Pros and cons of living in Bangkok, Thailand

Like any big city, Bangkok has its areas where a bit of caution goes a long way. Photo by Florian Wehde, unsplash.com

Bangkok is generally a safe city, but a little caution goes a long way. Keep your money tucked away in secure bags, avoid counting large sums in public, and always keep an eye on your wallets, phones, and cameras. Pay extra attention to your belongings in bustling areas like Khao San Road or Nana-Sukhumvit, and when queuing for popular temples. There are no truly dangerous areas for tourists, but it’s wise to steer clear of neighborhoods with shady reputations, like the infamous red-light districts – Patpong, Nana, Soi Cowboy, Phrom Phong, and Huai Khwang – where clubs, bars, dubious venues, and drugs abound.

Adjusting to Thai traffic is also a must. Drivers typically don't slow down for pedestrians, even at crosswalks. Flashing high beams usually mean the driver has no intention of stopping.

Pros: Each district in Bangkok is like a mini city. Even neighboring business and tourist centers feel like two different worlds with their unique architecture, pace of life, and people. Exploring all these contrasts is incredibly fascinating!

Bangkok isn't exactly built for leisurely strolls, with limited pedestrian-friendly spots. Photo by John Mukiibi Elijah, unsplash.com

Bangkok might be a concrete jungle, but it's one with its own unique charm. The city grapples with traffic jams and pollution, so much so that locals were donning masks long before it was trendy. Leisurely outings are limited to parks and retail centers since sidewalks are a rare luxury, mostly found in the city center and often crowded with delicious food stalls. Don’t expect to see parents casually walking with strollers; shopping mall halls are the go-to for such activities.

Navigating the streets means elbowing your way through the throngs, especially during rush hour. According to English Wikipedia, Greater Bangkok’s daytime population swells by a million as people flood in from neighboring provinces for work. Add to that the title of the world's most visited city, and you've got several hundred thousand tourists to weave through.

Pros: Bangkok shines compared to many other Asian capitals with its affordable cost of living and impressive urban infrastructure. For instance, the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $680 – and this will get you a fantastic option with floor-to-ceiling windows and a view from the 25th floor.

The city's streets are a tangled web of electric wires. Photo by Hanny Naibaho, unsplash.com

The internet in Bangkok might not be its strongest suit. Despite annual improvements in speed and reliability, it can still be a bit lacking for those who need constant, uninterrupted connectivity for work. For a rock-solid connection, you might need to install a dedicated fiber optic line or rely on 4G tethering.

Bangkok's three major operators – AIS, True Mobile, and DTAC – offer unlimited mobile internet starting at $5.50 per month, depending on the speed. To snag these deals, head to the operator’s office and ask about current promotions. Regular SIM cards are more expensive, and tourist SIM cards, sold at airports, are even pricier at $16 for just 15 days.

Pros: No intercity roaming in Thailand! A SIM card bought in Bangkok will work all over the country – from Samui to Phuket, Pattaya to Krabi – with a single rate, making it a breeze to stay connected no matter where your adventures take you.

Umbrellas offer some relief from the blazing sun, but it's still pretty toasty. Photo by John Mukiibi Elijah, unsplash.com

Bangkok has a reputation for being one of the hottest cities in the world, and it lives up to it. The intense heat is paired with high humidity, making the outdoors feel like a steamy sauna. Move too quickly, and your shirt will cling to you like a second skin. The only true comfort is found in air-conditioned spaces.

The scorching heat begins in April and stretches into the autumn months. Fall brings heavy tropical rains, mostly at night, that can cause sudden floods but usually last only about an hour. May and August are the least popular months to visit due to the extreme heat and humidity. And with no seaside access, there's no quick escape to cool waters.

On top of that, Bangkok is slowly sinking under its own weight, a few centimeters each year, while sea levels rise. Scientists warn that much of the city could be underwater by 2050.

Pros: Bangkok's prime location makes it a perfect launchpad for travel. Local airlines are super cheap, giving you a golden opportunity to explore Asia and dive into the rich cultures of nearby countries.

Old carts puffing along add to the city's air pollution woes. Photo by Gabriel Vidal, unsplash.com

The city struggles with pollution from a mix of industrial areas and traffic jams. During the dry season, the problem gets worse as farmers across the country burn their fields in preparation for the next planting. From early December to late March, Bangkok often finds itself among the top cities with the worst air quality in the world. Car exhausts here are a far cry from European standards. Imagine sleek, high-tech skyscrapers juxtaposed with the sight of an old, barely-there truck belching out thick black smoke as it rumbles by, leaving a lingering cloud in its wake.

The city does try to tackle the smog with air-purifying devices and water trucks aimed at suppressing the haze, but locals aren’t too convinced these efforts do much good.

Pros: On the bright side, indoor environments benefit from cleaner air due to filters and conditioning. Plus, it's easy to escape to the coast or mountains, where you can enjoy cooler temperatures, lush jungles, and a refreshing burst of fresh breeze.

Some canals in Bangkok have stagnant water that can create quite a stench. Photo by Markus Winkler, unsplash.com

In Thailand, trash cans are something of a rarity – your best bet is to pop into a shopping mall if you’re on the lookout for a bin. On the streets, garbage often piles up until the truck arrives, occasionally attracting rats or giant Thai cockroaches. Mold is another common problem in Bangkok’s climate. Without regular airing out and sunlight, your home and belongings, especially electronics, are prone to mildew and damage from the humidity.

Bangkok’s canals, or klongs, have earned comparisons to Venice with their winding waterways. However, some are filled with stagnant, foul-smelling water that can even reach the 30th floor. In contrast, Chiang Mai’s canals have systems to prevent such issues, so you won’t encounter swampy odors there.

Pros: On the upside, Thailand, and Bangkok in particular, are famous for their excellent healthcare, especially in the field of surgery. Many foreigners come here specifically for top-notch cosmetic, plastic, and dental procedures, enjoying world-class medical care.

The common house gecko, always ready to say hello to the insects. Photo by Basile Morin, licensed under CC BY 4.0

If you’ve got a fear of insects, get ready for a wild ride. Bangkok is practically a bug paradise, starting with the ever-present mosquitoes and midges. These little critters can carry malaria and dengue fever, and their bites are not only itchy but also slow to heal. Arm yourself with powerful repellents and make sure those mosquito nets in your room are tightly secured.

Ants are another story – they can invade your space in seconds if you leave even a tiny morsel of food unattended. Their larger red relatives, who prefer jungle life, might also show up near your home from time to time. Centipedes are also common in Thailand, and they can make an appearance just about anywhere. Don’t touch them – many are venomous or have a painful sting.

Pros: On the bright side, having a gecko on your ceiling is a win. These lizards, reaching up to 30 cm, are like tiny pest-control experts, munching on rodents, ants, and other insects to keep your space bug-free.

Whipping up som tum papaya salad at Som Tam Jay So in Bangkok. Photo by Streets of Food, unsplash.com

When you first land in Bangkok, be prepared for a spicy shock – Thai cuisine is known for its intense heat and bold seasonings that might just take your breath away! As you gradually get used to the exotic dishes, you might find yourself missing the simple comforts of home, like a warm bowl of oatmeal or a hearty stew that doesn't set your mouth on fire.

Don’t worry, though – Bangkok’s food scene is a delightful mix of flavors, from spicy Thai delights to comforting European classics. So if you’re itching to try something new or just want a familiar bite, here are some top spots to check out:

Approaching House on Sathorn, you'll be wowed by the striking contrast: a grand colonial mansion from the 1900s sitting next to the modern W Hotel, surrounded by glittering skyscrapers. Once a haven for diplomats and nobility, it now invites everyone to enjoy a touch of old-world charm, whether for a classy afternoon tea or a sophisticated dinner.

The menu is a delectable blend of Thai and European flavors. Kick off with Jean-Paul oysters omelet, then savor succulent giant river prawns, grilled to perfection and bathed in rich ‘choo chee’ curry sauce. For meat lovers, grilled duck breast in tamarind sauce or Crying Tiger steak are must-tries.

The restaurant offers impressive bottle service, including top-notch whiskies. Don’t miss the cocktail menu, where Thai ingredients mingle with world-class spirits, and save room for dessert – their coconut sundae and Thai tea-ramisu are divine.

Heritage Afternoon Tea set – from $37, available every day from 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Once a hidden gem for expats and savvy foodies, Eat Me Restaurant has shed the secret status over its 25-year history. Founded in the '90s by Australian siblings Darren and Cherie Hausler, it was their dream hangout – a place for great food, fine wine, and excellent company.

The restaurant buzzes with energy, thanks to its vibrant bar where you can enjoy a sundowner alongside inventive amuse bouche. The cocktail menu, crafted by mixologist Pop Direkrittkul, is a standout, featuring unique additions like toasted rice and Thai anchovy, paired with top-notch spirits.

The menu offers a range of extraordinary flavors. Splurge on Australian black winter truffle and Kamchatka king crab, or stick to a budget without sacrificing taste. Start with sea urchin bruschetta, nduja sausage with honeycomb, or grilled abalone with phytoplankton. For mains, try uni & ikura risotto, Australian saltbush lamb rack with artichokes and goat cheese, or explore the vegetarian options. With the kitchen open until 1 am, late-night diners can enjoy a delicious meal without heading home hungry.

Average bill – $45

In Bangkok, where skyscrapers dominate, rooftop bars are a must for taking in the dazzling vistas. Seen Restaurant & Bar, perched on the 26th floor of the Avani Hotel, offers one of the best views of the Chao Phraya River and the sparkling cityscape below. But the real draw is Portuguese celebrity chef Olivier Da Costa, who mixes local ingredients with flavors from Mexico, Japan, and Portugal.

Start with quinoa & cheese croquettes or crispy pork belly bao with chipotle sauce. For a touch of luxury, try Gillardeau oysters or tacos stuffed with Alaskan crab. The chef’s specials, like black Angus beef cheek al tequila or plancha-seared Hokkaido scallops, are also must-tries. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Japanese Mystery Box for a surprise selection of chef’s bites. And don’t miss desserts – for instance, Seen’s 100% chocolate caviar is a treat you won’t forget. Plus, the Infinity Pool menu offers inventive Asian-inspired cocktails and rolls, perfect for a high-altitude indulgence.

Average bill – $65

If you're a seasoned traveler, these little Bangkok’s quirks won’t bother you, especially when you consider the vastness of this city. And those restaurants we’ve suggested – they’re truly out of this world. Can’t wait to hear what you think of them!