Cha-am, Thailand
Last updated on Sep 05, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Cha-am, Thailand. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Cha-am?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cha-am, they said:
"Expats considering retirement in Cha-am should be aware of several important factors. Firstly, they should understand the visa requirements for long-term stay in Thailand, which typically involve proving a certain level of income or savings. They should also research the cost of living, which can be significantly lower than in Western countries, but varies depending on lifestyle. Healthcare in Thailand is generally of a high standard, particularly in larger cities, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance. It's also important to note that while many Thais speak English, particularly in tourist areas, not everyone does, so learning some basic Thai could be beneficial. Expats should also be aware of the cultural differences they may encounter, such as the importance of respect for the monarchy and the Buddhist religion. The climate in Cha-am is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity year-round, and a rainy season from June to October. Housing can range from modern condos to traditional Thai houses, and it's generally easy for foreigners to rent property, although buying property can be more complex. Finally, Cha-am is a popular destination for both tourists and expats, known for its long beach, fresh seafood, and relaxed lifestyle, but it's still less developed and quieter than other Thai resort towns like Hua Hin or Pattaya," said one expat in Cha-am.
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What do I need to know before moving to Cha-am?
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 Cha-am?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Cha-am?
- Will I be able to find a job in Cha-am?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Cha-am appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Cha-am?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Cha-am accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Cha-am like?
- How are healthcare services in Cha-am?
- What are medical services in Cha-am like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cha-am?
- What are emergency services like in Cha-am?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Cha-am?
- How are local medical facilities in Cha-am?
- As a foreigner living in Cha-am, 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?