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Thailand & Bangkok

Date post: 19-Mar-2016
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Moving useful info useful info benefits Living this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to thailand. click on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights. Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa, and we have operations in UK, Denmark, USA, Spain, France, Hong Kong, Egypt, UAE and Australia. send an email enquiry request a call back call us on +44 (0) 1273 718 306 1/20
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1/20 CONTACT US CALL US ON +44 (0) 1273 718 306 EXPAT GUIDE: THAILAND INCLUDES BANGKOK CITY GUIDE This guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Thailand. Click on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights. Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa, and we have operations in UK, Denmark, USA, Spain, France, Hong Kong, Egypt, UAE and Australia. We care for the lives in our hands, and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services, help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health. Our dedicated team respects everyone’s individuality, culture, privacy and dignity, and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership.
Transcript
Page 1: Thailand & Bangkok

1 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Thailandincludes bang kok c i ty g u i de

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to thailand click on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

220

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to ThailandThailand is known as the worldrsquos tourist Eden but the country can also be expat paradise Finding a well paid job can

be difficult but for the fortunate expats who manage a luxurious lifestyle is part of the reward A warm and welcoming

culture beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience different customs make living in Thailand interesting and

settling

While most expats cluster in the crowded city of Bangkok some scatter across the northern regions such as Chiang Mai

and enjoy a quiet and more traditional Thai lifestyle More popular are the beach resorts of Krabi and Phuket where

tourism-related jobs and popular beaches lure fortunate working expats and retirees

Shipping and removalsWhen shipping to Thailand it is important to use a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the cargo There

are many eligible companies from all corners of the world although shipping outside of Bangkok will often be more

expensive Moving to inland cities will require a combination of land and sea transport and island homes will usually need

a series of boat transfers

It is a good idea to buy insurance from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

mdash imported goods can also be taxed Alternately it is often worthwhile to ship these items back to a home country upon

repatriation

320

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Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from

very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing

Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions

are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within

Thailand have a much lower salary

Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Cost of living

bull Language

bull Local customs

bull Tipping

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from

its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and

is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is

accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments

Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are

unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from

women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is

also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on

Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King

One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in

Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected

hurdles to life in Thailand

Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries

equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can

live in or visit daily

Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than

renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and

you are not expected to pay the first asking price

LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach

Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that

drug traffickers risk the death penalty

TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is

becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped

620

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

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Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

820

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

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Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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Page 2: Thailand & Bangkok

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Moving to ThailandThailand is known as the worldrsquos tourist Eden but the country can also be expat paradise Finding a well paid job can

be difficult but for the fortunate expats who manage a luxurious lifestyle is part of the reward A warm and welcoming

culture beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience different customs make living in Thailand interesting and

settling

While most expats cluster in the crowded city of Bangkok some scatter across the northern regions such as Chiang Mai

and enjoy a quiet and more traditional Thai lifestyle More popular are the beach resorts of Krabi and Phuket where

tourism-related jobs and popular beaches lure fortunate working expats and retirees

Shipping and removalsWhen shipping to Thailand it is important to use a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the cargo There

are many eligible companies from all corners of the world although shipping outside of Bangkok will often be more

expensive Moving to inland cities will require a combination of land and sea transport and island homes will usually need

a series of boat transfers

It is a good idea to buy insurance from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

mdash imported goods can also be taxed Alternately it is often worthwhile to ship these items back to a home country upon

repatriation

320

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Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from

very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing

Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions

are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within

Thailand have a much lower salary

Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Cost of living

bull Language

bull Local customs

bull Tipping

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from

its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and

is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is

accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments

Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are

unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from

women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is

also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on

Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King

One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in

Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected

hurdles to life in Thailand

Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries

equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can

live in or visit daily

Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than

renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and

you are not expected to pay the first asking price

LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach

Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that

drug traffickers risk the death penalty

TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is

becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped

620

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

720

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

820

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 3: Thailand & Bangkok

320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in ThailandBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Many international companies are located in Bangkok Finance is the largest industry in the city but expats come from

very diverse work fields including teaching English exportimport companies management and manufacturing

Expat jobs outside of Bangkok usually involve the tourism industry such as hotel management Well paid expat positions

are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Thailand within their company Expats hired from within

Thailand have a much lower salary

Visa and work permitsThe first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxesBanks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business cultureIt is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Cost of living

bull Language

bull Local customs

bull Tipping

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from

its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and

is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is

accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments

Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are

unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from

women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is

also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on

Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King

One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in

Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected

hurdles to life in Thailand

Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries

equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can

live in or visit daily

Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than

renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and

you are not expected to pay the first asking price

LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach

Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that

drug traffickers risk the death penalty

TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is

becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped

620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

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Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

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Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

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bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

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content and news

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                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
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                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
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                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 4: Thailand & Bangkok

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Cost of living

bull Language

bull Local customs

bull Tipping

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from

its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and

is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is

accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments

Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are

unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from

women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is

also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on

Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King

One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in

Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected

hurdles to life in Thailand

Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries

equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can

live in or visit daily

Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than

renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and

you are not expected to pay the first asking price

LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach

Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that

drug traffickers risk the death penalty

TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is

becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

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Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

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Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

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Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

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Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

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bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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Page 5: Thailand & Bangkok

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Cost of living

bull Language

bull Local customs

bull Tipping

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Many cultural differences found in Thailand result less in shock than in pleasant surprise Thailand still derives pride from

its reputation as a gracious and courteous host country A polite wai is a common greeting instead of a handshake and

is done by pressing both hands together in front of your chest with a slight bow Although this may feel very formal it is

accepted and friendly Handshakes will be reciprocated without a second thought especially in business environments

Foreigners should try not to touch heads and point at feet but there is a great deal of leeway granted to people who are

unaccustomed to Thai culture The language is respectful with sentences ending in a polite khrup from men and kha from

women References to people are determined by age and one will often be referred to as youngerolder brothersister It is

also important to remain very respectful of the royal family This respect can be seen or shown by wearing yellow shirts on

Mondays stopping for daily breaks to listen to the national anthem and standing at movie theatres in tribute to the King

One of the largest shocks may come from finding how similar cultures are The largest difficulties adjusting to life in

Thailand will result less from culture than from practicalities Horrendous traffic pollution and noise may be unexpected

hurdles to life in Thailand

Cost of livingThailand is very cheap compared with other expat destinations and international cities Expats who are paid salaries

equivalent to those in their home countries will be able to afford new luxuries Often expat families hire a maid who can

live in or visit daily

Furniture crafts and handmade goods are inexpensive so decorating an unfurnished apartment may be cheaper than

renting a furnished one Transportation and food is also cheap Most things bought at markets can be bartered for and

you are not expected to pay the first asking price

LanguageThe official language is Thai although English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Local customsPublic displays of affection are frowned upon Dress is informal although beachwear should be confined to the beach

Drugs are illegal and travellers should know that possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and that

drug traffickers risk the death penalty

TippingMost restaurants and hotels add a 10 service charge Tipping is not expected but in places frequented by tourists it is

becoming more of the norm Taxi drivers do not need to be tipped

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

720

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Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

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Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
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                  53. Button 4028
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                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
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                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
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                  72. Button 4016
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                                  1. Button 410
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                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
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                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
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                                  16. Button 2026
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                                  22. Button 2029
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                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
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                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
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                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
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                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
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                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
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                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
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                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
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Page 6: Thailand & Bangkok

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai Many students attend private schools that follow foreign curriculum These

can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than international schools Private schools are also popular

with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

820

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
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                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
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                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                                  1. Button 410
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                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
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                                  16. Button 2026
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                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
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                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
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                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
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                                  59. Button 72
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Page 7: Thailand & Bangkok

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Health guide for expats

dr sneh Khemka medical director for Bupa international looks at the health challenges facing people moving to thailand

Thailand is such a vibrant and colourful country mdash I love the contrast of the cosmopolitan city with the deep traditions

and culture You canrsquot walk far in Bangkok for example without coming across a peaceful temple situated moments

away from the hustle and bustle of the city As medical director for Bupa International Irsquove met many people who have

relocated to Thailand Many of the health challenges they face are similar to other expats around the world while others

are unique to this region

An environment of change In the last few decades Thailand has seen dramatic economic growth The country has transformed from an economy

borne from the land to a thriving industrialised business centre However a casualty in this boom has been the

environment Thailandrsquos air pollution in its major cities has risen correspondingly as in many countries that have gone

through an economic transition This has had a major impact on health resulting in more respiratory-related illnesses

such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Air pollutants from vehicles and factories have been a major contributor to the problem This situation prompted the

government to set up the pollution control department at Thailandrsquos Ministry of Environment The government has

largely been successful in its attempts with stricter controls on emissions And although Thailand mdash and Bangkok in

particular mdash has made great strides in the attempt to tackle air pollution with the government initiatives to improve air

quality there is still work to be done Fine particles in Bangkokrsquos air have at times exceeded World Health Organisation

(WHO) standards by 25 times and other air pollutants are also still causing major health impacts

If yoursquore an expat living in the city you may be particularly affected My advice is to check your local weather forecast and

air quality index on a daily basis and plan your activities accordingly On hot days when the air quality is poor try to stay

indoors as much as you can preferably in an air-conditioned room or building Air-filtering equipment may also help to

improve the air quality in your home If you have to go outside choose times of the day when the air pollution is lighter

such as first thing in the morning But most importantly listen to your body

The symptoms of respiratory disease can vary considerably but the principal issues are shortness of breath a productive

cough and wheezing The symptoms will vary from day to day but air quality can significantly affect the severity making

the difference between having a minor niggle to even requiring treatment in hospital

HIVAids is the biggest health challenge More people die from HIVAids than from any other illness in Thailand it accounted for 14 of deaths in 2006 Since

the first case of Aids was reported in Thailand a quarter of a century ago the epidemic in South-East Asia has grown

massively South-East Asia has the third highest HIV burden in the world after Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas

accounting for 10 of all people living with HIV Sexual transmission accounts for 83 of all reported HIVAids cases in

Thailand Practising safe sex is therefore vital for everyone locals and expats alike The risk of HIV infection is dramatically

reduced by using a condom

Thailand has successfully responded to the problem and largely controlled HIV through a strong and early national

response There are government strategies such as the ldquo100 condom use programmerdquo as well as good monitoring and

evaluation in place with research to guide public policy Added to the governmentrsquos response are the numerous national

non-government organisations community-based organisations and academic institutions who are working to combat

the further spread of this disease

820

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

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Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
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                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
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                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
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                                  1. Button 410
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                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
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                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
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                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
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                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
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                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
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                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
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Page 8: Thailand & Bangkok

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Itrsquos also important to consider HIVAids if yoursquore a healthcare worker in Thailand due to the potential transmission

through needlestick injuries In comparison to developed countries such as the US and UK in Thailand you face greater

risks because of the use of certain medical equipment such as non-retracting finger-stick lancets and glass capillary

tubes to test for common tropical diseases Although safety-engineered devices have been incorporated to help reduce

needlestick injuries in the developing world the role of such devices in developing countries remains controversial

My advice is to take extreme care and always use single-use or sterilised needles

Bird flu risk simmers Although swine flu now has most recently caught the attention of the world back in 2003 bird flu was the major threat

There were outbreaks in South-East Asia including Thailand A total of 25 people were infected and 17 people died from

the illness The last case of a human becoming infected with the bird flu virus in Thailand was in September 2006 but

with a new case in South-East Asia in Jakarta (Indonesia) this year and in Cambodia in only December last year it would

be wise to remain cautious

Most people have been infected with the bird flu virus from being in direct or close contact with infected poultry

Colourful vibrant food markets abound in Thailand They are such interesting places to visit but if you take a trip to a food

market in Thailand where they may be live poultry be cautious Donrsquot touch the poultry any feathers or liquid waste from

it and try to avoid any areas that are heavy with poultry in poorly ventilated areas Wash your hands after you leave the

market and if you have children take particular care to supervise them You can safely eat poultry and eggs if they are

cooked correctly as the virus is killed in the cooking process Itrsquos important to note that nobody has ever got bird flu from

eating cooked food

But my overall advice is that living and working in Thailand has great advantages which should be enjoyed The

favourable climate the naturally healthy Thai diet and the relatively relaxed pace of life are all great reasons for your

health to actually improve

920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

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Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

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See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
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                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
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                  8. Button 454
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                  10. Button 212
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                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
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                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
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                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
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                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
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                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
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                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 9: Thailand & Bangkok

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contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Below you will find

bull A summary of useful information

bull Embassy contact details

bull Useful links

Useful information Time In Thailand the local time is GMT + 7 hours

Currency The baht (THB ฿) ndash in Thai บาท ndash is the official currency of Thailand It is divided into 100 satang

(in Thai สตางค) You can check the latest exchange rates here

Electricity The country has an electric current of 220 volts AC 50Hz Typically both flat and round two-pin plugs are

used

Safety Expats can expect to be readily helped by locals in emergencies Violent crime is not a concern although expats

are targets for petty crime such as scams and pickpocketing Hired transportation such as motorbike taxis and tuk-tuks

can be dangerous as is highway traffic

The political situation in Thailand is very uncertain There have been major political demonstrations in Bangkok and

outbreaks of violence It is a good idea to check up on the political situation prior to leaving for Bangkok

There is a threat to westerners from terrorism throughout south-east Asia and expats moving to Thailand should be

particularly vigilant in public places including tourist resorts Avoid the border areas and donrsquot camp in undesignated

areas in national parks

Incidents of sexual assault occur and females should be cautious

The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and you should avoid travel

to Pattani Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla mdash the government has announced a state of emergency in the area

Further attacks could take place in areas frequented by foreigners Thai authorities have put security measures in place

throughout the country including Bangkok

There have been several sinkings of passenger boats thought to be caused by overloading The monsoon season

in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north north-east and

central regions causing mudslides and flash floods visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check

conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving

Will I qualify for a retirement visa You must be at least 50 years old be able to provide a background criminal check

and a certificate of health Financial requirements are a bank account with THB 80000 or US$22400 and a monthly

income of THB 65000 (US$1820) A non-immigrant visa is required beforehand

Can I buy property in Thailand Property is illegal for foreigners to purchase but there are a number of loopholes It is

possible to own structures on land without owning the land itself and buying individual condos is permitted There are

ways to rent land on long leases without technically owning it and an estate agent should be hired to help

Communications The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66 The outgoing code is 001 followed by the

1020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

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Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

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Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

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LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

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For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

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Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

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Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

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+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
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                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
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                  19. Button 512
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                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
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                  28. Button 520
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                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
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                  34. Button 523
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                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
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                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
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                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 10: Thailand & Bangkok

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relevant country code (eg 00144 for the United Kingdom) Cityarea codes are in use eg Bangkok is (0)2 and Chiang

Mai is (0)53 To dial a mobile in Thailand an 8 must precede the city code International direct dial facilities are available

throughout most of the country Mobile phone networks cover most towns cities and holiday resorts operators use

GSM 900 1800 and 1900 networks Internet cafes are available in the main city and resorts

Climate Weather in Thailand tends to be hot and humid all year round with slight regional variation and seasonal

change The climate in Thailand is tropical and expats will soon find themselves well acquainted with the monsoon a

seasonal wind that can bring heavy precipitation

For the most part weather in Thailand can be broken up into three major seasons the dry cool season (November to

February) the hot season (March to June) and the rainy season (June to October) The southern part of the country is less

predictable and usually only experiences two seasons - the wet season and the dry season

The entire country receives a fair bit of precipitation during the rainy season with the southern region receiving almost

twice as much rainfall as the central and northern areas

Temperatures in Thailand move up and down depending on location the north is the coolest area and the mercury rises

as you move farther south That said even during the cool season the daily high can reach 20degC (68degF) and during the

hot season averages settle around 34degC (93degF)

Embassy contact details Thailand Embassies

bull Royal Thai Embassy Washington DC United States +1 202 944 3600

bull Royal Thai Embassy London United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944 ext 5500

bull Royal Thai Embassy Ottawa Canada +1 613 722 4444

bull Royal Thai Embassy Canberra Australia +61 (0)2 6206 0100

bull Royal Thai Embassy Pretoria South Africa +27 (0)12 342 5470

bull Royal Thai Embassy Wellington New Zealand +64 (0)4 476 8616

Foreign Embassies in Thailand

bull United States Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 205 4000

bull British Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 305 8333

bull Canadian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 636 0540

bull Australian Embassy Bangkok +66 (0)2 344 6300

bull South African Embassy Bangkok + 66 (0)2 659 2900

bull Honorary Consul of Ireland Bangkok +66 (0)2 677 7500

bull New Zealand Embassy Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia Laos and Myanmar) +66 (0)2 254 2530

Useful links bull Wordtravelscom has an extensive travel guide to Thailand httpwordtravelscomTravelguideCountriesThailand

bull Thailand tax help wwwdrklawcom

bull Thailand tax law firm wwwnaritlawcom

bull Thailand tax consultancy agency httpwwwsutletgroupcomtax_advisoryhtm

bull Information and visawork permit services httpwwwsiam-legalcom

bull Learn Thai for FREE The Mother of all Resources

bull Relocationshipping company httpwwwtranspo-intlcom

bull Shipping insurance wwwshipitcoukInternational_Removals_Thailandhtm

bull Pet relocation services wwwthaitailscom

1 1 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
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    3. Page 3
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    6. Page 6
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    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
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              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
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                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 11: Thailand & Bangkok

1 1 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Expat gu idE Bangkok

this guide offers information and advice if you are moving to Bangkokclick on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights

You can also read our expat guide to thailand

Bupa International is the specialist international division of Bupa and we have operations in UK Denmark USA

Spain France Hong Kong Egypt UAE and AustraliaWe care for the lives in our hands and are dedicated to providing all the insurance services help and advice you need to keep yourself and your family in the best of health Our dedicated team respects everyonersquos individuality culture privacy and dignity and aims to provide a personal service you can rely on throughout your Bupa International membership

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
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      1. QUOTE 3
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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
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                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
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                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                      1. QUOTE 5
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 12: Thailand & Bangkok

1 2 20

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Moving to BangkokMoving to Bangkok expats can experience a wholly different culture within a familiar framework of an international

city Since King Chulalongkorn began implementing western habits in order to appease British sensibilities Bangkok has

continued to blend Siamrsquos customs with western amenities

Modern business healthcare and accommodation are all expected in Bangkok but unlike other destinations expats can

find unusual luxury from the low cost of living Despite a city with such discrepancies between quality of life expats will be

able to enjoy the very best of a city that seems built for fun

Yet many aspects of the city can be draining Bangkok is polluted with a blanket of smog forming above the city in high

traffic periods and canal water can be sickly Political upheaval makes markets dip and rise and expats should keep a

weary eye on protests

Shipping and removalsIt is important to have a credible shipping company and to buy insurance on the goods It is a good idea to buy insurance

from a company other than the one used for transport to ensure reliable coverage

Goods are very cheap in Thailand and it is often cheaper to buy new furniture and amenities in Thailand than to ship them

1 320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
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            4. Page 4
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                  1. Button 263
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                  5. Button 2010
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                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
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                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
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                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
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                            3. Page 13
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
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                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
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                                  22. Button 2029
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                                  27. Button 2032
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                                  31. Button 4041
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                                  37. Button 4042
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                                  39. Button 2041
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                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 13: Thailand & Bangkok

1 320

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Working in BangkokBelow you will find information about

bull Visas and work permits

bull Banking money and taxes

bull Business culture

bull Public holidays

Bangkok has always relied on strong foreign investment into their relatively stable economy A more tumultuous political

environment sporadically scares off and then beckons back foreign business and its employees Yet many international

companies make their home in Bangkok and many more have branches to take advantage of Thailandrsquos economic centre

Finance is the largest industry in Bangkok but expats come for very diverse work fields including teaching English export

import companies management and manufacturing

In general well paid expat positions are given to employees hired from overseas or relocated to Bangkok within their

company Expats hired from within Bangkok have a much lower salary Often relocation packages include help with

accommodation and sometimes luxuries such as car and driver Thai businesses will be familiar with western style

etiquette and handshakes increasingly replace the traditional greeting of a wai (palms pressed together)

Visa and work permits (Thailand)The first step to obtaining a work permit is receiving a non-immigrant visa Applications for work permits must then be

accompanied by personal identifications degrees employer documentation and various fees depending on length of stay

Work permits can be extended

Banking money and taxes (Thailand)Banks in Thailand are modern reliable and easily accessible with numerous ATMs and English-speaking personnel in main

branches Full accounts can be opened by foreigners with work permits although saving accounts may be opened by

those without There are a number of international banks that operate in Thailand Sometimes documentation that needs

to be signed will be written in Thai so it is a good idea to ask for an English translation

Expat tax laws differ slightly for residents and non-residents in Thailand Non-residents are expats who live in Thailand less

than 180 days of the year Non-residents can be taxed on their income if it is derived from Thailand but are not taxed

on their worldwide income whereas residents are taxed on income derived in Thailand as well as on income brought into

Thailand from foreign sources The tax rate for residents is calculated on a progressive scale starting from 10 (for annual

income exceeding THB 150000) to 37 (for anything exceeding THB 4000001)

Thailand has signed tax treaties with most western countries preventing double taxation for expats Tax forms are often

in Thai so it may be necessary to hire a Thai tax planner to complete even simple tax forms It is beneficial to start

employment mid-year to skirt Thailandrsquos yearly accumulative tax periods

Business culture (Thailand)It is important for foreigners to observe and respect local Thai customs The wai (putting cupped hands in front of you and

bowing slightly) is a more acceptable form of greeting than shaking hands Thais use first names rather than surnames

preceded by Kuhn for both men and women Wait to be introduced to others as this is an indication of rank Often the

hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly

Formal conservative attire is favoured Business hours are usually 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
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    8. Page 8
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            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
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                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
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                        3. Page 13
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                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
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                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
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                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
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                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
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                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 14: Thailand & Bangkok

1420

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Public holidays

2011 2012

New Yearrsquos Day 1 Jan 1 Jan

Makha Bucha Day 18 Feb 7 Mar

Chakri Day 6 Apr 6 Apr

Songkran Festival 13 Apr - 15 Apr 13 Apr - 15 Apr

National Labour Day 1 May 1 May

Coronation Day 5 May 5 May

Visakha Bucha Day 18 May 4 Jun

Asahna Bucha (Buddhist Lent) 15-16 Jul 2-3 Aug

HM Queenrsquos Birthday 12 Aug 12 Aug

Chulalongkorn Day 23 Oct 23 Oct

HM Kingrsquos Birthday 5 Dec 5 Dec

Constitution Day 10 Dec 10 Dec

New Yearrsquos Eve 31 Dec 31 Dec

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
    9. Page 9
    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 15: Thailand & Bangkok

1 520

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

LivingBelow you will find information about

bull Accommodation

bull Areas and suburbs

bull Children in Bangkok

bull Language

bull Safety

bull Health concerns

bull Transport

bull Weather

For information about Bupa International healthcare click here

Accommodation Bangkok has experienced something of a face lift Where there were once wooden humble homes indicative of local

charm there are now high-rise apartment buildings promoting themselves as must-haves for those who want a ldquomodern

liferdquo For many expats relocating to Bangkok these luxury residences come at a much more affordable price than they

may have in their home country

Many expats prefer fully serviced apartments akin to hotels These usually come furnished and offer daily maid services

and a staffed lobby area Often they come with a small fitness centre and pool Non-serviced apartments are usually less

expensive but often require a longer term commitment If you choose this option it is important to find quality well-run

buildings as renters have less recourse against property owners than in the West

On the edges of the city expat families can find western-style houses in gated communities similar to suburban housing

communities in the US These get progressively more expensive closer to downtown areas

Areas and suburbs in Bangkok While there are no areas in Bangkok solely reserved for expats foreigners tend to congregate near the amenities that

make life more convenient

Downtown Bangkok Silom Sathorn Sukhumvit Many expats favour living right within the heart of Bangkok The city

centre is in close proximity to the sleek and stylish Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) fancy shopping malls hospitals museums

good schools bars and restaurants The middle of town is also the primary place of business so being near work and

having access to so many amenities is an attractive option

The quality of air in the city centre is poor Playgrounds and parks are a rarity and the red light areas have been

re-packaged for the sex tourists Such a brash showcase of the ldquopleasures of the nightrdquo can be a touch overwhelming in

some areas and while the adventurous singleton can easily brush the risqueacute aside the expat family may not prefer to

have to constantly dodge curious questions

Generally though most expats will rent an apartment in the downtown areas As a result people from all walks of life

(expat retirees engineers journalists teachers UN workers etc) are found living in these areas either as families or by

themselves However these city privileges will add a zero or two to your monthly rent

Nevertheless if you have the time and energy it is recommended to go by foot and see for yourself what kind of value

there is out there because many places which are great value for money donrsquot advertise

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
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    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 16: Thailand & Bangkok

1620

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

For a very comprehensive guide (including maps) on what is hot and what is not check out the following links

bull Bangkok-and-apartment-guidecom

bull Thaiapartmentcom

Crawl into suburbia Samut Prakan The big urban sprawl of Bangkok unfurls from the central downtown areas into

many exclusive private enclosed housing estates Since the BTS has extended its arms and legs towards the east and

south of the city this has presented an opportunity for expats to escape the suck of the city centre set up base in the

fresh air of suburbs and still commute to work using public transportation

The area is generally quiet and safe Excellent international schools are found in this multicultural environment The down-

side is that you have to contend with a daily commute in to the city

Children in BangkokDespite the drawback of pollution the city can be great for children There are a large number of water parks zoos and

activities to capture a childrsquos imagination Private schools are of good quality Often city neighbourhoods act as insular

communities and it is common for children to be looked after and in part raised by the neighbours

LanguageThere are so many expats in Bangkok it is very easy to circulate primarily in English-speaking crowds Many Thais donrsquot speak

English and everything from giving directions to hailing a taxi is done in the native language Learning some rudimentary

words and sentences will go a long way to enhancing your experience of the city

SafetyBangkok is surprisingly safe for its size and income disparities although foreigners should be careful of pickpockets and

scammers Hospitals are very safe and despite political upheaval expats shouldnrsquot be concerned about political violence if

they stay clear of protests

Health concernsThe largest concern is the air pollution which can be detrimental to asthmatics and generally draining for everyone else

Bupa Internationalrsquos medical director Dr Sneh Khemka has written an extensive health guide for expats who are moving

to Thailand Read the health guide for expats

TransportPublic transport such as the sky train ferry and subway is much faster than driving your car Frustrating traffic jams are

regular parts of any driven commute Public transport does not reach all areas of the city but there are plenty of taxies

and motorbike taxies They may agree to a lower price than the one on the meter but often refuse to drive long distances

WeatherWith a hot tropical climate daytime temperatures can reach the mid-30s throughout the year March April and May

are the hottest and most humid months and the rainy season runs from May to October During the wet season rain is

common throughout the day and itrsquos wise to invest in a good umbrella

Bang KoK

Rainfall Max Temp Min Temp

Tem

pera

ture

(˚C)

Rain

fall

(mm

)

340

272

204

136

69

0Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

60

48

36

24

12

0

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
    9. Page 9
    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 17: Thailand & Bangkok

1 720

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

See and doBelow you will find information about

bull Lifestyle

bull See and do

bull Attractions for kids

bull Restaurants

bull Annual events

Lifestyle Bangkok is a friendly and cosmopolitan city brimming with wonderful attractions and activities for people of all

persuasions Despite the pollution humidity and traffic congestion Bangkok is a great place for expats to relocate to

There is a wide variety of shopping malls and markets Tthe Khao San road is brimming with stalls selling all the counterfeit

clobber you could dream of the MBK Shopping Centre supplies everything from clothing and jewellery to toys and

electronics while Chatuchak Market is the worldrsquos largest weekend market with 9000 stalls

Bangkok nightlife might have a seedy reputation because of the strip clubs and go-go bars However there are plenty of

more conventional bars and cocktail lounges The RCA area boasts trendy clubs while the backpackerrsquos paradise Khao San

road has popular local bars

See and doRoyal Grand Palace At the Royal Gran Palace you can see wonderful architecture learn about the countryrsquos royal family

and view the world famous Emerald Buddha Tel (0)2 623 5500 wwwpalacesthainet

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) Thailandrsquos oldest and most famous temple is home to the iconic

Reclining Buddha and a must-see for all new Bangkok residents The gold-plated Reclining Buddha is 157ft (48m) long

and 49ft (15m) high featuring Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet Tel (0)2 222 5910 or (0)2 226 2942

The Golden Buddha (Wat Traimit) This solid gold Buddha was discovered in 1957 when the surrounded plaster was

shattered after an old stucco image was dropped by a crane Expats living in Bangkok should be sure to visit the 13th

century 10ft (3m) tall golden attraction

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Escape the western-style shopping malls and centres of Bangkok for something more

traditional mdash a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market for local farmers Explore the canals on your own boat and

stop to sample before you buy

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing One of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok Wat Suthat is where you can view

the famous 14th century Buddha that was brought from Sukhothai An enormous arch made of teak outside the temple

is all that remains of the swing that was used to celebrate a bountiful rice harvest Tel (0)2 222 0280

Chatuchak market Said to be the largest flea market in the world Chatuchak encompasses up to 15000 stalls selling

weird and wonderful wares

Royal Barges National Museum The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative barges The earliest barge

dates back to 1357 but many of the barges were used as war vessels and were subsequently used on royal or state

occasions Tel (0)2 424 0004 wwwthailandmuseumcom

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
    9. Page 9
    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 18: Thailand & Bangkok

1 820

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Jim Thomsonrsquos House The famous silk entrepreneur Jim Thomson disappeared into the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia in

1967 His old house features an array of personal belongings and art Tel (0)2 216 7368 wwwjimthompsonhousecom

Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) One of Bangkokrsquos most beautiful temples Wat Benchamabophit is made

from white Carrara marble and its courtyard is paved with polished white marble Tel (0)2 281 2501

Vimanmek Mansion Museum This exotic teakwood mansion was built by King Rama V in 1901 and it was restored in

1982 to pay homage to the King who built it Tel (0)2 281 8166

Attractions for kidsExpats who relocate to Bangkok with their kids may be concerned about this culture shock in this frantic city but there are

plenty of fun attractions and activities that will grab their interest When itrsquos too hot to think take the kids to cool off at

one of the cityrsquos water parks such as Siam Park Leoland Water Park or Fantasia Lagoon Take them to see the marine life

at the Siam Ocean World float around with the butterflies at the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium or be thrilled

at the Snake Farm (Thai Red Cross Farm)

RestaurantsBangkok is one of those cities where just about everything under the sun can be found in its roadside stalls or in its

plethora of restaurants and cafeacutes However be prepared for plastic chairs peeling walls and deep fried locusts Chinatown

is also bustling with unique and exciting eateries Sukhumvit is the place to go for trendy restaurants while Banglamphu

serves all the western food a home-sick expat could desire

Annual eventsSongkran Festival (April) During the festival it is possible to see people being doused in water in a symbol of purification

and cleansing for the coming year The festival lasts three days and itrsquos a great way for expats to take part in some of the

local cultural festivities

Chinese New Year (February) With one of the largest Chinatowns in the world Bangkok celebrates Chinese New Year in

its own unique style with revelry moon cakes and firecrackers

Bangkok Marathon (November) Due to the extreme temperatures Bangkok experiences in November the marathon is

said to be one of the worldrsquos toughest mdash all the more reason for new residents of the city to get down to the streets to

cheer on the runners taking part in this gruelling race

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
    9. Page 9
    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 19: Thailand & Bangkok

1920

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Education and schoolsMost expats in Bangkok will send their children to private schools Public schools are overcrowded internationally

uncompetitive and teach primarily in Thai However there are many options for private schools Many students attend

private schools that follow foreign curriculum These can be good options for expat children and are often cheaper than

international schools Private schools are also popular with wealthier Thai students who often make up the majority of the

student body

International schools follow curriculum from many different countries the most popular being British and American

Some schools only accept students from their nationality The International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) has

75 member schools and although there are other quality schools all ISAT members meet international standards

bull International School of Bangkok wwwisbacth

bull The American School of Bangkok wwwasbthedu

bull International Community School in Bangkok wwwicsbangkokcom

bull The British International School in Thailand wwwpatanaacth

This content is provided by wwwexpatarrivalscom copyright copy 2011 Globe Media Ltd All rights reserved By its very nature much of the information in this expat guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which theyrsquore relying with the relevant authoritiesNeither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions or any loss damage illness andor injury that may occur as a result of this informationBupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
    1. Page 1 Off
    2. Page 2
    3. Page 3
    4. Page 4
    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
    7. Page 7
    8. Page 8
    9. Page 9
    10. Page 10
      1. QUOTE 3
        1. Page 1 Off
        2. Page 2
        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
        10. Page 10
          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
            1. Page 1 Off
            2. Page 2
            3. Page 3
            4. Page 4
            5. Page 5
            6. Page 6
            7. Page 7
            8. Page 8
            9. Page 9
            10. Page 10
              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
                1. Page 1 Off
                2. Page 2
                3. Page 3
                4. Page 4
                5. Page 5
                6. Page 6
                7. Page 7
                8. Page 8
                9. Page 9
                10. Page 10
                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
                  3. Button 208
                  4. Button 209
                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
                  26. Button 518
                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
                  35. Button 524
                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
                    1. Page 11 Off
                    2. Page 12
                    3. Page 13
                    4. Page 14
                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
                                1. Page 11 Off
                                2. Page 12
                                3. Page 13
                                4. Page 14
                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
                                9. Page 19
                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024
Page 20: Thailand & Bangkok

2020

contact uscall us on

+44 (0) 1273 7 18 306

Join us at Bupa InternationalBupa International is a leader in international health insurance for expatriates Our customers have access to more than

7500 facilities worldwide and we serve 800000 customers spread across 190 countries We strive to make sure you

receive the appropriate treatment and service We can offer direct settlement with Bupa recognised facilities in order to

take the hassle of reimbursement away from you

In-house Medical CentreBupa Internationalrsquos in-house Medical Centre is at the heart of our organisation Our doctors and nurses help the

medically trained staff handle more than 8000 mails and telephone calls from our customers every month

The Medical Centre is available for you 24 hours a day all year round

Our services include

bull Easy access to multilingual medical professionals

bull Second opinion service delivered by Advanced Medical

bull Appointment booking

bull Direct settlement with providers

bull Evacuation services

MembersWorldMembersWorld is an exclusive and secure website that enables our members to effectively manage their plans and get in

touch with us wherever they are in the world

On MembersWorld you can

bull View your plan

bull Update personal details

bull Track the progress of your claims

bull Make payments online

bull Search our international hospital directory

bull Download claim forms and other useful documents

bull Talk to a customer consultant via our free webchat service

MembersWorld may not track claims in the USA as we use our partner here

You can also find us on Twitter and Facebook

Bupa RewardsIn Bupa International we care for our customers We have a reward programme for our members with gifts offers health

content and news

Contact us to discuss how we can help you

  1. BENEFITS 3
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    5. Page 5
    6. Page 6
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      1. QUOTE 3
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        3. Page 3
        4. Page 4
        5. Page 5
        6. Page 6
        7. Page 7
        8. Page 8
        9. Page 9
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          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 3
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              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 3
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                  1. Button 263
                  2. Button 207
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                  5. Button 2010
                  6. Button 2018
                  7. Button 206
                  8. Button 454
                  9. Button 455
                  10. Button 212
                  11. Button 213
                  12. Button 214
                  13. Button 215
                  14. Button 458
                  15. Button 389
                  16. Button 407
                  17. Button 222
                  18. Button 223
                  19. Button 512
                  20. Button 513
                  21. Button 514
                  22. Button 515
                  23. Button 408
                  24. Button 516
                  25. Button 517
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                  27. Button 519
                  28. Button 520
                  29. Button 521
                  30. Button 409
                  31. Button 235
                  32. Button 473
                  33. Button 522
                  34. Button 523
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                  36. Button 525
                  37. Button 4010
                  38. Button 247
                  39. Button 478
                  40. Button 526
                  41. Button 527
                  42. Button 528
                  43. Button 529
                  44. Button 4011
                  45. Button 483
                  46. Button 4022
                  47. Button 530
                  48. Button 531
                  49. Button 532
                  50. Button 533
                  51. Button 4012
                  52. Button 534
                  53. Button 4028
                  54. Button 535
                  55. Button 536
                  56. Button 537
                  57. Button 538
                  58. Button 4013
                  59. Button 4025
                  60. Button 494
                  61. Button 539
                  62. Button 540
                  63. Button 541
                  64. Button 542
                  65. Button 4015
                  66. Button 4026
                  67. Button 543
                  68. Button 544
                  69. Button 545
                  70. Button 546
                  71. Button 547
                  72. Button 4016
                  73. BENEFITS 4
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                    5. Page 15
                    6. Page 16
                    7. Page 17
                    8. Page 18
                    9. Page 19
                      1. QUOTE 5
                        1. Page 11 Off
                        2. Page 12
                        3. Page 13
                        4. Page 14
                        5. Page 15
                        6. Page 16
                        7. Page 17
                        8. Page 18
                        9. Page 19
                          1. REQUEST A CALL BACK 5
                            1. Page 11 Off
                            2. Page 12
                            3. Page 13
                            4. Page 14
                            5. Page 15
                            6. Page 16
                            7. Page 17
                            8. Page 18
                            9. Page 19
                              1. EMAIL ENQUIRY 5
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                                5. Page 15
                                6. Page 16
                                7. Page 17
                                8. Page 18
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                                  1. Button 410
                                  2. Button 2014
                                  3. Button 2015
                                  4. Button 2019
                                  5. Button 2020
                                  6. Button 2021
                                  7. Button 4034
                                  8. Button 501
                                  9. Button 2017
                                  10. Button 2023
                                  11. Button 2024
                                  12. Button 2025
                                  13. Button 4038
                                  14. Button 502
                                  15. Button 503
                                  16. Button 2026
                                  17. Button 2027
                                  18. Button 2028
                                  19. Button 4039
                                  20. Button 504
                                  21. Button 505
                                  22. Button 2029
                                  23. Button 2030
                                  24. Button 2031
                                  25. Button 4040
                                  26. Button 506
                                  27. Button 2032
                                  28. Button 508
                                  29. Button 2033
                                  30. Button 2034
                                  31. Button 4041
                                  32. Button 507
                                  33. Button 2035
                                  34. Button 509
                                  35. Button 2036
                                  36. Button 2037
                                  37. Button 4042
                                  38. Button 510
                                  39. Button 2041
                                  40. Button 2038
                                  41. Button 5011
                                  42. Button 2040
                                  43. Button 4043
                                  44. Button 548
                                  45. Button 2042
                                  46. Button 2039
                                  47. Button 5012
                                  48. Button 2043
                                  49. Button 4044
                                  50. Button 5010
                                  51. Button 2050
                                  52. Button 2044
                                  53. Button 2045
                                  54. Button 5013
                                  55. Button 4045
                                  56. QUOTE 4
                                  57. REQUEST A CALL BACK 4
                                  58. EMAIL ENQUIRY 4
                                  59. Button 72
                                  60. Button 4014
                                  61. Button 4024

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