3 hours ago, connda said:

I like his attitude too, but Thailand IS NOT the place to come to.  It sounds to me as though he hasn't done his homework to understand the visa (financial) requirements and the lack of legal job opportunity market.

He feels it is the place to come to and I am sure he has carried out a lot of investigation into it before taking the decision. Only time will tell though. I just hope things work out for him and his family.

error

 

 

 

I hope they have figured all the costs , and they probably have a good nest egg from house sale, savings etc. My nephew went to Australia with a special license for driving those monster trucks , very happy there. His brother in Dubai making a fortune in construction company, my cousin is in S Africa and has a VIP job, his brother is oceanographer in Australia, I have lots of other family in Canada, even my friends from grammar school are abroad. I’m in France. And we all grew up in sleepy Wales. It’s just figuring out your what you want in life, and doing your best. Added to that if you have family you can count on it’s a bit like insurance. No one in my family have taken advantage of that so far.

Seriously concerned about tis guy - his perception of UK, the world etc. I think the article says more about him than reality.

"“We’re taking nothing but clothes. What else do we need?” 

THis comment immediately raises concerns - the one thing that Brits get wrong when they come to Thailand is CLOTHES - even ENglish "summer clothes are inappropriate for Thailand yet he thinks that's all they need

 

"Savings"? - Well I assume he realises he is unlikely to be working.

 

He makes no mention of visas or any means of support.

Does he realise he will be paying taxes?

 

What about healthcare?

 

What visa will he and his family use? DTV I suppose, but then they will repeatedly have to leave the country - He doesn't look old enough for a retirement visa. 

 

His kids education? - Perhaps he needs to think about his own education too?

 

I would like to hear a follow up to this tale in a year or two when reality has sunk in.

2 hours ago, Quentin Zen said:

Riots in Spain.............soon in the UK.......... this guy is heading for greener pastures.  

 

After a few months cooped up with his family in one room, he will start to explore the dark side of Bangkok.  Then Pattaya.   Then money problems.  Kids won't be happy.  Wife will be miserable.    They will tell Thais how to do things.  This is fail.  Kids will want to go back home.  Dad falls in love with a bar girl.    Scammed.  More money gone.  Oh, it's only $300.   Except it's every day......soon it's "only" $3000.  Then $30000.  Then the house money is gone.  lol

 

Ah, good times.  

..and a coup in Thailand?

 

18 hours ago, Magictoad said:

He has researched ALL those issues you refer to. Both him and his wife can get jobs as TEFL teachers. Starting of with a certificate then working up to a PhD and working at the same time.

You are very negative; have you been in Thailand too long?

I came here in 1990 with a one way ticket and £200 in my pocket and no work. Things worked out fine!

Great post and you have done very well. But Thailand in 1990 is a very far cry from Thailand in 2025. I don't think I need to say any more.

5 minutes ago, NoshowJones said:

Both him and his wife can get jobs as TEFL teachers.

what makes you say that?

20 hours ago, Magictoad said:

Mansfield is dread. I would not live there if you paid me. She and he can get TEFL jobs. Teaching adults English as a foreign language.  Though one or two I'll informed people on this forum criticise the profession that is always ignorant people who don't know what they are talking about. The beauty of teaching English as a Foreign Language is that you can progress up to PhD Level but start with a certificate from International House or the British Council. It is also a good way to meet people. I WISH THEM LUCK.

If Mansfield is so bad (I don’t know I haven’t been there) why doesn’t he relocate to Cornwall, or Devon, or somewhere else nice in the UK?

 

I’m all for following dreams by moving to another country, I’ve done it myself 3 times, to Jersey as a teenager, to Singapore in my 30’s and Thailand in my 50’s, but this guy has no plans in place and is dragging his kids along for an adventure that he should have done when he was a teenager. All for a bit of sun that he will soon get sick of.

19 hours ago, baansgr said:

One month wait for GP appointment, 5,000 stabbings a month in London..Thailand has free education 👍 

"5,000 stabbings a month in London". How many stabbings a month in Bangkok? What is the population of London compared to the population of Bangkok?

7 hours ago, bkk6060 said:

Britain is one of the worst places in the world now.  Very depressing. 

Good for him for trying a new life here.

Good luck to him and his family.

He will need it, putting his house on sale in August and leaving in November.

Post not in English removed @scude102

22 hours ago, quake said:

Not fair on the kids man. 

Your not loaded or have high paying jobs here.

So it's all going to go south at some point. 

 

 

 

This guy is betting on long term influencer revenue to support his family in Thailand?  Doomed to failure unless very lucky. Even if he winds up getting some initial traction this kind of side hustle job is fleeting and is akin to trying to be a rock star. Only a scant few of the millions that try make any real money.

 

Ask school kids these days what they want their career to be: 

 

United States:

• A 2023 report by Morning Consult found that 57% of Gen Z in the US would be an influencer if given the opportunity. This number has remained relatively consistent since a 2019 report.

15 minutes ago, kwilco said:

what makes you say that?

I did not say that, you are getting me mixed up with someone else.

31 minutes ago, geisha said:

I hope they have figured all the costs , and they probably have a good nest egg from house sale, savings etc. My nephew went to Australia with a special license for driving those monster trucks , very happy there. His brother in Dubai making a fortune in construction company, my cousin is in S Africa and has a VIP job, his brother is oceanographer in Australia, I have lots of other family in Canada, even my friends from grammar school are abroad. I’m in France. And we all grew up in sleepy Wales. It’s just figuring out your what you want in life, and doing your best. Added to that if you have family you can count on it’s a bit like insurance. No one in my family have taken advantage of that so far.

 

Your family and friends are doing well in western developed nations which is wonderful but this poor soul is trying to make a career in Thailand? I've known a few guys who work for western companies that have offices in Bangkok and they do fine. These guys are executive level white collar professionals who were sent to Bangkok to do business in Thailand, but this fellow was a truck driver? How in the hell is he gonna get a career in Thailand? Not driving lowries. 

22 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Picture courtesy of The Independent

 

In a bold move, Dale Smith, an HGV driver from Nottinghamshire, is relocating his family to Thailand with just a suitcase and dreams, citing the unbearable living conditions in “Broken Britain.”

 

Frustrated by soaring bills and dreary weather, Smith, his wife Kim, and their children Noah and Molly will leave Mansfield for Bangkok this November, carrying little more than essentials.

 

Despite earning more, Smith feels trapped by financial pressures. “The prices are sky-high, and the streets are in a state,” he shared on TikTok. “We want to escape this routine.”

 

Selling their home and car, the Smiths plan to land in Thailand with savings and a sense of adventure. “We’re taking nothing but clothes. What else do we need?” Smith remarked.

 

Dissatisfaction is not only financial; the children find their education disengaging. The parents intend to homeschool them, incorporating practical skills and language learning.

 

“We’re not closing the door on formal education,” Smith clarified, ensuring the kids could pursue qualifications later.

 

The family's journey begins in Bangkok, moving to Hua Hin to determine living costs. Though their plans are fluid, Smith is unfazed. “We’ll probably rent a furnished place. One less worry.”

 

 

Smith’s TikTok has garnered 1.5 million views, resonating with those seeking a similar escape. “It’s scary but amazing, especially for the children,” he said, confident of an improved quality of life.

 

Having researched visas, flights, and costs meticulously, the family's ultimate goal is freedom rather than a strict plan.

 

“We’re not fleeing; we’re pursuing a better life,” Smith declared. They aim to document their travels online, potentially turning it into income.

 

With enough savings for a few years, Smith reassures that the UK remains an option if needed. “We can return anytime to spend quality time with family.”

 

His message to others: “Don’t live in regret. If you dream of change, don’t be afraid. Embrace life now.”

 

And so, the Smiths embark on this venture, driven by hope and the promise of new experiences.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-14

 

 

Slow news day?

«We’re taking nothing but clothes. What else do we need?” Smith remarked.

 

Eh visas? 
 

Multiple insurances, travel and medical?

(No NHS for farangs in Thailand)

 

Money-money-money, eating out x 3 pr day for 4 persons at an western style restaurant is not cheap at all!

 

Etc etc etc…

22 hours ago, smedly said:

I don't think he has thought this through, for a start with young children like this he is likely well under 50 more like in his 30's so a long term visa in out, if he intends to work his job potential and earnings are severely limited

 if he intends to work..............But He Can't Work THAT Job here,Can He ??

1 hour ago, StandardIssue said:

 

Your family and friends are doing well in western developed nations which is wonderful but this poor soul is trying to make a career in Thailand? I've known a few guys who work for western companies that have offices in Bangkok and they do fine. These guys are executive level white collar professionals who were sent to Bangkok to do business in Thailand, but this fellow was a truck driver? How in the hell is he gonna get a career in Thailand? Not driving lowries. 

and they probably have a good nest egg from house sale....What ?? In Mansfield ??

1 hour ago, wensiensheng said:

If Mansfield is so bad (I don’t know I haven’t been there) why doesn’t he relocate to Cornwall, or Devon, or somewhere else nice in the UK?

 

I’m all for following dreams by moving to another country, I’ve done it myself 3 times, to Jersey as a teenager, to Singapore in my 30’s and Thailand in my 50’s, but this guy has no plans in place and is dragging his kids along for an adventure that he should have done when he was a teenager. All for a bit of sun that he will soon get sick of.

 why doesn’t he relocate to Cornwall, or Devon, Because it's Far More to Buy OR Even Rent in either of those 2 Areas !!

In a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to get a job here driving trucks

7 minutes ago, Blueman1 said:

 why doesn’t he relocate to Cornwall, or Devon, Because it's Far More to Buy OR Even Rent in either of those 2 Areas !!

 

4 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

In a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to gIn a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to get a job here driving trucks get a job here driving trucks.......I Already Said THAT.......

 

 

4 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

6 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

In a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to get a job here driving trucks

 

 

4 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

 if he intends to work..............But He Can't Work THAT Job here,Can He ??

5 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

In a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to get a job here driving trucks

 

5 minutes ago, Grumpy one said:

In a few weeks this plonker will be crying as it was impossible to get a job here driving trucks

 

 

6 hours ago, Presnock said:

Having a daughter here, tried local schools for a couple of years and definitely not worth it IMHO.  Then moved to international school of CM - very positive - some students go to the top US universities.  My daughter had scholarships but opted to go to the top Thai University and this third year has been selected to attend a top Korean University for her third year.   She graduated from CMIS speaking, reading, teaching in 4 different languages - Chinese, Korean, Thai and English.  Also a computer whiz and CMIS taught her to WANT to learn all that she could as we never pressured her.  Self schooling totally here in a foreign country would meant that these children might miss a lot of the social interactings which all the world learned about during the COVID pandemic when all were shuttered.

 

FROM ABOVE: "Self schooling totally here in a foreign country would meant that these children might miss a lot of the social interactings which all the world learned about during the COVID pandemic when all were shuttered."

 

And the kids especially need toal interaction, all day, with Thai kids to help them / give them the knowledge of local behaviors / local language needed to asimilate.

3 hours ago, MarkBR said:

Go for thai schools that have international programmes & use recognised decent exam boards: AQA/Oxford-AQA, Cambridge, Edexcel, IB; then get the kids to go solely for passing these exams even if using integrated curricula - they are bound to pass everything else.   This is so the kids can go to universities of their choice, if they do well.

Yes but the problem or challenge that soes with this is the fact that he has 2 kids and these schools are not inexpensive

 

I may be wrong, but to me, they should have taken a month when the kids were not in school to come here and try it out. I looked at the actual data, not the research online. Then they could have come here with a better plan, although to be honest, I am not sure they are telling the media everything.

 

I would love to see how it goes and if i can find their tik tok might actually follow it.

 

 

On 7/14/2025 at 10:04 AM, snoop1130 said:

Picture courtesy of The Independent

 

In a bold move, Dale Smith, an HGV driver from Nottinghamshire, is relocating his family to Thailand with just a suitcase and dreams, citing the unbearable living conditions in “Broken Britain.”

 

Frustrated by soaring bills and dreary weather, Smith, his wife Kim, and their children Noah and Molly will leave Mansfield for Bangkok this November, carrying little more than essentials.

 

Despite earning more, Smith feels trapped by financial pressures. “The prices are sky-high, and the streets are in a state,” he shared on TikTok. “We want to escape this routine.”

 

Selling their home and car, the Smiths plan to land in Thailand with savings and a sense of adventure. “We’re taking nothing but clothes. What else do we need?” Smith remarked.

 

Dissatisfaction is not only financial; the children find their education disengaging. The parents intend to homeschool them, incorporating practical skills and language learning.

 

“We’re not closing the door on formal education,” Smith clarified, ensuring the kids could pursue qualifications later.

 

The family's journey begins in Bangkok, moving to Hua Hin to determine living costs. Though their plans are fluid, Smith is unfazed. “We’ll probably rent a furnished place. One less worry.”

 

 

Smith’s TikTok has garnered 1.5 million views, resonating with those seeking a similar escape. “It’s scary but amazing, especially for the children,” he said, confident of an improved quality of life.

 

Having researched visas, flights, and costs meticulously, the family's ultimate goal is freedom rather than a strict plan.

 

“We’re not fleeing; we’re pursuing a better life,” Smith declared. They aim to document their travels online, potentially turning it into income.

 

With enough savings for a few years, Smith reassures that the UK remains an option if needed. “We can return anytime to spend quality time with family.”

 

His message to others: “Don’t live in regret. If you dream of change, don’t be afraid. Embrace life now.”

 

And so, the Smiths embark on this venture, driven by hope and the promise of new experiences.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-14

 

 

Only to move back to the UK within 12 months. A lorry driver in Thailand wow i’m sure the thai workers will welcome him to their ranks. 🙈

Good luck Dale I left mansfield  donkeys years ago, Thailand is not all it's cracked up to be, get to the wrong places and you will be paying

Visas might be his biggest problem . Maybe they have enough cash to last them a few years - even in Mansfield the average house is probably worth £ 170 k . Maybe they have an inheritance also ? maybe a lottery win ? We don`t know the full story . Whatever happens it should be an experience and an education in itself for the kids to experience another culture .

23 hours ago, Magictoad said:

He's gonna work...

There's nothing I've seen that indicates that. Unless you class posting videos on TikTok and YouTube as work.

23 hours ago, Nick Carter icp said:

He was working and so would have to file tax returns .

Even if he went abroad he would have to file tax returns 

 

Most people working in the UK do not file tax returns. 

 

As the UK government website below states: 

 

Quote

Most people pay Income Tax through PAYE.

 

How you pay income tax

 

https://www.gov.uk/income-tax/how-you-pay-income-tax

 

If your tax is deducted automatically via PAYE (which as the website points out, is the case for most people) you don't need to file a tax return. 

 

I worked in the UK for many years - I never filed a tax return. I also never filed one after I moved abroad. Never had any comeback from HMRC about it, either. 

Sounds completely irresponsbile and stupid: they have no plan on how to make a living, he's certainly not going to be able to work as a truck driver in Thailand and YouTube doesn't pay that much. Their savings will run out a lot sooner than they think. All those YouTube losers documenting how "you can retire in Thailand on $1000/mo" are putting stupid ideas in people's heads. Yes- you may be able to survive in Thailand on that living poorly, eating poorly, and doing nothing for fun - but if you want to actually have a good quality of life you need at least triple that and even more for a family.

 

And then you have visa (which they haven't seem to considered) - you can't just land and stay for a few months. Health insurance (or gofundme later). And kids educations: homeschooling has it's limitations. The kids won't be able to go to a Thai school (language barrier) so the only option is expensive international schools.

 

Basically what they are planning is a young single person's getaway, but bringing the kids with. Almost sounds like this is more of a YouTube gimmick than an actual plan.

There is a sucker born every minute. Just goes to show you how warped the internet is and the influence it has.