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Compare destinations and get practical help with schools, visas, healthcare, costs and leaving home. We date information that can change and link important claims back to their sources.

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You do not need to read the guides in order. Start with the decision you are facing now, then follow the related links when you are ready.

  • Country guides

    Compare Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia (Bali) and the Philippines, including cities, schools, visas, healthcare and costs.

    Browse destinations
  • Plan the departure side

    Use the worldwide family checklist, organise the home-side work and follow dedicated departure guidance for the UK, United States, Australia, Canada or Europe. Country-to-destination route guides connect the first four markets with Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bali and the Philippines.

    Plan the departure and route
  • Everyday family life

    See what everyday life can involve, from transport, food and shopping to payments, language, household help, culture and the changing seasons.

    Compare everyday life
  • Learning local languages

    Thai, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Balinese, Filipino and regional-language plans—before the move and after arrival.

    Explore the language guides
  • Culture, religion & etiquette

    Understand everyday etiquette at home, school, places of worship, invitations and festivals, including how to handle an honest mistake respectfully.

    Open the culture guides
  • Public holidays & celebrations

    Check official 2026 dates, lunar and local calendars, school and workplace differences, busy travel periods and family celebrations.

    Open the calendar guides
  • Adult community, sport & fitness

    Find gyms, clubs, running, swimming and racquet sports, with practical questions about location, membership, weather and fitting activities into family life.

    Open the active-life guides
  • Things to do with children

    Find museums, parks, cultural activities, nature, water activities and rainy-day ideas suited to different ages and family bases.

    Open the family activity guides
  • Everyday local services

    Research hairdressers, beauty and massage services, laundry, tailoring, repairs and household call-outs, including the checks worth making first.

    Open the local-service guides
  • Eating out with a family

    Compare restaurants, street food, food courts and delivery, with help for dietary needs, food hygiene, family bills and rainy days.

    Open the family dining guides
  • Family travel

    Plan family holidays, visits from relatives and pre-move research trips around sensible bases, local weather, entry requirements and manageable journeys.

    Plan family travel
  • Relocation scouting trips

    Use a pre-move visit to check schools, housing, healthcare and ordinary journeys, including how the area works in difficult weather or traffic.

    Plan a scouting trip
  • Safety, scams & emergency planning

    Emergency numbers, scam prevention and response, child and household safety, official hazard warnings, offline records and family reunification plans.

    Plan for safety and emergencies
  • Pharmacies, prescriptions & medicines

    Understand medicine-import and controlled-drug rules, find licensed pharmacies, check products and plan prescriptions and safe storage for the whole family.

    Plan your family's medicines
  • Pregnancy, maternity & newborn care

    Plan antenatal care, hospital choice, maternity insurance, neonatal care, newborn screening, birth registration, passports and immigration status.

    Plan pregnancy and newborn care
  • Weather, air quality & natural hazards

    Compare monsoons, air quality, flooding, typhoons, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes, including what to check for a particular home or area.

    Compare climate and hazards
  • Domestic help & nannies

    Understand how to hire cleaners, domestic workers, helpers and nannies legally and fairly, including contracts, costs and child-safeguarding checks.

    Compare domestic help
  • Family transport

    Compare school runs, public transport, cars and drivers, child restraints, driving documents, bad-weather alternatives and weekly costs.

    Compare family transport
  • Driving licences & car setup

    Check licence conversion or testing, International Driving Permits, car registration, insurance, child restraints and what can be arranged before moving.

    Open the country driving guides
  • Groceries & shopping

    Find supermarkets and wet markets, imported or allergy-specific food, local-language labels, halal checks and grocery delivery.

    Compare grocery shopping
  • Renting & setting up home

    Understand leases and deposits, check landlords and agents, arrange utilities and inspect home safety, weather readiness and move-in condition.

    Compare family rentals
  • Buying property & long leases

    Understand the ownership limits, lease structures, due-diligence checks, transaction costs and common sales claims families may encounter.

    Open the country property guides
  • Childcare, nurseries & preschool

    Compare nurseries, preschools and childcare providers, including official checks, safeguarding, staffing, daily care, annual costs and settling in.

    Compare early-years care
  • Leaving the UK

    HMRC, pensions, ISAs, NHS records and the decision to rent or sell your home, organised in the order families need them.

    Open the UK exit guide
  • Cost of living

    Build a realistic family budget that includes housing, healthcare and international school rather than leaving the largest costs out.

    Open the cost guide
  • City family budgets

    Compare realistic monthly and first-year budgets for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, Manila, Cebu, Dumaguete, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

    Open the city budget guides
  • Best places for families

    Compare 15 city and island bases for schools, housing, healthcare, climate, transport and the practical alternatives available when plans change.

    Compare family bases
  • Family neighbourhoods

    Compare school access, realistic journeys, rent, hospitals, parks, transport and seasonal risks across 12 family cities.

    Open the neighbourhood guides
  • International schools

    Curricula, fee ranges, admissions questions, locations and the school-first decisions that can reshape an entire move.

    Open the school guide
  • International schools by city

    Compare published tuition, joining costs, curricula, ages, admissions, learning support and school-journey implications in 11 family cities.

    Open the city school guides
  • Online schooling abroad

    Compare full-time online schools, home education and qualification routes, including recognition, exams, local rules, time zones and the family week.

    Explore online schooling
  • Family visas

    Compare visa options for parents and children, including eligibility, duration, renewals, financial requirements and official sources.

    Open the visa guide
  • Work permits & working abroad

    Separate residence from permission to work and check employer sponsorship, dependant rights, remote work, licensing, payroll and what happens when employment ends.

    Open the country work guides
  • Healthcare

    Compare private hospitals, children's care and insurance, with a closer look at what is actually available in the cities families choose.

    Open the healthcare guide
  • Dental care

    Find family, children's and specialist dental care, with guidance on provider checks, complex treatment, emergencies, insurance and follow-up care.

    Compare dental care
  • Destination tax

    Understand how residence, the source of income, overseas transfers, remote work and tax treaties can affect families in each destination.

    Open the destination tax guide
  • Bank accounts & local payments

    Research eligibility, documents, bank discretion, deposit protection, payment systems, cards, cash, authentication and international transfers.

    Open the country banking guides
  • Different family situations

    Plan around additional educational needs, teenagers, babies, mental health, culture shock, wills, guardianship and emergency authority.

    Explore family situation guides
  • Research & downloadable data

    Use SettleHappy's family cost index, international-school first-year cost tracker and family visa and spouse work-rights matrix.

    Explore research and data
  • Practical family relocation

    Use the downloadable checklist and plan shipping, pets, banking, driving, phones and internet in an order that works for your family.

    Open the practical moving guides

City research, connected

Choose a city, then compare the areas inside it

Each neighbourhood guide connects directly to the matching city overview, family budget, international-school comparison, renting, transport, healthcare and local-services directory.

Recently published

Latest guides

  • Thailand insurance

    Health insurance in Thailand for expat families (2026)

    Compare family health insurance in Thailand: local and international cover, hospitals, direct billing, deductibles, maternity, exclusions and evacuation.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Malaysia insurance

    Health insurance in Malaysia for expat families (2026)

    Compare family health insurance in Malaysia: local policies and takaful, international cover, private hospitals, direct billing, maternity and evacuation.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Vietnam insurance

    Health insurance in Vietnam for expat families (2026)

    Compare family health insurance in Vietnam: local and international cover, direct billing, deposits, maternity, exclusions and medical evacuation.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Indonesia insurance

    Health insurance in Indonesia and Bali for expat families (2026)

    Compare family health insurance in Indonesia and Bali: BPJS, local and international cover, co-payments, direct billing, maternity and evacuation.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • The Philippines insurance

    Health insurance in the Philippines for expat families (2026)

    Compare family health insurance in the Philippines: PhilHealth, HMOs and international cover, direct billing, maternity, exclusions and evacuation.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Bangkok

    Cost of living in Bangkok for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Bangkok family budget with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Hanoi

    Cost of living in Hanoi for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Hanoi family budget with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, help, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Ho Chi Minh City

    Cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City for families (2026)

    A realistic Ho Chi Minh City family budget for 2026 with rent, school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, help, setup and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Kuala Lumpur

    Cost of living in Kuala Lumpur for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Kuala Lumpur family budget covering rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, help, setup and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Metro Manila

    Cost of living in Manila for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic Metro Manila family budget for 2026 with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, help, setup and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Chiang Mai

    Cost of living in Chiang Mai for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic Chiang Mai family budget for 2026 with rent, school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, help, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Phuket

    Cost of living in Phuket for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Phuket family budget with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Penang

    Cost of living in Penang for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Penang family budget with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Da Nang

    Cost of living in Da Nang for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Da Nang family budget with rent, international school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Metro Cebu

    Cost of living in Cebu for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Cebu family budget with rent, international school, groceries, electricity, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Johor Bahru

    Cost of living in Johor Bahru for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Johor Bahru family budget with rent, international school, groceries, transport, healthcare, help, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Dumaguete

    Cost of living in Dumaguete for families (2026 budget)

    A realistic 2026 Dumaguete family budget with rent, school, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, childcare, setup costs and five-currency conversions.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Johor Bahru areas

    Best areas to live in Johor Bahru for families (2026)

    Compare Johor Bahru family areas by international schools, journeys, homes, hospitals, shopping, buses, flooding, border access and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Dumaguete areas

    Best areas to live in Dumaguete for families (2026)

    Compare Dumaguete family areas by schools, journeys, homes, hospitals, services, transport, flooding, storms and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Shipping

    Shipping belongings to Thailand

    How families can ship household goods to Thailand: customs relief, timing, inventories, restricted goods, insurance, port charges, storage and what to sell or bring.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Shipping

    Shipping belongings to Malaysia

    A family guide to shipping household goods to Malaysia, including customs exemption conditions, restricted goods, inventories, insurance, storage and destination charges.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Shipping

    Shipping belongings to Vietnam

    How families can ship household goods to Vietnam: moving-asset relief, status evidence, restricted goods, inventories, inspection, insurance and destination charges.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Shipping

    Shipping belongings to Indonesia and Bali

    A family guide to shipping household goods to Indonesia and Bali under PMK 25/2025, including customs relief, timing, restrictions, inventories and destination costs.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Shipping

    Shipping belongings to the Philippines

    How families can ship household goods to the Philippines: status-based duty privileges, inventories, regulated goods, inspections, port charges, storage and insurance.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Moving pets

    Moving pets to Thailand

    How to move a dog or cat to Thailand: DLD import permission, veterinary certificates, vaccinations, airline planning, quarantine risk, transit and arrival.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Moving pets

    Moving pets to Malaysia

    Move a dog or cat to Malaysia with clear guidance on MAQIS permits, DVS origin categories, microchips, vaccines, quarantine, breeds and arrival ports.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Moving pets

    Moving pets to Vietnam

    A family guide to taking dogs or cats to Vietnam, including the accompanied-pet route, export health certificate, vaccinations, airline rules and arrival checks.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Moving pets

    Moving pets to Indonesia and Bali

    Understand Indonesia's dog and cat import process, rabies evidence, quarantine, airline rules and why Indonesian entry does not grant permission to move a pet into Bali.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Moving pets

    Moving pets to the Philippines

    Move a dog or cat to the Philippines with clear SPSIC, microchip, vaccine, parasite-treatment, certificate, airline and arrival guidance for families.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Cebu schools

    International schools in Cebu: fees and comparison

    Compare international schools in Cebu by curriculum, ages, published fees, first-year charges, admissions, learning support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Johor Bahru schools

    International schools in Johor Bahru: fees and comparison

    Compare Johor Bahru international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 fees, first-year charges, admissions, support, buses and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Property ownership

    Can foreigners buy property in Thailand?

    A practical family guide to foreign property ownership in Thailand: condominiums, land restrictions, 30-year leases, nominee warnings, due diligence, fees and inheritance.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Property ownership

    Can foreigners buy property in Malaysia?

    A practical family guide to buying property in Malaysia as a foreigner: state consent, local thresholds, title checks, deposits, off-plan homes, costs and inheritance.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Property ownership

    Can foreigners buy property in Vietnam?

    A practical guide to foreign home ownership in Vietnam: eligible projects, ownership quotas, 50-year terms, land-use rights, deposits, off-plan checks and inheritance.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Property ownership

    Can foreigners buy property in Bali?

    A practical guide to foreign property rights in Bali: Hak Pakai, leases, Hak Milik nominee warnings, PT PMA companies, due diligence, costs and off-plan villas.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Property ownership

    Can foreigners buy property in the Philippines?

    A practical guide to foreign property ownership in the Philippines: condominium limits, land restrictions, leases, title checks, off-plan safeguards, costs and inheritance.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Worldwide family planning

    Moving abroad with a child who has special educational needs

    Plan an international move with a child who has special educational needs: school capacity, records, assessments, therapy, costs, access arrangements and transition.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Worldwide family planning

    Moving abroad with teenagers

    Help a teenager prepare for an international move: decision-making, school and qualifications, friendships, identity, wellbeing, online life and the first year abroad.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Worldwide family planning

    Moving abroad with a baby or preschooler

    Plan an international move with a baby, toddler or preschooler: healthcare, vaccinations, feeding, sleep, childcare, travel safety, documents and routines.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Worldwide family planning

    Family mental health and culture shock abroad

    Prepare family mental healthcare for an international move: culture shock, treatment continuity, insurance, telehealth, medication, children, crisis planning and support.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Worldwide family planning

    Wills, guardianship and emergency authority when moving abroad

    Organise wills, guardianship, parental responsibility, travel consent, powers of attorney and emergency authority before an international family move.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Chiang Mai areas

    Best areas to live in Chiang Mai for families (2026)

    Compare Chiang Mai family areas by international schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, daily life, smoky season, flooding and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Penang areas

    Best areas to live in Penang for families (2026)

    Compare Penang family areas by international schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, shops, transport, rain, haze and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Hanoi areas

    Best areas to live in Hanoi for families (2026)

    Compare Hanoi family areas by international schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, daily life, metro access, flooding, air quality and rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Phuket areas

    Best areas to live in Phuket for families (2026)

    Compare Phuket family areas by schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, shops, transport, monsoon risks and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Da Nang areas

    Best areas to live in Da Nang for families (2026)

    Compare Da Nang family areas by schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, shops, transport, typhoons, flooding and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Cebu areas

    Best areas to live in Cebu for families (2026)

    Compare Metro Cebu family areas by schools, realistic journeys, homes, hospitals, shops, transport, storms, flooding and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • Money transfers

    International money transfers when moving abroad

    Compare the amount delivered, exchange-rate mark-up, fees, limits, beneficiary checks, proof of funds and large family payments.

    Last verified: 11 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Banking

    Opening a bank account in Thailand

    A practical guide to opening and using a Thai bank account, including documents, bank discretion, PromptPay, cards, cash, transfers, tax declarations and deposit protection.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Banking

    Opening a bank account in Malaysia

    How to open and use a Malaysian bank account, including foreign-customer documents, bank discretion, DuitNow, cards, transfers, tax declarations and PIDM protection.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Banking

    Opening a bank account in Vietnam

    A family guide to Vietnamese bank accounts, foreign-resident documents, biometric checks, VietQR, NAPAS 247, transfers, tax information and deposit insurance.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Banking

    Opening a bank account in Indonesia

    How foreign residents can prepare for an Indonesian bank account, including bank discretion, documents, QRIS, BI-FAST, cards, tax declarations and LPS protection.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Banking

    Opening a bank account in the Philippines

    A practical guide to Philippine bank accounts for foreign residents, including documents, bank discretion, InstaPay, PESONet, QR Ph, cards, transfers and PDIC protection.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Work permits and working in Thailand

    A current guide to Thailand work permits, Thai employment, spouse rights, remote work, business activity, professional licensing, payroll and job changes.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Work permits and working in Malaysia

    A current family guide to Malaysia Employment Passes, dependant work rights, DE Rantau, overseas remote work, business activity, payroll and job changes.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Work permits and working in Vietnam

    A current guide to Vietnam work permits under Decree 219, employer sponsorship, spouse rights, remote work, business activity, licensing, payroll and job changes.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Indonesia

    Work permits and working in Indonesia

    A current guide to Indonesia's RPTKA work process, Bali employment, spouse rights, E33G remote work, foreign-owned businesses, payroll and job changes.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Work permits and working in the Philippines

    A current guide to Philippines Alien Employment Permits, 9(g) work visas, spouse rights, remote work, business activity, PRC licensing, payroll and job changes.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Driving and cars

    Driving licence and car setup in Thailand

    Research driving in Thailand as a foreign resident: licences and IDPs, Thai licence applications, buying and registering a car, insurance, child seats and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Driving and cars

    Driving licence and car setup in Malaysia

    Research driving in Malaysia as a foreign resident: foreign licences, IDPs and conversion, car ownership transfers, insurance, child seats and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Driving and cars

    Driving licence and car setup in Vietnam

    Research driving in Vietnam as a foreign resident: 1968 IDPs, licence conversion, car registration, compulsory insurance, child restraints and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Driving and cars

    Driving licence and car setup in Indonesia

    Research driving in Indonesia and Bali as a foreign resident: IDPs and Indonesian SIM licences, car registration, insurance, child seats, motorbike risks and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Driving and cars

    Driving licence and car setup in the Philippines

    Research driving in the Philippines as a foreign resident: the 90-day foreign-licence rule, LTO conversion, car transfer and registration, CTPL, child seats and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Bangkok areas

    Best areas to live in Bangkok for families (2026)

    Compare Bangkok family neighbourhoods by schools, realistic journeys, housing, hospitals, parks, transport, flooding, air quality and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Kuala Lumpur areas

    Best areas to live in Kuala Lumpur for families (2026)

    Compare Kuala Lumpur family areas by international schools, commutes, homes, hospitals, parks, rail, flooding, haze and indicative rent.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Metro Manila areas

    Best areas to live in Metro Manila for families (2026)

    Compare Metro Manila family areas by international schools, traffic, homes, hospitals, parks, services, transport, flooding and rent.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Ho Chi Minh City areas

    Best areas to live in Ho Chi Minh City for families (2026)

    Compare Ho Chi Minh City family areas by schools, journeys, homes, hospitals, parks, Metro Line 1, flooding, air quality and rent.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Chiang Mai schools

    International schools in Chiang Mai: fees and comparison

    Compare Chiang Mai international schools by curriculum, ages, 2026/27 tuition, first-year costs, admissions, support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Phuket schools

    International schools in Phuket: fees and comparison

    Compare Phuket international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 fees, first-year costs, admissions, support, campuses and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Da Nang schools

    International schools in Da Nang: fees and comparison

    Compare Da Nang international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 fees, first-year costs, admissions, support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Bangkok schools

    International schools in Bangkok: fees and comparison

    Compare international schools in Bangkok by curriculum, ages, 2026/27 tuition, first-year costs, admissions, support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Metro Manila schools

    International schools in Manila: fees and comparison

    Compare international schools in Manila by curriculum, ages, published fees, first-year costs, admissions, support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Kuala Lumpur schools

    International schools in Kuala Lumpur: fees and comparison

    Compare Kuala Lumpur international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 fees, first-year costs, admissions, learning support and commute.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Ho Chi Minh City schools

    International schools in Ho Chi Minh City: fees

    Compare Ho Chi Minh City international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 fees, first-year costs, admissions, support and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Penang schools

    International schools in Penang: fees and comparison

    Compare Penang international schools by curriculum, published fees, first-year costs, admissions, support, campuses and school transport.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Hanoi schools

    International schools in Hanoi: fees and comparison

    Compare Hanoi international schools by curriculum, 2026/27 tuition, first-year costs, admissions, support, buses and neighbourhood.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Connectivity

    Mobile plans, broadband and streaming in Thailand

    Compare Thailand SIMs, eSIMs, fibre broadband, home Wi-Fi and streaming-account changes for families moving to Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Connectivity

    Mobile plans, broadband and streaming in Malaysia

    Compare Malaysia mobile plans, fibre broadband, home Wi-Fi and streaming-account changes for families in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Connectivity

    Mobile plans, broadband and streaming in Vietnam

    Compare Vietnam SIMs, fibre broadband, home Wi-Fi and streaming-account changes for families in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Connectivity

    Mobile plans, broadband and streaming in Bali

    Compare Bali SIMs, Indonesian IMEI registration, fibre broadband, villa Wi-Fi and streaming-account changes for relocating families.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • 🇵🇭 Connectivity

    Mobile plans, broadband and streaming in the Philippines

    Compare Philippines SIM registration, mobile plans, fibre broadband, home Wi-Fi and streaming changes for families in Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • Southeast Asia

    Southeast Asia weather, air quality and natural hazards

    Compare Southeast Asia weather, monsoons, air quality, flooding, typhoons, earthquakes, tsunamis and other hazards before choosing a family base.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Thailand weather, air quality, monsoon, flooding and natural hazards

    Thailand family weather guide: monsoons, PM2.5 and smoke, Bangkok flooding, Chiang Mai air quality, Phuket seas, landslides, earthquakes and tsunami risk.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Malaysia weather, air quality, monsoon, flooding and natural hazards

    Malaysia family climate guide: northeast and southwest monsoons, haze and API, Kuala Lumpur floods, Penang slopes, Johor rain, landslides and seismic risks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Vietnam weather, air quality, monsoon, flooding and natural hazards

    Vietnam family climate guide: Hanoi and HCMC seasons, central coast typhoons, PM2.5, floods, landslides, storm surge, heat and official warnings.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Bali weather, air quality, monsoon, flooding and natural hazards

    Bali family climate guide: wet and dry seasons, PM2.5, flooding, landslides, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, ash, extreme waves and address checks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Philippines weather, air quality and natural hazards

    Philippines family climate guide: rainy season, Habagat, typhoons, flooding, storm surge, landslides, earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunami and air quality.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Southeast Asia

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in Southeast Asia

    Plan pregnancy and birth in Southeast Asia: antenatal handover, maternity hospitals, insurance, NICU, newborn screening, registration, passports and visas.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in Thailand for expats

    Thailand pregnancy and birth guide for expat families: antenatal handover, maternity hospitals, insurance, NICU, newborn screening and birth registration.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in Malaysia for expats

    Malaysia pregnancy and birth guide: antenatal care, private maternity hospitals, insurance, NICU, newborn screening and JPN birth registration.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in Vietnam for expats

    Vietnam pregnancy and birth guide: antenatal handover, maternity hospitals, insurance, newborn screening, birth registration, passport and newborn visa.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in Bali for expats

    Bali pregnancy and birth guide: antenatal care, maternity hospitals, emergency transfer, insurance, newborn screening and Indonesian birth registration.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care in the Philippines for expats

    Philippines pregnancy and birth guide: maternity hospitals, antenatal care, insurance, NICU, expanded newborn screening and PSA birth registration.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Regional

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in Southeast Asia

    Family guide to pharmacies and prescription medicines in Southeast Asia: personal-import rules, controlled drugs, genuine products, refills, storage and child dosing.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in Thailand

    Thailand pharmacy and prescription guide for families: 30-day personal medicine rule, narcotic and psychotropic permits, Thai FDA searches, refills and storage.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in Malaysia

    Malaysia pharmacy and prescription guide: one-month personal medicines, dangerous-drug declaration, NPRA product checks, refills, cold chain and child dosing.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in Vietnam

    Vietnam pharmacy and prescription guide: Decree 163/2025 personal medicine rules, controlled-drug limits, DAV product checks, refills, fakes and storage.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in Bali

    Bali pharmacy and prescription guide: Indonesia BPOM baggage limits, 90-day prescriptions, psychotropic and narcotic rules, product checks and cold chain.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Pharmacies, prescriptions and medicines in the Philippines

    Philippines pharmacy and prescription guide: customs limits, PDEA controlled medicines, FDA verification, local refills, island supply and child medicine safety.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Regional

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in Southeast Asia

    A family guide to safety in Southeast Asia: emergency numbers, common scams, road and home risk, disaster warnings, insurance and an offline response plan.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in Thailand

    Thailand family safety guide covering 191, 199, 1669 and 1155, road and rental scams, floods, PM2.5, home safety and emergency planning.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in Malaysia

    Malaysia family safety guide covering MERS 999, NSRC 997, Semak Mule, floods, haze, home and road safety, and emergency planning.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in Vietnam

    Vietnam family safety guide covering 112, 113, 114 and 115, road and payment scams, floods, typhoons, home safety and emergency planning.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in Bali

    Bali family safety guide covering 112, 110 and 119, villa and road safety, financial scams, earthquakes, tsunami, volcano and emergency planning.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Safety, scams and emergency planning in the Philippines

    Philippines family safety guide covering Unified 911, CICC 1326, typhoons, floods, earthquakes, volcanoes, scams and emergency planning.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Regional

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to Southeast Asia

    Plan a family relocation scouting trip to Southeast Asia that tests schools, homes, healthcare, journeys, costs and ordinary life before committing.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to Thailand

    Plan a Thailand relocation scouting trip that tests Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket schools, housing, healthcare, air, floods and family journeys.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to Malaysia

    Plan a Malaysia relocation scouting trip across Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Johor Bahru, testing schools, homes, hospitals, floods and real family routes.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to Vietnam

    Plan a Vietnam relocation scouting trip across Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi or Da Nang, testing schools, housing, hospitals, air, floods and family routes.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to Bali

    Plan a Bali relocation scouting trip across Sanur, Canggu and Ubud, testing schools, villas, hospitals, road time, permits and climate risks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Plan a relocation scouting trip to the Philippines

    Plan a Philippines relocation scouting trip across Metro Manila, Cebu or Dumaguete, testing schools, homes, hospitals, hazards and real family routes.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Regional

    Family travel in Southeast Asia

    Plan family travel in Southeast Asia with realistic routes, weather windows, transfer buffers, entry checks and child-friendly bases across five destinations.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Family travel in Thailand

    Plan family travel in Thailand with realistic Bangkok, northern, Andaman and Gulf routes, TDAC checks, seasonal comparisons and transfer buffers.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Family travel in Malaysia

    Plan family travel in Malaysia across Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, the east coast and Borneo, with MDAC, monsoon and operator checks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Family travel in Vietnam

    Plan family travel in Vietnam across the north, centre and south with realistic routes, e-visa checks, regional weather and transfer buffers.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Family travel in Bali

    Plan family travel in Bali with realistic coast and Ubud routes, All Indonesia and tourist-levy checks, road-time evidence and weather buffers.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Family travel in the Philippines

    Plan family travel in the Philippines with realistic island clusters, eTravel checks, typhoon buffers, accredited operators and protected flights.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Eating out with a family in Thailand

    A practical guide to eating out with children in Thailand: family dining formats, food safety, allergies, halal and vegetarian checks, bills and delivery.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Eating out with a family in Malaysia

    Family dining in Malaysia: hawker centres, kopitiams, food courts and restaurants, with halal, allergy, vegetarian, bill and neighbourhood checks.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Eating out with a family in Vietnam

    How families can research restaurants, street food, allergies, vegetarian meals, bills and delivery in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Bali

    Eating out with a family in Bali

    A family guide to warungs, cafes and restaurants in Bali, including halal verification, allergies, vegetarian food, bills, delivery and location choice.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Eating out with a family in the Philippines

    Family dining in the Philippines: restaurants, carinderias, food courts, allergies, halal checks, bills, delivery and city-by-city planning.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Everyday local services in Thailand

    How families can find and check hairdressers, beauty and massage services, laundries, tailors, repairs and other everyday local services in Thailand.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Everyday local services in Malaysia

    A family guide to hairdressers, salons, massage, laundries, tailoring, repairs and everyday local services in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Everyday local services in Vietnam

    How families can research salons, massage, laundries, tailoring, phone repair and everyday local services in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Bali

    Everyday local services in Bali

    A practical guide to salons, spas, laundries, tailoring, repairs and everyday local services for families living in Canggu, Sanur or Ubud, Bali.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Everyday local services in the Philippines

    How families can research salons, spas, laundries, tailoring, repairs and everyday local services in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Things to do with children in Thailand

    Family activities in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket: museums, parks, wildlife, beaches, culture and indoor fallbacks, with practical age and access checks.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Things to do with children in Malaysia

    Family activities in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru: science centres, museums, parks, rainforest, theme parks and rainy-day planning.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Things to do with children in Vietnam

    Family activities in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang: parks, museums, crafts, beaches, nature and weather-proof planning by age.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Bali

    Things to do with children in Bali

    Family activities in Sanur, south Bali, Canggu and Ubud: beaches, water parks, culture, wildlife, nature and respectful pre-booking checks.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Things to do with children in the Philippines

    Family activities in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete: free museums, parks, heritage, marine days, indoor fallbacks and typhoon-aware planning.

    Last verified: 31 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Adult community, sport and fitness in Thailand

    How adults can find gyms, sports clubs, running, swimming, Muay Thai, racquet sports and a repeatable community in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Adult community, sport and fitness in Malaysia

    Gyms, municipal sports complexes, running, swimming, badminton, racquet and members clubs for adults in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Adult community, sport and fitness in Vietnam

    Adult gyms, running, cycling, swimming, football, racquet and fitness communities in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang, with practical membership checks.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Adult community, sport and fitness in Bali

    Adult gyms, social clubs, padel, tennis, yoga, running, surfing and fitness communities in Canggu, Sanur and Ubud, with membership and corridor checks.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Adult community, sport and fitness in the Philippines

    Adult gyms, running, basketball, badminton, padel, swimming and sports communities in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete, with access and membership checks.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Public holidays and celebrations in Thailand

    Thailand's 2026 public holidays and family celebrations: Songkran, Buddhist days, royal and civic dates, school and bank-calendar differences, closures and travel planning.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Public holidays and celebrations in Malaysia

    Malaysia's 2026 federal and state public holidays, school and employer calendars, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, travel and family planning.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Public holidays and celebrations in Vietnam

    Vietnam's 2026 public holidays and family celebrations: Tết, National Day, Reunification Day, Hùng Kings, school and employer closures, travel and practical planning.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Public holidays and celebrations in Bali, Indonesia

    Plan around Bali and Indonesia's 2026 public holidays, collective leave, Nyepi, Galungan, Kuningan, local ceremonies, school closures and family travel.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Public holidays and celebrations in the Philippines

    Philippines 2026 regular holidays, special non-working days, Eid proclamations, local fiestas, school calendars, Holy Week, Christmas and family travel planning.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Culture, religion and etiquette in Thailand

    A practical family guide to Thai culture, Buddhism, Islam, wai greetings, temples, homes, schools, festivals, saving face and recovering politely from mistakes.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Culture, religion and etiquette in Malaysia

    Family guide to Malaysian culture, Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, multicultural etiquette, Ramadan, open houses, temples, homes and state differences.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Culture, religion and etiquette in Vietnam

    Family guide to Vietnamese culture, ancestor practices, Buddhism, Christianity, temples, homes, schools, Tết, age, face, gifts, dining and regional differences.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Culture, religion and etiquette in Bali

    Family guide to Balinese Hindu culture, temples, offerings, ceremonies, Nyepi, banjar and desa adat life, respectful dress, photography and everyday etiquette.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Culture, religion and etiquette in the Philippines

    Family guide to Filipino culture, Catholicism, Islam, other faiths, family and community values, fiestas, homes, schools, respect language, hospitality and regional variation.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Learning Thai in Thailand

    Learn Thai before and after moving to Thailand: tones, script, family vocabulary, Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket course options, tutor checks and realistic study plans.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Learning languages in Malaysia

    A family guide to learning Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and understanding English and Chinese varieties in Malaysia, with courses in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Learning Vietnamese in Vietnam

    Learn Vietnamese before and after moving to Vietnam: tones, northern and southern speech, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang courses, tutors and family plans.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Learning Indonesian and Balinese in Bali

    Learn Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese before and after moving to Bali: BIPA courses, tutors, family language priorities, cultural context and realistic plans.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Learning Filipino and local languages in the Philippines

    Learn Filipino, Cebuano and other Philippine languages as an expat family, with Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete options, school context and practical plans.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Childcare, nurseries and preschool in Thailand

    Research nurseries, daycare and preschool in Thailand: provider categories, OPEC school checks, staff and safeguarding evidence, hours, fees and family bases.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Childcare, nurseries and preschool in Malaysia

    Compare TASKA childcare and TADIKA preschool in Malaysia, official registration checks, the 2026 preschool curriculum, fees, safeguarding and city access.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Childcare, nurseries and preschool in Vietnam

    Research nursery and preschool in Vietnam: current licensing, independent early-years groups, staff deployment, bilingual care, fees and HCMC, Hanoi and Da Nang.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Childcare, nurseries and preschool in Bali

    Research childcare and preschool in Bali: Indonesia's PAUD categories, official NPSN records, TK, KB and TPA differences, safety, fees and locations.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Childcare, nurseries and preschool in the Philippines

    Research childcare, Child Development Centers and kindergarten in the Philippines under RA 12199, including permits, DepEd transition, fees and city access.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Renting and setting up a home in Thailand: family guide 2026

    Research family rentals in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket: leases, deposits, TM30, utilities, condo rules, mould, flooding, pool safety and move-in evidence.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Renting and setting up a home in Malaysia: family guide 2026

    Research family rentals in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru: tenancy agreements, stamp duty, REN checks, strata rules, deposits, utilities, flooding and handover.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Renting and setting up a home in Vietnam: family guide 2026

    Research family rentals in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang: landlord authority, bilingual leases, temporary residence, utilities, flooding, damp and move-in evidence.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Renting and setting up a home in Bali: family guide 2026

    Research long-term Bali rentals: landlord authority, Indonesian-language leases, villa licensing, foreigner reporting, water, power, internet, pools, mould and flood risk.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Renting and setting up a home in the Philippines: family guide 2026

    Research family rentals in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete: 2026 rent control, leases, broker checks, condo rules, fire and occupancy evidence, hazards and utilities.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Dental care in Thailand for expat families: 2026 guide

    Research family dentists, paediatric dentistry, orthodontics, dental emergencies and treatment in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket, with official Thai licence checks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Malaysia

    Dental care in Malaysia for expat families: 2026 guide

    Compare family dentistry, paediatric dentists, orthodontics and dental emergencies in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru, with Malaysian registration checks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Vietnam

    Dental care in Vietnam for expat families: 2026 guide

    Research dentists, paediatric care, orthodontics, treatment and dental emergencies in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang under Vietnam's current licensing law.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Bali

    Dental care in Bali for expat families: 2026 guide

    Plan family dentistry, paediatric care, orthodontics and dental emergencies in Denpasar, Sanur, Canggu and Ubud, with Indonesian STR and SIP checks.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Philippines

    Dental care in the Philippines for expat families: 2026 guide

    Compare family dentists, paediatric care, orthodontics and dental emergencies in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete, with PRC licence verification.

    Last verified: 1 September 2026
  • Thailand

    Supermarkets and grocery shopping in Thailand: family guide (2026)

    Plan family grocery shopping in Thailand: supermarkets, wet markets, imported and allergy-specific food, Thai labels, halal verification, delivery and city differences.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Supermarkets and grocery shopping in Malaysia: family guide (2026)

    Compare supermarkets, wet markets, halal verification, imported and allergy-specific food, delivery and family grocery shopping in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Supermarkets and grocery shopping in Vietnam: family guide (2026)

    Plan grocery shopping in Vietnam: markets, supermarkets, Vietnamese labels, imported and allergy-specific food, delivery, food safety and city differences.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Supermarkets and grocery shopping in Bali: family guide (2026)

    Plan supermarket and grocery shopping in Bali: local markets, imported food, Indonesian labels, halal verification, delivery, island supply and family-area differences.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Supermarkets and grocery shopping in the Philippines: family guide (2026)

    Compare supermarkets, palengke, sari-sari stores, imported and allergy-specific food, labels, delivery and family grocery shopping in Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Family transport in Thailand

    Plan family transport in Thailand: Bangkok rail, school buses, taxis, drivers, cars, child seats, driving documents and realistic routines in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Family transport in Malaysia

    Compare family transport in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru: rail, buses, school transport, e-hailing, driving, child restraints and complete weekly costs.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Family transport in Vietnam

    Research family transport in Vietnam: HCMC and Hanoi metros, buses, school transport, taxis, cars, child restraints, motorcycle exposure and weather fallbacks.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Bali

    Family transport in Bali

    Plan family transport in Bali: school corridors, Trans Metro Dewata, cars and drivers, taxis, scooters, child-seat evidence, licensing and Nyepi disruption.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Family transport in the Philippines

    Plan family transport in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete: rail, school services, cars, drivers, taxis, child restraints, motorcycles and typhoon fallbacks.

    Last verified: 30 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Domestic help and nannies in Thailand

    How families can research cleaners, domestic workers and nannies in Thailand, including legal status, working-time protections, contracts, safeguarding and true employer costs.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Domestic help and nannies in Malaysia

    Research domestic helpers, cleaners and nannies in Malaysia: the expatriate foreign-maid pass route, contracts, employer duties, safeguarding and full costs.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Domestic help and nannies in Vietnam

    A detailed family guide to hiring domestic workers and nannies in Vietnam, including written contracts, duties, rest, insurance payments, safeguarding and recruitment.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Bali / Indonesia

    Domestic help and nannies in Bali

    How families should hire domestic workers, housekeepers and nannies in Bali under Indonesia's new 2026 domestic-worker protection law, with contracts and safeguarding.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Domestic help and nannies in the Philippines

    A detailed guide to hiring a kasambahay or yaya in the Philippines: contracts, regional wages, rest, 13th-month pay, social protection and safeguarding.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Everyday life in Thailand for families

    What everyday family life in Thailand is really like: getting around, shopping, payments, language, household help, holidays and city differences in 2026.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Living in Malaysia with children: everyday family guide

    What is family life in Malaysia like? Explore transport, food, shopping, payments, languages, household help, public holidays and differences between the main cities.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Everyday life in Vietnam for families

    What family life in Vietnam is like in 2026: transport, food, shopping, cashless payments, Vietnamese language, Tết, weather and city differences.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Bali

    Everyday life in Bali for families

    A practical 2026 guide to family life in Bali: transport, villas, food shopping, payments, language, ceremonies, Nyepi and location differences.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Everyday life in the Philippines for families

    A detailed guide to everyday family life in the Philippines: English, transport, malls and markets, QR payments, household help, holidays and typhoon resilience.

    Last verified: 29 August 2026
  • Ho Chi Minh City

    Living in Ho Chi Minh City with a family: areas and schools (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Ho Chi Minh City areas, international schools, paediatric hospitals, Metro Line 1, flooding, fees and a downloadable research checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Hanoi

    Living in Hanoi with a family: areas, schools and air quality (2026)

    A family guide to Hanoi areas, international schools, hospitals, metro lines, PM2.5, 2026/27 fees, weather and a downloadable research checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Da Nang

    Living in Da Nang with a family: areas, schools and healthcare (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Da Nang neighbourhoods, international schools, private healthcare, typhoons, flooding, airport access and a downloadable checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Sanur

    Living in Sanur with a family: schools, areas and healthcare (2026)

    A practical family guide to Sanur housing zones, Bali Island School, hospitals, bypass access, flooding, tsunami readiness and a downloadable checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Ubud

    Living in Ubud with a family: schools, areas and healthcare (2026)

    A family guide to Ubud and Gianyar areas, school corridors, healthcare escalation, traffic, landslides, mould and a downloadable research checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Canggu

    Living in Canggu with a family: schools, traffic and areas (2026)

    A family guide to Canggu, Berawa, Pererenan and Umalas: school fees, healthcare routes, traffic, flooding, construction and a downloadable checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Metro Manila

    Living in Metro Manila with a family: areas and schools (2026)

    A detailed family guide to BGC, Makati, Ortigas and Alabang, with international school fees, paediatric hospitals, traffic, floods and a PDF checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Cebu

    Living in Cebu with a family: areas, schools and healthcare (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Cebu City, Banilad, Mandaue and Mactan, with international schools, hospitals, bridge traffic, hazards and a PDF checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Dumaguete

    Living in Dumaguete with a family: schools and healthcare (2026)

    A practical family guide to Dumaguete, Valencia and Sibulan, covering schools, hospitals, specialist transfers, floods, utilities and a PDF checklist.

    Last verified: 27 August 2026
  • Bangkok

    Living in Bangkok with a family: areas, schools and healthcare (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Bangkok neighbourhood corridors, international schools, private hospitals, BTS and MRT access, flooding, PM2.5 and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Chiang Mai

    Living in Chiang Mai with a family: schools, smoke and areas (2026)

    A family guide to Chiang Mai neighbourhoods, international schools, paediatric care, road travel, smoke season, housing checks and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Phuket

    Living in Phuket with a family: areas, schools and hospitals (2026)

    A detailed guide to living in Phuket with children: north, central and south corridors, international schools, hospitals, traffic, rain, housing and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Kuala Lumpur

    Living in Kuala Lumpur with a family: areas and schools (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley areas, international schools, hospitals, rail, traffic, flood resilience, fees and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Penang

    Living in Penang with a family: areas, schools and care (2026)

    A detailed family guide to Penang areas, international schools, private hospitals, buses, island traffic, rain, hillside homes, fees and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Johor Bahru

    Living in Johor Bahru with a family: areas and schools (2026)

    A family guide to Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri and Medini: international schools, hospitals, Singapore crossings, the RTS Link, housing and a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Practical relocation

    Moving to Southeast Asia with children

    Build a family move around status, school, home, health, money, transport and emotional continuity—not a flight date alone.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • PDF checklist

    Family relocation research checklist for Southeast Asia

    A pre-departure sequence from feasibility to a protected landing, with a lightweight research checklist and downloadable PDF.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Shipping

    Shipping belongings to Southeast Asia

    Decide what to sell, store, fly or freight; compare five country customs routes and uncover the charges missing from a headline shipping quote.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Pet relocation

    Moving pets to Southeast Asia

    Plan permits, health certification, airline carriage and arrival controls, with detailed country routes and the separate restrictions that apply to Bali.

    Last verified: 12 September 2026
  • Banking

    Banking and money in Southeast Asia

    Keep reliable access to home and local currency, prepare the documents needed to open an account and compare statutory deposit protection.

    Last verified: 10 September 2026
  • Driving

    Driving in Southeast Asia

    Match the licence, IDP, vehicle class, insurance and resident conversion route across all five destinations before taking the keys.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Connectivity

    Mobile phones, internet and streaming in Southeast Asia

    Keep home-country authentication working while comparing destination SIMs, proving home broadband and moving streaming and app-store accounts safely.

    Last verified: 2 September 2026
  • 🇹🇭 Thailand

    Tax in Thailand for international families

    A factual 2026 guide to Thai tax residence, foreign-income remittances, remote work, overseas pensions, treaty relief, filing and family evidence.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • 🇲🇾 Malaysia

    Tax in Malaysia for international families

    A 2026 guide to Malaysian tax residence, employment source, foreign-sourced income, double-tax relief, filing and family records.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • 🇻🇳 Vietnam

    Tax in Vietnam for international families

    A factual guide to Vietnam tax residence, worldwide income, remote work, employment tax, treaty relief, filing and arrival-year planning.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • 🇮🇩 Bali, Indonesia

    Tax in Bali for international families

    A 2026 guide to Indonesian tax residence in Bali, the rolling 183-day test, intention to reside, worldwide income, remote work and treaty relief.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • 🇵🇭 the Philippines

    Tax in the Philippines for international families

    A factual guide to Philippine resident-alien tax, income source, the 180-day nonresident rule, remote work, filing and treaty relief.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Regional tax

    Tax in Southeast Asia for international families

    Compare residence, foreign-income scope, remote work and treaty relief across five destinations, with a PDF adviser-briefing checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Treaty relief

    UK–Southeast Asia double-tax treaties

    Apply residence tie-breakers, income articles, tax credits and certificates across the five in-force UK agreements.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Remote work

    Remote-work tax in Southeast Asia

    Connect individual tax, payroll, permanent establishment, immigration and employer approval before moving the laptop.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Thailand health

    Healthcare in Thailand for expat families: hospitals and insurance (2026)

    Plan family healthcare in Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket hospitals, paediatrics, insurance, direct billing, emergency number 1669 and medical evacuation.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Malaysia health

    Healthcare in Malaysia for expat families: hospitals and insurance (2026)

    Plan family healthcare in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor hospitals, emergency number 999, paediatrics, insurance and direct billing.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Vietnam health

    Healthcare in Vietnam for expat families: hospitals and insurance (2026)

    Plan family healthcare in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang hospitals, emergency number 115, insurance, direct billing and evacuation.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Bali health

    Healthcare in Bali for expat families: hospitals and insurance (2026)

    Plan family healthcare in Bali: private hospitals, paediatrics, emergency numbers 119 and 118, insurance, direct billing, rabies and medical evacuation.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Philippines health

    Healthcare in the Philippines: hospitals and insurance (2026)

    Plan family healthcare in the Philippines: Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete hospitals, emergency number 911, insurance, direct billing and island evacuation.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Health insurance

    International health insurance for expat families

    Compare territories, hospitals, direct billing, deductibles, exclusions, maternity, mental health and evacuation—with a PDF research checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Emergency planning

    Medical evacuation in Southeast Asia

    Understand how local stabilisation, insurer approval, transport, a receiving hospital and an accompanying parent fit together.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Best places to live in Thailand for families (2026)

    Compare Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket for family life, including international schools, private healthcare, commuting, air quality, flooding and neighbourhood search areas.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Best places to live in Malaysia for families (2026)

    Compare Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor for families: schools, private hospitals, transport, neighbourhood corridors, airport access and Singapore-border realities.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Best places to live in Vietnam for families (2026)

    Compare Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang for families, including schools, healthcare, metro access, pollution, flooding, severe weather and neighbourhood corridors.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Bali

    Best places to live in Bali for families (2026)

    Compare Sanur, Ubud and the Canggu area for families, including schools, hospitals, traffic, housing inspections, wet-season risks and airport access.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Best places to live in the Philippines for families (2026)

    Compare Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete for family life, including schools, private hospitals, traffic, island connections, natural hazards and neighbourhood corridors.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Southeast Asia

    Best places for families in Southeast Asia

    Compare 15 family bases across Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Bali and the Philippines by schools, healthcare, movement and resilience.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Thailand visas

    Thailand family visas: routes for international families (2026)

    A researched guide to Thailand family visas in 2026, including DTV, Non-ED, employment and LTR routes, dependants, work rights and school status.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Malaysia visas

    Malaysia family visas: MM2H, DE Rantau and work routes (2026)

    Compare Malaysia family visa routes in 2026: MM2H tiers, DE Rantau and employment passes, with dependants, work restrictions, capital and renewals.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Vietnam visas

    Vietnam family visas and residence routes (2026)

    A factual guide to Vietnam family residence in 2026: e-visas, employer sponsorship, work permits, temporary residence cards, investment and dependants.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Bali visas

    Bali family visas: Indonesia routes and codes (2026)

    A current guide to moving to Bali with children: Indonesia's E33G remote-worker, E30A student, E31 family and Second Home routes, with work limits.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Philippines visas

    Philippines family visas: SRRV and other routes (2026)

    Compare Philippines family visa routes in 2026: SRRV Classic, visitor extensions, 13(a), employment and investment, with dependants and work rights.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Southeast Asia visas

    Digital nomad visas for families in Southeast Asia

    Compare Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines for remote work, dependants, school status and time horizon.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Southeast Asia visas

    Dependant visas and spouse work rights in Southeast Asia

    Check spouse and child status separately, compare work and study permissions, and avoid common family-visa assumptions.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Thailand schools

    International schools in Thailand: a family guide (2026)

    Compare international schools in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket: curricula, published fee benchmarks, admissions, safeguarding, support and school-run planning.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Malaysia schools

    International schools in Malaysia: a family guide (2026)

    Compare international schools in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor: British, IB and American routes, current fee benchmarks, admissions and full-cost planning.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Vietnam schools

    International schools in Vietnam: a family guide (2026)

    Compare schools in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang, with curricula, published fees, admissions, support and a complete first-year cost checklist.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Bali schools

    International schools in Bali: a family guide (2026)

    Compare international schools in Bali across Sanur, Ubud and Canggu, with curriculum, current fee examples, admissions, support and journey planning.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Philippines schools

    International schools in the Philippines: a family guide (2026)

    Compare international schools in Metro Manila, Cebu and smaller Philippine cities, including curricula, fee benchmarks, admissions and transport planning.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • School planning

    British vs IB vs American curriculum

    Compare structure, qualifications, transfers and verification checks before choosing an international-school pathway.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • School planning

    How to choose an international school

    A ten-step due-diligence process covering curriculum, accreditation, safeguarding, support, fees and the school run.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Thailand

    Cost of living in Thailand for families (2026)

    A realistic Thailand family budget for 2026, including international school, housing, transport, healthcare and first-year relocation costs in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Malaysia

    Cost of living in Malaysia for families (2026)

    A realistic 2026 Malaysia family budget covering school fees, housing, transport, healthcare and first-year costs in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Vietnam

    Cost of living in Vietnam for families (2026)

    A realistic Vietnam family budget for 2026, including international school, housing, transport and healthcare in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Bali

    Cost of living in Bali for families (2026)

    A realistic 2026 Bali family budget covering international school, villas, transport, healthcare and first-year costs in Sanur, Ubud and Canggu.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Philippines

    Cost of living in the Philippines for families (2026)

    A realistic 2026 Philippines family budget including international school, housing, transport and healthcare in Metro Manila, Cebu and Dumaguete.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026
  • Southeast Asia

    How to build a Southeast Asia family budget

    Build a relocation budget that includes school, first-year setup, currency risk, healthcare and a protected return reserve.

    Last verified: 26 August 2026

The publishing standard

What you can expect from every guide

Each guide should answer the main question, explain the important trade-offs, link to useful sources and leave your family with a clear next step.

Read our editorial approach
  1. Answer first.The main conclusion appears before the supporting detail.
  2. Primary sources.Rules and fees link to the authority or provider responsible for them.
  3. Dates on volatile facts.Visa, tax, fee and route information shows when it was checked.
  4. Realistic family costs.Budgets include major expenses such as international school and healthcare.

Common questions

How the guide library works

How do you research SettleHappy guides?

We start with primary sources: government and immigration websites, official tax authorities, school fee pages, healthcare providers and published transport information. Secondary sources are used for context and cross-checking, not as a substitute for the issuing authority.

How often are guides updated?

Each guide carries a visible Last verified date. We review a guide when an important source changes and during the wider review of related country pages. A new date is only added after the underlying information has actually been checked.

Are these guides immigration or financial advice?

No. They provide information, comparisons and organisational help. Immigration, tax, investment and legal decisions can depend on individual circumstances, so relevant pages identify where a regulated or locally qualified professional is appropriate.

Why are some cost figures ranges rather than averages?

Averages can hide the choices families control, particularly school and city. A range is more useful when the lower and upper ends are explained clearly and dated.

Can international readers use the guides?

Yes. Destination information is written for families worldwide. Departure rules vary by origin country, so we separate universal planning from country-specific guidance and make the scope of each example clear.

A more useful price view

Which currency would you like to see?

We can show SettleHappy planning figures in the currency that is most useful to you.

This changes approximate planning conversions and the representative origin used for journey and time-zone examples. Local prices and contracts stay in their original currency. You can change it in the header at any time.

Before you go

Take the family move checklist with you

A practical PDF to help you research schools, visas, healthcare, housing and moving day in a sensible order.

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