A+ Expat Corner: Southeast Asia’s Best and Affordable Expat Destinations
Southeast Asia is a unique and culturally diverse mix of countries that each offer a different adventure. With a mix of relaxed, carefree island life and bustling, modern cities, these destinations will give you the experience to remember.
It is loaded with options for people wanting to find a place to live that’s fun, cheap, and comfortable.
Here is a list of the best cities to live and work in Southeast Asia:
THAILAND
The Thai economy has benefited greatly from the influx of foreign workers. These are expats who choose to live here not because they love beach parties and cheap massages, but because Thailand’s low cost of living and high quality of life make it a perfect place to live a location-independent lifestyle.
The majority of expats arrive in Bangkok, the capital city, another expat favorite is Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand. It is a university town with a relaxed feel, surrounded by the glorious mountain scenery of the Chiang Mai Mountains.
The cost of living in Thailand is cheaper than in most countries. And it’s especially cheap if you compare the prices to what they are in the United States.
In terms of healthcare, it is not surprising that Thailand is becoming more popular for medical tourism which means expats can take advantage of the reputation of the Thai healthcare system without crowds of tourists in the waiting rooms.
PHILIPPINES
Aside from the many world-class islands, friendly locals, and vibrant culture, expats feel especially welcomed by the Filipinos’ sense of warmth and hospitality. The Philippines also has one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia and is ranked as the “Most Business-Friendly” country by the World Bank (2008).
Filipinos do not discriminate in their workplaces. There are a lot of foreigners working in different companies and industries, even holding major positions and doing highly technical work. The BPO industry strengthens the Philippines’ workforce and multinational companies boost the economy.
The cost of living in the country is reasonably low and varies depending on where someone lives. Manila is the most expensive area to live with $1,800 per month needed to live decently. Expat parents that stay in the Philippines for a prolonged period usually send their children to private or international schools mostly located in Metro Manila.
While Philippine laws do not require expats to have health insurance while living in the country, medical treatments can be expensive without coverage.
VIETNAM
Vietnam has grown fast in recent years. Its economy grew 6.2% in 2017, the fastest rate of the past 10 years. The World Bank expects the economy to expand even more next year, with growth hitting 6.7%.
The weather, low cost of living, vibrant culture, and steady improvements in the country’s infrastructure are attractive to expats. The average annual salary for an expat moving to Vietnam is US $78,750, which is higher than the global average of US $75,966.
Vietnam’s healthcare services are competitive with those offered in other first-world countries, but the price is significantly lower. The country also has state-of-the-art dentists, medical clinics, and plastic surgeons.
MALAYSIA
Although Malaysia’s population of around 32 million is not the largest in Southeast Asia, its diverse demographics make it one of the most culturally vibrant countries in the region.
Kuala Lumpur—a bustling multicultural hub—has long been home to expats and travelers from around the world. In the center of the city, you’ll find a buzzing central business district, filled with skyscrapers and shopping malls.
The cost of living is 44% lower in Malaysia than in the UK, so you can afford a much grander lifestyle on a much smaller wage.
For business owners and travelers, one of the perks of living here is that you can visit other countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia quickly because the airports are nearby. You can also fly directly to London, France, or China.
The standards of their medical care are good, but the costs are high, so you need to have sufficient international health insurance in case you need care or treatment.
CAMBODIA
Economically, Cambodia is benefiting from its growing trade relationship with Vietnam and Thailand. Investors are now seeing increasing investment opportunities. This means that now there are a host of opportunities and businesses that can succeed and grow here.
Currently, between 150,000 and 200,000 foreigners live in Cambodia. The living costs vary whether you live in the city center or rural areas. For example, in Phnom Penh, a person’s rent can range from $300 to $400 per month for a fully furnished two-bedroom apartment, while $150-$200 for a one-bedroom. Utilities are about $20 per month.
Cambodia is a great place for expats to live and work, however, it’s important to be insured properly because their healthcare does not always get the best reputation. Many patients are going to Thailand for higher quality care and other significant medical issues.
Our SEA Plans Exclusive for Residents of Southeast Asia
For all expatriates, health is a top priority whether they are a young professional, going to retire, or even just staying for less than a year. They must protect themselves no matter where they go. Selecting the most suitable health plan is, therefore, the first concern for any expat who has just arrived in Southeast Asia.
A+ International Healthcare provides international healthcare for globally mobile people around the world. With A+ Southeast Asia Plans, residents from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam can enjoy first-class international health coverage starting from $500,000 to protect them whenever and wherever they are.
If you want lasting peace of mind, our plans are specifically designed for people concerned with their own protection as well as their family’s health. With a cover that gives security wherever you are, our plans ensure that your health comes first.
Through our first-class health cover, we support your international mobility globally and around the clock. Visit https://aplusii.com/southeast-asia-plans/ for full details of each Southeast Asia Plan.
Contact us to get in touch with our Brokers or Get a Quote now.
Since 2008, A+ International Healthcare has been providing best-in-class medical health plans around the world. To know more about our products and services, visit http://www.aplusii.com, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates.
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