What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Thailand. They wrote...
"Struggle with language!!! Reading a menu that I can't read. I live in a 99.9% Thai area and have to rely on pointing and the basic language skills I am developing. If the taxi goes off the normal route on a dark, rainy night, I have no idea where I am, or where I am going. (I can share my ride during curfew, if anyone is interested, it's funny in the end)," commented one expat who made the move to Bangkok, Thailand.
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SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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"One challenge expats in Thailand may experience is adjusting to the local customs and etiquette. Many Thais place a great emphasis on respect, hierarchy and politeness, which can be quite different to other cultures. Another challenge is navigating the language. Although English is generally prevalent in the main cities and tourist spots, learning some basic Thai phrases can prove to be incredibly useful. Additionally, expats in Thailand may need to adjust to the local climate and intense humidity, particularly during the summer months. Finally, many expats may find the pace of life in Thailand to be quite different and may need to slow down in order to adapt," remarked another expat in Thailand.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Thailand?
- How do I find a place to live in Thailand?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Thailand?
- What is the average cost of housing in Thailand?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Thailand?
- What should I pack when moving to Thailand?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Thailand?
- Why do people move to Thailand?
- What are healthcare services like in Thailand?
- What are medical services in Thailand like?
- What are typical rents in Thailand?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Thailand, newcomers to Thailand would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
