If you come to another country yet expect it to be like the one you left then of course you wont enjoy living there. If you do then why did you leave somewhere else to come to Thailand?

1 hour ago, SMIAI said:

I think some really aren't quite getting the topic of conversation 😊 Unwittingly providing us all with some entertainment.

 

We call them "curtain twitchers".

 

AI Overview

A "curtain twitcher" is a British slang term for someone who enjoys watching their neighbours, often from behind a curtain, to see what they are doing. It implies a degree of nosiness and is often used in a slightly disapproving or humorous way. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Meaning:

The term refers to the act of subtly observing others, typically from a window, while trying not to be seen. 

Origin:

The phrase is believed to have originated in the 1940s, coinciding with the popularity of net curtains in British homes according to the Oxford English Dictionary. 

Connotation:

While not always negative, "curtain twitcher" often carries a sense of disapproval or mild mockery, suggesting someone who is overly interested in the lives of others. 

This is one of the reasons why I never make loud sex sounds. It always feels like someone is just behind the wall listening.

It's great to hear people are generally happy in Thailand. Most don't crow about it online, but live their lives.

 

My wife is Thai and we've been visiting Thailand every 2-3 years and 3 weeks and we are ready to go home to Washington State. On the other hand, we really like Thailand, too. Tradeoffs and we plan to make that tradeoff in a few years. A lot of Thai culture has rubbed off on me from marriage and living with some Thai people and find a lot to appreciate about it. 

 

We are usually happy to get home probably because we don't have our own place in Thailand and spend it in affordable hotels and such. 

On 7/30/2025 at 11:44 AM, KhaoHom said:

The more foreigners that leave the happier I am. Farang of all races and nationalities.

 

*The brokies

*Anyone using agents

*30-40k Teacher riffraff

*All drugs ingesters

*All Africans

*All illegal Indians

*All the French

*All British chavs

*All male poser influencers

*All cigarette, vape and weed smokers

*All skezy homosexuals

* All ugly, moaning, judgy farang women 18-88

 

Half farang populations in Phuket, Pattaya ... Just go.

 

GTFO

you didn't mention Canadian living in northern Thailand, Whew i think I'm ok

1 hour ago, folkstone said:

you didn't mention Canadian living in northern Thailand, Whew i think I'm ok

 

* All Canadians

 

FTFY 👍

 

 

🤣

On 7/30/2025 at 12:47 AM, PB172111 said:

Factors Contributing to Expat Discontent

1. Relationship Struggles
   - Many expats face challenges in their personal relationships, particularly within marriage. Cultural differences and communication barriers can lead to frequent misunderstandings, increasing stress and fostering complaints about life in Thailand.

2. Scams and Dishonesty
   - Experiences of being scammed, whether by businesses or individuals, can create a sense of distrust among expats. Such negative encounters can lead to feelings of victimization and fuel constant grievances about the local environment.

3. Complex Immigration Requirements
   - Thailand’s immigration laws can be complicated and frustrating for expats. Frequent changes to regulations and the bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining or renewing visas can lead to feelings of frustration and insecurity about their status in the country.

4. Imperfect Law Enforcement
   - Perceptions of law enforcement in Thailand can be problematic. Cases of corruption, inefficiency, or lack of support when issues arise may lead expats to feel vulnerable and disillusioned, contributing to their complaints.

5. Past Misjudgments
   - Many expats may arrive with preconceived notions and expectations that don’t align with reality. Missteps in social interactions, business dealings, or cultural engagements can result in disappointment and exacerbate feelings of dissatisfaction.

 

Why Bangkok and Pattaya Can Attract a Particular Demographic

1. Vibrant but Superficial Lifestyle
   - The nightlife and entertainment options in Bangkok and Pattaya appeal to those seeking a fun-focused lifestyle over meaningful engagement. This creates an environment that may attract individuals who prioritize amusement over intellectual or cultural pursuits.

2. Accessibility and Affordability
   - Both cities offer a relatively low cost of living, making them accessible to a broader range of people, including those who may not have extensive education or career skills. This may result in a concentration of individuals who are less equipped to navigate challenges effectively.

3. Echo Chambers
   - The high density of expats in these cities creates communal environments where negative experiences and complaints can be magnified. Common discontent can solidify a perspective of dissatisfaction that becomes normalized within these communities.

4. Cultural Disconnect
   - Expats who prefer to remain within their comfort zones, avoiding deeper cultural immersion, may struggle to acclimate and bond with the local community. This lack of connection can result in a persistent sense of alienation and dissatisfaction.

Should You Stay?

- Self-Reflection and Growth: it may be beneficial to assess underlying issues, such as their expectations and behaviors. If they are open to learning, adapting, and engaging with the culture, staying could lead to a more rewarding experience. Conversely, if they remain resistant and focused on negativity, it might be time to reconsider their living situation.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging connection with local communities can significantly enhance their experience. Expats who actively seek out relationships and understanding may find more fulfillment in their lives abroad.
-Potential for Improvement: Ultimately, those who address their challenges constructively and seek personal growth may discover that their experiences in Thailand can improve, while others who continue to focus solely on grievances may find it increasingly difficult to thrive. 

In essence, expats in Thailand are often held back by personal issues and misunderstandings. A willingness to adapt and engage deeply can reshape their experience for the better, while a focus on negativity may lead them to question their choice to stay.

Just another LOG - Lonely Old Guy - who needs to go back to wherever he came from.  Seriously, there is no reason to stay in a place that makes to so miserable and discontented.

5 minutes ago, CM Dad said:

Just another LOG - Lonely Old Guy - who needs to go back to wherever he came from.  Seriously, there is no reason to stay in a place that makes to so miserable and discontented.

If that were true they would have left already.

8 minutes ago, CM Dad said:

Just another LOG - Lonely Old Guy - who needs to go back to wherever he came from.  Seriously, there is no reason to stay in a place that makes to so miserable and discontented.

 

I can understand the bitterness when reality hits some of the older expats or even the younger ones, when Thailand do not return their expectations. 

 

Failed relationships, investments, savings used up, and then the pollution and heat becomes a problem, when you do not have much else to do than jut sit around and observe other people having fun. 

 

Solid Economy is nr 1 for most to happiness in Thailand, 2. good health, 3. a good relationship and a few good friends, but still lack of discipline is the slow killer for most who get stuck in Thailand, and makes people stop caring for themselves and others. 

 

If you do not care about yourself, how do people expect other to care about you?

On 7/30/2025 at 8:50 AM, Gottfrid said:

So what you really saying is that there are a bunch of losers that made a decision to live in Thailand.

Yes, that is what he is saying -with the exception of all of us who understand the system and have a very enjoyable life. 

Those of us, whom I suspect are the majority, know the rules - understand what we need to do to integrate in Thai culture and way of life - even though we may moan from time to time, yet abide by these rules and enjoy our new home, without these daily dramatic injections of why we fail to be 'happy'.

I am happy and don't really need to told otherwise. 

Each to their own. Those that don't like, accept or understand the Thai people - aren't forced to stay.

Neither am I. I am here by choice. the last 20 years have been far more pleasant than any form of existing in a western society.

I see no reason to question my judgement, feel no 'homesickness', nor have any regrets.

I made it my home!

16 hours ago, Hummin said:

Solid Economy is nr 1 for most to happiness in Thailand, 2. good health, 3. a good relationship and a few good friends, but still lack of discipline is the slow killer for most who get stuck in Thailand, and makes people stop caring for themselves and others. 

Totally disagree,

Affordable housing, food and transport is more than most pensioners in the world expect from life. A beer and a woman in your hand is the icing on the retired guys cake.

3 hours ago, BritManToo said:

Totally disagree,

Affordable housing, food and transport is more than most pensioners in the world expect from life. A beer and a woman in your hand is the icing on the retired guys cake.

A skint guy with a beer on one hand and a hooker on the other.

 

Does he spend his spare time yachting and playing polo?

 

Totally, dude...

10 minutes ago, Mark1969 said:

A skint guy with a beer on one hand and a hooker on the other.

Does he spend his spare time yachting and playing polo?

Totally, dude...

Most pensioners worldwide are skint, and trying to eke out a meagre existence.

Do you look down on everyone with less than you?

3 hours ago, Bundooman said:

Yes, that is what he is saying -with the exception of all of us who understand the system and have a very enjoyable life. 

Those of us, whom I suspect are the majority, know the rules - understand what we need to do to integrate in Thai culture and way of life - even though we may moan from time to time, yet abide by these rules and enjoy our new home, without these daily dramatic injections of why we fail to be 'happy'.

I am happy and don't really need to told otherwise. 

Each to their own. Those that don't like, accept or understand the Thai people - aren't forced to stay.

Neither am I. I am here by choice. the last 20 years have been far more pleasant than any form of existing in a western society.

I see no reason to question my judgement, feel no 'homesickness', nor have any regrets.

I made it my home!

True. As always, we don´t see all the ones who are happy and content with their life in Thailand. Same for me, as I came here 26-27 years ago, give or take. Never had any problems settling or doing my daily stuff. Thai´s in my area are friendly, and if I go somewhere I am met by the same kind of friendly people.

It´s just this horrible moaning from a few, as I also believe the majority have no problem. And, as you say, no one is forced to stay. Might however be a truth with modification. The ones who moan and complain, are often the ones who though they could just pack up and move. No planning, no economical checks and sold it all off and have nothing to return to. So there we probably have the reason for the moaning. 

6 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

Most pensioners worldwide are skint, and trying to eke out a meagre existence.

Do you look down on everyone with less than you?

Did it ever cross your mind, that the guy might not have been skint, if he didn´t overdose beers and hookers? That´s probably what we look down on. I other words, we are looking down on stupidity.

On 8/2/2025 at 8:30 AM, jayboy said:

 

Maybe time for you to reflect on what is happening in Wales

 

https://nation.cymru/news/reform-leads-over-plaid-again-in-latest-senedd-poll

eah well Wales isnt Scotland. We Scots have  a lot more sense than to vote for   a pratt like farage.

35 minutes ago, brianwilliamswales said:

eah well Wales isnt Scotland. We Scots have  a lot more sense than to vote for   a pratt like farage.

Do you have a mandate to speak for all Scots?

On 7/31/2025 at 2:44 PM, ThreeCardMonte said:

 

You have misunderstood my post.

The visa is good for 10 years.  Initial permission to stay is for 5 years.  
 

One must report to the BOI once per year. No 90 days reporting.

 

If you depart and return during the year, the one year reporting clock starts over.

 

After the initial 5 years, one must resubmit the same qualifying paperwork to BOI for another 5 years permission to stay.

 

Difference is the second five years is FREE.

 

 

Very impressive, but some of us are fortunate enough to not have to work to stay and live in Thailand.

On 7/30/2025 at 9:20 AM, BritManToo said:

It's a personal choice to be happy or unhappy, content or discontent.

 

I choose to be happy!

"The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven"

I thought it was ZZ Top but turns out it's John Milton, whoever he is.

6 minutes ago, emptypockets said:

Very impressive, but some of us are fortunate enough to not have to work to stay and live in Thailand.

I am envious but I feel my standard of living is so much better with the added income from work.

 

Most of the time I feel like work is pleasant and easy but sometimes I think, what if I had every day free?

I could survive but maybe not as worry free financially.

On 7/30/2025 at 9:07 AM, Will B Good said:

 

Yes, sadly.

 

Along with CSVD, SSHL and looming vascular dementia......thanks for reminding me.

 

Have a nice day.

"Why you're at it, why doncha give me a nice paper cut and pour lemon juice on it?"