Bangkok, 11 November, 2014 – Thailand ranks the world’s 7^th top destination for expats, and is the top rank in terms of affordable quality living, according to the HSBC Expat Explorer 2014 survey.

For the top 10 destinations for expats, Switzerland is in the top rank, followed by Singapore, China, Germany, Bahrain, New Zealand, Thailand, Taiwan, India and Hong Kong.

For expats’ expenses, Thailand was rated the top destination for cost-effective quality living. It is followed by Vietnam, Taiwan, China, Bahrain, India, Turkey, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait.

Experience Thailand like a local, by giving alms to Buddhist monks. (Picture taken at Phu Tub Berg in Phetchabun by Jamikorn Srikam, an entrant of the TAT Newsroom Contest 2014)

Mr. Thawatchai Arunyik, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand said, “This is great news, and it is very encouraging to see that expats have high regard for Thailand, especially in terms of cost-effective quality living. It is also very encouraging that Thailand receives a nod of approval from expats to be in the top 10 destinations, as the country has seen a number of positive changes over the last six months.”

According to the HSBC Expat Explorer 2014, Thailand emerges as the best destination for expats looking for an improved lifestyle at an affordable cost.

The report said, “This greater level of disposable income can be attributed to the high proportion of expats who say they spend less on utilities (71 per cent compared to a global average of 26 per cent), on accommodation (70 per cent compared to a global average of 23 per cent), on public transport (69 per cent compared to a global average of 35 per cent) and on groceries (66 per cent compared to 22 per cent globally).”

Thai cuisine, Thai culture and shopping experiences in Thailand were regarded highly by expats who participated in the survey.

For travelling experiences, over two-thirds of expats said they travelled more since moving to Thailand, taking advantage of the beautiful destinations across the country and Bangkok’s position as a gateway to the rest of Asia.

“79 per cent (of expats) say it is simple to travel around locally, be it to historical sites and temples, the national parks in the mountains or the stunning beach resorts,” according to the survey.

Blessed with the unique Thainess character, Thailand offers a wide variety of natural and historical attractions, distinctive culture and a range of fun-filled activities from spa and shopping experiences to Thai cooking and kickboxing lessons.

For the full survey, visit: HSBC Expat Explorer 2014

About the HSBC Expat Explorer 2014