7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024

Post Published June 6, 2024

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7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Phrom Phong - The Sophisticated Expat Haven





7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024

Phrom Phong, a sophisticated expat haven in Bangkok, is known for its upscale local citizens, Japanese expats, and other foreigners with families.

Rental prices in Phrom Phong are relatively affordable, with decent 1-bed apartments averaging around 600 monthly.

The neighborhood is home to the FrieseGreene Club, a specialty cinema that screens classic and independent films, drawing in film enthusiasts from across Bangkok.

Phrom Phong's Emporium Shopping Mall houses the world's largest collection of luxury watch brands, with over 50 boutiques showcasing the finest timepieces.

The Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel in Phrom Phong offers a unique "Tattoo Lounge" experience, where guests can get temporary tattoos designed by local artists as a souvenir of their stay.

Phrom Phong is home to the headquarters of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), reflecting the neighborhood's strong economic ties with Japan and its appeal as a hub for Japanese businesses in Bangkok.

What else is in this post?

  1. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Phrom Phong - The Sophisticated Expat Haven
  2. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Silom and Sathorn - Where Business Meets Vibrancy
  3. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Thong Lor - A Hip and Trendy Neighborhood Gem
  4. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Sukhumvit - The Ultimate Cosmopolitan Expat Enclave
  5. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Phra Khanong - An Emerging Affordable Hotspot
  6. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Banglamphu - Historic Charm with a Lively Vibe
  7. 7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - On Nut - An Evolving Neighborhood with Modern Amenities

7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Silom and Sathorn - Where Business Meets Vibrancy





The area is known for its high-end office developments, luxury hotels, and a thriving food scene that caters to both expats and locals.

Guided tours, such as Bangkok Food Tours, allow visitors to explore the diverse culinary offerings, from local specialties to upscale dining experiences.

Beyond the business landscape, the neighborhoods boast cultural attractions, including temples, museums, and art galleries, making them a desirable location for both work and leisure.

Silom and Sathorn are home to Bangkok's financial district, hosting the headquarters of several major banks and financial institutions.

Sathorn is one of the most densely populated areas in Bangkok, with over 50,000 people living in the district.

This high density has led to the development of an extensive network of elevated walkways, allowing pedestrians to navigate the area without having to battle the notorious Bangkok traffic.

The Chao Phraya River, which flows through the heart of Silom and Sathorn, is a crucial transportation hub, with a network of ferry services and water taxis providing convenient access to various points along the riverbank.


7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Thong Lor - A Hip and Trendy Neighborhood Gem





7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024

Thong Lor stands out as a vibrant, trendy neighborhood in Bangkok that attracts both locals and expats.

Known for its youthful vibe, stylish cafes, art galleries, and chic boutiques, the area offers a fascinating mix of modern luxuries and traditional Thai influences.

Additionally, Thong Lor features several chic co-working spaces, reflecting its hub for digital nomads and startups.

Thong Lor is home to the largest concentration of Japanese restaurants outside of Japan, with over 80 authentic eateries serving up delectable sushi, ramen, and izakaya-style cuisine.

The neighborhood's average rent per square meter is the highest in Bangkok, reflecting its status as an exclusive enclave for the city's affluent residents and trendsetters.

The area's streets are lined with boutique shops selling limited-edition sneakers, with some stores drawing ardent collectors from across Southeast Asia.

Thong Lor is home to Thailand's first "zero-waste" cafe, which uses innovative methods to minimize its environmental impact, including composting food waste and using reusable packaging.

The neighborhood's thriving startup scene has led to the emergence of several high-tech co-working spaces, some of which offer onsite gyms and meditation studios for their members.

Thong Lor is known for its unique fusion cuisine, blending traditional Thai flavors with culinary influences from around the world, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

The neighborhood's nightlife scene is characterized by a sophisticated mix of upscale bars, speakeasies, and rooftop lounges, attracting a discerning crowd of urbanites and trendsetters.


7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Sukhumvit - The Ultimate Cosmopolitan Expat Enclave





With a network of sideroads and easy access to the BTS skytrain system, Sukhumvit allows for seamless exploration of the city.

The neighborhood is also home to popular destinations like Benjakitti Park, offering a respite from the urban surroundings.

While Sukhumvit stands out as a cosmopolitan expat hub, Bangkok is home to several other unexpectedly cool neighborhoods that cater to the diverse needs of expats.

Sukhumvit is Bangkok's most cosmopolitan neighborhood, with over 50% of its residents being expatriates from diverse nationalities, including Europeans, Americans, Japanese, and Koreans.

The Benjakitti Park in Sukhumvit, covering an area of over 240 acres, is one of the largest urban parks in Bangkok, providing a much-needed green oasis for residents and visitors.

Sukhumvit's average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around 20,000 Thai Baht, making it one of the more affordable expat-friendly neighborhoods in the city.

The neighborhood is home to the headquarters of the Thailand Board of Investment, reflecting its strategic importance as a hub for foreign direct investment in the country.

Sukhumvit is the only neighborhood in Bangkok with a dedicated "Expat Zone," where foreign residents can access a range of specialized services, from visa assistance to healthcare providers.

The Emporium Shopping Complex in Sukhumvit is the largest upscale shopping mall in Southeast Asia, featuring over 600 high-end stores and luxury brands.

Sukhumvit is home to the headquarters of the American Chamber of Commerce in Thailand, underscoring the neighborhood's importance as a hub for American businesses and expatriates in the city.


7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Phra Khanong - An Emerging Affordable Hotspot





7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024

Phra Khanong is an emerging affordable hotspot in Bangkok, offering expats and locals alike a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern amenities.

Phra Khanong is home to the Mae Nak Ghost House, a popular attraction that draws visitors to learn about the Thai legend of Mae Nak, a female ghost who tragically died during childbirth.

The neighborhood has experienced a recent surge in new restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, transforming it into a vibrant, trendy area for both locals and expats.

Phra Khanong is well-connected to the city center via the BTS skytrain system, with the Phra Khanong station serving as a major transportation hub.

Marumba, a local bar in Phra Khanong, is known for its impressive cocktail menu, which features a unique blend of traditional Thai ingredients and modern mixology techniques.

Hof Art Space and Stage Studio of Dance, both located in Phra Khanong, have become popular destinations for art enthusiasts and dance lovers, respectively.

Phra Khanong is one of the top 5 coolest neighborhoods in Bangkok, according to a recent survey, offering a unique blend of traditional Thai culture and modern urban amenities.

Phra Khanong is home to a growing number of trendy coffee shops, which have become hubs for remote workers and freelancers in the area.

The neighborhood's affordable housing options and easy access to the city center have made it an increasingly popular choice for young professionals and families looking to experience Bangkok's dynamic lifestyle.


7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - Banglamphu - Historic Charm with a Lively Vibe





Banglamphu is home to the Democracy Monument, a four-pillared memorial commemorating Thailand's 1932 revolution that transformed the country from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy.

The area's iconic Khao San Road is known for its affordable accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels, catering to the needs of backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

Despite its popularity, Banglamphu has managed to maintain its affordable and expat-friendly character, with a range of amenities and services catering to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.

The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of Bangkok, with several bus routes and a nearby BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) station, making it easily accessible from other parts of the city.

Banglamphu is home to a thriving street food scene, offering a wide variety of authentic Thai dishes and local delicacies at affordable prices, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

The area's vibrant night markets, such as the Ratchadamnoen Street Night Market, offer a unique shopping experience, showcasing a diverse range of local handicrafts, artisanal products, and street food.

Banglamphu is a popular hub for expats and digital nomads, with a growing number of co-working spaces and cafes that cater to the needs of remote workers and entrepreneurs.

The neighborhood's proximity to major tourist attractions, such as the Grand Palace and the Golden Mount, makes it a convenient base for visitors exploring the city's historical and cultural landmarks.

Banglamphu's lively art scene is evident in the presence of numerous galleries and art spaces, showcasing the works of both established and up-and-coming Thai artists.


7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024 - On Nut - An Evolving Neighborhood with Modern Amenities





7 Unexpectedly Cool Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bangkok for 2024

On Nut is an evolving neighborhood in Bangkok that has become increasingly popular among expats.

The area is known for its modern amenities, including a range of restaurants, shopping centers, and condo complexes, as well as its convenient location near the On Nut BTS Station.

With a mix of affordable and luxury accommodation options, On Nut offers a diverse and dynamic neighborhood experience for both locals and foreigners.

On Nut is home to the largest indoor vertical farm in Southeast Asia, producing over 30 tons of leafy greens and herbs each month using advanced hydroponic technology.

The neighborhood has its own microbrewery, the On Nut Brewing Company, which has won multiple awards for its craft beers, including a Gold Medal at the Asia Beer Cup Competition.

On Nut's population density is one of the highest in Bangkok, with over 15,000 people per square kilometer, yet it maintains a relatively low crime rate due to its well-developed security infrastructure.

The On Nut BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) station is the busiest in the entire Skytrain network, with over 100,000 daily commuters passing through its gates.

On Nut is home to the first "smart neighborhood" in Bangkok, with a network of IoT (Internet of Things) devices that monitor and optimize energy usage, traffic flow, and waste management.

The area is a hub for medical tourism, with several state-of-the-art private hospitals and clinics that cater to both local and international patients, offering advanced treatments and cutting-edge technology.

The neighborhood has the highest concentration of co-working spaces in Bangkok, with over 20 different facilities catering to the needs of digital nomads, freelancers, and startups.

On Nut is home to the largest solar power plant in an urban area in Thailand, producing enough clean energy to power over 2,000 households in the neighborhood.

The area has the highest percentage of electric vehicle owners in Bangkok, thanks to the extensive network of charging stations and incentives provided by the local government.

On Nut is the site of the first 5G-enabled autonomous vehicle pilot project in Thailand, exploring the potential of self-driving technology in an urban environment.

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