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Rating: 
Summary: Filled with details, a gripping read!
Review: I spent 9 months in Thailand in the Peace Corps many years ago, and visited the LOS again last May. I have started fantasizing about retiring there, so I bought "The Bangkok Survivor's Handbook" to add more fact to my fantasy. Most guidebooks are a struggle for me to read, but this one is such fun that I finished it in one sitting, interrupted only by supper.
It is definitely targeted at individuals who are considering living in Thailand for an extended period, rather than visiting as tourists, and where it is location-specific, it refers primarily to Bangkok, but there is still a wealth of detail on virtually everything one would need to know to move to Thailand for more than just a vacation. And based on my limited experience, RH did not make any claims or statements that I considered to be wrong or inaccurate.
Topics addressed include, but are not limited to, obtaining and renewing visas, finding and renting an apartment, obtaining medical care, work opportunities, shopping, dining, internet service, English-language schools [for English-speaking families with children], banks and transferring money, etc.
The most delightful aspect to TBSH however, is that the writing is very good. It flows smoothly, with a comfortable but not excessive level of humor, and I did not note any sentences that I had to read twice to make sense of them! It is reasonably current, having been published in January of 2003, and includes many web sites and e-mail addresses for those who want to learn more. Best in Class!!
Rating:
Summary: Excellent Information
Review: My wife and I are thinking of visiting Thailand, and a friend recommended we read this book. After reading the book, I would love to move there! It is obvious that Hein has spent a great amount of time in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand. His writing skill is excellent and keeps the reader interested and entertained at the same time. The book is chock-full of practical information (e.g. where you can teach English, who to contact for an apartment, local hospitals, etc...). In addition, the book also offers many vignettes of the friendliness of the Thai people, customs to be aware of, and how to get around the city. Although the author stresses that the book is mainly for people that plan on living in Bangkok, I would recommend it to anyone that is interested in visiting, or even just knowing a little bit more about the city.
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