12 Common Thai Proverbs & Their English Translations

Every language has proverbs, and these are usually translations or variations of those found in other languages and cultures.  In fact, proverbs are quite universal in that way. Proverbs are handed down through generations – almost like folklore. They use metaphorical language to express a perceived truth based on a generalization or life experience. I’ve…Read More

The Lowdown on COVID-19 Travel Insurance & the Cheapest Policy

Despite the on-going COVID-19 situation, an increasing number of foreign nationals are being allowed back to Thailand. All those returning, however, are required to have a COVID-19 travel insurance policy, with protection of at least $100,000 USD (3.5 million THB). In this FAQ, I’ll cover all the commonly asked questions regarding the requirements and give…Read More

A Long Weekend in Hua Hin: What to Do & Where to Stay

Located approximately a 3-4 hour’s drive south of Bangkok (200 km), Hua Hin is a pretty seaside town on the Gulf of Thailand. It boasts a five-mile long beach, and the highest density of world class golf courses in Thailand. A historic fishing town that neighbors the also popular Cha-am, Hua Hin long been a…Read More

Thai Talk – Thai For Beginners Lesson 2

Following on from Thai lesson 1, where I  gave you a set of useful phrases for traveling in Thailand, we are going to focus on asking for directions and how to say the names of specific places. Remember to keep putting the polite “Khrup” (sometimes sounds more like “cup”) for a man, and “ka” (sounds…Read More

Thai Talk – Thai For Beginners Lesson 1

My previous Thai talk post on dating and Thai love phrases proved pretty popular, so I thought I would create a useful set of “Thai for beginners” phrases that will be useful for travelers and those just starting to learn. As usual, I’ve written the phonetic English translation, and given you the Thai script.  The entire lesson is…Read More

Inheritance Tax Guide for British Nationals Living in Thailand

Whether you have lived in Thailand for two years or two decades, if you are British, UK inheritance tax (IHT) is an issue that you should consider sooner rather than later. While you shouldn’t worry unduly, don’t make the mistake of assuming that because you have been living in Thailand for donkey’s years that the…Read More

Retiring in Thailand – How Much Does It Cost?

A recent study carried out by NetCredit estimated that a person needs approximately $390,000 (US) to retire in Thailand. The study covered most countries of the world, with the goal of estimating the cost of retirement based on the equivalent quality of life you’d enjoy back home. The research was based on the following lifestyle…Read More

State Pension Guide for UK Nationals Living in Thailand

As a British national, should you contribute towards a UK state pension while living in Thailand? If you’d like £9,100 per year when you retire then the answer is most certainly yes! If you’re living the good life: young, in good health and having loads of fun traveling and working in Thailand, thinking about a…Read More

Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) – Your Questions Answered

ASQ stands for Alternative State Quarantine. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you must currently go through a quarantine period when you arrive in Thailand. There is a list of approved ASQ hotels to choose from, which you must pay for. On April 1, 2021,  Thailand reduced the mandatory quarantine-on-arrival period from 14 days (15 nights)…Read More

The 90-Day Reporting Guide: Where, When & How

All long-stay Thai visas have a 90-day reporting requirement. This means that once you have entered Thailand and had your visa stamped, you will be required to report to an immigration office and produce some paperwork within 90 days of your stay. In this FAQ, I’ll run through exactly why you need to do this,…Read More