Mostly, whether living in Thailand or traveling extensively, the Kingdom is about people, and has a great deal to do with the traveler or expat. Living here is not for everyone. Thailand will undoubtedly frusrate you from time to time. And, assuming that you’re fairly normal, the kingdom will also intrigue and entrance.
Bangkok is a cosmopolitan city and your first impression of Thailand. Depending on your wanderings, Bangkok can be hedonistic, frenetic and overpowering. Some folks don’t like the smells of Bangkok. The traffic overwhelms others. Most everyone will run headlong into a language barrier. Fortunately, quite a number of Bangkokians speak English.
Bangkok, as all of Thailand, has layers that your experience will peel back over time. A new revelation can bring agony or ecstacy. Learning as much of the language as possible will make most things easier. And it’s a good idea to start with the Thai alphabet.
Early on, learn the basics of Thai manners.
- Never speak ill of Thai monarchy
- Don’t raise your voice
- Smile a lot .. or look inscrutable
- Never touch a Thai woman unless invited to do so
- Don’t touch a Thai on the head, especially a man
- Learn to wai properly
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases
- Don’t point directly at someone
- And many more
Thailand has negatives for most westerners. Bureacuracy can vary from tedious to overwhelming. You will be a guest here. That means that, generally speaking, you:
- Cannot work without a permit
- Will not be allowed to work in certain professions & trades
- Cannot own land in your own name
- Will usually be subject to “double ricing”
- Must maintain a visa status with periodic rules changes
