PATTAYA, Thailand – While the Thai baht has fluctuated over the past decade, foreign tourists say the currency swings rarely impact their vacations. One long-time visitor recalls arriving in Thailand in 2015 when the exchange rate was about 30 baht to the USD. Today it hovers around 32. Over the years, it has peaked at 38 and dropped as low as 29.
“I find it hard to believe that baht fluctuations significantly impact tourism,” the visitor said. “You’d have to be a broke backpacker staying in a hostel to worry about a few percentage points when planning a vacation, especially considering airfare from Europe or the States. Once you get here, everything is a bargain compared to home.”
The traveler stressed that this perspective applies to short-term visitors, not retirees on a fixed income living in Thailand. “A 10 to 20% swing makes a difference over a year, but for a few weeks? I’ve never once thought about exchange rates on vacation.”
Tourists report that Thailand’s currency exchange is transparent, with rates close to the real market value. “In the UK they’ll screw you on the buy/sell rate and you lose about 10%,” one visitor added. “I’m bringing £1,500 in cash for my three-week stay next week, plus 5,000 baht left over from my last trip.”
While baht fluctuations may not scare away tourists, the real pinch comes from rising costs of food and accommodation. Western-style dining in Bangkok can be expensive, and hotel rates spike sharply during high season. Visitors say they adapt by being careful where they spend, avoiding tourist-heavy streets like Walking Street, and instead supporting businesses along Soi Buakhao and surrounding sois.
Pattaya’s currency exchange booths remain busy, a visual reminder that even in a changing financial landscape, tourists prioritize convenience and value. The scene underscores a growing trend: short-term visitors continue to focus on experiences over minor financial concerns, showing that Thailand’s sun, sea, and culture still hold strong appeal.
