Digital nomads rank Bangkok as the best city to work remotely – this is why…

The Instant Group, a UK-based flexible working solutions provider, recently ranked Bangkok the second best city for working remotely – after Lisbon.

The reasons Bangkok ranks as a top destination for digital nomads include affordability, broadband speed, weather, scenery, transportation, and cuisine.

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VIDEO – “This is why digital nomads rank Bangkok as the best city to work remotely” – Pariyakorn “Smuk” Chamniprasertkul, Head of Banana Thai Language School, offers city insights and tips about Thai culture.

Average wages for Thai office workers

For Thai workers in the tech industry, salaries are low compared to their counterparts from other world regions. Entry-level wages for Thais working as graphic designers can be as low as 20,000 baht ($542) per month, for web developers 37,000 ($1,003), and for software developers 51,000 ($1,383). Thais working for foreign companies have an opportunity for higher salaries, especially compared to Thailand’s cost of living.

WiFi costs compared to the US

On average, WiFi costs in Thailand are 630 baht per month ($17.18) compared to 2,492 baht ($67.96) in the US. This makes working in Thailand more desirable for those wanting to work from home and cuts spending. In addition, while membership and daily costs are associated with coworking spaces in Bangkok, most cafes offer free WiFi. Working outside of home is a good way to avoid high electricity bills from running air-conditioning frequently.

Top 5 coworking spaces and price estimates

• Glowfish: Fancy decor for 12,000 baht per month for a fixed desk.
• True Digital Park: Modern layout with over 250 workstations and daily, monthly, or even yearly rates.
• Hubba: 24-hour coworking space that starts around 5,700 baht per month.
• The Hive: Locations in 22 areas across Asia, and prices start at 8,000 baht per month.
• WeWork: Another global conglomerate coworking space with four locations in Bangkok.

BTS stats

After a sharp drop in ridership during the pandemic, the BTS Skytrain has returned to 70% of its daily ridership in 2022. Before the pandemic, daily riders averaged 800,000. The BTS is a convenient and inexpensive way to avoid traffic in Bangkok, although it’s best to avoid peak times during rush hour if possible. Fares range from 15 baht to around 65 baht for single tickets.

Top neighborhoods for remote work

Ari

Ari is a small but hip local neighborhood not far from the city center. It has a mixture of trendy cafes and street vendors, making it possible for people on various budgets to enjoy. The neighborhood is popular with middle- and upper-class Thais and some foreigners.

On Nut

On Nut is a buzzy yet affordable neighborhood not far from more expensive areas such as Thong Lo. Although it’s quite popular with expats, it has a local neighborhood feel, with endless options for cheap eats. Long-term expats and remote workers are drawn to the area for its cheap apartments, plentiful transportation options, access to supermarkets, and proximity to central Bangkok.

Asok

A most-popular area for expats in Bangkok. Why?

• Its central location and access to central offices in Bangkok, BTS Skytrain, and MRT
• Easy access to malls and shops
• Proximity to large parks, such as Benjakitti
• Nightlife activities
• Relative affordability compared to more upscale neighborhoods nearby

Road Trips

One-day trips from Bangkok

• Ayutthaya
• Khao Yai National Park
• Koh Samed Island
• Kanchanaburi
• Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Renting a car

Renting a car can be a good option for those who want to escape Bangkok crowds to nearby destinations. Prices can be as low as 552 baht ($15) to 737 baht ($20) per day and 16,500 baht ($450) for a month. Drivers should have an international license to avoid issues with Thai police checkpoints.

Learning Thai

For foreigners seeking to connect with local culture and learn the Thai language, BananaThai is a Thai online school introducing a new way of understanding the Thai language and culture through integrating online platforms and innovative tools. With quality content, innovative learning materials, and free learning sources, you can learn Thai with Kru Smuk (teacher Smuk) in the most flexible, enjoyable, and effective way. Click on any of the social media links below to get started!

SMART VISA info and link

The Smart Visa is a new type of visa specially designed to attract a highly skilled workforce, investors, executives, and startup entrepreneurs wishing to work or invest in the following targeted industries in the Kingdom of Thailand. Smart Visa holders will be granted 4-year permission to stay, exemption from the work permit requirement, and additional privileges.

Some of the targeted industries include:

• Next-Generation Automotive
• Affluent, Medical and Wellness Tourism
• Agriculture and Biotechnology
• Aviation and Logistics
• Biofuels and Biochemicals
• Digital

Visit this link for other industries included and general information.

ABOUT KRU SMUK

The Borderless Office – Philip Beere