Mark is an American businessman who has made Thailand his home. He has mostly positive things to say about living with his family in Thailand, where he owns a growing golf travel company.	Mark Siegel

October 18 2006 

-Where were you born?
USA

-In which country and city are you living now?
Thailand

-Are you living alone or with your family?
Family

-How long have you been living in Thailand?
2 years

-What is your age?
47

-When did you come up with the idea of living in Thailand?
When I was first here 15 years ago on vacation I fell in love with the people and my wife.

-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?
No

-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?
No

-How do you make your living in Thailand? Do you have any type of income generated?
I purchased a golf travel business here, www.golfasian.com

-Do you speak Thai and do you think it's important to speak the local language?
I speak the language now and feel it is important to get the most pleasure out of living in a foreign country.

-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
I sometimes miss American BBQ’s.

-Do you have other plans for the future?
I plan to continue to grow www.golfasian.com for the future.

-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
I am renting, but have purchased a home as well.

-What is the cost of living in Thailand?
The cost of living here is around 40% of the USA.

-What do you think about the Thai people?
The locals are great, that is why I am here.

-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Thailand?
Positives are it's very rewarding, interesting, cost-effective. Negative is that some things are counter-intuitive.

-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Thailand?
Keep your cool and remember we are the guests here.

-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Thailand?
Golfasian and Thailand Golf Blog.