Accommodation in Bangkok
Expat accommodation in Bangkok is highly varied. Though, no matter the family size or the type of home preferred, price and proximity are the two most important factors to take into consideration prior to arranging housing.
Horrendous commutes across the city are common, and traffic jams that regularly choke main roads inspire many expats working in the centre to live within close proximity to their place of business. The same line of reasoning applies to families that have children attending international schools.
A well run sky train (BTS) has helped to reduce commute times and has thus relieved the concerns of many expat communities, however, the BTS certainly does not reach all areas of Bangkok and often, commuting to the BTS can be as woeful as commuting to work.
Apartment living is as varied as Bangkok itself. Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments that more closely resemble hotels. These establishments usually come furnished and offer daily maid services and a staffed lobby area. Often they come with a small fitness centre and a pool.
Non-serviced apartments, similar to apartments in the West, are usually a less expensive option but often require a longer term commitment. These come in all styles and manners, and it is important to find quality, well run buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West. Apartments are limitlessly expensive in central areas, but bottom out at 450 USD a month for a studio or a low-quality 1-bedroom. Apartments farther away can start as low as 250 USD.
On the edges of the city, expat families can find Western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing communities prototypical of America. These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas - peaking in the heart of the city.
Expats in Bangkok favour accommodation in the Sukhemvit area.
It is illegal for foreigners to buy land in Thailand; although there are a number of loopholes which a realtor/estate agent can help you jump through. It is possible to buy condominiums, which range in price according to location and condition.
Commuting in Bangkok
Horrendous commutes across the city are common, and traffic jams that regularly choke main roads inspire many expats working in the centre to live within close proximity to their place of business. The same line of reasoning applies to families that have children attending international schools.
A well run sky train (BTS) has helped to reduce commute times and has thus relieved the concerns of many expat communities, however, the BTS certainly does not reach all areas of Bangkok and often, commuting to the BTS can be as woeful as commuting to work.
Types of accommodation in Bangkok
Apartment living is as varied as Bangkok itself. Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments that more closely resemble hotels. These establishments usually come furnished and offer daily maid services and a staffed lobby area. Often they come with a small fitness centre and a pool.
Non-serviced apartments, similar to apartments in the West, are usually a less expensive option but often require a longer term commitment. These come in all styles and manners, and it is important to find quality, well run buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West. Apartments are limitlessly expensive in central areas, but bottom out at 450 USD a month for a studio or a low-quality 1-bedroom. Apartments farther away can start as low as 250 USD.
On the edges of the city, expat families can find Western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing communities prototypical of America. These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas - peaking in the heart of the city.
Expats in Bangkok favour accommodation in the Sukhemvit area.
Buying property as an expat in Thailand
It is illegal for foreigners to buy land in Thailand; although there are a number of loopholes which a realtor/estate agent can help you jump through. It is possible to buy condominiums, which range in price according to location and condition.
