Are you considering a move to Thailand? If so, you likely have many questions about what life would be like in this beautiful and exotic country.
This guide is written by Stefano Gonella, an experienced expat, relocation consultant, and property contractor living, who has lived in Thailand for several years and helped dozens of expats move to this beautiful country.
In this post, Stefano will answer some of the most common questions he receives from people considering relocating to Thailand. From the cost of living to cultural differences, Stefano will provide insight and advice to help you decide whether Thailand is the right place for you.
Does Thailand have a good climate?
Thailand has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm and humid pretty much all year round. There are three main seasons to keep in mind.
First up, we’ve got the hot season from March to May. During this time, temperatures can soar up to 35°C (95°F) – yikes! But it’s also the driest season, so you won’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain.
Next, we’ve got the rainy season, which runs from June to October. You guessed it – there’s a lot of rain during this time, so be prepared for some heavy downpours and occasional flooding. The southern and eastern regions tend to get hit the hardest.
Finally, there’s the cool season from November to February. This is the best time because temperatures are a bit cooler, ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F).
The north can get pretty chilly at night; you might need a jumper.
Keep in mind that Thailand’s climate can vary depending on where you are in the country. The north is drier and cooler, while the South is more humid and tropical. The east coast gets more rain than the west coast, and the Central region experiences a mix of all three seasons.
Are there a lot of expats living in Thailand?
Thailand is home to a thriving expat community. Many foreigners choose to live in Thailand either full-time or part-time.
Retirees, in particular, love Thailand for its warm climate and low cost of living. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy sunny days and affordable prices, right? Check our guide on the cost of living in Thailand to see how inexpensive the country is.
Families also choose to live in Thailand, as there are many international schools and family-friendly areas.
Thailand has become a hot spot for digital nomads in recent years. Places like Chiang Mai have a growing community of remote workers who love taking advantage of Thailand’s low cost of living, fast internet, and overall comfortable lifestyle.
You can find a list of the most popular expat hotspots in our Best Places To Live In Thailand guide.
What long-stay visas and residency options are available in Thailand?
As a tourist, you’ll automatically get a 30-day visa when you enter the country. If you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa at the immigration office for an additional four weeks by paying 1,900 baht. After that, you have to leave and re-enter the country. You can do so two times.
Ideally, it’s better to apply for a non-immigrant visa. For example, you could get a 1-year education visa by enrolling in a language or Thai boxing school. Or, you could get a business visa if a Thai company hires you.
There are options for retirees, investors, and wealthy expats too. You can find more information on them in our Thailand Visa And Residency Options guide.
If you’re interested in a long-stay visa, it’s always a good idea to work with a local lawyer to ensure you have all the necessary documents. That way, you can avoid getting bogged down in paperwork and get back to enjoying everything that Thailand has to offer.
How humid is Thailand?
Thailand is quite humid. It can get pretty sticky here, thanks to the humidity. If you’re someone who doesn’t handle heat well, it might be a bit of a challenge.
The humidity level varies depending on where you are in the country. The southern regions tend to be more humid, while the north tends to be drier most of the time.
If you’re living somewhere in the South, you’ll learn how to cope with the humidity. For example, you might learn tricks like storing your clothes in a wardrobe without doors or using an AC or dehumidifier to keep your room feeling fresh and dry.
Plus, as a property contractor, I can assure you that well-built properties are designed in a way that takes advantage of natural airflow. This can help keep the inside of the house ventilated and prevent mold from growing.
Even if the humidity takes some getting used to, there are ways to make it work for you. Also, remember that the high humidity can actually be great for your skin. It helps keep it soft and hydrated.
Are there mosquitoes in Thailand?
Thailand is home to many insects and mosquitoes, but they’re not usually very aggressive. You do get bitten more if you venture into the jungle during the rainy season or at sunrise and sunset when mosquitoes are especially active, but otherwise, you should be okay.
To avoid getting bitten, wearing long trousers instead of shorts or a skirt is a good idea. Mosquitoes are also said to be more attracted to dark colors, so wearing lighter clothing can help. If you have air-conditioning, that can also help keep the mosquitoes out of your home since they don’t like the cooler temperatures.
Mosquito nets and repellents are also a great way to keep the bugs at bay.
There are some cases of dengue fever, but they’re limited to certain areas and are most common during the rainy season. Even if you do catch it, it’s like a strong flu and can usually be treated within a week.
So, while bugs and mosquitoes might be a part of life in Thailand, they’re not usually a major problem as long as you take some simple precautions.
How bad is the burning season in Thailand?
Burning season in Thailand can be quite bad, especially in the northern regions of the country. Farmers burn their fields to clear out the old crops and prepare the land for new ones. It typically occurs between February and April, and during this time, the air quality can be very poor. Some expats in the northern areas, especially in Chiang Mai, go traveling during this time to avoid pollution.
Can foreigners buy property in Thailand?
This is not straightforward, as foreigners cannot purchase land in Thailand and cannot own land in their own name.
If you’re a foreigner and interested in buying a property in Thailand, there are a few options available:
- Leasehold: You can lease land and buildings for up to 30 years, with the option to renew the lease for another 30 years.
- Condominiums: You can own up to 49% of the units in a condo building. This is a popular choice if you want to own a property and have the flexibility to sell it later.
- Thai Company: You can create a Thai company and buy property under its name. But this option is complicated and expensive, so it’s best to get legal advice before doing it.
Is it easy to set up a company in Thailand?
Setting up your business in Thailand can be relatively straightforward, but it can also be complex and time-consuming. You need to register your business with the Department of Business Development, obtain a tax ID number, and acquire any necessary licenses and permits.
You can choose from a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so pick one that suits your business.
As a foreigner, you need a Non-Immigrant Business Visa to start a Thai company. This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days and can be extended for a year.
Getting a Non-Immigrant Business Visa can have some great benefits. It will give you legal status to conduct business in Thailand, so you can rest assured that everything is above board.
Once your company is set up, you can apply for a work permit, which allows you to work legally in Thailand. That means you can focus on building your business without worrying about legal issues.
With this visa, you’ll be able to access Thai banking services. This is a big help when it comes to managing your business transactions.
Just remember that it’s always a good idea to get legal advice before setting up your company to ensure you’re following all the regulations and avoiding any potential complications.
Can I buy a property off-plan?
Buying an off-plan villa has its benefits. You get more say in the design and layout of your property, which means you can work with the developer or builder to create a property that suits your needs and preferences.
By buying off-plan, you can choose the materials, finishes, and appliances that go into your kitchen, ensuring it is of high quality and up to your standards. This can be especially useful if you’re after a larger or more customized kitchen that you might not find in pre-built villas.
What’s more, buying off-plan can be a more affordable option than buying a pre-built villa. You may be able to negotiate a lower price or take advantage of early-bird discounts.
I cannot stress enough the importance of dying your due diligence when looking for a contractor or developer in Thailand.
If in doubt, you can always contact me at Krabi Contractor Co., Ltd. before buying a villa in Thailand. We can provide valuable insight and expertise to help you make an informed decision about your investment. We also have a network of contacts and resources that allows us to offer support in other locations throughout Thailand.
We have experience, local knowledge, and a commitment to quality. You can trust that your villa renovation or construction project will be completed to a high standard.
Kitchens in Thai properties
In Thailand, kitchens are typically sold without appliances, although some developers may offer packages that include appliances. It is common for homeowners to purchase their own appliances separately.
In general, kitchens in Thai homes and apartments tend to be smaller than those in Western countries. However, many new developments offer larger, more modern kitchens to attract foreign buyers.
If you are looking for a larger or more customized kitchen, it may be possible to work with a contractor or kitchen designer to create a bespoke kitchen that meets your specific requirements. This can be more expensive than purchasing a pre-built kitchen, but it can be a good option if you have specific needs or preferences.
Is healthcare free in Thailand for foreigners?
Health insurance in Thailand works differently for locals and expats. Thai citizens are covered by the government’s Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS), which provides basic healthcare services free of charge. Private health insurance is also available for those who want to access additional services or receive care at private hospitals.
Expats living in Thailand are not covered by the UCS and must purchase private health insurance. There are many private health insurance providers in Thailand that offer a range of coverage options, including inpatient and outpatient care, emergency treatment, and maternity care.
It is also possible to purchase health insurance from international providers that offer coverage for expats living in Thailand. International health insurance can be quite expensive. To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal.
Can you drink tap water in Thailand?
Generally, I would not recommend drinking tap water in Thailand as it may not be safe due to the possibility of bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. So, it’s best to play it safe and opt for bottled water instead. It’s really cheap, and you can find it at most convenience stores, supermarkets, and street vendors.
Another thing to keep in mind is the ice in drinks, as it may be made from tap water. When you’re out and about, it’s always a good idea to ask if the ice is made from purified water or skip it altogether to be on the safe side.
Can I live in Thailand without speaking Thai?
Yes, it is totally possible to live in Thailand without knowing Thai, especially if you plan to stay in tourist areas or expat communities where many locals speak English.
However, learning some basic Thai phrases can be very helpful in daily life, especially if you venture outside tourist areas or interact with locals in markets, shops, or restaurants.
Also, learning the Thai language can help you better understand and appreciate the local culture and make it easier to navigate daily life in Thailand.
If you need assistance with your relocation, Stefano is a Hexedes relocation advisor and provides full relocation services to Thailand. Contact us, and we will put you in touch with Stefano.
You might find useful:
- Living In Koh Samui
- Living In Krabi
- Best Areas To Live In Bangkok
- Didn’t find what you were looking for? Comment with your question, and we will do our best to help.
Helpful external links:
- Thailand travel information – tourismthailand.org
- Thailand electronic visa – thaievisa.go.th
