Thailand has cemented its reputation as one of the best destinations in Asia. The tropical paradise, often known as the Land of Smiles, is an excellent place for expats wanting to relocate. If you are looking to move to and live in this country where the sun always shines, here is everything you need to know:
Cost of living
Before moving to any country, you need to consider how much life costs. In Thailand, the north is much cheaper than the tourist-preferred south. However, that comes at the cost of being far away from the coast. The cost of living largely depends on where in Thailand you are. For instance, in Bangkok, the cost of living is high, but the silver lining is that people earn more there, and the choice of entertainment is significantly better.
Language
When moving to any country that speaks a foreign language, it is always worth learning a few words and phrases. Not only will it make your stay there smoother, but the local Thai people appreciate it when a foreigner makes the effort to speak their language. Ensure you learn a few basic phrases like hellos and thank you. That should be enough to get you started.
Where to live in Thailand
Thailand is a developed regional transport hub in Asia. It has an advanced network of travel infrastructure, making it easier to move from one part of the country to another. People could use planes, trains or automobiles. What that means is that you can opt to live anywhere without much hassle. Some of the most popular destinations for foreigners and expats are:
Bangkok
This city is the center of Thailand’s economy, especially being the capital. It is more populated than any other city in the country. The extensive city has an enormous and modern metropolis, is full of shopping malls, skyscrapers, and sky trains. If you plan to move to Thailand for business or professional reasons, Bangkok may be the place. Or if you enjoy the urban lifestyle. Pattaya is about 150km from Bangkok and has also attracted a large expat community. You can even buy some pool villas in Pattaya and make the place your home! You will love exploring some lovely destinations like the Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden, Jomtien Beach, Wat Yansangwararam, and more!
Phuket
This island is home to hundreds of thousands of residents. The place is also full of expats from different nationalities across the globe. If you prefer to be by the beaches, the island has more than enough to offer. There are several beaches on the island, and each of them has its unique vibe. The marine scene with various marinas is home to expats who have dedicated their lives to the beaches. With numerous world-class golf courses, amenities and facilities, the island is popular with expats and Thai’s upper and middle class.
Chiang Mai
If you love to live in a serene location, Chiang Mai might be the place for you. The cost of living in the city is lower than in areas like Bangkok. The city hosts people from all walks of life. It is close to various national parks and mountain regions where you can hike and camp.
You can also enjoy lots of Thailand’s festivals like Yi-Peng, or the Chiang Mai Flower Festival -the gorgeous and deservingly loved flower parade. Another alternative relaxed area to live in Thailand is Koh Samui. You will appreciate the natural beauty and the amenities on the island.
Visa
Just like most other countries, you need a Visa to live in Thailand. The various kinds of visas give you different rights while living in the country.
Final remarks
Thailand is a gorgeous and diverse country that offers an enthrallingly unique juxtaposition of the super modern and the traditional. We hope you have a glimpse of what to look forward to.
That’s a very informative and helpful post. Would love to visit Thailand sometime
Happy to help! I hope you will find the info useful for your trip!
When I was in my early twenties, I considered moving to Thailand, primarily to Phuket, because there are so many exciting things to do there. It’s also closer to the Phi Phi Islands, which is one of my dream destinations.
Seems like a good plan, what about Phuket that draws you in?
Very useful information for those who want to live in Thailand. It is a wonderful country and I hope to visit someday.
happy to help, and I do believe you will have a great time in Thailand like I did!
very interesting! i know a lot about Thailand as a place to travel to but very little (before today) about actually living in there
Thank you Lyosha and happy that you had a great time with it!
I’ve been to Bangkok twice and I can say that my experiences was all amazing! I can see myself living there in the future coz the lifestyle is similar to the Philippines, except the language but it doesn’t bother me at all. The Thais are one of the kindest people I’ve met.
That’s wonderful to know, where did you go in Thailand what is your favourite part?