Lifestyle
IT TAKES ALL SORTS TO MAKE A WORLD
The first thing my experience in Thailand tells me about The Netherlands is that the weather is indeed awful there most of the time ! Many things are organized well in the Netherlands , and a lot of things run far more smoothly than here . But that doesn ’ t stop people complaining if even the smallest thing is not right .
While there are many generalizations to be made about Thai people , I find that the differences between each individual are much more significant than the similarities . In Thailand , too , there are all types of people : professional , grumpy , motherly , friendly , giggly , devious , confident , uncaring , loving , funny , quiet , theatrical , etc .! But if you ’ re looking for the perfect place to live by moving to Thailand , you are not going to find it . Actually , you won ’ t find it anywhere !
— Linda Belonje , The Netherlands
BE MORE THAN A FARANG
Thai culture is very inclusive . It is easy to be accepted , but it can be as equally difficult to become a part of Thailand . For many people , you will always be a guest or a foreigner .
It is important to have a strong social and work life here . Without it , feeling like a “ local ” can become even more difficult . Over the years , my wife and I have made many wonderful Thai friends , and working here can be very rewarding , as long as you understand the culture and behaviors of the country .
— Peter Romhild , Denmark
KEEP SOME TRADITIONS ALIVE
I have found that once you get to know Thai people , you will find that there is really not much difference in their mentalities compared to ours as foreigners . Thais are known for their kind and gentle personalities and are much better at hiding their unpleasant sides , something which we are not so good at in the West .
Over the many years I ’ ve been here , there have always been things to compare to and to miss from my home country . But when we visit Denmark now , there are things that we miss from Thailand ! It is important for us , though , to uphold some of the traditions from our home countries even when abroad , especially while our children are still young .
— Elizabeth Romhild , Denmark
EMBRACE THE ADVENTURE
I feel a strong affinity with Thailand , its culture , and its people , who are genuine and , in the main , content with their lot in life . As such , they go about their daily activities with a happy-go-lucky attitude .
I have been warmly welcomed into the family of my Thai wife and , along with our 7-year-old son , we have an active schedule that involves many family events . There ’ s no shortage of interesting things to do in Bangkok , and there are many day trips within close reach that we love to take advantage of .
Australia is a fantastic country , and I could live there again in a heartbeat — if weren ’ t for the sense of adventure it lacks when compared to Thailand . Every day here offers something unique and interesting along with its share of challenges of course !
— Geraint Gearon , Australia
KNOW THE SUBTLETIES OF COMMUNICATION
As soon as you land in Thailand , you are faced with cultural differences — whether it ’ s ordering food , dealing with employees , clients , suppliers , or simply grocery shopping . Most issues really boil down to an understanding of the Thai culture and adhering to it , learning to communicate and listen , and not assuming that what you hear is what is actually being said .
One should also assume a less confrontational manner in approaching issues , regardless of how frustrating or stressful the situation can be . In the time I have been here , I have seen many expats fail or struggle in business at delegating , implementing and executing work , as they have not been able to communicate what they want effectively .
Living here has given me a different perspective on my home country , where things tend to be more direct and fast . In Thailand , people tend to have a different speed of understanding what you communicate and a different view on how things should be , which has given me a more patient way of looking at things . I have found this can also be applied to back home . I ’ m perhaps more observant , too , as I now tend to look more at people ’ s behaviors and body language in a conversation for communication cues .
— Peter Waagensen , Denmark
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