Serviced apartments for your first months

Many teachers spend their first one to three months in a serviced apartment, then move into a longer lease once they know the city and their commute.

Why start in a serviced apartment

A serviced apartment is furnished and managed by an operator. You can usually book for a month at a time, and some take shorter stays. That gives you time to learn which areas suit your school and routine before committing to a 12-month lease and a two-month deposit. If your school's start date or housing allowance is not settled, the flexibility helps too.

What is usually included

• furniture, kitchen equipment and linen
• housekeeping, often weekly
• internet
• a gym or pool in many buildings
• reception staff, who file the TM30 for you

Utilities may be included or billed separately. Ask.

Costs

Monthly rates are higher than the rent for a similar condo on a 12-month lease, because you are paying for services and flexibility. Rates normally fall with longer stays. Ask each operator for its monthly and three-month rates and what deposit it takes.

Example

Many serviced residences sit along Sukhumvit Road close to BTS stations, which suits teachers whose schools are on or near the Sukhumvit line. Teachers at schools in the suburbs may prefer to look for serviced apartments nearer the school.

Before you book

1. Check the travel time to your school at 7am on a weekday.
2. Confirm the minimum stay and the notice needed to leave.
3. Ask whether the building files TM30 and gives you the receipt.
4. Ask if long-stay rates apply after the first month.

When you are ready to move to a lease, see renting in Bangkok.

Written by the Charlie House editorial team. Last checked October 2026. Thai rules change often. Check with the school, the immigration office or the agency concerned before you act on anything here.