Resources for Expats

MONEY

Currency

The unit of Thai currency is the baht, abbreviated B or Bt. There are 100 satang  (pronounced “satang”) to a baht.  Coins and notes are color-coded
for easy identification, graduated in size according to amount, and marked with Thai and Arabic numerals.

Notes: B10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000
Coins: 25, and 50 satang (copper); B1, B5, and B10 (silver with copper inlay)
B5 is octagonal with a copper rim that distinguishes it from the B1 coin.

Banks

Banks provide standard services nationwide, Monday through Friday, except public and bank holidays, between 08.30 AM. and 3.30 PM. Bank currency exchange centers operate from 7.00 AM. to 9.00 PM, seven days a week including holidays.

ATMs

Most major banks, although not all branches, have automatic teller machines teller machines (ATMs) located throughout Bangkok and other large cities.  Some ATMs provide Visa and MasterCard/Cirrus access.

Making Purchases and Paying Bills

Most international credit cards are accepted in many restaurants, department stores, and large shops.  Cash should be used when bargaining
for goods in small shops and markets.

Personal checks are not commonly used; they are used mainly by businesses and not for shopping, although some stores accept local checks
from regular customers.  Restaurants do not accept personal checks

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Sanitation Conditions

Sanitary conditions in Thailand do not always meet the standards of many Western countries and so precautions should be taken with water
consumption, eating out, and food preparation.

Drinking water should be purchased in bottles and tap water, although chlorinated, should not be drunk.

Use normal common sense and make sure foods are washed and handled correctly prior to preparation.

Food served at most malls and major restaurants should be safe to eat but care should be taken when eating “off the street.”

Immunizations

Most expats arrange for immunizations, such as tetanus, prior to their arrival in Thailand. Different doctors have different recommendations on which should be taken, so it is best to consult with your own health care provider.

Diseases and Other Health Concerns

Newcomers to Thailand are highly susceptible to gastrointestinal disorders, colds and other respiratory ailments, fungal infections, and prickly heat as they adjust to the tropical climate.  Increase your intake of fluids to prevent dehydration, get adequate sleep, and try to avoid stress and depression.

Dengue fever, which is transmitted by mosquito bites, is a flu-like illness.  There is no vaccine against it, but use of insect repellent should help.  These mosquitoes tend to bite during the day.

Eat only thoroughly cooked food, drink treated water, wear shoes, do not swim in freshwater, and avoid mosquitoes and other insects

Bangkok has many well-trained, English-speaking general practitioners, specialists, and dentists.  Hospitals are modern and well equipped. 
The quality of care is generally good and inexpensive, although doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for their services.
Dental and orthodontic care is skilled and comparable to the West in large city centers.  Smaller cities or owns often do not possess adequate facilities
or expertise for dental needs.

What If I Get Sick?

The possibility of becoming ill and requiring medical attention is one of the most common concerns in preparing for a move abroad. 

Thailand has world class medical facilities and doctors, and people fly here from all over Asia for treatment.  It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with what’s available before a health issue arises.

Also, before leaving your home country, every member of the family should have a thorough checkup to detect any incipient health problems. 
This should be far enough in advance to permit any necessary treatment before departure.  Follow-ups should be scheduled during home leaves.

Any documentation regarding chronic or on going conditions should be brought with you as well as information regarding any medications you are taking.  If possible, check before your move here to be sure necessary medications are available in Thailand

When traveling in areas where medical resources may be limited or substandard, there are usually arrangements already in place for transporting expatriates who become seriously ill to facilities in other countries where appropriate care can be obtained.  It is a good idea to check out emergency facilities before any need arises.

Health Alerts

It is helpful to be informed in advance as to any endemic or short-term health problems in areas to which you may be traveling.  Agencies of the expatriate’s own government regularly issue country specific advisories available to citizens traveling or relocating abroad.

Crime

Thailand is generally a safe country; however, normal care should be taken, especially in the big cities. Burglary does occasionally occur so secure your premises and your vehicle.

AUTOMOBILES AND DRIVING

Driving in Thailand

Most expatriates employ a driver but driving yourself often brings its own rewards. Driving is on the left hand side of the road.
Although traffic congestion in Bangkok can be bad, it does not take long to get out to the countryside or to visit the coast.  Main signs are in also in English.

Driver’s License

If you reside in Thailand for more than three months and intend to drive, a Thai license is necessary.

THAI CUISINE

Thai cuisine is experiencing worldwide popularity.  The cuisine is both spicy and hot; the degree of heat depends on the kind and amount of
chilies in the dish.  Rice is a staple of the cuisine, and most meals consist of a variety of dishes accompanied by rice.  Curries are popular,
and a variety of condiments and sauces for dipping are served with the food.Bangkok offers a host of fine eating places specializing in a
wide range of international cuisines.  In addition, there are a multitude of pubs and night spots to choose from. 

Bangkok has a wide variety of department stores, shopping malls, boutiques, shops, and open-air markets. 

Clothing

Business dress in Thailand is expected to reflect your wealth and social standing; as a result, your appearance is very important in making the correct impression.

Lightweight natural fabrics, especially cotton, are recommended for comfort in Thailand’s hot and humid climate.  A lightweight jacket or sweater
may be needed in offices, restaurants, and other areas that are air-conditioned, often to excess. 

In general, larger clothing sizes for men, women, and children can be difficult to find.  However, tailors and dressmakers are plentiful and reasonable.
Shoes should be loose fitting to allow for feet to swell in the heat.  Sandals are very popular.  Flat shoes are recommended for the uneven pavement,
and slip-on styles are convenient as shoes must be removed before entering a home or temple.  Shoes are available locally, but larger sizes can be difficult to find.  Shoes can be custom-made inexpensively.

Personal Care Items
Cosmetics and toiletries are readily available in Bangkok at department stores, specialty shops, and supermarkets.  If you have favorite brands,
it is wise to take a supply with you until they can be located locally, or until acceptable substitutes a can be found.

APPLIANCES AND ELECTRONICS

Electricity in Thailand is 220 Volts, 50 Hertz.  No North American appliance can be plugged directly into outlets.  Certain appliances can be made to
work with appropriate transformers and electrical adapters, while others need to be replaced with appliances in the correct voltage and hertz. 
Items such as coffeemakers, toasters, blenders, mixers, most stereos, most computers, and cordless telephones, for example, will work with the
proper transformer.  Others, however, must be 220V 50H-such as televisions, refrigerators, washers/dryers, air conditioners, microwaves,
vacuum cleaners, and electric clocks.

Computers, fax machines, and modems may require a transformer, which is easily obtained at any department or computer store.

Thailand uses primarily the Continental round pin plug, but often outlets combine accommodation for the round Continental and flat USA plugs.

BROADCAST SYSTEM AND EQUIPMENT

Thailand’s broadcasting system is PAL-B (VHF).  There are a number of different formats throughout the world.  North America, for example,
is NTSC-M/M (VHF/UHF) which is incompatible with Thailand’s system.  To receive Thai broadcast and play Thai videotapes and videotapes from
your home country, you will need a full multi-system television and VCR. Telephones in Thailand are now relatively inexpensive and multi-system
versions are available.  Multi channel cable television is widely available and the preferred option for most foreigners.

HIRING HOUSEHOLD HELP

Although not all families on foreign assignment have household help, it is a common practice in Thailand.  The best way to find help is usually through a friend, neighbor, or other expatriate who can attest to the individual’s reliability.  In the best of all possible situations, a well- recommended person, who has worked for an expatriate family relocating from Thailand, becomes available.

Some training of experienced English-speaking help is usually necessary, if only in the particular likes, dislikes, and applicable rules.

Prospective candidates for household employment should be interviewed and their references checked. Be aware of Thailand’s labor laws, especially pertaining to hours, working and living conditions, and provisions for dismissal.  A probationary period is permitted and may be advisable before making a long-term employment commitment.