What if your next holiday did not involve another trip to Goa but a passport, a flight to Thailand and a budget of just Rs 50,000? Travel creators K Balaji and Neethu have sparked interest among budget travellers after sharing how they explored Chiang Mai, Thailand, on a budget they claimed was cheaper than a Goa vacation.In a recent Instagram video, the duo offered a glimpse into their international getaway, featuring scenic cafes, distinctive temples, elephant sanctuaries, adventure activities and lively night markets. Their experience also highlighted how a well-planned connecting flight can make international travel feel less complicated than many people expect.The creators flew from Hyderabad to Chiang Mai with AirAsia and described the journey as smooth and convenient. While the claim that Thailand can be cheaper than Goa depends on travel dates, accommodation, activities and personal spending habits, their experience has raised an interesting question for holidaymakers: could an international trip fit into the budget of a domestic vacation?

Rs 50,000 for Thailand: What made this trip stand out?

For many Indian travellers, Thailand is already a popular international destination. However, the idea of exploring it on a budget of Rs 50,000 makes the prospect particularly appealing to people who assume overseas holidays always come with hefty expenses. Balaji and Neethu shared that they completed their trip within this amount and described Thailand as a destination offering a variety of experiences in one place. Their itinerary included visits to unique temples, cafes with distinctive settings, elephant sanctuaries and bustling night markets. They also explored adventure activities and enjoyed glimpses of peaceful village life, offering a mix of sightseeing, relaxation and entertainment.One of the memorable experiences featured in their video was a cafe where visitors could sit in specially designed seating areas inside a pond and feed the fish. The unusual setting added a different element to their travel experience. The couple summed up their impressions by highlighting Thailand’s variety of attractions, from aesthetic cafes and wildlife experiences to adventure activities and cultural sites. Their trip suggests that travellers who plan carefully and prioritise their preferred experiences may be able to explore an international destination without necessarily spending a fortune.

From Hyderabad to Chiang Mai: The flight experience they praised

For first-time international travellers, flight connections and baggage transfers can sometimes feel intimidating. Balaji and Neethu highlighted these aspects of their journey as one of its biggest advantages. The creators travelled from Hyderabad to Chiang Mai with AirAsia through Bangkok. According to their post, the booking included a connecting flight arrangement, with two boarding passes issued together and a Fly-Thru tag for their luggage.They said their baggage was transferred directly to Chiang Mai, eliminating the need to collect and check it in again during their Bangkok connection. They also appreciated the assistance provided by airline staff during the layover, which helped them proceed towards their connecting flight. The duo opted for Premium Flex seats for additional comfort and pre-booked Santan meals for the journey. They described the meals positively and said the overall experience was convenient. Their account may be reassuring for travellers who worry about managing a connecting flight abroad. However, baggage transfers and transit procedures depend on the specific ticket, route and applicable airline conditions, so passengers should always check their booking details before departure.

Elephant sanctuaries, unusual cafes and night markets: What they explored

Chiang Mai offered the creators more than just a change of scenery. Their video captured several experiences that made the destination appealing to different kinds of travellers. Nature lovers can find opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside and visit elephant sanctuaries, while those interested in culture can discover temples with distinctive architecture and local traditions. For food lovers, cafes with unusual designs and local dining experiences can become highlights of the trip. The pond-side cafe featured in the video was one such attraction, combining a distinctive setting with an interactive experience.Night markets added another dimension to the getaway, with their lively atmosphere and opportunities to discover local food, shopping and everyday culture. The creators also included adventure activities and peaceful village scenes, showing a side of Thailand beyond its better-known tourist hotspots. This variety can make Chiang Mai an appealing option for travellers who want to combine sightseeing, food, nature and leisure within a single holiday.

Is Thailand really cheaper than Goa?

The creators’ claim that their Thailand trip cost Rs 50,000 and felt cheaper than a Goa vacation has understandably caught attention. However, the comparison should be viewed as their personal travel experience rather than a fixed rule for every traveller. The final cost of a holiday depends on several factors, including flight fares, hotel choices, the length of the stay, local transport, food and paid activities. Goa can be relatively affordable for travellers who choose budget accommodation and travel during quieter periods. Similarly, Thailand can become more expensive when flights, premium hotels and multiple paid attractions are added to the itinerary.For anyone considering a similar getaway, the practical approach is to compare the total cost of both destinations before booking. Checking connecting-flight arrangements, planning activities in advance and setting a daily spending limit can also help keep expenses under control. Balaji and Neethu’s experience offers an encouraging reminder that international travel may be more accessible than some people imagine. With thoughtful planning, a trip abroad can offer new food, cultural experiences and memorable adventures without automatically requiring a luxury-holiday budget. Their message is simple: before assuming that an overseas holiday will cost more than a domestic one, compare the numbers. Your next memorable getaway might be closer to your budget than you think.