What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Bangkok. They wrote...
"Struggle with language!!! Reading a menu that I can't read. I live in a 99.9% Thai area and have to rely on pointing and the basic language skills I am developing. If the taxi goes off the normal route on a dark, rainy night, I have no idea where I am, or where I am going. (I can share my ride during curfew, if anyone is interested, it's funny in the end)," remarked another expat in Bangkok, Thailand.
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Bangkok is the language barrier. Many locals speak only Thai, making it difficult for expats to communicate and understand the culture. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are often quite different from those of other countries. Furthermore, the traffic and pollution in Bangkok can be overwhelming for expats who are not used to such a large and bustling city. Finally, the cost of living in Bangkok can be high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy," said a member in Bangkok, Thailand.

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Other Questions:
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- What do I need to know before moving to Bangkok?
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- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bangkok?
- What is the average cost of housing in Bangkok?
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- What should I pack when moving to Bangkok?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Bangkok?
- Will I be able to find a job in Bangkok?
- What is life like in Bangkok?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Bangkok?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Bangkok?
- What is the social scene like in Bangkok?
- What advice to expats in Bangkok have about housing?
- What are medical services in Bangkok like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bangkok?
- Is the cost of living in Bangkok high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Bangkok?
- Why do people move to Bangkok?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Bangkok, newcomers to Bangkok would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.