Bangkok has made it to the top of Gen Z’s list of cities to live and travel to for so many reasons, but most importantly, for its happiness quotient.
One of the traits that has become a trademark of Gen Z is that they put higher value on experiences—something that they inherited from the only ever-so-slightly-older millennials. When it comes to deciding on what matters to them most, they will put things that make them the happiest at the top of their priority list.
And that includes the cities where they decide to travel to, or maybe even live in. TimeOut Magazine put this theory to the test in their annual ranking of the best places to live, but whittled down their parameters to the twenty-somethings who are reshaping the way the world lives. Not so surprisingly, it is the Asian capital of Bangkok that beat out the likes of Melbourne and New York City, and the reasons why may have something to do with the Asian way of life.
Related Story: 10 fun facts about Gen Z and millennial travelers in Asia Pacific
Related Story: Why Gen Z travels differently — and what it means for the industry
Let’s break this choice down for a minute. According to TimeOut, they took the data from their annual list and narrowed it down to respondents below the age of 30. From their answers, they added insight from their panel of experts, and found a beeline straight to the bustling city in the heart of Thailand. Honestly, it comes as no surprise, as the city is known for its vibrance and energy, amplified by the warmth of its people, and pretty much how affordable it is to live there. And then there is the food, which is so good even your diet goes on holiday. It isn’t hard to see why there is much to love about living the life in Bangkok.
Photos by Christian Valdes
One of the biggest deciding factors, it seems, is how happy they are to be living in Bangkok. For a generation that puts great importance on protecting their mental health, that is a big win. With moving to a different city being as stressful as it is, it is a game changer when people are the friendly sort, for which the Thais are known for, making for a softer landing in a new place. Much like Filipinos, wouldn’t you say? The affordability of life in the city, much like in most of Thailand, is a major plus point for 71 percent of 20- and 30-somethings, according to the same magazine survey.
The fact that Bangkok is the capital of one of Asia’s most culturally rich countries is a draw for most people , regardless of generation. In fact, almost anyone you ask who has never been to this part of the world will say they want to visit Thailand. From its lavish temples intricately carved in wood, gold, and stone and the Grand Palace, to its colorful floating markets, there is a lot to see and experience.
Shopaholics find themselves in a frenzy when stalls at the Chatuchak Weekend Market open, overflowing with intricately beaded skirts, bags, and all kinds of tchotchkes. While all that makes a visit to Thailand exciting, there is the food, considered to be among the best in the world, according to the likes of CNN, who included three Thai dishes in their list 50 Of The Best Street Foods in Asia. Thai food was also ranked 17th globally by TasteAtlas, for its flavorful and fragrant cuisine. Circling back to the younger set at the center of this story, TimeOut has also ranked Bangkok highly for its colorful nightlife scene. For the social media-savvy, there is no shortage of IG-worthy spots from one end of the city to the next.
Ranking second and third on the list are Melbourne and CapeTown, both known not only for their lush locales, but also for their rich art, culture, and food scenes. The people are lovely too.
As the ‘80s song goes, “One night in Bangkok, and the world’s your oyster…” Bangkok has found itself in a favored spot for a generation that is starting to carve their own path in the world. As Gen Z sets out to live every day where “carpe diem” is practically a daily affirmation, this colorful city in the heart of Asia is living it up right alongside them.
Related story: The coffee connoisseur’s guide to Melbourne’s specialty coffee spots
Related story: The globetrotter’s checklist for 2025
