Working remotely in Thailand is what goals are product of. 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 thought – I can’t keep away!), I lived comfortably on $1,000 a month and by no means had a foul meal.
To date, I’ve labored remotely from all of the locations on this information and travelled round so many various locations in Thailand. I by no means get bored with this heat, pleasant nation and might’t wait to get again.
10 Finest Locations to Stay in Thailand for Digital Nomads
Think about working beside a swimming pool or lovely seaside 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 implausible islands for livin’ la vida nomad!
One other implausible 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 without doubt one of the finest cities in Thailand, whether or not you’re a vacationer or a nomad.
Why is Bangkok a high metropolis for digital nomads?
It could be higher to ask why Bangkok ISN’T an incredible digital nomad metropolis in Thailand! It has quick WiFi, loads of co-working areas, a implausible third-wave espresso scene, and countless expat communities you may faucet into.
From podcasts to Fb teams, I discovered it straightforward to search 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 boring weekend.
Bangkok co-working areas
To work remotely in Thailand, you’ve 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 variety of packages to select from relying on whether or not you want full-time entry and your individual 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
Not like some cities the place there’s a transparent expat space, you’ve loads of choices in Bangkok.
As probably the greatest digital nomad cities in Thailand, there are just a few areas to earmark for renting an condo.
Ekkamai has a hipster vibe and loads of bars and eating places. You may additionally need to try Phrom Phong, a nice, relaxed space of city with a big park and plenty of espresso retailers.
To seek out an condo in Bangkok, you need to use 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 hold 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 may also store for contemporary elements at native markets slightly 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.
Professionals & 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 in every single place you look.
The primary draw back of residing in Bangkok is the 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), purchasing 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 attractive 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 is dependent upon what sort of metropolis vibe you get pleasure from. I discovered it a refreshing change of tempo after the considerably hectic time I spent in Bangkok.
In the event you want a extra relaxed tempo of life, then you should analysis digital nomad cities in Thailand no additional. Chiang Mai is for you.
Why is Chiang Mai a high metropolis for digital nomads?
There’s unbelievable meals, not an excessive amount of visitors, lovely nature, plenty of different nomads to satisfy. Principally, Chiang Mai is without doubt one of the finest cities to stay in Thailand. It has every little thing you want as a digital nomad base.
Higher but, it’s one of many most cost-effective 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 just a few choices whether or not you desire a social co-working area or someplace quieter to get your head down.
Your finest guess is Punspace, Chiang Mai’s unique co-working area which has been open for practically a decade.
There are two branches, one in Nimman with a stunning, giant backyard space when you should take a break. Nonetheless, this department will get a bit crowded so that you would possibly want the Tha Pae location inside a spacious warehouse-style constructing.
WiFi speeds
A mean of 93 Mbps obtain and 88 Mbps add speeds.
Find out how to discover residences in Chiang Mai
To discover a rental, try Excellent Houses or control the Expat Fb teams. Another choice is long-term Airbnb stays. You get an honest low cost whenever you choose to remain a month or longer.
The most effective 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 retailers, Western eating places, experimental Thai delicacies. You identify it, Nimman’s bought it!
Value of residing in Chiang Mai
You possibly can simply stay for below $1,000 a month in Chiang Mai.
Count on to pay round $600 a month for a 1-bedroom condo though this varies relying on the neighborhood and the way lengthy you’re staying (typically, it’s cheaper the longer you signal for).
You possibly can pay lower than $500 on your month-to-month meals and transport in Chiang Mai. Avenue 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 greater than $20.
Hiring a scooter prices as little as $70 a month. You may also depend on Uber and Seize to get round. There are at all times loads of automobiles round and it’s cheap. Across the Previous Metropolis, it’s straightforward to get in every single place by foot, however put together for it to be sizzling at sure instances of the 12 months.
Professionals & cons of residing in Chiang Mai
The foremost 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 means of all of them. Hike by means 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 social gathering goers eager to expertise the notorious full moon social gathering, Koh Phangan now has a repute as probably the greatest locations in Thailand for digital nomads.
There are many co-working areas and cafes the place you may 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 an incredible neighborhood. If you wish to meet like-minded distant staff, observe yoga, and benefit from the seaside life, that is simply probably the greatest locations to stay in Thailand. The one draw back is the danger of sand in your laptop computer.
Koh Phangan coworking areas
Beachub on the north of the island is a good 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 possibly can ebook your lodging and co-working area in a single package deal if you happen to’re eager for a bougie, vacation vibe!
WiFi speeds
Respectable. Ensure that to make use of WiFi at devoted co-working areas slightly than the touristic seaside cafes; some are fairly sluggish.
Find out how to discover an condo on Koh Phangan
Try Koh Phangan Leases, Fb teams, and month-to-month offers on Airbnbs.
Value of residing in Koh Phangan
Exterior of the excessive season, $1,000 per particular person per 30 days is an efficient quantity to finances.
Though there are just a few markets like Phantip Market in Thong Sala, you gained’t discover the identical abundance of avenue meals as you’ll in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. The eating places are additionally dearer.
Price range $70 for a scooter and a bit extra for fuel; it’s mainly the one approach to get across the island.
Professionals & cons of residing in Koh Phangan
It could get costly in the course of 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 completed all three, and so they’re all price your time. Strive diving at Sail Rock or trek to Bottle Seaside, one of the vital lovely on the island. There are lots of out of doors issues to do in Koh Phangan.
4. Koh Lanta
One other probably the greatest locations in Thailand for digital nomads is Koh Lanta, a phenomenal island off the coast of Krabi. It’s a small island that may be explored by scooter with lovely seashores and loads of respectable 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 often called one of many locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads.
WiFi speeds
Normally okay however test your lodging’s WiFi speeds earlier than reserving to keep away from disappointment.
Find out how to discover an condo on Koh Lanta?
There are many web sites you’ll discover by means of Google which have residences for hire. Renting month-to-month Airbnbs can also be a very good possibility, or you may 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 well probably the greatest locations in Thailand for digital nomads, it’s not the most affordable. In the identical means as Koh Phangan, you’ll discover extra vacationer costs and it’s tougher to get a discount than in a metropolis.
Nonetheless, you may nonetheless get by on $1,000 a month if you happen to get a very good price on lodging and hunt down lower-priced eating places.
Professionals 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 neighborhood. All the buddies 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 an incredible place to remain energetic. Then, calm down on the seaside later with a cocktail! You may also 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 high vacation spot for digital nomads?
Krabi has all the advantages of the islands, corresponding to lovely seashores and diving alternatives, however entry to mainland comforts.
With miles of shoreline and inland sights to discover, it’s probably the greatest locations to stay in Thailand for many 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 respectable cafes the place you may seize a espresso and work however your finest guess 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 moderately priced food and drinks and keep for a number of hours. The WiFi is speedy, plus it’s spacious and normally quiet.
Find out how to discover an condo in Krabi City?
Examine the true 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 without doubt one of the most cost-effective locations to stay in Thailand as a result of there’s an abundance of lodging and also you gained’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 may decide up inexpensive elements and put together your individual meals.
Professionals and cons of residing in Krabi
Krabi has extra of a repute with backpackers than digital nomads so you could find the neighborhood transient as folks 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 may kayak and go mountaineering 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 mountaineering. 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 street. For a few years, it’s been a hub for vacationers and since 2021, it’s grow to be a nomad hub.
Why is Phuket an incredible place for digital nomads in Thailand?
Phuket has been voted not simply probably the greatest locations in Thailand for digital nomads however the finest in the entire world! It’s secure and low-cost with lots to do and plenty of locations to work. I didn’t ever need to go away.
Coworking areas in Phuket
Hatch is without doubt one of the finest locations to work on the town with ergonomic chairs and speedy WiFi. It’s 100 baht for two hours or you may splash out on a full month move for five,700 baht.
Different good working spots embrace Storage Society in Patong Seaside and Phuket Stash in Koh Kaew.
WiFi speeds
Very quick! You’ll haven’t any hassle discovering good WiFi in Phuket. You don’t suppose it will have earned the standing of the world’s finest digital nomad vacation spot with out it, do you?
Find out how to discover an condo 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 may be fairly touristy and loud.
Value of residing in Phuket
Regardless of its reputation, it’s not exhausting to stay cheaply in Phuket offering you keep away from touristy areas which I believe if you happen to’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.
Professionals and Cons of Dwelling in Phuket
Though it has all of the amenities to be an incredible 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 gives 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 lately grow to be often called a spot to work remotely in Thailand, probably as an overspill from Phangan.
Why is Koh Samui an incredible digital nomad vacation spot?
It’s lovely, has lots to do, plenty 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 gained’t have any issues at co-working areas or inns, plus additionally, you will discover inexpensive 4G SIM playing cards for buy.
Co-working areas on Koh Samui
Mantra Work Lounge is a phenomenal place to work resembling an expensive condo. The views from the terrace whenever you want a break are equally beautiful.
You may additionally need to try WYSIWYG Coworking Area & Cafe which has two flooring of co-working area and quick WiFi.
Find out how to discover an condo on Koh Samui?
Use a rental company corresponding to Samui Renting or Airbnb and Fb teams to search out inexpensive medium to long run leases.
Lamai and Chaweng areas have essentially the most on supply by way of infrastructure, eating places, and good residences however put together for them to be busy and noisy if you happen to keep too near the centre.
Value of residing in Koh Samui
Prices of residing on Koh Samui are barely larger than the mainland. You could need to finances between $1,000 and $1,500 a month however you are able to do it on the decrease finish if you happen to eat native meals slightly than Western and keep away from lavish nights out.
Professionals and cons of residing in Koh Samui
Apart from the very fact the nomad neighborhood is extra energetic in different digital nomad cities in Thailand, there are not any enormous drawbacks of residing in Koh Samui.
Having stated 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
Take in 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 high of Pom Mountain. Discover out extra in regards to the high issues to do in Koh Samui right here.
☞ SEE ALSO: Digital Nomad Information to Dwelling in Koh Samui
8. Hua Hin
A number of hours south of Bangkok by automotive or prepare, Hua Hin is a thriving resort city. It’s a preferred weekend vacation spot for Bangkok residents, and it has progressively grow to be one of many high locations to stay in Thailand for digital nomads who just like the seaside however need easy accessibility to the large 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 an incredible digital nomad vacation spot?
Hua Hin has a reasonably seaside, a pleasant vibe, and an incredible location. A digital nomad in Thailand will discover loads to love about it.
WiFi speeds
The WiFi in Hua Hin is usually quick and dependable.
Co-working areas in Hua Hin
The aptly named Co Working Area Hua Hin is a pleasant spot that’s widespread with digital nomads in Thailand.
9. Pattaya
Higher recognized and extra established than Hua Hin, Pattaya is one other widespread resort city close to Bangkok. It has a repute as a touristy social gathering spot, however there’s additionally loads about it that makes it an acceptable place to stay for a digital nomad in Thailand.
Why is Pattaya an incredible 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 seaside.
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 cheap charges and good air-con.
10. Koh Mak
The tiny island of Koh Mak won’t appear to be 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 believed it was probably the greatest I’d used wherever.
Why is Koh Mak an incredible digital nomad vacation spot?
Koh Mak is tropical paradise, and because it’s a 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 gives non-public villas, two bars and eating places, and greater than 150 sq. meters of co-working area.
Dwelling in Thailand Professionals and Cons
Working remotely in Thailand is at all times a good suggestion, however there may be professionals and cons. As I’ve lined, the professionals are the inexpensive costs, the seashores, and the nomad communities.
Nonetheless, there are just a few downsides, the principle one being the visas. You solely get a 30-day visa on entry though you may apply for a 2 or 6 month one on the Thai Embassy.
The tradition of ‘saving face’ may be additionally complicated round Thailand and will baffle you whenever you ask for instructions.
Principally, if folks don’t know the reply to your query, they could make up incorrect instructions to look pleasant and useful. Whereas the intention is pure, you might spend loads of time misplaced in Bangkok!
Site visitors within the cities and the odd vacationer rip-off may also be an annoyance however you’ll quickly get the cling of staying savvy.
Dwelling in Thailand FAQs
Learn on for solutions to some continuously requested questions on the place to stay in Thailand.
If you would like seashores and tropical paradise, you’ve quite a few choices for the place to stay in Thailand, together with Phuket and Koh Samui. If an city atmosphere is extra to your liking, then look no additional than Bangkok. For a relaxed tempo of life away from the seaside, try 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 folks, excellent delicacies, and lots to see and do implies that Thailand is completely a very good place for foreigners to stay. A digital nomad in Thailand has loads of causes to remain.
Sure, you may stay on $1,500 a month in Thailand, and maybe even much less. Comparatively low costs make residing in Thailand fairly inexpensive.
Individuals from many international locations 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 need a cosmopolitan metropolis whereas Chiang Mai is the place to stay in Thailand if you happen to like your metropolis facilities with out the visitors and massive metropolis rush.
Koh Phangan has the very best island nomad neighborhood, however Koh Lanta and Koh Samui are nice choices if you wish to calm down and work someplace quieter.
Krabi and Phuket sit someplace between island and metropolis life making them respectable choices if you need fashionable facilities with seashores close by. You actually can’t go fallacious! Thailand is digital nomad heaven.
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