Thailand is no exception when it comes to urbanization

Many foreigners’ perceptions of Thailand are of a tropical paradise- white sand beaches, lush forests and colourful fruits. This mental image does exist, but what is becoming more and more common for many Thais is living in an urban environment.

A study conducted by Thammasat University has shown that today over 50% of Thai nationals now live in cities. Part of the sudden increase can be attributed to the government rezoning city limits and accounting for unregistered residents. Nonetheless, this shift is part of a global trend.

A UN report stated that 3.3 billion people will live in urbanized areas in 2008. Another part of the jump in Thailand is the number of foreign workers that are now in the country; their numbers have doubled between 2002 and 2006.

This can certainly affect a country’s culture, and Yongtanit Pimonsathean of Thammasat University told the Bangkok Post, "The increasing number of foreign workers, especially the young urbanites, has brought about the awareness of the different way of life and living traditions.�

The growing urban population in Bangkok has had its casualties as well. The growing number of urban poor is cause for concern, and the UN Population Fund has urged Thailand and other developing Asian nations to address this growing problem.