The Kingdom has launched the TouristDigiPay program, which allows you to pay for goods and services using cryptocurrency.
Direct payment in Bitcoin or Ether is not possible. First, you need to open an account with one of the local approved companies, pass an identity check, and receive an electronic wallet that can be replenished with cryptocurrency and used to pay for purchases in baht using a QR code.
There are limits on spending: up to 500,000 baht (≈1.23 million rubles) in large stores and up to 50,000 baht (≈123,700 rubles) in small stores. You can only withdraw money from your account after it is closed.
The authorities hope that the program will give a new boost to tourism. However, experts warn that the lengthy registration process may discourage travelers, and many vendors in the resorts are not yet aware of the new system. Russian tourists also do not show much interest in paying with cryptocurrency — most still prefer cash or UnionPay cards.
Cryptocurrency payments are an experiment. But to see the real Thailand through the eyes of a local is an experience worth trying.
Cover photo: apiguide/Shutterstock.com
