Lonely expat in Patong

Hi Steff,

You aren't alone feeling that way..

Let me introduce myself - Harry from India. I am a finance and accounting consultant and moved here September last year. The first month went by quickly in finding a place to rent, getting adjusted to food and new work space.

Later on as I settled in and continued my usual routine, I started to feel lonely after work hours as everyone disappears into their own lives. Nobody seemed to care and find out how I was doing or did I need some local tips.

I came home to find myself lonely, my family is back home in India and visits me for sometime as my daughter has her academic year going on.

Guess that is enough said - don't mean to bog you down. But yes, the bright side being Bangkok is good. Has its own pros and cons but I am quite liking it here.

How is Patong? The weather, people the food..

Cheers
Harry

Hello Harry!

Lovely to meet you. It's also surprising to hear that you feel a similar way. I almost feel guilty for not enjoying every moment in Thailand as some people could only dream of living here. But I guess, no matter where you are you need those connections with people.

I'm sorry to hear that you're also lonely and I totally agree with your situation. My work friends too have their own lives and there is no space for anyone else. They don't seem to realise how lonely I am, even though I have mentioned it. I don't want to rely on them for my happiness, and have gone it alone this long trying to find my own friends away from work but it's impossible when no one actually stays here long term.

If I were in Bangkok I would be sure to invite you for a coffee! You sound like an interesting person 😊 I do hope things get better for you. Living away from home can be so tough without a support network.

Patong so far has been pretty good. There is every type of food imaginable, and the weather has been great! Im a short drive away from an incredible beach, but it's not the same on your own. It's very busy, which i actually like because it makes me feel less alone. I know this area is not for everyone. It's mostly for party people on holiday, but I like it for now.

How about Bangkok

Thanks again for reaching out. I really appreciate it.

Steff.

Hi Steff,

Thank you for sharing

I am a Singaporean native working and residing in Bangkok for almost 3 years. It's not too far from home (2 hour flight) so I do go home sometimes

I couldn't have planned for my dad's sudden demise couple of years back and my mum is all alone back home.

She sometimes visit me but she is not a big fan of Thailand.

I have a pet cat here and he keeps me company.

You're right, it's never easy and we must always find ways to move on in spite of our shortcomings and challenges. You sound very positive minded and I hope you continue to live life to the fullest.

I wish you nothing but success

Best,
jwny

Dear Steff,

I was a little upset reading your post as I understand what a burden loneliness can be.

I cannot offer you anything except someone to talk to.  I am married here in Thailand and have been for a long time.

If you think having someone to write to and [possibly] in the future talk to on Skype will help you please feel free to contact me.

Sorry to read about your dog.  I lost my Bang Kaew in November but have replaced him now.  Thai Bang Kaews are such a beautiful dog.

Kind Regards,

Keith

HI Steff,

My name is Gordon. I am a 72 year old South African and moved to Patong 3 weeks ago on a 1 year non-immigrant visa.

Although I do have a Thai girlfriend, and I lived here for some months last year, I have the same problem as you do. It is really difficult meeting other expats, whether male or female, old or young. It seems to me that you need to live in the bars in order to meet people. Even then most men seem to want to sit alone in their own world, or with a Thai lady.

I am retired, so I don't have work contacts as you do. I enjoy life here, the weather, the food, easy living, friendly and helpful Thai people. If I had a few faring friends to chat to in English I would have everything I want.

I would be happy to buy you a cup of coffee, anytime.

Cheers,

Gordon

May I suggest that to make the most loneliness time more worthy in life. Let's set your spirit calm and free from all attachments by stat to learn how to meditate. You can go to this place if you still in Phuket it may train your minds to be less suffering. 145 Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000

and if you were in Bangkok please welcome to learn on meditation.