I mean both. A prostitute in China costs a lot more than one in Pattaya. I know from personal experience. The service is much better in Thailand also. You get value for money.

As for "shelling out money so that a girl will marry you" why would anyone do that? If the girl really loves you she will marry you, rich or poor, that is regardless of in China, Thailand or anywhere in Asia

No, men should not foot the bill for meals, dinners. A married friend of mine from Canada ( he is divorcing his Chinese wife ) now in Pattaya used to date women in Nanning. He would never agree to meet them at a restaurant as that means wasting money for two meals. He would invite them back to his rented apartment for coffee. His wife was often in another city for work so he could do this.

If they did not agree to sex on the first or second meet it was "bye bye". This is smart and all men should follow this strategy.