What Are the French Schools in Thailand?

Complete list of French schools in Thailand: Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai. Fees, curriculum, and admission for expat families.

Finding among the French schools in Thailand, the school that suits you, here is a family subject to discuss. Thailand is attracting more and more Europeans, particularly French people. Adapting to the culture of the country requires time and motivation. This is all the more true for children who are forced to change their habits to follow their parents in this new adventure. Fortunately, several French schools are established in Thailand to allow children to continue the educational program of their country of origin. Here is a non-exhaustive selection of French schools established in Thailand.

French schools in Thailand:

The French International High School

Located in Bangkok, the Lycée French International opened its doors in 2003. The establishment welcomes children from 3 to 18 years old, that is to say, students from the junior section to Terminal 12. This high school follows the French program exactly and is organized under the supervision of the French Ministry of National Education and equivalent Thai authorities.

The Lycée French International de Bangkok is directly attached to the Montpellier Academy and the University of Cambridge and thus offers many advantages to its students. Its students can, among other things, apply to obtain certifications issued by these major educational structures.

From kindergarten, children enrolled at the Lycée French International de Bangkok become familiar with English and Thai and the other 2 modern languages ​​that are on the program: German, Spanish and Chinese.

In French schools in Thailand, this establishment belongs to the official network of French educational establishments and is part of the large family of the International Schools Association of Thailand or ISAT.

All detailed information regarding Lycée French International de Bangkok is available on its official website: https://www.lfib.ac.th/.

The French speaking school of Pattaya

the French-speaking school located in Pattaya welcomes students from kindergarten to 12th grade. The programs offered there are mentioned in the Official Bulletin of the French National Education Service. Prior membership to the National Center for Distance Education or CNED is essential to be able to register at the French-speaking school of Pattaya. To be admitted, a child must master English, French, Thai or Russian. Entrance tests are corrected and validated in France. All results of annual passing exams and all diplomas (Baccalaureate and Brevet des colleges) are delivered in France before being given to students in Thailand.

Students enrolled in the French-speaking school are supervised by certified and experienced teachers. The establishment stands out from other schools by the importance it places on organization and above all on discipline.

The tuition fees to be expected are:

-Annual fee to be paid upon registration with insurance and supplies: 6,000 baht

-Catering fees per period (there are 5 periods in a school year): from 2,500 baht

-Annual rates by level of study: in kindergarten they amount to 110,000 bahts, 130,000 bahts in elementary class, 140,000 bahts in middle school, and 160,000 bahts in high school.

– if necessary: ​​school bus fees per period: from 4,000 baht.

Tuition fees can be paid in 5 installments for each period. However, if they are paid in one go, the school grants a discount of 10,000 baht for the school year.

A visit to the school’s website http://www.ecolepattaya.com/ can provide you with more information.

The French International School Koh Samui

The Ecole Frenche Internationale Koh Samui is a French-speaking academic school located in the town of Lamai. It was created by a Franco-Thai couple in September 2001. This establishment takes care of children aged 3 to 18 of all nationalities, from the junior section to the Terminale. The school is one of the establishments approved by the French Ministry of National Education and is part of the network of the Agency for French Education Abroad or AEFE. It offers schooling following the French program, at all levels.

Students who study there can return to normal French schooling if they return to France. They can also continue their studies abroad after receiving their French national Baccalaureate diploma in this school. The Frenche Internationale Koh Samui school provides English courses validated by the British Council. The Thai language, Spanish, German and Chinese are also taught there.

In almost all French schools in Thailand, classes are held Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Recess is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the morning and from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the afternoon. Students have a 1-hour lunch break every day between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. As in all French schools around the world, Wednesday classes end at noon. The establishment provides special support, for an hour in the evening, to children who are in difficulty and who need a refresher course.

In addition, the school has numerous infrastructures and equipment such as a library, connected computers, classrooms, a canteen and a large playground to guarantee the effectiveness of teaching and the well-being of students. Tuition fees vary between 120,000 Baht and 135,000 baht per year, depending on the level of study of each student. The annual administrative fees amount to 10,000 baht for children enrolled in kindergarten and 12,000 baht for students enrolled in elementary, middle and high school.

The site http://www.ecolesamui.com/ is permanently accessible for parents who wish to find out more about the Frenche Internationale Koh Samui school.

Les P’tits Bouts

In the category of French schools in Thailand, I thought of our little darlings. The P’tits Bouts nursery is located in the Sathorn district, in Thailand. The structure welcomes very young children from 16 months to 3 years old. To guarantee the safety of children, the number of places is limited to 16. The P’tits Bouts crèche changes themes and decor every month so that children can flourish and discover new environments. On the establishment’s program: various workshops such as painting, singing, drawing, dancing, etc.

French represents the official language used within the establishment. However, those enrolled already benefit from English and Thai language learning sessions. Find more information about the P’tits Bouts crèche on the website: http://ptibouts.com/pti_mots.html.

To read: How to obtain your resident card in Thailand?

How to Get Your Thai Resident Card?

Step-by-step guide to obtaining a Thai resident card: eligibility, documents, process, and benefits for long-term expats.

Thailand is the new El Dorado of Asia. Many Europeans settle there despite the strict and complicated formalities linked to entry and settlement in the country. The residence permit is an essential administrative document for foreigners who wish to officially take up residence in Thailand. Having a residence permit can change the tax status of the holder both in his country of origin and in Thailand.

Usefulness of the residence permit in Thailand

The residence permit certifies the legal and official presence of a foreign person on Thai territory in the eyes of the Thai authorities. This document is also essential in the daily life of the foreigner. The certificate is particularly necessary to obtain an international or Thai car or motorcycle driving license, to open a bank account, to be able to buy a vehicle and for other useful procedures in everyday life.

Who issues the residence permit?

Requests for obtaining a residence permit are processed at the offices of the Immigration Commission and the Embassy, ​​depending on the case.

Case of a foreign worker

A foreign worker who has a type B visa and a Work Permit must submit his residence permit application to the Embassy.

Other visas

All persons with an entry visa to Thailand can apply at an Immigration Commission office to receive a residence permit. There are just under 70 offices spread across the different Thai provinces. The applicant must submit their request to the Immigration Department office of the city where they wish to settle.

Procedures for obtaining a residence permit

The administrative procedures for obtaining a residence permit in Thailand are quite basic.

The conditions

The applicant must have stayed more than 3 years in Thailand, be aged 14 and over and speak and understand the Thai language. Also taken into account: active income, family situation, qualifications and professional training. If the applicant is a foreign investor, he must absolutely have at least 10 million baht to invest in Thailand in projects of national or collective interest. The investor must provide a certificate issued by the commercial bank of Thailand which certifies that he has the defined amount.

Documents to provide

The residence permit application file must be complete and include:

  • the applicant’s original passport
  • the copy of the passport page containing the identity photo and identity information, those with the Thailand entry visas, the immigration card,
  • 2 identity photos,
  • certificate attesting to the address of residence in Thailand. (find accommodation)
  • fees relating to the residence permit application process, the amount of which varies from one province to another,
  • the “Application Form Residence Certificate In Thailand” application form delivered on site to complete (in Thai and English)
  • For security reasons, the service may request a certified criminal record and take the applicant’s fingerprints.
  • French people who have stayed in Thailand for at least 6 months,
  • French people who no longer have a home (family and minor children) in France
  • French people who no longer carry out any paid activity in France and who no longer have an economic interest in France.

Upon receipt of the documents and the application, the Immigration Commission agent provides a ticket with the reference of the application to the applicant.

The document is issued by the Commission or the Embassy within a maximum period of 10 days following the date of submission of the application.

After obtaining their residence permit, the foreigner who settles in Thailand must report to the Immigration Commission to provide proof of their legal installation in the country and present their monthly income or investments, every month for 3 months.

The tax consequences of obtaining a residence permit in Thailand

Once the residence permit has been obtained, the foreigner is officially and legally recognized as a “resident” in the eyes of Thai law. Following a tax convention between the French and Thai authorities, French people established in Thailand who receive income in France are always taxable in France. However, French people considered to be tax “non-residents” in France are subject to reduced tax rates, varying according to the amount of income received.

Income tax return

A French retiree who changes his tax domicile to Thailand must submit his income tax return to his former tax center which will be responsible for submitting his tax file and his declaration to the Non-Resident Tax Center (CINR). This structure will determine the tax rate based on the amount of income.

A French person who leaves France to settle in Thailand and whose departure is planned before the month of May must declare his income must declare his income from the previous year in Thailand in May and also submit a declaration to the French tax center, making sure to clearly note his new address of residence. If departure is planned after May, the income declaration must be submitted to the French tax center. The person concerned must inform their tax center of their change of tax domicile by specifying their new address in Thailand so that their file is transferred to the structure which takes care of non-residents.

The year following final departure to Thailand, the person concerned must make a 2042 declaration with the income they received from January 1 to the date of their departure and a 2042 NR declaration for the income they received from the date of their departure to December 31. These documents must be sent to the CINR.

Taxation terms for “residents” in Thailand

The French government and the Thai government have concluded an agreement stipulating the impossibility of double taxation.

The convention stipulates that “residents” in Thailand are taxable on their income received in Thailand and their income from foreign countries, even if the amount of income received in Thailand is greater than the amount of foreign currency brought back to Thailand. Taxable income in Thailand is income in cash and in kind (in the form of benefits) received from remuneration for work performed or an investment.

Income from inheritance or non-commercial sale of property, awards received in the course of scientific research and action in the field of education and interest incurred from a savings account in a Thai commercial bank whose total amount does not exceed the sum of 20,000 baht per year are not recorded in the income tax return.

Income received by a French resident in Thailand on property established in France is taxable in France. Capital gains on securities are fully taxable in Thailand. With regard to dividends and interest, a maximum withholding tax of 25% is provided. The taxpayer must declare this income in Thailand as soon as he receives it. This will allow him to subtract the value withheld at source from his taxes paid in Thailand in the form of a tax credit.

How to Get Your Thai Driving License?

Complete guide to getting a Thai driving license: required documents, process at the DLT office, and tips.

The Thai driving license is an essential document for everyday life. Obtaining a driving license is compulsory when you stay more than 3 months in Thailand. It is important to note that traffic conditions in Thailand are completely different from those applied on French roads. Also, the foreigner must try to get used to it on his own.

The route for the Thai driving license by equivalence

Obtaining a Thai driving license requires some fairly simple administrative procedures.

Medical visit

To begin, the candidate must go to a clinic, hospital or private medical office to have a medical examination. The driving license consultation costs nearly 200 baht and generally lasts around fifteen minutes if you do not have any proven imbalance that would actually prevent you from driving. The health professional issues a medical certificate at the end of the consultation. The validity of the medical certificate will be 1 month, because after this period, you will have to do it again.

Obtaining the “yellow tabien baan”

The candidate for the conversion of the driving license must present an administrative document which certifies that he lives in Thailand. This may be a letter of residence or a yellow Tabien Baan. Foreign workers can instead provide their Work Permit.

The yellow tabien baan is a certificate of residence mentioning the exact address of the person concerned. The administrative paper is issued by the town hall of the city where the person concerned is established. The list of necessary files varies depending on the capital. In general, the authorities require at least the following documents:

  • Copies of passport pages + presentation of the original
  • Copies of international driving license (recommended)
  • Copy of residence permit + presentation of the original
  • Lease contract or title deed with the exact home address

The foreigner must go to the town hall office with 2 Thai people with their national identity card. These two people will act as witnesses to certify that the person concerned actually lives at the address provided.

The time to obtain the yellow tabien baan varies from 10 days to a few months.

Immigration Service

Those who do not have a Work Permit or a yellow tabien baan must go to the Immigration Service office to request a residence letter.

The person concerned must provide:

  • 2 identity photos (passport type) but not obligatory because your photo will be taken on site
  • Copies of passport pages: identity page, visas, arrival card (+ presentation of the original)
  • Document attesting that you reside in Thailand (lease contract, title deed, housing invoice)
  • Application form completed in English or Thai (download from the Immigration Service website)
  • Fees: around 200 baht
  • Copies of important pages of the passport (identity, visa, Arrival Card) + presentation of the original
  • Copy of French or international driving license (legalized by the French embassy) + presentation of the original
  • Medical certificate less than one month old.
  • Letter of residence
  • Fees: 300 to 700 baht.

The document (generally in 2 copies) is sent directly, by registered letter sent to the applicant’s home address, within 2 weeks following the date of submission of the application.

Transportation Office

The Transport Office is responsible for issuing the Thai driving license. The application file includes:

A series of tests is planned by the Thai administration if your international license has not expired for more than 1 year:

  • The test of recognizing the colors of traffic lights (on a machine or traffic light simulator)
  • the reflex test (Simulator with brake pedal and accelerator in a chair)
  • A one-hour video on distance perception and the ability to concentrate on driving and observing the environment. (You are in a room where people don’t even watch the video because it’s just a prevention video)
  • Beyond 1 year of expiration of your international (or national) license you have additional tests: 5 hours of video and 1 questionnaire of 100 questions. (80% correct answers will validate your Thai license)

Those who fail the tests can retake them immediately by regaining a place in the long queue. Once the test has been passed, the candidate is photographed on site and must pay the tax of 200 baht. The Thai driving license is immediately issued. It is strongly recommended to go to the Transport Office office as soon as possible. The driving license service always receives a large number of applicants.

Validity of Thai driving license

The first Thai driving license is valid for 2 years. At the end of this period, you are invited to renew the document by providing the same documents as for obtaining the first Thai permit. The file will, this time, be accompanied by a copy of the expired 2-year license. You must also repeat the same tests: taking the test, taking a photo… The granting of the new driving license will be valid for 5 years this time. Thailand is a country where you have to be patient to obtain your papers but the license is produced on site immediately.

Steps to pass your Thai driving license

Foreigners who pass their driving license in Thailand must follow all the formalities provided for the conversion of the French license or the international license and provide the same administrative documents. To improve their knowledge, they must enroll in the coding course and take the coding exam.

Thai motorcycle license

The formalities relating to the conversion of a motorcycle license as well as the terms linked to the validity of the document are the same as the procedures established for the conversion of a car driving license. A driving test on a defined route is planned as part of the motorcycle license exam, for those who do not have a French or international motorcycle license. The Thai motorcycle license is valid in all ASEAN member countries. Helmets are mandatory for both passengers even if you see Thai people without helmets on the streets.

NB: If you want a car and motorcycle license, all the above documents must be provided in duplicate.

Upcoming change to driving license

Coming soon in 2018 without giving a precise date, you will have 15 hours of compulsory driving to complete. However, the problem is that currently there are only 95 driving schools in 60 provinces in Thailand that have been approved by the Ministry of Land Transport. The Transport Minister defended these proposed new requirements saying the ministerial regulation was a necessary and essential step towards improving driving standards in the country, in order to reduce road accidents. Thailand must meet international standards of conduct governed by the Moscow agreement.

Video risk reminder

Thailand is the second deadliest country in the world on the roads. Here is a video which shows you an impressive accident in Thailand. Filming in Phuket.

 

<!– –> <iframe width= »860″ height=”415″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/2kDQPzVhu64?rel=0&amp;showinfo=0&amp;start=3″ frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>

What Jobs Are Allowed for Foreigners in Thailand?

Official list of jobs prohibited and allowed for foreigners in Thailand. What you can legally do as an expat.

Did you think that there was a list for working in Thailand?  The list of authorized professions for “foreigners” in Thailand is governed by law because the monarchy protects itself. This country is a dream destination for Europeans due to a low cost of living and an exotic environmental setting, conducive to well-being. The installation arrangements in this Asian Eldorado are, however, very complex. The labor sector in particular presents drastic restrictions for foreigners. The access of foreigners (called “foreigners” in Thai) to the labor market is subject to significant regulations. I’m not trying to discourage you, just to warn you. Your project must comply with the country to avoid depression on site.

Conditions of access to work for foreigners in Thailand

Finding a paid professional activity represents the crucial step in being able to settle in a foreign country. Having a legal profession is also an essential condition for carrying out the other necessary steps to take up residence in Thailand, in particular to find accommodation, obtain a driving license, enroll your child in school, open a bank account.

A foreigner who is looking for a job in Thailand must comply with the regulations established in the country and follow strict administrative and legal procedures. The candidate must only apply for positions that are authorized for them. Once he or she has found work that meets the standards that govern foreign employment in Thailand, the “farang” (foreigner) must apply for a non-immigrant visa for work. The Thai employer must support him in this process.

After obtaining their worker visa, the foreigner must then complete the procedures to obtain a work permit. This document represents an official authorization allowing the foreigner to legally exercise a paid professional activity on Thai territory. Obtaining this important document results from an in-depth study of the personal and professional situation of the candidate and the characteristics of the Thai structure which wishes to hire them. Standards have been established by the Thai government and the slightest inconsistency at the applicant or company level immediately results in a refusal to grant a work permit.

Compliance with legislation on access to work for foreigners is important. The restriction of access to professions provided for this purpose represents one of the fundamental regulations in the country. This must be taken into account to obtain the Work Permit. Thus, it is essential to know the complete list of professions prohibited to foreigners in Thailand and to identify the professions accessible to “foreigners”.

Professions prohibited for “foreigners” to work in Thailand

A Royal decree dating from 1979 and still in force to this day, establishes a ban on the access of foreign workers to a list of 39 professions mainly from the craft and legal sectors.

A little further down find the list of professions authorized for foreigners in Thailand but here is the complete list of professions prohibited for foreign workers in Thailand:

  • Manual labor
  • Profession in the field of agriculture, fishing and forestry
  • Jobs in the construction industry
  • Wood sculptor
  • Vehicle driver
  • Vendors on the streets
  • Careers in the auction industry
  • Jobs in the field of accounting
  • Working with precious and semi-precious stones
  • Hairdressing and aesthetics
  • Hand weaver
  • Working with straw, bamboo, rattan and reed
  • Rice paper manufacturer (manual technique)
  • Lacquerer
  • Manufacturing of Thai musical instruments
  • Niellage and niellure in goldsmithing
  • Goldsmith
  • All stone works
  • Making Thai dolls
  • Quilter and upholsterer
  • Making alms bowls
  • Making silk products (manual technique)
  • Making Buddhas
  • Cutler
  • Make umbrellas using paper or fabric
  • Shoemaker
  • Hat maker
  • Broker
  • Engineer profession in the field of civil engineering
  • All architectural professions
  • Clothing manufacturing
  • Making ceramic pots
  • Cigarette manufacturer
  • Tourist guide or tour operator
  • Peddling goods
  • Thai composition (manual technique)
  • Silk work (weaving)
  • Secretary or clerical professions
  • Professions and services in the legal field

The restrictions are due to the fact that European culture presents a significant gap compared to Thai culture. Also, the government considers that artisanal and manual trades and those whose exercise must meet standards relating to Thai customs, traditional know-how and the uses of society are not suitable for foreigners.

Furthermore, this ban also aims to preserve the order and organization of the country for working in Thailand. It is also about countering globalization which represents a real enemy for Asian culture.

Link to the Thai Ministry of Labor website but use Google translate to understand because everything is in Thai

Authorized professions for foreigners in Thailand

The professions authorized for foreigners in Thailand, i.e. foreigners and in particular Europeans, are professions requiring specific skills and knowledge.

These include professions in the following sectors:

  • Import/export trade
  • Sales and marketing
  • Industry
  • Electronic
  • High technology
  • Jewelry
  • Textile
  • Cosmetic
  • Education
  • Restoration
  • Hospitality
  • Medical

To work in Thailand, French people who have a brilliant background and a specialist diploma are the most sought after. French people established in Thailand occupy the positions of: sales specialists specialized in international markets (import/export), engineers graduated from major French (or European) schools, managers in the administrative field, teachers – teachers, chefs and kitchen assistants.

For professions authorized for foreigners in Thailand, I invite you to consult the offers in the employment area of ​​the site.

 

Why Register at the French Consulate in Thailand?

Benefits of registering at the French consulate in Thailand: voting, emergency assistance, and administrative services abroad.

More and more French people are settling in Thailand. As for all French people who choose to settle outside France, it is strongly recommended to register with the French Consulate. Registration in the register of French people established abroad has many advantages. However, due to certain inconveniences, some expatriates prefer not to appear in the consulate register.

Registration at the French consulate in Thailand

French people who have stayed for more than 6 months in Thailand are officially considered residents in the host country both in the eyes of Thai law and in relation to French legislation. Also, they are invited to register in the register of French people established outside France by contacting the regional honorary consuls or the Service dedicated to registrations, at the French Consulate, located in Bangkok.

Procedures for a first registration in the register of French people established in Thailand

Registration in the register of French people established outside France is not a compulsory administrative procedure. It is recommended to allow expatriates to enjoy certain advantages. Registration is done remotely, online, on a dedicated platform on the Service Public French website or by post to be sent to the Registration Department at the French Embassy located at: Rue de Brest, Charoenkrung Soi 36 Bangrak.

The Candidate must provide:

  • A copy of your CIN or passport
  • A document attesting that he has his main residence in Thailand and in which his home address appears
  • An identity photo
  • A registration form is available online and must be duly completed and sent, in addition to the documents required for registration.

Upon approval of registration, the French Consulate in Thailand issues a card to expatriates registered in the register of French people established abroad. Registration is valid for 5 years.

Procedures for updating or renewing registration at the French Consulate in Thailand

It is entirely possible and recommended to renew membership in the register of French people living abroad. The French consulate in Thailand notifies registrants by email within 3 months preceding the registration expiry date. Furthermore, in the event of a change in the personal situation of the person concerned, they are invited to directly update their contact details or any other information on the online platform. If the expatriate changes country of residence, he must communicate his date of departure from the former host country and his date of entry into the new country and modify all his contact details.

If the person concerned leaves Thailand to return to live in France, he must absolutely notify the Consulate to obtain a certificate of deregistration proving that he is no longer registered in the register of French people established in Thailand.

The advantages of registering at the French consulate in Thailand

Joining the register of French people living abroad has many advantages through the French consulate in Thailand, particularly from an administrative and security point of view.

A permanent attachment to the country of origin

French people registered in the register of expatriates in Thailand are informed in real time. Communication of significant events and major news in their country of origin and registration on the electoral list. They thus retain their right to vote.

Security

The contact details of relatives residing in France are communicated in the registration form at the Consulate. Also, in the event of a health or other emergency, the Embassy can quickly notify the family and take care of the person concerned. If the host country is in crisis and/or the foreigners are in danger, the expatriates registered in the register benefit from support from the Consulate and are constantly informed of the progress of the situation, the measures to be taken and in the event of an extreme emergency, benefit from ease in the repatriation procedures.

Administrative

All documents required for registration at the Consulate are recorded on the French Public Service platform. The data subject can access their online file at any time and from any location provided they have a device connected to the Internet. So he can retrieve and print all the documents when needed. Those registered in the register benefit from ease and reductions in fees for certain administrative procedures relating to installation in Thailand, such as access for minor children to study grants to continue their education in a French establishment established in Thailand.

The procedures at the French consulate in Thailand to obtain certain administrative papers such as the CIN and passport are also easier and faster.

Business Benefits

French people registered at the French consulate in Thailand can make tax-free purchases in France and Europe.

Tax benefits

A French person permanently settled in Thailand can prove that he no longer has his tax domicile in France. A resident card certifies that he is registered in the register of French people established in Thailand. Depending on its situation: it is no longer taxable in France. Depending on the case, tax relief is possible (case of French retirees living in Thailand).

Contact the consulate here

See also: How to avoid a tax adjustment when leaving France?

How to Find Housing in Thailand?

Complete guide to finding an apartment or house in Thailand: neighborhoods, prices, agencies, and negotiation tips.


📅 Published in 2017 — Updated in June 2026
🏠 Nouvelles plateformes, prix actualisés, conseils pratiques pour 2026.

🏠 Find accommodation in Thailand in 2026

🔍 Modern search platforms

PlatformKindHighlights
🟡 Hipflat (hipflat.co.th)Rental + purchaseThe most complete, EN/TH, verified photos
🟢DDpropertyRental + purchaseVery used by locals, new condos
🔵 FazWazSpecialized foreignersEN/FR agents, complete support
📘 Facebook GroupsIndividuals“[city] apartments for rent” — very active
🏡 Monthly AirbnbTest 1-3 monthsIdeal for testing a neighborhood before lease

💰 Monthly rental prices (2026)

CityStudio/1 bedroom center2 bedroomsHouse/Villa
🏙️Bangkok15,000 – 25,000 ฿25,000 – 50,000 ฿40,000 – 100,000+ ฿
🌿 Chiang Mai8,000 – 15,000 ฿12,000 – 25,000 ฿15,000 – 30,000 ฿
🏖️ Phuket15,000 – 25,000 ฿20,000 – 40,000 ฿25,000 – 100,000+ ฿
🌊 Pattaya8,000 – 18,000 ฿15,000 – 30,000 ฿20,000 – 40,000 ฿

📍 Recommended neighborhoods (French-speaking expatriates)

  • 🏙️ Bangkok: Sukhumvit (Soi 1-55), Sathorn, Silom — Alliance Frenche Soi 1, Bumrungrad Soi 3
  • 🌿 Chiang Mai: Nimman (cafes, coworking), Old City, Hang Dong (families)
  • 🏖️ Phuket: Rawai/Nai Harn (expat community), Chalong (central, affordable)

⚠️ Points of vigilance 2026

  • 💳 Deposit: 2 months deposit + 1 month advance (standard)
  • ⚡ Electricity: Official PEA rate = 4-5 ฿/unit. Some condos charge ฿7-8 (check!)
  • 📄 Contract: Require bilingual Thai-English. Check the termination clause
  • 🤝 Negotiation: Possible on 6+ month leases, especially in low season (May-October)
  • 🌐 Internet: Check that the fiber reaches the building before signing

🏗️ Buy — The Condominium Act (unchanged)

  • ✅ A foreigner can buy a condo in full ownership (quota 49% foreigners/building)
  • ❌ A foreigner cannot buy land or a house in his name
  • 🔄 Home alternatives: 30-year lease, Thai company, Thai spouse’s name

⬇️ Before it was like that…


📺 The original article

You have finally found a job in Thailand (see the article: how to find a job in Thailand?) and wish to settle there or you have decided to spend your retirement in this corner of Asian paradise and it is time for you to find accommodation in Thailand. You must absolutely know and respect the legislation concerning access to property and the rental of real estate for foreigners before embarking on your project. Since 1992, Thailand has renewed the Condominium Act. This law brings together all the articles that govern the physical ownership of real estate for foreigners in the country. Before 1992, no foreigner had access to real estate ownership in Thailand.

Buying accommodation in Thailand

Known to be a pleasant country, whether in terms of climate and tourism or in terms of business, Thailand attracts more and more Europeans (ranked in the top 10 most touristy countries in the world according to different media sources) and in particular French people each year. Most decide to settle there permanently. It is necessary to know all the rules stipulated by Thai law concerning access of foreigners to property and in particular purchase before getting started.

Conditions for finding accommodation in Thailand

An apartment meeting the conditions of Condominium, i.e. an apartment located in a co-owned building at least 51% owned by Thais, can be acquired by an immigrant (a French person). The foreign buyer who purchases an eligible apartment is officially called the owner and has administrative papers attesting that he officially owns the property. He therefore has access to acts of ownership, transferability and transmissibility. This is a Freehold situation to find accommodation in Thailand. The Freehold system consists of giving free rights to the lessee if all the clauses are respected. Thus, the French buyer is completely free to rent or sell their apartment.

Buy a house in Thailand

According to the Leashold system, a foreigner can buy a house in Thailand. However, the land remains the exclusive property of the Thais. The land is subject to a lease under a 30-year rental contract, renewable twice.

The advantages of buying real estate in Thailand

A French person has a significant financial advantage when purchasing real estate in Thailand. Indeed, with high purchasing power in a country where the cost of living is still low, a French person can invest in luxury real estate, to be able to find accommodation in Thailand. He can thus afford easy living conditions and/or in order to be able to make a profit quickly.

The disadvantages of buying real estate in Thailand

The biggest disadvantage of purchasing real estate in South East Asia is undoubtedly the difficulty of acquisition. It is essential to call on a real estate professional (an investment expert or legal advisor) to ensure that you do not get scammed. Furthermore, the procedures related to the transaction generally take a long time to find accommodation in Thailand.

Formalities for renting accommodation in Thailand

The rental of all types of accommodation is accessible to foreigners upon presentation of a valid visa and a passport. See the different visas in progress on the website of the Royal Thai Embassy in Paris.

The different types of rental contract

Rental contracts are for a fixed term. However, renewable from 1 month to 11 months for short-term contracts, from 1 to 3 years for long-term contracts. A foreigner has the possibility of renting residential real estate for a very long period ranging from 3 years to 30 years. All rental contracts for real estate exceeding a duration of 3 years in Thailand must generally be registered with the Department of Lands. This government department is responsible for issuing land titles, recording real estate transactions in Thailand, land topography and cartography.

However, it should be noted that the clauses of the Thai real estate law grant more rights and importance to the foreign owner than to the tenant. To find accommodation in Thailand, it is therefore essential to respect all the points of the rental contract. Like avoiding subletting under penalty of immediate conflicts with the owner. The latter will request payment of 2 months’ deposit and 1 month’s rent at the time of signing the rental contract.

Advantages of renting in Thailand

Renting represents an economical housing solution. Indeed, rents always include charges. It is therefore no longer necessary to set aside a variable amount to pay these bills since they are included in the amount of the monthly rent. Furthermore, the majority of rental properties in Thailand are furnished, fitted out and fully equipped. You no longer have to organize the move from one city to another. Also no more waiting for the delivery of furniture, appliances and furnishings. You can immediately move into your home and live there comfortably as soon as the real estate transaction is concluded.

Disadvantages of renting in Thailand

Renting accommodation that is already furnished and decorated, however, has a significant disadvantage: the impossibility of making the premises your own. Some people do not feel comfortable in this living environment. In addition to drastic government regulations and the imposition of layout, some Thai landlords do not hesitate to impose conditions. They are sometimes severe, such as a ban on owning a pet, limiting the number of people occupying the accommodation or living with disabled people*. (*source of an agency in Thailand: sad measures…)

Contact a French-speaking real estate agency

Finding a French-speaking real estate agency is the best solution. She will help you rent or buy real estate. It will meet your needs and expectations. The Vauban Company, belonging to an international group specializing in the real estate sector, has a network of 6 agencies established in Thailand and particularly in the main cities: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket.

This agency in Thailand provides all information relating to legislation and regulations. She explains to you that access to property for foreigners in Thailand is an achievable challenge. The agency offers personalized support from the search for eligible and appropriate real estate to the completion of real estate transactions. Buying or renting is always best if you have a serious company to help you. This agency was given to me by a French-speaking Thai lawyer specializing in real estate law.

Book an Airbnb

For a first stay in Thailand and to get an idea of ​​the accommodation, book via Airbnb. So you can form your opinion of the lifestyle that will await you there. Reservations possible in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Ko Samui or other cities and regions. Using this link will earn you €35 credit when registering and €65 more when making your first reservation. This will pay you 1 night on average on site. A little gift in partnership with Airbnb and Francejetequitte.

[box] I did not make this article to advertise Airbnb but really to be of service to you like all the content on the Francejetequitte site, so please post only constructive comments (your experiences for example).[/box]

 

[button link=”http://www.airbnb.fr/c/alexm5338″ type=”small” color=”black” newwindow=”yes”]BOOK AIRBNB[/button]

How to Leave France for Thailand Without a Tax Audit?

Legal steps to leave France for Thailand without triggering a tax audit. Fiscal residency rules and exit strategies.

📅 Published in 2017 — Updated in June 2026
⚖️ Exit tax, Thai tax reform 2024, bilateral convention: the rules have changed.

⚖️ Tax Guide 2026 — Leaving France for Thailand

🏛️ Exit Tax (article 167 bis CGI)

Source: impots.gouv.fr — March 2026 version.

Are you affected? 3 cumulative conditions:

  1. 🇫🇷 French tax residence for ≥ 6 of the last 10 years
  2. 💼 Movable assets (shares, company shares) ≥ €800,000 — OR ownership ≥ 50% of a company
  3. ✈️ Effective transfer of tax domicile outside France

What IS NOT concerned: direct real estate, life insurance, SICAV/FCP, current accounts.

2026 rate: 30% (PFU) = 12.8% IR + 17.2% social security contributions.

⏳ Suspension of payment:

  • 🇪🇺 To EU/EEA: automatic reprieve
  • 🇹🇭 To Thailand: reprieve on request (form 90 days before departure + guarantees)

✅ Reduction (cancellation of tax):

  • < 2 570 000 € → dégrèvement après 2-year securities without sale
  • Securities ≥ €2,570,000 → relief after 5 years without sale
  • ⚠️ Sale during the suspension = tax immediately due

Forms: 2074-ETD (start) + 2074-ETSL (annual follow-up).

🇫🇷🇹🇭 France-Thailand Tax Convention (1974)

Management: DGFIP (France) + Revenue Department (Thailand).

  • ✅ Private pension (AGIRC-ARRCO, CNAV) → Taxed in France, exempt in Thailand
  • ✅ Civil service pension → Taxed in France, exempt in Thailand
  • 🏠 Real estate income France → Taxed in France, tax credit in Thailand
  • 💼 Income from work in Thailand → Taxed in Thailand

🆕 Thai tax reform (January 1, 2024)

Clarified by: Embassy of France in Thailand + Revenue Department Thai (th.diplomatie.gouv.fr).

✅ French pensions imposed in France are exempt in Thailand (article 23 of the convention). They do not have to be declared in the Thai declaration.

🏥 Mandatory O-A visa insurance (since October 2019)

  • 🏨 Hospitalization: ≥ 400,000 ฿
  • 🩺 Outpatient: ≥ 40,000 ฿
  • 🦠 COVID (since 2021): ≥ 3,000,000 ฿
  • 📋 Approved insurers: tgia.org | Foreign insurer: Foreign Insurance Certificate required

💡 My experience

I have lived between the United Kingdom and Thailand since 2019. The key: prepare your tax exit BEFORE leaving. €500 consultation with a specialist tax lawyer can save you tens of thousands of euros.


⬇️ The original article is just below — the basics remain the same, the context has changed


📺 The original article (2017)

How to Find a Job in Thailand?

Practical guide to finding work in Thailand as a foreigner: job boards, networking, salaries, and visa requirements.


📅 Published in 2017 — Updated in June 2026
💼 Teleworking and DTV have changed everything. You no longer have to have a Thai employer.

💼 Work in Thailand in 2026

🌍 Teleworking has changed everything

In 2017, working legally = Thai employer + Work Permit. In 2026, this is only one option among four:

  • 🌍 DTV (July 2024): Work for a foreign employer, legally. 5 years, 180 days/entry.
  • 🌟 LTR Visa (2022): For > 80k USD/year. Digital Work Permit included, tax 17%.
  • 🚀 Smart-S: Startup founders in BOI targeted industries.
  • 📋 Classic Work Permit: Always necessary if Thai employer.

🔍 Recruitment platforms in 2026

PlatformSpecialitySpecial features
🥇JobsDB.comGeneralist (n°1 in TH)Larger volume, filters by visa accepted
💼 LinkedInManagement, tech, multinationalsEssential for skilled positions
🚀 WorkVenture.comStartups, tech, digitalThai “Welcome to the Jungle”
📘 Facebook GroupsExpats, teaching, F&B“Jobs in Thailand for Foreigners”
📚 Ajarn.comEducationEnglish/French teaching positions

📊 Sectors recruiting French people in 2026

SectorIndicative salaryProfiles
📚 Teaching30,000 – 60,000 ฿License + TEFL/DELF. The most accessible.
🏨 Hospitality/Tourism40,000 – 100,000 ฿F&B management, revenue management
💻 Tech/Digital50,000 – 150,000 ฿Dev, UX, digital marketing, AI, data
🏭 Industry (BOI)80,000 – 200,000 ฿Engineers, supply chain. Michelin, Schneider, L’Oréal
🍽️ F&B40,000 – 80,000 ฿Chefs, restaurant managers, sommeliers

💰 Foreign minimum salary: 50,000 ฿/month (French). Fixed by nationality, unchanged since 2008.

🇫🇷 French Companies in Thailand

The FTCC (Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce) lists ~300 active French companies:

Michelin, L’Oréal, Saint-Gobain, Schneider Electric, TotalEnergies, Accor, Air Liquide, Alstom, Bureau Veritas, JCDecaux, Pernod Ricard, Safran, Sanofi, Sodexo, Thales, Valeo…

📍 FTCC Contact: 6th Floor, Vorawat Building, 849 Silom Road, Bangrak, Bangkok. Tel: +66 2 650 9613.


⬇️ Before it was like that…


📺 The original article

Thailand is a vacation destination par excellence. The idyllic living environment attracts more and more Europeans, who even decide to settle there permanently after successful stays in this corner of paradise where the cost of living is very low. It is essential to find stable work before deciding to move to Thailand. The steps to finding a job in Thailand are quite complex due to the fact that local labor law is not the same as in Europe and access to work can be very difficult for foreigners.

Accessibility of work in Thailand for a foreigner

Many jobs in Thailand are prohibited for foreigners. There is a list of 39 jobs, particularly in the medical, administrative and craft sectors, which are prohibited for foreigners. This list was established by the Alien Employment Act. Furthermore, certain sectors of activity which do not appear in this list are also difficult to access, or even inaccessible to foreigners, especially Europeans, due to the significant cultural shock. It is also important to note that competition in the job market is fierce between Westerners and the Chinese. Many of them also want to move to settle in this Asian Eldorado.

Foreigners who have completed extensive studies and have a well-rounded CV, with quality career paths, have a greater chance of being hired by a Thai company. Salespeople and engineers from French major schools are in greatest demand in the country.

50% of French’s recruitments represent jobs in the industrial sector. Europeans also have a chance of finding positions in the cosmetics, aeronautics, jewelry, consulting, high-tech, hotel and textile sectors.

Conditions for finding a job in Thailand

With strict Thai legislation regulating access to work for foreigners, they must comply with several important conditions to find a job in the country.

Have concrete motivation

Europeans are attracted, from the first glance, by the exotic living environment and the pleasant way of life of Thailand. The pace there is very far from the routine and daily pressures of the major European capitals. However, integrating into the job market is really tough for foreigners, especially those from another continent. The Thai government seriously regulates the work of foreigners. The job seeker and the employer are subject to special legislation, different from the laws in force for local workers. Knowledge, in advance, of the legislative framework of work represents a great necessity before starting the steps to search for a first job in Thailand. It is strongly recommended to find out about the labor legislation for foreigners to be able to assess the scale and feasibility of the project.

Get organized

French nationals can stay for a period of less than 30 days in Thailand without the need to obtain a specific visa. A very motivated person generally manages to find a job during this period of almost 1 month. However, it is best to take your time. Also, obtaining a 3-month tourist visa turns out to be a better solution. The tourist visa is issued by the Thai authorities represented by the embassy. The tourist visa applicant must provide the following documents to obtain a single entry tourist visa:

  • A copy of the first 5 parts of the passport dated less than 6 months ago,
  • A copy of the CIN or a copy of the residence card (or residence permit) for foreign nationals residing in France,
  • A completed Thailand visa application form with 1 recent ID photo pasted on it
  • A copy of the plane ticket with details of the entry and exit date,
  • A copy of the bank account statement bearing the bank stamp and indicating a credit balance of a minimum sum of 1000 euros.

The file processing fee amounts to around thirty euros, non-refundable, and the visa is generally granted within 6 days following the date of submission of the application file.

The tourist has the right to extend his stay whether it is a visa-exempt stay of less than 30 days or a tourist stay of 3 months. To do this, he must go to the country’s immigration office, with the following documents:

  • a copy of the plane ticket with exact mention of the date of return to France,
  • a recent identity photo,
  • a document mentioning the exact address of the accommodation.

The visa extension fee is 1900 baht. However, it is important to specify that the foreign tourist is entitled to a single extension of stay of 30 days.

The employer who decides to hire a foreigner must carry out administrative procedures to obtain permission to hire a foreign worker from the Ministry of Labor and in particular from the department responsible for foreign workers. This office will be responsible for communicating its decision: approval or refusal, via an official letter which is directly addressed to the foreign job seeker. Upon receipt of this official document, the latter can immediately begin an application for a non-immigrant visa for work for 3 months, with the possibility of extension. Before definitively taking up his position, the foreign worker must (still) obtain a work permit.


“I recommend you read one of these books that I read myself”:

[amazon_link asins=’B00FLLBGKG,B00KZB1WZG’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’francejetequi-21′ marketplace=’FR’ link_id=’ 7c0c08a4-8338-11e7-9674-db239fb73121′]


Who should I contact to find a job in Thailand?

It is very important to do more research on platforms dedicated to job offers and not hesitate to browse the classified ads. Learning the Thai language takes some time. Also, the best is to turn to international job sites containing mainly advertisements in English. With a little luck it is even possible to come across ads written in French.

Coming into contact with as many residents as possible, particularly with resident foreigners, and joining as many networks as possible which bring together foreign workers allows you to create relationships. This can considerably help in the process of finding your first job in Thailand.

To find a job in Thailand, the Franco-Thai Chamber of Commerce (FTCC) helps French people integrate into Thailand. The FTCC regularly organizes CV and cover letter workshops. These two essential job search documents must be written in English, which is the main international language used in Thailand. The FTCC also provides personalized coaching sessions to enable foreigners to get used to job interviews and to familiarize themselves with Thai legislation and the demands of Thai employers. FTCC partners with more than 270 companies. This entity supports French people to facilitate and accelerate their job search and their integration in Thailand.

Then think about:

  • apply for a work permit
  • Open a bank account in Thailand

Tips for finding a job in Chiang Mai for example with this serious company which provides you with the permit and visa:

  • http://www.clbs.co.th/jobs/

Bangkok by Day, Bangkok by Night in 50 Seconds!

Video tour of Bangkok’s contrasts: bustling day markets and vibrant nightlife captured in 50 seconds.

Bangkok by day,

Bangkok by day or Bangkok by night, it’s the same city but with two different souls that you can easily fall in love with. Smells, noises, laughter, tears, the incredible, taste, sensations and other things that cannot leave you indifferent. This city is totally different from Delhi in India which I also visited.  When you arrive there, you already feel better than in France, as long as you are sensitive to Asian culture. Bangkok, during the day, is a real playground for big kids, so I’ll give you some places I visited. They are to be done during the day between 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. in the order you want.

Wat Pho

This one is unmissable, known to many tourists and travel agencies, it must be done without discussion. Featuring a huge reclining Buddha, the Wat Pho temple is splendid. It represents Tuesday, in relation to the position of the Buddha which is horizontal. Did you know that each day of the week has its Buddha position? This Buddha is 15 meters high and 46 m long and is mesmerizing. A good visit to see the side of Bangkok by day.

As in all temples in Thailand, you are required to remove your shoes before entering. Don’t forget that money is also obligatory. Not giving Buddha an offering, even if you are not Thai, is not necessarily well-regarded. We don’t ask you to put 1000 baht but if you have at least 100 baht in change, that’s good. Why change and not notes? Well the reason is that you will have the right to play a little game. You will have to put the pieces in cups lined up in a row. These cuts are visible to everyone and you will put one or two coins in each.

Khao San Road

The street that greeted me in Bangkok when I just got off the plane. This street is truly representative of Bangkok during the day. The first thing you might do is eat so much, you’ll be hungry after a 14-hour flight and transfer. Strolling here is easy because the shops are everywhere, restaurants, bars, clothes, music, massages, hotels, guest houses. You are spoiled for choice as a French or French speaker to please yourself. Around the corner there is even a McDonald’s which has taken up residence if you are hesitant to change your eating habits. However, pad thai is the king’s choice here. The noodles are cooked by the kilogram, and can be eaten in less than an hour. With chicken, eggs, or both, pad thai is the dish to eat for your first time in Bangkok. This dish is like a drug because once you eat it, you are addicted to it. In Bangkok during the day, there is so much to eat, it’s crazy. You can see the pad thai recipe on the site.

The royal palace: Wat Phra Kaew

In my video of the Bangkok tour, you can see me in front of its entrance. This palace is jaw-droppingly beautiful (that is, if I had legs…) In short, it takes no less than 2 hours to make the most of this place full of stories, engravings, statues, goldwork and ancient texts. Spirituality is very present there in addition to the sovereignty that reigns there. This palace costs 500 bath per foreign visitor and remains free for Thais. And yes, not fair eh? But it’s because our currency is stronger and it benefits Thailand’s prosperity. Bangkok during the day also has little surprises in store for you like these. If you want to conserve your cash, give this role to the Yakshas, ​​the dragon-headed guardians with colorful faces in the palace. They are the guardians of the treasure according to legends.

The klong of Bangkok by day

Bangkok’s canals called « the Klong » are located on the banks of the Chao Phraya. The most famous are the klongs of “Bangkok Yai”, “Klong Mon”, “Bangkok Noi” and “Klong Om”. To visit the klongs, there are several possible starting points. By BTS or Skytrain, move to the Saphan Taskin station (see maps) and at the pier you will be lured by “motivated” people who will offer you tours of 1h30 to 3h in their boats. From the piers of Tha Chang, Tha Tien and Tha Ratchawong, we also offer a starting point for floating on the banks. Pay attention to the prices of his “cuties”, which sell for more than the market. For them you are pigeons, so if you don’t want to end up a sissy: negotiate! On the banks of the Chao Phray River, Bangkok by day exudes a peaceful, modern karma. But that doesn’t mean the boatmen forget to take a few euros from you along the way.

The Unicorn Bar in Bangkok

Yes, if you read my title correctly. Bangkok during the day is also a crazy time. There has been this trendy bar in Bangkok for some time that is based on the unicorn theme. So girls, shall we jump to the ceiling? Fairies like “my little pony” will bring back your memories of friends brushing your “little darling” with the pink mane of the 80s. What girl didn’t have her “little pony” at 6 years old? If you were “martyred” by your parents, then you will be able to fill this psychological void quickly.

Located in Bangkok’s Silom business district, Unicorn Café is your hangout. Pink, blue, green, yellow, orange “cup’s cakes”. We even have the impression of encountering the “Care Bears” in this sanctuary. You have the right to dress up as a unicorn, to wear pajamas with unicorn head hoods worthy of Japanese fashion. You have the right to scream, jump, play with the stuffed animals and video games provided. It’s a real nursery for big girls. You can drink a fruit juice or a cocktail from multi-colored stars with an equally crazy straw. Bangkok by day, it’s incredible in this café. Alcohol is consumable because the target audience is you ladies. So go ahead and let go, because that’s how we love you!


Also equip yourself for Thailand!  Below Amazon offers the most recent versions of the brand guides. I even thought of our English-speaking friends with an English version for a “Kindle” e-reader. If you want to take images, here is my drone.

[amazon_link asins=’B01M1080NT,2816154645,2816148521,2013237049,B06XFV5XR5′ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’francejetequi-21′ marketplace=’FR’ link_id=’ff70439b-5b53-11e7-8625-5b636b823dbb’]


Bangkok at night

Bangkok at night, another face opens up to you. The one of parties, street food, Cowboy rodeos with young girls, ping-pong shows, tuk-tuk “boom booms”. And yes, it’s less glorious than the day, but what fun do we have to look at for the pleasure of the eyes, when we come to it with peace of mind. Below I offer you my night route plan to do in this order for scheduling reasons.

Sky Bar the Moon Vertigo

In my desire for nocturnal madness, I started my journey by going to Moon Vertigo. Discovering Bangkok at night is also your duty. If you know the term skybar in France, you will see that our skybars are small players. It was from this building that I made my video and that I fell in love with the Thai capital. Restaurant, hotel and spa, in addition to the open-air bar. From time to time, Vertigo organizes rooftop parties to the delight of its regular customers. If you want to dance and have a drink with a height of more than 61 floors, this is the perfect place.

Charoen krung neighborhood funfair

In the video above, you see the Ferris wheel and that is the location of the funfair. This funfair remains stationary all year round. All these beautiful lights, these smells of sweets give a magical side to your journey through the night. Opposite the Chao Phray, the funfair offers classic attractions, but also thrill rides, and even skill game stands. Bangkok at night is also this spirit where you can return to childhood or remain a retarded teenager. I recommend going there by Skytrain and getting off at the same stop as Bangkok’s Riverfront Market.

“The Riverfront” market in Bangkok

This night market is a must-see and above all a must-do. It is installed in old warehouses which belonged to a Danish timber company. 1500 shops, 40 restaurants over more than 80,000 m2. Bangkok at night is also the pleasure of gastronomy at all hours. Take your rollerblades and your bike otherwise your feet will swell!  A free river shuttle is available to access it from the Sphan Taksin skytrain or BTS station. A nice little stroll on the water to get to the market without stress.

The Chao Phraya River is generally calm so no seasickness here. This market has lots of colorful signs, well-appointed rows and competitive “made in Thailand” prices.  The infrastructure is modern with the funfair’s Ferris wheel which allows you to see the panoramic view of Bangkok at night. the market is open every day from 5:00 p.m. to midnight. It is located at Soi 72 and 76 of Charoen krung avenue on the left bank of Chao Phraya.

Soi cowboy: A little rodeo?

If you think of the American Wild West, you are in the wrong place except for the Rodeo. Located in Sukuhmwit, Cowboy Street has a Las Vegas feel with all its neon signs. The type of rodeo practiced here is mainly aimed at men alone or in groups in Bangkok at night. Generally, Thais do not accost a man accompanied by his wife. This way we avoid a scandal. Problems are not good for business. So, if we leave you alone it’s not to please Madame.

To get there, either take a tuk-tuk or the skytrain and stop at the “AsokBref” station. Descend to street level via the skytrain escalators. Once in the street on the left, you can see the first pink neon lights on the sidewalk opposite. You will quickly learn that every step you take in the 300 meters of this street will be the longest of your life if you stop. This hot corner of the capital is mainly frequented by expatriates, but there are also many tourists who may have heard about prostitution in Thailand.

Baccarat

This establishment offers adult entertainment which is not really authorized but tolerated by the authorities of Thailand. It is located at the end of Soi Cowboy. That said, several drinks or looking or smiling is allowed, the rest of the “package” is not. Baccarat is run by a former French nightclub owner who I knew from another professional life. He settled in Bangkok several years ago and we saw each other again after 10 years of radio silence. He too was fed up with France and followed his path based on his know-how. When I spoke with him, at no time did he tell me he wanted to return to France. One thing led to another, he doesn’t mince his words and harsh language is not his thing. According to him: “we are governed by buffoons who have a life outside of time and ours.” If you have the opportunity to talk with him you will see that the man is much smarter than the karma he exudes from himself. In any case, I remember this moment when I toasted with him. But I haven’t changed my negative opinion about the business of women’s bodies in Bangkok at night.

Insomnia club

To finish off your nighttime getaway, this club is perfect for seeing Bangkok at night!  It’s the place for 18-35 year olds to have fun all night long and it’s not far from Cowboy. It is a second establishment, since the one in Pattaya remains the reference and belongs to the same group. A 10-minute walk after your visit to the red light district, take a look at “Insomnia” (see maps). It is located at 234 Sukhumvit Soi 12 in Bangkok. If you don’t want to go to bed, now is the time to go for it. You will be amazed by the sound and lights. The club is known for welcoming DJs from all cities around the world, but especially from Asia. Sometimes a Chinese DJ, a Vietnamese one, or even a Japanese duo. This approach to Thai night also shows you that our way of doing things is really different and helps you to open up. At the bar, the prices are fair: a beer 160 bath, a whiskey 1900 bath, a soda 70 bath. For entry you pay around 350 bath if my memories are intact.

To conclude, I would say that Bangkok at night is another side of the coin and that you have to know how to appreciate it for its true value as you could appreciate Bangkok during the day. Everyone has their own preference and I decided to like both. And what is your response in your comments?

 

Visiting Dharamsala

Travel guide to Dharamsala, India — home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile.

A small town but a big passion for Tibet

Visit Dharamsala because it is worth the detour if you want to understand India even if this region has more the colors of Tibet. Since the arrival of the Dalai Lama in the 1950s, the city has been covered with Tibetan flags and monks in burgundy outfits parade through the streets of Dharamsala. We hardly dare believe that we are still in the country when arriving there from the bus station or the airport. To get there, these  two ways are the easiest from Delhi. The bus is less expensive and goes through Chandigart but will cost you 12 hours of travel time including traffic jams. If you opt for the plane, count on €150 one way but 1h30 to be there.

Dharamsala is a relay between its city center and the real village where the Dalai Lama lives. You can read the article on macleod Ganj and my meeting with the 14th Dalai Lama. It is the village where the concentration of Tibetans is the highest in the Indian mountains. The Tibetan government lives in Macleod Ganj but the monks often move between the village and Dharamsala.

Visit Dharamsala, but what can I do?

Like all cities in India, linger on the temples. They are pretty and discreet in this region and open you up to other traditions. Visiting Dharamsala is mainly because its holiness is present in the region. But not only that, because it is also popular with hikers and trekking fans. If you like mountain landscapes, you have chosen a good stopover on the road to Rishikesh. And if you want to go further, Nepal opens its doors to you through the mountains.

For me, it is only a step on a mountaineer’s journey, because tourist activities are restricted in Dharamsala. I had the opportunity to go see waterfalls in the mountains, see a church lost in the forest or even meet villagers. This city is a beautiful bubble of calm, greenery and tranquility in the land of horns. Little pollution, little noise from cars and above all lots of breathtaking landscapes to practice yoga. You find Ashrams on the road to accommodate you and put your life on hold. Yoga session with all the sauces and classes on inner meditation.

Yoga and Tibetan culture

Between India and its yoga and Tibet and its cuisine, you don’t have to choose. The two are complementary and nothing requires you to be on a diet. In the streets, you can smell the good smells escaping from the restaurant kitchens. and I invite you to taste the famous “Tibetan momos”. See the recipe in the article

Stroll through the streets and enjoy the special atmosphere of this region to buy scarves, sweaters, or even Tibetan hats. Colors everywhere, red, yellow, blue, green just like the flag of Tibet. I would add that if you want to go to Tibet later, I advise you to talk about it at the administrative center located a little further down the street. You should know that the Chinese government dominates the region. Political tension is high and tourism is strictly regulated because you will not be able to be free in your actions. Chinese officers will check you every day to see what you do and what you say. Human rights do not apply in this former country claimed by China as a region.

LINK:  See also Tripadvisor to do like me. Search word: Dharamsala