| American expat Dean is no stranger to Asian living. Having lived in Thailand and Hong Kong in previous years he's back in Thailand, pursuing his passion for reading and writing in the capital city of Bangkok, also called the Venice of the East. Learn what expat living is like for Dean in a location that's inspired much of his writing. |
 Dean Barrett |
-Where were you born?
New London, Connecticut. I grew up in Groton, Connecticut.
-In which country and city are you living now?
Bangkok, Thailand
-Are you living alone or with your family?
-How long have you been living in Thailand?
This time 7 years. Not my first time living here.-What is your age?
65
-When did you come up with the idea of living in Thailand?
I was stationed here as a Chinese linguist with the Army Security Agency in 1966-68. I went back to the States to get my MA then lived in Hong Kong for 17 years where I had a publishing company. Among other magazines, I published Thai International Airline's Sawasdee magazine so I was in Thailand very often. Then I moved back to the States, New York City for 14 years. Then back to Thailand about 7 years ago.
-Was it hard to get a visa or a working permit?Not really. I am on a retirement visa. But it has to be renewed each year, and every three months I must leave the country or else sign in at the Immigration Dept. I also have to show US$25,000 in my bank account each year.
-Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance before you went there or when you first arrived?I had medical insurance in the States. I don't have it in Thailand. Very good hospitals here very cheap, the latest machines and the western-trained doctors speak English.
-How do you make your living in Thailand? Do you have any type of income generated?I am a writer and have written novels and some nonfiction on both China and Thailand. Also, I was with Dramatists Guild and BMI in New York as I love plays.
-Do you speak Thai and do you think it's important to speak the local language?Yes, I speak Thai although not as fluently as I would like. It is very important to learn local customs and frame of reference for a successful stay in a foreign country.
-Do you miss home and family sometimes?
My home is here now but I do miss plays and live theater very much. I generally spend my time writing and reading.-Do you have other plans for the future?
My future plans are to continue writing and reading.-What about housing, have you bought, or are you renting a home? How much do you pay for it?
I am renting a three-bedroom apartment which costs less than half of my one-bedroom apt. in New York City. So instead of paying US$1600 a month, I pay half that. And of course taxis are cheap, etc. And excellent medical service.-What is the cost of living in Thailand?
The cost of living depends on whether you wish to eat and live as a Thai or as a foreigner or somewhere in between. How much you spend is up to you.
-What do you think about the Thais?The Thais treat foreigners well and I have no personal complaints but sometimes they can be too nationalistic.
-What are the positive and negative aspects of living in Thailand?
The Thais say, "If it's not sanuk it's not worth doing." Meaning if it isn't joyful or leading to happiness why do it. It is indeed the Land of Smiles. As I said, great movies, old movies, and fine plays seldom come here. Mainly the blockbusters and comedies. Although there is now a good cultural center here.
-Do you have any tips for our readers about living in Thailand?
Be patient. As the Thais say, chai yen yen, or, keep a cool heart. Do not show anger, stay calm, learn the language and smile a lot. Of course you could read my books for background such as Skytrain to Murder and Kingdom of Make-Believe.
-Do you have any favorite Web sites or blogs about Thailand?
I have two websites on Asia, nightlife, fiction and humor. Some of your readers might enjoy them. They are www.deanbarrettmystery.com and www.deanbarrettthailand.com.
