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Adapting to the pace of life in Thailand

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Cheryl

Hello everyone,

When you move to Thailand, you may find that the pace of life is different from what you're used to. Shop opening times, working hours, sleep cycles and variations in sunlight can all have an effect on your life in Thailand as an expat and require time to adapt. This transition can be a source of surprises, adjustments and sometimes even frustration for those trying to find their balance in this new environment.

Here are a few questions to help you better understand how you manage your days in Thailand :

How have you managed to harmonise your own pace of life with the pace of life in Thailand?

Have you felt a change in your biological rhythm (diet, sleep, energy, etc.)? How can you minimise the effects on your well-being and adapt to changes in your circadian rhythm?

How have you adjusted your sleeping habits to optimise your energy and concentration in a different environment?

Shopping, meal and activity times can differ from one culture to another. How do you manage to reconcile your personal habits with those of life in Thailand? What are the benefits and challenges of these adjustments?

How do different working hours affect your productivity and quality of life? What have you done to maintain a work-life balance despite these changes?

Please feel free to share your experiences and advice on this topic.
Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
½ûÂþÌìÌà Team

thailand4me

Where do I start. Store opening up late is one number 2 is the behavior of businesses where the staff is eating and drinking all the time, they have food & drinks all over their desks. They’re always looking at the time to see if their break is soon. They don’t care if you buy anything or not. They have tons of people to wait on you but they’re busy on their cell phones and they don’t like being interrupted. You can’t complain because this is the way the system works or doesn’t work. Employees always come to work late & leave early. With all the breaks you would be lucky to see anyone work 8 hours a day. Thai people have more holidays than any other country I have ever been to. They also have more laws than any other country but no one obeys the laws anyway. You never see a policeman working except for traffic & parking cops they have a tiresome job to do. You’re on your own in this country you will never see any policemen to help you. But if you go to the police station you will see tons of them. To live here safely you have to be born with common sense to keep yourself alive. Free speech doesn’t exist & you can go to jail for saying the wrong words. The roads are incredibly dangerous & the Immigration system doesn’t work. But if you can lay low stay out of trouble, be nice, have manners it can be a great place to enjoy your retirement. Hospitals are very good and cheap. So I don’t usually write on this forum because somebody will chew me up on something or everything I wrote. Good Luck to me.

Leeds forever!

Where do I start. Store opening up late is one number 2 is the behavior of businesses where the staff is eating and drinking all the time, they have food & drinks all over their desks. They’re always looking at the time to see if their break is soon. They don’t care if you buy anything or not. They have tons of people to wait on you but they’re busy on their cell phones and they don’t like being interrupted. You can’t complain because this is the way the system works or doesn’t work. Employees always come to work late & leave early. With all the breaks you would be lucky to see anyone work 8 hours a day. Thai people have more holidays than any other country I have ever been to. They also have more laws than any other country but no one obeys the laws anyway. You never see a policeman working except for traffic & parking cops they have a tiresome job to do. You’re on your own in this country you will never see any policemen to help you. But if you go to the police station you will see tons of them. To live here safely you have to be born with common sense to keep yourself alive. Free speech doesn’t exist & you can go to jail for saying the wrong words. The roads are incredibly dangerous & the Immigration system doesn’t work. But if you can lay low stay out of trouble, be nice, have manners it can be a great place to enjoy your retirement. Hospitals are very good and cheap. So I don’t usually write on this forum because somebody will chew me up on something or everything I wrote. Good Luck to me.
-@thailand4me

"Thai people have more holidays than any other country I have ever been to."

Thai people with proper legitimate jobs have holidays,not common people you see everyday .

thailand4me

@Leeds forever!   That is true. I was speaking of office employees.  Not vendors.

Leeds forever!

@Leeds forever!  That is true. I was speaking of office employees. Not vendors.
-@thailand4me

Maybe 90% of the people you see everyday have no holidays, not just vendors.

barrytaylor

@thailand4me

Excellent comment

The best I have ever seen re Thailand

smartoil1419

When you move to Thailand, you may find that the pace of life is different from what you're used to.


Not just the tiime, @Cheryl, you should also mention the lying about time and not showing up at all, let alone at the time promised

And the excuses about why they didn't show up.

Endless excuses.

Adapting isn't easy here.

barrytaylor

@smartoil1419


It took me four years to accept the Thai way of life and I just live with it sometimes to my great frustration

GuestPoster0923

Dear Cheryl, Life is a journey, and every challenge we face is an opportunity to learn and grow. When we embrace the challenges that come our way, we open ourselves up to a wider range of experiences and possibilities.

GuestPoster0923

@thailand4me

Dear Thailand 4 me. I understand you very well because I have been through this before. I have run a company, a bar, I have run a restaurant, even a resort, and so on in different cities. I have lived on the road for almost 15 years. One day I asked myself, what really makes me happy and what do I really want from my life?

Life is a journey of discovery. As we travel through life, we learn more about ourselves and what we really want. It's okay to change your mind along the way. What you want and need in life may change over time. The important thing is to be true to yourself and to pursue what is truly meaningful to you.

That's one of the reasons I found peace after 16 years of living in Thailand.

scbrock

My biggest frustration with Thai people and there are many things I

like but the negative is the lack of sense of urgency when trying to

get things done. At one point I was looking to purchase property

thru a business so I had consulted a lawyer. Well nothing would get

done.

We would have an initial consult and they would say this is what I

need to do and what they need to do and I would try to get updates

on the progress and nothing would ever get done. I would follow up

with emails phone calls walk in to their office. And days turn into

weeks and weeks turn into months and nothing would get done.

I went thru this with several law firms. I can understand if they

don't want foreigners to own land and yes without getting into

the technicalities and not really owning the land but if they

don't want to pursue it I would be happier if they just told me

they don't do this kind of work or some excuse instead of all

this wasted time.

I don't understand this because certainly farang have successfully

went thru this process.

GuestPoster0923

@barrytaylor I've been here for 16 years, and though I still haven't accepted everything, I love it here. I know this country better than any other, even in places where Thai people are scared to go.

Thailand is my land of adventure. I've lived in every city and studied villages all over the country again and again. Even adventures using motocross in the mountains, charity work with children, and more. I was not afraid to put my life on the line to explore and learn more about this country.

Thailand, my teacher. I've learned so much here, more than I should know, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Thailand has taught me about myself, about the world, and about the human heart.

I deep connection to the country and its people. I adventure and I put myself in danger to learn more about Thailand.

Overall, I  have a very interesting story to tell about my experiences in Thailand. I hope to consider writing more about it someday.

Leeds forever!


    @barrytaylor I've been here for 16 years, and though I still haven't accepted everything, I love it here. I know this country better than any other, even in places where Thai people are scared to go.
Thailand is my land of adventure. I've lived in every city and studied villages all over the country again and again. Even adventures using motocross in the mountains, charity work with children, and more. I was not afraid to put my life on the line to explore and learn more about this country.
Thailand, my teacher. I've learned so much here, more than I should know, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Thailand has taught me about myself, about the world, and about the human heart.
I deep connection to the country and its people. I adventure and I put myself in danger to learn more about Thailand.
Overall, I  have a very interesting story to tell about my experiences in Thailand. I hope to consider writing more about it someday.
   

    -@Connection60

"I've lived in every city and studied villages all over the country again and again."

Really? What's wrong with you? You have lived in every city in 77 provinces? You should stop with your nonsense posts. Btw,do you think staying 16 years in Thailand is a long time? Before I officially migrated to Thailand years ago, I was around since  1989. I think I know a bit more than you do about this place.

barrytaylor

@Connection60

Please do

I agree what you write about Thailand

I have had a very action filled life up tot the age of 70 when i moved to Thailand in Jan 14

I have not travelled much in Thailand but have been up from the North to Phuket

Now I live in peace in a lovely country

From fighting a bush war in Namibia to investigating the attempted kidnapping of a US Ambassadors four year old daughter

I have been in 30 countries in my life and Thailand is warts and all just wonderful

GuestPoster0923

@Leeds forever! Dear Sir. It is not about living or knowing about Thailand, Is about experiencing how to live and survive in any situation. please tell me sir what do you do when you are in a village in the middle of nowhere without any weapons and some people planning to kill you that night and your money has no power there and even no way to run or leave the village the worst not have any wifi connection on your phone and you can't call your powerful friends if you have any?

Only two choices to die and the second is .....?

barrytaylor

@Connection60

As said I have survived in Bush war situations have you

I live on a farm in the bundus. I am the only Farang  and near me in a  village of 4500 people

I have survived in the bush with no water and food for seven days.

There is such a thing as common sense included with survival

Why did you create the situation like described by you as all situations have two sides to it when created.

GuestPoster0923

@Leeds forever! It's not just about having knowledge of Thailand; it's about embracing the experience of adapting and thriving in any situation. Imagine finding yourself deep in the jungle, isolated and unable to return due to the menacing presence of poisonous creatures lurking in the night for several days. You're also gripped with fear about the prospect of Marma people, with no apparent reason, posing a threat to your safety. In such a challenging scenario, what would you do? Would you turn to your PC as a tool for self-improvement over the years, despite the stark contrast between your digital journey and the way others choose to live their lives offline? It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, where adversity becomes an opportunity for growth, and sharing one's experiences online serves as a beacon of inspiration for those who may never step out of their comfort zones.

GuestPoster0923

@barrytaylor Congratulations sir I believe you can live and survive anywhere in any situation. 

barrytaylor

@Connection60

Firstly I would try not to create such a situation and when i was in teh bush war there were no electronic devices at all except a radio

Secondly why would I want to go such areas. I have lived my whole live without electronic devices and am anything but a keyboard warrior

I have accepted my life here in Thailand as it is and do not dream up situations on my keyboard.

Did you live in Europe  the Americas of africa before arriving in Thailand.

Did you work in an office or outside in the countryside

Have you had criminals attacking you with an axe

Each one for himself how he lives here in Thailand

GuestPoster0923

@barrytaylor

Dear Barrytaylor, I am only human, and I want to live my life to the fullest. That means trying new things and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

I have always dreamed of doing something different with my life. Now is the time to make that dream a reality.

I am not perfect, but I am trying my best to live a good life. That means being kind to others, pursuing my passions, and making a difference in the world.

I am grateful for the life I have, but I also know that there is more out there for me. I am excited to see what the future holds.

I am a simple person who wants to live a peaceful life. I am not interested in politics or conflict. I just want to do good in the world.

I am a citizen of the world. I care about all people, regardless of their nationality. I want to use my skills and talents to make a difference in the lives of others.

I am grateful for the opportunities that life has given me. I have always been passionate about helping others, and I am now ready to take my work to the next level.

I am excited to start a new chapter in my life. I have a new vision for my future, and I am ready to pursue it with all my heart.

smartoil1419

"I've lived in every city and studied villages all over the country again and again."
Really? What's wrong with you? You have lived in every city in 77 provinces? You should stop with your nonsense posts. Btw,do you think staying 16 years in Thailand is a long time? Before I officially migrated to Thailand years ago, I was around since  1989. I think I know a bit more than you do about this place.
   
    -@Leeds forever!


Well said, @Leeds forever.

And it needed to be said, too.

barrytaylor

@Connection60 I just hope and wish for you that all your dreams come true

You are a wonderful person to at this age still want to have an adventurous life

This is the way to live not sit at home and mope about life and wonder when you are going to die

I envy you in a way for having the courage to be able to do this at your age

My late mother told me when she died at 88  Do what you can because remember when you die you lie still long enough

I have had my life of interest . Now i want to rest the rest of my life.For 52 years it was action and danger and fun. Went into places where you never know when the gangster are going to kill you yet speaking to them and then find out they are also human

The more danger the more I liked it. I came to Thailand when i was 70 ten years ago and here I just enjoy life assisting Thais where I can in my village.

Now teh greatest danger is driving on the roads here and trying to stay out of trouble with all teh suicidal drivers on the road plus the dogs  children and other  obstacles

if you come to Prachin Buri area come and visit I have a very nice guest room

GuestPoster0923

@smartoil1419

I think it's beautiful that human beings can believe whatever they want to believe. It's a part of what makes us unique and special. We can have our own thoughts, feelings, and opinions, and we don't have to agree with everyone else.

I know that it can be difficult to find people who are always honest and straightforward. But there are people out there who are true to themselves and who speak their minds with kindness. They may not always be easy to find, but they're worth searching for.

Be open-minded and respectful of other people's beliefs, even if you don't agree with them.

Be humble and willing to learn from others.

Be open to new experiences and ideas.

Be willing to question your own beliefs and to change your mind if you learn new information.

Use your beliefs to guide you towards a good and meaningful life.

Here are some examples of people who have followed their hearts and spoken truthfully:

Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa, even though he was imprisoned for many years.

Martin Luther King Jr. led the civil rights movement in the United States, even though he was assassinated for his beliefs.

Mother Teresa dedicated her life to helping the poor and sick, even though she faced many challenges.

Malala Yousafzai spoke out for the right of girls to get an education, even though she was shot by the Taliban.

These are just a few examples of people who have followed their hearts and spoken their minds with kindness. There are many other people who have done the same, and who continue to do so every day.

I believe that it is important to follow your heart and to speak your truth. It's not always easy, but it's the right thing to do. It's how we make the world a better place.

smartoil1419

I think it's beautiful that human beings can believe whatever they want to believe.  -@Connection60

Look at that!   A perfect example of "virtue signalling" ... everything from "follow their hearts" to Mother Teresa.

Actually, I'm here to discus expat living in Thailand.

GuestPoster0923

@barrytaylor

Dear sir, You are in a wonderful place I like it you are surrounded by the largest protected park area in Thailand. Even you have your own elephants, tigers, leopards, and gibbons. I like to camp there and walk into Jongle sometimes, wildlife watching is wonderful there and is not as dangerous as in northern Thailand being alone at night.

You have your own temple that is 2,000-year-old

You have your own hiking, swimming, and camping area, even your traditional Thai medicine center. Have you tried to get a Thai massage, or herbal treatment, or buy traditional Thai medicine products at the hospital?

I like the fresh seafood, fruit, and vegetables there.

You choose a beautiful and diverse province that has something to offer. Whether you are interested in nature, history, culture, or food, I am sure you have something to do and enjoy everyday life and enjoy life in peace there.

I was in Thap Lan a week ago and I will pass your city I Think in a few weeks.

GuestPoster0923

@smartoil1419

Thank you, Sir, and I wish you good luck!

barrytaylor

@Connection60

You made one mistake  I agree with you re  Mother Theresa and the others but Nelson Mandela was a criminal out and out and no forgiver. He was a communist bent on destroying SA and has now achieved this  with his legacy.

How do I know this.  I attended his court case everyday of the trial and saw what his legacy has done to the country. He was sly and manipulated people

smartoil1419


    @Connection60You made one mistake  I agree with you re  Mother Theresa and the others but Nelson Mandela was a criminal out and out and no forgiver. He was a communist bent on destroying SA and has now achieved this  with his legacy.How do I know this.  I attended his court case everyday of the trial and saw what his legacy has done to the country. He was sly and manipulated people        -@barrytaylor

I appreciate your comment.

We agree, just not clear in my post.

Mandela = Negro criminal & communist who probably did more than anyone else to ruin a once prosperous nation.


But many people simply can't resist VIRTUE SIGNALLING at every opportunity.


Now I'll remind both of us that the topic of this thread is "pace of life in THAILAND".

GuestPoster0923

@barrytaylor

It was just an example in the text I chose to write and has nothing to do with this website, sir.

sinjers73

Most of the discussions in this forum appear to be written by self-centered egotists (especially the long-term residents) who focus on personal virtues, unrelated to adjusting to the pace of life in Thailand, and are consequently uninformative and unhelpful!

smartoil1419

It was just an example in the text I chose to write and has nothing to do with this website, sir.        -@Connection60


"Nothing to do with this website"  !  !  !

So OFF-TOPIC not just for this thread, but for the entire web site.


Makes me want to know, how to ignore  someone here, so that I never even see any of their posts?

Is that even possible on this forum??

smartoil1419


    Most of the discussions in this forum appear to be written by self-centered egotists (especially the long-term residents) who focus on personal virtues, unrelated to adjusting to the pace of life in Thailand, and are consequently uninformative and unhelpful!
   

    -@sinjers73


Hear!   Hear!


If I could give that post from @sinjers73, five "likes" I would.

thailand4me

@Connection60   am still adjusting I guess. we now have a second condo in Cha Am where there are many expats livinging.    the condo is old but well maintained.    everyone is supper nice.  if you ask for a repair its done within the hour, not all day like in Bangkok. we like to be able to spend time there & get away from the crazyness of Bangkok. The drive down there is a killer, 3 hours of intense driving skills to avoid being killed. The alternative, is the 100 plus year old train or flying back. But now we have discovered another way using a Grab driver for 2000-3,000 baht ride back to Bangkok & leaving our car in Cha Am. At our ages we continue to adjust to changes and try to be flexable.  makes life some much better.    Patrick

GuestPoster0923

Dear Patrick Cha-am is a beautiful seaside town in Thailand, located about two hours south of Bangkok. It is a popular tourist destination for weekend getaways and is also a great place to live. The beach is long and sandy, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities to keep you entertained.

If you're looking for a more lively nightlife, you can always take a taxi to Hua Hin, which is just a short drive away. However, please be respectful of the locals and keep the noise down when you return to Cha-am.

Taxi fares in Cha-am are very reasonable, at just 10 baht per kilometer. However, you can often find cheaper fares if you negotiate with the driver.

If you have any questions about Cha-am, please feel free to ask. I'm always happy to help!

GuestPoster0923

Dear Patrick, It's great to hear that you're adjusting to your new life in Cha-Am! It sounds like a lovely place to live, with a friendly community and a well-maintained condo. I'm glad that you're enjoying your time there and getting away from the craziness of Bangkok.

I can understand why the drive down to Cha-Am can be a bit of a killer. It's a long way, and the traffic can be intense. But it sounds like you've found a great solution by using a Grab driver. That's a very reasonable price for a three-hour ride, and it's much more convenient than taking the train or flying.

It's also great to hear that you're being flexible and adaptable. That's a very important skill to have in life, especially as we get older. Change can be difficult, but it's also an opportunity to grow and learn new things.

I wish you all the best in your new home! I'm sure you'll be very happy there.

thailand4me

@Connection60 wow. I totally agree with your writing.

smartoil1419


we now have a second condo in Cha Am ... But now we have discovered another way using a Grab driver for 2000-3,000 baht ride back to Bangkok & leaving our car in Cha Am. At our ages we continue to adjust to changes and try to be flexable.  makes life some much better.    Patrick         -@thailand4me

I've done the same, with excellent results.

Plus, Grab driver is door-to-door, wonderfully convenient.

Thanks, @thailand4me, for posting that useful tip.

I will ask where you stayed in Cha Am before you bought the second condo.

Can you recommend a quiet and comfortable hotel, suitable for us "seniors"?

thailand4me

@smartoil1419  Hello. we never stayed in hotels.  instead we used Airbnb.  Hotels have to much traffic for us.  after Covid life changed for everyone.  Patrick

thailand4me

@Connection60   Thank You for your well wishes.  i also wish you the Best in Life.  Take Care.    Patrick

GuestPoster0923

@thailand4me You're welcome sir! I'm so glad that my well wishes meant something to you. I also wish you the best in life. May you be happy, healthy, and successful in everything you do.

Thank you for taking the time to write to me. I appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness.

Please take care as well.

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