A Budget Guide for International Students at Harbour.Space@UTCC Institute

Student blog — 23/12/2024

Welcome to the vibrant Bangkok and your exciting academic journey at the university. This guide equips you with essential tips to navigate the city’s hospitality costs, focusing on off-campus housing options near the university and exploring delicious yet budget-friendly food options. We’ll also delve into public transportation costs to help you get around the city.

Accommodation:

Since HSUTCC doesn’t have on-campus dorms, you’ll explore off-campus options. Here’s a breakdown of the main choices:

1. Off-Campus Dorms (Estimated Cost: ฿3,000+ per month):

Pros: Most affordable option, often with shared living spaces and amenities like laundry services and internet access.
Cons: Less privacy compared to apartments, can be noisy depending on roommates.
Finding Suitable Dorms:
- Contact Nearby Dorms: Research dorms near HSUTCC and contact them directly for specific pricing and availability.
- Consider Factors: Inquire about single vs. shared rooms, laundry services, internet access, air conditioning, and proximity to campus (including commute time).

Image source: Facebook – Omyim Dorm

2. Condominiums or Apartments (Estimated Cost: 5,000+):

Pros: Most privacy and freedom, wider range of amenities (gyms, swimming pools) may be available.
Cons: Typically the most expensive option. Finding short-term leases might be challenging.

PK Court Ratchada Soi 3
Image source: www.renthub.in.th/en/pk-court-ratchada-soi-3-new-rooms

Additional Costs:

Security Deposit: Many rentals in Bangkok require a security deposit, typically equivalent to one month’s rent. This deposit is usually returned upon move-out, minus any deductions for damages.
Utilities: Inquire about utility costs (electricity, water, internet) beforehand. Some rentals might include utilities in the advertised price, while others may require separate payment.

Finding the Right Fit:

Research & Compare: Don’t jump at the first option. Research various options, compare prices, amenities, and proximity to campus to find the one that best suits your budget and needs.
Location, Location, Location: While central locations offer convenience, exploring options further out can potentially lower your rent. Remember to factor in transportation costs (see below) when making your decision.

Public Transportation Costs:

Bangkok’s extensive public transportation system offers affordable ways to get around. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs (subject to change):

BTS Skytrain: Single journey tickets start from ฿16 (US$0.50) and increase based on distance. Consider purchasing a travel card for frequent rides (discounts available for students).

Image source: Bangkok Skytrain – Getting Around Bangkok – Go Guides

BTS Skytrain: Single journey tickets start from ฿16 (US$0.50) and increase based on distance. Consider purchasing a travel card for frequent rides (discounts available for students).

Image source: Bangkok MRT (Underground) – Your Guide to Bangkok Subway – Mass Rapid Transit – Go Guides

Buses: The cheapest public transport option, with fares typically ranging from ฿8-฿20 (US$0.25-US$0.60) depending on route and distance. However, journeys can be slower due to traffic congestion.

Image source: Transit in Thailand – WORLDWIDE – Canadian Public Transit Discussion Board

Tips for Saving on Public Transport:

Plan Your Trips: Plan your commute beforehand to minimize unnecessary transfers.

Food: Embracing Bangkok’s Culinary Delights on a Budget:

Bangkok is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vibrant street food scene alongside affordable restaurants and supermarkets. Here’s how to conquer Bangkok’s culinary landscape without breaking the bank:

Street Food Paradise (฿40-฿70 per meal): Immerse yourself in the heart of Bangkok’s culture with its iconic street food vendors. Explore the area surrounding Harbour.Space – popular areas like Sathorn or Silom offer a vast array of delicious and budget-friendly meals. Be adventurous and prioritize hygiene. Download a food translation app to navigate menus.

Image source: The Ultimate Bangkok Street Food Guide | CuddlyNest

University Canteen: HSUTCC likely has its own canteen offering affordable and tasty Thai dishes. This is a convenient option for quick meals between classes.
Supermarket Savvy (Estimated Cost: Varied): Stock up on groceries at local supermarkets like Tesco Lotus or Big C to explore your culinary creativity at home.

Healthcare Costs:

Health Insurance is Crucial: As an international student, you are not eligible for Thailand’s national healthcare system. Having valid health insurance is essential to cover any medical expenses you may incur during your stay.
Types of Hospitals: There are two main types of hospitals in Bangkok: public and private.
- Public Hospitals: Generally less expensive, but can be crowded and have longer wait times.
- Private Hospitals: Offer shorter wait times and more comfortable facilities, but come at a higher cost.

Estimated Hospital Costs (Private Hospitals):

It’s difficult to provide exact costs for hospital visits as they depend on various factors like:

Severity of Illness: A minor checkup will cost significantly less than a surgery or hospitalization.
Type of Treatment: Different procedures and medications have varying costs.
Hospital Choice: Private hospitals can have significant price differences.

Here’s a rough estimate for private hospitals:

Doctor’s Consultation: ฿1,000-฿2,000 (US$30-US$60)
Basic Tests: ฿500-฿2,000 (US$15-US$60) per test
Hospitalization (per night): ฿5,000-฿20,000+ (US$150-US$600+)

Tips for Managing Healthcare Costs:

Check your Insurance: Familiarize yourself with your health insurance policy’s coverage and any limitations. Understand deductibles, co-pays, and covered procedures.
Consider Public Hospitals: For minor illnesses, public hospitals can be a more affordable option. However, research wait times and potential language barriers beforehand.

In conclusion, your exciting academic journey at Harbour.Space@UTCC Institute awaits in vibrant Bangkok! This guide has equipped you with essential tips to navigate the city’s cost of living, from finding budget-friendly off-campus housing to exploring Bangkok’s delightful and affordable food scene. With the knowledge of public transportation options and healthcare considerations, you’re well on your way to settling in comfortably and making the most of your time in the Land of Smiles. Remember to embrace the adventure, prioritize your well-being, and enjoy all that Bangkok has to offer!

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