Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world, and more and more foreigners are looking to relocate to the tropical paradise known as Thailand, or the Land of Smiles, as it is commonly called. Many digital entrepreneurs flock to Bangkok because it has everything they need, plus Thailand has a low cost of living, which is very attractive.
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Real Estate
Whether renting or buying, there are some great condo developments in the City of Angels; the River Condominium for sale has some fine units with luxury fixtures and fittings. Most expats start out with a rental condo for 1 year, which gives them time to find the right area to purchase a unit. Of course, location is everything, and alongside the Chao Phraya River is the best possible location for investment properties. Foreigners are not permitted to own land in Thailand, yet they are allowed to own condo units 100%; you must show evidence that the funds come from abroad.
Getting Around
The BTS system covers most areas of Bangkok, and it is fast, affordable and comfortable; regarding long-distance travel, there are luxury a/c coaches that run to every corner of the kingdom. Taxis are everywhere in Bangkok, and they come in many different colours: pink, orange, yellow and a green/yellow combination, which denotes that the car is driver-owned. The latter is preferred, as the driver is less likely to try to negotiate the fare.
Bangkok Canal Network
The network of canals is extensive, and most foreigners are unaware that it even exists; it is great to spend a day exploring the canals by catching river boats and getting off at random. You can see how the Thai people live by the canal, and you will see happy children who wave to you. Thais use canal boats during the rush hour because they can get to work on time. Click here for questions to ask when renting an apartment in Bangkok.
Crossing the Street
One must be very careful when crossing the street; if there is an overhead bridge, use that to cross, and even when you are on a pedestrian crossing, do not automatically assume that cars are going to stop. There have been quite a few accidents when an expat is using a designated pedestrian crossing and ends up in a collision with a bike or a car. If you come from Europe or the US, the traffic in Bangkok will come from your right, not your left, so be very careful.
Bangkok Entertainment
Known worldwide, there are a few forms of entertainment in the city that never sleeps; high-class clubs can be found in Thong Lor, there are bars and discos in or near Khao San Road, while there are top-notch jazz clubs and tech discos that go on until the early mornings. The go-go bar areas in Nana Entertainment Plaza and Patpong are always busy from 10 pm onwards. Then there is Muay Thai, which takes place at Rajdamnuen Stadium and Lumphini Stadium, with each venue hosting 2 meetings per week. There are many top-class restaurants scattered around the city, and the Internet can help you find them.
Long-Term Visas
There was once a time when you could keep applying for tourist visas; however, this is now limited to 2 entries per year. For those who wish to stay long-term, there are business visas. Those who marry a Thai national can apply for a marriage visa that can be renewed annually; if you are aged 50 or over, you can obtain a retirement visa, which can be renewed within Thailand. We advise you to connect with a reputable visa agent, as they can assist you with the right visa. Never overstay your visa, as there are harsh penalties and you can end up with a 5-year ban, or even longer. Regardless of your visa type, every foreigner who stays longer than 90 days must register their address with Thai Immigration; you must do the first report in person, but after that, you can report online.
Health Insurance
Every foreigner should have at least basic medical insurance that covers them in the event of a medical emergency; search online, and you’ll find a list of Thai life insurers with a list of attractive packages to suit your lifestyle and needs. Google makes it easy to compare premiums and terms and conditions, then you can make an informed decision, and with a secure online payment, your cover is activated, and you have peace of mind. They offer expat-friendly family policies that are very popular, and check out the online reviews, as they are the only way to find out whether they pay out promptly.
Bangkok is one of the most popular cities on the planet, and no matter where you stay, the local people are warm and welcoming to foreigners.
