I'll try to tell you about what surprised me in the life of the Thais, not at all what it seems to us to many!
For example, I can tell you why Thais with narrow eyes live in Thailand at all, and not Russians, for example.
Here are some unusual things from the life of an ordinary Thai:
It is not customary for Thais to call anyone by name, but why is that?, but everything is simple, if you called a Thai by his real name (and you are not his friend at all), then all the spirits protecting him immediately lose their power, like this. Therefore, in the passport, the Thai will also not have his real name (and the Cambodian), but the nickname by which he wants to be called, well, let's say, like our guide to Angkor Wat, Mr. Bunny, that is, a rabbit. And all Thais call about the same, let's say Piglet. And so they can call some minister. And this nickname, if suddenly a Thai decided that something went wrong in his life, he changes it to any other without any problems. By the way, they are very fond of all sorts of European sonorous names (for nicknames), let's say the Thai guide, Sarah, followed the whole path with us. Even the cities in Thailand have nicknames, most people know it, for the same reason above. That is, Bangkok is a nickname, it is not Bangkok at all, but a city from a long word, which the Thai will say in a chant for about 10 minutes.
The Thai day is not divided into 24 hours at all, but is divided into several parts that are completely incomprehensible to a European, well, something like until the midday sun and so on.
Many people think that the usual Thai food is this, and they crack it on both cheeks as much as their ears are wrapped-
This is of course not true, all these cockroaches, larvae and other living creatures are food for crazy tourists who think that the Thais eat it.
And the Thais eat really, in remote cities they can also eat frogs, for example (I ate on Samet, where they are simply sold live in bundles in the usual market).
Thais, by the way, for the most part, do not know how to cook at all, well, absolutely, they won’t even fry eggs, and I’ll tell you why. In Tai, apartments do not have a kitchen at all, they don’t have such a corner, no stove, no kettle there. This is their standard of living. And all Thais eat only in eateries, restaurants, cafes, of which there are plenty of darkness in Thailand.
The Thais have a cult of white skin, even a deodorant bought in any store and it will be in Thailand with a whitening effect. Thais go to beauty salons just for whitening and spend a lot of money on it. And if you tell a Thai that you went, for example, to a spa and specially sunbathed there under the lamps, then they will take you for a crazy person, a fact.
The average Thai has 3 cars per family, does not clean the apartment, does not cook food at all, and his earnings are approximately 90-100 thousand on average. So all Thais spend money mainly on hobbies.
Surely you ask, who then cleans the streets for them, waits, irons their linen and cleans the apartments. Yes, these are the same emigrants who neighboring countries a dime a dozen, and who are simply bursting into Tai, this beautiful country. On the borders with all the poor states, if you go you will surely see their huge settlements in small houses. Well resort towns all are populated by emigrants.
About massage, the massage that we call Thai, in fact, is not Thai at all. He came from India, and to India from the same Aryans. All elements of this massage originate from pictures carved on stone and stored in the temple of Bangkok. This is the same temple where the reclining Buddha is located. This massage itself is essentially lymphatic drainage, and if you do it and you don’t feel pain, then you should know that this is bullshit, not massage. It must hurt! This is not kneading the muscles, but washing out dirty lymph from the body. Clamping the joints in certain positions, the masseuse creates lymph pressure (like a dam), and releasing it, this lymph washes away the turbidity that has stagnated in the lymphatic system. You need to do at least 8 such sessions, otherwise there will be little sense. But the effect of the massage will not be at all immediately, you will feel it sooner even at home, in the form of good health, cheerfulness in the morning, and overall vitality will increase.
Beautiful, is not it?!!! 
- And this is what this puddle looks like next to me! It is the reflection in this puddle that is the most famous photo of Angkor! 
About a strong Thai family. Their families are really strong, but their fortress is peculiar. For example, you are Thai, and you live with your wife, well, let's say for a year, you have cooled off towards her a little, so it will be quite normal when your wife comes to you and says, - "I see, hubby, that your feelings for me are not so bright, I think it's time for you to go to my girlfriend, she is a good, kind and beautiful woman, you'll get along, "and the husband is quite legally friends with his wife's friend for some time, everyone is happy, relations are getting better.
I’ll tell you more about trances, which, as many people think, there are so many in Thailand that it’s easier to meet a transvestite than a pretty girl. All this is a complete heresy, there really are a lot of trances, this is again because of Buddhism, people are simply more tolerant of them and on the day of the Airborne Forces no one would beat anyone there. Many of them came from India and other countries. These people are not poor at all, because an operation that turns a boy into a girl costs at least $100,000. In most cities in Thailand, there are either no trances, or they are not visible at all, this is only the property of Pattaya, Phuket .. other resorts and a little Bangkok. As strange as it may seem, the percentage of gay people among Thais is no more than among Russians, this is a fact. All other manifestations are the property of peace-loving Buddhism.
What is and where did the Thai erotic show (the so-called Go-go) come from. Well, everything is simple here, genetically Thai women have problems with the guests of the thighs during childbirth, they are, let's say, narrow and the child does not come out well. So, in some remote village, they came up with a massage that strengthens the walls of the female century. now this wonderful massage has turned into no less beautiful javelins with these trained darts, in general, that only they don’t do it, but all the same village women of Tai do it, so you are unlikely to meet beauties in Go-Go.
Oh HBB Thai! Their traffic police can stop the violator no more than 1 time per day and the fine is real there is a penny, let's say baht 100. 80 percent of Thais have no rights at all, no. That is, you ride a bike without a helmet, call in the traffic police, pay 100 baht for it and leave from there at a speed of 200 km / h, violating all speed limits - you no longer have the right to stop! - THIS is a fact without ideas.
The most important thing...tourism in Thailand is almost the last line in the country's income. And Tai is not a poor state. Tai-3rd in the production of high-end cars in Asia, after Japan and Korea (And they are upscale because it is a Toyota brand and not only, it is locally developed, they also sell a lot of engines for well-known automakers in other countries), 1st for the production of hard drives, and produces a lot of all kinds of electronics, it produces so many products that there is enough for the whole of Asia. But the wires on the street - this is only at the behest of the people. They had a referendum, in which the king asked, Either you have beauty and without wires, or wires and taxes of others will not be added, they chose the 2nd, so the wires !!
If you have seen a Buddha image. Let's say this-
We can't believe that so many months have already passed since we came to live in Thailand, in such a beloved country. On the one hand, only 6 months, people live in Thailand for years. On the other hand, for our couple, this is a decent time. Before that, the maximum time we lived in one country was 2.5 months in Sri Lanka. Even before leaving for Asia, I kept a diary of planned flights from country to country, Thailand was in 6th or 7th place in general list. Fate and circumstances have distributed this list in their own way. We did not regret at all that we live in the kingdom right here and now.
We haven't seen much in six months. Unlike most travelers, we do not have a pursuit for the number of places and attractions visited. We lead a measured life in Thailand and do not jump from city to city. We live based on our financial capabilities, as well as each other's preferences. We are lucky that they converge in most cases.
How did we end up in Thailand?
Fate brought us to Thailand from. There we met the new year 2014 on the island. After Malaysia we decided to go to new country where you can live for several months. The closest such country was Tai.
Why Bangkok?
We understood that it would be impossible to find decent accommodation in tourist areas in January at the height of the season. Also, Glory and the Sea immediately ceased to interest us. Therefore, all resort places such as Koh Samui, Krabi and Phuket were immediately excluded. Pattaya was not even considered then. They unanimously chose Bangkok and went to it.
Glory on some nameless street in Bangkok
We lived for two unforgettable months in the capital of Thailand - in, which for us to this day remains real Thailand and just a convenient metropolis. We settled in the most expensive, by our standards then. We happily went and, which we only wanted. After Malaysia, we just ate. Several times they fell on numerous ones, dragged them to their apartment, rejoiced, riding inexpensive Bangkok taxis and slowly got to know non-tourist Tai.
Elephant House in Bangkok
And we have a siesta!
In the evenings, the streets of Bangkok turn into an endless restaurant
Will we return to Bangkok again? Definitely yes!
Firstly, because everything is the way we like it, secondly, because flying from Bangkok, wherever it is most profitable, and thirdly, because before flying to Russia, you need to stock up on clothes and shoes at low prices .
Where can I order a transfer from the airport?
We use the service - Kiwi Taxi
Ordered a taxi online, paid by card. We were greeted at the airport with a sign with our name on it. We were taken to the hotel in a comfortable car. You have already talked about your experience in this article.
Moving from Bangkok to Krabi
After Bangkok we rushed to . This resort is most remembered for the arrival of my mother, with two pools, rocks as from a picture and its nature.
Glory on Ao Nang beach admiring the sea
Mom tells me in my ear which restaurant she wants to go to in the evening
We celebrate mother's birthday in a restaurant by the sea
The flow of tourists here is large, the prices are appropriate, and people with the naked eye are different from the capital. But what islands, how many living creatures and impressions. And as many as three changes of residence in Krabi itself. This was not the case anywhere. A month and a half of life at the resort disappeared, as if we lived there for two weeks. Basically, the pastime consisted of hiking on and, and we also visited some excursions. Krabi did not catch my heart or Slavino. The main thing is that mom was delighted, which means that the task is completed and you can move on.
Amazing cliffs in Krabi
Will we return to Krabi again? Most likely no.
It makes no sense. Everything you wanted to see, and for the fabulous nature and landscapes you can go somewhere else. Krabi is not the place where you want to return, it is not addictive. Despite such subjective observations, we wish everyone to fly there at least once. Neither on Koh Samui, nor on Phuket, nowhere, as in Krabi, there is no such nature. For the sake of relaxation and for the sake of loved ones - this resort does not go unnoticed by tourists and backpackers. But it makes no sense to stay there for more than two or three weeks.
Leaving Ao Nang without regrets
We moved from Krabi to Pattaya
And now, we are already in. In a city that neither of us ever wanted to go to. Live there? I never dreamed of even relaxing there. With such extraordinary thoughts, we arrived in Pattaya. Thank you so much for completely changing the way we think about ourselves. Despite the endless flow of tourists at any time of the year, the dirty sea, trance thieves and inviting prostitutes, it's good here.
Panorama of Pattaya from the observation deck
South Pattaya
View of Jomtien area
Russian signs in Pattaya
Pattaya beach
Pattaya has many attractions, entertainment for every taste and places where it is interesting to visit. There are kind locals, prices are not for the wasteful hotel tourists and here it even looks like Bangkok. He's so close it's within reach. Now, no matter what anyone writes negative about the most famous resort Thailand, I will refute it.
To visit the country and see it as a tourist is one thing, but to live there and see the inside out is quite another. I thought it would be interesting to talk about the real life of Thais not in tourist places. Usually you notice such things when you have been watching the local people for several months. It takes time to comprehend what he saw and understand - why and why. And I will tell you everything at once, so that it would be easier for beginners to reveal the mentality of the Thais. And at the same time I will ask you to add your observations. Come on, how do you see life in the Kingdom of Siam?!
Disposable life Thailand is a real kingdom of disposable garbage. Entire trucks loaded with disposable food packaging deliver plastic to restaurants and cafes. Disposable cups, bags and cutlery fill the trash heaps. Because they cost pennies. And you don't have to wash.
Do you want normal dishes? Please, here are reusable plates and glasses. Also made of plastic... Just strong The philosophy of disposability is manifested not only in the crafts of the chemical industry. Do you want an iron fork? Easy. Here is a set of 20 aluminum forks. For just a dollar! True, they bend from the slightest careless movement. Well, okay. Threw it out and got a new one.
Often more expensive does not mean better, but more metal in the composition. We had normal inexpensive cutlery only from Nepal. They took it with them. And in Tae I had to lay out money. A stiff teaspoon was already $2 each. Most Thais will not buy these, but only twist them at the temple. Expensive.
By the way, the Thais ruin the equipment at once too. The fact that a motorcycle needs to change the oil is not known to many. Usually the bike is raped to the last and no one cares why it creaks and makes noise from all the cracks. Will it break? They'll fix it. Can't? Well, new then.
Garbage From the previous mental aspect of the Thais, the problem of garbage follows sadly. In Tae it is really cleaner than in. But not because the Thais are cleaner than the Indians (although, of course, they litter less). It's just that there are utilities here. Thais, for example, love to have a picnic in nature. Every weekend, somewhere along the embankment, whole crowds sit. And on Monday and Tuesday after them they clean up the garbage.
It is very difficult to find an urn or garbage can. Usually there is a 7/11 store. And several large dumps per village. And so only spontaneously organized dump sites. Or garbage bags placed on the side of the road. Municipal services drive at night and collect them through the streets. Everything suits everyone, and therefore the local authorities do not even itch to install additional ballot boxes. Hygiene And everyone who has lived in Thailand for a long time is amused by the mysterious myth about the cleanliness of the Thais. No, of course, there is not terrible unsanitary conditions. But it is in the order of things to delve into the garbage, wipe the dirty floor with an ancient rag and, after barely rinsing your hands with water, start kneading the dough. Somehow I drove past a simple cafe (macashnitsa). Taika was preparing something. Nearby, a two-year-old daughter peeed next to the table. The mother took her hand, rubbed her daughter between her legs and continued to cook. Is it better in an expensive restaurant? And then there are the Thais. Only if the restaurant owner and chef are Europeans. Then it's better there. But what to do? Nothing. This is Asia. It's like that almost everywhere here. Either get used to it, or ride to Europe. However, there are guest workers from distant countries in restaurants ...
True, in terms of toiletry, it is “cleaner” here than in Europe. Most Asians don't use toilet paper. They consider it unhygienic. Toilets usually have a separate hose with a wash basin. And toilet paper is used instead of napkins. Even napkin holders all have special ones for toilet paper. Cheap and practical Smile and wave Cultural differences are sometimes difficult to understand and quite unusual for Russians when everyone smiles and bows. But, especially, it is noticeable when, after several months of such a life, you return to your native expanses. The cashier sits gloomy, does not give change and is generally unhappy that we came to the store. There is no such thing in Thailand. In most cases. Smile, they will provide assistance to any stupid request, there will always be change (and if not, they will run and look for themselves), all purchases will be put in a bag and handed over with a smile. Let it be banal politeness, but it's still nice.
Life on loan Thailand is a country of a victorious consumer society. In addition to the love of disposable garbage and shopping (Chinese T-shirts and slippers for $ 2 strongly stimulate this love), Thais do not like life without loans. Cars, telephones, apartments and even groceries are easily borrowed for money. In any large shopping center there will always be several bank offices where you can get a loan or credit card. Tired of the car? Sold and bought a new one. And what, after all, you still give money later.
Phone Mania Mobile phones are loved in Thailand. And tents with accessories are the most numerous. Often it will not work to update the phone (after all, the income of the Thais is not very high), but you can easily buy a new case, whistle or perdelchik for a cell phone. From the abundance of all this junk ripples in the eyes. Probably even in shopping malls for the sale of equipment, at least a quarter of the space is occupied by shops with accessories. Homemade food A lot of Thais don't eat at home. They can drink tea with buns, but. Why? Because food is cheap. In local eateries for 30-40 baht you can always have a hearty meal. And on the way, eat some fried shrimp in batter for 10-15 baht. Why buy a bunch of pots, utensils and appliances? And how much time to spend on cooking!
In addition, electricity in Thailand is quite expensive (especially for a local salary), so electric stoves make food worth its weight in gold. And in multi-storey buildings, if gas is not supplied there, it is generally impossible to cook on gas from a cylinder. Many even have no options other than street catering. But no one complains - the choice of food is colossal, and the prices are very moderate. Products are fresh. They are preparing for you. It is not uncommon to see a parked Mercedes next to simple tables on the road.
Pedestrians Thailand is probably one of the least suitable countries for pedestrians. Undoubtedly, in big cities you will always find a sidewalk or a pedestrian crossing, but if you move a little further away, you will begin to regret the absence of motorcycles under you. In sleeping areas, instead of sidewalks, there are drain channels, and immediately behind them are fences of residential buildings. You walk, jump over and press against the wall. However, in resort towns not easier. Thais even ride a bike to the store 100 meters from the house. When I was jogging, Thais constantly stopped and offered me a lift. They were very surprised at my refusal. How is it, to run somewhere just like that, when you can get there by car!
This is greatly facilitated by affordable motor vehicles. A used bike can be bought for 400-500 dollars. Ride it for a few years, until it's completely ruined, and then buy the same one again. Or buy a new one on credit. $100 a month and ride the latest Japanese industrials. And you already know about the Thai love for loans. Husbands Everyone knows that there are a lot of transvestites in Thailand. Few people realize how things really are with this. And things are very ordinary. They live here. Not to say that Thai culture encourages this, but no one blames people for their choice. A son in a skirt can go to a restaurant with his mother. A man with hair and makeup can ride a moped. Ordinary people. None of the long-lived here especially distinguishes ladyboys from the general mass. You can also chat with them, say thank you or ask for directions. In this regard, Tai teaches tolerance. And rather, our compatriots look stupid, pointing fingers, laughing and cackling like horses. English Well, they don't like him. And they don't like other languages either. Thais are generally not particularly enthusiastic about learning something new. Especially not Thai. They are strongly tied to their domestic market and culture, and international affairs are of little concern to them. You can see a lot of Asians traveling around the world, but Thais will always be outsiders. Meeting a Thai abroad is like seeing Halley's comet. Usually they just fly somewhere on business. But, by the way, our fellow citizens know the international language of communication almost worse than the local ones. Therefore, compatriots, mainly in Thailand, communicate on their fingers with the help of calculators. And nothing, rest, sunbathe and shop
What is happiness and where does it hide? To answer this question, come to. You get hit all the time smiling Thais. It seems that they all feel quite satisfied with life and completely happy. Despite the fact that the huge difference in the property status of the inhabitants of the country immediately catches the eye. Thais in Thailand live either fabulously rich or completely poor - there is practically no middle class.
But with all this, one gets the feeling that the poorest Thais in the country feel calmer and happier than the wealthy. They practically do not have any material wealth, but after all, they have learned to be content with a minimum, and this is enough for them to be completely happy.
Even in the tourist places of Thailand, the hostile attitude of some, or else, does not stop them from smiling!
Also in Thailand there are corners where foreign tourists are not taken. These are the poorest regions, there is nothing to show a spoiled tourist. But it is in these places Thai life truly happy. Those who have comprehended true values this life. Freedom and family are important to them. Well, they also truly and sincerely love their King. And such conventions and benefits of civilization as the Internet, apartments, cars are unknown to them. And they often do not seek to take possession of all this.
Some of the Europeans can envy in their hearts happiness of the Thais. Of course, living in such a fabulous climate, eating delicious fruits is all wonderful. The local residents have no idea what cold and snow are, they do not need warm clothes. How not to envy them? But that's the secret that the Thais themselves do not seem to envy anyone, and are not going to do this.
Their distinguishing feature is a deep love for their country, respect for their own traditions, their religion. Some of them are enlightened Thai monks- they live in harmony with nature and with themselves, devote a lot of time to meditation, improving their spirit. And for those who have comprehended true harmony, there is no reason to frown.
A tourist inexperienced with local color can be struck by a large number of hammocks strung right on the palm trees. It turns out they live here. Imagine, a person does not have his own housing, but there is a bike, thanks to which he can earn. And if on some day they don’t have money, the smiling Thais won’t even think to be especially upset about this - after all, they will definitely appear tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, why upset yourself today!
A wonderful art is to be able to see what you have, to be grateful for everything. This is probably the main answer to the question, why do thai people smile a lot. They just love life! Therefore, quite often you can see a Thai carefree resting in his hammock. To enjoy life - what more do you need! That's why the Thais feel happier than us.
Also, there are a lot of them. This is due for a number of reasons, such as: unwillingness to serve in (now this trick does not work) and the fact that it is easiest for them to make money on.
Thailand is a hospitable Asian country, visiting which once, you return there again and again. Warm climate of the tropics, polite locals, beautiful beaches, low prices- all this disposes to itself not the spoiled tourist. Many people think about moving to the country of the scorching sun and friendly smiles. But is it so easy for a Russian to get comfortable and settle in Thailand? What positive and negative aspects are hidden behind such a seemingly prosperous Thai life for an ordinary Russian?
Life in Thailand for Russians
Moving to Thailand
Thai legislation is structured in such a way that it is almost impossible for a foreigner to obtain citizenship. The only option that is more suitable for a woman is to marry local resident. Then she will receive a residence permit and, in the future, citizenship. But such unions are seriously checked, as cases of fictitious marriages have become more frequent.
Citizenship gives some privileges, including the possibility of owning land, the right to vote in elections, and others. Surely, the Russians are not coming here for this. Therefore, there are long-term visas, which are not difficult to obtain.
Getting a Thai visa is much faster, easier and cheaper than a Schengen one. This can be done in a couple of days through the consulate. Required documents it is better to clarify before serving: conditions often change.
Useful advice when applying for a visa! It is advisable to present as many additional documents as possible in order to increase the chance of obtaining a visa and show yourself in the best light of a decent tourist.
The following documents will do:
- certificate from work;
- hotel reservation;
- reservation or a copy of the return ticket.
Visa types
Visas are of different types:
1. Tourist
- Single is given for 90 days, but after 60 days you will have to check in at the immigration office, pay a fee, after which you can stay in the country for another 30 days.
- Double visa. The algorithm of actions is the same as in the case of a single entry, only after 90 days it is necessary to cross the Thai border to a neighboring state and return again. Next, also spend 60 days in the country and 30 through the immigration office.
2. Stamp in the passport
The easiest way to get to Thailand than to visit the consulate and wait for a visa, because it may not be approved.
After the tourist fills out the migration card, a stamp is placed in the passport, which is called the “ran-visa”. It is allowed to stay in the kingdom for 30 days, after which it is necessary to leave it. Usually they cross the border of the country through neighboring states and return back. For such purposes, even organize special bus trips. There is no need to wait, you can return immediately. This method will extend the trip for another 30 days.
Attention! Sometimes such stories happen: at customs, before putting a stamp, they are asked to show a return ticket reservation or the amount of $ 500 to confirm the funds for living. You can re-visit Thailand with a stamp after 6 months.
3. Retirement
They are issued for one year upon reaching the age of 50, regardless of whether the person has retired or not.
Attention! The only condition for issuing a visa is the availability of 800,000 baht on the tourist's account.
The visa can be renewed every year an unlimited number of times.
4. Baby
It is the easiest to issue: you only need photographs, a birth certificate of the child and a parent's passport.
- If a child flies with parents without a visa, using a stamp in the passport, then only a passport is needed.
- In the absence of one parent, his notarized permission to export the child is required.
5.Non-immigration
A visa for those who are going to open a business and then receive a work visa or go to study.
6. Training
The most expensive visa, its validity is one year.
Attention! A prerequisite for obtaining is training (this can be universities, courses, seminars, conferences). Attendance at educational institutions is under strict control, so it is unlikely that you will be able to travel around the country with such a visa.
Overdue visas are subject to a fine of $15 per day. In case of repeated delays, a tourist may be restricted from entering the country for a while.
According to the laws, tourist visas are issued once a year and do not grant the right to permanent residence, with the exception of student visas, but they must be renewed in a timely manner. You can study all the time, but most students, having learned English or Thai, are officially employed and receive a work visa after that, it gives the right to long-term residence.
Video - Thailand Visa Types for Long Stay
Life in Thailand
It is very difficult to obtain Thai citizenship. Therefore, almost all foreigners live for a long time or winter on visas. Most foreigners prefer to live for six months and return to their country for the summer.
Where do Russians live in Thailand?
There are a lot of Russians in Thailand, but they do not live in "blocks" as is customary in the West. The Russians are scattered around the country randomly. For wintering or permanent residence choose popular resorts Pattaya, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Phuket, Phi Phi.
Housing is rented or apartments are bought in high-rise buildings. In Pattaya, there are even agencies with Russian-speaking employees. But you should be careful: for Russians, they can deliberately inflate prices, since traditionally Thais believe that our compatriots have a lot of money.
The attitude of Thais to Russians
The state protects its inhabitants, so the Thai is always right, except for serious crimes. That is why the local population is not afraid of anything and rips off tourists like sticky. At the same time, everyone is very welcoming, smiling and friendly. In the markets, you definitely need to bargain, otherwise there is a chance to buy a product several times more expensive than its real value. In general, the attitude towards Russians is very good and friendly.
What Russians do in Thailand
It is legally prohibited to be officially employed, for example, by Russian guides, realtors. But illegal employment is thriving, although it threatens with huge fines and even jail time.
Teacher in an educational institution
Officially, employment is allowed in Russian gardens and schools. It entitles you to a long-term work visa. Finding a job like this is hard. Difficulties are associated with the conditions for the formation of the state: for each foreigner, at least 4 Thais must be employed.
The easiest way to get a job as an English teacher at a local school. To do this, you need to speak English at an intermediate level. Usually, to begin with, a teacher is given a trial period of up to three months, they will pay a salary, but all this time he, like an ordinary tourist, lives on a tourist visa.
Business
It is not difficult to create your own business in Thailand, however, according to the law, 51% of the shares must be issued to a Thai. This is already more difficult: to find an honest partner.
Businesses have special requirements:
- Conditional capital of at least 2 million baht.
- Business must bring profit, otherwise the business visa will not be extended.
Despite the difficult conditions, a large number of Russians open their own business, which flourishes thanks to other tourists.
Photographer
Contrary to popular belief, working as a photographer in Thailand is not easy, especially for a beginner. First, there is a lot of competition. Second, you need a work permit. After obtaining permission, you can contact a special agency that will become an intermediary between the client and the photographer, receiving a percentage of earnings.
freelancer
Many tourists believe that the easiest way to live in Thailand and work remotely is sitting with a laptop under palm trees on the ocean. In fact, not everything is so simple.
As a freelancer, there are probably more cons than pros.
The most important drawback: the speed of the Internet on the islands and the periphery is quite low. The situation worsens when the rainy season arrives. More or less good internet speed in big cities (Bangkok, for example). To work, even if the Internet allows, because of the heat and stuffiness, it is possible only in the early morning and late evening on the balcony or under the air conditioner.
Photos of a freelancer with a laptop under a palm tree, which are so full of the worldwide web, do not reflect reality. The beach is very hot and noisy, it is unlikely to work.
Passive income
The most ideal way to make money while living in Thailand is to rent out real estate. Most tourists wintering in the resort rent out their houses and apartments in Russia and live on this money. This way of life is more suitable for pensioners.
Employee of a large international company
For an official device, a prerequisite is knowledge of the English language and extensive work experience. Documents translated into English and notarized are required:
- summary;
- diploma;
- certificates or diplomas confirming knowledge of the language;
- recommendation from the last place of work;
- a document confirming the absence of a criminal record.
Knowledge of English is a prerequisite for employment in Thailand
Education
In Thailand, they study from the very beginning kindergarten and to the university.
Kindergartens
For children of foreigners, there are kindergartens in which teachers are native English speakers.
With the kids they are engaged in modeling, drawing and a variety of developmental activities. Gardens are equipped with everything you need, interiors, furniture, toys are modern. The gardens are open until 4pm. The average cost of a kindergarten is 6 thousand baht per month.
Schools
International Schools
Most parents send their children to international schools, education is carried out according to the British system, which is very different from ours. Teachers are most often invited from the West. Training is carried out on English language, American Diploma. Education costs from 100 to 300 thousand baht per year, depending on the classes (primary, secondary, senior).
Thai private schools
Training is conducted in English. The average cost is about 35 thousand baht. A Thai-style diploma, with which you can enter universities in Thailand.
Russian schools
Russian schools in Thailand are no longer a rarity. They are on Koh Samui and Phuket. There are quite a lot of Russians there who want their children to study in Russian and get a Russian-style diploma. There are enough children in the classes, it will not be boring. The price of training varies from 12 to 15 thousand baht.
Higher education
Many institutes and universities teach in English. The cost depends on the specific institution and faculty. The average tuition fee per semester is 40,000 baht, but there are faculties for 15,000 baht.
The medicine
Every self-respecting tourist who cares about his health takes out insurance. Otherwise, the treatment will cost a pretty penny.
In Thailand, there are private expensive clinics that are more suitable for wealthy European tourists, and there are public hospitals that the local population or unpretentious tourists turn to. The level of medicine is the same everywhere. In private clinics, perhaps cleaner and less queues.
Invited European doctors also work here.
Thailand is famous for good plastic surgeons: the operation will be done cheaper and better than in Russia.
Medicines are sold immediately in the hospital after the prescription is issued by the doctor. The cost is several times lower than in a pharmacy. This is due to state subsidies.
What should be feared?
In Thailand, diseases are very common that our doctors cannot treat, not only because there are no special medicines in Russia, but simply because doctors do not have a full hand in the treatment of such infections.
- Malaria and dengue fever are widespread and are carried by mosquitoes. If it is necessary to undergo treatment at home, medicines are ordered from abroad or brought with them.
- Intestinal infections are also a common problem. To protect themselves, tourists drink only purchased bottled water from supermarkets and brush their teeth and wash their faces with it. They eat in trusted cafes and restaurants.
It is impossible to say unequivocally whether it is good or bad for a Russian to live in Thailand. To understand, you need to try. One thing is clear: Thailand is not for everyone. For many, everything goes well from the very first day, but after a few years someone sells real estate in Thailand and returns back to Russia to their native birch trees.
If moving to permanent residence is too radical for you, try spending the winter in Thailand and returning home in the summer. Perhaps this option will be the best. Thailand welcomes foreigners very warmly and friendly.
Video - How much does life cost in Thailand
