-Where were you born?
United Kingdom
-In which country and city are you living now?
Bangkok, Thailand
-Are you living alone or with your family?
With girlfriend
-How long have you been living in Thailand?
4 years
-What is your age?
29
-When did you come up with the idea of living in Thailand?
I came here for holiday when I was 20 I decided to finish university and try to get a job in Bangkok.
-Was it hard to get a visa or a work permit?
The first year of university, yes, as I dont want to teach. Finding alternative work is quite tough when so young.
-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?
I have never had insurance.
-How do you make your living in Thailand? Do you have any type of income generated?
I looked on various agencies with no luck, I did some graphic design for a week or so but they were requesting 16-hour shifts so I left. Then my brother introduced me to my boss and managed to get some part-time work which led to full time.
-Do you speak Thai and do you think it's important to speak the local language?
I speak some Thai (not as much as I should) and have started to learn how to read and write. I think it is important for westerners to learn in order to integrate into society.
-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
Yes I miss the UK, especially my hometown in Wales, although do visit once a year for a couple of weeks.
-Do you have other plans for the future?
I have started my own business promoting action / adventure sports in Thailand, hopefully one day this will be full time.
-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
I am currently renting an apartment for 8500 THB but I have recently invested in a condo which is being built - that was 2.6 million for a studio in Ladprao.
-What is the cost of living in Thailand?
Food and accommodation is cheap, beer is far too expensive these days and more expensive than in the UK in many bars.
-What do you think about the locals?
The Thai people are part of the reason I love Thailand so much, so friendly. Bangkok must have one of the lowest crime rates of any capital city in the world.
-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Thailand?
Negative - too much focus on money and wealth.
Positive - friendly people, incredible countryside, cost of living, climate, food
-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Thailand?
In a working environment sometimes western culture to get things done as quickly as possible can clash with the relaxed Thai culture. I prefer the Thai method personally!
-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Thailand?
My hobby is to promote adventure sports in Thailand through my website http://www.actionsportasia.com which features sports from go karting, wakeboarding, rock climbing, scuba diving and more. The website provides a resource for anyone interested in action sports in Asia.
