Life in Bangkok

We live where you vacation!

Welcome to Bangkok, where tradition and modern convenience share the same sidewalk.

Thailand’s capital is a city of exciting contrasts. Modern skyscrapers tower over ancient temples.

Traditional street food stalls stand beside award-winning restaurants. The city honors its history while embracing rapid growth in art, tech, and business. Bangkok remains a favorite among travelers – but it’s much more than a holiday destination.

Over 1,500 expat Agodans have made the move to build their lives and careers here. Could you be next?

Why I love living in Bangkok

Joy Herholz

Moved from Copenhagen, Denmark

All the amazing food, and the option to have it delivered to your doorstep at any time of day! Also, as a parent – the opportunity to get help in the house and with child care which allows for more flexibility in both work and social life. Last but not least; proximity to some great travel destinations.

Hien Bui

Moved from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Thailand is an ideal place to enjoy different lifestyles. Bangkok is a developed and active city with everything you need for a fast-paced life. Up north, cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provide a calm and green atmosphere. Further south, you’ll find sunny beaches in Phuket, Koh Phangan, and many more.

Scott Coates

Moved from Calgary, Canada

Bangkok is an incredibly dynamic city. From modern skyscrapers sitting next to traditional dwellings, to streetside bowls of noodles and world-class restaurants, there’s always an interesting alley to check out, historical site to investigate, and plate of food to enjoy. And then there’s the Thai people, whose smiles are infectious and welcoming.

Shachi Madhogaria

Moved from London, England

Having lived in India and London, I think that Bangkok combines the best of both worlds – a good mix of the east and west. I’ve found here a diverse international culture, very warm people, and an easy lifestyle. Being a vegetarian, I’m surprised by the variety of food options I’ve indulged in. Outside of the bustling city life of Bangkok, Thailand has some of the most beautiful holiday spots – perfect for avid travelers like me. I feel there’s never been a dull moment in Bangkok – at or outside of work!

Nathan Kliewer

Moved from Pittsburgh, USA

Bangkok is a vibrant city filled with wonderful people, food, and culture. I always say if it exists anywhere in the world it exists in Bangkok. It is a unique place that radiates energy. Not to mention being located here gives you opportunities to experience amazing places outside of Bangkok both within in Thailand and throughout Asia.

Your 9-6: Working at Agoda in Bangkok

Welcome to Agoda’s biggest office: a colorful, modern space in the heart of Bangkok. Step inside, and you’ll find a culture where ideas move fast, and data drives every decision. Step outside, and you’re just minutes from public transport, a lively food scene, and after-work fun.

Life at Agoda, at a glance:

Hybrid Freedom

Work 2 days onsite per week, and roam globally for up to 30 days/year. Code from Chiang Mai, strategize from Sydney, or join standups from Lisbon. The world is yours to explore.

Benefits That Matter

Comprehensive care for you and your family. We support your health, financial wellbeing, relocation, personal development, and more.

Award-Winning Culture

We’ve been ranked among Thailand’s top employers and awarded for our innovation, diversity, and culture.

Your 6-9: Living Local in Bangkok

When the workday ends, the city is yours to explore. This isn’t about sightseeing, but rather, finding a version of Bangkok that feels like yours. Maybe it’s a quiet cafe for productive work afternoons, a green space where your kids can run free while you recharge, or a go-to dinner spot you’ll proudly take visiting friends to. Everyone’s Bangkok looks a little different, so here are a few recommendations to help you find yours.

Explore local life

A city made for food lovers

If eating well is a priority, Bangkok will never let you down. Hungry for Chinese hotpot, tacos al pastor, or your grandma’s laksa recipe? The city’s food scene spans every cuisine and price point, from Michelin-starred restaurants to local street food favorites, so no craving will go unmet, including your favorite dishes from home.

24-hour convenience

Bangkok offers total convenience with affordable services designed for fast-paced city life. From late-night food deliveries to excellent housekeeping and childcare services, the city puts everything you need at your fingertips.

Find your perfect cafe

Bangkok takes cafe culture very seriously. Whether you’re searching for a cozy reading corner, a perfectly brewed cup of single-origin coffee, or a place to catch up with friends, the city’s ever-growing mix of trendy and traditional cafes makes it easy to get your caffeine fix.

Fitness that fits your lifestyle

Bangkok makes it easy to stay active and have fun. Scale indoor bouldering walls, practice Muay Thai, or flow through rooftop yoga as the skyline lights up. If you’re looking for friendly competition or a new skill to hone, you’ll find it here. Join a football league, rally on a badminton court, cruise along cycling tracks, or tee off at one of the city’s scenic golf courses. And when it’s time to recover, nothing beats a traditional Thai massage to help you recharge.

Bangkok after dark

Bangkok’s nightlife has something for everyone – whether it’s a quiet drink or a night of exploring. Toast to sunset views from a rooftop bar, catch jazz in a cozy lounge, or find your favorite neighborhood spot where the bartender knows your name. Happy hour is an art form here, with several spots named in Asia and the World’s 50 Best Bars lists.

Art and culture around every corner

Creativity is the lifeblood of the city, and you’ll never run out of things to do. Visit hidden rooftop cinemas, browse lively weekend markets or immerse yourself in heritage and contemporary art museums. Music lovers will delight in a year-round line-up of festivals, DJ sets, and concerts featuring both local talent and global artists.

Family-friendly fun

Bangkok is a fantastic city for families, offering endless fun to keep both kids and parents happy. Take your little ones to burn off energy at indoor playgrounds or dive into extracurriculars like art classes and sports. On the weekends, your adventures could take you to the city’s many parks, aquariums, museums, and swimming pools, just to name a few.

Your Getaways: Traveling Beyond Bangkok

Local Adventures

Hop on a quick flight or take a scenic drive to explore Thailand’s unique charms.

Chiang Mai

Known for its relaxed vibe, misty mountains, and excellent coffee.

Phuket

White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and island-hopping adventures await.

Hua Hin

A charming coastal town with night markets, golf courses, and family-friendly resorts.

Ayutthaya

Thailand’s former capital boasts UNESCO World Heritage temple ruins and scenic riverside cycling paths.

Asia at Your Doorstep

Most travelers can only dream about these destinations, but they could become your weekend plans.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Sip coffee in hidden cafes, stroll tree-lined boulevards, and uncover stories at history museums.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Visit the iconic Angkor Wat and immerse yourself in Cambodian culture.

Seoul, South Korea

Wander hanok courtyards, hike scenic hills, and shop for the latest trends.

Singapore

A clean, green city with futuristic gardens and Michelin-starred hawker stalls.

Bali, Indonesia

Surf world-class breaks, discover underwater wonders, and hike volcanic peaks at sunrise.

Tokyo, Japan

Expect charming neighborhoods, peaceful temples, and unforgettable meals.

Palawan, Philippines

Kayak through limestone cliffs and snorkel vibrant coral reefs.

Mumbai, India

Home to the Bollywood film industry, stunning architecture, and sprawling markets.

Getting settled in Bangkok

Visa Process

Some companies, including Agoda, can sponsor your work visa for Thailand. After you accept a job offer from Agoda, our Onboarding team will provide comprehensive visa support for you and your dependents.

Visa processing typically takes 6-8 weeks, though this can vary depending on factors like your nationality and current location.

Read stories from Agodans who relocated to Bangkok!

From Poland and Ireland to Bangkok: This is Alina’s Life at Agoda

From India to Sri Lanka to Bangkok: Apoorv’s Life at Agoda

From Germany and Taiwan to Bangkok: This is Andrea’s Life at Agoda

From Singapore to Bangkok: This Is Alvin’s Life at Agoda

From Australia to Bangkok: This is Wayne’s Life at Agoda

From Belgium to Bangkok: Gregory’s Life at Agoda

Housing information

Family life:

Affordability:

West Bangkok

(Wat Mangkon/Chinatown, Sanam Laung, Wongwian Yai, Talat Phlu, Bangwa, Krung Thonburi, Taling Chan, Pinklao)

Also called Bangkok's Thonburi, the area lies west of the Chao Phraya river up north to Nonthaburi province and down south to Phra Phradaeng, further away from big shopping malls and tourist hotspots. Floating markets, leafy alleyways, and a few lesser known historic temples roam this side of the city. Although a few BTS stations can lead to the area, the main methods of getting around are often by taxi or personal vehicle.

"It's quiet but not far from the city center."

Krittaluck Somasa

"It is near fresh markets, department stores, BTS Bangwa, hospitals, and community malls."

Nantachat Rungcharoendee

View on map

Location:

Nightlife:

Family life:

Affordability:

Type of Accommodation

Bangkok has a variety of housing options that cater for all income levels. Prices can range from under THB 10,000 to over THB 50,000, depending on a variety of factors, such as size, location, accessibility to public transportation and facilities. Most condominium or apartment units will come furnished (with air-conditioners, sofas, bed matress, cupboards etc),

Condominium

THB 7,000 +

One of the most common housing options in Bangkok. Condos are usually fully or partially furnished studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom units in high-rise buildings. Most developments offer shared facilities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, and security.

Apartment

THB 10,000 +

Similar to condominiums, apartments are typically furnished studio or one- to two-bedroom units. The main difference is ownership: apartment buildings are usually owned and managed by a single landlord. Some buildings include shared facilities like a gym or pool, though amenities may vary.

House/Townhouse

THB 20,000 +

Houses in Bangkok are often two-story homes located in suburban neighborhoods, offering more space and privacy. In central areas, townhouses—multi-level homes with shared walls—are more common due to limited space. These options are typically larger and are often chosen by families.

Serviced Apartment

THB 30,000 +

A fully furnished apartment with hotel-style services such as housekeeping, reception, and sometimes room service. Serviced apartments are popular with expats and those staying in Bangkok short- to medium-term, especially in central business districts. They offer convenience and amenities but come at a higher cost.

Cost of Living Comparison

Transport:

Public transport

Taxi (Start price)

(1USD ~ 35THB)

$1.13

$1.23

Bangkok

$4.33

$3.47

London

$3.5

San Francisco

$2.74

$1.33

Singapore

$4.6

$3.42

Berlin

Housing:

Housing rent price

1 bedroom in city center

(1USD ~ 35THB)

$500

$1000

$1500

$2000

$2500

$3000

$3500

$4000

$680.69

Bangkok

$2,240.75

London

$3,503.94

San Francisco

$2,134.02

Singapore

$1,071.81

Berlin

Utilities:

Water & Electricity for 85sqm apartment

Internet (60mbps)

(1USD ~ 35THB)

$50

$100

$150

$200

$250

$300

$100.53

$22.19

Bangkok

$214.02

$39.54

London

$148.22

$70.3

San Francisco

$113.85

$33.41

Singapore

$250.93

$37.57

Berlin

Food:

Mid-range meal for 2 people

Inexpensive meal for 1 person

(1USD ~ 35THB)

$10

$20

$30

$40

$50

$60

$70

$80

$90

$30.65

$2.1

Bangkok

$74.32

$18.57

London

$79.95

$17.99

San Francisco

$51.87

$11.11

Singapore

$53.13

$10.04

Berlin

Family and Schooling

Deciding to move to a new country can be difficult, especially if you have a partner or children to consider. Here are some resources about relocating to Bangkok with your family: from information and discounts on international schools to workshops for partners of Agoda employees helping them to find jobs.

Agoda+1

Transitioning successfully to Bangkok city life not only is important for Agodan’s but also their spouses and partners. Agoda+1 is a social and supportive group hosted by Agoda partners for Agoda partners and dependents on Facebook.

Regular social events are organized to connect members, useful information on Bangkok is shared and the group partners with the Agoda Recruitment Team to support spouses/partners in their career search.

Schooling

For those relocating with family and children, Bangkok has a multitude of international schools with qualified British & American curriculums to explore along with wide-ranged tuition fees.

Read stories from Agodans who relocated to Bangkok!

From Poland and Ireland to Bangkok: This is Alina’s Life at Agoda

From India to Sri Lanka to Bangkok: Apoorv’s Life at Agoda

From Germany and Taiwan to Bangkok: This is Andrea’s Life at Agoda

From Singapore to Bangkok: This Is Alvin’s Life at Agoda

From Australia to Bangkok: This is Wayne’s Life at Agoda

From Belgium to Bangkok: Gregory’s Life at Agoda

Overview

There are a wide variety and ranges of international schools available for children of all ages and levels. Whichever curriculum you prefer, Bangkok has got them! Agoda employees even receive great discounts at several international schools.
Among Bangkok’s International School, there are several educational programmes available including The American Advance Placement (AP), British A Level and International Baccalaureate (IB).

Semesters

Semester for International school in Bangkok is different from Thai school years. The semester are divided into three period which last about 3 months with short half term break in each semester. Term 1 usually start from August – December, Term 2 start from January – April and Term 3 starts from April – June.

School Hours

Early years usually starts from 9.00am until 11.00am (Half day) and until 3.00pm (Full day) Years 1 – 13 starts from around 8.00am – 3.00pm

Tuition and other fees

Please note that many schools charge enrollment, assessment, application, registration and/or other fees that are not included in annual tuition. These fees can run over THB 300,000 in some cases. Also, some schools offer optional meal plans, transportation arrangements and extra-curricular activities at an additional cost. Some schools also charge campus development or capital fund fees that can be as high as THB 800,000. Parents are required to make this payment before enrollment; the funds are returned, without interest, when the child withdraws or graduates from the school.

Top Pre-School – Kindergarten

THB 100,000 – 400,000

St. Andrews International School Bangkok
(Sukhumvit Campus)

St. Andrews provie a high quality professional, well-resourced learning environment where each child’s talents and ability are recognized and nurtured. The school is fully accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the officer for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA). Their teachers are professional and caring, selected for their awareness of the needs of a broad range of children who many come from different social, cultural, religious and educational backgrounds. Graduates have been accepted by prestigious universities in the UK, USA, Europe and Asia.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 393 3883 | E: [email protected]

Bromsgrove International School Thailand

Bromsgrove International School Thailand (BIST) is affiliated to Bromsgrove School, UK, one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious independent boarding and day schools. Established in Minburi, Bangkok sixteen years ago and since then has developed into Southeast Asia’s premier British boarding and day school. BIST has established a reputation for being a truly outstanding international school, in terms of their campus facilities, the ongoing academic success of their students and the high quality of mainly British teachers.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel (Admission team) Early years: +66 2 540 7122-3, Primary/Secondary: +66 2 989 4873 | E: [email protected]

St. Stephen’s International School

St. Stephen’s International School aims to provide a truly international education whilst maintaining the values and customs that are so important to the Thai community. East certainly does meet West at St. Stephen’s in the best possible way. Their campus communities are happy and caring. Whether in urban Bangkok or in the beautiful environment of Khao Yai, staff, students and parents all contribute to the special family atmosphere, which is apparent to even the casual visitor.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 81 904 0994 / +66 84 676 0616 | E: [email protected]

Ekamai International School (EIS)

Ekamai International School (EIS) is a private, non-profit, co-educational Christian school (from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12). It was founded and is operated by the Thailand Adventist Mission (TAM) of Seventh-day Adventist Church. EIS mainly serves the Thai community; however, its student body includes over 30 nationalities.

Curriculum: American | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 391 3593 ext. 202 / 204 | E: [email protected]

THB 400,000 and above

KIS International School

International Baccalaureate (IB) World School licensed with the Ministry of Education, fully accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and Thailand’s Office of National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA), and as an IB World School, authorised to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP) for students 3-18 years of age.

Curriculum: IB | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 274 3444 | E: [email protected]

International School Bangkok (ISB)

International School Bangkok (ISB), widely recognized as one of the world’s leading international schools, was the first to be established in Thailand. Since 1951, ISB has proudly provided a high-quality international education to students from over a hundred nationalities and is the pioneer International Baccalaureate school in Thailand. ISB is a learning-focused, US-accredited, IB authorized, independent Pre-K to Grade 12 school offering a challenging international curriculum to a multicultural and multilingual student body of over 1,600 students. Learning at ISB is informed by leading educational research and global best practice, incorporated into North American and International Baccalaureate Diploma frameworks. ISB has long valued its globally minded, inclusive and vibrant community and its strong culture of care. ISB is committed to encouraging students to follow their passions in academics, the arts, athletics, and many other areas both in and out of school. ISB maintains a constant focus on quality with respect to learning, faculty, leadership, professional development, and facilities.

Curriculum: American & British & AP & IB | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 963 5800 | E: [email protected]

Denla British School

Denla British School (DBS) provides an outstanding international style, British independent day school education, embracing the principles: Enhanced British Curriculum, Academic Excellence for All, Entrepreneurship and Creative Thinking, Community and Global Perspectives.

DBS buildings and facilities are on par with international standards. The DBS motto, “Semper ad Maiora (Always to Greater Things),” reflects the DBS commitment to continuous improvement and our vision is to “Nurture Global Leaders” as to be acknowledged as a leading provider of exceptional all-round education in a positive, compassionate community.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: (1) Bell +66 84 050 5905 | E: [email protected]

Harrow International School Bangkok

Harrow Bangkok provides a world-class British education for students aged 18 months to 18 years, with an emphasis on high-quality weekly or full-time boarding. The innovative ‘Leadership in Action’ extracurricular programme allows students to develop their leadership attributes through a broad variety of activities.

The curriculum is based on the British national curriculum, which leads students to admission into top universities around the world. Year on year, Harrow Bangkok students celebrate outstanding A Level and IGCSE results. The school attracts an international mix of students who benefit from state-of-the-art facilities on its spacious garden campus.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 503 7222 | E: [email protected]

Top Elementary – High School

THB 150,000 – 400,000

Ekamai International School (EIS)

Curriculum: American | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 391 3593 ext. 202 / 204 | E: [email protected]

Modern International School Bangkok

Modern International School Bangkok; established in 1997, is a private co-educational School providing International Education from Early Years to Year 13 within the framework of the National British Curriculum. They segment their students into Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery-Year 1), Primary (Year 2- Year 6) Secondary (Year 7-Year 11) and Advanced Level (Year 12-Year 13). MISB is an inclusive school that offers an excellent educational experience and aims to provides a broad and balanced education with strong academic focus in a positive and pleasant environment which will enable the students to learn and grow academically, socially, creatively and emotionally.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 258 8222 | E: [email protected]

Wells International School (WIS) – Onnut Campus

A branch of EverClever Education Group, Ltd., Wells offers an American and IB university-preparatory curriculum to children from kindergarten to high school. Comprising three campuses in central Bangkok, it has expanded rapidly since its founding in 1999 and now serves over 750 students who represent over two dozen nationalities.

Wells is licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education, has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since 2009, and is a member of the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) and East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS).

Curriculum: American & AP & IB | Contact Information: Tel: +66 97 920 8511 / +66 2 730 3366 | E: [email protected]

THB 400,000 – 600,000

St. Andrews International School Bangkok

(Sukhumvit Campus)

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 393 3883 | E: [email protected]

Anglo Singapore International School

At Anglo Singapore International School, teachers and staff facilitate holistic learning for their students. This nurturing guidance allows students to choose routes toward success, where they lead socially responsible and meaningful lives. With over 1,500 students from 20 different nationalities, diversity is celebrated not only within their school community but also with their own unique blend of the Singaporean and Cambridge International Curricula. True to the school motto, “Learn to Think, Think to Learn”, Anglo continues to build upon its tradition of academic excellence, as they prepare students to make their mark in our global society.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 662 3105/6 | E: [email protected]

Bangkok Prep

The school programme of study is based on the National Curriculum of England, offering a quality education to students from Nursery to Year 13. They offer rigorous I/GCSE programmes to Year 10 and Year 11 students as a precursor to the Cambridge-approved A levels available to study in Year 12 and Year 13. The school also introduced Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which is one element of the AQA Baccalaureate, thus preparing students towards University education worldwide. Bangkok Prep gained triple accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS), New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessments (ONESQA) in 2011.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 700 5858 | E: [email protected]

THB 600,000 and above

International School Bangkok (ISB)

Curriculum: American & British & AP & IB | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 963 5800 | E: [email protected]

Shrewbury International School

Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside is Thailand’s leading international day school, offering an inspirational English language education to over 1,700 carefully selected students. Occupying a stunning riverside setting in the heart of Bangkok, the school enjoys a reputation for musical, artistic and sporting excellence that complements an unparalleled academic record, underlined by outstanding examination results and global university placements including Oxford, Cambridge and Ivy League. The school is committed to continuous improvement and renewal, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of contemporary international education.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Contact admissions (International families) | Tel: +66 2 675 3606 ext. 1110 or 1404 | E: [email protected]

Harrow International School Bangkok

Year on year, Harrow Bangkok students celebrate outstanding A Level and IGCSE results. The school attracts an international mix of students who benefit from state-of-the-art facilities on its spacious garden campus.

Curriculum: British | Contact Information: Tel: +66 2 503 7222 | E: [email protected]