Thinking about moving to Rayong? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Rayong.
Rayong, a charming city located on the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and bustling markets. While it may not be as popular as Bangkok or Phuket, Rayong offers a unique blend of urban and rural living that attracts both locals and expats. However, like any other city, living in Rayong comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of living in this Thai city, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what life in Rayong is truly like.
Pros of Living in Rayong
One of the biggest advantages of living in Rayong is its proximity to some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. Unlike the crowded beaches of Pattaya or Phuket, the beaches in Rayong such as Mae Ram Phueng Beach and Laem Mae Phim Beach are relatively quiet and unspoiled, providing a perfect escape for those who love the sea and sand.
Another advantage of living in Rayong is the cost of living. Compared to larger cities like Bangkok, the cost of living in Rayong is significantly lower. From housing and utilities to food and transportation, everything is more affordable here. For instance, you can rent a decent one-bedroom apartment in the city center for as low as 10,000 Baht per month, which is almost half the price you would pay in Bangkok.
Rayong is also home to a number of international schools such as St. Andrews International School and Garden International School, making it an ideal place for expats with children. These schools offer high-quality education and follow international curriculums, ensuring that your children will receive the best possible education.
For those who love shopping, Rayong has plenty to offer. The city is home to several shopping malls such as Central Plaza Rayong and Passione Shopping Destination, where you can find a wide range of products from local and international brands. In addition, there are numerous local markets such as the Rayong Fresh Market and the Ban Phe Market where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies at affordable prices.
Lastly, Rayong offers a slower pace of life compared to other Thai cities. The city is less crowded and less polluted, making it a great place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Despite its slower pace, Rayong still has plenty to offer in terms of entertainment and leisure activities. From water sports and golfing to spa treatments and yoga retreats, there’s always something to do in Rayong.
Cons of Living in Rayong, Thailand
Despite its many advantages, living in Rayong also has its downsides. One of the biggest disadvantages is the language barrier. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and international schools, it’s not commonly used in local shops, markets, and government offices. This can make everyday tasks such as shopping or dealing with bureaucracy a challenge for expats who don’t speak Thai.
Another downside of living in Rayong is the lack of public transportation. While there are songthaews (shared taxis) and motorbike taxis available, they are not as reliable or convenient as the BTS or MRT in Bangkok. This means that having your own vehicle is almost a necessity in Rayong.
While Rayong has a number of international schools, the options for higher education are limited. There are a few universities in the city, but they don’t offer the same range of courses or the same level of prestige as universities in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. This can be a disadvantage for families with older children or for those who are considering furthering their own education.
Another disadvantage of living in Rayong is the lack of cultural and entertainment options compared to larger cities. While Rayong has its fair share of restaurants, bars, and shopping malls, it doesn’t have the same variety or quantity of cultural attractions, nightlife venues, or entertainment options as cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
Lastly, while Rayong’s slower pace of life can be a pro for some, it can also be a con for others. Those who are used to the hustle and bustle of city life may find Rayong too quiet or too slow. In addition, while Rayong is less crowded than other Thai cities, it can still get quite busy during peak tourist season, which can lead to increased traffic and higher prices.
