Popular expat clubs and organizations in Bangkok provide many unique opportunities for international travelers. These groups offer a wide variety of activities to help new arrivals integrate into the local culture, build relationships with other expats, and gain access to helpful resources.
Contents:
- Bangkok Expat Network
- British Club of Thailand
- American Women’s Association of Thailand
- German-Thai Chamber of Commerce
- French-Thai Chamber of Commerce
- International Newcomers Network (INN)
- Australian and New Zealand Association of Thailand (ANZAT)
- Japan Business Association in Thailand
- Singapore Thai Chamber of Commerce
- The Hash House Harriers
- International Women’s Club of Bangkok
- International Schools Sports Tournament (ISST)
- Rotary Club of Bangkok
- The Royal Bangkok Sports Club
- Bangkok Toastmasters
- Chiang Mai Expats Club
- Phuket Expats Club
- Hua Hin Expats Club
- Pattaya Expats Club
- Samui Expats Club
The majority of these clubs are open to any expatriate living in or visiting Bangkok, although some may require memberships or fees. In general, they tend to focus on specific interests such as language learning, travel planning, cultural exchange programs and social events. Many also organize trips around Thailand or other countries in Southeast Asia so that members can explore the region together.
These clubs typically have an active online presence via websites or social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram which allows them to keep their members up-to-date on upcoming events. They also often host meetups at local bars or cafes where people can get together informally for conversation and networking opportunities. Many have official meetings at least once a month where more formal discussions take place about issues affecting expatriates in the city.
Popular expat clubs and organizations in Bangkok provide support services such as legal advice for navigating Thai bureaucracy and connecting newcomers with jobs that fit their skillset and qualifications. These types of services enable visitors to make the most out of their stay while feeling secure during their transition period abroad.
Bangkok Expat Network
Bangkok expat network is a dynamic community of international professionals who are living and working in the city. The organization provides members with an array of resources, from networking opportunities to career advice. With a membership base consisting of people from all walks of life, the Bangkok expat network has something for everyone.
The group meets monthly at venues around the city and organizes social events and activities such as language classes, cooking classes, sports leagues, concerts and lectures on topics related to life in Bangkok. Members can also take advantage of discounts offered by local businesses that cater to expats. The organization also facilitates volunteer opportunities in which members can get involved with local charities or assist refugees in need.
One unique aspect of the group is its emphasis on professional development through peer mentorship programs. Through these programs, experienced professionals mentor those new to their industry or who are seeking guidance on how best to utilize their skillset within Thailand’s job market. The organization also hosts regular workshops covering various aspects of job search strategies tailored for expats looking for employment in Bangkok or elsewhere throughout Thailand.
British Club of Thailand
The British Club of Thailand (BCT) is an organization based in Bangkok that provides a wide range of services and activities for its members. The club was founded in 1964 to provide a community for expatriates from the United Kingdom living in Thailand. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most popular expat clubs and organizations in Bangkok, with over 700 members from more than 20 countries around the world.
Membership benefits include access to social events, sports tournaments, educational seminars, travel discounts and exclusive dining experiences at some of the city’s best restaurants. BCT also offers language classes and cultural activities such as cooking lessons, pottery workshops and art classes. In addition to these services, BCT runs an annual charity event that helps raise funds for various causes throughout Thailand.
Aside from providing networking opportunities among its members, BCT also serves as a platform for discussion on important issues facing expats living in Thailand today. Its committees are responsible for organizing events related to topics such as education reform, health care access and economic development within the country. Through these efforts, BCT strives to be a leader in promoting positive change among foreign nationals residing in Thailand.
American Women’s Association of Thailand
The American Women’s Association of Thailand (AWAT) is an organization based in Bangkok that provides social, cultural, and educational opportunities for expatriates. Founded in 1982, the AWAT has grown to become one of the largest expat clubs in the city with over 1,000 members from around the world. The club hosts a wide range of activities throughout the year including English classes, movie nights, fitness classes and other special events. AWAT also offers volunteer programs which give members a chance to give back to local communities by participating in community service projects such as beach clean-ups or teaching English at orphanages.
Membership fees are affordable and start at just 500 Baht per year for full access to all club benefits. With such low fees and many activities available each month, joining AWAT is an excellent way for new arrivals to Bangkok to make friends and explore their new home city while giving back to its people. Many former members have commented on how they were able to build lasting friendships through their involvement with AWAT that continues long after they leave Thailand.
It should be noted that although membership is open only to women aged 18 years or older who hold a valid passport from any country except Thailand; non-members can still attend certain activities such as lectures or seminars held by the association upon registration online or onsite prior to each event date.
German-Thai Chamber of Commerce
The German-Thai Chamber of Commerce (GTCC) is a prominent expat organization in Bangkok, which has been serving the local business community since 1954. Founded by a group of German and Thai businessmen, it is one of the oldest non-profit organizations in Thailand. GTCC provides support to companies with foreign investments and assists them in setting up their businesses in Thailand. It also serves as an important platform for international cooperation between Germany and Thailand.
As part of its mission to promote trade relations between the two countries, GTCC organizes regular events such as seminars, workshops and networking events. These activities help members learn more about current trends in international commerce, gain valuable insights into different industries and build professional relationships with other members. The chamber also provides comprehensive services such as advice on tax regulations, legal matters and visas for those who wish to start or expand their businesses in Thailand.
In addition to providing assistance for entrepreneurs looking to invest abroad, GTCC also offers internships for university students interested in gaining experience working within an international environment. By participating in these programs, interns are able to acquire skills that will be invaluable when they enter the job market after graduation. GTCC’s strong network of contacts can provide access to potential employers throughout Southeast Asia that may not be available through traditional job search channels.
French-Thai Chamber of Commerce
The French-Thai Chamber of Commerce (FTCC) is one of the most well-known and respected expat clubs in Bangkok. Founded in 1975, FTCC provides a range of services to members including business networking opportunities, support for entrepreneurs and access to professional advice. As an international organization with a focus on both French and Thai businesses, FTCC has grown into a strong network that connects individuals from all walks of life who are looking to do business in Thailand or abroad.
The FTCC’s core mission is to promote economic development between France and Thailand by helping facilitate business relationships between companies based in both countries. The chamber also offers its members exclusive discounts on travel, entertainment, legal assistance, educational courses and other products or services that can help them save money while doing business in Thailand. The FTCC regularly hosts events such as seminars, conferences and workshops aimed at providing valuable insights into different aspects of doing business in Thailand.
In addition to providing these types of resources for its members, the FTCC also organizes various initiatives aimed at promoting collaboration between French and Thai companies as well as encouraging trade between the two countries. This includes working closely with local universities to foster innovation within their student populations as well as participating in trade missions abroad where they provide potential investors with information about investment opportunities available in Thailand. Ultimately, this helps strengthen ties between France and Thailand while simultaneously increasing job prospects for citizens of both countries.
International Newcomers Network (INN)
The International Newcomers Network (INN) is a Bangkok-based organization that helps to connect expats from all around the world. It is designed to help newcomers transition into their new lives in Bangkok, offering support and advice as they settle into their new environment. INN provides an array of resources such as language classes, cultural activities, job opportunities, and social events for members.
In addition to its core mission of connecting people with one another, INN also works to promote understanding between different cultures by hosting forums and workshops on intercultural topics. The organization has developed a number of programs that are aimed at helping expats become more comfortable living in Thailand by providing them with access to relevant information about Thai culture and customs. Through these programs, participants learn how to effectively communicate with locals while also gaining insights into Thai etiquette and traditions.
Moreover, INN also offers a range of volunteer opportunities for expats who are looking for ways to give back to the local community. These volunteer roles include teaching English or other foreign languages, tutoring students from low-income backgrounds, participating in environmental conservation projects or working on health awareness campaigns. By volunteering through INN’s programs, expats can not only gain valuable work experience but can also contribute towards making positive changes in society.
Australian and New Zealand Association of Thailand (ANZAT)
The Australian and New Zealand Association of Thailand (ANZAT) is an organization established in Bangkok, dedicated to supporting expats from Australia and New Zealand living in the city. It was founded by a group of ex-pats who wanted to create a space for their compatriots to connect with each other and share experiences about life in the Thai capital.
ANZAT offers a variety of services that aim to make life easier for members, such as providing access to job opportunities, advice on visas and immigration matters, as well as organizing social events like barbecues or sports activities. They also have an active online presence through their website where they post news updates related to expat issues, as well as host forums where members can discuss topics relevant to them. ANZAT has partnered up with several businesses around Bangkok which offer discounts exclusively available for their members.
Membership is open to all citizens or residents of Australia or New Zealand living in Thailand and interested individuals can apply either online or offline at one of their many branches throughout the country. Aside from its main headquarters located in downtown Bangkok, ANZAT also operates satellite offices at key locations like Chiang Mai and Phuket Island. With its mission being “to foster unity among Australians & New Zealanders residing in Thailand” it’s no wonder why so many expats choose this association when looking for community support during their stay abroad.
Japan Business Association in Thailand
The Japan Business Association in Thailand (JBAT) is a non-profit organization that was established to promote and develop business relations between Japan and Thailand. Founded in 1965, JBAT provides support for Japanese companies operating in the country by providing advice on tax, legal, and labor issues as well as other matters related to setting up or expanding businesses in Thailand. JBAT assists with marketing activities such as organizing seminars, trade shows and other events to foster an understanding of business opportunities between the two countries.
Membership of JBAT is open to all those involved with trade and investment between Japan and Thailand including both Thai citizens who have lived or worked in Japan as well as Japanese nationals living or working in Thailand. The association also offers educational programs such as language classes for Japanese expatriates looking to improve their knowledge of Thai culture and language. It organizes social events like receptions at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador which offer members the opportunity to network with key players from both countries’ respective business communities.
In recent years JBAT has sought to expand its reach by forming partnerships with organizations based outside Bangkok; this includes links with regional chambers of commerce located throughout Thailand’s provinces that are focused on promoting local economic development projects. This initiative has resulted in increased collaboration between local entrepreneurs looking for new markets within Japan while allowing foreign investors access to investment opportunities closer home.
Singapore Thai Chamber of Commerce
The Singapore Thai Chamber of Commerce (STCC) is a well-known expat club and organization in Bangkok. Founded in the late 1980s, STCC has grown into one of the most prominent organizations for expatriates living in Thailand. With over 600 members from various countries and industries, STCC serves as an invaluable source of information and support for those looking to network with fellow foreigners.
One major benefit of joining the STCC is its extensive database of resources related to foreign business ventures. Members have access to directories of local businesses, contacts, market research reports, legal advice, and other essential services that can help entrepreneurs set up shop in Thailand. The chamber also organizes regular seminars and conferences on topics such as accounting practices, trade regulations, taxation laws, marketing strategies, immigration procedures, financial management tools etc. Allowing its members to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in international commerce.
In addition to providing useful information about doing business abroad, STCC also provides networking opportunities for expats who are interested in meeting like-minded people from different cultures. The chamber hosts regular social events where members can meet each other face-to-face or even virtually via their online platforms. These activities provide a great way for foreigners living in Bangkok to make new connections or collaborate on projects that could potentially lead to success back home or elsewhere around the world.
The Hash House Harriers
The Hash House Harriers (HHH) is an international running club with origins in Bangkok. Founded in the early 1930s, HHH started as a men’s only social club for British colonial expats and has since grown to include both men and women from around the world. The club is known for its unique combination of physical exercise, camaraderie, and good-natured revelry.
At each event, participants are divided into two teams: “the hares” who plan the route and set false trails; and “the hounds” who follow the trail while enjoying light-hearted banter along the way. Each run takes between 1-3 hours on foot or bicycle depending on terrain. As a rule of thumb, it’s considered “normal” if you get lost at least once during a run. The goal of each outing is simply to have fun while exploring new places in Bangkok – runners are encouraged to bring snacks for fuel along with them on their journey.
After completing a run, participants gather back at the starting point where they can enjoy food, drinks, music and more socializing – all before heading off to bed or other activities. For those looking for an interesting way to explore Bangkok while making new friends from different parts of the world – look no further than Hash House Harriers!
International Women’s Club of Bangkok
The International Women’s Club of Bangkok (IWC) is one of the most popular expat clubs and organizations in Bangkok. Founded in 1989, it has been providing a platform for professional women to connect, network and socialize with other like-minded people from around the world. The IWC organizes regular events such as educational seminars, charity fundraisers and get-togethers. It also provides an opportunity for members to meet local businesses who offer services that may be beneficial to them during their stay in Thailand.
In addition to its social activities, the IWC also plays an important role in helping international women adjust to life in Bangkok. It offers support through workshops on topics ranging from cross-cultural communication skills to language classes. These sessions are open to both members and non-members alike, providing valuable insight into the Thai culture and customs which can help newcomers feel more comfortable during their stay in the city.
The club also provides assistance with job searches, relocation advice and legal assistance when needed. Members have access to a variety of resources including job postings online as well as an active Facebook page which allows them to share experiences or seek advice from fellow members living abroad or those considering moving overseas permanently. They can join mentoring circles where they can gain insight into specific industries or professions while receiving guidance from experienced professionals living locally or remotely via Skype calls and emails exchanges.
International Schools Sports Tournament (ISST)
Organized by the International Schools Sports Tournament (ISST), an annual international sports tournament, expats in Bangkok have the opportunity to engage in competitive athletics against other teams from around the world. With several different divisions for each sport, there is something for everyone regardless of age or experience level. The ISST has been running since 1998 and continues to grow every year with more than 800 student athletes participating from over 30 countries worldwide.
The ISST offers a variety of sports including volleyball, basketball, track and field, soccer and swimming among others. Each season runs from August through April with tournaments held during the winter months between December and February. The events are hosted at various locations throughout Bangkok such as schools, universities or public parks. In addition to individual team events such as leagues or tournaments, some clubs also offer summer camps where participants can learn new skills while having fun with their peers.
At these events students will not only develop their physical abilities but they will also build relationships that can last a lifetime. The ISST provides an environment which allows them to work together as a team towards common goals while developing friendships along the way. Moreover, it gives young people from different backgrounds a chance to come together and share experiences that may otherwise never occur if left isolated within their own cultural bubbles back home.
Rotary Club of Bangkok
The Rotary Club of Bangkok is a non-profit organization that serves the expat community in Thailand’s capital. Founded in 1985, the club has been at the forefront of providing resources and services to its members, with a focus on socializing, networking and service projects. The club hosts regular events such as educational seminars, cultural activities, business forums and charity fundraisers.
The Rotary Club of Bangkok also provides support to other local organizations through their sponsorship programs. These programs offer financial assistance for projects such as building schools and libraries in impoverished areas of Bangkok or supporting small businesses owned by locals. They also provide opportunities for volunteers to get involved in local causes by working with charities or participating in awareness campaigns related to health issues.
In addition to sponsoring various initiatives around Bangkok, the Rotary Club of Bangkok plays an active role in promoting global peace initiatives throughout Southeast Asia. Through international collaborations between governments and organizations from different countries, they are able to help bring stability and security to troubled regions. They have participated in numerous conferences addressing topics like poverty alleviation and human rights violations across the region, advocating for solutions that benefit both local communities and global citizens alike.
The Royal Bangkok Sports Club
The Royal Bangkok Sports Club (RBSC) is a popular expat club and organization in Bangkok, Thailand. Founded in 1883, it is one of the oldest sports clubs in Southeast Asia. Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, RBSC offers its members a range of sports facilities and activities including tennis, badminton, squash, golfing and swimming.
The club also features two restaurants serving both Thai and international cuisine. The main dining room overlooks the river while the second restaurant serves traditional Thai dishes with views of Lumpini Park nearby. Members can also enjoy drinks at either bar within the premises or relax by the poolside terrace for an afternoon snack or light meal.
In addition to these amenities, RBSC provides special events throughout the year such as outdoor movie nights and summer BBQs which offer an opportunity for members to socialize with each other while enjoying some fun activities together. Other events include live music concerts and cultural performances that are open to everyone regardless of their membership status. These events often draw large crowds from all around Bangkok looking to experience something new and exciting during their stay in Thailand’s capital city.
Bangkok Toastmasters
Bangkok Toastmasters is a popular expat club and organization in Bangkok that offers its members the opportunity to develop their public speaking skills. The group provides an inclusive, friendly environment for learning and development. Each week, members come together to practice giving speeches, participate in activities designed to help build communication skills such as debating or storytelling, and offer support and encouragement for one another.
The club meets twice a month at venues throughout the city with each meeting having two parts: firstly, speeches given by members; secondly, educational sessions aimed at developing different aspects of communication such as body language or vocal variety. Members can also take part in Table Topics – impromptu talks on topics given by the Toastmaster of the day – which provide excellent practice for those wanting to hone their quick thinking abilities.
Bangkok Toastmasters has been running since 2008 and has grown steadily over time; it now boasts more than 50 active members from all walks of life. The club is open to anyone interested in improving their communication skills – whether they’re just starting out or looking for ways to refine existing expertise. Membership fees are reasonable and include access to exclusive online resources including training videos and helpful articles about public speaking techniques.
Chiang Mai Expats Club
The Chiang Mai Expats Club is a well-known expat organization in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai. Founded in 2009, the club serves as a resource for foreigners living and working in the city, providing access to social events and support services such as language classes and job referrals. The club also offers members exclusive discounts on local businesses and services, including restaurants, health clubs, travel agencies and more.
Chiang Mai Expats Club hosts monthly meetings where members can network with one another, discuss current issues affecting expatriates in Thailand, or simply catch up with old friends. The group also organizes regular outings to nearby attractions such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple or the Mae Sa Elephant Sanctuary. Members are invited to take part in volunteer activities around town such as helping out at local schools or animal rescue centers.
In addition to these activities, the Chiang Mai Expats Club provides an online forum for discussion about life abroad for expatriates living in Thailand. Members can ask questions about topics ranging from cultural differences to visa regulations to day-to-day experiences of life overseas. In this way, newcomers can get advice from experienced travelers who have already been through similar situations themselves – making their transition into a new country that much easier.
Phuket Expats Club
Phuket Expats Club is an organization founded by expatriates who have chosen to live and work in Phuket, Thailand. It was established in 2001 as a way for these individuals to connect with each other and form social bonds. The club has grown over the years, becoming one of the most popular destinations for international residents in Thailand.
The club’s mission is to provide its members with a safe and friendly environment where they can come together to share experiences, make friends, exchange information about their new home country, and even help newcomers adjust more easily into life in Phuket. To this end, the club organizes regular activities such as excursions, hikes, dinners and social events throughout the year that are designed to bring people together from all walks of life.
In addition to providing its members with a supportive network of fellow expats living in Phuket, the organization also serves as a source of useful information on local customs and laws related to working abroad. This includes tips on finding housing or obtaining visas; advice on dealing with cultural differences; resources for navigating bureaucratic red tape; and updates about current events affecting those living abroad in Thailand. The club also offers language classes for beginners which cover basic Thai conversation skills needed for daily life.
Hua Hin Expats Club
Hua Hin Expats Club is a popular expat club based in the beach town of Hua Hin, Thailand. The organization is dedicated to providing support and resources to foreigners living in the area. The club was founded in 2006 and since then has grown to include over 400 members from all around the world.
The mission of Hua Hin Expats Club is to provide information and services that will help expats with their transition into life in Thailand as well as helping them adjust to Thai culture. This includes providing advice on how best to integrate into the local community, finding employment opportunities, navigating bureaucratic procedures such as visa applications, obtaining health insurance coverage and more. They also organize social events such as sports tournaments, cultural exchange activities and even trips abroad for those who are interested.
In addition to these services, Hua Hin Expats Club also provides members with access to a variety of discounts at restaurants, hotels and shops throughout the city. They also have an active online forum where members can share stories about their experiences living in Hua Hin or ask questions about various topics related to life in Thailand or just general conversation amongst friends. With its wide range of activities and benefits available for its members it’s no wonder why this expat club has become so popular among foreign residents living in Bangkok.
Pattaya Expats Club
Pattaya Expats Club is a popular expat organization based in Bangkok, Thailand. Founded in 2012, the club provides support and resources to expatriates living in the region. The club’s mission is to provide an avenue for individuals to connect with each other and build meaningful relationships through shared interests and experiences.
The club offers members access to a range of activities such as networking events, language classes, fitness programs, cultural exchange trips, and more. Members also benefit from discounts on products and services at various outlets around Pattaya. The club runs regular seminars and workshops on topics related to living abroad including visa applications, health insurance coverage options, employment opportunities and more.
For those looking for more social activities, the club organizes weekly happy hours which are great for meeting new people or catching up with old friends over drinks. Monthly dinner parties provide an opportunity for members to dine together while discussing their respective countries’ cultures as well as any upcoming trips they may have planned. Finally – twice-monthly movie nights let members enjoy films from different parts of the world while learning about different cultures at the same time.
Samui Expats Club
Samui Expats Club is a popular expat club in Bangkok that provides social and professional networking opportunities to members. It was founded by a group of expats who were looking for an alternative way to meet other like-minded people, while enjoying the city’s nightlife and culture. The club has grown significantly since its inception and now boasts more than 500 active members from over 20 countries around the world.
The Samui Expats Club offers a range of activities for its members, including weekly meet-ups at various venues throughout the city, such as bars, restaurants and clubs. They also host regular events such as art exhibitions, film screenings, lectures and workshops. The club also organizes trips to nearby islands such as Koh Samui and Krabi where they explore local attractions while taking part in fun activities with other members of the group. The club arranges volunteering opportunities for those interested in helping out with projects around Bangkok or even overseas.
Members of Samui Expats Club have access to exclusive discounts on products and services offered by local businesses within the city limits which are usually not available to non-members. This includes discounted rates on gym membership fees as well as discounts on travel packages offered by tour operators operating within Bangkok or beyond Thailand’s borders. All members receive an annual subscription fee which allows them to enjoy additional privileges such as priority access to events hosted by the club itself or invitations to special functions organized exclusively for their benefit.