Yeah, Bangkok is a perfect example of that. The hostels there are so cheap and well set up for meeting people, it almost feels like the default way to travel the city. It really changes how you budget for a longer trip.

Is it a tourist tax on common sense? Honestly, the airport kiosk is just the first and easiest option, so most people grab it without a second thought. Tbh we all overpay to avoid a little hassle.

My sunset looked like a melted crayon once.