Proposed location: Bangkok, Thailand
Why is Bangkok, Thailand is the best place to host Devcon VII? Convince us 
[High level overview]
Answer the following questions to see if your suggested city matches our key criteria to host the next Devcon:
Country and Entry
1. What are the visa restrictions for the country?
Thailand has few visa restrictions for entry into the country. Visitors from many countries can obtain a visa on arrival or through electronic visa application, making it easy for attendees to travel to the conference.
- Visa exemption for citizens of many countries
- Easy electronic visa for many countries
Resources:
2. How easy is the international access?
Suvarnabhumi International Airport offers direct flights from major cities around the world
Good public transportation system including skytrain, subway, and buses
Resources:
https://www.bangkok.com/information-travel-around/transportation.htm
3. What about the safety and political stability of the region?
Thailand has a stable political climate and is considered a safe destination for travelers. The country has a low crime rate and a well-developed infrastructure to support tourism.
- Thailand has a low crime rate and is generally safe for tourists
- Political stability has improved in recent years
Resources:
4. How expensive are venue rent, accommodation, food, and transport?
Thailand is an affordable location to organize and attend a conference like Devcon. The cost of living and accommodations are relatively low compared to other major cities in the region, making it an attractive location for attendees.
Transportation is relatively inexpensive with public transportation options and ride-hailing services
Accommodation, food, and other expenses are generally affordable compared to Western countries
Resources:
5. What is the climate during Q3/Q4?
Tropical climate with average daily highs of around 30ºC (86°F) and nighttime lows around 23ºC (74°F)
City and Venue
1.How easy is the transportation in the city (between venues, airport, etc.)?
Bangkok has a well-developed public transportation system including skytrain, subway, and buses
Thailand has an excellent transportation system that makes it easy for attendees to travel both internationally and locally in the city. Bangkok is a major transportation hub, with several international airports and a well-connected public transportation system.
2. Are there modern venues (WiFi/Maneuverability/Catering)?
Thailand has modern venues with the capacity to host between 5-10k+ people. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, has several venues that meet this criterion, including the IMPACT Exhibition Center, the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, and the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
3. Are there venues with the capacity to host between 5-10k+ people?
MPACT Exhibition Center, the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, and the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
4. What are attractions in or around the city?
Temples, night markets, and street food
Shopping malls and entertainment venues
Beautiful beaches and national parks within a few hours’ drive
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, offers a lot of attractions for developers who attend Ethereum Devcon. Some of the attractions that are in close proximity to the city center and easily accessible include:
Cultural Attractions: Bangkok is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore a range of cultural attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun, and the Jim Thompson House.
Nightlife: Bangkok is known for its lively nightlife, with a range of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants that cater to all tastes. The city has a vibrant party scene that can be a great way for developers to unwind after a day of conference sessions.
Food: Thai cuisine is renowned for its flavors and variety. Bangkok has a range of street food stalls and restaurants that offer authentic Thai dishes as well as international cuisine.
Shopping: Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of shopping malls, markets, and boutiques that offer everything from high-end luxury brands to local handicrafts.
Nature and Parks: Bangkok has several parks and green spaces that provide a respite from the bustling city. Lumphini Park, for example, is a large park in the city center that offers jogging and cycling paths, as well as outdoor fitness classes.
In summary, Bangkok offers a range of attractions that developers can explore in their free time during Ethereum Devcon. From cultural attractions to nightlife and shopping, the city has something to offer for everyone.
Ethereum community and Impact
1. How does the Ethereum community look like in this region (e.g.: existing large community/ small but growing rapidly, etc.)?
Thailand has a small but growing Ethereum community with active meetups and events
Ethereum Bangkok is a local community that hosts regular events and hackathons
2. What is the potential of Ethereum to have an impact in that region?
Thailand has a large unbanked population, and Ethereum-based solutions could provide financial services to those who are excluded from the traditional banking system
Blockchain technology is gaining traction in Southeast Asia, and Devcon in Bangkok could promote wider adoption of Ethereum in the region
3. How is hosting Devcon in that city benefiting the Ethereum ecosystem?
Hosting Devcon in Thailand would offer several benefits to the Ethereum ecosystem, including:
-
Connecting with the growing Ethereum community in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Thailand has a growing Ethereum community with several Ethereum-related events and meetups happening regularly. By hosting Devcon in Thailand, Ethereum can strengthen its presence in the region, engage with the local community, and build partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
-
Showcasing the potential of Ethereum in the region. Southeast Asia is home to many emerging economies and has a growing population of tech-savvy young people who are open to new technologies. By hosting Devcon in Thailand, Ethereum can showcase the potential of its technology in the region, inspire local entrepreneurs and developers, and foster innovation.
-
Boosting tourism and the local economy. Thailand is a popular tourist destination, and hosting Devcon there could attract thousands of visitors from around the world. This could boost the local economy, create jobs, and promote Thailand as a hub for innovation and technology.
-
Promoting cultural exchange. Thailand has a rich and diverse culture that is famous around the world. By hosting Devcon in Thailand, Ethereum can promote cultural exchange between attendees and locals, foster mutual understanding and respect, and showcase the best of Thai hospitality.
In summary, hosting Devcon in Thailand would benefit the Ethereum ecosystem by connecting with the growing Ethereum community in the region, showcasing the potential of Ethereum in Southeast Asia, boosting tourism and the local economy, and promoting cultural exchange.
Concerns and Downsides
Every location has its pros and cons. It’s important to also consider the potential downsides.
- What are possible risks?
At this moment, In Thailand we will have a PM2.5 day randomly. Someday the air is healthy or unhealthy. Since Devcon will happened in Q3/Q4 which is a rain season, then the PM2.5 issue will be better than Q1/Q2.
- What could be the downsides?
Traffic in BKK can be bad. Devcon attendees are encouraged not to travel across the city during rush hour. I recommend to host Devcon at a place near BTS or MRT.
Additional Information
I, Kevin will be AFK from 14 to 15 March. Thai Community will post additional info in other post within this forum.
Please add any extra information you want.
The Devcon team wants to say thank you to everyone here who helped evaluate Thailand as the host country for Devcon 7, and especially the communities that drafted the initial proposals!
BTW: The Road to Devcon is ongoing, and if you’re local, community-driven, and want to organize a meetup or educational initiative, check out the Road to Devcon grants: 