Expat Advice: Living in Songkhla, Thailand

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What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Songkhla

How long have you lived there?

4 months (been an Asian expat 2 years)

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

Songkhla International Women's Group, a small but welcoming group of both accompanying spouses (including men and domestic partners) and career women. There is a HASH and various informal clubs for sailing, flying, etc... one only has to go to the local pubs and ask around.

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Unlike the majority of Thailand which is Buddist, there is a large visible Muslim population in the area, especially in the villages and cities going south to the Malaysian border(a majority muslem country). An active separist movement among various Muslem militant groups has led to an intolerance towards muslems by a majority of the Thais and, I am sorry to say, the expat population as well. Christians are a small part of the Thai population but are accepted as a normal part of society.

Foreigners, expats, (called "Farangs") are all assumed to be Christian with no prejudice. Thailand is a homogenous population, so Farangs attract alot of attention, especially if your are fair with blond or red hair and blue eyes. (our family is all blond and blue eyed) It is quite a bit like the fame of being a movie star. Usually this curiousity is limited to being constantly watched and being approached by people wanting to practace their English or take pictures. Thai children are adored and this will extend to Farang children being especialy fawned on, constantly talked to, and touched. The touching especially the hair and arms seem to be the biggest concern among the expat population, but if you ask them to stop or the child seems distressed they will. There is a large Thai middle class and upper class population, with a majority of the laboring classes living in the surrounding villages. The Buddist belief of reincaration and acceptance of fate, leads to a tolerant and generally easy going society, with the exceptions noted above.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Songkhla is a primarily a regional tourist destination. The main industries are fishing and oil. The expats are mostly from the internation oil and oil service companies with a few English teachers. The next city over, Hat Yai, has a larger population of expat English teachers. Thailand is very protective of it's labor force and it is difficult to find a career outside of teaching English or the medical field if arrangements haven't been made prior to entering the country. Several expats have small businesses selling the variety of Thai handicrafts such as silver, silk and wood in their home countries. Presenting yourself at a local hospital is the best way to get into the medical field. As a farang you will be constantly approached about teaching English or can inquire at the bi-lingual or local schools.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Thailand has good weather, great food and friendly people. The expat population is small and friendly and the Thais are welcoming so it's easy to make friends and become a part of the local society. The shopping and resources are quite good and world class stores are located a short and cheap plane flight away. If you are working for a local company the wages will be substantially lower than in your home country, but the cost of living is so low, you will be able to live comfortably. As with any overseas assignment, come here with a tolerant attitude. Learning the language helps but it is more important to understand and accept the new culture.

Moving to Thailand soon?

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