls of clothes, souvenirs, art, pets (yes, pets), and food. It’s like Leeds Market on steroids.
We picked up a few bargains: handmade jewellery, elephant pants, and a questionable fake Nike cap.
Tight Tip: Haggle kindly, and carry cash. No one’s got time for your Revolut card here.
Lumphini Park
Cost: Free
If you need a break from Bangkok’s buzz, this is the place. Locals doing tai chi, paddle boats on the lake, and giant monitor lizards.
Chao Phraya River Ferry
Cost: Around 15 baht (~35p)
One of the best ways to see the city is from the water. Skip the pricey tourist cruises and hop on the local ferry. We rode it just for the views — temples, skyscrapers, and daily life on the water.
Tight Travellers’ Tips: Bangkok Edition
- Splash a bit on your stay – a calm, clean base with air-con and a pool makes a world of difference when you’re navigating 35°C heat and city chaos.
- Eat where the locals eat – the best food is on the street. We’re talking curry for a quid and pad Thai better than anything you’ve had back home.
- Do your research, but be flexible – Bangkok’s full of surprises. Some of our fave moments weren’t planned — they happened while wandering side streets or hopping on the wrong ferry.
- Set a daily budget, then allow one ‘boujee moment’ a day – whether that’s a fancy coffee, a foot massage, or a posh rooftop drink (just the one, mind), it keeps you sane and happy.
Final Thoughts on Bangkok
Bangkok surprised us. It’s hectic, yes, but full of heart, and it can be done affordably without sacrificing comfort or experience. With a bit of clever planning and the occasional splurge, we managed to live it up without burning through our travel fund.
It’s the Tight Travellers way — budget where you can, boujee where it counts.
Tight Travellers 