What I think is vital to becoming a successful ex-pat in Asia

[ASEAN NOW News]

As a British businessman, I was used to jumping on a plane, so the thought of actually leaving the UK and moving abroad did not seem to phase me.

 

I decided to continue working and still do, as I am not the type who wants to or can afford to retire at the moment.

 

The number one reason for my move to Asia was the need to end cold winters in London.

 

Having spent six years in Dubai my bones also enjoyed the all-year-round high temperatures.

 

At the time, as I enjoyed playing golf, a good selection of golf courses was important plus easy access to a top international airport.

 

file photo

 

I had traveled to HCMC , HK, Singapore, Jakarta and KL before, but for me Bangkok always stood out as a fun city with plenty of Western facilities like supermarkets and vast shopping centres.

 

Almost like home but without the cold.

 

Also obtaining a visa at the time was easier in Thailand, than say Vietnam or Indonesia, although rules have changed a lot since 2010.

 

I had travelled to Thailand several times before, even holidaying in Bangkok and Pattaya back in the early seventies.

 

However, I did travel out there for a week’s reconnaissance and found the rental rates good and the climate ideal.

 

Now in my case, I was happy to travel east from Dubai as I enjoyed the different lifestyle than glitzy Dubai.

 

I remember it took me some time to accept the smells of Bangkok, the constant noise of the traffic, the broken pavements and even having to cope with rats on every corner.

 

I felt happier in the Centre of town in a high-rise condominium, however, others might have ventured further out to rent a house.

 

You did have to get used to playing the game, by using an agent to arrange your work permit and visas which were quite expensive. This seems to be the easier route in whatever country you move to.

 

Perhaps apart from the climate, building up a network of friends is also important.

 

I managed to find friends through the condominium (the swimming pool was a very social spot) and at golf tournaments and soon settled in.

 

It really does not matter where you go to live, the same applies.

 

Top of my to-do list is to check the climate all year round, check the rents, check you can get good intl TV connections and that there is a good supermarket nearby.

 

Healthcare is naturally also important and try to get a good health policy that covers everything including dentistry and your eyes.

 

join a golf group

 

Don’t sit at home, do make the effort, and go to expat meetings, join a few social clubs, even golf societies and start creating a group of friends.

 

Friendship I know is what makes for a happy ex-pat lifestyle.

 

Good luck.

 

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