Thailand best for global expat community

Thailand is the number one expat destination when compared globally across economic and lifestyle factors taking the top spot from Bahrain in 2010.

The findings show that Thailand is the number one expat destination when compared globally across economic and lifestyle factors taking the top spot from Bahrain in 2010.

Surprisingly, some countries which have experienced significant difficulties in the past 12 months still rank well in terms of expat finances and experience, with Egypt taking the second spot in the overall league table, followed by Saudi Arabia.

Now in its 4th year the 2011 Expat Explorer surveyed 3,385 expats from over 100 countries and covers every aspect of life overseas from managing finances and the economic benefits of relocating, to lifestyle issues and raising children abroad.

The full results of the 2011 survey will be released in late November with new countries such as Egypt, Brazil and Turkey making their first appearance in the Expat Explorer league tables.

The report will look in detail at some new expat trends such as:

•     Despite the economic uncertainty in 2010, expats remain fairly optimistic about the economic outlook in the country where they live. Despite this optimism only 64% of expats intend to stay in their current country compared to 87% in 2010.

•     The economic benefit of becoming an expat: In 2011 63% of expats report having more disposable income since relocating compared to 56% in 2010.

•     Language barriers are becoming less problematic for expats with only 27% reporting this as an issue compared to 30% in 2010.

•     In 2011 expats are less concerned about feeling lonely and missing their friends and family with only 31% reporting this in 2011, compared to 34% in 2010.

Lisa Wood, head of marketing at HSBC Bank International, said: “We’re extremely excited about the upcoming launch of our 2011 Expat Explorer findings. We’ve seen some pretty major global events in the past year, from economic turmoil to widespread political and social unrest and it will be interesting to see how expats have been affected.

“For those looking for the best overall expat experience, our findings this year show Thailand as the top expat destination, being ranked as number one by our expats for ease of organising healthcare, finding accommodation and the work environment. Last year this destination was ranked highly as a retirement hotspot so it’s great to see the country develop in terms of its economic appeal.

“The Expat Explorer survey is not only an interesting resource for existing and future expats, but also acts as an important tool for our business. It’s something we’re extremely proud of and provides us with the knowledge and expertise to tailor our products and services more effectively to our customers’ needs.”