If you are not aware of the term ‘digital nomad’, it refers to a professional who works online, which brings with it an unprecedented level of freedom and independence. Imagine being able to live anywhere and still do your regular job! Of all the places on this blue planet, many digital entrepreneurs choose to live in Bangkok, some all year round, and others to escape the freezing winters back home.
In this short article, we take a closer look at some of the reasons why digital nomads like to make Bangkok their base.
Great Internet Coverage
Internet connectivity in Thailand rivals any developed country, and it is inexpensive and reliable. There are a few Thai ISPs, namely AIS, DTAC, True and 3BBB, all offer great packages that cover the entire nation.
As an example, an unlimited data SIM card with 4mps speed costs around $30 a month and there are faster packages if you need them. For a digital nomad, reliable Internet is an absolute must, and you would be hard pushed to find a better country for great Internet than Thailand.
Affordable Living
When you compare the cost of living in Bangkok to any developed country, Thailand is much cheaper. Digital nomads can actually save money while living in Thailand, which is a very attractive proposition that most people would not turn down.
Accommodation, transportation, food, clothing and entertainment are all very affordable, so if you earn an average salary at home, you can live like a king in Bangkok. You can stay at the affordable Solitaire Hotel in Sukhumvit and have the best of both worlds and be right in the centre of the city.
Tropical Climate
The majority of digital nomads spend the winter in Thailand to escape the freezing temperatures back home. Arriving in October and staying until February is the most popular period, which happens to be the high season in Thailand; many nomads move on to South America, Bali and Vietnam for a few months, and they might return to their home country in the summer months.
Central Hub
Those who wish to travel Southeast Asia often use Bangkok as their base; they leave most of their luggage in Bangkok, then travel light to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and other countries.
There are cheap flights from Bangkok to many Southeast Asian destinations, and should you wish to do the Southeast Asian circuit, Bangkok is the perfect base. Click here for a comprehensive travel guide to Thailand, which might prove to be very useful.
Fantastic Nightlife
Bangkok has a global reputation for its fantastic nightlife, and that is a major attraction among young digital entrepreneurs. You can dance the night away at a high-end club in Thong Lor or Khao San Road or enjoy a lively evening at one of the many jazz clubs, not to mention Nana Entertainment Plaza on Sukhumvit Road. Whatever your taste in music, you will find vibrant venues that are open all night.
Real Estate Investment
Some regular visitors to Bangkok invest in a condo unit, which is a great long-term investment, and you can live in the unit while in Bangkok and rent it out when abroad. Whether you prefer a high-end condo on the banks of the Chao Phraya River or a modest unit in a Bangkok suburb, prices appreciate over time, and you should see a healthy return.
Thai Culture
The Thais are a very colourful people, and they enjoy many festivals throughout the year, which foreigners love. The biggest festival of all is the Thai New Year, which is called Songkran, which runs from April 13-15, and everyone throws water at each other, which is great fun as it is the height of summer and temperatures reach 43 °C.
There are areas that are set aside for water throwing, and when you get outside of the city centre, you will find kids standing on the side of the road with tubs of water. Another popular festival is Loy Krathong, which occurs at the end of October and involves people floating krathongs (floats) onto rivers and canals to pay respects to the goddess of water.
Warmth & Hospitality of Thai People
Another reason why nomads choose Thailand is the genuine warmth and kindness that the Thai people exude. Wherever you happen to be, you are surrounded by smiling faces and genuine happiness. It is Buddhism that makes the people so nice, and Thailand is 97% Buddhist, and it shows.
If you are planning a visit to Bangkok anytime soon, we feel sure that you will have a fantastic time, and if you are fortunate enough to work online, you can stay as long as you like in this unique city that is Bangkok.
