A new life in Chiang Mai: interview with Wim, a 67-year-old expat from the Netherlands

Wim (67) left everything behind in the Netherlands to start a new life in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The dream of a quiet and warm existence brought him here, but reality sometimes turned out to be more complex than expected.

In this candid interview, Wim shares the highs and lows of his emigration and gives an honest insight into his new life.

About the decision to move

Question: What was the main reason for your move to Chiang Mai?
Wim: “After I retired, I started to wonder more and more what I actually wanted to do with the rest of my life. I have always loved traveling, and I needed a place where I could really feel free, without the cold winters and high costs of the Netherlands. Thailand appealed to me because of the warmth, the culture and the friendly people. So yes, it was actually a dream that I had cherished for years, but only dared to make it come true when I realized that I no longer wanted to limit myself.”

Question: Did you already have experience with Thailand before you made the decision to move?
Wim: “Yes, I had been on holiday to Thailand a few times, but always for short periods. The atmosphere in Chiang Mai appealed to me in particular; it is easy-going and life seems to go a lot slower than in the Netherlands. I always found it difficult to return home after such a holiday. That nagging feeling remained, as if I actually belonged there.”

Question: How did those around you react to your decision to emigrate?
Wim: “Well, it was a bit of a mixed bag. My kids understood – they saw how much I dreamed of living somewhere else, but they also found it hard that I would be so far away. A few friends thought I was crazy, especially at my age. But you know, at some point I realised that it was my life, and I had to take control. That gave me the strength to keep going.”

First impressions and adjustments

Question: What were your first impressions of Chiang Mai when you arrived?
Wim: "It was overwhelming. The smells, the sounds, the chaos - everything was different from what I was used to. But at the same time I felt at home immediately. It felt like I was finally where I was supposed to be. Especially the smiles of the people here gave me such a warm feeling, like I was welcomed by a big family."

Question: What aspects of Thai life did you find most difficult to adjust to?
Wim: “I have to be honest, the traffic! At first I thought I would never be able to cross the road safely, let alone drive a scooter. The language was also a big challenge. And sometimes, when I tried to arrange things quickly and efficiently, I would run into the Thai 'mai pen rai' mentality – a kind of 'it will be fine' attitude. It was frustrating at times, but I eventually learned to appreciate it.”

Question: How does daily life here differ from the Netherlands?
Wim: “Here I live more in the moment. In the Netherlands I was always busy planning and arranging, but here I just let things happen. Life is simpler, less rushed. I go to the market in the morning, chat with the people, and enjoy a cup of coffee while looking at the mountains. So simple, but so beautiful.”

Living and working in Chiang Mai

Question: How did you find housing? Was that a challenge?
Wim: “In the beginning, yes. I didn’t really know where to look and I had no idea about the prices. Luckily I met a German expat who helped me. Now I live in a small house just outside the city. It has a garden and a beautiful view of the mountains. I could never have afforded that in the Netherlands.”

Question: Are you still working, or are you retired? If so, what do you do?
Wim: “I am officially retired, but I still teach some English to local children from time to time. Just volunteering for fun, to keep busy and give something back to the community.”

Question: How is the work culture in Thailand compared to the Netherlands?
Wim: "It's much more relaxed here. There's less pressure on performance and the work-life balance is really different. In the Netherlands I lived to work, here I work occasionally to live."

Social contacts and integration

Question: How did you make new friends in Chiang Mai? Is it mainly other expats or also Thai locals?
Wim: “In the beginning it was mainly expats, because you automatically come into contact with them more. But after a while I also got to know Thai people, especially through my classes and the market. The people here are really open and hospitable.”

Question: Have you learned to speak Thai? How important do you think it is to know the language for your integration?
Wim: “Yes, I took a few courses and can now have a simple conversation. It really opens doors and you notice that people appreciate it when you make the effort. It shows that you are not just a tourist, but really want to integrate.”

Question: Are there any cultural customs that you have adopted?
Wim: “Yes, when I cook it is mainly Thai. Also a Wai as a greeting is something I do automatically. It gives me a feeling of respect and connection.”

Practical issues

Question: How did you manage the move, and are there things you would do differently with the knowledge you have now?
Wim: "It was a lot of arranging. In hindsight, I should have taken less stuff. You don't need so much here, and you can buy a lot of things on the spot."

Question: How do you arrange matters such as healthcare, insurance and banking in Thailand?
Wim: "I have a good international health insurance and do my banking through a Thai account. It took a bit of research, but it's all doable."

Question: What tips do you have for other Dutch people considering moving to Chiang Mai?
Wim: “Do your homework, but also stay flexible. Don't get carried away by all the things you 'should' arrange. You only discover most things when you're here.”

Quality of life and free time

Question: What does a typical day look like for you in Chiang Mai?
Wim: “I get up early, enjoy a cup of coffee in the garden and then go for a walk. Then I do some shopping, read a book or meet friends for lunch. In the evening I sometimes go to the market or eat at a local restaurant.”

Question: What activities and places do you recommend for others living in or visiting Chiang Mai?
Wim: “Doi Suthep is a must, but also explore the smaller temples. Visit the local markets, and take the time to talk to the people. These are the real treasures of Chiang Mai.”

Question: How do you find the balance between enjoying the city and tropical life, and any responsibilities or work?
Wim: "That balance comes naturally. Here you are forced to live more slowly and enjoy the little things. That is something I had forgotten in the Netherlands."

Looking back and the future

Question: Would you ever consider returning to the Netherlands? Why or why not?
Wim: “No, I feel at home here. Of course I miss my children and grandchildren, but I visit them regularly. And they come here too. The Netherlands no longer feels like my home, this is my place now.”

Question: What are your future plans in Thailand? Are you thinking of staying here for a long time?
Wim: “I will stay here as long as my health allows it. I may travel around Asia a bit, but my base will remain Chiang Mai.”

Question: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self before moving to Chiang Mai, what would it be?
Wim: “Just do it. Don’t wait until everything is perfect, because that moment will never come. Life is too short to doubt.”

And with a broad smile, Wim concludes: “Chiang Mai has given me the freedom to really live, and I wish that for everyone.”