• 
• 

Published on July 29, 2007

Expats rejoice, "The Bangkok Guide: The Essential Guide to Living in Bangkok" or, to those who know it, simply "The Guide", put together by the Australian-New Zealand Women's Group (ANZWG) is now on the nation's bookshelves.

This newest edition - the 17th to be compiled by the group - is the latest in a line of publications that goes back 36 years.

Since it's inception in 1972 by Susan Critchley, wife of the then Australian ambassador, as a free informational pamphlet handed out to those registering with the embassy, "the Guide" has helped countless newcomers settle into Thailand's rich and sometimes confusing culture.

The guide has come a long way from those information sheets, developing over the years into a sturdy 400-page book, put together by a team of 160 women editors and writers and covering everything from housing to health, to restaurants and dentists, as well as schools and shopping.

It's far more than a "Lonely Planet" guide designed for transitory visitors. The "Bangkok Guide" caters to individuals and families planning to settle in Bangkok and its environs for an extended period.

The book claims to be the bible for both old and new residents, a statement that is not too far from the truth. For those who use it, it is an indispensable resource and is often given out by companies to arriving expat staff.

On the first read, the book helps newcomers settle in and locate "those most important places". Once those missions have been accomplished, it's time to explore the new ideas on how to get the most out of living in Bangkok.

The guide is divided into 13 sections, beginning with the basics of Thai life and continuing on to detailed reviews of schools, apartment, markets healthcare services and other daily necessities.

It includes a list of restaurants with short reviews as well as recommended catering firms and places to throw birthday parties for the kids.

The Guide also introduces newcomers to Thai history, culture, politics, rules and regulations and even includes a section dealing expressly with how to cope with culture shock.

"Bangkok is a fascinating city, full of culture, diversity and new experiences," says the ANZWG's Bangkok Guide project manager Trichia Balmer.

It is something that people arriving can see and feel, and yet at the same time, it can be a little daunting."

The book strives to alleviate Bangkok's more daunting aspects so new residents can appreciate their exciting, new surroundings and ease into their new lives.

The introduction to section of the book is penned by women who know the ropes and their calm wisdom and experience are a must for anyone after have for a smooth transition to the Thai lifestyle.

As Balmer explains "Our members have shared their personal experiences to make this Guide the most practical and up-to-date source with an extraordinary range of information.

"It is intended to make living in this amazing metropolis simper, cheaper and more accessible."

What make this book even more unique are the causes it supports. As the book's production is funded by the advertisements sprinkled throughout its pages, ANZWG donates proceeds from the Guide to various charities around Thailand.

These include the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer, Presentation Sister's in Klong Toei and Rejoice, relief projects for children with HIV/Aids, training for women to generate their own income and various educational organisations and schools.

Just two copies of the Guide buy enough powdered milk for one child for a week and seven copies fund a child through 12 months of school.

As ANZWG's president, Jill Whitelaw explains, "We all love living in this amazing country. The proceeds from the sale of the Bangkok Guide is our way of giving back to society."

The newest edition also sports a map of Bangkok and greater Bangkok and a mini telephone directory, which includes a section on survival Thai.

The guide is priced at Bt750 and is available at lead bookstores.

Emily Norris

The Nation