Things You Need to Know Before Relocating to Thailand

Thailand offers a lot more than just white sandy beaches. The country is nothing short of a tropical paradise for both visitors and expats alike. With over 40,000 Buddhist temples, 1,500 miles of coastline, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, it’s the ultimate destination for your next move!



Live Near the Public Transportation

According to the World Population Review, Bangkok is one of the most populated cities in the world. It is expected that by 2030, the city will be home to as many as 10 million inhabitants. Although there are innumerable public transport options, catching a bus could be time-consuming and frustrating for a newcomer. Living close to the BTS Skytrain station or the MRT Subway could make things easier for you. If you’re new, you don’t want to spend hours to get downtown.

Other options include motorbike taxis, tuk-tuks, express boats, songthaews, taxis, buses, and Khlong boats. Remember to plan your journey and avoid peak hours. 

Learn to Handle the Taxis

As a foreigner, you might find yourself being overcharged—especially by the taxi drivers of Bangkok. They have a knack for jacking up the prices if someone seems new to the country.



Here’s a pro tip: if the driver refuses to use a meter reasonably, don’t get into the taxi. You don’t have to let them rip you off! Don’t worry about the ride either. The city has plenty of options available. You’ll find plenty of taxis to take you to your destination.

Unlike the West, it’s not common for anyone to wave down a taxi in Thailand. You will have to look at the right-hand side of the taxi’s windshield and see if there’s a red light. This means that the taxi is vacant and can welcome a passenger. To get the driver’s attention, face your palm down and move your fingers to and fro. The driver will stop themselves.

Overcoming Cultural Shock

Don’t let the title misguide you. Thai locals are some of the most gracious, cheerful, welcoming, and courteous individuals. There is a reason it’s called the ‘land of smiles.’ Moving to Thailand is more of a pleasant surprise and not a shock. However, to adjust to the new environment, you might want to get the hang of some of the quintessential Thai etiquettes. Here are a few:

a. When entering a traditional shop, temple, or a Thai shop, don’t forget to take off your shoes. As a first-time visitor, you could be forgiven, but as a habit, it’s generally frowned upon.

b. Never put your feet up, even if you’re on a train.

c. The head is considered a sacred part of the human body. Don’t touch a Thai person’s head.

d. Public display of affection is considered disrespectful.

e. Be respect-giving toward seniors, monks, and the royal family.

f. Women must ensure that their shoulders and upper legs are completely covered when out in public.

If you’re planning on moving to the land of temples and beaches, Visa Service Bangkok will make it easy for you. We are one of the most renowned Thai visa agencies in the US that specializes in Thai business visa, Thailand investor visa, Thai Smart visa, and more. Get in touch with our best Thai visa agents today by booking a free consultation.

 

 

 

 

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