My Thai wife doesn't like Thailand

[Banzai99]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

[thailiketoo]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

A number of higher education institutes have recently increased opportunity for various types of students to study at the higher level. In 2007, the Education Council estimated that the number of new students enrolled in bachelors programs between 2007 and 2016 will be approximately 500,000 each year, resulting in between 300,000 to 400,000 new graduates per annum.

[digibum]

http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/beginning-salary-plastic-surgeon-5563.html

Several other sources track physician salaries, and provide further insight into plastic surgery's earning potential. For example, the American Medical Group Association's 2012 salary survey places the median salary for plastic surgeons at $409,772 per year. The rival Medical Group Management Association, in a 2011 survey, reported an average salary of $433,510 for plastic and reconstructive surgeons. A 2011 special issue of "Modern Healthcare" magazine reviewed multiple physician salary surveys, returning a range of responses for plastic surgeons. The lowest reported average in that overview was $360,000 per year, and the highest was $450,000 per year.

In Baht that is 14,850,000 per year.

You wrote, " Why do so many Thai doctors migrate back to Thailand? I don't have a good answer to that."

I do. The great majority of Thais like living in Thailand. The upset ones or the ones who buy into the myth of Western superiority are actually quite small. That's why you see all of the errors in English language signs and publications. They just don't give a darn about your language or country or society.

I agree with you that most thais like living in thailand. The rest of your comment is utter nonsense.

Agreed.

However, even the comment that Thais like living in Thailand is predicated on the fact that the vast majority of Thais have no idea what living outside of Thailand is like. I think it would be much more interesting if you compared Thais who have lived in another country.

That's why I compared medical students/doctors (same for dentists). If they wanted to work in the USA they could earn 15 million baht per year but they they don't. I doubt most medical students have not at least traveled outside of Thailand for extended periods of time.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

[Banzai99]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

A number of higher education institutes have recently increased opportunity for various types of students to study at the higher level. In 2007, the Education Council estimated that the number of new students enrolled in bachelors programs between 2007 and 2016 will be approximately 500,000 each year, resulting in between 300,000 to 400,000 new graduates per annum.

Sorry Pal, I'm not an English teacher.

[digibum]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

A number of higher education institutes have recently increased opportunity for various types of students to study at the higher level. In 2007, the Education Council estimated that the number of new students enrolled in bachelors programs between 2007 and 2016 will be approximately 500,000 each year, resulting in between 300,000 to 400,000 new graduates per annum.

And in Thailand, that'll qualify you for what? You need a bachelors degree just to work as a receptionist in an international hotel or to sell handbags in a hi-so shop.

[Thai at Heart]

If Thailand is so bad, why do so many of us expats want nothing more than to be able to live out our lives there?

Thailand is good for expats exactly for many of the reasons that it's bad for Thais.

Eighty percent of Thais live in relative poverty. That means your typical expat can make a teacher's salary and still seem like he's doing well. I can assure you that if expats were living life on the same level as most Thais they wouldn't be flocking to Thailand the way that they do now.

Expats exploit an income/wealth inequality to live a life better than they could live back home. I don't mean the world "exploit" to be negative. It's simply an accurate description of why many expats come to Thailand. Any time you take advantage of a inefficiency in the market, you're exploiting it.

It's a tough question though because the dynamics of everything would change if the situation were different. If Thailand had the economy that SIngapore or Hong Kong does, expats would still come to Thailand but it would be the same kinds of expats that you see in Hong Kong and Singapore and less like the expats you see in Thailand. Many of the expats living in Thailand today might hate a Thailand that had an economy that was buzzing like HKG and Sing. They wouldn't be able to afford the lifestyle they live with their current jobs.

Re myself, I have to disagree that I have a better life in Thailand because I have more money than a Thai, as I probably have less to spend than a middle class Thai, given that the majority of my money is for the visa extension, and I have to live on around 10,000 to 15,000 a month. Obviously I live better than a Thai on 5,000 a month, but I'm not living in a condo and having NZ lamb for dinner on my available funds.

The reason I like Thailand ( leaving aside my wife ), is that it's usually warm/ hot, cheap to eat, cheap transport, cheap movies/ DVDs and there are more pretty girls to enjoy than back home. Plus, it's way less PC and regulated, and I feel safer there from being mugged etc.

Obviously it's different strokes for different folks but a good chunk of all the reasons you listed are financial. So what I was saying is that if the economic conditions improved in Thailand and everything became more expensive, as in on HKG and Sing levels, would you still find Thailand to be the nirvana you think it is today? I'm sorry but if "visa extension" is something that you factor into your cost of living, you would probably be priced out of Thailand. What if 50,000 - 100,000 was what it took to maintain your current lifestyle?

Realistically, many expats love living in Thailand because they live better, relatively, than they could back home. Yes, the weather is nice, the food is nice, the girls are nice, etc, etc but for the majority of people, it's the cost of living. Take away that, and Thailand is no longer the heaven on earth many people view it as today.

I know very few expats that would have ever moved to Thailand or who would stay in Thailand if they had to live on 5,000 - 10,000 baht a month. The food, weather, girls, etc are not nice enough to overcome that culture shock :-)

I would believe that it's impossible for Thailand to become as prosperous as Singapore or HK whilst remaining as lawless and chaotic as Thailand

Its incompatible.

[thailiketoo]

Agreed.

However, even the comment that Thais like living in Thailand is predicated on the fact that the vast majority of Thais have no idea what living outside of Thailand is like. I think it would be much more interesting if you compared Thais who have lived in another country.

That's why I compared medical students/doctors (same for dentists). If they wanted to work in the USA they could earn 15 million baht per year but they they don't. I doubt most medical students have not at least traveled outside of Thailand for extended periods of time.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

[thailiketoo]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

A number of higher education institutes have recently increased opportunity for various types of students to study at the higher level. In 2007, the Education Council estimated that the number of new students enrolled in bachelors programs between 2007 and 2016 will be approximately 500,000 each year, resulting in between 300,000 to 400,000 new graduates per annum.

And in Thailand, that'll qualify you for what? You need a bachelors degree just to work as a receptionist in an international hotel or to sell handbags in a hi-so shop.

But you would have a choice to be a receptionist or sell handbags or sell autos, or go to grad school or be a stewardess, or Macdonald's manager, or work for Ford, Toyota, Mercedes or Honda. Or be a nurse, or be a teacher or be a pharmacist or ............ Choices upon choices. That's what I am saying and about 500,000 new college graduates have choices every year. 50% of the Thai labor force is off the farm now.

[ZigZagMan]

Agreed.

However, even the comment that Thais like living in Thailand is predicated on the fact that the vast majority of Thais have no idea what living outside of Thailand is like. I think it would be much more interesting if you compared Thais who have lived in another country.

That's why I compared medical students/doctors (same for dentists). If they wanted to work in the USA they could earn 15 million baht per year but they they don't. I doubt most medical students have not at least traveled outside of Thailand for extended periods of time.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

Status.

Come back to Thailand with a PHD and you can be an arrogant prick.

Top of the food chain.

[NeverSure]

Agreed.

However, even the comment that Thais like living in Thailand is predicated on the fact that the vast majority of Thais have no idea what living outside of Thailand is like. I think it would be much more interesting if you compared Thais who have lived in another country.

That's why I compared medical students/doctors (same for dentists). If they wanted to work in the USA they could earn 15 million baht per year but they they don't. I doubt most medical students have not at least traveled outside of Thailand for extended periods of time.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

You are so brainwashed and hostile that you are hopeless. I showed a picture of one rural US town and pointed out that in that town most of the utilities were underground. You came back, without reference and said that 90 percent of US lines are above ground. That may or may not be true because transmission lines are above ground and many areas do have lines above ground. But the lines a are never like Thailand - A dangerous jumble of noodles.

Now you say a home in Florida is $300K. Well of course some are and some in Thailand are. But here is a quick list of $80,000 (2.5 mil baht) homes in Florida and they include the land which one may own.

They also have 1st world infrastructure with safe water and electric and Western kitchens, two Western style bathrooms, 3 bedrooms. You CAN'T compare the normal US middle class home to a piece of crap home built in Thailand.

LOOK and scroll down past the 4 that are ads. Click on the picture to see more pictures. Look at the neighborhoods, the lack of litter and the general orderliness.

This is the way the poor people live in the US. These are poor people but not as poor as poor Thais.

[thailiketoo]

That's why I compared medical students/doctors (same for dentists). If they wanted to work in the USA they could earn 15 million baht per year but they they don't. I doubt most medical students have not at least traveled outside of Thailand for extended periods of time.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

You are so brainwashed and hostile that you are hopeless. I showed a picture of one rural US town and pointed out that in that town most of the utilities were underground. You came back, without reference and said that 90 percent of US lines are above ground. That may or may not be true because transmission lines are above ground and many areas do have lines above ground. But the lines a are never like Thailand - A dangerous jumble of noodles.

Now you say a home in Florida is $300K. Well of course some are and some in Thailand are. But here is a quick list of $80,000 (2.5 mil baht) homes in Florida and they include the land which one may own.

They also have 1st world infrastructure with safe water and electric and Western kitchens, two Western style bathrooms, 3 bedrooms. You CAN'T compare the normal US middle class home to a piece of crap home built in Thailand.

LOOK and scroll down past the 4 that are ads. Click on the picture to see more pictures. Look at the neighborhoods, the lack of litter and the general orderliness.

This is the way the poor people live in the US. These are poor people but not as poor as poor Thais.

You wrote, ". I showed a picture of one rural US town and pointed out that in that town most of the utilities were underground" Why did you do that? I'll tell you why. To imply that power lines in the USA are underground. They ain't.

What is the biggest purchase any normal person will ever make? House. I built two houses. One in the States in Florida close to the beach. I built another house almost identical in Thailand same distance from the beach. The one in the States cost $300,000 and the one in Thailand cost $30,000. Land I own? Ha ha. The first house I bought with a loan and my wife, during a divorce, got the house. The house in Thailand my Thai wife bought with a loan and we both are paying for it now on a monthly basis.

What was the advantage of owing the land my house was built on in the USA? Well, my ex wife ruined my credit rating not making payments on time. She got the house in a divorce but not the bank loan. That stayed in my name.

[thailiketoo]

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

Status.

Come back to Thailand with a PHD and you can be an arrogant prick.

Top of the food chain.

I was writing about Medical doctors not PhDs. But I suppose it makes little difference. People can be arrogant pricks regardless of education. However I find people with little education and lots of authority (Army and Police) to be the largest arrogant pricks.

[digibum]

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

I think it's far more likely that they get a better deal in Thailand.

Your rural doctor isn't US educated. It's the guys doing bypass surgeries at medical tourism hospitals that have US and UK medical degrees.

First, factor in the fact that few Thais are going to medical school in the US without mommy and daddy being very influential and having very deep pockets. When a doctor finishes medical school, they typically have a residency period of 1 - 7 years depending on their specialty. During that time, they get, pretty miserable pay. Yes, it's not McDonald's pay but considering the amount of time and money they've already invested and knowledge they've acquired, it's peanuts. The article you linked to indicated $50,000 - $60,000 a year which is the median wage in the US. So, after obtaining a bachelors degree, and a four year medical degree, for the next several years they'll make what many college grads can make with 2 or 3 years experience in far less demanding disciplines and would have you living near poverty levels in any major US city like Los Angeles or NYC.

When they complete residency, with 12 - 14 years of higher education, they start at the bottom of the food chain (i.e. they have no portfolio of patients). They can work for an established hospital and build up a clientele or work for a medical practice and attempt to build up their own clients which they can spin off into their own practice.

Or, they could return to Thailand and move to near the top of the medical food chain because of their western medical degree. On top of that, mommy and daddy who just got done investing several hundred grand in their education, are very likely to have the kinds of connections to get their new doctor son or daughter a job anywhere they want to work plus connections to people with enough wealth to be able to afford private medical care.

Basically, it's a question of whether they want to be a small fish in a big pond (staying overseas) or a big fish in a small pond (returning to Thailand).

While propaganda does play a part, I don't think it plays any more a part for a highly educated Thai than it does for any American, Brit, German or anyone else. I'm guessing that if a Thai doctor could have the same advantages in the US or UK as he could back in Thailand, most would probably not return to practice medicine in Thailand in the numbers that Thais currently return today.

[digibum]

I think it's wonderful for people who have the choice to choose, 99% of Thai people have no choice.

A number of higher education institutes have recently increased opportunity for various types of students to study at the higher level. In 2007, the Education Council estimated that the number of new students enrolled in bachelors programs between 2007 and 2016 will be approximately 500,000 each year, resulting in between 300,000 to 400,000 new graduates per annum.

And in Thailand, that'll qualify you for what? You need a bachelors degree just to work as a receptionist in an international hotel or to sell handbags in a hi-so shop.

But you would have a choice to be a receptionist or sell handbags or sell autos, or go to grad school or be a stewardess, or Macdonald's manager, or work for Ford, Toyota, Mercedes or Honda. Or be a nurse, or be a teacher or be a pharmacist or ............ Choices upon choices. That's what I am saying and about 500,000 new college graduates have choices every year. 50% of the Thai labor force is off the farm now.

I think you are missing my point. Much like degrees in the US, many Thais simply go to college for the sake of getting a piece of paper. So many Thais are graduating university now that even low-level jobs require a degree. Having a degree isn't some magic ticket to prosperity (just like it's not in the US either).

Obviously, for students who select more challenging majors like those required to become a pharmacist or a computer engineer, the story is a little different but nowadays Thais need a college degree for rather menial jobs like work in department stores.

In part, it's because a college degree in Thailand basically provides what most western countries consider a high school education (and not even that in most cases). A typical Thai college degree, unless it's from Chula or some other "prestigious" university, is basically worthless.

You need an MBA or other post-graduate degree to get a decent, middle-class sort of job. A bachelors degree just means you won't be cleaning toilets or a waitress.

[thailiketoo]

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

I think it's far more likely that they get a better deal in Thailand.

Your rural doctor isn't US educated. It's the guys doing bypass surgeries at medical tourism hospitals that have US and UK medical degrees.

First, factor in the fact that few Thais are going to medical school in the US without mommy and daddy being very influential and having very deep pockets. When a doctor finishes medical school, they typically have a residency period of 1 - 7 years depending on their specialty. During that time, they get, pretty miserable pay. Yes, it's not McDonald's pay but considering the amount of time and money they've already invested and knowledge they've acquired, it's peanuts. The article you linked to indicated $50,000 - $60,000 a year which is the median wage in the US. So, after obtaining a bachelors degree, and a four year medical degree, for the next several years they'll make what many college grads can make with 2 or 3 years experience in far less demanding disciplines and would have you living near poverty levels in any major US city like Los Angeles or NYC.

When they complete residency, with 12 - 14 years of higher education, they start at the bottom of the food chain (i.e. they have no portfolio of patients). They can work for an established hospital and build up a clientele or work for a medical practice and attempt to build up their own clients which they can spin off into their own practice.

Or, they could return to Thailand and move to near the top of the medical food chain because of their western medical degree. On top of that, mommy and daddy who just got done investing several hundred grand in their education, are very likely to have the kinds of connections to get their new doctor son or daughter a job anywhere they want to work plus connections to people with enough wealth to be able to afford private medical care.

Basically, it's a question of whether they want to be a small fish in a big pond (staying overseas) or a big fish in a small pond (returning to Thailand).

While propaganda does play a part, I don't think it plays any more a part for a highly educated Thai than it does for any American, Brit, German or anyone else. I'm guessing that if a Thai doctor could have the same advantages in the US or UK as he could back in Thailand, most would probably not return to practice medicine in Thailand in the numbers that Thais currently return today.

You wrote, "While propaganda does play a part, I don't think it plays any more a part for a highly educated Thai than it does for any American, Brit, German or anyone else."

U.S. physicians trained abroad.

1. India - 19.9% (47,581)
2. Philippines - 8.7% (20,861)
3. Mexico - 5.8% (13,929)
4. Pakistan - 4.8% (11,330)

US does not have socialized medicine. Doctors get paid a lot of money that's why doctors from other countries want to work in the USA except Thailand doctors.

[thailiketoo]

I think you are missing my point. Much like degrees in the US, many Thais simply go to college for the sake of getting a piece of paper. So many Thais are graduating university now that even low-level jobs require a degree. Having a degree isn't some magic ticket to prosperity (just like it's not in the US either).

Obviously, for students who select more challenging majors like those required to become a pharmacist or a computer engineer, the story is a little different but nowadays Thais need a college degree for rather menial jobs like work in department stores.

In part, it's because a college degree in Thailand basically provides what most western countries consider a high school education (and not even that in most cases). A typical Thai college degree, unless it's from Chula or some other "prestigious" university, is basically worthless.

You need an MBA or other post-graduate degree to get a decent, middle-class sort of job. A bachelors degree just means you won't be cleaning toilets or a waitress.

It is frustrating to discuss anything with you because you have no experience with the Thai education or business system. There are hundreds of trade schools which qualify Thai students for specific jobs in specific industries. There are many jobs in engineering and other fields. Out of 500,000 degrees if only 20% are technical that is 100,000 students a year. I think you forget that Thailand is the 10th largest producer of autos in the world and produces 40% of the worlds hard drives.

http://www.asianust.ac.th/english-programmes/faculty-of-engineering.html

• Welding Technology
• Materials Technology
• Estimation and Optimization Technology
• Renewable Energy Technology
• Mechanical Design Technology
• RFID Technology

• Antenna Technology
• Electromagnetic Technology
• Microwave-RF Technology

Where do graduates go? Take a look at this job add.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Degree (Welding Engineering) or equivalent (Auto Mechanic, Transportation Engineering, etc.) or higher in Welding Engineering or any related fields.
• Minimum Associate level Engineering License would be advantage.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in Welding engineering from a multinational company, familiar with manufacturing working environment (automotive- industry would be a plus).

Thailand is the industrial giant of the area far exceeding Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia.

[digibum]

You wrote, "While propaganda does play a part, I don't think it plays any more a part for a highly educated Thai than it does for any American, Brit, German or anyone else."

U.S. physicians trained abroad.

1. India - 19.9% (47,581)
2. Philippines - 8.7% (20,861)
3. Mexico - 5.8% (13,929)
4. Pakistan - 4.8% (11,330)

US does not have socialized medicine. Doctors get paid a lot of money that's why doctors from other countries want to work in the USA except Thailand doctors.

Thank you for ignoring everything else I said about Thais doctors having parents with connections and great influence and how that might influence their decision. For someone who's parents are already sufficiently wealthy that they don't have to worry about money, ever, it's not about whether or not they can make more money in the US. Money isn't the objective.

[thailiketoo]

You wrote, "While propaganda does play a part, I don't think it plays any more a part for a highly educated Thai than it does for any American, Brit, German or anyone else."

U.S. physicians trained abroad.

1. India - 19.9% (47,581)
2. Philippines - 8.7% (20,861)
3. Mexico - 5.8% (13,929)
4. Pakistan - 4.8% (11,330)

US does not have socialized medicine. Doctors get paid a lot of money that's why doctors from other countries want to work in the USA except Thailand doctors.

Thank you for ignoring everything else I said about Thais doctors having parents with connections and great influence and how that might influence their decision. For someone who's parents are already sufficiently wealthy that they don't have to worry about money, ever, it's not about whether or not they can make more money in the US. Money isn't the objective.

I agree. When everything monetary is deleted they work in Thailand because they like Thailand. That was my point.

People from India or the Philippines or Pakistan want to live in the USA. People from Thailand want to live in Thailand.

[digibum]

I think you are missing my point. Much like degrees in the US, many Thais simply go to college for the sake of getting a piece of paper. So many Thais are graduating university now that even low-level jobs require a degree. Having a degree isn't some magic ticket to prosperity (just like it's not in the US either).

Obviously, for students who select more challenging majors like those required to become a pharmacist or a computer engineer, the story is a little different but nowadays Thais need a college degree for rather menial jobs like work in department stores.

In part, it's because a college degree in Thailand basically provides what most western countries consider a high school education (and not even that in most cases). A typical Thai college degree, unless it's from Chula or some other "prestigious" university, is basically worthless.

You need an MBA or other post-graduate degree to get a decent, middle-class sort of job. A bachelors degree just means you won't be cleaning toilets or a waitress.

It is frustrating to discuss anything with you because you have no experience with the Thai education or business system. There are hundreds of trade schools which qualify Thai students for specific jobs in specific industries. There are many jobs in engineering and other fields. Out of 500,000 degrees if only 20% are technical that is 100,000 students a year. I think you forget that Thailand is the 10th largest producer of autos in the world and produces 40% of the worlds hard drives.

http://www.asianust.ac.th/english-programmes/faculty-of-engineering.html

• Welding Technology
• Materials Technology
• Estimation and Optimization Technology
• Renewable Energy Technology
• Mechanical Design Technology
• RFID Technology

• Antenna Technology
• Electromagnetic Technology
• Microwave-RF Technology

Where do graduates go? Take a look at this job add.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Degree (Welding Engineering) or equivalent (Auto Mechanic, Transportation Engineering, etc.) or higher in Welding Engineering or any related fields.
• Minimum Associate level Engineering License would be advantage.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in Welding engineering from a multinational company, familiar with manufacturing working environment (automotive- industry would be a plus).

Thailand is the industrial giant of the area far exceeding Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Believe me, it's equally frustrating speaking to you since you seem to think you know everything. I don't have a problem if we have differing opinions but you seem to speak down to everyone who doesn't agree with you. Sorry you had such a horrible life in the US but life in Thailand is not some sort of utopia. Nor is it a utopia in the US or anywhere else.

But to use your own example, if only 20% are technical, maybe I'm talking about the other 80%. You know, the vast, vast majority.

I've not denied that Thailand has some skilled labor. What I'm saying is that 70% - 80% of the people going to universities in Thailand aren't really qualified to do much more than what one would hire a high-school graduate to do back in the US. I have way, way too many friends with English degrees who can barely carry on a basic conversation in the language. I know way too many people with business degrees who think there are 360 days in a year (12 x 30).

I also see these outrageous skill requirements for basic jobs. Uni degree to work the front desk at a hotel. Uni degree required to work in a department store. Uni degree to be a receptionist.

And as far as knowing how Thais who live outside of Thailand feel, up until very recently I lived fairly close to Thai Town in Los Angeles which is the largest concentration of Thais living outside of Thailand anywhere else in the world. I spend a lot of time around Thai people living outside of the US. Business people, business owners, students, waitresses, retirees, lawyers, travel agents, house wives, etc, etc.

[thailiketoo]

It is frustrating to discuss anything with you because you have no experience with the Thai education or business system. There are hundreds of trade schools which qualify Thai students for specific jobs in specific industries. There are many jobs in engineering and other fields. Out of 500,000 degrees if only 20% are technical that is 100,000 students a year. I think you forget that Thailand is the 10th largest producer of autos in the world and produces 40% of the worlds hard drives.

http://www.asianust.ac.th/english-programmes/faculty-of-engineering.html

• Welding Technology
• Materials Technology
• Estimation and Optimization Technology
• Renewable Energy Technology
• Mechanical Design Technology
• RFID Technology

• Antenna Technology
• Electromagnetic Technology
• Microwave-RF Technology

Where do graduates go? Take a look at this job add.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Degree (Welding Engineering) or equivalent (Auto Mechanic, Transportation Engineering, etc.) or higher in Welding Engineering or any related fields.
• Minimum Associate level Engineering License would be advantage.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in Welding engineering from a multinational company, familiar with manufacturing working environment (automotive- industry would be a plus).

Thailand is the industrial giant of the area far exceeding Laos, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Believe me, it's equally frustrating speaking to you since you seem to think you know everything. I don't have a problem if we have differing opinions but you seem to speak down to everyone who doesn't agree with you. Sorry you had such a horrible life in the US but life in Thailand is not some sort of utopia. Nor is it a utopia in the US or anywhere else.

But to use your own example, if only 20% are technical, maybe I'm talking about the other 80%. You know, the vast, vast majority.

I've not denied that Thailand has some skilled labor. What I'm saying is that 70% - 80% of the people going to universities in Thailand aren't really qualified to do much more than what one would hire a high-school graduate to do back in the US. I have way, way too many friends with English degrees who can barely carry on a basic conversation in the language. I know way too many people with business degrees who think there are 360 days in a year (12 x 30).

I also see these outrageous skill requirements for basic jobs. Uni degree to work the front desk at a hotel. Uni degree required to work in a department store. Uni degree to be a receptionist.

And as far as knowing how Thais who live outside of Thailand feel, up until very recently I lived fairly close to Thai Town in Los Angeles which is the largest concentration of Thais living outside of Thailand anywhere else in the world. I spend a lot of time around Thai people living outside of the US. Business people, business owners, students, waitresses, retirees, lawyers, travel agents, house wives, etc, etc.

There are laws of supply and demand. They are not Thai laws. There are no 1000 baht Big Macs in Thailand because no one would buy them. If there was no payback for education in Thailand students would not go to a university. 500,000 Thais graduate from universities every year.

Thailand makes more motor vehicles than Canada. True or false?

Thailand makes more motor vehicles than the UK. True or false?

Thailand makes more motor vehicles than Australia? True or false?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_motor_vehicle_production

In the first half of 2011, Thailand accounted for 40% to 45% of worldwide HDD production.

There are now currently 47 industrial estates distributed over 15 provinces. 3000 factories 500,000 people employed in industrial estates alone.

The Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate. it is the country's largest industrial estate and the world's eight-largest petrochemical industrial hub.

[garrya]

I am not surprised. Most of the Thais who lived in Europe I spoke to would consider Europe as much better place than Thailand. Most of them would even say that they are surprised how polite people are in Europe comparing to what they thought.

It is the strong family ties that keeps them here. They constantly have to support their families.

[mickjn]

Lady Pla says Australia is ok but would sooner live in Thailand

[beachproperty]

while it is possible to live a decent life on far less than many of us spend in thailand,

the question becomes, but why?

the SE of the USA is as cheap to live as thailand,

there is no nightlife that isnt expensive no matter where you are, and most women are emplyed there, so they dont need a Flange to take care of their family

as each day passes, I will forget thailand exists

Scarpolo ....just don't know where you come up with this nonsense! Maybe it's your lack of experience in Thailand!

Why is that 25 million American families live paycheck to paycheck.......You call that the ideal lifestyle!

Read http://www.cbsnews.com/news/why-25-million-middle-class-americans-live-hand-to-mouth/

Also if you think the average Thai can get a visa to America ....let alone a work visa....think again....

And what type of work would the average Thai do....pick strawberries? And what kind of lifestyle would that provide.

Granted many of the responses here are about wife's of Citizens of western countries....and therefore are miles ahead on the path to a nice life (in addition to having the support of a husband/wife).

Edited April 26, 2014 by beachproperty

[beachproperty]

People on Thai Visa go on and on about how great their home countries are when they are not (I know this they don't because I'm objective). It is the same reason with Thai doctors. They have bought the propaganda of Thailand as most of the posters here have bought the propaganda of the West.

Actually, I would love to find an answer to this question as it's something I've thought about a lot (long before this thread). The medical care I've received and have seen others receive in Thailand is top-notch. I would even say, in some cases, it's better than what one could get in any western country. I have been curious as to why more of these doctors don't stay in the US or wherever they received their training.

I just have a hard time believing they do it for love of country.

I'll give you some examples. One regular TV poster says the power lines are below ground in the USA. A few are but 90% are not. Another poster says one can live in Florida for the same price as Thailand. $30.000 in Thailand buys a $300.000 home in Florida. Divorce settles ownership issues in both countries.

Why do foreign educated Thai doctors return to Thailand? Propaganda. Propaganda from family, government, religion and country. It is a big stick.

Thai doctors are going to be rich in the USA or Thailand where would a rich person live? The answer is in the USA if you are from the USA or Thailand if you are from Thailand.

You are so brainwashed and hostile that you are hopeless. I showed a picture of one rural US town and pointed out that in that town most of the utilities were underground. You came back, without reference and said that 90 percent of US lines are above ground. That may or may not be true because transmission lines are above ground and many areas do have lines above ground. But the lines a are never like Thailand - A dangerous jumble of noodles.

Now you say a home in Florida is $300K. Well of course some are and some in Thailand are. But here is a quick list of $80,000 (2.5 mil baht) homes in Florida and they include the land which one may own.

They also have 1st world infrastructure with safe water and electric and Western kitchens, two Western style bathrooms, 3 bedrooms. You CAN'T compare the normal US middle class home to a piece of crap home built in Thailand.

LOOK and scroll down past the 4 that are ads. Click on the picture to see more pictures. Look at the neighborhoods, the lack of litter and the general orderliness.

This is the way the poor people live in the US. These are poor people but not as poor as poor Thais.

You wrote, ". I showed a picture of one rural US town and pointed out that in that town most of the utilities were underground" Why did you do that? I'll tell you why. To imply that power lines in the USA are underground. They ain't.

What is the biggest purchase any normal person will ever make? House. I built two houses. One in the States in Florida close to the beach. I built another house almost identical in Thailand same distance from the beach. The one in the States cost $300,000 and the one in Thailand cost $30,000. Land I own? Ha ha. The first house I bought with a loan and my wife, during a divorce, got the house. The house in Thailand my Thai wife bought with a loan and we both are paying for it now on a monthly basis.

What was the advantage of owing the land my house was built on in the USA? Well, my ex wife ruined my credit rating not making payments on time. She got the house in a divorce but not the bank loan. That stayed in my name.

Not trying to get into the middle of your guys discourse.....But property in US vs Thailand there is ONE big difference that hasn't been mentioned. Property Tax! Thailand has none or very little if applied. The US on the other hand it's outrageous....(in Calif its about one percent of the purchase price....so in the San Francisco Bay Area where the average house goes for $800,000 dollars you have to pay $8,000 a year )