From Hungary to Bangkok: This is Kata’s Life at Agoda
- Kata Kőrösi
- Business Owner, Supply Operations
- Living in Bangkok since 2022
I started my career working in a hotel’s reservation department when I first heard about Agoda. Wanting to explore the other side of the tourism industry, I applied for a Market Coordinator position in Budapest. That was 11 years ago, and it marked the beginning of an incredible journey with Agoda, which continues in Bangkok. I was already offered the chance to relocate to Thailand in 2019, but at the time we did not feel ready. The opportunity came again in 2022 and this time, we decided to visit Bangkok for a month and that’s when we realized it was the right place for us.
A Day in the Life of a Business Owner in the Supply Team at Agoda
At Agoda, there’s never a dull moment. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to solve problems. I work with a diverse group of people from different nationalities and backgrounds, and together we strive to make things better. The collaborative atmosphere is inspiring—everyone is encouraged to speak up, challenge ideas, and lift each other up.
I am leading the Supply Operation team, or the “go-to team” when teams need support or have ideas that need to be tested.
The biggest project I worked on was the shape of the current operations structure. After merging Partner Service and Partner Development Operations in 2023, I had to make sure the team has a safe place. A place where they can improve their skills and we are not losing focus from the vision and the direction we want to go.
Why Agoda is an Exciting Workplace
Agoda’s work environment is dynamic and inclusive. The diversity of nationalities and perspectives creates a unique atmosphere where collaboration thrives. People here are not afraid to challenge each other, and the support and encouragement from colleagues make this workplace truly special.
Also, Agoda has a fantastic Remote Work program, which allows us to work from anywhere outside of Thailand for 30 calendar days per year! It’s a great benefit that I used to visit my family and friends back home.
Growing at Agoda: Opportunities to Learn and Lead
Agoda offers countless opportunities for growth. Employees can explore different areas and departments, participate in projects, and learn from senior colleagues. Managers play a key role in helping employees identify their strengths and develop their skills.
What I value most is Agoda’s “Test and Measure” attitude. Failure is not seen as negative but as a chance to learn and improve. This mindset has helped me step out of my comfort zone and grow both personally and professionally.
I’ve also taken part in Agoda’s Grow Aspire, a development program for managers which helped me to be a better people manager and learn how to support different types of people, as well as a mentorship program in Partner Development, which helped improve my hiring skills.
Relocating to Bangkok: A Smooth Transition
The most rewarding part of my journey was the recognition from senior management when I was offered the chance to lead a team in Bangkok. It’s an experience I’ll always cherish.
I was based in Budapest when I got the opportunity from senior management to lead a team in Bangkok. As the team grew, I had the chance to relocate to be closer to them, while my partner kept his role and is working remotely. From end-to-end, Agoda’s onboarding and visa teams were incredibly helpful, making the process smooth for both me and my partner. The team handled everything from paperwork to giving us time to find a place to live by providing us with temporary accommodation in the city for a month.
For anyone considering relocating to Bangkok for Agoda, my advice is simple: don’t hesitate. It’s been a fantastic experience both professionally and personally.
Living in Bangkok: A City That Has It All
Bangkok’s international culture and dynamic vibe make it an exciting place to live. There is always something to do. Whether it’s discovering a hidden coffee shop or enjoying a street food festival in Chinatown, the city offers something for everyone. One of my favorite go-to places is called “I Found You cafe”, and it has the best brownie in town. I definitely recommend it!
I love how Bangkok never sleeps—good food and massages are always available at reasonable prices, shops and malls close late, and convenience stores like 7-11 are open 24/7. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and exploring Asia. So far, I’ve visited Singapore, Malaysia, Hong-Kong and Cambodia, and still have more on my bucket list! Visiting islands and relaxing on the beach are some of my favorite activities as well.
Building Community in Bangkok: Support and Friendship
I understand moving to a new city seems daunting, but Agoda makes it easy. I’ve built meaningful connections with colleagues and friends who went through similar experiences of relocation. We supported each other from day one and discovered the city together. There are various social groups at Agoda that help you meet new people and connect with peers who have similar interests. For examples there are clubs like badminton, football, board games, or also employee resources groups like Women at Agoda.
If you’re nervous about starting fresh, there’s no need to worry. Agoda provides a strong support system for every aspect of life, whether you’re looking for a nanny or a partner to explore the area with.
Cost of Living in Bangkok: Affordable and Balanced
The cost of living in Bangkok is generally better than in my home country. Local food and utilities are cheaper, though rent has become more expensive. Overall, I find the cost of living here to be manageable and worth it for the lifestyle Bangkok offers.
In terms of cost, dining at a regular restaurant in Budapest typically costs between 4,000-5,000 HUF (400-500 THB), whereas in Bangkok, a similar meal would be around 150-200 THB. When it comes to accommodation, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest’s city center costs approximately 250,000 HUF (25,000 THB) per month. In contrast, renting a similar apartment in Bangkok would be around 35,000 THB, but with facilities such as a pool, a gym and other facilities.
Final Thoughts: Why Agoda is the Place to Be
If you have the chance to join Agoda in Bangkok, don’t miss it. For me, it’s been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live in Asia and work in such an amazing environment.
