Latest — Money & shopping

• Money & shopping

  Happy Hour Guide in Thailand: A Strategy to Have More Fun for Less

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 12, 2026

  In Thailand, **Happy Hour** is a special discount period implemented by bars, clubs, and restaurants during early hours (usually between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM) when customer traffic is low. During this time, beers, cocktails, and some drinks are offered with "Buy 1 Get 1 Free" deals or at fixed low prices. For tourists looking to optimize their travel budget, Happy Hour is the most efficient financial preparation phase before the evening entertainment begins.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  Shopping Guide in Thailand: The Art of Bargaining and Financial Logistics

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 10, 2026

  Shopping in Thailand is a balance between the fixed pricing structure of modern malls and the flexible bargaining culture of local markets. Bargaining is considered a social logistics process, especially in street markets and tourist areas; starting at 30-40% below the initial offer is a rational approach. By 2026, the use of credit cards and ***_PromptPay_*** will be standardized in large stores, while cash still provides an operational advantage at small stalls.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  What to Buy from Thailand? The Best Gift and Souvenir Options (2026)

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 7, 2026

  The English equivalent of the question "What to buy from Thailand?" is **"What are the best souvenirs from Thailand?"** The most valuable products to bring back to Turkey include world-famous **Thai Silk**, exotic dried fruits, herbal creams like **Tiger Balm**, and local aromatic spices. These gifts, light in logistics and heavy in cultural significance, are the best options that reflect the spirit of Thailand.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  Pattaya Nightlife Budget: How Much to Spend in One Night? (2026)

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 4, 2026

  In Pattaya, the budget for a night out ranges widely between **1,500 Baht and 10,000 Baht** depending on the type of venue you prefer. On an average standard night; beer prices range from 80-160 Baht, cocktails from 250-400 Baht, and "Ladydrink" payments are around 200-250 Baht. The main factor determining the budget in Walking Street logistics is not the number of drinks but the social interactions in Go-Go bars and transportation costs at the end of the night. As of 2026, cash usage is still common, but many venues accept payments via ***_PromptPay_***.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  Shopping Guide in Thailand: Logistics Tips from Local Markets to Luxury Malls

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 3, 2026

  Shopping in Thailand has a hierarchical structure. Chain stores like **7-Eleven** and **Lotus’s** are at the center of the logistics network for daily food needs, while local morning markets (Talad) are the most economical choice for fresh produce. For luxury consumption and technology, massive complexes like **Siam Paragon** and **CentralwOrld** in Bangkok offer world-class services. By 2026, VAT refund processes have been digitized, making shopping more attractive for tourists.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  How to Get VAT Refund in Thailand

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 1, 2026

  To receive a **7% VAT refund** (VAT Refund) on your purchases in Thailand, you must spend at least **2,000 Baht** in the same store on the same day and fill out the "P.P.10" form. Before leaving the airport, your total shopping amount must be at least **5,000 Baht**, and you need to physically present the products to the customs office. For items over 10,000 Baht, such as luxury watches or jewelry, the approval of the "yellow form" is crucial.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  Is Credit Card Usage Common in Thailand?

  

  ByArif Güvenç

  Published:Apr 1, 2026

  In Thailand, credit card usage is quite common in luxury hotels, large shopping malls, and chain stores (like 7-Eleven with certain limits); however, cash (Baht) or local QR payment systems (PromptPay) dominate in street food, local markets, and taxis. Since many small businesses may charge a **3% additional commission** for card payments, it is financially wise to always carry cash.

  Read more
• Money & shopping

  What is PromptPay? How to Use PromptPay? (2026 Updated Guide)

  

  ByArif GÜVENÇ

  Published:Apr 1, 2026

  **PromptPay** is Thailand's national instant payment system that allows users to send and receive money in seconds by linking their bank accounts to a phone number or ID number. As of 2026, this system has nearly eliminated cash usage in Thailand, and it is widely accepted everywhere, from street vendors to luxury stores, especially with its **QR code payment** feature. While it generally requires a local bank account, it is an essential part of financial life for long-term foreign residents.

  Read more