Bangkok is an interesting location as a digital nomad given that it is very affordable and a very vibrant and lively city.
Many nomads use Bangkok as a stop-over but if you are interested in Thai culture, foods, and love cities, then Bangkok is an excellent place to spend a few months and to work from as a digital nomad.
I highly recommend Bangkok as a destination for a few months and the information below should help you.
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Benefits of Bangkok for Digital Nomads
As a digital nomad looking to work remotely from Bangkok, the city offers some key benefits and these include:
- affordable prices
- wide range of coworking spaces and high-speed internet
- great social scene
- good transport links
- vibrant culture
- great food
1) Cost of Living in Bangkok
The cost of living in Bangkok is considerably lower than in many other major cities, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.
The city is full of great restaurants and attractions that won’t break the bank, while accommodation options are plentiful and affordable.
Options range from short-term apartments to traditional guesthouses and all are likely to be within your budget as a digital nomad.
2) Infrastructure for Remote Working
Bangkok also has a wide range of coworking spaces, allowing digital nomads to mix with other creative professionals and make the most of their time in the city.
Many of these spaces offer discounts, making it even more cost-effective for long-term travelers.
3) Transportation
The city’s excellent transport links provide easy access to Bangkok’s many attractions – from grand temples and rooftop bars to green parks and bustling markets.
This makes it ideal for digital nomads looking to explore the city between work commitments.
Overall, Bangkok’s combination of affordable prices, excellent transport links, vibrant culture, and coworking spaces make it an ideal destination to work from.
Co-Living for Digital Nomads in Bangkok
If you enjoy living in coliving spaces so that you have a place to work remotely whilst also having the chance to easily meet other people, there are some very good coliving options in Bangkok, and these below are some of my favorites.
1) Lyf Sukhumvit 8 Bangkok
Located in a very central area in Sukhumvit in the city, Lyf Sukhumvit is set up to cater to remote workers hence facilities include:
- High-speed Internet building-wide
- Communal areas to mix and meet others
- Plenty of spaces to work from with your laptop
- Coliving style pricing (meaning affordable living)
- A fantastic location for getting around Bangkok
Location within three minute’s walk of the Nana BTS Skytrain station, there are also several shops and restaurants nearby.
In Lyf you have access to:
- communal lounge area (first floor)
- launderette area (on the second floor)
>> Book Lyf Sukhumvit Coliving here
2) Lub D Bangkok Siam
Even though this is a backpackers hostel per se, this location is also popular with remote workers traveling to Bangkok to stay for a while.
- You can rent a private room and then use the coworking space that they provide here.
- The coworking is open 24 hours a day
- Water and coffee are included
- Shared, private with shared bathroom, and private ensuite room available from USD$12 to 70
3. The Capsule (Union Space)
This is arguably more like a hostel but they do market themselves as a coliving space and you certainly can stay here as a digital nomad.
There are no cooking facilities but you can get away with eating out every night because of the affordability and quality of Thai food. There is also a cafe downstairs that you can use.
They do provide free WiFi and when we tried it it was more than fast enough.
The capsules are quite small but this is a really quite interesting experience and place to stay and it’s cheap!
This is one of the best capsule hotels we have stayed in on our travels both as digital nomads and for leisure travel.
Coworking in Bangkok
Many professionals and entrepreneurs are making the move to Bangkok due to its vibrant energy and low cost of living.
So where can you work from if you want to escape your accommodation and work from somewhere else and also have the chance to network more?
Here are some of our favorite coworking spaces in Bangkok, that we have tried.
1. The Hive Thonglor
This coworking space offers a truly unique experience, with its bright interiors and an atmosphere that encourages collaboration.
It also has plenty of amenities such as hot desks, private offices, event spaces, workshops, and meeting rooms.
They also have free and good coffee available in tap and this is in a great neighborhood.
One of my favorite coworking spaces in Bangkok, you can see their website here.
2. WeWork
This is a great coworking for meeting other remote workers and networking and they have more than one coworking space in Bangkok.
Each location has its own unique vibe but all have hot desks, private offices, and breakout areas.
This is a popular coworking space and many people’s favorite.
Learn more about WeWork Bangkok.
3. Hubba
Hubba is another very good coworking space and the one I sometimes use when I am in Bangkok.
It has four floors filled with private offices and coworking areas where you can mix and mingle with other entrepreneurs.
Learn more here.
4. JustCo Coworking (The Work Loft)
One of the coolest coworking spaces in Bangkok, with a great atmosphere and vibe.
You can get plenty of work done but if you also are looking to meet other people, then this is also a great option for networking such as at the workshops and events they organize.
It’s also situated on Sathorn Road which makes it ideal for coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, for after work or for lunch.
Learn more here.
5. LaunchPad Co
Yet another great option for coworking in Bangkok, Launchpad is located in the nice area of Sathorn and has its own coffee shop.
Plenty of space and a decent digital nomads community and vibe.
Learn more about LaunchPad Bangkok here.
Getting Around Bangkok
Bangkok is a vibrant and exciting city, but with the vast array of transportation options available, it can be daunting to navigate.
Fortunately, Bangkok has several efficient, safe, and affordable methods of public transport.
1. BTS Skytrain
Without a doubt, the easiest and most affordable way to get around, if you are staying for a while in Bangkok, is to use the BTS Skytrain.
The BTS operates two elevated train lines that cover large portions of the city, making it easy to get around quickly.
2. Tuk-Tuks
If you are in a hurry and want to get from A to B as quickly as possible, then jumping in a Tuk-Tuk and being driven directly to your location is a great option, if there is no BTS train station close by.
As a digital nomad, you will find the prices very affordable but if staying in Bangkok for a month or two, it all starts to add up and so using the Skytrain or buses can be a better long-term strategy unless you are making good money and can afford it, then just hire a tuk tuk.
Note: In peak hours though the traffic on the roads can hit gridlock so if your route is near Skytrain stops, the Skytrain wins!
3. Taxis and Buses
Other forms of transportation include buses and motorcycle taxis.
Buses are cheap but can be slow due to traffic congestion, while motorcycle taxis offer a faster option but at a higher cost.
When traveling by public transport in Bangkok, it is important to remember the following safety tips:
- Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when taking buses or motorcycle taxis.
- Be sure to have the exact fare amount ready before getting on the bus or train, as they do not give change.
- Check the schedule for the last train or bus, as some lines may stop running earlier than expected.
Consider downloading the Bangkok map and guide app onto your phone for offline use
With so many transportation options available, getting around this vibrant and exciting city can be relatively easy (for a big city).
Best Areas and Neighborhoods in Bangkok to Stay
There are many neighborhoods in Bangkok and each has its own unique atmosphere, pros, and cons.
1) Sukhumvit Soi 11
This iconic road is located in the heart of Bangkok, just off Sukhumvit Road, and is home to a range of boutique hotels, bars, restaurants, and cafes.
This popular spot often draws in local celebrities, so keep an eye out for some famous faces!
During the day, you can explore the street’s many independent stores and designer boutiques before stopping off at one of its popular rooftop bars in the evening.
2) Khao San Road
This infamous street has been a hub of activity since the 1970s, drawing backpackers from all over the world who come looking for cheap accommodation, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Today, Khao San Road is still the best place to go whether you are a digital nomad, remote worker, or backpacker.
Once a budget area in terms of price, its prices have increased in recent years due to its popularity with foreign visitors.
It is still though a great area and more than affordable.
If you want to be in the heart of Bangkok where there are lots of bars, restaurants, and places for foreign visitors then this is a great lively, and vibrant area.
3) Thonglor
This upmarket neighborhood is known for its buzzing nightlife, high-end restaurants, and luxury shopping destinations, making it popular both with foreign visitors and wealthy locals.
Expect to find plenty of excellent dining options including Thai street food, international cuisine, and medium prices restaurants.
At night, Thonglor transforms into a vibrant party scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues all around the area; making it one of the most popular nightlife spots in Bangkok.
Despite its vibrant nightlife, Thonglor remains a fairly safe and exciting place to explore and in which to stay.
4) Chinatown
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a vibrant area of the city where you can find bustling markets, charming streets filled with neon signs, and tasty street food stalls galore.
There are also numerous temples in the area as well as hidden bars, cafes, and restaurants that serve up some delicious dishes and where you can work remotely.
5) Asoke
Asoke is a modern and vibrant neighborhood also close to the Bangkok International Airport, making it convenient for travelers who are just passing through.
If you want to avoid an area such as Khao San Road and want somewhere quieter on the outskirts, you might want to consider Asoke.
6) Banglamphu
Banglamphu is the oldest neighborhood in Bangkok and has a unique atmosphere that’s perfect for travelers who want to explore the city’s culture and history.
In Banglamphu you can find many of the most popular tourist attractions including the Grand Palace, and Wat Arun temple.
As a digital nomad, this really is a pretty good option.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Bangkok?
Though Bangkok enjoys warm temperatures all year round, the ideal time to visit depends on your travel preferences.
If you’re looking for sunny days and minimal rainfall, the months from December to February are the best time to visit.
This is when temperatures tend to be relatively mild and humidity low.
These months also offer the most hours of daylight, so you can take full advantage of all Bangkok has to offer.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to visit when it’s cheaper money-wise, consider visiting during Thailand’s wet season, which runs from July to October.
The rain showers that you’ll likely experience during this time of the year will still leave plenty of time for exploration.
Plus, you’ll benefit from low-season prices on accommodation and tours in Bangkok, making it an affordable option for you if you are working remotely but still have a fairly strict budget.
Things I Recommend Seeing & Doing in Bangkok
1. Visit the Grand Palace
This majestic palace is considered the most significant landmark in Bangkok and was built in 1782.
The complex consists of several buildings, including the Temple of Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaew (the holiest temple in Thailand), the Royal Pantheon, and many more must-see sights.
2. Explore the Floating Markets
Take a boat and explore Bangkok’s must-see floating markets.
Here, vendors sell everything from food and souvenirs to clothing and electronics.
If you enjoy travel photography, this is a wonderful place to get some great photos that encapsulate the local culture, foods, and traditions.
4. Take a Tuk-Tuk Ride
Tuk-tuks are an iconic mode of transport in Bangkok, and they’re also great fun!
The chances are that you will end up experiencing this form of transport if you spend a few weeks or more in Bangkok as they make it easy (outside of rush hour) to get around.
You’ll see tuk-tuks everywhere so they are easy to use. Just jump into an empty tuk-tuk and tell the driver where you need to go.
5. Visit Chatuchak Weekend Market
This huge market is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, with over 7,500 stalls selling all kinds of goods from clothing to furniture.
If you love shopping and exploring markets and want to experience the local culture, this market is well worth visiting.
6. Get a Thai Cooking Class
There are a number of companies in Bangkok offering cookery classes and they are great fun to try!
In addition to learning how to cook different Thai foods, it’s also a great way to meet other visitors to the city, i.e., it’s quite social I found.
Two schools I used and highly recommend are:
7. Go on a River Cruise
Bangkok is situated along the Chao Phraya River, and taking a cruise along it is a must-do.
Get a unique perspective of the city’s skyline as you travel down this historic waterway.
8. Visit Lumphini Park
Take some time out and relax in Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s largest park.
Here, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll in the lush greenery or watch some of the outdoor performances that are often held here.
9. Visit Some of Bangkok’s Must-See Temples
No trip to Bangkok is complete without seeing some of its many must-see temples.
I suggest trying at least to visit:
- Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
- Wat Saket (the Golden Mount)
- and Wat Phra Kaew
10. Do a Massage Course/s & Get a Massage
Bangkok (and Chiang Mai further north) is a great place for doing massage courses, be it aromatherapy, Thai, Swedish, or sports massage.
Some massage schools we have done courses in and thus recommend are:
Useful Resources
Here are some more useful resources that we personally found very useful:
- Bangkok Digital Nomads Meetup
- Facebook Bangkok Nomads Group
- Bangkok Football (Soccer) meetup – they hold a weekly 7-a-side game that you can join
- Bangkok Running group – normally two runs a week and a friendly crowd
- Bangkok Speed Dating Group – a great way to meet others as a digital nomad, if you are single
- Bangkok cars and nightclub group
- Cultural exchange Meetup
- Hiking meetup group
- Urban Hiking Group
Bangkok Travel Resources
I have been traveling for many years and have come to use a lot of travel sites and resources for booking my trips. They represent the companies that I often use and have served me well and they are the first ones I use when booking new trips.
- Booking.com – they tend to provide very competitive prices and the reviews are easy to view, and they normally have something available wherever in the world I am going to. They also now provide airport transfers, local attractions, and flights.
- Safety Wing Travel Insurance – Safety Wing has become one of the leaders in travel insurance, especially for remote workers and digital nomads as they provide cover that includes for long-term stays.
- Get Your Guide – is the site on which I normally book tours (I love to visit the local sports stadia, aquarium, royal palace, and some cultural attractions). With get Your Guide they have excellent customer support and have a wide range of tours.
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