Udon Thani, Thailand
Last updated on Sep 05, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Udon Thani, Thailand. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Udon Thani?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Udon Thani, they said:
"Udon Thani, is a popular destination for expats due to its affordable cost of living, warm climate, and friendly locals. Before retiring in Udon Thani, it's important to understand the visa requirements. Thailand offers a retirement visa for those over 50 who meet certain financial requirements. Healthcare in Udon Thani is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available. However, it's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance as medical costs can be high for significant procedures or ongoing treatments. The cost of living in Udon Thani is relatively low compared to Western countries. Housing, food, and transportation are all quite affordable, but it's important to budget for unexpected expenses. The official language is Thai, and while English is spoken in many places, it's beneficial to learn some basic Thai phrases. The climate in Udon Thani is tropical, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. It's important to be prepared for high temperatures and humidity, especially if you're not used to such a climate. Thai culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism and respect for the monarchy. It's important to understand and respect these cultural norms. Public criticism of the monarchy is illegal and can result in severe penalties. Udon Thani has a slower pace of life compared to Thailand's larger cities. It's a great place for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle, but it may not offer as many entertainment options as places like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Finally, it's important to have a plan for staying connected with family and friends back home. Reliable internet service is available in Udon Thani, making it easy to keep in touch through video calls and social media," remarked one expat who made the move to Udon Thani.
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What do I need to know before moving to Udon Thani?
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.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Udon Thani?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Udon Thani?
- Will I be able to find a job in Udon Thani?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Udon Thani appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Udon Thani?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Udon Thani accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Udon Thani like?
- How are healthcare services in Udon Thani?
- What are medical services in Udon Thani like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Udon Thani?
- What are emergency services like in Udon Thani?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Udon Thani?
- How are local medical facilities in Udon Thani?
- As a foreigner living in Udon Thani, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?