juehoe
Swiss expat in Thailand
Forum posts
62
Contacts
13
About me
Swiss, Married with children
Lives in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan
Speaks German, English, French, Thai
Registration: 26 April 2010
Thai Credit Cards by brucejomms
Hi there, can foreigners on Retirement Visa get a Thai Bank CC. I gues it would be very difficult considering you are not Thai... Thoughts, Experience..
@Leeds forever! It works as a CC within the limit. But i keep my limit low, because I don鈥檛 want that the bank blocks a lot of money. My limit is 30,000. If I want to buy something for 50,000, I transfer the remaining amount to the CC. Read More
Thai Credit Cards by brucejomms
Hi there, can foreigners on Retirement Visa get a Thai Bank CC. I gues it would be very difficult considering you are not Thai... Thoughts, Experience..
I have a credit card from Krungsri and it was easy (but more than 10 years ago).It is important to know that banks block the limit plus reserve on the account. My limit is 30,000 and the bank is blocking 40,000. That's why I chose the smallest limit ... Read More
Managing child-related expenses in Thailand by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Embarking on an expat journey to Thailand with children presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the financial considerations related to raising kids. Whether you are planning to relocate to Thailand or have already ...
Here the link to our school in Hua Hin: https://bys.ac.th/bilingual/byshuahin/index.php/en/ Read More
Managing child-related expenses in Thailand by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Embarking on an expat journey to Thailand with children presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the financial considerations related to raising kids. Whether you are planning to relocate to Thailand or have already ...
The school is BYS (Beaconhouse Yamsaard) end of Soi 94. They offer classes fromKindergarten (K) up to graduation (S6). My children are now in P6 and started in K1. I am very happy with this school. The classes are not so big as others schools in Hua ... Read More
Managing child-related expenses in Thailand by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Embarking on an expat journey to Thailand with children presents unique challenges, particularly concerning the financial considerations related to raising kids. Whether you are planning to relocate to Thailand or have already ...
@Cheryl I have 2 boys (12 years old) and we are living in Hua Hin. Most child-related expenses are cheaper than in my home country Switzerland. Many things also depend on your own requirements and life style.The biggest spending is for the school. ... Read More
Thermal printer paper by scbrock
HelloThis may seem kind of a random question but does anyoneknow if paper from a thermal printer is accepted by immigrationfor various documents and so on? The paper is different fromregular paper and they can be particular about some thingsThank you
@Leeds forever! The recycled paper was not white these days (2011). Read More
Thermal printer paper by scbrock
HelloThis may seem kind of a random question but does anyoneknow if paper from a thermal printer is accepted by immigrationfor various documents and so on? The paper is different fromregular paper and they can be particular about some thingsThank you
@Leeds forever! The local authorities can be very 芦complicated禄. As some of them accept or like double-side printed documents and others not. I alway ask in advance when I am not sure. But experience since 2011 is that they don't accept ... Read More
Thermal printer paper by scbrock
HelloThis may seem kind of a random question but does anyoneknow if paper from a thermal printer is accepted by immigrationfor various documents and so on? The paper is different fromregular paper and they can be particular about some thingsThank you
I am not sure. Some years ago I used recycled paper and it was rejected. They want white paper. Read More
90 day reporting by Friendly G34
Ok, so before my first 90 day report date, I went to siem reap, returned March 4th, which reset my 90 day report date to a fresh 90 days. I will be out of the country again, before my new 90 day check in date. My question is, once I return from ...
@Leeds forever! I don't wear a suit and tie, but long trousers, a polo shirt and closed-toe shoes. I've seen foreigners come to immigration in very short pants, sleeveless shirts and flip-flops. The officials say nothing and remain polite. But in ... Read More
90 day reporting by Friendly G34
Ok, so before my first 90 day report date, I went to siem reap, returned March 4th, which reset my 90 day report date to a fresh 90 days. I will be out of the country again, before my new 90 day check in date. My question is, once I return from ...
Of course can I do it by myself, but we have an immigration within a shopping mall and so it is not a big deal to make a visit. I also have the impression that the immigration officers appreciate it. i also wear always proper outfit (not like ... Read More
90 day reporting by Friendly G34
Ok, so before my first 90 day report date, I went to siem reap, returned March 4th, which reset my 90 day report date to a fresh 90 days. I will be out of the country again, before my new 90 day check in date. My question is, once I return from ...
@Friendly G34 I always visit the immigration after a trip and let them set the new date. Read More
Post-Covid-19 situation in Thailand by Mickael
Hello everyone, [b]The COVID-19 pandemic[/b] had a huge impact on the world, including on expats' lives. Travel restrictions, business closures, budget cuts, and health measures have created unprecedented challenges for those who have chosen to ...
@Leeds forever! Here in Hua Hin, most Thais wear a mask in places like Market Village and Bl煤port. I also still wear a mask in these locations. Most foreigners don't wear a mask. Read More
Post-Covid-19 situation in Thailand by Mickael
Hello everyone, [b]The COVID-19 pandemic[/b] had a huge impact on the world, including on expats' lives. Travel restrictions, business closures, budget cuts, and health measures have created unprecedented challenges for those who have chosen to ...
@WDO59 I also still wear a mask in public indoor spaces. After 3 years I am getting used to and I feel 芦naked禄 without a mask... Read More
Moving to Hua Hin by Sumner
Anysuggestions as to where to livein Hua Hin. We are retired. Also is Hua Hina good place to move to. Thank you for the previous suggestions from members, any other information, on Hua Hin or any other area of Thailand would be most ...
@lassie1 I am living in Hua Hin since 2011. It is a very good place with good infrastructure. My health insurance is from LUMA since many years and I have no problems. Read More
New Covid outbreak? by Guest234878
Hi everyone.. I watch Thai news a few times per week just to keep up on the western perspective. I have been watching with some excitement as the Thai government announced its latest effort to open Thailand to tourist. It appears that the Thai ...
The government plans to start vaccinations, soon. But as in mist countries, they are behind schedule. The original plan was to start in April. The Thai people can now register for a vaccination. Privat hospitals are allowed to sell shots from June ... Read More
Expat Finance for Buying New Vehicle by SiamJazzy
I thought I would start a new thread on this subject to bring it up to date. Details: Have Thai wife. Both have good UK income. Have big deposit. No Thai income at present, but may have once we've been here over 6 months. Thai guarantor, ...
I financed one of our cars by myself. But as a foreigner, it was complicated and the minimal down payment was 50%. I have also a Thai wife, which is the director of the company I am working. Now we use her salary and I transfer every month a certain ... Read More
Expatriation to Thailand: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in Thailand as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
The 芦retirement visa禄 is not a valid visa for that category. Non-Thai with that kind of visa still cannot enter Thailand. The residence permit is a special thing. Samples. Thai Permanent Residence Visa Read More
Expatriation to Thailand: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in Thailand as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
However, non-Thai nationals who are qualified in one of the categories, according to the notification of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand dated 2nd July 2020, are able to apply for a Certificate of Entry (COE) to enter the Kingdom of ... Read More
Expatriation to Thailand: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in Thailand as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
Thailand is closes for foreigners - with some exceptions (like married to a Thai national). But there is a lot going on. But the decision process and communication is in Thailand often quite chaotic. So you have to be patient. I expect a solution ... Read More
Homeschooling in Thailand by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Homeschooling your children as an expat in Thailand will definitely come with its load of challenges. Here is a special call to parents who are already homeschooling their children or who plan on doing so to share any information ...
Thank you very much for the information about the legal issue! But I don't agree, with your opinion, that home homeschooling is dramatically better than any other option in Thailand. The public schools are a mess, that is true of course. Our ... Read More
Homeschooling in Thailand by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Homeschooling your children as an expat in Thailand will definitely come with its load of challenges. Here is a special call to parents who are already homeschooling their children or who plan on doing so to share any information ...
I don't know, if home schooling is legal or not. The main question is, if your child will later go to an university in Thailand or not. Universities in Thailand only accept students which have done the Thai curriculum. Read More
Payment methods in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Once you聮re settled in Thailand, you will need to make some basic purchases, like groceries or pay bills. Hence, it is essential to know the payment methods available in your host country. Which are the most common payment ...
I am using cash, my debit and credit card for my shopping. Most bills I pay by bank transfer with the app from my bank. This works very good. Read More
Best cities for retirement in Thailand by Bhavna
Hello everyone, An increasing amount of people want to spend their retirement abroad. Would you consider giving a few tips to those looking into Thailand for their retirement? What are the most attractive cities for retirees in ...
I am living in Hua Hin since 2011 and I can highly recommend it as place for your retirement. Read More
Cheapest cities in Thailand by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Budget is an important consideration when moving to Thailand. Ideally, expats would settle down in a city in Thailand where the cost of living is low but where they could also enjoy a decent quality of life. Would you be able to ...
All smaller cities in eastern Thailand (Isaan) are quite cheap. I know Yasothon, Roi-Et etc. But the summer is hot and there are not so much attractions. Read More
Sending and receiving packages in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, As an expat, there are inevitably certain items you might want or need from back home, and around the holiday period, many people like to send gift packages. How easy is it to send and receive packages in Thailand? Is the public ...
I had never problems with EMS or KERRY. Both deliver at home. Sometimes, my Thai wife uses the parcel service of the minibus or bus services for sending food. Read More
Bank loans in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello, Finances and banking can sometimes be a headache for many expats, especially when it comes to taking out bank loans. Is it difficult for an expat to get approved for a bank loan in Thailand? What are the types of bank loans available ...
I also had to make a 50% down payment for my car. I didn't need a (Thai) guarantor because I could show enough income. We now finance the cars in the name of my Thai wife, which is far more easier. Read More
International School Recommendations by oneandyallen
Hello I'm looking for a nice International School in Bangkok for my 2 kids. Can anyone recommend a school? Has anyone had experience with Garden International School?
Our boy (6) goes to Yamsaard in Hua Hin and we are very satisfied. They also have 3 campuses in Bangkok. Read More
Newbie seeking information by Butch4424
Hi all, I am a newbie and looking for all the information I can find regarding moving to Thailand to live permanently. I am a retiree on the age pension and any information anyone feels like giving me will be much appreciated. Regards to all, Rob.
Chiang-Mai is a very nice place - but there is indeed the air pollution, the cold winters and also a high risk of natural catastrophes. Hua Hin - where I live since 2011 - is a far better place for expats than Chiang-Mai. The hot-humid climate is ... Read More
Newbie seeking information by Butch4424
Hi all, I am a newbie and looking for all the information I can find regarding moving to Thailand to live permanently. I am a retiree on the age pension and any information anyone feels like giving me will be much appreciated. Regards to all, Rob.
I got very good information from the Thai consulate in Basel, Switzerland. But I also a service which helps Expats to move to Thailand. Read More
To get a car by sangye
My big reason to join this community for now is just to find out how it is owning a car, buying a car in Thailand. Getting it fixed if its an older car ... I'ts my 2nd year and 3rd trip and I'm here long enough that I expect a car is worth ...
Took a look at you local dealer and choose a brand which is popular in Thailand (Honda, Toyota, Mazda etc.). As others already mentioned, service your car at the dealer. This may be a little bit more expensive that at a local car shop, but you ... Read More
Newbie seeking information by Butch4424
Hi all, I am a newbie and looking for all the information I can find regarding moving to Thailand to live permanently. I am a retiree on the age pension and any information anyone feels like giving me will be much appreciated. Regards to all, Rob.
Also ask the Thai embassy or consulate in your country of residence. They can provide you a lot of information. Read More
Getting a home loan by Derge
Hi there, My wife (Thai) and I are looking at buying some property in Thailand in the not too distant future to and were hoping to secure a loan rather than pulley money out of our current investments. The catch is that we are not living in ...
We bought a shophouse in the name of my Thai spouse. We financed it by 50% with GSB. This was quite complicated. We asked many banks. The bank requires many documents and securities. The total loan expenses (house, car) should't exceed 30% of ... Read More
Raising kids in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, How is raising kids in Thailand different from raising kids in your home country? What are the activities that your kids seem to enjoy the most in Thailand? Do you feel that the country is "family-friendly"? Do you ...
I think that is easier to raise kids in Thailand than in other countries. The society is very children-friendly. You just get no problems when shopping or eating in a restaurant. More complicated is the education. You have to find a good private ... Read More
Keeping in touch while living in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the best ways you've found for keeping in touch with friends and family back home while living in Thailand? How frequently do you stay in touch with loved ones? Are there local equivalents to common instant messaging ...
Skype, E-Mail, sometimes Facebook and Messenger Read More
Online shopping in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Shopping online can be far more convenient and offer greater choice than going into shops, be it grocery shopping or retail. Are there options for online shopping in Thailand? Which sites or apps do you use most frequently and ...
We are living in Hua Hin. A order from Lazada takes 2 to 3 days (with standard free shipping). Read More
Online shopping in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Shopping online can be far more convenient and offer greater choice than going into shops, be it grocery shopping or retail. Are there options for online shopping in Thailand? Which sites or apps do you use most frequently and ...
I have a very good experience with Lazada and the official Apple Thai Online Store. My spouse sometimes orders from different websites and it seems working. In these cases, who have to pay in advance to a bank account. Read More
Naturalisation and citizenship in Thailand by Bhavna
Hello everyone, What are the requirements for acquiring citizenship in Thailand? For example, length of residence, language requirements, employment etc.. What formalities are involved in the process? What is the policy on dual-citizenship ...
I am interested in the 芦residential permit禄, first. The procedure is also quite long. I already fulfil the requirements, but I will wait 1 or 2 year. The information are here: http://www.immigration.go.th I am married to a Thai national, ... Read More
AirBnB illegal in Thailand? by JWNYsg
Just noticed a sign in my condo that letting out a room for a short term period is illegal. What's the actual law about this? Just curious as I have friends who visit Thailand who may not know this and use AirBnB Appreciate any advice. Thank ...
Condos and villages may also have special internal rules and regulations, which prohibit a 芦hotel business禄, which AirBnB actually is (see comment from Straydog). Even with a hotel license, the other condo owners must agree. Read More
Which Visa should I get as a self-employed independent by Dkv_82
Hello all, After 5 visits in Thailand, I've decided to try the expat life in BKK. I'm looking to stay for a perios of 3 to 6 months minimum and I'm nt quite sure which Visa should I apply for. I'm a self-employed independent, And ...
The main problem in this case is how to work legally in Thailand - not the visa. The situation is not clear, if you only work for costumers outside of Thailand. You may be not so in focus, when working from home. But the Thai authorities have ... Read More
Which Visa should I get as a self-employed independent by Dkv_82
Hello all, After 5 visits in Thailand, I've decided to try the expat life in BKK. I'm looking to stay for a perios of 3 to 6 months minimum and I'm nt quite sure which Visa should I apply for. I'm a self-employed independent, And ...
Border run visas are a thing of the past and should be avoided. You will get in trouble soon. Read More
Moving to Hua Hin by Sumner
Anysuggestions as to where to livein Hua Hin. We are retired. Also is Hua Hina good place to move to. Thank you for the previous suggestions from members, any other information, on Hua Hin or any other area of Thailand would be most ...
Hua Hin is a very good place to live, especially with a family. I am living in Khao Tao, south of Hua Hin. We have now very good infrastructure (schools, hospitals, shopping centres, restaurants etc.). The main drawback are the big traffic jams at ... Read More
Cost of living in Thailand - 2017 by Priscilla
Hello, Before moving to Thailand, it is important to investigate the cost of living in the country. As we did in 2015, we give you the opportunity to share your experience and tell us more about products and services average recorded prices ...
Exactly! I would recommend to make a 芦test stay禄 for a least one month. I have done this 2 times. So I could collect data and see, if I find the products I need. Rental costs can be very cheap - but you may live in in a very basic ... Read More
Cost of living in Thailand - 2017 by Priscilla
Hello, Before moving to Thailand, it is important to investigate the cost of living in the country. As we did in 2015, we give you the opportunity to share your experience and tell us more about products and services average recorded prices ...
Yamsaard in Hua Hin costs THB 125,000 per year. Read More
Car driving lIcence by jeffbothwell
:) Good day folks, my name is Jeff 53 and am presently visiting family with my missus Nee 43 here in the UK. We have a nice home in the dark side of Pattaya and plan to retire full time on the 20th April 2017. Our location really means we need our ...
Make a Thai translation of your passport can help, too. Best way is to contact your local Provincial Transport Office and ask, what they need. In Hua Hin they ask for the copy of the passport (with visa), Blue/Yellow Book, medical certificate and a ... Read More
Following fashion in Thailand by Priscilla
Hi everyone, Do you follow fashion trends in Thailand? Every country and every culture has its own dress code. As far as you are concerned, have you changed the way you dress? Can one easily find fashion boutiques in Thailand? Are clothes ...
I have something to add to my first post: During my first visits, I dressed like a tourist, means short. Now, I have adapted to the Thai business style a little bit and always wear long pants in public,. In some cases I wear also closed shoes and ... Read More
Following fashion in Thailand by Priscilla
Hi everyone, Do you follow fashion trends in Thailand? Every country and every culture has its own dress code. As far as you are concerned, have you changed the way you dress? Can one easily find fashion boutiques in Thailand? Are clothes ...
There is not a special 芦Thai fashion禄. Most Thais wear the international style, influenced by Japan and South Korea. The traditional dresses are only uses for special occasions. I dress 芦traditional禄 or wear the Thai fashion ... Read More
Speaking Thai in Thailand by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Thai is essential for a successful integration in Thailand. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Thai? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language ...
I made my first trip to Thailand in 2001. I was lucky to travel with the Thai relatives of a fried of mine. So I could discover Thailand from another view than 芦normal禄 tourists. I discovered, that most Thai don't speak English. I was ... Read More
The holiday season in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Are you about to celebrate the holiday season in Thailand? In many countries and cultures, the festive season is the time for happiness and reunions/gatherings. Is it so in Thailand? How do Thais celebrate this very special time ...
They don't celebrate it the religious way, of course. Many Thais probably don't know the background of Christmas. But Thailand celebrates Christmas as a big shopping event. Read More
The holiday season in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Are you about to celebrate the holiday season in Thailand? In many countries and cultures, the festive season is the time for happiness and reunions/gatherings. Is it so in Thailand? How do Thais celebrate this very special time ...
I am married with a Thai and therefore celebrate mostly the Thai holidays. The major holidays are New Year and the Buddhist New Year (Songkhran). I don't celebrate the western holidays here. Christmas, Halloween etc. are imported holidays and ... Read More
Dealing with homesickness in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Being an expat in Thailand can turn out to be a wonderful human, social or professional adventure... with potential moments of nostalgia and homesickness along the way. What are your personal tips to prevent ...
I made some longer 芦test stays禄 before permanently moving to Thailand. So I also could figure out, which products are available in Thailand. Meanwhile, I find most things - same brand or similar products from brands - I need. There are ... Read More
Your new local habits in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Living in Thailand is a great way to immerse in a new culture and lifestyle. Have you embraced local customs since you've lived in Thailand? If so, which one(s)? Did local customs change the way you see things, appreciate ...
I am Swiss, living and working permanently in Thailand since 2011. I am married with a Thai. I had to change my habits concerning timeliness, accuracy and trust. I had to lean, that you cannot trust lawyers or accountants, that they work properly ... Read More
Black Canadian interested to live in Thailand by GuestPoster678
Hi there, I'm a Black Canadian and I'm interested to live in Thailand, to teach ESL. I am also fascinated with the digital nomad culture there. I'm aware that in some parts of the world, discrimination/racism is experienced by those ...
@Abdisiyad1 I don't think that Never done is a racist. He only wrote down his impressions and how he thinks, how Thai people thinks about 芦white禄 and 芦black禄. It is not his opinion! Read More
Black Canadian interested to live in Thailand by GuestPoster678
Hi there, I'm a Black Canadian and I'm interested to live in Thailand, to teach ESL. I am also fascinated with the digital nomad culture there. I'm aware that in some parts of the world, discrimination/racism is experienced by those ...
I also recommend to make some 芦test living禄 here - and to start learning Thai. It is true, that in Thailand, white skin is preferred. Just everybody wants to have white skin and the stores and ads are full of all these 芦whitening ... Read More
Which bank is the best one to open an Euro/Thai Baht account?
Every bank has its pros and cons. I use Krungsri and Kasikorn. You should also check, which bank is the best to reach. Perhaps you have a bank nearby, but it is only a minor branch which don't offers all services. You can only execute and ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Thailand is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Thailand? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
It is not appropriate to wear 芦less clothes禄. The (Thai) people don't want to see half-naked persons walking or driving around. The UV radiation is very high and dangerous in Thailand. So you should protect your skin. Read More
Adapting to the climate in Thailand by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Thailand is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Thailand? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
The weather was 芦hot禄 and 芦very hot禄 and humid when travelling the first time to Thailand in the year 2001. I also had to smile, when the Thais wear long sleeved shirts and jacket at temperatures around 25 掳C. Now, I am get ... Read More
Tips and advice to thrive in Thailand by Priscilla
Hi, When living in a foreign country, you have to adapt to a new environment, various cultures and different social codes. How did you manage to adjust to Thailand? How long does it take to feel at home? Would you say it is an easy ...
Learning the Thai language seems to me more important than religion. But some knowledge of the Thai Buddhism can help to adapt, too. I am married with a Thai women and I support her in her religious believes and activities. But I didn't convert ... Read More
foreigner driving in Bangkok? by M_LYN
As an expat who driving in Bangkok, How is your life on the Bangkok road? Are you okay with the different side of the road? and also Thai driving culture? Any driving experiences you could share?
I totally agree. I am not native English speaking and didn't found the appropriate expression... Read More
foreigner driving in Bangkok? by M_LYN
As an expat who driving in Bangkok, How is your life on the Bangkok road? Are you okay with the different side of the road? and also Thai driving culture? Any driving experiences you could share?
I took about two years until I was confident to drive in Bangkok. My main problem was to find the balance between 芦prudence禄 and 芦 aggressivity禄, especially when changing lanes or entering a street. The progress in car ... Read More
Health Insurance, Life Insurance, PA from Thai Company by cthierrymk
Many forums talk about health insurance for expat, but not everybody can afford this as it is expensive, many brokers ( even here ) target the expat community as it is a juicy market for them. I open this forum not to do any comparison, but more to ...
I had a health insurance from APRIL for some years but will change to ASN. APRIL provided a good service, but hey were getting expensive. ASN is far more cheaper for my situation /age. The coverage is a little bit lower than APRIL, but the cost ... Read More