Many
expatriates in Thailand can’t help but harbour an ambivalent
attitude of love and hate for their host country. Certainly, there
are two sides in the coin for this Southeast Asian nation which
prides itself as the only in the region not subjugated by a Western
power. It is for this reason that the country changed its name from
Siam to Thailand, taking on the word “Thai” which means free in
the native language.
Akin
to this free spirit is the Thais non-domineering and friendly nature.
This is what has gained favor most among expats, the better half of
their feelings for this country that urges them to stay despite the
negatives that they too encounter here. It won’t be an exaggeration
to say that the Thais are among the friendliest in the world,
accommodating and caring even to complete strangers.
Positive
Thai outlook
The
more relaxed way of life in Thailand compared to Western cultures is
another enticement for expats to overrule whatever they dislike in
living in this country. Thais have a very positive outlook on life.
When faced by adversity, their typical approach is “mai bpen lai,”
meaning “never mind and don’t worry” as the unwelcome
predicament will soon pass. With this fundamental in the ebb and flow
of life in Thailand, a positive outlook too becomes ingrained among
the country’s expats.
Cost
of living which is considerably more affordable than in developed
countries is another vital reason why farangs choose to stick it out
in Thailand. For a fraction of the rates in Western cities, they can
have upscale living quarters in Bangkok, for instance.
Life
and leisure advantages win
And
while Western dishes are widely available locally at great prices,
Thai cuisine compares favorably with the best of the world but
doesn’t cost that much. The same is true with local shopping which
not only offers competitively priced quality items but also enables
alternatives from a wide range of goods, be it in shopping malls or
night markets.
Lastly, leisure spots in Thailand like ShaSa Resort are plus factors that can outweigh the
minuses that bother expats about this country. Even just an overnight
stay at the beaches of Koh Samui can be enough for love to prevail
over the hate that some expats entertain about living here.
photo credit: ol'pete via photopin cc
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