Column – Hypocrisy under the tropical sun is the new normal
Dutch people who vote GroenLinks-PvdA and live in Thailand know perfectly well how to package principles for a one-way ticket to hypocrisy. Away from the grey Netherlands, they find luxury and cheap cocktails here, while they look away from human rights violations and political chaos. With a Volkskrant on their lap and their ideals in the fridge, they enjoy a paradise that is not as green as it seems.
'Rose-colored glasses and hard truths'
Henk sees Thailand as his paradise on earth full of freedom and endless smiles. But his friend Rob, hardened by years of expat experience, has a different view. What follows is a heated clash of visions, in which their friendship seems to be at stake. Between beers and cynicism, the question arises: how far can rose-colored glasses really take you?
The Thai gossip paradise for Dutch and Belgian expats
On the terraces of Pattaya you often see them sitting: the Dutch and Belgian expats who spend their retirement in the tropics. What once started as a dream of freedom and adventure, has now degenerated into a daily ritual of drinking and gossip. With sharp tongues and endless stories, every rumor is magnified and discussed, as if it were art.
Slowly but surely, the Thai net is closing in on the taxpayer
Attention foreigners in Thailand: The Thai tax authorities now have new tools to track financial flows thanks to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS). This system, intended to combat tax evasion, can provide insight into foreign money transfers. The question is whether the Thai authorities are ready for practical implementation. Expect a stricter approach and possibly intensive controls soon.
A new life in Chiang Mai: interview with Wim, a 67-year-old expat from the Netherlands
Wim, a 67-year-old pensioner from the Netherlands, decided to leave his familiar life behind and make a fresh start in Chiang Mai. In this interview, he shares his dreams, the unexpected challenges and the emotions that come with emigrating to another continent. Read how this courageous step enriched his life, touched his heart and what valuable lessons he learned along the way.
Uncertainty about the date of introduction of new tax treaty between the Netherlands and Thailand causes unrest among expats
A recent Facebook post on 'Typisch Thailand Telex' has caused unrest among Dutch people in Thailand. Ambassador Van Wijngaarden announced that the new tax treaty will soon be submitted to the Thai cabinet. Although this sounds like positive news, the treaty has not yet been signed, and the necessary ratification procedures make it unlikely that the new rules will come into effect on 1 January 2025.
A special meeting in Bangkok
In bustling Bangkok you sometimes meet special types who continue to fascinate you. This includes Max, a German ex-businessman who was once successful, but now survives on a minimal budget in Thailand. His adventures and choices, from contraband to a botched birthday flight, offer an intriguing glimpse into expat life in this vibrant metropolis.
Long-stay expats are upset by Thailand's new visa policy that makes their expensive long-term options almost worthless. The introduction of a 60-day visa waiver policy and the 180-day Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) has led to much frustration. Many feel left behind as cheaper and more convenient options are available, significantly reducing the value of their expensive visas.
A few weeks ago I posted a short (hopefully comical) video about two grumpy and nagging Flemish Expats in Thailand. In a second video, both men go to Bang Saray because one of them wants to go fishing at all costs.
As a Flemish expat (from Antwerp), I decided last year to make a series of short comic videos with a comrade about what can happen to expats in Thailand.
'Expat exit' a new thriller by Patricia Snel
It has been several years since a female blog reader commented on an article, the subject of which I do not remember, frankly said that she had come to Thailand with her husband, but that the marriage had broken down. Whether the cause of the subsequent divorce has to do with the husband's adultery, I do not know, but it is quite conceivable in a country with so many beautiful and lovely ladies.
'Bangkok Babylon' about strangers in Bangkok
Thailand and especially Bangkok sometimes seem like a melting pot of special people from all over the world. Adventurers, sailors, businessmen, but also criminals and downcasts. They seek their happiness elsewhere. The reason is guessable.
Choose Pattaya or Hua Hin as your place of residence
If someone is planning to buy a condo, house or villa in a coastal Thai town that is fairly close to Bangkok, he is faced with the question of choosing Hua Hin or Pattaya.
The future of Swiss expatriate Urs “David” Fehr in Phuket hangs in the balance after several clashes with the local population. Accused of rude behavior and causing unrest within the community, Fehr faces the possibility that his residency visa will not be extended. The heart of the controversy? An incident at Yamu Beach and the workings of its elephant park.
Aaron, a Dutch retiree, has consciously chosen a retired life. Far from the hustle and bustle, in the middle of the tranquility of Sattahip, he surrounds himself with nature, his Thai wife and their dogs. Aaron is completely turned off by some of the Dutch in Thailand. Here, in his self-chosen isolation, he finds his peace.
Back to the Dutch coast: the story of an expat who says goodbye to his Thai dream. Peter, a 63-year-old Dutchman, talks candidly about his decision to leave Thailand, a country he once dreamed of. Faced with unbearable heat, chaotic traffic, increasing air pollution, and a changing attitude of the local population, he returns to the Netherlands.
In the land of endless sun and smiling faces, Jan, a Dutch expat in Thailand, discovers the harsh reality of life without health insurance. His adventurous life takes a dramatic turn when an accident confronts him with sky-high medical costs and a struggle for survival. This story illustrates the risks and emotional toll of living abroad as an uninsured expat.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of moving to Thailand?
Dutch and Belgians often choose a new life in Thailand, and for good reason. Many people are looking for a place where their money goes further and Thailand is perfect for that. With a low cost of living, you can live a more comfortable life. But it's not just the economy that lures them; the warm sun and tropical climate are a huge draw, especially for those tired of cold, gray days at home.
Thailand is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, but did you also know that life there is surprisingly affordable? In this analysis we explore the current cost of living in Thailand for 2023 and translate that into a statement. Do you agree or disagree? Then respond.
Expats in Pattaya are fighting for a fairer visa policy with the Thai Prime Minister
In Pattaya, expats, mainly retirees and people with a Thai partner, have joined forces to plead with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for a fairer visa policy. They feel undervalued despite their substantial contribution to the local economy and face increasing bureaucratic challenges.
Thailand is the sixth best country in the world for expats to work and live in, according to a recent survey, reflecting the confidence foreigners have in the country's potential.
The Thai public has until May 17 to express their views on whether a proposed departure tax should be introduced. Under the proposal, 1.000 baht would be levied on every Thai citizen and foreign permanent foreign resident of Thailand departing by air, and 500 baht on those departing by land or sea.