Mai pen rai is one of the most commonly used phrases in Thailand. But it isn’t just a phrase. It has a cultural significance that reflects an attitude to life, and, as we’ll discuss, it doesn’t always mean what us “foreigners” think it means. Don’t Worry, It’s Okay The most commonly understood meaning of mai…Read More
Minimum Wage in Thailand – For Foreigners & Thais
Did you know there is a minimum wage for foreign nationals working in Thailand? How much you get paid depends on your country of origin. Here’s how it works out: 60,000 Baht/month: Canada, Japan and the United States of America 50,000 Baht/month: Europe (including the United Kingdom) and Australia 45,000 Baht/month: Hong Kong, Malaysia, South…Read More
Understanding Kreng Jai – The Considerate Side of Thai Culture
Kreng Jai is a Thai verb that literally means “awe of heart”. It is a phrase fundamental to the way Thai society operates. Looked at individually, the words translate as, Kreng, to fear something or be afraid to act; and jai, something of the heart or mind. The concept of kreng jai is one of…Read More
Jai Yen Yen – What Does It Really Mean?
Jai Yen Yen (Jai Yen) is a phrase you’ve probably heard if you’ve been in Thailand for any significant period of time. Jai Yen translates to English as “cool heart”. When a person says “Jai Yen Yen” to you, they are telling you to keep cool, to calm down, to not get angry and stressed…Read More
The Long Term Resident Visa (LTR) Guide
The LTR (Long-Term Resident) visa has been designed by the Board Of Investment (BOI) to attract high-potential foreign nationals to relocate to Thailand. The idea behind the scheme is to stimulate the economy with overseas investment and bring some much-needed post-pandemic cash to the Kingdom. The government has its eye on 1 million foreign nationals…Read More
The Thailand SMART Visa – A Guide to Eligibility & Benefits
The SMART Visa is a Board Of Investment (BOI) initiative to boost Thailand’s economy through innovation. The aim is to attract highly qualified individuals in specific areas of industry, to help the country grow through new talent and technology. In this post, we’ll take at deep dive on the SMART Visa categories and their eligibility…Read More
Thailand’s Military Service – How the Draft Works
Under Thailand’s 1954 Military Service Act, all Thai men, in the year they turn 21-years-old, must register for the military service draft. The conscription is held in April each year and takes the form of a lottery, unless you volunteer. Military service is still valued by many in Thailand and is said to maintain respect…Read More
Divorce in Thailand – A Spouse’s Guide
Marriages do go sour. In fact, Thailand’s divorce rate is high, at 39%. Compare that to the UK and Australia, both of which sit at 33%. Thailand isn’t as bad as the US, though, where the rate is a whopping 45% (1). Now you know why divorce lawyers make so much money! But, despite the…Read More
Thailand Travel Restrictions – Latest Information
Updated as of Sept 2022. Travelers the world over are keen to find out how they can travel to Thailand in 2022. In this guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about the current Thailand Travel Restrictions and what you need to do to prepare for your trip. Can I Travel to Thailand…Read More
An Easy Guide to Visa Exemption Stamp Rules
The visa exemption rule enables you to enter Thailand without needing to apply for a visa at a local Thai embassy or consulate. Thailand has an agreement with 64 countries that facilitates visa-free travel for tourist visitors. In this guide I will run through the entry requirements to help you ensure you are compliant for…Read More
Getting Married in Thailand – The DIY Guide!
Please note that the process of getting married in Thailand may take considerably longer than pre-pandemic times. The express service is not currently available at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), so the quickest you will be able to get your paperwork legalized is 48 hours. This means that technically it is no longer possible…Read More
The Fastest & Most Comfortable Visa Run Under 3,000 Baht [In 10 Easy Steps]
This visa run option can be done from any airport where Nok Air has a flight into Udon Thani, which includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. I first used this method because my 90-day stay was up on my Non-Immigrant O Visa. I wanted another 90 days and needed to leave and return to get…Read More
Foodpanda – The Low-Down on Thailand’s Food Delivery Service
Foodpanda is Thailand’s popular on-demand food delivery service. They deliver restaurant food, groceries, and everyday essentials to your doorstep. From street food to popular restaurants and even supermarket goods, it’s a really convenient service. Whether you’re an expat or a tourist on holiday, you can have food delivered to pretty much anywhere. Here’s all the…Read More