Working remotely in Thailand is what desires are made from. This text will listing the very best locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads.
Whereas residing in Thailand in 2016 and once more in 2018 and once more in 2019 (you get the concept – I can’t keep away!), I lived comfortably on $1,000 a month and by no means had a nasty meal.
To date, I’ve labored remotely from all of the locations on this information and travelled round so many numerous locations in Thailand. I by no means get uninterested in this heat, pleasant nation and might’t wait to get again.
10 Greatest Locations to Reside in Thailand for Digital Nomads
Think about working beside a swimming pool or lovely seashore and taking breaks to eat pad Thai whereas absorbing cool, cosmopolitan cities or superb nature — all of that is attainable in Thailand.
There are many vibrant digital nomad cities in Thailand, in addition to some improbable islands for livin’ la vida nomad!
One other improbable factor about being a digital nomad in Thailand is the costs. It’s one of many world’s most inexpensive areas for residing and dealing remotely.
On this article, I’ll cowl the very best locations to stay in Thailand in addition to the professionals and cons of residing within the nation.
1. Bangkok
The capital is among the finest cities in Thailand, whether or not you’re a vacationer or a nomad.
Why is Bangkok a prime metropolis for digital nomads?
It may be higher to ask why Bangkok ISN’T a fantastic digital nomad metropolis in Thailand! It has quick WiFi, loads of co-working areas, a improbable third-wave espresso scene, and limitless expat communities you’ll be able to faucet into.
From podcasts to Fb teams, I discovered it straightforward to seek out sources and inspiration. Plus, the locals are a pleasant bunch, too.
Though vacationers are likely to spend 2 days in Bangkok, you might spend years getting immersed into the tradition, actions, and hidden gems with out ever having a uninteresting weekend.
Bangkok co-working areas
To work remotely in Thailand, you’ve gotten tons of choices in Bangkok. Simply Co. is one in every of your finest choices unfold throughout two flooring of the AIA Sathorn Tower. It has a hipster really feel with uncovered brick partitions and motivational quotes in neon lights.
There’s tremendous speedy WiFi and a spread of packages to select from relying on whether or not you want full-time entry and your personal desk.
A less expensive possibility is Widespread Floor CentralWorld with workplace area from B4,000/month.
WiFi speeds
A mean of 122 Mbps obtain and 101 Mbps add speeds.
Discovering residences in Bangkok
In contrast to some cities the place there’s a transparent expat space, you’ve gotten loads of choices in Bangkok.
As among the finest digital nomad cities in Thailand, there are a couple of areas to earmark for renting an house.
Ekkamai has a hipster vibe and loads of bars and eating places. You might also need to take a look at Phrom Phong, a pleasing, relaxed space of city with a big park and many espresso outlets.
To search out an house in Bangkok, you should utilize an actual property agent or use web sites together with DDproperty, Hipflat and Baht&Offered. Craigslist may also be helpful, or in any other case you can begin with Airbnb till you discover someplace extra everlasting.
Value of residing in Bangkok
Relying on which neighborhood you select to stay in, the tough price of residing for one particular person in Bangkok is 40,000 baht, round $1,000 USD.
The primary approach to maintain your residing prices low is to eat avenue meals as an alternative of restaurant meals. It’s hardly a chore: the Bangkok avenue meals is a few of the finest on Planet Earth!
From pad Thai to som tam (papaya salad) and Kuay Teow Reua (boat noodles), dishes price as little as $1. You can even store for contemporary elements at native markets moderately than pay near Western costs in Thai supermarkets.
Though Uber is inexpensive, it can save you cash through the use of Seize scooters as an alternative. It’s the identical precept, name one and a driver will arrive, hand you a helmet and allow you to hop on the again.
Execs & cons of residing in Bangkok
The apparent professionals are the comparatively low price of residing, the superb co-working areas and the abundance of superb Thai meals all over the place you look.
The primary draw back of residing in Bangkok is the site visitors, particularly throughout Thai holidays. It’s an actual chore. One other draw back is that Bangkok will get HOT and may also be polluted and smoggy.
Issues to do in Bangkok
There’s a lot to do in Bangkok from palaces to temples (don’t miss Wat Arun at sundown), buying at Chatuchak Market, visiting galleries & museums, strolling or working in Lumphini Park, and consuming superb avenue meals.
☞ SEE ALSO: Digital Nomad Information to Bangkok and One Week in Bangkok: A Haven for Distant Staff
2. Chiang Mai
The gorgeous metropolis of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is one other of the very best locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads. It’s completely completely different from Bangkok so it will depend on what kind of metropolis vibe you get pleasure from. I discovered it a refreshing change of tempo after the considerably hectic time I spent in Bangkok.
When you choose a extra relaxed tempo of life, then you must analysis digital nomad cities in Thailand no additional. Chiang Mai is for you.
Why is Chiang Mai a prime metropolis for digital nomads?
There’s unimaginable meals, not an excessive amount of site visitors, lovely nature, a lot of different nomads to fulfill. Principally, Chiang Mai is among the finest cities to stay in Thailand. It has all the pieces you want as a digital nomad base.
Higher but, it’s one of many least expensive locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads. Costs are notably decrease than the islands and Bangkok.
Chiang Mai co-working areas
There aren’t as many co-working areas in Chiang Mai as there are in Bangkok however fortunately, you don’t want that many. Chiang Mai has a couple of choices whether or not you need a social co-working area or someplace quieter to get your head down.
Your finest wager is Punspace, Chiang Mai’s authentic co-working area which has been open for practically a decade.
There are two branches, one in Nimman with a beautiful, giant backyard space when you must take a break. Nonetheless, this department will get a little bit crowded so that you would possibly choose the Tha Pae location inside a spacious warehouse-style constructing.
WiFi speeds
A mean of 93 Mbps obtain and 88 Mbps add speeds.
The way to discover residences in Chiang Mai
To discover a rental, take a look at Excellent Houses or keep watch over the Expat Fb teams. Another choice is long-term Airbnb stays. You get an honest low cost once you decide to remain a month or longer.
One of the best neighborhood for digital nomads is Nimman. This expat hub is a 5-minute drive (or 20-minute stroll) from the Previous Metropolis. You’ll discover espresso outlets, Western eating places, experimental Thai delicacies. You identify it, Nimman’s obtained it!
Value of residing in Chiang Mai
You’ll be able to simply stay for beneath $1,000 a month in Chiang Mai.
Count on to pay round $600 a month for a 1-bedroom house though this varies relying on the neighborhood and the way lengthy you’re staying (typically, it’s cheaper the longer you signal for).
You’ll be able to pay lower than $500 on your month-to-month meals and transport in Chiang Mai. Road meals is as little as $1 a meal and there are such a lot of meals markets to select from. For a 3-course meal and drinks in a Western-style restaurant, you’re not taking a look at greater than $20.
Hiring a scooter prices as little as $70 a month. You can even depend on Uber and Seize to get round. There are all the time loads of autos round and it’s cheap. Across the Previous Metropolis, it’s straightforward to get all over the place by foot, however put together for it to be scorching at sure instances of the 12 months.
Execs & cons of residing in Chiang Mai
The key draw back of residing in Chiang Mai is the burning season that runs from February to March.
That is when native farmers burn the leftovers of their harvest. You don’t need to be in Chiang Mai for this: the air high quality is hazardous at finest, and the sky is an ominous gray.
Many digital nomads in Chiang Mai select to skip city for this era and return when it’s over.
Issues to do in Chiang Mai
With greater than 300 temples, you might temple-hop each weekend and nonetheless not get by way of all of them. Hike by way of the jungle on the ‘Pilgrim’s Path’, take a day journey to the Sticky Waterfalls, or make a journey to Northern Thailand’s very personal grand canyon.
There are quite a few issues to do in Chiang Mai to maintain you busy.
3. Koh Phangan
Though it was solely on the map as a spot for get together goers eager to expertise the notorious full moon get together, Koh Phangan now has a repute as among the finest locations in Thailand for digital nomads.
There are many co-working areas and cafes the place you’ll be able to pitch up for the afternoon with nobody transferring you on. Yup, digital nomads rule the roost in KP!
Why is Koh Phangan nice for digital nomads?
There’s a fantastic group. If you wish to meet like-minded distant employees, observe yoga, and benefit from the seashore life, that is simply among the finest locations to stay in Thailand. The one draw back is the chance of sand in your laptop computer.
Koh Phangan coworking areas
Beachub on the north of the island is a superb possibility with quick WiFi and loads of desk area.
Casa Tropicana by Distant&Digital is a lodge, restaurant, and co-working area with lovely views. You’ll be able to ebook your lodging and co-working area in a single bundle when you’re eager for a bougie, vacation vibe!
WiFi speeds
First rate. Make sure that to make use of WiFi at devoted co-working areas moderately than the touristic seashore cafes; some are fairly gradual.
The way to discover an house on Koh Phangan
Try Koh Phangan Leases, Fb teams, and month-to-month offers on Airbnbs.
Value of residing in Koh Phangan
Outdoors of the excessive season, $1,000 per particular person monthly is an efficient quantity to price range.
Though there are a couple of markets like Phantip Market in Thong Sala, you received’t discover the identical abundance of avenue meals as you’ll in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. The eating places are additionally costlier.
Price range $70 for a scooter and a little bit extra for gasoline; it’s principally the one approach to get across the island.
Execs & cons of residing in Koh Phangan
It might get costly throughout the excessive season. This runs from December to February. Throughout this time, it’s removed from the most affordable place to stay in Thailand.
Issues to do in Koh Phangan
Rent a scooter and discover the island or why not kayak round it? I’ve achieved all three, and so they’re all value your time. Strive diving at Sail Rock or trek to Bottle Seaside, one of the lovely on the island. There are numerous out of doors issues to do in Koh Phangan.
4. Koh Lanta
One other among the finest locations in Thailand for digital nomads is Koh Lanta, a wonderful island off the coast of Krabi. It’s a small island that may be explored by scooter with lovely seashores and loads of first rate co-working areas and cafes.
Koh Lanta coworking areas
Kohub is the principle co-working area on Koh Lanta, and a part of the explanation the island turned referred to as one of many locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads.
WiFi speeds
Often okay however test your lodging’s WiFi speeds earlier than reserving to keep away from disappointment.
The way to discover an house on Koh Lanta?
There are many web sites you’ll discover by way of Google which have residences for hire. Renting month-to-month Airbnbs can also be a great possibility, or you’ll be able to stay at Kohhub. Lodging and co-working packages together with breakfast begin at $600 a month.
Value of residing on Koh Lanta
Though Koh Lanta is definitely among the finest locations in Thailand for digital nomads, it’s not the most affordable. In the identical manner as Koh Phangan, you’ll discover extra vacationer costs and it’s tougher to get a cut price than in a metropolis.
Nonetheless, you’ll be able to nonetheless get by on $1,000 a month when you get a great fee on lodging and hunt down lower-priced eating places.
Execs and cons of residing in Koh Lanta
It’s fairly a small island so most nomads solely keep 1-2 months, that means it’s tougher to discover a long run group. All the chums I made there appeared to go away inside every week or two.
Issues to do on Koh Lanta
There are alternatives for diving and snorkeling, in addition to yoga studios and gymnasiums. It’s a fantastic place to remain lively. Then, loosen up on the seashore later with a cocktail! You can even volunteer for the day or longer at Lanta Animal Welfare. Be taught extra in regards to the issues to do in Koh Lanta right here.
5. Krabi City
Within the south of Thailand close to Koh Lanta island, the area of Krabi is ripe for journey. Krabi City is the city hub on the coronary heart of all of it.
Why is Krabi a prime vacation spot for digital nomads?
Krabi has all the advantages of the islands, comparable to lovely seashores and diving alternatives, however entry to mainland comforts.
With miles of shoreline and inland points of interest to discover, it’s among the finest locations to stay in Thailand for individuals who’ll get tired of life on a tiny island.
WiFi speeds
Round 25 mbps; not the very best nor the worst.
Krabi City co-working areas
Krabi City has loads of first rate cafes the place you’ll be able to seize a espresso and work however your finest wager for a devoted co-working area is Phansa.Area, a brief drive from Krabi City close to Ao Nang Seaside.
One other laptop computer-friendly possibility is Lekker Cafe and Restaurant the place you should purchase fairly priced food and drinks and keep for a number of hours. The WiFi is speedy, plus it’s spacious and normally quiet.
The way to discover an house in Krabi City?
Examine the actual property web site or YourKrabi.com for medium-long keep choices. As ever, Airbnb is an efficient choice to bag a month-to-month low cost.
Value of residing in Krabi
Krabi is among the least expensive locations to stay in Thailand as a result of there’s an abundance of lodging and also you received’t be affected by inflated island costs in peak seasons.
You’ll simply get by on $1,000 a month. There’s loads of avenue meals in addition to native markets and supermarkets the place you’ll be able to choose up inexpensive elements and put together your personal meals.
Execs and cons of residing in Krabi
Krabi has extra of a repute with backpackers than digital nomads so you will discover the group transient as individuals journey between Thailand and Koh Lanta for digital nomad life.
Issues to do in Krabi City
Discover the Krabi seashores like Ao Nang and Railay. From right here, you’ll be able to kayak and go mountain climbing and mountaineering.
Thung Teao Forest Pure Park is a paradise for hikers with uncommon wildlife and the idyllic Crystal Pool the place you cool off after a day mountain climbing. Principally, Krabi is a mecca for out of doors adventurers. There are quite a few enjoyable actions in Krabi to maintain you busy.
6. Phuket
Phuket is an island in southern Thailand related to the mainland by highway. For a few years, it’s been a hub for vacationers and since 2021, it’s turn out to be a nomad hub.
Why is Phuket a fantastic place for digital nomads in Thailand?
Phuket has been voted not simply among the finest locations in Thailand for digital nomads however the finest in the entire world! It’s secure and low-cost with lots to do and many locations to work. I didn’t ever need to go away.
Coworking areas in Phuket
Hatch is among the finest locations to work on the town with ergonomic chairs and speedy WiFi. It’s 100 baht for two hours or you’ll be able to splash out on a full month move for five,700 baht.
Different good working spots embody Storage Society in Patong Seaside and Phuket Stash in Koh Kaew.
WiFi speeds
Very quick! You’ll haven’t any bother discovering good WiFi in Phuket. You don’t suppose it might have earned the standing of the world’s finest digital nomad vacation spot with out it, do you?
The way to discover an house in Phuket?
Use actual property web sites, Airbnb or ebook a room at Phuket Stash. Phuket City is the very best place to remain because it’s close by to co-working areas and away from Patong which could be fairly touristy and loud.
Value of residing in Phuket
Regardless of its recognition, it’s not arduous to stay cheaply in Phuket offering you keep away from touristy areas which I believe when you’re a digital nomad in Thailand, you’re eager to anyway. $1,000 a month is affordable offering you go to native eating places and store at native markets.
Execs and Cons of Dwelling in Phuket
Though it has all of the services to be a fantastic digital nomad vacation spot, it’s not fairly as lovely because the islands, not fairly as nice as Chiang Mai and never fairly as cosmopolitan as Bangkok. It does the job however you might not fall in love…
Issues to do in Phuket
Head to Phang Nga bay, go to the Phi Phi islands, hike to the Massive Buddha statue and admire Chalong Temple, a 60-meter Buddhist pilgrimage website. This island presents travellers and digital nomads a number of issues to see and do.
7. Koh Samui
The bigger neighbor of Koh Phangan is Koh Samui. Though it historically had a repute for resorts, it’s not too long ago turn out to be referred to as a spot to work remotely in Thailand, presumably as an overspill from Phangan.
Why is Koh Samui a fantastic digital nomad vacation spot?
It’s lovely, has lots to do, a lot of cafes (together with co-working ones) and eating places. Though there are barely fewer digital nomads than in Koh Phangan, you might just like the extra relaxed vibe.
WiFi speeds
You received’t have any issues at co-working areas or motels, plus additionally, you will discover inexpensive 4G SIM playing cards for buy.
Co-working areas on Koh Samui
Mantra Work Lounge is a wonderful place to work resembling an expensive house. The views from the terrace once you want a break are equally beautiful.
You might also need to take a look at WYSIWYG Coworking Area & Cafe which has two flooring of co-working area and quick WiFi.
The way to discover an house on Koh Samui?
Use a rental company comparable to Samui Renting or Airbnb and Fb teams to seek out inexpensive medium to long run leases.
Lamai and Chaweng areas have essentially the most on provide by way of infrastructure, eating places, and good residences however put together for them to be busy and noisy when you keep too near the centre.
Value of residing in Koh Samui
Prices of residing on Koh Samui are barely increased than the mainland. Chances are you’ll need to price range between $1,000 and $1,500 a month however you are able to do it on the decrease finish when you eat native meals moderately than Western and keep away from lavish nights out.
Execs and cons of residing in Koh Samui
Except for the very fact the nomad group is extra lively in different digital nomad cities in Thailand, there aren’t any big drawbacks of residing in Koh Samui.
Having mentioned that, islands aren’t as enjoyable in unhealthy climate, plus you might must make occasional journeys to the mainland to purchase issues the Samui shops have run out of.
Issues to do on Koh Samui
Absorb the seashores together with Chaweng Seaside, Chaweng Noi and hidden gem, Laem Setbeach. Take a tour or rent a ship to Ang Thong Nationwide Marine Park for snorkeling with colourful sea life.
Skilled divers can look out for whale sharks and black coral at Sail Rock. For a unusual tour, discover Secret Buddha Backyard on the prime of Pom Mountain. Discover out extra in regards to the prime issues to do in Koh Samui right here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Digital Nomad Information to Dwelling in Koh Samui
8. Hua Hin
A couple of hours south of Bangkok by automobile or practice, Hua Hin is a thriving resort city. It’s a well-liked weekend vacation spot for Bangkok residents, and it has steadily turn out to be one of many prime locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads who just like the seashore however need quick access to the massive metropolis. That’s why I selected to remain there for a number of weeks, which was for much longer than I’d deliberate!
Why is Hua Hin a fantastic digital nomad vacation spot?
Hua Hin has a reasonably seashore, a pleasant vibe, and a fantastic location. A digital nomad in Thailand will discover quite a bit to love about it.
WiFi speeds
The WiFi in Hua Hin is mostly quick and dependable.
Co-working areas in Hua Hin
The aptly named Co Working Area Hua Hin is a pleasant spot that’s fashionable with digital nomads in Thailand.
9. Pattaya
Higher recognized and extra established than Hua Hin, Pattaya is one other fashionable resort city close to Bangkok. It has a repute as a touristy get together spot, however there’s additionally quite a bit about it that makes it an acceptable place to stay for a digital nomad in Thailand.
Why is Pattaya a fantastic digital nomad vacation spot?
Pattaya is near Bangkok, has well-developed infrastructure, and loads of eating and nightlife choices. It’s additionally proper on the seashore.
WiFi speeds
Most foreigners residing in Thailand will discover the WiFi acceptable in Pattaya.
Co-working areas in Pattaya
There are many co-working areas to select from in Pattaya. rPod is a well-liked co-working area with affordable charges and good air-con.
10. Koh Mak
The tiny island of Koh Mak won’t look like an apparent selection for the place to stay in Thailand as a digital nomad. However this up-and-coming vacationer vacation spot options an especially enticing co-working place. I assumed it was among the finest I’d used wherever.
Why is Koh Mak a fantastic digital nomad vacation spot?
Koh Mak is tropical paradise, and because it’s a little bit off the overwhelmed path, it doesn’t obtain the crowds like different extra well-known island locations like Phuket and Koh Samui.
Co-working areas in Koh Mak
Koh Mak makes this listing of the very best locations for a digital nomad in Thailand for one purpose: Koh Mak Campus. It presents personal villas, two bars and eating places, and greater than 150 sq. meters of co-working area.
Dwelling in Thailand Execs and Cons
Working remotely in Thailand is all the time a good suggestion, however there could be professionals and cons. As I’ve lined, the professionals are the inexpensive costs, the seashores, and the nomad communities.
Nonetheless, there are a couple of downsides, the principle one being the visas. You solely get a 30-day visa on entry though you’ll be able to apply for a 2 or 6 month one on the Thai Embassy.
The tradition of ‘saving face’ could be additionally complicated round Thailand and should baffle you once you ask for instructions.
Principally, if individuals don’t know the reply to your query, they might make up incorrect instructions to seem pleasant and useful. Whereas the intention is pure, you might spend a whole lot of time misplaced in Bangkok!
Visitors within the cities and the odd vacationer rip-off may also be an annoyance however you’ll quickly get the hold of staying savvy.
Dwelling in Thailand FAQs
Learn on for solutions to some regularly requested questions on the place to stay in Thailand.
If you need seashores and tropical paradise, you’ve gotten quite a few choices for the place to stay in Thailand, together with Phuket and Koh Samui. If an city surroundings is extra to your liking, then look no additional than Bangkok. For a relaxed tempo of life away from the seashore, take a look at Chiang Mai.
Because the nation’s largest metropolis, Bangkok has essentially the most foreigners. Different areas with many foreigners residing in Thailand are Chiang Mai and Koh Samui.
Low costs, pleasant individuals, excellent delicacies, and lots to see and do implies that Thailand is completely a great place for foreigners to stay. A digital nomad in Thailand has loads of causes to remain.
Sure, you’ll be able to stay on $1,500 a month in Thailand, and even perhaps much less. Comparatively low costs make residing in Thailand fairly inexpensive.
Individuals from many nations obtain a 30 or 45 day visa on arrival. There’s additionally a 90-day Particular Vacationer Visa (STV), which permits two 90-day extensions for a most of 9 months within the nation.
Conclusion
To summarise, there are numerous locations to be a digital nomad in Thailand. Bangkok is the clear winner if you would like a cosmopolitan metropolis whereas Chiang Mai is the place to stay in Thailand when you like your metropolis facilities with out the site visitors and large metropolis rush.
Koh Phangan has the very best island nomad group, however Koh Lanta and Koh Samui are nice choices if you wish to loosen up and work someplace quieter.
Krabi and Phuket sit someplace between island and metropolis life making them first rate choices if you would like fashionable facilities with seashores close by. You actually can’t go fallacious! Thailand is digital nomad heaven.
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