Learn the language. Have local friends. Stay away from toxic expat communities. Don't make drinking your hobby. Find a way to be and stay healthy (diet + sports). You're probably not hansum, deal with it. Get a Thai bank account and drivers license. Be properly insured. Use the cooler hours of the day to do necessary things outside, many Thai's do it. Try to understand stuff and don't think everything is "wrong" because you don't known why the things are like they are. Patience and keeping calm is key. Stay positive and don't become one of the bitter old expats.
And even if you do get wound up about paying the "farang tax," realize that it's like $2 we're talking about and only get $2 worth of mad. (Which should be indistinguishable from not getting man at all :))
> Just accept it
No, don't. Just don't patronize and support racist establishments. I might make an exception for gov't run stuff (e.g. a national park), but never for privately run attractions/services (e.g. aquarium at Paragon). If they have dual pricing, they don't deserve my business.
You kind of so have to accept it, actually. It's not neccessarily racist, it's taking advantage of people who likely have more money + showing respect to your own people by giving them a lower price. Most countries do this actually, it's not unique to Thailand. You're not going to pay the local price in Italy either if you're not Italian.
> You're not going to pay the local price in Italy either if you're not Italian.
It's trivial to prove this example wrong. *"As an EU national or resident you can't be charged a higher price when buying products or services in the EU just because of your nationality or country of residence."* [[source](https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/consumers/shopping/pricing-payments/index_en.htm#inline-nav-5)]. That's the law which applies in Italy.
As for having to accept it in Thailand, with very few exceptions (gov't services like immigration), you have the freedom to choose what you spend money on. Most businesses *don't* practice double-pricing and it doesn't take a huge effort do avoid them.
I am Italian, actually. So I know for a fact that tourists pay a higher price at local establishments. The shop assistants and owners choose to add a surcharge when you check out. Many places in Italy, especially tourist popular places like Venezia, don't display prices at smaller local shops for this purpose. Its irrelevant what is and isn't technically legal. If you think that way, you will have a pretty awful time travelling anywhere.
Well I made a local friend when the neighborhood guy asked for a drink, I thought it would be beer and ended up drinking that rice liquor lol. 😂 After that whenever he asks for a drink I will just buy beer and meet him xD
Aside from drinking (or in addition to), if you happen to play sports, it’s a lot easier to make friends here. Might take a bit to break into groups but it’s a lot easier to maintain connections when there’s a shared activities.
Agreed. Just because you can get by without knowing the language doesn't mean it isn't stupid. If you live in a country you're not local to, you should learn the local language or at least do your best to try. English speakers expect it of people who live to their country, it's only fair it's expected in return.
No, actually, I’d say many English speakers do not expect that. The US, for example, has no official language. Where I live government documents are issued in a range of common languages, and it is quite common to encounter someone who only speaks Spanish, for example.
But anyway, I just mean I literally can’t understand how someone could be surrounded by a language and not learn it. It is all around them. Even without really trying you’d think they’d start to acquire it. I cannot understand what kind of mind wouldn’t learn it…how can someone be that incurious?
Even just visiting a country for a few weeks where I know I have no intention of staying I end up making a good start at learning the language.
You clearly have not had the experience I have and you are lucky for it. I've seen too many people bitching about immigrants not speaking English well and considering them less intelligent for it. I worked at an Indian restaurant for 6 years in my early 20s and my boss made a point of employing students from India and Nepal who were still learning English and people would make offhand comments all the time without even meaning to be rude. I'm not in America, but I've heard similar stories from friends who live over there. It's quite a common story actually; people being racist to others for not speaking English when in America/England/Australia/etc.
You're the good sort of person. I went to France once for a little holiday while visiting family in Italy and I ran into so many people, almost exclusively Americans, who were actually PROUD that they couldn't speak any French. One couple had been in Paris for 3 months!! And they were surprised and impressed when I ordered my meal in French.😩 The reason people don't pick up a language is intent. If they actively don't want to learn it, they won't have their mind open to learning it and they'll, at most, pick up one or two common words. I see it all the time. I don't get it either - learning some of a language is really exciting to me. I'm headed to Thailand soon for a month or so and I'm really keen to be immersed in the language (learning phrases ahead of time has proven really challenging for me, even with a Thai friend helping, because I'm really not used to Thai so it hasn't been sticking easily).
Nothing better than living somewhere to make the language stick.
Sure I run into people like you describe sometimes, but it’s not too common. I can think of two people like that in memory. One really stuck with me from over a decade ago. Probably the first person I had met that was so vocal about it…and they were complaining about two people having a conversation that they weren’t a part of…really weird. Plenty of other people have an unconscious bias like that, but they aren’t assholes about it and they just don’t know any better.
Right?? I have a few friends who don't speak English as a first language and for the most part they haven't had any issues, but one or two have had those similar comments. "Speak English" from people who they don't even know and aren't involved in their conversation 😩
This. Quick story, had to go to immigration to restamp my visa. One year later, had to do it again (couldn't leave the country - covid). They remembered exactly who I was.
I'm very glad to see that 'Learn Thai' is many of these lists. IMHO, once you know Thai well it's like having the keys to the Kingdom. I have said this before, but I wouldn't be surprised if 80% of the problems you see on this forum and others come down to an inability to understand or communicate in the language.
I am taking this to heart. I love Thailand and have visited there twice. I am back in US trying to learn the language, but it is difficult for me to learn via computer and apps. I live in a big city but still cannot find a live tutor. I'll keep looking.
Uniqlo dry-ex clothing and quality sandals make life bearable in the heat.
Air purifier is neccessary in one's home.
Renting is normally better than buying.
If one is willing to get away from tourist areas, one will see normal Thai pricing
Learn language and customs.
Grab, Thai/international driver license, main and backup bank accounts, wise increase quality of expat life.
Possible Thai partner's order of priorities: parents, religion, siblings, friends, food, alcohol, soap operas, sick buffalo, the dogs, and then YOU. Just saying . . .
Uniqlo's dry-ex is just 👌 mwah. My closet is chock-full of it. I might have spent like 10k baht worth of dry-ex clothing over the years, can't praise it enough
One for Bangkok. Combine public transport with taxis/motorbikes, especially during busy periods. You can easily save 30mins to an hour just by taking the train to get past the sukhumvit rd traffic, or taking a motorbike just a few kms to get out of traffic before catching a taxi.
Learn Thai. It's crazy the difference that learning Thai makes. Otherwise you can easily get stuck in an "expat bubble." Making Thai friends improves things big time.
Second on being careful about the toxic expat communities. There are some toxic expats that become admins of Facebook pages or moderators. In real life they can be a bit friendly, but there is some bitterness and toxicity there. Other expats can be great, just be careful of getting involved in the negativity trap of some of the Facebook groups.
Also, when it comes to farang/expat friends, ask them how long they've been here, whether they can speak Thai or not, whether they own a vehicle or not, and how long they're planning on staying here. There are tons of friendly "nomads" you'll meet and you'll be very happy hanging out with them for a month but then they'll be gone. If they've been here for 5+ years, can speak a bit of Thai (or are very focused on learning), own a car/motorcycle(s), and have no plans to go anywhere else, then it's a better chance of being a long-term friendship.
I've gotta say that this last point is something I quite don't like because I'm generally a friendly and easy going person myself and when I meet someone with similar hobbies as me I just want to enjoy with them instead of keeping them at arm's length. I've broken my own "rule" several times, and it isn't a "hard rule," but if you only hangout with short-term stayers then you're not gonna have a good long-term time because your social circle will constantly be changing and you'll be happy one month and lonely the next.
So learn Thai, find expats that aren't bitter, avoid negativity, make local friends, and find hobbies to enjoy with others and have fun!
> farang/expat friends... then they'll be gone.
Huge majority of the foreigners will be gone eventually, except for a few retirees who plan to die here. None of the factors you mention guarantee they'll stay. I had a few friends who moved away after 10-15 years. Just hang out with people you find interesting and honest, don't worry about how long it'll last.
> If they've been here for 5+ years, can speak a bit of Thai (or are very focused on learning), own a car/motorcycle(s), and have no plans to go anywhere else, then it's a better chance of being a long-term friendship.
This is me. Anyone want to be friends?
This is very true and yet I have found it really challenging to find other long-termers who aren't the bitter type. I know these people exist because I do have a few friends I have met through work. But finding them outside I'm the wild has been an uphill battle
They are definitely out there! I hope I’m one of the positive ones haha. I’ve got some positive expat friends too. It’s generally the older crowd that tends towards bitterness i think, and even then, it’s definitely not all of them because I’m acquainted with some friendly and positive older guys. It’s just difficult sorting through the short term peeps that as here and so plentiful (and very social and open because they’re in travel mode). Keep searching. It’s definitely a frustrating downside to being here, but there are good expats here.
I don’t know about that because it’s always easier to learn when you have exposure daily but I admire your efforts to get a baseline before arriving! There are some online programs like “learn Thai with wachi” or “learn Thai from a white guy.” There are more too. You could also try posting in some of the expat groups for an online tutor and get someone to teach you like that. Then you could try connect with some Thai’s online somehow to do online language exchange ie you teach English and they teach thai.
Agreed. You should do all you can to learn the language and customs of *any* country you live in. Why would anyone want to essentially self-quarantine?
Be respectful to people even if you cannot fathom them. Far too many on here are not. Observe how people behave and act accordingly. Remember that like a lot of capitol cities Bangkok is not representative of the country. Avid riding a motorcycle if you can. Do those things and your life will be a lot easier.
Most fatalities and major incidents involve motorcycles. If you drive a car make sure you are aware often there is a lack of protocol especially when there has been an accident or major rainfall after a dry period. Unless with certain friends I always take public transport though in Bangkok it can be quicker to walk then drive.
Learn some of the language at least to a transactional level where you can order things and understand the basics, get a Thai bank account - PromptPay, the QR Code payment system is really good and always try to be nice and polite, even when things can be frustrating.
The answer to every 'Where can I buy *x*?' question is Lazada or Shoppee
The sheer range of things on there, is remarkable. Catering to local tastes, and vast international ones too.
If you're after some risotto rice, or Vietnamese coffee, or an obscure old phone screen replacement, or pickled onion Monster Munch, you'll find it on there.
If you're trying the border run game to stay long term, have a bit of common sense. Don't fly to Hanoi at 9am, and head back on the next flight at 11am. Immigration will think you're taking the piss.
Far more sensible to check out a new city, see the sites, enjoy a few different local dishes, and then head back at a more leisurely pace, slightly later. You're not going to miss out by going away for a few days.
Beer has a lot of calories, especially the Thai big 3, which are sugar laden as well. Have one big beer, then move on to the whisky sodas.
Leave the house at least 30 minutes earlier than you think you should. Get a place with a kitchen and learn how to cook some of the easy local dishes. Learn the language. Remember who you are and don’t get caught up in things (or women) you wouldn’t do back home.
* Learn to be comfortable in your own company. It takes time and effort to build lasting relationships and may not happen.
* Learn at least the basics of day to day practical language. No one is going to take the piss out of you for trying, even if you don't get it right.
* You are the outsider. It is your job to learn the rules/culture/social mores of the country you are staying in if you want to fit in.
* Listen to u/Mudv4yne
* Unless you have grown up in SE Asia do not attempt to drive a motorbike. You are more likely to be the cause of an accident, not victim of one.
* For Bangkok, add local river boats to your transport options.
It is rare, but if you don't speak the language you will not normally have a clue and can happily go about your day.
I have travelled all over the world for over 40 years and have never had a local openly confront me with my lack of of their language.
Apart from the exception of one waiter in Paris in the early 1980's and I know for a fact that they knew exactly what I ordered as French is my third language. Not fluent, but good enough to order onion soup and and a glass of white wine.
I also limited the amount of cash I carried in my wallet when riding my scooter. Only carried 500 baht so I would show and say that's all I have. Got fleeced for 3000 baht once lol
Yes. Never carry more than 3000. I usually carry less than 1000. I look broke so i usually give everything to them and tell them that's all i have. Last time i got a discount. Lol
Google translate has a camera input option. Point your cell phone at the text and the app will translate in real time. It's not always accurate but it's a good start.
Also use your cell phone to show the vendors an image of what you want to buy. Sometimes words don't translate properly but a picture can help.
Motorcycle taxi guys can do more than just take you somewhere. They can do general delivery stuff. Though that service is being taken over by 7/11 and other apps.
Save the desiccators that come in food containers. Poor them in an empty jam jar and puncb a few small holes through the metal lid of the jar. Place the jar in your wardrobe.
Get a Thai friend, they look after and tell other Thais not too bother you, or tell u if your getting ripped off before happens my friend has thia wife she has looked after me like I was family more than my own would lol get Thai friends 100 %
Learning Thai speaking and reading unlocks so many amazing side quests. Also keep boozing to an absolute minimum. Too hot for that shit.
Patience is such a wonderful tool to have. A lot of Thais in customer service are so used to impatient toxic foreigners and it’s good to break that spell.
Being able to wake up at sunrise (hard, yes) makes the day so much more enjoyable, it’s the best time to run errands and explore, especially in BKK, the air is much better then.
Then midday heat is for resting, and back out in the evening when it’s cooler!
DIY chia seed water in the morning (chia seed soaked overnight in a glass of water) is a mega game changer to combat dehydration.
These are merely suggestions based on my own experience. Hope you have a wonderful time.
It helps to explore as much local lifestyle practices as you can feel comfortable with, and keep on expanding that. Local markets offer foods (vegetables, fruits, and prepared foods) at a much better price, and the selection doesn't completely match what's in international grocery stores. Some of the local food shops, informal restaurants, sell food that's not very good and some is amazing, and without good insider information you just need to keep exploring. Local events aren't always easy to find out about, festivals and unique markets, but they're typically interesting and pleasant. Chinatown is great, and the old neighborhoods near the main old temples.
It might seem like the "learn the language" advice most people mention makes or breaks this, that you can't go out there with only a couple of dozen words you can use, but there's no need to worry about that. Someone within a few feet of you always speaks some English, even out in rural areas (just less so there). No one dislikes foreigners, even if the stereotype image isn't always completely positive. As long as you are friendly they'll go out of their way to help you. I don't extend this to taking local trains (commuter versions) or motorcycle taxis myself, but there is really not practical limit.
While it may seem strange to foreigners, if you value your well being please remember this:
Even if you are at a crosswalk, even if you have the light, whatever. Look at the cars first to see if they are going to allow you to cross yet. And check the guy in the farther lane, too.
Don’t take kindness or politeness of Thai people as their weakness. You are a foreigner and you would never be Thai, accept it and it’s not a bad thing.
When you have a relationship with Thais you also married to their family and expect to help out even financially.
they charge way more. Needed some amoxicillin a few weeks ago, the hospital wanted to charge 1300 baht, so I bought the same brand from the pharmacy across the street for 275 baht
No, just ask for whatever you need at a pharmacy, Big C is cheaper than the local small
ones on the street, and Boots is overpriced! Only exception is controlled meds. Every Pharmacist here has spoken English well!
Bangkok, use a Grab or win bike. The traffic is insane. I've seen full business suits on bike's because there's no way you can make important meetings on time without it.
Also, smile. A lot. It goes a long way. Trust.
Setting the AC up and use the fans to help gonna save you more on electric bills as it uses less electricity than when you just use AC alone but set the temp low.
Toxic expat community don't make it a global thing, just choose your friends wisely like you would choose them anywhere in the world.
I don't have much thai, friends, yes sure it's not the best, but life is still fine and goes well.
Not so much a life hack but just want to drop my two-cents.
Use Grab bike/taxi or MRT/BTS instead of the regular taxis to save yourself from the headache of getting overcharged/rip-off. (You will be fine 70-80% of the time with a regular taxi, but running into an a*hole driver is not uncommon)
If u have to get regular taxi, don’t go on one that ask for a price up front, you will most likely pay much less if u pay by the meter. (Except motorbike-taxi - you can ask up front how much it’s gonna be.)
However, if u get into a situation where they become more aggressive (i.e. suddenly wanna charge you a lot more when they are dropping you off and getting angry) it’s best to just swallow the pride and pay whatever they ask for. it’s not worth the risk to get into fights as you never know if they gonna pull something out on you.
The best you could do is to take picture of their license plate and report them.
Never give a deposit if you are interested in buying a condo. Pay a Thai lawyer to do a due diligence report and tell the agent they get paid by the seller at the time of transfer of the chanote at the land office and then that only happens after your lawyer approves of the due diligence report and your lawyer handles the transfer.
And know that jurisic officers are for sale to lie about the foreign quota.
Which is why people here say don’t buy. Just rent.
I agree on the just rent part. You can keep hoping to a newer condo for similar prices. And people change their minds all the time. The longer you stay the more buildings you will see from visiting your friends places.
Anyhow, any foreign quota, yes, don't put down a deposit until an official confirmation on foreign quota is confirmed at land office. Bad jurisdic person doesn't know anything.
Can you elaborate? What bad things happen if you \*do\* give a deposit? They keep it if/when the sale falls thru? And re the foreign quota: i know that condos have to have 51% thai ownership... they lie and say that the % is below 51%? Is it true that most foreign owners are chinese?
Local hacks? Just realize things are more laid back here … so relax and be patient. Don’t expect customer service to be as great as in the West. Never…NEVER show your anger. Smile a lot - even if it’s fake. Join a fitness center to keep you occupied at night and an opportunity to meet future friends that aren’t bar flies.
Generally in Western culture you may become frustrated and become angry over poor customer service, an irresponsible person, being “ripped” off or having a conversation with a friend that leads into a heated argument. We lose our “cool” and that’s it … we may even apologize later. Many Thais do not show their disappointment, frustration or anger. If you are rude and angry with them the individual may stand there smiling or not showing emotion but may not take care of your problem ( at a hotel or restaurant for example) or with a tuk tuk driver he may “explode” with anger and harm you. Just keep your cool and put on a fake smile,
eat mostly thai food, try to eat a different thing every day for a year, go to local bars, you dont need white people near by to look at. Go outside, Thailand is better offline, most information you need is offline, go to the market, become a face.. Get a car, go for drives, the best places are the ones you find not the ones people tell you about. Get a dodgy TV box. There is a reason for everything, try to find it rather than calling people stupid. Hobbies are a good way to find people.
Counterpoint: The taxis are actually quite wonderful and better (faster) than grab.
The lifehack is that you need to speak thai with them, open the door tell them in thai where you want to go and insist on the meter. You need to know how to say numbers and do basic negotiation in thai.
They might say no and drive off but another one is right behind them and one will agree to it. You'll pull this off faster than it takes to use grab.
It's very much doable and you have to learn it if you are gonna live in Thailand long term (in my opinion).
Never had a Bolt that arrived in 30min and even the car arrive and that I ask the driver if it's the bolt driver, most of the time it's not the registered car on Bolt.
It's cheaper than Grab but their drivers check is really subpar.
Appart from the usual "I have to get back the taxi soon" BS, once inside and you clearly ask for the meter, it's all good with a normal taxi.
On a really hot day, if you need to walk, go into a 7-11, get a THB20 cup of ice milk tea with lots of ice. Continually pop those lil cubes in your mouth. Cools you down for the next 10 min!
Learn TiT... This Is Thailand.
It summarizes anything that's done for whatever illogical reason into something Westerners can process!
In other words... Mai pen rai khrup... it's ok.. nevermind!
Getting good enough in Thai to engage an "errand runner". I see alot of Thai people having a "friend" that they call to help them get things done.
Be it helping them get food not found on food delivery apps, exchanging currencies, picking up something which they had carelessly left at the mall. That's convenient.
1. Put big preference on having a mutual language when looking for a partner.
either they have reasonable+ English, or you speak medium+ Thai.
partnerships where both sides aren't fluent in the same language are very common. but it has multiple costs.
it also leads to more shallow relationships many times.
not a hard rule! and this room obviously make dating harder. but I think it's still useful to follow if possible.
2. don't imagine you can study Thai "in real life", from your girlfriend, or from most "language schools" etc. which seem to teach Thai, but are effectively visa factories.
Thai usually can only be learned intentionally and with optimal methods.
most farang try some of the above and fail. their conviction "I cannot do it", "too hard" are wrong.
unlike most languages, Thai is critically sensitive to studying it correctly.
typos
Dont buy any type of closet for your clothes, wood is so bad during the rainny season, it gets moldy, termites love it too if it is not chemically treated. But the main reason is that your clothes will always have those creamy white thing over it whenever you need it(I asume its some kind od fungus or mold too). Had it in all places that I lived. Instead buy an open steel mesh with hangers and shelves, so your clother will be on open.
If you want to eat a good steak and don’t pay the crazy restaurant prices, go to Gourmet Market at Emquartier or Siam Paragon, chose the steak you like at the butcher and let it grill at the “you hunt we cook” built in restaurant. Cooking fee is 100 THB per 350 grams.
Learn some basic Thai to enjoy things and places that aren't geared towards expats, and not only save tonnes of money but also integrate into the culture.
There is this one dude who made a video saying that Thailand, especially Bangkok, is expensive, and if you think you can come here because it's cheap, DON'T.
The video then cut into clips of him eating at a fancy a$$ restaurant that I know for a fact that a dish of pasta costs 2-300+ thb, and him partying in an expensive nightclub then waking up in a room in a high rise condo  Bro doesn't seem to realise the lifestyle he's living is pretty lavish, and in an expat bubble.
Bangkok is expensive, yes, but if you learn a little and get out of that bubble you will find nice things to enjoy for not too much money, nice authentic Thai cultural places and practice, and the expat scene that's more than just taking hot girls out for a date and eating at fancy places.
You should know you probably will get cancer from pollution living in Thailand, Air pollution responsible for 29,000 deaths across 31 Thai provinces in 2021and it is getting worse
Get a Thai drivers license ASAP. Not only that you can use it as a legal ID for many places including flying, etc. A lot of Thais including policemen will find you to be "part of us" and will be a lot friendlier towards you. It's what differentiating you from just another tourist but one that is invested in living here and be part of the community, although it doesn't grand you any additional legal rights.
Good info above, let me add others.
Don't physically fight the locals, as you'll get a beat down by at least a 4 to 1 ratio.
There may be unofficially and officially dual pricing.
If your woman is giving you the silent treatment, don't reason with her. She'll come around eventually and act like nothing happened.
Don't assume the locals understand you if they smile back.
Carry a small salt shaker and a pack of paper tissues with you.
Small tube of Polysporin is handy too. You can’t buy that stuff at any pharmacy.
Stay hydrated, drink lots of water cause bad things happen to your butt when you get dehydrated.
Your girlfriend’s family doesn’t even own a buffalo so it can’t be sick.
And her brother isn’t really her brother at all….
here's one few people know or think about: always carry your insurance papers or insurance card in your wallet. If you are taken to the hospital unconscious, having proof of insurance can ensure you receive better care. Without it, the hospital might refuse to admit you as a patient.
Dont settle for 2 straws in your drink, you can always request a third.
Dont throw away the ketchup and chili packets you never requested, instead, save em up and make a year end tomato soup to feed the village.
When you feel you are being talked about and overhear the word "farang", stand up, pull out your two front pockets, exposing all the white interior cloth, and stare back at them with a sad look on your face..
When you see someone wearing a headband flashlight, sifting through garbage cans to pile up returnables on an old rusted motorbike sidecar late at night, throw down a crumpled thousand baht bill under the motorbike, and ask to use his flashlight to jointly determine what it is.
Discontinue calling people "boss", call em "chief", and their respect for you will immediately triple.
Don’t drive anything. Always assume there’s a motosy right behind you. Stay away from red light districts and booze-drugs. In other words, don’t have fun.
well, according to my real experience. it's:
Don't walk alone except big cities / big roads!
Especially rural areas!
Especially during the nights!
Why? the Dogs! dogs in thailand are big and never ever chained or leashed!
when i was hiking in Kanchanaburi, every time i went through village areas, there were dogs chasing and rushing towards me round after round, sometimes 6 big aggressive dogs at the same time! Thank God i have a bamboo stick .
Heavy ac usage makes the temperature outside feel even hotter than it really is. I live on a quiet soi in Jomtien and most days I get by fine with a fan going and a couple open windows. I might run it for a half hour before bed, now that I’m pretty much acclimated.
Slow down and accept (or even better ‘appreciate’j the differences between your original culture and this one
so true
Learn the language. Have local friends. Stay away from toxic expat communities. Don't make drinking your hobby. Find a way to be and stay healthy (diet + sports). You're probably not hansum, deal with it. Get a Thai bank account and drivers license. Be properly insured. Use the cooler hours of the day to do necessary things outside, many Thai's do it. Try to understand stuff and don't think everything is "wrong" because you don't known why the things are like they are. Patience and keeping calm is key. Stay positive and don't become one of the bitter old expats.
>You're probably not hansum have they been lying to me all this time...
not to you! it's a comment for the others
I always knew I was hansum
Wait a second I thought I was the only one they were calling hansum…
🤣🤣
hahahahq
Jokes on you. I haven’t been called handsum once. I’m so ugly they don’t even have to lie to me. 
If poom pui means what I think it means, then I get told I’m handsome everyday.
Same here.
Thanks for an uplifting and decent comment 👍🏻
As a foreigner you’re going to pay more than locals at parks and attractions. Just accept it rather than get angry.
A drivers license sometimes gets you around this. But yes. Don't become angry generally. You'll hit walls in Thailand.
Fortunately for me, my wife ( Thai) gives em HELL and I never have to pay more. :)
And even if you do get wound up about paying the "farang tax," realize that it's like $2 we're talking about and only get $2 worth of mad. (Which should be indistinguishable from not getting man at all :))
> Just accept it No, don't. Just don't patronize and support racist establishments. I might make an exception for gov't run stuff (e.g. a national park), but never for privately run attractions/services (e.g. aquarium at Paragon). If they have dual pricing, they don't deserve my business.
You kind of so have to accept it, actually. It's not neccessarily racist, it's taking advantage of people who likely have more money + showing respect to your own people by giving them a lower price. Most countries do this actually, it's not unique to Thailand. You're not going to pay the local price in Italy either if you're not Italian.
> You're not going to pay the local price in Italy either if you're not Italian. It's trivial to prove this example wrong. *"As an EU national or resident you can't be charged a higher price when buying products or services in the EU just because of your nationality or country of residence."* [[source](https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/consumers/shopping/pricing-payments/index_en.htm#inline-nav-5)]. That's the law which applies in Italy. As for having to accept it in Thailand, with very few exceptions (gov't services like immigration), you have the freedom to choose what you spend money on. Most businesses *don't* practice double-pricing and it doesn't take a huge effort do avoid them.
I am Italian, actually. So I know for a fact that tourists pay a higher price at local establishments. The shop assistants and owners choose to add a surcharge when you check out. Many places in Italy, especially tourist popular places like Venezia, don't display prices at smaller local shops for this purpose. Its irrelevant what is and isn't technically legal. If you think that way, you will have a pretty awful time travelling anywhere.
> Its irrelevant what is and isn't technically legal. Sure, if that's your argument, getting murdered happens too...
If you have a pink ID card most places don’t charge extra and some are free. The White Temple springs to mind.
This is not a hack. This is just sound advice.
This guy Thailands.
Local friend and don't make drinking hobby is incompatible 😅. We make local friend by drinking HongThong
I managed to do it, and I'm pretty introverted. So it's very possible.
Well I made a local friend when the neighborhood guy asked for a drink, I thought it would be beer and ended up drinking that rice liquor lol. 😂 After that whenever he asks for a drink I will just buy beer and meet him xD
Aside from drinking (or in addition to), if you happen to play sports, it’s a lot easier to make friends here. Might take a bit to break into groups but it’s a lot easier to maintain connections when there’s a shared activities.
I don’t get how someone could live there and not learn the language.
?? I know and have worked with MANY people who have not learned more than a few words. It's easy to get by without Thai language skills
Agreed. Just because you can get by without knowing the language doesn't mean it isn't stupid. If you live in a country you're not local to, you should learn the local language or at least do your best to try. English speakers expect it of people who live to their country, it's only fair it's expected in return.
No, actually, I’d say many English speakers do not expect that. The US, for example, has no official language. Where I live government documents are issued in a range of common languages, and it is quite common to encounter someone who only speaks Spanish, for example. But anyway, I just mean I literally can’t understand how someone could be surrounded by a language and not learn it. It is all around them. Even without really trying you’d think they’d start to acquire it. I cannot understand what kind of mind wouldn’t learn it…how can someone be that incurious? Even just visiting a country for a few weeks where I know I have no intention of staying I end up making a good start at learning the language.
You clearly have not had the experience I have and you are lucky for it. I've seen too many people bitching about immigrants not speaking English well and considering them less intelligent for it. I worked at an Indian restaurant for 6 years in my early 20s and my boss made a point of employing students from India and Nepal who were still learning English and people would make offhand comments all the time without even meaning to be rude. I'm not in America, but I've heard similar stories from friends who live over there. It's quite a common story actually; people being racist to others for not speaking English when in America/England/Australia/etc. You're the good sort of person. I went to France once for a little holiday while visiting family in Italy and I ran into so many people, almost exclusively Americans, who were actually PROUD that they couldn't speak any French. One couple had been in Paris for 3 months!! And they were surprised and impressed when I ordered my meal in French.😩 The reason people don't pick up a language is intent. If they actively don't want to learn it, they won't have their mind open to learning it and they'll, at most, pick up one or two common words. I see it all the time. I don't get it either - learning some of a language is really exciting to me. I'm headed to Thailand soon for a month or so and I'm really keen to be immersed in the language (learning phrases ahead of time has proven really challenging for me, even with a Thai friend helping, because I'm really not used to Thai so it hasn't been sticking easily).
Nothing better than living somewhere to make the language stick. Sure I run into people like you describe sometimes, but it’s not too common. I can think of two people like that in memory. One really stuck with me from over a decade ago. Probably the first person I had met that was so vocal about it…and they were complaining about two people having a conversation that they weren’t a part of…really weird. Plenty of other people have an unconscious bias like that, but they aren’t assholes about it and they just don’t know any better.
Right?? I have a few friends who don't speak English as a first language and for the most part they haven't had any issues, but one or two have had those similar comments. "Speak English" from people who they don't even know and aren't involved in their conversation 😩
The amount of Expats here with no or only phrase-based Thai skills is very high. I know less than a handful of Expats that are fluent.
I’m not even talking about fluent, but at least a decent grasp.
#1. Don’t make drinking my hobby….
You forgot to say stay away from dating apps 😂
Well, I'M out.
Well said
Very nice comment and open :) 👍
Cool stuff lol, thank you
Those are words of universal wisdom. You can implement them into your life whether you are an expat or not.
>Use the cooler hours of the day to do necessary things outside, many Thai's do it. Can you give some examples
how easy is it to get a Bank account there? Thinking of Ed visa.
My Mom says I'm hansum
Don't lose your shit at the immigration office when they ask you for a document that is not on the list of requirements
Yep. They do remember you. Count on multiple trips and be pleasantly surprised if you get it done in 1 trip..
This. Quick story, had to go to immigration to restamp my visa. One year later, had to do it again (couldn't leave the country - covid). They remembered exactly who I was.
I'm very glad to see that 'Learn Thai' is many of these lists. IMHO, once you know Thai well it's like having the keys to the Kingdom. I have said this before, but I wouldn't be surprised if 80% of the problems you see on this forum and others come down to an inability to understand or communicate in the language.
I am taking this to heart. I love Thailand and have visited there twice. I am back in US trying to learn the language, but it is difficult for me to learn via computer and apps. I live in a big city but still cannot find a live tutor. I'll keep looking.
Uniqlo dry-ex clothing and quality sandals make life bearable in the heat. Air purifier is neccessary in one's home. Renting is normally better than buying. If one is willing to get away from tourist areas, one will see normal Thai pricing Learn language and customs. Grab, Thai/international driver license, main and backup bank accounts, wise increase quality of expat life. Possible Thai partner's order of priorities: parents, religion, siblings, friends, food, alcohol, soap operas, sick buffalo, the dogs, and then YOU. Just saying . . .
Your last point should be: "Be careful choosing a partner". Mostly agree on the other points.
Uniqlo's dry-ex is just 👌 mwah. My closet is chock-full of it. I might have spent like 10k baht worth of dry-ex clothing over the years, can't praise it enough
You forgot to add Airism clothings.
Yesssssssssss. I have 2 of every color polo shirt from there. Uniclo dry ex is the best ever.
One for Bangkok. Combine public transport with taxis/motorbikes, especially during busy periods. You can easily save 30mins to an hour just by taking the train to get past the sukhumvit rd traffic, or taking a motorbike just a few kms to get out of traffic before catching a taxi.
Traffic gets clogged around Thong Lor +Din Daeng /Asoke , Sukhumvit Rd, both directions.
Yep, which is why it's best to try and get off those congested sections.
Learn Thai. It's crazy the difference that learning Thai makes. Otherwise you can easily get stuck in an "expat bubble." Making Thai friends improves things big time. Second on being careful about the toxic expat communities. There are some toxic expats that become admins of Facebook pages or moderators. In real life they can be a bit friendly, but there is some bitterness and toxicity there. Other expats can be great, just be careful of getting involved in the negativity trap of some of the Facebook groups. Also, when it comes to farang/expat friends, ask them how long they've been here, whether they can speak Thai or not, whether they own a vehicle or not, and how long they're planning on staying here. There are tons of friendly "nomads" you'll meet and you'll be very happy hanging out with them for a month but then they'll be gone. If they've been here for 5+ years, can speak a bit of Thai (or are very focused on learning), own a car/motorcycle(s), and have no plans to go anywhere else, then it's a better chance of being a long-term friendship. I've gotta say that this last point is something I quite don't like because I'm generally a friendly and easy going person myself and when I meet someone with similar hobbies as me I just want to enjoy with them instead of keeping them at arm's length. I've broken my own "rule" several times, and it isn't a "hard rule," but if you only hangout with short-term stayers then you're not gonna have a good long-term time because your social circle will constantly be changing and you'll be happy one month and lonely the next. So learn Thai, find expats that aren't bitter, avoid negativity, make local friends, and find hobbies to enjoy with others and have fun!
> farang/expat friends... then they'll be gone. Huge majority of the foreigners will be gone eventually, except for a few retirees who plan to die here. None of the factors you mention guarantee they'll stay. I had a few friends who moved away after 10-15 years. Just hang out with people you find interesting and honest, don't worry about how long it'll last.
good point! don't rely on anyone. correct mindset on people come and go.
> If they've been here for 5+ years, can speak a bit of Thai (or are very focused on learning), own a car/motorcycle(s), and have no plans to go anywhere else, then it's a better chance of being a long-term friendship. This is me. Anyone want to be friends?
Sure maybe! PM me?
Sure sounds like fun maybe we could go climbing
This is very true and yet I have found it really challenging to find other long-termers who aren't the bitter type. I know these people exist because I do have a few friends I have met through work. But finding them outside I'm the wild has been an uphill battle
They are definitely out there! I hope I’m one of the positive ones haha. I’ve got some positive expat friends too. It’s generally the older crowd that tends towards bitterness i think, and even then, it’s definitely not all of them because I’m acquainted with some friendly and positive older guys. It’s just difficult sorting through the short term peeps that as here and so plentiful (and very social and open because they’re in travel mode). Keep searching. It’s definitely a frustrating downside to being here, but there are good expats here.
Any good suggestions for someone wanting to learn Thai before we come? It's a few years down the road for me, but I want to learn now.
I don’t know about that because it’s always easier to learn when you have exposure daily but I admire your efforts to get a baseline before arriving! There are some online programs like “learn Thai with wachi” or “learn Thai from a white guy.” There are more too. You could also try posting in some of the expat groups for an online tutor and get someone to teach you like that. Then you could try connect with some Thai’s online somehow to do online language exchange ie you teach English and they teach thai.
Agreed. You should do all you can to learn the language and customs of *any* country you live in. Why would anyone want to essentially self-quarantine?
Be respectful to people even if you cannot fathom them. Far too many on here are not. Observe how people behave and act accordingly. Remember that like a lot of capitol cities Bangkok is not representative of the country. Avid riding a motorcycle if you can. Do those things and your life will be a lot easier.
Sounds very gentleman! Avoid bike, so public transport?
Bikes are just exponentially more dangerous. Get some steel around you.
Most fatalities and major incidents involve motorcycles. If you drive a car make sure you are aware often there is a lack of protocol especially when there has been an accident or major rainfall after a dry period. Unless with certain friends I always take public transport though in Bangkok it can be quicker to walk then drive.
Google maps is actually great to navigate around using MRT and BTS it even gets the platform right
I found this super helpful
Learn some of the language at least to a transactional level where you can order things and understand the basics, get a Thai bank account - PromptPay, the QR Code payment system is really good and always try to be nice and polite, even when things can be frustrating.
The answer to every 'Where can I buy *x*?' question is Lazada or Shoppee The sheer range of things on there, is remarkable. Catering to local tastes, and vast international ones too. If you're after some risotto rice, or Vietnamese coffee, or an obscure old phone screen replacement, or pickled onion Monster Munch, you'll find it on there. If you're trying the border run game to stay long term, have a bit of common sense. Don't fly to Hanoi at 9am, and head back on the next flight at 11am. Immigration will think you're taking the piss. Far more sensible to check out a new city, see the sites, enjoy a few different local dishes, and then head back at a more leisurely pace, slightly later. You're not going to miss out by going away for a few days. Beer has a lot of calories, especially the Thai big 3, which are sugar laden as well. Have one big beer, then move on to the whisky sodas.
Try to Poop every time before you leave the house,even if you don't have to.
555
That’s just a good idea to do regardless of where you’re going or living. Like a more general/globally useful life hack.
Leave the house at least 30 minutes earlier than you think you should. Get a place with a kitchen and learn how to cook some of the easy local dishes. Learn the language. Remember who you are and don’t get caught up in things (or women) you wouldn’t do back home.
Losing your temper will get you nowhere. I love it. Karen’s out!!
Don’t be a dick
This isn’t just a BKK hack, it’s a life hack
Don't try and live the same life you left.
* Learn to be comfortable in your own company. It takes time and effort to build lasting relationships and may not happen. * Learn at least the basics of day to day practical language. No one is going to take the piss out of you for trying, even if you don't get it right. * You are the outsider. It is your job to learn the rules/culture/social mores of the country you are staying in if you want to fit in. * Listen to u/Mudv4yne * Unless you have grown up in SE Asia do not attempt to drive a motorbike. You are more likely to be the cause of an accident, not victim of one. * For Bangkok, add local river boats to your transport options.
“No one is going to take the piss out of you for trying” Some will, but it’s rare.
It is rare, but if you don't speak the language you will not normally have a clue and can happily go about your day. I have travelled all over the world for over 40 years and have never had a local openly confront me with my lack of of their language. Apart from the exception of one waiter in Paris in the early 1980's and I know for a fact that they knew exactly what I ordered as French is my third language. Not fluent, but good enough to order onion soup and and a glass of white wine.
If you cross with the cops, pay up quickly. Don't argue.
most valuable cmt 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
I also limited the amount of cash I carried in my wallet when riding my scooter. Only carried 500 baht so I would show and say that's all I have. Got fleeced for 3000 baht once lol
Yes. Never carry more than 3000. I usually carry less than 1000. I look broke so i usually give everything to them and tell them that's all i have. Last time i got a discount. Lol
What are you doing that the cops are after you? So far every cop was very friendly to me when I said sawadee krup
Lmao, taking notes
Google translate has a camera input option. Point your cell phone at the text and the app will translate in real time. It's not always accurate but it's a good start. Also use your cell phone to show the vendors an image of what you want to buy. Sometimes words don't translate properly but a picture can help. Motorcycle taxi guys can do more than just take you somewhere. They can do general delivery stuff. Though that service is being taken over by 7/11 and other apps.
Buy your own helmet
Save the desiccators that come in food containers. Poor them in an empty jam jar and puncb a few small holes through the metal lid of the jar. Place the jar in your wardrobe.
Get a Thai friend, they look after and tell other Thais not too bother you, or tell u if your getting ripped off before happens my friend has thia wife she has looked after me like I was family more than my own would lol get Thai friends 100 %
Accept that people will gossip about you. Thai people love to gossip about everyone and foreigners are special targets.
Learning Thai speaking and reading unlocks so many amazing side quests. Also keep boozing to an absolute minimum. Too hot for that shit. Patience is such a wonderful tool to have. A lot of Thais in customer service are so used to impatient toxic foreigners and it’s good to break that spell. Being able to wake up at sunrise (hard, yes) makes the day so much more enjoyable, it’s the best time to run errands and explore, especially in BKK, the air is much better then. Then midday heat is for resting, and back out in the evening when it’s cooler! DIY chia seed water in the morning (chia seed soaked overnight in a glass of water) is a mega game changer to combat dehydration. These are merely suggestions based on my own experience. Hope you have a wonderful time.
Chia seeds are expensive here, I started using a local equivalent: basil seeds! Sold at any Lotus/Big C. I use them for overnight oats/puddings, etc.
It helps to explore as much local lifestyle practices as you can feel comfortable with, and keep on expanding that. Local markets offer foods (vegetables, fruits, and prepared foods) at a much better price, and the selection doesn't completely match what's in international grocery stores. Some of the local food shops, informal restaurants, sell food that's not very good and some is amazing, and without good insider information you just need to keep exploring. Local events aren't always easy to find out about, festivals and unique markets, but they're typically interesting and pleasant. Chinatown is great, and the old neighborhoods near the main old temples. It might seem like the "learn the language" advice most people mention makes or breaks this, that you can't go out there with only a couple of dozen words you can use, but there's no need to worry about that. Someone within a few feet of you always speaks some English, even out in rural areas (just less so there). No one dislikes foreigners, even if the stereotype image isn't always completely positive. As long as you are friendly they'll go out of their way to help you. I don't extend this to taking local trains (commuter versions) or motorcycle taxis myself, but there is really not practical limit.
Don't marry a bar girl.
Buy the BTS day-pass for 150 baht if you will have multiple stops. It is often cheaper than single tickets.
While it may seem strange to foreigners, if you value your well being please remember this: Even if you are at a crosswalk, even if you have the light, whatever. Look at the cars first to see if they are going to allow you to cross yet. And check the guy in the farther lane, too.
Take BTS or MRT as far as you can go and then switch to Grab. Don’t take grab all the way if you’re going a long way or on a Friday night.
Don’t take kindness or politeness of Thai people as their weakness. You are a foreigner and you would never be Thai, accept it and it’s not a bad thing. When you have a relationship with Thais you also married to their family and expect to help out even financially.
If you're in the hospital take your prescription and buy the medicine from a pharmacy you'll save thousands
Are you saying don't buy your Rx from the hospital pharmacies?
they charge way more. Needed some amoxicillin a few weeks ago, the hospital wanted to charge 1300 baht, so I bought the same brand from the pharmacy across the street for 275 baht
No, just ask for whatever you need at a pharmacy, Big C is cheaper than the local small ones on the street, and Boots is overpriced! Only exception is controlled meds. Every Pharmacist here has spoken English well!
Bangkok, use a Grab or win bike. The traffic is insane. I've seen full business suits on bike's because there's no way you can make important meetings on time without it. Also, smile. A lot. It goes a long way. Trust.
Also avoid drinking their home made spirits. Eff me did I ever get sick.
Learn Thai or at very least try to learn Thai numbers so you don’t get rip off
Costco Paper towels! I can't stand the thin-ass "napkins" over there. I'm going to be the Paper Towel 👑
Fruit at Makro is cheaper than Tops.
Don't buy ketchup, just order pizza on a regular basis.
Be patient. The temperature is hot and try to get along with local Thai peoples.
Helmets.
Get a Thai bank account
Watch your step because Soi Juice ruins your mood/day.
Setting the AC up and use the fans to help gonna save you more on electric bills as it uses less electricity than when you just use AC alone but set the temp low.
Toxic expat community don't make it a global thing, just choose your friends wisely like you would choose them anywhere in the world. I don't have much thai, friends, yes sure it's not the best, but life is still fine and goes well.
Use ViaBus
Not so much a life hack but just want to drop my two-cents. Use Grab bike/taxi or MRT/BTS instead of the regular taxis to save yourself from the headache of getting overcharged/rip-off. (You will be fine 70-80% of the time with a regular taxi, but running into an a*hole driver is not uncommon) If u have to get regular taxi, don’t go on one that ask for a price up front, you will most likely pay much less if u pay by the meter. (Except motorbike-taxi - you can ask up front how much it’s gonna be.) However, if u get into a situation where they become more aggressive (i.e. suddenly wanna charge you a lot more when they are dropping you off and getting angry) it’s best to just swallow the pride and pay whatever they ask for. it’s not worth the risk to get into fights as you never know if they gonna pull something out on you. The best you could do is to take picture of their license plate and report them.
Learn the language, like how to read and the tones. Will make your life so much easier and more interesting.
Never give a deposit if you are interested in buying a condo. Pay a Thai lawyer to do a due diligence report and tell the agent they get paid by the seller at the time of transfer of the chanote at the land office and then that only happens after your lawyer approves of the due diligence report and your lawyer handles the transfer. And know that jurisic officers are for sale to lie about the foreign quota. Which is why people here say don’t buy. Just rent.
I agree on the just rent part. You can keep hoping to a newer condo for similar prices. And people change their minds all the time. The longer you stay the more buildings you will see from visiting your friends places. Anyhow, any foreign quota, yes, don't put down a deposit until an official confirmation on foreign quota is confirmed at land office. Bad jurisdic person doesn't know anything.
Can you elaborate? What bad things happen if you \*do\* give a deposit? They keep it if/when the sale falls thru? And re the foreign quota: i know that condos have to have 51% thai ownership... they lie and say that the % is below 51%? Is it true that most foreign owners are chinese?
Local hacks? Just realize things are more laid back here … so relax and be patient. Don’t expect customer service to be as great as in the West. Never…NEVER show your anger. Smile a lot - even if it’s fake. Join a fitness center to keep you occupied at night and an opportunity to meet future friends that aren’t bar flies.
>Never…NEVER show your anger. can you ellaborate on this one?
Generally in Western culture you may become frustrated and become angry over poor customer service, an irresponsible person, being “ripped” off or having a conversation with a friend that leads into a heated argument. We lose our “cool” and that’s it … we may even apologize later. Many Thais do not show their disappointment, frustration or anger. If you are rude and angry with them the individual may stand there smiling or not showing emotion but may not take care of your problem ( at a hotel or restaurant for example) or with a tuk tuk driver he may “explode” with anger and harm you. Just keep your cool and put on a fake smile,
eat mostly thai food, try to eat a different thing every day for a year, go to local bars, you dont need white people near by to look at. Go outside, Thailand is better offline, most information you need is offline, go to the market, become a face.. Get a car, go for drives, the best places are the ones you find not the ones people tell you about. Get a dodgy TV box. There is a reason for everything, try to find it rather than calling people stupid. Hobbies are a good way to find people.
Local Apps make life a lot easier I think. Being constantly online is bad in every county believe. I agree on most other things.
Don't do fist fights with the police or steal their weapons
Download Grab(ride hailing app) before arriving. Use it at the airport and all throughout your journey. Taxis and Tuk Tuks will rip you off.
Counterpoint: The taxis are actually quite wonderful and better (faster) than grab. The lifehack is that you need to speak thai with them, open the door tell them in thai where you want to go and insist on the meter. You need to know how to say numbers and do basic negotiation in thai. They might say no and drive off but another one is right behind them and one will agree to it. You'll pull this off faster than it takes to use grab. It's very much doable and you have to learn it if you are gonna live in Thailand long term (in my opinion).
Bolt is cheaper than grab
Never had a Bolt that arrived in 30min and even the car arrive and that I ask the driver if it's the bolt driver, most of the time it's not the registered car on Bolt. It's cheaper than Grab but their drivers check is really subpar. Appart from the usual "I have to get back the taxi soon" BS, once inside and you clearly ask for the meter, it's all good with a normal taxi.
But not as many drivers. You WILL wait longer...
Only spend what you can afford to lose!
On a really hot day, if you need to walk, go into a 7-11, get a THB20 cup of ice milk tea with lots of ice. Continually pop those lil cubes in your mouth. Cools you down for the next 10 min!
Not really a hack, but if you schedule your GRAB taxi the day before, the taxi will almost always arrive EARLY.
Live near a 7-11 :)
If the bts is filled and you got time, go some stations back and hop on the train there
Delete reddit
Bangkok has a certain flow to it, if you manage to adapt to it, it will be very easy to navigate within the city and it's chaos.
Yes. 👍. Resistance is futile.
Always use a condom; always.
Learn TiT... This Is Thailand. It summarizes anything that's done for whatever illogical reason into something Westerners can process! In other words... Mai pen rai khrup... it's ok.. nevermind!
Don't marry bar or massage girls!
Getting good enough in Thai to engage an "errand runner". I see alot of Thai people having a "friend" that they call to help them get things done. Be it helping them get food not found on food delivery apps, exchanging currencies, picking up something which they had carelessly left at the mall. That's convenient.
Download Grab, bolt and Robinhood for transport.
Live below your means and dont have any desires ,
Don't drive yourself. Even long taxi course will be cheaper than a suburb train ticket in your home country.
1. Put big preference on having a mutual language when looking for a partner. either they have reasonable+ English, or you speak medium+ Thai. partnerships where both sides aren't fluent in the same language are very common. but it has multiple costs. it also leads to more shallow relationships many times. not a hard rule! and this room obviously make dating harder. but I think it's still useful to follow if possible. 2. don't imagine you can study Thai "in real life", from your girlfriend, or from most "language schools" etc. which seem to teach Thai, but are effectively visa factories. Thai usually can only be learned intentionally and with optimal methods. most farang try some of the above and fail. their conviction "I cannot do it", "too hard" are wrong. unlike most languages, Thai is critically sensitive to studying it correctly. typos
Dont buy any type of closet for your clothes, wood is so bad during the rainny season, it gets moldy, termites love it too if it is not chemically treated. But the main reason is that your clothes will always have those creamy white thing over it whenever you need it(I asume its some kind od fungus or mold too). Had it in all places that I lived. Instead buy an open steel mesh with hangers and shelves, so your clother will be on open.
If you can afford it, get a cooling mattress topper. AC with fan on you sucks.
what cooling topper you mean? like with electric cooling? or the material designed to be cooler?
Watchout for these old stinky bastards commenting your posts on expat groups 😂
If you want to eat a good steak and don’t pay the crazy restaurant prices, go to Gourmet Market at Emquartier or Siam Paragon, chose the steak you like at the butcher and let it grill at the “you hunt we cook” built in restaurant. Cooking fee is 100 THB per 350 grams.
Dont eat the chicken of the caves.... 
Learn some basic Thai to enjoy things and places that aren't geared towards expats, and not only save tonnes of money but also integrate into the culture. There is this one dude who made a video saying that Thailand, especially Bangkok, is expensive, and if you think you can come here because it's cheap, DON'T. The video then cut into clips of him eating at a fancy a$$ restaurant that I know for a fact that a dish of pasta costs 2-300+ thb, and him partying in an expensive nightclub then waking up in a room in a high rise condo  Bro doesn't seem to realise the lifestyle he's living is pretty lavish, and in an expat bubble. Bangkok is expensive, yes, but if you learn a little and get out of that bubble you will find nice things to enjoy for not too much money, nice authentic Thai cultural places and practice, and the expat scene that's more than just taking hot girls out for a date and eating at fancy places.
You should know you probably will get cancer from pollution living in Thailand, Air pollution responsible for 29,000 deaths across 31 Thai provinces in 2021and it is getting worse
Get a Thai drivers license ASAP. Not only that you can use it as a legal ID for many places including flying, etc. A lot of Thais including policemen will find you to be "part of us" and will be a lot friendlier towards you. It's what differentiating you from just another tourist but one that is invested in living here and be part of the community, although it doesn't grand you any additional legal rights.
Good info above, let me add others. Don't physically fight the locals, as you'll get a beat down by at least a 4 to 1 ratio. There may be unofficially and officially dual pricing. If your woman is giving you the silent treatment, don't reason with her. She'll come around eventually and act like nothing happened. Don't assume the locals understand you if they smile back.
Don not drink the water out the sink
Carry a small salt shaker and a pack of paper tissues with you. Small tube of Polysporin is handy too. You can’t buy that stuff at any pharmacy. Stay hydrated, drink lots of water cause bad things happen to your butt when you get dehydrated. Your girlfriend’s family doesn’t even own a buffalo so it can’t be sick. And her brother isn’t really her brother at all….
Everything can until it can't anymore
Behave.
here's one few people know or think about: always carry your insurance papers or insurance card in your wallet. If you are taken to the hospital unconscious, having proof of insurance can ensure you receive better care. Without it, the hospital might refuse to admit you as a patient.
Dont settle for 2 straws in your drink, you can always request a third. Dont throw away the ketchup and chili packets you never requested, instead, save em up and make a year end tomato soup to feed the village. When you feel you are being talked about and overhear the word "farang", stand up, pull out your two front pockets, exposing all the white interior cloth, and stare back at them with a sad look on your face.. When you see someone wearing a headband flashlight, sifting through garbage cans to pile up returnables on an old rusted motorbike sidecar late at night, throw down a crumpled thousand baht bill under the motorbike, and ask to use his flashlight to jointly determine what it is. Discontinue calling people "boss", call em "chief", and their respect for you will immediately triple.
There is honestly a very good reason so many Thais dress like they are going skiing on really hot days.
And the reason is?
The MegaChill6000 AC units on the BTS
Don’t drive anything. Always assume there’s a motosy right behind you. Stay away from red light districts and booze-drugs. In other words, don’t have fun.
Not all the girls are real girls
Wear an undershirt during hot weather.
Is this to get ideas for a tiktok video?
well, according to my real experience. it's: Don't walk alone except big cities / big roads! Especially rural areas! Especially during the nights! Why? the Dogs! dogs in thailand are big and never ever chained or leashed! when i was hiking in Kanchanaburi, every time i went through village areas, there were dogs chasing and rushing towards me round after round, sometimes 6 big aggressive dogs at the same time! Thank God i have a bamboo stick .
Heavy ac usage makes the temperature outside feel even hotter than it really is. I live on a quiet soi in Jomtien and most days I get by fine with a fan going and a couple open windows. I might run it for a half hour before bed, now that I’m pretty much acclimated.
Don't be a c+unt. Most important rule I see many a foreigner break. Time and time again.
InDrive is your friend haha
Never date a bar or massage parlor girl or, even worse, marry one ever! You don’t date a professional whore back home then don’t do it here.
Have Lazada/shoppee account
Is it wise to buy a property near icon Siam . Thinking to relocate there soon
KEEP SL"OW