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Hua Hin Night Market (Hua Hin, Thailand)

Living in Thailand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 04, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Thailand is 69 million people. The largest cities in Thailand are Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, Hat Yai, and Chiang Mai. Expats love living in Thailand for its tropical climate, friendly people, and low cost of living. People describe life in Thailand as relaxed, laid-back, and full of adventure. Popular foods in Thailand include Thai curries, noodles, and rice dishes. Popular snacks include mango sticky rice, fried bananas, and coconut ice cream. The cons of living in Thailand include the language barrier, the lack of public transportation, and the hot and humid climate. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.

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What do I need to know about living in Thailand?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Thailand, they said:

"It is important for expats to understand and abide by Thai laws and customs to avoid any trouble. Expats should also be prepared for a different climate than their home countries and ensure they have all necessary medical supplies. Expats should research the cost of living and research the various towns and cities to ensure they choose the best place when settling. It is also important to open a bank account for transfer of funds and for expats to understand the taxation laws in Thailand. Additionally, expats should note that English is not widely spoken outside of large cities; knowing the local language can be beneficial. It is important to research Thai visas and health care options to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, expats should consider creating a budget and seeking professional advice so they can manage finances effectively in retirement," explained one expat living in Thailand.

"Find a good place to live - you'll need it in this city. Do not plan too much in the beginning. Take things easy, read a lot about Thai culture and the city," said one expat in Bangkok.

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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.

Hua Hin Night Market (Hua Hin, Thailand)

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