Which place is cheaper, Zhengzhou or Phuket?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Phuket or Zhengzhou?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Zhengzhou, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Where Should I go: Phuket or Zhengzhou?
Phuket
Phuket Island is the holiday gem of southern Thailand. Known for its beaches and resorts, the island brings in a massive amount of travelers from all over the world, year round. Although the beaches are beautiful, Phuket has also become more westernized and tourist-oriented in recent decades, leaving many travelers to venture elsewhere to find that amazing beach with a more authentic Thai vibe. However, Phuket Island is quite large, and hidden gems can still be found.
Zhengzhou
Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing.
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Phuket Prices
Thailand PricesZhengzhou Prices
China Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayPhuket $139Zhengzhou $65
The average daily cost (per person) in Phuket is $139, while the average daily cost in Zhengzhou is $65. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Phuket and Zhengzhou in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personPhuket $64Zhengzhou $21
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomPhuket $128Zhengzhou $42
Compare Hotels in Phuket and Zhengzhou
Looking for a hotel in Phuket or Zhengzhou? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Phuket Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Phuket $12Zhengzhou $14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Phuket
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Phuket:
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Longtail Taxi (for Two)$9.42
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Taxi from Airport to Phuket Town$7.85
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phuket
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Phuket:
- Hanuman World Phuket Round Trip Transfer Extra Zone: $95
- Lion Land Phuket Entry Ticket with Private Hotel Transfer: $69
- Ziplines 28 platforms with Free Transfer RoundTrips: $80
- (Privet)Phuket Transfer: $11
- ATV Bike 1 hr + ziplines 30 platforms with Roundtrip Transfer : $160
- ATV Bike 1 hr+ Skyline Adventure 28 platforms with free Transfer: $135
- Andamanda Phuket Water Park Ticket Include Transfers: $84
- Andamanda Phuket Water Park Tickets with Transfers: $116
- Andamanda Water Park Phuket Entry Ticket with Hotel Transfers: $75
- Arrival Phuket Airport Private Transfer : Hotel in Phuket: $43
- Arrival Private Transfers from Phuket Airport HKT to Phuket City: $131
- Best ATV Bike and Ziplines Adventure with Transfer : $42
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
- Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- Zhengzhou airport or Train Staion Transfer Service: $150
- Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
- [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
Is it cheaper to fly into Phuket or Zhengzhou?
Prices for flights to both Zhengzhou and Phuket change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayPhuket $43Zhengzhou $36
Typical Food Prices in Phuket
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Phuket:
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Casual Dinner (for Two)$9.08
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Casual Lunch (for Two)$5.34
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Sit Down Dinner (for Two)$13
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Thai Noodles$2.83
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Bananas$0.79
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Pizza (for Two)$9.42
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phuket
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Phuket.
- Phuket Coral Island and Sunset Dinner by Luxury Catamaran: $43
- Phuket Express Thai Cooking Course with Authentic Recipes : $44
- Phuket 10+ Tastings Food Tour & Charming Old Town: $52
- Express Thai Cooking Class in Phuket: $52
- Vegetarian Organic Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Phuket: $53
- Organic Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour in Phuket: $57
- Authentic Thai Cooking Class by Suuko Wellness Spa: $57
- Phuket Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour and Hotel Pickup: $58
- Carnival Entertainment and Dinner Experience in Phuket: $59
- Southern Flavors Phuket Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59
- Flavours of the South Food Tour: $59
- Baba Tastes Phuket Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.
- Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Phuket $49Zhengzhou $5.03
Typical Entertainment Prices in Phuket
Here are a few typical costs in Phuket for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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One Day Boat Tour$28
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Scuba Diving (Two Dives)$79
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Thai Oil Massage$20
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Surfboard Rental$9.42
Tours and Activities in Phuket
Here are a few actual costs in Phuket for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Self Guided Scavenger Hunts and Gamified Tours: $4.75
- Oto Indoor Play Park Entrance Ticket in Phuket: $8.05
- Phuket Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
- Aquarium Phuket Admission Ticket: $14
- Phuket Rock Beach Swing Tickets: $17
- Aquaria Phuket Tickets and 4D Trickeye Museum Combo Deal: $17
- Aquaria Phuket and 4D Trickeye Museum Experience Ticket: $17
- Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by Phi Phi Cruiser: $19
- Phuket Highlights: Half Day City Tour with Landmark & Viewpoint: $21
- Phang Nga Bay Skywalk at Samet Nangshe Admission Ticket: $21
- Half Day Phuket City tour + Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off: $21
- Patong Beach Parasailing and Jet Skiing Experience Shared: $22
Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou
Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Kaifeng city highlights tour with delicious lunch from Zhengzhou: $120
- Shaolin Temple One Day Tour: $125
- Private Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $126
- All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $140
- Private Independent Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $158
- Private Independent Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $169
- Zhengzhou Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes: $175
- Zhengzhou private day tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu show: $180
- Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
- Datong:HangingTemple&Grotto Private Car with Entrance ticket: $199
- Zhengzhou:Kaifeng Private Day Tour Featuring MUST-SEE Attractions: $209
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayPhuket $7.32Zhengzhou $4.04
Typical Alcohol Prices in Phuket
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Phuket from other travelers:
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Cocktails (for Two)$6.28
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Beer$2.67
Sample the Local Flavors in Phuket
Also in Phuket, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Experience: $41
- Chalong Bay Rum Distillery Experience and Lunch: $55
- Phuket Real City Tour with Rum Cocktail Distillery: $89
- Phuket Sightseeing Tour with Rum Distillery : $113
- Big Buddha & The Distillery Phuket: $138
- Phuket Rum Distillery Cocktail Workshop And Wat Chalong Temple : $172
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phuket and Zhengzhou, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Zhengzhou much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zhengzhou would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zhengzhou and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket than you might in Zhengzhou.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Phuket Expensive? and Is Zhengzhou Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Phuket or Zhengzhou?
Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Zhengzhou, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
When is the best time to visit Phuket or Zhengzhou?
Zhengzhou has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Phuket experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
Should I visit Phuket or Zhengzhou in the Summer?
Both Zhengzhou and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year.
In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Zhengzhou. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).
It's quite sunny in Zhengzhou. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zhengzhou during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Zhengzhou receives 215 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyPhuket 28°C (82°F)Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F)
Should I visit Phuket or Zhengzhou in the Autumn?
Both Zhengzhou and Phuket during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.
Phuket is much warmer than Zhengzhou in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).
In the autumn, Phuket often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zhengzhou receives 188 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberPhuket 27°C (81°F)Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)
Should I visit Phuket or Zhengzhou in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Zhengzhou. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Zhengzhou. In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Zhengzhou. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Zhengzhou averages at about 1°C (34°F).
In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Zhengzhou during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Zhengzhou receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Phuket usually receives more rain than Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Phuket is the dry season.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryPhuket 28°C (82°F)Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F)
Should I visit Phuket or Zhengzhou in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Zhengzhou. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.
In April, Phuket is generally much warmer than Zhengzhou. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zhengzhou receives 201 hours of full sun.
Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets more rain in April than Zhengzhou. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilPhuket 29°C (84°F)Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)
Typical Weather for Zhengzhou and Phuket
| Phuket | Zhengzhou | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 28°C (82°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) |
| Feb | 28°C (83°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) |
| Mar | 29°C (84°F) | 52 mm (2 in) | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) |
| Apr | 29°C (84°F) | 120 mm (4.7 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) |
| May | 28°C (83°F) | 318 mm (12.5 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| Jun | 28°C (82°F) | 279 mm (11 in) | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (82°F) | 287 mm (11.3 in) | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) |
| Aug | 28°C (82°F) | 262 mm (10.3 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) |
| Sep | 27°C (81°F) | 399 mm (15.7 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) |
| Oct | 27°C (81°F) | 304 mm (12 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) |
| Nov | 27°C (81°F) | 165 mm (6.5 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
| Dec | 27°C (81°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.