Moving to Bangkok Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Moving to Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) offers a vibrant and dynamic experience that's truly unique. While challenges like overcrowding and traffic congestion exist, they're balanced by the city's incredible energy and rich cultural tapestry. From bustling markets to diverse communities, Bangkok promises endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

While there may be some environmental concerns, efforts are underway to address them, and the city's green spaces provide oases of tranquility amidst the urban hustle. Embracing Bangkok's fast-paced lifestyle and diverse offerings will quickly make you feel at home in the Land of Smiles.

Read on to learn more specifics regarding moving to Bangkok so that we can help you adjust to your new life.

🚀 Expat Trivia!

April-international says factors such as money, safety, amenities, and location should be considered when moving to Bangkok.

Essential Things to Consider Before Relocating to Bangkok

You need to know where you will be going before moving your family and searching for accommodation in Bangkok. Relocating to a different nation often comes with its own set of difficulties. If you allow it, adjusting to a new lifestyle or attempting to maintain your previous way of life in your new environment may be rather difficult.

However, if you take the time to get to know your new environment, you'll be more likely to turn the relocation from a hassle into an exciting and enlightening journey. Here is what you should know to facilitate and enjoy your transition to this vibrant metropolis:

#1 General Information About Bangkok

The larger Bangkok area includes many neighborhoods and smaller areas. The vast city is home to almost 12 million people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Most of the city's business districts are located in the Sathorn and Sukhumvit neighborhoods.

If you're looking for a place to call home, the Sathorn and Sukhumvit regions have many serviced apartments. Bangkok has two airports. The primary international airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, is located approximately thirty minutes east of Bangkok's downtown. Budget and charter airlines are the primary users of Don Muang Airport, which is located roughly thirty minutes to the north of the city. 

#2 Shopping in Bangkok

Bangkok is a haven for shoppers. Many people from neighboring Asian nations schedule frequent shopping trips to Bangkok. Both the Sathorn and Sukhumvit neighborhoods of the city are home to many upscale name brands and boutiques. For discounts on apparel, gadgets, shoes, and other items and wares, visit Chinatown or the night markets. 

You can rent a serviced apartment in Sathorn to take advantage of all the fascinating and enjoyable things a family can do in Bangkok. 

#3 Bangkok's Electrical Power

The standard for electrical power in Asia, including Thailand, is 240 volts. If you are traveling to Bangkok from the United States, you will also need to pack adaptors for any electronic appliances you plan to bring into the nation.

Most phone and computer chargers can take 120 and 240 volts, so an additional adaptor is not usually needed.

#4 Locations

Plenty of apartments in Bangkok are available for monthly rental in the neighborhoods surrounding Sathorn and Sukhumvit. They range from studios to three-bedroom flats and offer an incredible array of amenities and facilities. 

The most sought-after locations are in the Sathorn and Sukhumvit neighborhoods, along the MRT and BTS Skytrain lines.

#5 Living Expenses in Bangkok

The difference in the cost of living in Bangkok compared to your home country will probably surprise you. For the monthly cost of serviced apartments in Bangkok, you can rent a larger apartment than you intended or save this money to improve your own lifestyle.

The cost of renting an apartment, as well as that of food, medicine, and transportation, is far less than that of most Western nations. Thanks to the features and amenities provided by upscale serviced apartments like Bangkok Garden, you'll realize that you will save money by simply relocating to an apartment and utilizing all the amenities and services provided. 

#6 Visa and Documentation

To work in Thailand, you will need a non-B visa and a work permit. Your employer must sponsor these documents for the duration of your employment contract; otherwise, you cannot remain in Thailand.

If the flat has a one-year lease requirement, these documents are also required to rent the apartment. You may also need to open a local bank account to make regular local transactions while you're in Thailand.

#7 Entertainment in Bangkok

Bangkok and its environs provide many entertainment opportunities suitable for all age groups. The city has plenty of theaters, clubs, restaurants, and stage shows for adults.

Weekend trips to Thailand's tropical beaches are available from the neighboring resort cities of Hua Hin and Pattaya. For families with children, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor playgrounds, water parks, aquariums, zoos, theme parks, and bike paths in and around Bangkok.

#8 Transportation and Traffic

Bangkok traffic can be very congested during rush hour. However, the city has created some alternative modes of transportation that make moving about the city easy, especially during rush hour. The city features two contemporary rail public transportation systems, which include the BTS Skytrain and the MRT system, as well as taxis, buses, motorbike taxis, and even water taxis along the river and canals.

These two systems link The two business areas, making the remainder of the city easily accessible. The systems are expanding and will soon provide more access to Bangkok's most remote areas. The majority of foreign residents in Bangkok choose to live in the neighborhoods served by these two rail transportation networks.

#9 Language and Some Basic Thai

Moving to Bangkok can be difficult for foreigners who don't speak Thai. Fortunately, English is the second most widely spoken language. An English translation is included on many city signage. A large portion of Bangkok's population received their education at one of several foreign schools in the city, which emphasize fluency in English as a prerequisite.

However, knowing the basics of Thai will help you have a more comfortable stay in Bangkok. Thai people are courteous. Returning their courtesy will ease your life and allow you to form friendships with the locals. Tonal languages like Thai are gender-specific. For example, depending on the gender of the person speaking, there are two ways to greet them. While men would say "Khap khun khap," women would speak the gentler "Khaa khun khaa."

Since many of the streets and alleys in the city have numbers, becoming familiar with the numbers in Thai will make navigation easier. Additionally, it will also make purchasing at the neighborhood markets easier.

🚀 Did you know?

Schmidt Movers estimates that there are about 24,000 Americans residing in Bangkok.

Get Ready for a Different Way of Bangkok Life!

Foreigners moving halfway around the world to a foreign nation will inevitably encounter a new way of life. Ensure you research your destination, read about other people's experiences, and gain cultural knowledge before arriving in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok).

When you embark on this journey, remember not to believe everything you read online and keep an open mind.

Get Rid of Prejudice

According to renowned German author Goethe, "Ignorance in action is the most frightening thing." This is why you should go out on this adventure guided by curiosity and knowledge rather than ignorance and bigotry. Prejudice is difficult to overcome. You may have heard many opinions about Thai people, yet the majority of them may simply be people's inflated perceptions.

You should dispel the first myth: that not everyone in this place is impoverished. This developing nation may have some disparity, but not everyone is financially disadvantaged. Furthermore, not every food is hot. Yes, they use spices that some foreigners don't typically use, but the Thai cuisine won't feel overly spicy once you get used to the flavor. Lastly, not all brands are phony; you may shop and find luxury brands here.

Developing Relationships is a Two-Way Street

Learning about the locals and assimilating into the culture are two-way processes. Once you get to know them, you can share information about your hometown. If you find yourself getting nostalgic, talking about your country may help. After all, the inviting and friendly atmosphere of the city will make it simple to make friends here.

Available Jobs in Bangkok for Expats

Bangkok has always attracted foreigners due to its thriving economy, sophisticated yet reasonably priced standard of living, and opportunity to embrace a more relaxed lifestyle. Many foreign nationals may relocate to Bangkok due to employment transfers to regional subsidiaries or positions with multinational companies with headquarters in Thailand. 

Foreigners find work more frequently in educational institutions. This is a common position in the various English-language schools in the city, which range from kindergarten to high school. It also includes working for foreign organizations.

Your first objective should be finding employment in Bangkok before scheduling travel. You can be confident that you'll have a safe starting point for your journey if you take this precaution before making the big move to Bangkok. 

Bangkok Awaits Your Move Today!

Moving to Bangkok opens doors to one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic cities, where contrasts abound. From political complexity to rich cultural heritage, poverty juxtaposes economic prosperity, and urban chaos harmonizes with Thai warmth and hospitality.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition, acquaint yourself with Bangkok's background and lifestyle before your move. Securing employment in advance should be your priority, providing a stable foundation for your journey into this vibrant metropolis.

By taking this crucial step, you'll set yourself up for a safe and confident start to your Bangkok adventure.