Ruffian Dick
American expat in Thailand
Forum posts
356
Contacts
3
About me
American, Married with children
Lives in Chiang Mai
Speaks English, a bit of Japanese and French, working on Thai.
Registration: 15 March 2017
Want to know more about living in Chaing Mai. by Wulf Lin
How big is the Singaporean expat community in Chiangmai Mai, what is the average cost of living, also about housing.
Numbeo is a good start: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/compare_cities.jsp?country1=Thailand&country2=Singapore&city1=Chiang+Mai&city2=Singapore&tracking=getDispatchComparison Read More
What's changing in Thailand after the COVID-19 crisis by Veedushi
Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well. As the Editorial Team of Expat.com, our aim is to provide you with fresh and up-to-date information about the COVID-19 crisis in your host country. You might be expecting a lot of changes following the ...
I'm not sure if any country is truly "post-COVID19" yet. Read More
The lessons of the crisis in Thailand by Loïc
Hello everyone, While there is still a certain amount of uncertainty in our lives, the situation seems to be beginning to change in Thailand and globally. We have had to show courage, tenacity and even ingenuity in many areas, in the way we ...
Well, I've learned I'm not bored easily. And some people's patience is not as broad as they think. :) I gotta say, that I am proud of the way that the Kingdom has handled this plague. Read More
Chiang Mai : Would love any advice on a good area to live
HI Hoistman. I'm currently living in Mae Hia, which is south of the old town on 108, a mile or so to the south. It's much less congested here, we have a variety of shopping opportunities, easy to get to things, etc. The airport's very ... Read More
Chiang Mai air pollution by GuestPoster5892
Hi, we are planning to pick Chiang Mai as our retirement city, but heard the city is covered by heavy smog EVERY YEAR between the months of March and April, if it is true, is this a big issue for the local residents ? how serious is the air ...
It depends on how sensitive you are to a bit of smog. If you grew up in LA in the 60's for instance, you might feel right at home, although the smoke is sourced mostly thru forest fires. Read More
Retiree for Chiang Mai? by Janehunt
Hi, I live on the Gold Coast and am a retiree in Australia, thinking seriously of coming to Chiang Mai to retire so I would love to hear from anyone who has done the big shift! I will be making a trip there just after Christmas, and it would be ...
Hello, I've been quiet on this board for a long time. I've been living retired in Chiang Mai for at least two years now, and I love it. Read More
Eyeglasses by Falangette
Help ! Does anyone know what happened to Vision Center on Rathviti Rd ? We drove by yesterday and it looked closed for good !!! They are the BEST for glasses prescriptions .
It’s open. I just went there. I got a pic but can’t upload. Read More
Patio (terrace) furniture
I'm not sure what you mean by "European (US) standard". I picked up a table and two chairs at Baan and Beyond. Perfectly acceptable. Remember that these are probably built in the same factory in China as the furniture you buy in the ... Read More
Retirement visa by Pete152
Do i need a permanent address in Thailand to put on my Retirement visa for Canberra or can i just put my hotel address? Also whats rhe best method of finding a condo in Thailand given that i cant speak Thai.
You should have a TM30. Use the address on that. Read More
Receiving a package from the uk to Chiangmai by Pstonex
Hi all, I’ve just moved to Chiangmai and will be staying here for 6 months. This week I was planing to purchase a new laptop, but ideally I do need an English keyboard so I am planning to have one shipped from the uk to Chiangmai. My dad has ...
Most hotels will receive mail. Have you looked at laptops in Thailand? I don't see any lack of "English" (QWERTY) keyboards. Another way to do it, is if there is someone visiting, they can bring the laptop as checked luggage or ... Read More
Eyeglasses by Falangette
Help ! Does anyone know what happened to Vision Center on Rathviti Rd ? We drove by yesterday and it looked closed for good !!! They are the BEST for glasses prescriptions .
I was there just recently! Maybe before you were there, obviously. :? They actually sold me a pair of contacts that were terrible; I shouldn't blame them though. Later I took my prescription to a place at the Airport Plaza Mall and I found ... Read More
Living cost
Try this: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Pattaya Read More
Bringing pets to Thailand by RDMTULSA
My wife & I will be relocating and retiring in Chiang Mai in March 2019. We will bring our pet dog (Labrador Retriever). Are there any exPats in Chiang Mai who have relocated their pet(s) from the USA to Chiang Mai?
I arrived with my cat. We didn't use any service. I got a ticket with Korean Air, since I understood I could bring him into the cabin with me. But no, he was too FAT and needed to be stowed in the baggage hold. It's not really the baggage ... Read More
Haggling prices in markets
It doesn't hurt to ask, especially if you make the offer in a playful mood. Read More
"Too much load will kill you" by Dalas Pearl
Now what? I have been here in Thailand for almost 5 months now and I am still on my adjustment period. This has been my dream before to experience teaching abroad and tries how to live away from my family. So far Im still holding on but over the ...
I wouldn't be afraid of losing a job that stresses me out and makes me miserable. There are lots of jobs out there. Read More
Thai bank
I brought my landlord and lease agreement. Bank of Bangkok here in Chiang Mai. Seriously. They asked for voucher from a Thai citizen. It worked out fine for me. Read More
Postal Service in Chiang Mai
Well, looks like you have had as much experience with the mail in Bangkok as I have in CM (without a hitch btw), so I'm not sure how much I can help, especially since I've never lived in Bangkok. But I will say that it's important and ... Read More
Using foreign licence in Thailand by Sammydavis0424
I haven't read any recent posts in regards to the subject of using foreign drivers licence in Thailand but as I can tell you that if your country is included in the UN treaty then as a tourist your are fine. Your insurance of any type will not ...
Nithin, who asked you? Which embassy? Returning to the original question about foreign (home country) driver's licences, usually people get their international driver permits (IDL) from their home country before they leave. If you get here ... Read More
List of Prohibited Jobs for westerners in Thailand by LuisF
For all those who are keen on working in Thailand, be aware that there is a list of jobs were, you, as a westerner will not be able to get a work permit. The List is taken from The Thai Labor Department Website -http://www.mol.go.th/- 1.- Labour ...
Yes, please, let us waste our lives on more pedantry. Read More
What would you bring with you to Thailand? by Rickjoy
Moving from Australia to Thailand what possessions would you bring with you? Or is it cheaper to buy whatever you need there?
A big jar of ibuprofen, if you need it for health and comfort. The Thai pharmacies seem negative about it. Read More
Motorbike recommendation by themorn2112
Greetings all, I will be Moving to Thailand around the end of Summer. My first task upon arriving will be to purchase a Motorbike. I am a Large person (184.5 cm, 120 kg; 6', 270 lbs). I will mostly commuting around the city (Chiang Mai), ...
I haven’t seen any Kawasaki bikes in town. Read More
Motorbike recommendation by themorn2112
Greetings all, I will be Moving to Thailand around the end of Summer. My first task upon arriving will be to purchase a Motorbike. I am a Large person (184.5 cm, 120 kg; 6', 270 lbs). I will mostly commuting around the city (Chiang Mai), ...
Good point. Many step thrus have a little hook for tung pratik. Some have a little bench for a baby. And you can actually steer with your knees. Read More
Ex-Pat life in Thailand - Chiang Mai - Are there dangers? by MSimpkins
My name is Matt and I am seriously considering moving to Thailand / Chiang Mai. I am starting dialog with many people. some good and some negative. I will need to have work so I can sustain living, but I am looking to re-connect with myself. ...
With all due respect, a weekly massage needn’t be a budget busting indulgence, at least not here. I just scored an excellent traditional legit Thai massage for 200THB. Read More
Motorbike recommendation by themorn2112
Greetings all, I will be Moving to Thailand around the end of Summer. My first task upon arriving will be to purchase a Motorbike. I am a Large person (184.5 cm, 120 kg; 6', 270 lbs). I will mostly commuting around the city (Chiang Mai), ...
Got my eyes on a Honda PCX right now. Read More
Which one first? by Ruffian Dick
So I'm here in Chiang Mai Thailand, and here are a few things I want to accomplish before long: 1. Buy a motorbike. 2. Apply for a retirement visa. 3. Rent a house. Now it looks as though the retirement visa and the bike buying are easier if I ...
I've lived in "apartment" type dwellings, and one thing drives me crazy is that no matter where I go, there's always a hippo upstairs insisting on practicing ballet at all hours of the night. ;) I'd rather pay a little extra ... Read More
Which one first? by Ruffian Dick
So I'm here in Chiang Mai Thailand, and here are a few things I want to accomplish before long: 1. Buy a motorbike. 2. Apply for a retirement visa. 3. Rent a house. Now it looks as though the retirement visa and the bike buying are easier if I ...
I checked out a gorgeous house in Hang Dong, close to Central Plaza, Tesco and Big C. I'm excited about it! And I hope my cat enjoys it too. Read More
Ex-Pat life in Thailand - Chiang Mai - Are there dangers? by MSimpkins
My name is Matt and I am seriously considering moving to Thailand / Chiang Mai. I am starting dialog with many people. some good and some negative. I will need to have work so I can sustain living, but I am looking to re-connect with myself. ...
To be honest, of course Thai traffic is dangerous. That's on a world scale. If you are disturbed by air pollution, at least northern Thailand may be difficult for you. The people are very nice, but they have their faults (generalizing greatly ... Read More
25 days in Chiang Mai by MSimpkins
Well friends, it looks like I might be taking a trip back to Chang Mai for 25 or so days starting in early June. Some people said that the weather will start getting more rainy and the humidity will go up and all of that. Ok, I can be prepared for ...
Well, I've been looking at rental homes in Hang Dong (and may have just found the perfect place today!), so hit me up when you get in country. Read More
Ex-Pat life in Thailand - Chiang Mai - Are there dangers? by MSimpkins
My name is Matt and I am seriously considering moving to Thailand / Chiang Mai. I am starting dialog with many people. some good and some negative. I will need to have work so I can sustain living, but I am looking to re-connect with myself. ...
If you're afraid of a little danger and wary or taking risks, then maybe the adventure of moving to a new country isn't for you. Some expats are running away from something; I don't expect they will run away from themselves. I would ... Read More
Food from home in Thailand by TobyThai
hi all, I was wondering if I could get food I like at home in Thailand? Specifically things like gluten free bread and soya milk. If yes, what is the price of such things? Toby ;)
Soy milk is easy to find; whether it's organic or gluten-free requires your research. I found some French TV dinners under the Carrefour brand as well as (of course) British meat pies. Read More
Which one first? by Ruffian Dick
So I'm here in Chiang Mai Thailand, and here are a few things I want to accomplish before long: 1. Buy a motorbike. 2. Apply for a retirement visa. 3. Rent a house. Now it looks as though the retirement visa and the bike buying are easier if I ...
Thanks, I wasn't asking about whether I should live in a condo; for various reasons, that is "right out" for me. Read More
Which one first?
So I'm here in Chiang Mai Thailand, and here are a few things I want to accomplish before long: 1. Buy a motorbike. 2. Apply for a retirement visa. 3. Rent a house. Now it looks as though the retirement visa and the bike buying are easier if I ... Read More
Rent a Bicycle or Motorbike? by maxjones
Hi guys, moving soon from China to Chiang Mai and not sure if taking a Bicycle to move around or a motorbike, or just walk? I have read about so many accident on the streets there plus never drove a motorbike so i guess a licence is needed?And bit ...
I'm noticing that at the stoplights, when the motorcycles sneak in front of the cars (because they can accelerate a lot faster than the cars) they are often joined by some bicyclist who thinks he belongs there. Then the light turns green and ... Read More
I am wanting to buy a scooter when I get to thailand by Paddie
I am wanting to buy a scooter when I get to thailand. What are the prices like on the second hand market?
You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get. There are facebook groups for selling and buying motobikes. It's a good way to gauge what models are available in LOS and what the local market is like. I'd advise ... Read More
Retiring in Thailand, visa info by Dpetryk
My wife and I are interested in retiring in Thailand, I am 63 and I understand that as long as I have a minimum amount of money in a Thai bank I can get a retirement visa. My wife is 47. What type of visa will she require? Can she be considered a ...
This morning, I visited the US consulate and took my first step toward getting a retirement visa. I first needed to make an appointment. The website said I needed to print out my appointment form, but since I'm still in a hotel and didn't ... Read More
Your experience with the Retirement Visa by jbeverly
Hello, I'm new to Thailand and trying to weave myself out of the 30-day visa run. I'm here because of family (US & EU on work permits) but I entered via a 30-day tourist visa at the airport. To get a Non-immigrant O visa for 1 year ...
As I've said before, I'm not a fan of cricket; they little legs get stuck in my teeth. Read More
Your experience with the Retirement Visa by jbeverly
Hello, I'm new to Thailand and trying to weave myself out of the 30-day visa run. I'm here because of family (US & EU on work permits) but I entered via a 30-day tourist visa at the airport. To get a Non-immigrant O visa for 1 year ...
Well, here I am in Chiang Mai again. I went to the Krung Thai bank to change some money (only 30B/$1!) and idly asked about creating a bank account; they told me that I needed to have a retirement visa first! I asked about getting a retirement ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Yoga, you would probably be well advised to ask in another thread. Read More
Retiree for Chiang Mai? by Janehunt
Hi, I live on the Gold Coast and am a retiree in Australia, thinking seriously of coming to Chiang Mai to retire so I would love to hear from anyone who has done the big shift! I will be making a trip there just after Christmas, and it would be ...
What's rent assistance? You realize that rents in Thailand are about 10% what you need in Australia? :) You'd think they'd be happy to see you spending the $$$ in a country where it went further. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
That dual pricing don't seem so bad after all, does it? :D Read More
Favorite CM neighborhood? by Ruffian Dick
[b]What's your favorite neighborhood of Chiang Mai for living in, and why?[/b] I've been checking listings of houses for rent within mubans and find them spread all over town. [i]-Wualai/Hai Ya? -Hang Dong? -Mae Rim? -Doi ...
Thanks, Jaden! I haven't really explored Chang Khlan yet, but I will take a look. I like its central location. I'm wondering whether being close to the Ping would made flooding and mosquitoes into a serious concern. Read More
Your experience with the Retirement Visa by jbeverly
Hello, I'm new to Thailand and trying to weave myself out of the 30-day visa run. I'm here because of family (US & EU on work permits) but I entered via a 30-day tourist visa at the airport. To get a Non-immigrant O visa for 1 year ...
Thanks, Roderick, I’ll look them up when I hit CNX. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Let's just stay away from ad hominem attacks here please. That can be so damn tedious. Read More
Dealing with mail by Ruffian Dick
So, for the first month (or two) of my move, I will be at a hotel in Chiang Mai, after which I will find a more permanent rental. I have correspondence (bills!) from the States, which my sister in California will be receiving for the time being. I ...
Thank you gents, and let's not argue, my friends. Here is the IRS fact sheet re FBAR requirements: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-utl/irsfbarreferenceguide.pdf I stand corrected; the lower limit is $10,000 not $100,000. When you say ... Read More
Dealing with mail by Ruffian Dick
So, for the first month (or two) of my move, I will be at a hotel in Chiang Mai, after which I will find a more permanent rental. I have correspondence (bills!) from the States, which my sister in California will be receiving for the time being. I ...
Oh, thank you, O Zeus! I looked at FBAR on the IRS website. I think it’s $100,000 isn’t it? Anyway, I’m not stashing millions overseas, how I wish. Read More
Dealing with mail by Ruffian Dick
So, for the first month (or two) of my move, I will be at a hotel in Chiang Mai, after which I will find a more permanent rental. I have correspondence (bills!) from the States, which my sister in California will be receiving for the time being. I ...
The IRS was sending notices to one of your previous addresses? Apparently some post offices won't forward government mail if you sent the post office a forwarding notice. You can change you address with the IRS, using form 8822, but I imagine ... Read More
Dealing with mail by Ruffian Dick
So, for the first month (or two) of my move, I will be at a hotel in Chiang Mai, after which I will find a more permanent rental. I have correspondence (bills!) from the States, which my sister in California will be receiving for the time being. I ...
Changes? In what??? USA tax laws? Doesn't look too different here: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad If there's something specific, please share!!! Read More
Dealing with mail
So, for the first month (or two) of my move, I will be at a hotel in Chiang Mai, after which I will find a more permanent rental. I have correspondence (bills!) from the States, which my sister in California will be receiving for the time being. I ... Read More
Motorbike recommendation by themorn2112
Greetings all, I will be Moving to Thailand around the end of Summer. My first task upon arriving will be to purchase a Motorbike. I am a Large person (184.5 cm, 120 kg; 6', 270 lbs). I will mostly commuting around the city (Chiang Mai), ...
Well, you're clearly not a Yank. ;) We consider a 150-cc bike to be more of a toy. Now a 1000-cc hog, well, that's pretty nippy. :D Read More
The best apps for expats in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share information regarding some of the apps that have helped to facilitate your move abroad in Thailand. This will help expats-to-be who are making the move as well. Which apps did you use while preparing your move to ...
For real. Spoiled by Google Translate's ability with Japanese. :joking:Look on youtube at google translate. They demonstraight how it translates any written sign or document to your prefered language...looks goodI think Jaden is talking about ... Read More
Where to best buy mosquito zapper rackets and nets
Are those rackets really practical? It's a bug-zapper thing, right? You have to chase down individual skeeters and swing the thing through them. I guess they are fairly cheap. Probably your best bet is using lots of DEET and getting a bigger ... Read More
The best apps for expats in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share information regarding some of the apps that have helped to facilitate your move abroad in Thailand. This will help expats-to-be who are making the move as well. Which apps did you use while preparing your move to ...
For real. Spoiled by Google Translate's ability with Japanese. :joking: Read More
Motorbike recommendation by themorn2112
Greetings all, I will be Moving to Thailand around the end of Summer. My first task upon arriving will be to purchase a Motorbike. I am a Large person (184.5 cm, 120 kg; 6', 270 lbs). I will mostly commuting around the city (Chiang Mai), ...
I'm still trying to get my head around the idea of a 125-cc machine being "nippy". :/ Read More
List of Prohibited Jobs for westerners in Thailand by LuisF
For all those who are keen on working in Thailand, be aware that there is a list of jobs were, you, as a westerner will not be able to get a work permit. The List is taken from The Thai Labor Department Website -http://www.mol.go.th/- 1.- Labour ...
There are a number of environmental concerns where you could - at the very least - volunteer, if not find gainful employment. I know of one American woman who was working on the website for Elephant Nature Park. It's not impossible, but it may ... Read More
The best apps for expats in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share information regarding some of the apps that have helped to facilitate your move abroad in Thailand. This will help expats-to-be who are making the move as well. Which apps did you use while preparing your move to ...
I think we are still discussing apps. Read More
Favorite CM neighborhood? by Ruffian Dick
[b]What's your favorite neighborhood of Chiang Mai for living in, and why?[/b] I've been checking listings of houses for rent within mubans and find them spread all over town. [i]-Wualai/Hai Ya? -Hang Dong? -Mae Rim? -Doi ...
I'd like to hear from more people who actually live in CM... Read More
Using foreign licence in Thailand by Sammydavis0424
I haven't read any recent posts in regards to the subject of using foreign drivers licence in Thailand but as I can tell you that if your country is included in the UN treaty then as a tourist your are fine. Your insurance of any type will not ...
Is this a Thai insurance company or one from Australia? Read More
Favorite CM neighborhood? by Ruffian Dick
[b]What's your favorite neighborhood of Chiang Mai for living in, and why?[/b] I've been checking listings of houses for rent within mubans and find them spread all over town. [i]-Wualai/Hai Ya? -Hang Dong? -Mae Rim? -Doi ...
I was going to ask about the airport noise, that's just west of the airport and SW from the old city. And about half a click from the National Park. Thanks! I'll check it out when the day comes. Read More
Favorite CM neighborhood?
What's your favorite neighborhood of Chiang Mai for living in, and why? I've been checking listings of houses for rent within mubans and find them spread all over town. -Wualai/Hai Ya? -Hang Dong? -Mae Rim? -Doi Saket? -Suthep? -Wat Ket? Read More
Cash Passport by Sandyadamsfamily
Hello Can anyone advise whether I can use a Cash Passport in Phuket ? I want to load my Bhat onto this card as I feel it is safer. Any advice would be highly appreciated. Thanks Sandy
Do they charge you for the currency conversion? Somebody's gotta be making money off of this. Read More
The best apps for expats in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share information regarding some of the apps that have helped to facilitate your move abroad in Thailand. This will help expats-to-be who are making the move as well. Which apps did you use while preparing your move to ...
Airvisual for PM2.5 readings. CMTRANSIT is a "beta" transit app for Chiang Mai. Read More
Looking for a house to rent!
Thank you, Priscilla, I check that every day. This site's rental offerings are a little thing compared to when I've seen elsewhere. Just wanted to raise a conversation... Read More
The best apps for expats in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, We invite you to share information regarding some of the apps that have helped to facilitate your move abroad in Thailand. This will help expats-to-be who are making the move as well. Which apps did you use while preparing your move to ...
Lots of Facebook groups for expats in various parts of Thailand. Read More
Using Champus in Chaing Mai
Well, "ex" USNR, but not "retired" as such. :) Read More
Using Champus in Chaing Mai
It's not called CHAMPUS anymore. The new name is Tricare. I didn't know they paid for treatment overseas. https://tricare.mil/ Read More
Looking for a house to rent!
I will be in CM in late February. I'm looking for a two-story, two-bedroom house to rent, ideally in a mooban, pets allowed, and not too far from the Old City. Budget is about B12,000/mo. Just starting to get my feelers out there. I'll be ... Read More
Expat's Every Second Friday Breakfast in Chiang Mai
You mean the Chiang Mai Expats Club? Read More
25.000 in Chiang Mai are enough for an expat?
I guess your only skill is speaking English natively. You'd make more money as a teacher. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Well, hello from South San José! If you prefer, "non-recurring household expenses". ;) Depending on where you decide to hang your hat, many of these expenses (microwave, room fan etc.) might come with the unit, as well as most of ... Read More
HELP - Chiang Mai fully booked in January?
Are you looking for an apartment or a hotel? It's probably best to look for an apartment in-person rather than online. Fortunately CM is a tourist Mecca and affordable hotels are legion. Try ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
And you're welcome to it. ;) Thanks for helping bring this thread back on track. So what do you consider "start-up costs" for someone newly moving in? For a furnished apartment, I guess you'd have to buy your own bedsheets, etc. ... Read More
Living in Chiang Mai
I found this page when I was looking for information about mubans, what they were, what kind of facilities they can be expected to have, and so on. It's got helpful (and accurate as far as I can tell) tips about driving safely, moving, yellow ... Read More
Living in Chiang Mai
Hey guys, I just found a section of the "Perfect Homes" real estate website, where they talk about the ins and outs of living in CM: https://perfecthomes.co.th/living-in-chiang-mai/ I find it very interesting and informative. (Somebody ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
I imagine any "start-up costs" (whatever we really mean by that) would be minor compared to airfare for so many trips. Read More
Dream to Retire in Pattaya by gworsham
My name is George and currently live in Houston, Texas. I have worked in the oil and gas business and feel it is time to retire. I am single and I need a low cost place to live. I want to move there to Pattaya and not compromise security, health and ...
I think "babydroll" is a spammer. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
If a street vendor senses that you're interested in bargaining, he will throw a provocatively high price at you. That's the starting price. You are expected to counter-offer about half, although the real expectation is of a social ... Read More
New members of the Thailand forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Thailand forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Welcome Rissie and the rest of you! PNG must have been a real adventure. We're lucky you survived! Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Genevieve, with all due respects, it looks like you're living in a paradise that's been "discovered". :( Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Bill, I whole-heartedly agree! Bargaining, in many countries, it's as much of a social dance that's sometimes expected, instead of simply a trade of goods. Read More
Retiring in Thailand. ( Lamai Ko samui ) by Lampost
Hi. My name is Don Lampre from Qld Australia. I have been to Thailand twice 2016 & 2017. In 2017 i attended Anzac Day At Hell Fire Pass and the War Cemetery service at Kanchanaburi and will never forget that day, as i had a 30 yr service in ...
There were some tourists murdered there. Don't take counsel of your fears. Read More
New members of the Thailand forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Thailand forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Welcome! I've never been to Phuket or Karon, but I am sure that if you explore the peninsula inland you will find better situations. (And it all depends on your retirement budget.) Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Keep in mind, 1997 economically in Thailand was a crazy year to compare anything to. Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
The Dollar-Baht exchange rate has varied between 30 and 35 over ten years. I wouldn't call this too earth-shaking, especially since inflation within Thailand probably has more effect on prices. And apparently that hasn't been above 1% ... Read More
Cost of living 2018 in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, As per our annual tradition, we invite you to share your experiences and tell us more about the average prices of products and services in your town/city/area, so that we have updated information regarding cost of living and ...
Have costs/prices risen noticeably in the past year? Read More
New members of the Thailand forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Thailand forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Welcome Robby(1791)! I'm sure that many of your questions have been answered here at one point or another. Feel free to look around. Read More
New members of the Thailand forum, introduce yourselves here June to December 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Thailand forum? Dont know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more on ...
Welcome, retiredenglishgent. I'd advise posting your question as a separate thread. It's going to get swallowed up by all the other introductions... Read More
where to buy xanax in thailand?? by blaze111
Hey there. Im travelling to thailand in a couple of months and wanted to restock on xanax over there. My doctor told me that a lot of mom and pop pharmacies over there don't care about seeing a prescription and that my american prescription ...
They don't usually recognize the trade name from your country. Xanax is Alprazolam; ask for that. Read More
WILL BE IN THAILAND FROM MAR 14 TO MAR 18, 2018
I haven't been there, but I do use TripAdvisor for a lot of my travel research: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2237169-d6987966-Reviews-Impact_Muang_Thong_Thani-Pak_Kret_Nonthaburi_Province.html If it's served by mass-transit ... Read More
Positive information by Anton&Jacky
Gooooooood morning beautiful people in Thailand! :) With all the negative comments about Thailand, lets make this topic a positive one. Lets give a little positive comments to future expats! What do you like about living in Thailand? Tell us ...
I think you're in good hands, villagefarang. Read More
Thai- Farang relationship--- some advice please by tarzan7
Hi I met or was picked up rather by a Thai bar girl in June. I have since spent about 8 weeks with her in Thailand on and off until now. I have read all the dos and don'ts but am still at my wits end. The girl is in her 30s. I was taken to see ...
First off, I wouldn't recommend looking for a long-term serious relationship in a house of prostitution or anything like that. :) Secondly, remember that women like men as much as men like women. There's a woman out there (in fact many) ... Read More
Swimming Pool in Thailand
Backing up Bill's remark, do you really need a permit for a swimming pool remodel? Read More
Best Phone Deals/Network
Not really that obvious. If your phone is unlocked you can get a SIM at the airport. 4G network is available all over Thailand. Read More
Job hunting by leiakarinacepeda
Hi I have a degree in Business Administration major in Human Resource Development Management. I plan to move to Thailand ASAP. Will it be hard for me to find a job?
I'm sure there are, but you have got to find them yourself. :) Read More
Your experience with the Retirement Visa by jbeverly
Hello, I'm new to Thailand and trying to weave myself out of the 30-day visa run. I'm here because of family (US & EU on work permits) but I entered via a 30-day tourist visa at the airport. To get a Non-immigrant O visa for 1 year ...
You have to be at least 50 years old. I depend on the information from my nearest Thai consulate: http://www.thaiconsulatela.org/service_visa_detail.aspx?link_id=48 The monetary requirements are (in baht!): - applicant's bank statement (U.S.) ... Read More
Positive information by Anton&Jacky
Gooooooood morning beautiful people in Thailand! :) With all the negative comments about Thailand, lets make this topic a positive one. Lets give a little positive comments to future expats! What do you like about living in Thailand? Tell us ...
I'm not moved in yet, but I can say that overall, this forum is a lot more positive than certain other Thai expat forums. I love Thailand, and any true love involves taking the bad with the good. If you're asking for perfection, maybe it ... Read More
Tiny House in Thailand by Ezequ1el
Hello everyone, I hope you are all well. I am thinking of moving to Thailand in the future and I would like to ask you what your thoughts are on tiny houses there. I found out that non foreign can own Thai land, I was thinking of building a house on ...
Why tiny? Why not rent? Read More
Job hunting by leiakarinacepeda
Hi I have a degree in Business Administration major in Human Resource Development Management. I plan to move to Thailand ASAP. Will it be hard for me to find a job?
You can work as an English teacher, but if you don't speak Thai, your opportunities in human resources or business administration may be limited. Check this out if you haven't already: https://www.expat.com/en/jobs/asia/thailand/ Read More
Thai Bank account by GuestPoster6745
Can you open a Thai bank account whilst on a tourist visa.
You really need to be "on the ground" or visiting the branch in person. Try different branches if you fail, or different tellers on different days. This is Thailand. Read More
Visa Confusion by LeighPimi
I am hoping somebody can help me on Visa application Let me explain my confusion: I hope to retire to Thailand in May 2018 with my Thai Fiancé, that's the easy part. (I'm 60 now) We are visiting our home in Korat in Feb for 29 days and ...
Keep in mind that the banks make their own rules; they aren't Thai immigration offices. :) I understand Kasikorn is a little more flexible in this regard. Read More
Taxi fare details.,
There's something called "Taxi Fare Finder". Read More