Expat family life in Bangkok

I moved to Thailand in 2003 simply because I was bored with my life in the United States. I lived in Boston, studied in New York, and traveled the world.

Traveling was my favorite thing to do until I went to Thailand. It was as if I was looking for something in the world and I finally found it in Thailand. After that, I had little or no desire to travel anymore. Although I missed my family and friends in the United States, I got bored after a week of visiting them and longed for Thailand every time I vacationed in the United States.

First of all, I love Thai food. There is so much variation that you can spend months just eating Thai food and not get bored. Thai food has a wide range of flavors, from spicy, sweet, and sour. I learned to do a bit of that, but I usually cook Western food and my wife cooks Thai food. You can learn a LOT about Thai food here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_cuisine, however it really is an art that requires endless practice to achieve perfection. People are usually nice and friendly too. They love white skin, so if you’re pale white… that’s actually a good thing! Where I’m from, it seems like you haven’t been able to leave the house or office to get some sunlight in years.

The culture is uniquely Thai, although it is also a mix of surrounding cultures. The Chinese have some firm grip on Thailand in both culture and business. Schools in Thailand are not that great and teach conformity and memorization for the most part. I have also connected with many expat families from Bangkok over the years in Thailand.

The weather in Thailand can be described as hot and humid for the most part. There is a rainy season and a not so rainy season. For me, the humidity is the worst part. If you are in a big city, pollution along with humidity is lethal. Many taxis, buses, shopping centers, restaurants, etc. They are air conditioned, but walking outdoors for even 10 minutes can make you sweat. I have friends who literally carry a couple of sweat rags or even a towel everywhere they go. Don’t plan on walking too much in town if you want to be comfortable for a sit-down dinner (no shower) later.

There is so much in Bangkok, let alone in the country of Thailand. I hope you can experience it one day!

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