A Case for Thailand: Why Remote Workers Should Consider Setting Up Base Here.

Remote Thailand Staff Team. 1/6/2024.

Thailand has become an increasingly popular destination for remote workers and digital nomads. Known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, affordable cost of living, and friendly locals, Thailand offers numerous advantages for those who work remotely. This document explores ten key reasons why remote workers should consider moving to the country.

1. Affordable Cost of Living

One of the main attractions for remote workers moving to the country is the affordable cost of living.

• Rent: In Bangkok, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $600, while outside the center it drops to about $350. In Chiang Mai, rent is even cheaper, averaging $300 in the city center and $150 outside it.
• Utilities: Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a typical apartment cost around $100.
• Groceries: Monthly grocery expenses are approximately $200 for a single person.
• Eating Out: An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-$10.

2. High-Quality Healthcare

The country is renowned for its high-quality yet affordable healthcare system.

International Recognition

Many Thai hospitals are internationally accredited, such as Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, which is JCI-accredited and known for its excellent medical services.

Healthcare Costs

• Doctor's Visit: A typical visit to a general practitioner costs between $20-$50.
• Dental Care: Dental cleaning costs around $30-$50.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for expats ranges from $600 to $1,500 annually, depending on the coverage and provider.

3. Internet Connectivity

Thailand ranks high in digital infrastructure and connectivity, ensuring remote workers have the necessary tools to work efficiently.

• Average Speed: The country boasts an average internet speed of 200 Mbps for fixed broadband, with gigabit connection becoming the norm.
• Cost: We are paying $25 a month for a gigabit internet (AIS as provider).

4. Central Location in Asia

Thailand's central location in Southeast Asia makes it an excellent base for traveling.

• Airports: Major international airports in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang) and Phuket.
• Flight Costs: Budget airlines like AirAsia and Nok Air offer affordable flights to neighboring countries, often under $100 round-trip.

Proximity to Other Destinations

Easy access to popular destinations like Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

5. Safety

• Numbers: Bangkok, whilst not the cleanest and quietest city in the world, its Safety Index ranks within the same percentile as Hanover, Germany and Florence, Italy. Chiang Mai ranks within the same percentile as Seoul, South Korea and Reykjavík, Iceland.
• Political Stability: The country has seen periods of political unrest, but major tourist and expat areas remain stable and secure.

What about the cons?

Living in Thailand presents various challenges that prospective residents should consider:

• Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, rural regions may pose communication challenges without basic Thai proficiency.

• Bureaucracy: Managing government services, visa renewals, and official matters can be slow and complex, requiring patience.

• Pollution: Major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai experience poor air quality during a certain time of the year, worsened by traffic and seasonal crop burning.

• Heat and Humidity: The country's tropical climate brings year-round heat and humidity, which may be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed.

• Traffic and Transportation: Although urban public transport is improving, traffic congestion remains a significant issue, with frequent motorbike accidents.

• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to Thai cultural norms and etiquette requires time and understanding of local customs.

For insights from the real people, we recommend visiting the Thailand subreddit to explore firsthand experiences from locals and expatriates.

Despite these challenges, Thailand definitely has something to offer. The country's friendly locals, easy access to beach and mountains, vibrant cuisine, and breathtaking natural scenery provide a quality of life that surpasses many alternatives. The relatively lower cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle without excessive financial strain.

References

1. Numbeo. (2023). Cost of Living in Thailand. Retrieved from Numbeo
2. Speedtest Global Index. (2023). Thailand's Internet Speeds. Retrieved from Speedtest
3. Expat Insider. (2023). Expat Life in Thailand. Retrieved from Internations

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