Despite its huge popularity among international travelers, there will be many who question whether Bangkok is safe for remote workers. A popular place to begin a southeast-Asian adventure, the Thai capital is a place like no other for those seeking culture, fun and nature in this part of the world. Nonetheless, Bangkok is an extremely hectic city, and while we can say it is generally safe, there are certainly things all visitors must be on the lookout for. In general, it is important for all visitors to stay away from protests and to be mindful of the fact that it is a crime to criticize Thailand’s royal family. If you take the usual precautions and use your judgment wisely, you can experience just how safe Bangkok is for remote workers.

In terms of common crimes and accidents, the facts show Bangkok is safe for remote workers. Visitors will want to be on the look out in particular, however, for pickpockets and bag-snatchers in the popular and crowded parts of the city. It is these petty crimes of street theft that are most common in Bangkok, and visitors are indeed the most common targets. The US Department of State also advices all visitors to be cautious of traffic in Bangkok, as road accidents involving pedestrians are extremely common within the hectic congestion of the city.

Remote workers living in Bangkok will also want to be aware of scams commonly carried out in the city, and how to avoid them. Most of these have to do with taxis -- it is extremely important that you either use only metered taxis or firmly agree a price for your journey before boarding. Commonly, taxi drivers will deliberately take congested routes to be able to charge you more, which is only one of many important reasons you should always have a map of the area handy on your phone. It is also common for Tuk-Tuk drivers to overcharge or convince you to visit shops they earn commissions in -- you should be confident and assertive whenever dealing with complicated drivers.

It is advisable in general for remote workers in Bangkok to drink only bottled water, since the city’s water pipes are old and it is always best to avoid illness abroad. You will want to try the street food here, however -- Bangkok is renowned as the street food capital of the world, and you can rest assured that if locals are eating somewhere that it is generally safe. Of course, be careful if you suffer from particular allergies, and if possible always keep an eye on the food-making process at street stalls. Environmentally, Bangkok is a safe city for remote workers During the spring months, it is likely that the city will experience higher levels of pollution, and if you are asthmatic or suffer from existing health conditions it is advisable to stay indoors.

For all types of visitors in Bangkok, the city’s vibrant nightlife scene is one of the biggest attractions. While Bangkok is safe for remote workers and you are encouraged to experience the local nightlife, it will be extremely important for all visitors to exercise the usual caution here. It is always a good idea to club with a group, if possible, and to take taxis if traveling later in the evening. An important thing to keep in mind is that, despite a booming sex-tourism industry, prostitution remains illegal in Thailand. Equally, drug use is not tolerated at all and carries tough penalties.

In the style of the greatest metropolitan cities of the world, Bangkok is tolerant and diverse. For female remote workers visiting Bangkok alone, it will be easy to meet other expats and women around the city. In general, it is recommended solo female travelers enjoy the city’s nightlife with a group and use taxis if travelling later in the evening. In the same way, LGBTQ+ individuals will enjoy the city’s tolerance and active scene. It is worth keeping in mind that Thailand does have one of the highest HIV rates in the world, and that Bangkok's tolerance may not be so easily found in more rural areas away from the capital.

For more information about living in Bangkok as a remote worker, check out our complete Bangkok guide.