Bangkok Housing Estates

So-called 'moo bans' (villages) are planned suburban neighborhoods, and perhaps the closest thing to wholesome 'white picket fence' living as you can possibly find in Bangkok . Popular among expatriate families, as well as middle class Thai families, these are located on the city's outskirts and often next to transport links or expressways.

Out of the thick of things, life in these may not be as exciting or glamorous as living in a central city apartment, but what they lack in sophistication, they more than make up for with space, cleanliness and good old-fashioned peace and quiet. With shared facilities like tennis courts and swimming pools, 'moo bans' also emanate a warm community feel, an endearing feature if you're fed up with being a member of the faceless city-centre masses.

Unsurprisingly, the tranquility and safety mean that families with children like to opt for this type of housing, but do beware, commuting into central Bangkok can take up considerable time.