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)," explained one expat living in Bangkok, Thailand.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsGet Quote
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote
"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," said another expat in Thailand.
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
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.
