Pros and Cons of Living in Thailand

Last updated on Feb 12, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Thailand include its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, friendly people, and low cost of living. On the other hand, the cons of living in Thailand include the language barrier, the lack of infrastructure in some areas, and the prevalence of scams and corruption. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

What are the pros and cons of living in Thailand?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Thailand responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the low cost of living in Thailand, as well as the warm climate and friendly people. They also enjoy the abundance of delicious local cuisine, the vibrant nightlife, and the many cultural attractions. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and bureaucracy challenging, as well as the lack of reliable public transportation. Additionally, the air pollution in some cities can be a problem for those with respiratory issues," said one expat in living in Thailand.

"Phayao is in Northern Thailand, so it's a little cooler here. The people are genuine and caring. Many beautiful mountains and waterfalls to explore here," wrote one expat in Phayao.

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What do expats in Thailand appreciate most about the local culture?

"Thai people are generally gracious and welcoming. They are extraordinarily tolerant. The food is marvelous. The cost of living is very low; medical care is inexpensive and excellent. There is very little crime. Older people are visible and respected. Humility, kindness, and generosity are valued," said a person living in Chiang Mai.

"Few busybodies, do-gooders and bleeding hearts interfering in the lives of other people. Respect for elders," explained one expat living in Bangkok.

What do expats find most challenging?

"The language. Without being able to speak Thai, one's social life depends upon other expats. Chiang Mai is very transient when it comes to expats. Many Westerners move here thinking it will be permanent but then cannot adapt culturally and move away. Single Western women looking for a dating life struggle to find partners," explained one expat.

"I didn't find anything particularly challenging, but I made up my mind that I would study the culture, behavioral characteristics to try and understand the differences, and there are many," said one person in Bangkok.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.