Working Abroad: Is Bangkok the Right Choice for British Expats?
Have you ever thought about leaving it all behind, moving to a different country, and starting an entirely new life? Everyone has had this thought at some point. Yet few actually go through with the exciting idea.
If you want to buck the trend and begin a new career in a different country, there are many exciting choices available. One of the most enticing is Bangkok. As a vibrant, bustling environment with weather that puts the UK to shame, Thailand’s capital has a lot going for it.
However, is it the right choice for you? The following quick guide will explore expat jobs and more.
What jobs are available to expats in Bangkok?
For British expats that want to work in Bangkok, the good news is there are more potential career opportunities than you may initially expect. Of course, the obvious and most popular route into an expact role is with a teaching job. These roles are plentiful, they provide a reasonable wage in most cases, and all you need to get started is a degree and TEFL certificate.
Yet as The Thailand Life highlights, this isn’t the only path you have to take when working in the country. Real estate jobs, writers, hotel management positions – there’s something for everyone. Plus, you could even land a lucrative role within a multinational organisation, especially if you are fluent in Thai.
How much does it cost to live in Bangkok?
It is important to know when you are seeking expat jobs Bangkok living costs are relatively low when compared to Britain. With that said, it may be more expensive than you might have envisioned – especially if you want to live in the heart of the city.
In the centre of Bangkok, you are looking to spend at least THB ฿30,000 (£735~) per month on rent for a one-bedroom condo. Add an extra 50% to that fee if you want a second bedroom. If you venture to the outskirts, however, it’s not uncommon to be able to find a studio apartment for less than THB ฿10,000 (£245~) per month.
Eating and drinking in Bangkok can fluctuate in the same way. If you want to dine out at popular restaurants and go to Starbucks each day, your monthly bill will be similar to what it is in Britain. Yet if you decide to stick with local vendors and cooking your own meals, your monthly bill for food and drink could sit at an appealing THB ฿6,000 (£147~) – or even less if you’re truly frugal.
What is healthcare like in Bangkok?
Britain is fortunate enough to have the NHS. Sadly, few countries offer the same type of publicly-funded healthcare system. As a result, medical bills can be a serious issue in other places – such as Thailand.
To protect yourself from a significant injury causing you to go in debt, always secure some form of health insurance before moving to Bangkok. Depending on the career you have lined up, your relocation package could include health insurance.
Do you need to learn Thai to live in Bangkok?
In short, no, you don’t need to speak Thai to enjoy a comfortable life in Bangkok. English is the international language for the country, and this means plenty of locals at least have a basic grasp of English – especially in the capital.
With that said, it is always wise to learn at least some basic Thai phrases. This will not only help in situations when you’re interacting with non-English speakers, but locals will also appreciate your effort to learn their language and integrate with their culture.
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