Thailand is a popular destination for many expats. It is a country with a rich culture and history, and it has been welcoming foreigners for centuries. Thailand is also known as the land of smiles, and it has been ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world.
The Thai people are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners, which makes it easy for expats to settle in this tropical land. The country offers many opportunities for expats to explore their interests, whether they are interested in spirituality or not. There are many reasons why Thailand is a popular choice: the food, the people, the culture, and the activities are just a few.
THAILAND EXPAT LIVING
It’s no secret that Thailand is an inexpensive country to live in, and the benefits of moving may outweigh the drawbacks. The cost of living in this region is substantially less than in western countries because of Thailand’s low-cost labor, cheaper rent, and other amenities. The culture and scenery are very welcoming to foreigners, who often spend as little as $1,000 per month.
Though many expats spend about $1500-$2000 if they plan to enjoy a lower-level middle-income lifestyle. The cost of living in this country can be anywhere from 35-75% cheaper than in the U.S. So, it’s typically easy to find decent housing and economical transportation for much less.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Thailand is an amazing place for expats. The culture and food are both a big draw for foreigners. It is also an affordable destination with excellent healthcare and the opportunity to earn a higher wage than back home. Thailand may not be perfect, but it is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for expats.
Though there are safety concerns that expats should be aware of. The major crimes that impact expats and tourists are crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing, petty theft, and fraud. So, do be careful with your belongings and financial details. You can easily become a victim of such crimes if you are not careful.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting around in Thailand is fairly easy for the average expat. The country has an excellent public transportation system, and there are also many companies operating private shuttle buses from the airport to various destinations such as hotels, shopping centers, etc.
One of the most popular forms of transportation in the country is the tuk-tuk. These tiny, three-wheel vehicles are typically powered by a motorcycle engine or engine generator set. They can only hold two people and a small amount of cargo at one time, but they are very popular because they are cheap. Aside from this form of transportation, taxis, motorcycles, and buses are plentiful in the country.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
Thailand is well-known for its tropical climate. The country experiences four seasons, with a wet and dry season. The monsoon season lasts from July to October, the rainy season from November to January, the cool season from February to May, and the hot season from June to July. So plan carefully when traveling to this region of the world.
THAILAND SPIRITUAL TOURISM
Thailand is a cultural hub for those seeking enlightenment. Tourists can explore the ancient temples of the country and find solace in Buddhist teachings. Though other religions, such as Chinese and Thai folk religions, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, etc., are practiced by natives in the country. This is an inspiring country to live in or visit for those who are on a spiritual journey.
BUDDHISM
Thailand’s Buddhist identity is evident, with Buddhists making up 93% of the population. Buddhism is based on the teachings of Buddha and generally focuses on peace, mindfulness, and compassion. The Buddhist religion is a set of guidelines for people to live by that are meant to be followed in order to liberate themselves from suffering.
FOLK RELIGIONS
Folk religions based on the Chinese, Peranakan, and Thai people are often practiced alongside Buddhism and Abrahamic traditions. These practices often involve the worship of local deities and the veneration of ancestors. It is common to see altars with various offerings throughout larger cities and within local municipalities in Thailand. These setups are pervasive in the country, giving it an authentically traditional feel.