Thailand and Bali Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Friday, December 29, 2023: Arrival in Thailand

Start your trip by arriving in Bangkok, Thailand. In the morning, explore the Grand Palace, a magnificent complex of temples and palaces. Afternoon can be spent wandering through the vibrant street markets of Chatuchak Weekend Market. In the evening, experience the bustling nightlife of Khao San Road.

• Grand Palace: Cost Estimate - ฿500 (~$15), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chatuchak Weekend Market: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Khao San Road: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Evening

Saturday, December 30, 2023: Chiang Mai Exploration

Take a morning flight to Chiang Mai. In the morning, visit the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afternoon can be spent exploring the vibrant Nimmanhaemin Road, known for its trendy cafes and shops. In the evening, visit the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for shopping and local street food.

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Cost Estimate - ฿50 (~$1.5) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Nimmanhaemin Road: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Afternoon
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Evening

Sunday, December 31, 2023: New Year's Eve in Bangkok

Take a flight back to Bangkok for New Year's Eve celebrations. In the morning, visit the iconic Wat Arun temple by the Chao Phraya River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the vibrant Chinatown and sampling delicious street food. In the evening, join the countdown celebrations at the city's central location, such as CentralWorld or Asiatique.

• Wat Arun: Cost Estimate - ฿50 (~$1.5) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chinatown: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Afternoon
• New Year's Eve Countdown: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Evening

Monday, January 1, 2024: Arrival in Bali

Take a flight from Bangkok to Bali, Indonesia. In the morning, relax on the beautiful beaches of Kuta or Seminyak and enjoy the stunning views. Afternoon can be spent exploring the famous Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff with breathtaking sunsets. In the evening, head to Jimbaran Beach for a seafood feast by the ocean.

• Kuta or Seminyak Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Morning
• Uluwatu Temple: Cost Estimate - ฿30,000 (~$2) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Jimbaran Beach Seafood Dinner: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Evening

Tuesday, January 2, 2024: Ubud Cultural Experience

Travel to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. In the morning, visit the iconic Ubud Monkey Forest and interact with playful monkeys. Afternoon can be spent exploring the traditional markets and art galleries of Ubud. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Balinese dance performance.

• Ubud Monkey Forest: Cost Estimate - ฿80 (~$2.5) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ubud Traditional Markets: Cost Estimate - Flexible, Time Spent - Afternoon
• Balinese Dance Performance: Cost Estimate - ฿100,000 (~$6.5) per person, Time Spent - Evening

Wednesday, January 3, 2024: Island Hopping

Take a boat tour to Nusa Penida, a stunning island near Bali. In the morning, visit the famous Kelingking Beach for its iconic T-rex-shaped cliff. Afternoon can be spent snorkeling or swimming at Crystal Bay. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset at Broken Beach.

• Kelingking Beach: Cost Estimate - ฿10,000 (~$0.5) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Snorkeling at Crystal Bay: Cost Estimate - ฿150,000 (~$10) per person, Time Spent - Afternoon
• Sunset at Broken Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Evening

Thursday, January 4, 2024: Farewell Bali

On the last day of your trip, explore the traditional village of Penglipuran and learn about Balinese culture. Afternoon can be spent enjoying the scenic beauty of Tegalalang Rice Terrace. In the evening, visit the famous Tanah Lot Temple and witness a stunning sunset.

• Penglipuran Village: Cost Estimate - ฿10,000 (~$0.5) entrance fee, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Afternoon
• Tanah Lot Temple: Cost Estimate - ฿60,000 (~$4) entrance fee, Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you want to explore off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the lesser-known Nusa Ceningan Island in Bali. It offers stunning blue lagoon views, secret beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, explore the peaceful and artistic Nimmanhaemin Soi 13 Alley for hidden cafes and boutiques.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.