Post on 19-Mar-2016
description
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Expat gu idE Thailandincludes bang kok c i ty g u i de
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to thailand click on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
220
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to ThailandThailand is known as the worldrsquos tourist Eden but the country can also be expat paradise Finding a well paid job can
be difficult but for the fortunate expats who manage a luxurious lifestyle is part of the reward A warm and welcoming
culture beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience different customs make living in Thailand interesting and
settling
While most expats cluster in the crowded city of Bangkok some scatter across the northern regions such as Chiang Mai
and enjoy a quiet and more traditional Thai lifestyle More popular are the beach resorts of Krabi and Phuket where
tourism-related jobs and popular beaches lure fortunate working expats and retirees
Shipping and removalsWhen shipping to Thailand it is important to use a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the cargo There
are many eligible companies from all corners of the world although shipping outside of Bangkok will often be more
expensive Moving to inland cities will require a combination of land and sea transport and island homes will usually need
a series of boat transfers
It is a good idea to buy insurance from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
mdash imported goods can also be taxed Alternately it is often worthwhile to ship these items back to a home country upon
repatriation
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Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from
very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing
Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions
are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within
Thailand have a much lower salary
Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
420
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Cost of living
bull Language
bull Local customs
bull Tipping
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from
its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and
is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is
accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments
Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are
unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from
women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is
also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on
Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King
One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in
Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected
hurdles to life in Thailand
Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries
equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can
live in or visit daily
Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than
renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and
you are not expected to pay the first asking price
LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach
Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that
drug traffickers risk the death penalty
TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is
becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
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Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
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Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
220
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Moving to ThailandThailand is known as the worldrsquos tourist Eden but the country can also be expat paradise Finding a well paid job can
be difficult but for the fortunate expats who manage a luxurious lifestyle is part of the reward A warm and welcoming
culture beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience different customs make living in Thailand interesting and
settling
While most expats cluster in the crowded city of Bangkok some scatter across the northern regions such as Chiang Mai
and enjoy a quiet and more traditional Thai lifestyle More popular are the beach resorts of Krabi and Phuket where
tourism-related jobs and popular beaches lure fortunate working expats and retirees
Shipping and removalsWhen shipping to Thailand it is important to use a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the cargo There
are many eligible companies from all corners of the world although shipping outside of Bangkok will often be more
expensive Moving to inland cities will require a combination of land and sea transport and island homes will usually need
a series of boat transfers
It is a good idea to buy insurance from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
mdash imported goods can also be taxed Alternately it is often worthwhile to ship these items back to a home country upon
repatriation
320
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Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from
very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing
Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions
are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within
Thailand have a much lower salary
Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
420
contact uscall us on
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
520
contact uscall us on
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Cost of living
bull Language
bull Local customs
bull Tipping
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from
its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and
is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is
accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments
Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are
unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from
women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is
also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on
Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King
One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in
Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected
hurdles to life in Thailand
Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries
equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can
live in or visit daily
Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than
renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and
you are not expected to pay the first asking price
LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach
Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that
drug traffickers risk the death penalty
TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is
becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped
620
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
720
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
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Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
320
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Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from
very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing
Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions
are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within
Thailand have a much lower salary
Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Cost of living
bull Language
bull Local customs
bull Tipping
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from
its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and
is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is
accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments
Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are
unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from
women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is
also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on
Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King
One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in
Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected
hurdles to life in Thailand
Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries
equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can
live in or visit daily
Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than
renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and
you are not expected to pay the first asking price
LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach
Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that
drug traffickers risk the death penalty
TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is
becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped
620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
820
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Cost of living
bull Language
bull Local customs
bull Tipping
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from
its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and
is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is
accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments
Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are
unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from
women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is
also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on
Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King
One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in
Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected
hurdles to life in Thailand
Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries
equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can
live in or visit daily
Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than
renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and
you are not expected to pay the first asking price
LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach
Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that
drug traffickers risk the death penalty
TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is
becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped
620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
820
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
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See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
520
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Cost of living
bull Language
bull Local customs
bull Tipping
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from
its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and
is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is
accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments
Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are
unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from
women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is
also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on
Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King
One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in
Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected
hurdles to life in Thailand
Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries
equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can
live in or visit daily
Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than
renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and
you are not expected to pay the first asking price
LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach
Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that
drug traffickers risk the death penalty
TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is
becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped
620
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
720
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
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See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
620
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These
can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular
with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
720
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
820
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
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Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
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Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
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LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
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See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
720
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Health guide for expats
dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand
Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions
and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments
away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have
relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others
are unique to this region
An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy
borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the
environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone
through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses
such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the
government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has
largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in
particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air
quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation
(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts
If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and
air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay
indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to
improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter
such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body
The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive
cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making
the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital
HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since
the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown
massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas
accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in
Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically
reduced by using a condom
Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national
response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and
evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national
non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat
the further spread of this disease
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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
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Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
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Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission
through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater
risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary
tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce
needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial
My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles
Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat
There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from
the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but
with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would
be wise to remain cautious
Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry
Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food
market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from
it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the
market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are
cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from
eating cooked food
But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The
favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your
health to actually improve
920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Below you will find
bull A summary of useful information
bull Embassy contact details
bull Useful links
Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours
Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang
(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here
Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are
used
Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats
are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks
can be dangerous as is highway traffic
The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and
outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok
There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be
particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated
areas in national parks
Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious
The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel
to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area
Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place
throughout the country including Bangkok
There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season
in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and
central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check
conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving
Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check
and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly
income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand
Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is
possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are
ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help
Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang
Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available
throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use
GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts
Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal
change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a
seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation
For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to
February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less
predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season
The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost
twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas
Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises
as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the
hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)
Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies
bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600
bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500
bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444
bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100
bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470
bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616
Foreign Embassies in Thailand
bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000
bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333
bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540
bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300
bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900
bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500
bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530
Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand
bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom
bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom
bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm
bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom
bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources
bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom
bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm
bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom
1 1 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 1 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Expat gu idE Bangkok
this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights
You can also read our expat guide to thailand
Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA
Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 2 20
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international
city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has
continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities
Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can
find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be
able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun
Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high
traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a
weary eye on protests
Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance
from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage
Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 320
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about
bull Visas and work permits
bull Banking money and taxes
bull Business culture
bull Public holidays
Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political
environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international
companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre
Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export
import companies management and manufacturing
In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their
company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with
accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style
etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)
Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be
accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay
Work permits can be extended
Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main
branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by
those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs
to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation
Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less
than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed
on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into
Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual
income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)
Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often
in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start
employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods
Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and
bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames
preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the
hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly
Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1420
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Public holidays
2011 2012
New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan
Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar
Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr
Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr
National Labour Day 1 May 1 May
Coronation Day 5 May 5 May
Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun
Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug
HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug
Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct
HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec
Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec
New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 520
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
LivingBelow you will find information about
bull Accommodation
bull Areas and suburbs
bull Children in Bangkok
bull Language
bull Safety
bull Health concerns
bull Transport
bull Weather
For information about Bupa International healthcare click here
Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local
charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern
liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they
may have in their home country
Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services
and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less
expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run
buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West
On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing
communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas
Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that
make life more convenient
Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city
centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums
good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and
having access to so many amenities is an attractive option
The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been
re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in
some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to
have to constantly dodge curious questions
Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life
(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by
themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent
Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value
there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1620
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links
bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom
bull Thaiapartmentcom
Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into
many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and
south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the
fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation
The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-
side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city
Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and
activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular
communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours
LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak
English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary
words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city
SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and
scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if
they stay clear of protests
Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else
Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving
to Thailand Read the health guide for expats
TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are
regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies
and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances
WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May
are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is
common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella
Bang KoK
Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp
Tem
pera
ture
(˚C)
Rain
fall
(mm
)
340
272
204
136
69
0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
60
48
36
24
12
0
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 720
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
See and doBelow you will find information about
bull Lifestyle
bull See and do
bull Attractions for kids
bull Restaurants
bull Annual events
Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all
persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to
There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit
clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and
electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls
Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of
more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San
road has popular local bars
See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family
and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet
The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic
Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long
and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942
The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was
shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th
century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more
traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and
stop to sample before you buy
Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view
the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple
is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280
Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling
weird and wonderful wares
Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge
dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state
occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1 820
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in
1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom
Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made
from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501
Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in
1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166
Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are
plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at
one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life
at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled
at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)
RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its
plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown
is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu
serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire
Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification
and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the
local cultural festivities
Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in
its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers
Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is
said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to
cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
1920
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally
uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend
private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than
international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the
student body
International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American
Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has
75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards
bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth
bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu
bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom
bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth
This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites
2020
contact uscall us on
+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you
2020
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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306
Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than
7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you
receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to
take the hassle of reimbursement away from you
In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the
medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month
The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round
Our services include
bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals
bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical
bull Appointment booking
bull Direct settlement with providers
bull Evacuation services
MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in
touch with us wherever they are in the world
On MembersWorld you can
bull View your plan
bull Update personal details
bull Track the progress of your claims
bull Make payments online
bull Search our international hospital directory
bull Download claim forms and other useful documents
bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service
MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here
You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook
Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health
content and news
Contact us to discuss how we can help you