Lifestyle in Bangkok

Bangkok is a feast of sights and sounds. Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shopping malls, open markets, golf courses, temples, parks and an array of exotic scents all combine to make up the lifestyle in Bangkok. New and established expats will find that the lifestyle in Bangkok offers them plenty to see and do.

A weekend in Bangkok can fly by in a blur, and whether a foreign resident takes the tourist route through the city's countless side streets or prefers to settle in and rub shoulders with the locals, there's never a dull moment. 

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Shopping in Bangkok

From trinkets found at the city’s famous floating markets to high-end fashion, Bangkok has it all when it comes to shopping. Expats merely have to decide if they are in the mood to trawl street stalls for the perfect bargain, or if they'd prefer the easy access of mega malls which house everything from cinemas to bowling alleys and even the odd aquarium.

For fans of shopping malls, an entire weekend in Bangkok can be spent at Siam Paragon, which is easily accessible by the BTS Sky Train. Other major malls are Iconsiam, CentralWorld and CentralPlaza WestGate.

Those after a more authentic shopping experience can try out Bangkok’s ever-popular open markets. Chatuchak Weekend Market, said to be one of the world’s largest flea markets, provides excellent value for everything unusual and unique that the country has to offer. 

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Nightlife in Bangkok

Bangkok comes to life at night, and new arrivals eager to spend a weekend in the city will have no trouble finding a variety of vibrant entertainment venues to pop into. Whether expats want to let their hair down and dance the night away or prefer to sip on cocktails at sophisticated rooftop bars, there's something for everyone in Bangkok. Sukhumvit is popular with expats and tourists alike, while Royal City Avenue tends to be frequented by a more local crowd.

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Eating out in Bangkok

Locals in Bangkok are passionate about food. It won't be long before expats begin to understand what food means to the locals and to appreciate the amazing variety in Bangkok. Whether a streetside noodle dish with homemade broth or a local vendor concocting spicy somtam, a plethora of exciting dishes are available, tasty and reasonably priced.

Naturally, every expat experiences a yearning for different options or something that tastes like home, Bangkok happily obliges with a host of bars and restaurants offering good quality international dining options, but at much higher prices.

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Sports and outdoor activities in Bangkok

Dotted around Bangkok are a few green parks which offer residents the chance to enjoy a picnic, paddle around the pond, walk the dog, play with their children, or simply take a break from the rushed pace of city living.

Bangkok is the perfect place to try Muay Thai, a form of Thai boxing. Those wanting to escape the soaring outdoor temperatures will find several reputable gyms and yoga studios throughout Bangkok. There are also plenty of great cycling and running routes in and around the city.

Alternatively, those looking for something a bit different always have the option of heading out to a golf course. There are plenty of quality courses situated around Bangkok which offer excellent value for money.

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Where to meet people and make friends in Bangkok

One of the most daunting parts of moving to a new city is making connections and building relationships with new people. Below are a few suggestions for expats looking to meet new people in Bangkok. 

New Zealand Society Thailand

Established in 1976, the New Zealand Society Thailand hosts a variety of cultural, sporting and social events for Kiwis living in Bangkok to connect with their culture. 

AFL Bangkok Casuals League

The AFL Bangkok Casuals League is the most popular expat amateur league in Thailand. Expats of all fitness and experience levels are welcome to join and build lifelong friendships with both locals and expats. 

Bangkok Mothers and Babies International (BAMBI)

BAMBI is a non-profit volunteer organisation providing an opportunity for connection for expecting mothers and mothers with young children of all nationalities. The group provides pre- and post-natal support while also organising playgroups and activities for young children around the city. 

Bangkok Toastmasters Club

Expats who would like to develop their communication and leadership skills while building relationships with people from all over the world will love the Bangkok Toastmasters Club. This non-profit organisation offers a supportive environment for its members to nurture their public speaking skills.