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Expat Exchange - The Essential Guide to Rayong 2024
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The Essential Guide to Rayong

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Our Guide to Rayong: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Welcome to Rayong! If you're planning to move to Rayong, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Rayong has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Rayong.

Rayong, is a charming city that offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most popular sites is the Rayong Aquarium, a public aquarium that houses a variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and colorful tropical fish. The aquarium also features a tunnel tank, where visitors can walk through and observe the marine life from all angles. Another popular attraction is the Wat Pa Pradu, a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple is known for its unique reclining Buddha statue, which is laid on its left side, unlike most reclining Buddha statues that are laid on their right side.

For nature lovers, the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park is a must-visit. The park covers a large area of land and sea and includes the beautiful Samet Island. The park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The Rayong Botanic Garden is another great place for nature enthusiasts. It's a wetland preserve that's home to a variety of plant and animal species, and it offers walking trails and bird-watching opportunities.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Rayong is vibrant and diverse. One of the most popular restaurants in the city is Laem Charoen Seafood, which has been serving delicious seafood dishes since 1979. The restaurant's signature dish is deep-fried sea bass with fish sauce, a must-try for seafood lovers. Another popular restaurant is Tamnanpar Restaurant, a beautiful, jungle-themed restaurant that serves a variety of Thai and international dishes.

For those who enjoy nightlife, there are several bars and clubs in Rayong. The Jazz Bar is a popular spot that offers live music, a great selection of drinks, and a cozy atmosphere. For those who prefer a more lively scene, the Taphouse Rayong is a popular pub that offers a wide selection of beers and cocktails, as well as live music and DJ sets. The Purple Haze Bar is another popular spot, known for its friendly staff, great music, and delicious cocktails.

Recreational activities in Rayong are plentiful and cater to a wide range of interests. For those who enjoy water sports, Rayong offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, particularly around Samet Island. The island is part of the Khao Laem Ya-Mu Ko Samet National Park and is known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Diving and snorkeling tours are available from various operators in the city.

For those who prefer land-based activities, the Rayong Botanic Garden offers walking trails and bird-watching opportunities. The garden is a wetland preserve and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Golfing is another popular activity in Rayong, with several excellent golf courses in and around the city. The Rayong Green Valley Country Club is one of the most popular, known for its beautiful setting and challenging course. The St. Andrews 2000 Golf Club is another excellent choice, offering a challenging course and stunning views.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Rayong: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Rayong often join various clubs and activities to socialize and meet new people. These include sports clubs such as golf, tennis, and badminton, where they can enjoy a game while making friends. There are also fitness clubs and gyms for those who prefer a more active lifestyle. For those interested in arts and culture, there are art classes, cooking classes, and language exchange groups where they can learn about Thai culture and language. Book clubs are also popular among expats who enjoy reading and discussing literature. Expats also participate in community service and volunteer work, which not only allows them to give back to the community but also provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats in Rayong often meet people through social events and gatherings. These can range from casual get-togethers at local bars and restaurants to more formal events such as embassy functions or international business networking events. Many expats also meet people through their work or their children's schools. International schools often have parent-teacher associations and organize events that provide opportunities for parents to meet and socialize. Online platforms and social media groups are also popular ways for expats to connect in Rayong. These platforms often have forums where expats can ask questions, share experiences, and arrange meetups. Lastly, simply exploring the city and frequenting local markets, shops, and cafes can also lead to unexpected encounters and friendships. The people of Rayong are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making it easy for expats to feel welcomed and integrated into the local community," said one expat living in Rayong.

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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Rayong is generally relaxed and peaceful. The city offers a slower pace of life compared to other major Thai cities, making it an ideal place for those who prefer a quieter environment. The cost of living is relatively low, allowing expats and digital nomads to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without spending a fortune. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, which provide a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. The local food is delicious and affordable, with a wide variety of Thai and international cuisines available. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and while English is not widely spoken, expats and digital nomads can get by with basic Thai phrases. The city also has a number of international schools, making it a suitable place for expats with families. For digital nomads, the city offers reliable internet connectivity, with numerous cafes and co-working spaces available. The city is also within easy reach of Bangkok, making it convenient for those who need to travel for work. Despite its peaceful ambiance, Rayong also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a number of bars and clubs where expats and digital nomads can socialize and meet new people. The city also has a number of shopping malls and markets, where one can buy everything from fresh produce to clothing and electronics. Healthcare in Rayong is of a high standard, with a number of hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of medical services. The city is also relatively safe, with low crime rates. Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Rayong, Thailand is comfortable, affordable, and enjoyable, offering a good balance between work and leisure," commented an expat living in Rayong.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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Cigna Global Health

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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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