A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Surat Thani vs. Zhengzhou for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Surat Thani or Zhengzhou?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Surat Thani and Zhengzhou can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Where Should I go: Surat Thani or Zhengzhou?

Surat Thani

The best way to see the real culture of a country is to go where the tourists are not. If you are itching to experience real Thai culture, you may want to visit the city of Surat Thani. Located on the central gulf coast of southern Thailand, this city is usually the gateway to other Thai islands – meaning visitors run through it without stopping. Stay a while and get to know Surat Thani – known to the locals as the "City of Good People."

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 Yoga Tours and Retreats in Thailand, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in China, and The Best 2-Week Tours in China.


Which place is cheaper, Zhengzhou or Surat Thani?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Surat Thani is $53, while the average daily cost in Zhengzhou is $98. 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 Surat Thani and Zhengzhou in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Surat Thani $25
    Zhengzhou $36
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Surat Thani $50
    Zhengzhou $72
Compare Hotels in Surat Thani and Zhengzhou

Looking for a hotel in Surat Thani 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.

Hotels in Surat Thani


Hotels in Zhengzhou


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Surat Thani $24
    Zhengzhou $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Surat Thani

Also for Surat Thani, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Donsak pier to aonang , krabi town , klongmuang any hotel Private transfer: $114
  • From Koh Samui: One-Way Ferry Transfer to Surat Thani: $7.16
  • Private Airport Transfer in Koh Samui Sedan 1-3 PAX: $12
  • Private Arrival Transfer : Koh Samui Airport to Koh Samui Hotel (SHA Plus): $14
  • Private Transfer Surat Thani Airport (URT) to / from Surat Thani: $196
  • Private Transfer from Samui (USM) Airport to Bo Phut: $36
  • Private Transfer from Samui (USM) Airport to Chaweng: $36
  • Private Transfer from Samui (USM) Airport to Choeng Mon Beach: $36
  • Transfer to Don Sak Pier: $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:

  • Private Transfer to Guoliang Village and Tunnel from Zhengzhou: $160
  • Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
  • Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
  • Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
  • Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $65
  • Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
  • [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Surat Thani or Zhengzhou?

Prices for flights to both Zhengzhou and Surat Thani 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Surat Thani $14
    Zhengzhou $28
Typical Food Prices in Surat Thani

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Surat Thani:


  • Dinner
    $4.09

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Surat Thani

For Surat Thani, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Khao Sok: Elephant Day Care, Cooking Class, & Bamboo Raft: $71

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
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Surat Thani $4.97
    Zhengzhou $8.18

Tours and Activities in Surat Thani

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Surat Thani.

  • Pick up and drop off tourists around Koh Samui: $14
  • The one and only Zipline Experience of Lamai Viewpoint: $38
  • Koh Samui Day and Night Fishing Experience: $48
  • Koh Samui: 4x4 Sightseeing Safari & Elephant Sanctuary Tour: $58
  • Koh Samui: Unique Iocal Tour & Elephant Sanctuary with lunch: $65
  • Blue Stars Kayaking Adventure in Angthong Marine Park: $69
  • X Quad Novice Waterfall ATV Tour (1 Driver): $76
  • Koh Samui: Elephant Kingdom Sanctuary Half-Day Tour: $81
  • Samui Dolphins Tour by Catamaran Yacht: $87
  • Khao Sok: Cheow Lan Lake Sunset Cruise w/ Drinks: $91
  • From Khao Lak/Khao Sok: Cheow Lan Lake and Emerald Pool Tour: $105
  • Samui X Quad ATV Tour (1 Driver) with lunch: $122

Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $265
  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $275
  • All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $265
  • All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $209
  • Full-Day Private Kaifeng Highlight Tour from Zhengzhou: $248
  • Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
  • Kaifeng City Highlights Independant Tour from Zhengzhou: $80
  • Private Day Tour to Guoliang from Zhengzhou: $268
  • Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Songyang Academy from Zhengzhou: $233
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu Class from Zhengzhou: $287

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Surat Thani $4.96
    Zhengzhou $6.31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Surat Thani and Zhengzhou, we can see that Zhengzhou is more expensive. And not only is Surat Thani much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Surat Thani would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Surat Thani 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 Zhengzhou would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zhengzhou than you might in Surat Thani.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Surat Thani Expensive? and Is Zhengzhou Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Surat Thani or Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 2014130 times larger than the population of Surat Thani. When comparing the sizes of Surat Thani 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 Surat Thani or Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Surat Thani experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Surat Thani or Zhengzhou in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Surat Thani as well as Zhengzhou. Surat Thani attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Surat Thani is around the same temperature as Zhengzhou in the summer. The daily temperature in Surat Thani averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

It's quite rainy in Zhengzhou. Surat Thani receives a lot of rain in the summer. Surat Thani usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Zhengzhou. Surat Thani gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Surat Thani 28°C (82°F) 
    Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Surat Thani or Zhengzhou in the Autumn?

Both Zhengzhou and Surat Thani are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Surat Thani throughout the year.

In the autumn, Surat Thani is much warmer than Zhengzhou. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Surat Thani in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Zhengzhou averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Surat Thani. In October, Surat Thani usually receives more rain than Zhengzhou. Surat Thani gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Surat Thani 27°C (81°F) 
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Surat Thani or Zhengzhou in the Winter?

Both Zhengzhou and Surat Thani during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Surat Thani because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It's quite cold in Zhengzhou in the winter. In January, Surat Thani is generally much warmer than Zhengzhou. Daily temperatures in Surat Thani average around 25°C (77°F), and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Surat Thani usually gets more rain in January than Zhengzhou. Surat Thani gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Surat Thani 25°C (77°F) 
    Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Surat Thani or Zhengzhou in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Surat Thani and Zhengzhou. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Surat Thani year-round.

Surat Thani is much warmer than Zhengzhou in the spring. The daily temperature in Surat Thani averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Zhengzhou fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In April, Surat Thani usually receives more rain than Zhengzhou. Surat Thani gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zhengzhou receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Surat Thani 29°C (83°F) 
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Zhengzhou and Surat Thani

Surat Thani Zhengzhou
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (34°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Feb 26°C (79°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 27°C (81°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 29°C (83°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 27°C (80°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 28°C (83°F) 137 mm (5.4 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 240 mm (9.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 335 mm (13.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Dec 26°C (78°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)


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