12 Tips for Living in Bangkok, Thailand

By retirementrebel

An expat in Bangkok, Thailand talks about expat life in Bangkok - with its lower cost of living, warm weather, good hospitals, grocery shopping, Bangkokians love of food and more.

Why people move to Bangkok?

Bangkok is thriving, exciting city of 9 million with a low cost of living and no cold weather! It is also a hub for Asia with inexpensive flights almost anywhere.

Cost of Living in Bangkok

I currently rent a nice 2 bedroom condo right off the BTS line. My rent, phone, internet, cable and electricity comes to about $900USD and so with food and transportation I live very nicely for around $1300.00USD

Meeting People in Bangkok

I belong to the American Women's Club of Thailand. They offer many activities as well as charitable events. There are many other clubs eager to welcome new members.

International Schools in Bangkok

I have no school aged children and have no info on this.

Grocery Stores in Bangkok

I am lucky enough to have both a Tesco Lotus and a Big C right by me, with several fresh markets also. If you must have your expensive food imports from home, there is Villa market on Sukhumwit. 7/11 stores are everywhere with many heat and eat foods available.

Public Transportation

I use the BTS every day, it runs about every 6 minutes I think 5 am to midnight. There is also the MRT underground and a very large bus system. All are safe and inexpensive.

Bankok's Three Seasons

There are 3 seasons - Very hot, rainy and humid, and nicely warm.

Restaurants in Bangkok

Bangkokians live to eat! There are more choices from street food to mid-priced restaurants to high end eateries than almost anywhere in the world.

Hospitals & Healthcare in Bangkok

Closest hospital is about 3 miles, do not have current info on it. There are 2 private hospitals that are like staying in a 5 star hotel not far away.

Recreation

Bangkok has too many choices to list, there are many large public parks and 5 National parks close to here.

Visa & Immigration

I am on a retirement visa for 1 year with extensions. Thailand rules change each year but with my visa I only need to check in with immigration every 90 days and do not have to make a border run.

Crime in Bangkok

I have never not felt safe in Bangkok and just use common sense. I have taken public transport late at night and never worried about safety.