I feel just as close to my Thai family as my UK one. Been together with my gf for 4 years, she's been to stay with me in the UK for a couple of 6 month visits, and I've been back and forth to Thailand many times, luckily just got back here before Xmas and the TP problems.
Have stayed with her parents and brother many times and they are the kindest caring people I know. All hard working, don't touch alcohol, go out of their way to make me feel welcome, never ask for money. They also make a point of never inviting other family members to their house whilst I'm staying, as they've told me some brothers and uncles are not good people. I can just feel the good energy and love around this close family and I feel blessed to be part of it.
When I do help out with shopping or maybe some gasoline for her brother the genuine gratitude they show me is so touching. Such a refreshing change from all the selfish, cynicism that the UK seems to perpetuate.