It all comes down to respect . Respect the country and its laws and way of life . Dont go to another country and try to live the way you lived before because it's not on . Know the laws and study their way of life . If you dont like it then dont go . Simple
Some people have this thing inside them that makes them complain no matter what’s happening. I spent some time in Costa Rica and this woman was complaining and complaining. I can’t recall what about. I asked her why she was in the country and if it was so bad then she should probably go home where she would be more comfortable.
Happy New Year to you and your wife Fred! I've lived around Busan, South Korea for 11 years now and a lot of things you are talking about resonate with me, being a fellow American (from Minnesota). Love the video, the feel, the travel, and your awesome outlook on things! Next time I visit Chiang Mai, I hope to sit and just enjoy some fellowship with ya man!!!
Fred, a short time ago I was at the intersection in front of the Maya mall. The wait at this traffic light was 12 minutes. I am very impressed and pleased to see how everyone patiently waits.
That is a long wait, I don't make it over there that often but am familiar with that particular light. You're right, unlike some western countries there are no horns thinking as soon as the light changes either.
Fred thank you for your perspective. My wife and I plan to move to Thailand around June and I realize that there will be many things we will have to get use to. We’re coming from the Bay Area of California with perfect weather and those wonder sky high prices so I’m excited about new things or challenges to come. Your videos are like guidance from a friend already living a similar experience and I thank you for that.
You talked about your frustration in an accepting manner. I am Thai, was born and raised in Thailand, but I can relate to everything you said, except spicy food and dual pricing. Thanks for the words of wisdom and your gratitude of living in Thailand, even though it is not perfect!
@@DreamofThailand19000 , I've learned through time if you can't overcome your frustrations they engulf your soul. As a police officer I've seen so many people let their frustrations control their emotions and they ended up losing their freedom and sometimes their lives. That's how I've learned to let go of those things I can't control.
Fred, about that rose colored glasses thing, don't let it bother you. Everyone - especially vloggers - tend to portray Thailand as "almost paradise" without flaws...especially during their first year or so. Don't take it personally. Long time expats are just trying to remind you to keep it real. Your perspective and entheusiasm is appreciated. And, it's good to know a little bit about a person's background.
American in general or collective west in particular, no matter where we are or how much had and lucky enough to had such purchasing power through our mighty dollar would still complains about little things and of all places, in forigen countries. Our culture had no respected for elderly nor for authorities and yet, demanded our asssss off in forigen land
It might be an idea to stop encouraging them to come over ! This particular video from Fred is perhaps a step in the right direction 😊.That is the biggest problem here. It's not that big a city and the local culture is being diluted and coarsened by the massive influx of foreigners in the past few years. Nobody seems to want to go back home !
Well said. As a younger person, we always helped out on our friends farm and did not live an extravagant life. Cutting firewood to make sure we had enough to get us through the winter. Even as an adult, the most fancy thing I do is travel.
Thank you for the video. My wife and I are planning a "planning" trip to Thailand next year; Koh Chang, Chiang Mai, Hua HIn. We are so fortunate to be able to maybe move over there somewhere and I know there are Americans that "embarass" the rest of us. I dislike that. I look at things differently. there are no problems in life. There are only situations and some are better than others. I try to remember to pick my attitude when I wake up each day because I have that choice. I'd always rather try and fail than to fail to try. It's all about adaptation and flexibility and what you do with the opportunities given to you, no matter how great or small they may be. Take care......
Thanks for the words of wisdom Mr Far Away Fred…After my first trip to Thailand in 2005 and my mouth was scorched from the hot peppers, I began training my tongue by adding cayenne pepper to all my food every day and I eat at an authentic Thai Restaurant in my town weekly and order my food “Thai Hot.” Can’t wait to return to my favorite international city. Maybe I can take you to dinner.
Good points you made. I cannot understand why the people that moan and winge constantly dont just go back to their own country. I am from the uk and get frustrated when " farangs" don't bother to adjust to the ways and laws of this land,and especially learn the language. The westerners seem to think everyone in the world should speak English. I wish you and Dana a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Love all the content 🎉🎉
@@DaisyD163 , I understand, I actually feel guilty for not speaking their language. It is a blessing to be in a place where I can afford to live and increase my quality of life. Merry Christmas!!!
When I come in to the city the first traffic light I hit on the 105 going to Mae Jo takes 7 minutes in the evening. You roast and inhale smoke just stuck there. It's such a slap in the face after being in the mountains.
I think for a lot of us the first year in Thailand can be a bit like the 'honeymoon period', when everything is still exciting and new. With life being so different here than back in the West (my case Australia) the novelty of life here can last a bit longer than usual. So I guess in my case I was wearing rose coloured glasses for a while. Anyway, regarding your seven points, I can relate to the spicy food syndrome! Having been here 20 years I think my Thai is proficient, but I still have trouble getting the communication through to keep the spice down. And yes, table service with food being served to your partner and you at different times can be annoying. Anyway, thank you for giving a temperature quote in Celsius for those of us from the southern hemisphere. And wow, that Palms Restaurant looks like a nice place to visit in the arvo (that's 'afternoon' in high English Australian).
@@robertmcgregor8144 , I always appreciate your perspective Robert. You are right in regards to the honeymoon phase for many. I think there are those that once the honeymoon is over they feel trapped.
It's happened to me several times I asked for non spicy food. Made sure they understood and later received food full of red chillies. Once I clearly told no beef. And they made me eat beef by mistake! What do u do?
@@YuperSoutuber , I think we get so used to things not being lost in translation, and they will be over here. English is one of the hardest languages to learn. I just go with the flow, choose a different restaurant and move on. Know that there is no malice in what they do.
Another thing I will add is that Thais will park anywhere. They will double park and block traffic instead of moving 20 meters up to an open space to let traffic flow. If you cant accept the way they drive and park, it can drive a person insane. You either adapt or you don’t drive. So now I run red lights on the regular, no big deal.
I don't see the point in stressing out about dual pricing, to be honest. The GDP per capita in Thailand is about 1/10 that of the US. When I see farang prices that are 5x or 10x that Thai price, I still see that as a relatively good deal. I am completely ok with subsidizing (assuming even farang entry fees actually cover operational costs...I don't know) national parks and such so the country can afford to let its own people in nearly for free. Dual pricing in a private context is annoying, but you can fight those battles if you want to do so. The same thing also happens in the US when dealing with trades and craftspeople, for example. So it's not like people charging some folks one price and others a different price is unique to Thailand.
Say it ain't so.... trouble in Paradise? I'm not saying you're one of these but many of these RUclipsrs in Thailand would like you to think you're living in heaven, which of course is nonsense. Every place has its pluses and minuses. Thailand is no different.
lol, did you pronounce tortillas with the L sound? lol, these are problems I'm ok with. Things that bother me: its Hot and Humid Climate, Air Pollution, Corruption and Bureaucratic Challenges, I understand the Dual Pricing, but its inconsistent because Asians from other countries do pass, Stray Animals, Sewage Smells, Overuse of Plastic, and how my presence affects the prices for the locals.
My biggest problem this time of year is burning. Yesterday my neighbor burned all the leafs on an empty forest plot and totally smoked me out which then stunk like smoldering ashes all night. These people live in smoke their entire life so it doesn't seem to bother them but for me the anger is real.
Understood, I see it popping up already in our village. What I do know is the expats here are working with the local government to find solutions, fingers crossed.
@@davidlamb7524, I can't imagine that happening with the amount of people already heading to the hospitals. Speaking to local authorities here it's not likely. However what other countries do are out out of our control. It should also be noted it would be counter productive to allow it and take away the tourism dollars
@@farawayfred802That was a Thai government statement reported in Bangkok Post. I admit the tourist income is important. It would be great if more ordinary Thais could benefit from it however. Low wages, commission only, tips only, no health and safety, no guarantee of work, and no rights are the widespread experience of so many Thais. Plus it isn't just nice guys who come here and spend money. There are predators too. Delaying or even not paying staff is more common than you might realise. A lot of these predators , possibly most are foreigners. I know personally of a few cases. Four I can think of the bosses were 1 Chinese 1 American 1 German 1 Bangkok Thai. All withheld wages. One server I know was bitten in the hand by a rat at work and the boss laid him off without pay. He had no money for treatment, but a friend helped him. He hasn't received any back pay.
Far away Fred always produces balanced, researched, thoughtful vlogs
Thank you so much Mary❤️
Thank you for these tips...especially not sending food back.
Your logic and voice are very comforting. ❤
Like that singer Barry White!
It all comes down to respect . Respect the country and its laws and way of life . Dont go to another country and try to live the way you lived before because it's not on . Know the laws and study their way of life . If you dont like it then dont go . Simple
@@ianknight8131 I’m looking to represent America in a good way, same as I treated them when they are a guest here
Some people have this thing inside them that makes them complain no matter what’s happening. I spent some time in Costa Rica and this woman was complaining and complaining. I can’t recall what about. I asked her why she was in the country and if it was so bad then she should probably go home where she would be more comfortable.
Happy New Year to you and your wife Fred! I've lived around Busan, South Korea for 11 years now and a lot of things you are talking about resonate with me, being a fellow American (from Minnesota). Love the video, the feel, the travel, and your awesome outlook on things! Next time I visit Chiang Mai, I hope to sit and just enjoy some fellowship with ya man!!!
Thanks, I appreciate it and happy new year to you as well! Please look me up when you get here, I would love to break bread with you.
Well said. I talky try not to take anything for granted.
Fred, a short time ago I was at the intersection in front of the Maya mall. The wait at this traffic light was 12 minutes. I am very impressed and pleased to see how everyone patiently waits.
That is a long wait, I don't make it over there that often but am familiar with that particular light. You're right, unlike some western countries there are no horns thinking as soon as the light changes either.
Fred thank you for your perspective. My wife and I plan to move to Thailand around June and I realize that there will be many things we will have to get use to. We’re coming from the Bay Area of California with perfect weather and those wonder sky high prices so I’m excited about new things or challenges to come. Your videos are like guidance from a friend already living a similar experience and I thank you for that.
@@DavidGomez-d1j ,
Thank you, and good luck with your move ♥️.
You talked about your frustration in an accepting manner. I am Thai, was born and raised in Thailand, but I can relate to everything you said, except spicy food and dual pricing. Thanks for the words of wisdom and your gratitude of living in Thailand, even though it is not perfect!
@@DreamofThailand19000 ,
I've learned through time if you can't overcome your frustrations they engulf your soul. As a police officer I've seen so many people let their frustrations control their emotions and they ended up losing their freedom and sometimes their lives. That's how I've learned to let go of those things I can't control.
@farawayfred802 👍👍👍
Fred, about that rose colored glasses thing, don't let it bother you. Everyone - especially vloggers - tend to portray Thailand as "almost paradise" without flaws...especially during their first year or so. Don't take it personally. Long time expats are just trying to remind you to keep it real. Your perspective and entheusiasm is appreciated. And, it's good to know a little bit about a person's background.
Thanks for the perspective, and kind words, I appreciate it!
American in general or collective west in particular, no matter where we are or how much had and lucky enough to had such purchasing power through our mighty dollar would still complains about little things and of all places, in forigen countries. Our culture had no respected for elderly nor for authorities and yet, demanded our asssss off in forigen land
It might be an idea to stop encouraging them to come over ! This particular video from Fred is perhaps a step in the right direction 😊.That is the biggest problem here. It's not that big a city and the local culture is being diluted and coarsened by the massive influx of foreigners in the past few years. Nobody seems to want to go back home !
Well said. As a younger person, we always helped out on our friends farm and did not live an extravagant life. Cutting firewood to make sure we had enough to get us through the winter. Even as an adult, the most fancy thing I do is travel.
I'm with you. I would add that traveling is also the best thing I could have done for myself.
Buying an electric shaving machine is one of the best decisions I've ever made
@@p.c.h.6721 wifey got me one last Christmas, they’ve come a long way
Thank you for the video. My wife and I are planning a "planning" trip to Thailand next year; Koh Chang, Chiang Mai, Hua HIn. We are so fortunate to be able to maybe move over there somewhere and I know there are Americans that "embarass" the rest of us. I dislike that. I look at things differently. there are no problems in life. There are only situations and some are better than others. I try to remember to pick my attitude when I wake up each day because I have that choice. I'd always rather try and fail than to fail to try. It's all about adaptation and flexibility and what you do with the opportunities given to you, no matter how great or small they may be. Take care......
Great video Fred. I’m Grateful to be living in Asia
Thank you!
Excellent video!
Thanks for the words of wisdom Mr Far Away Fred…After my first trip to Thailand in 2005 and my mouth was scorched from the hot peppers, I began training my tongue by adding cayenne pepper to all my food every day and I eat at an authentic Thai Restaurant in my town weekly and order my food “Thai Hot.” Can’t wait to return to my favorite international city. Maybe I can take you to dinner.
@@WilliamFluery ,
Please look me up when you get here, I would love to meet you.
Hi Fred, that no booze sales does not extend to mom and pop stores. They will sell you anything anytime no matter the holiday.
@@Joseph-ko5wv ,
Thanks, Ive noticed that as well, lol.I think they are thinking about changing that law.
Good points you made.
I cannot understand why the people that moan and winge constantly dont just go back to their own country.
I am from the uk and get frustrated when " farangs" don't bother to adjust to the ways and laws of this land,and especially learn the language.
The westerners seem to think everyone in the world should speak English.
I wish you and Dana a merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Love all the content 🎉🎉
@@DaisyD163 ,
I understand, I actually feel guilty for not speaking their language. It is a blessing to be in a place where I can afford to live and increase my quality of life.
Merry Christmas!!!
When I come in to the city the first traffic light I hit on the 105 going to Mae Jo takes 7 minutes in the evening. You roast and inhale smoke just stuck there. It's such a slap in the face after being in the mountains.
I can only imagine!, that's a long wait!! 😯, and lots of patience.
Great shoutout to Detroits own Dr Wayne Dyer. Looking forward to my retirement in Chaing Mai next month. Wayne is helping me along the way.
@@danielmcgrath564 ,
What an amazing man, he was a beacon for me as well.
Didn’t he live on Maui? But I never knew he was from Detroit. A truly lovely person
I think for a lot of us the first year in Thailand can be a bit like the 'honeymoon period', when everything is still exciting and new. With life being so different here than back in the West (my case Australia) the novelty of life here can last a bit longer than usual. So I guess in my case I was wearing rose coloured glasses for a while. Anyway, regarding your seven points, I can relate to the spicy food syndrome! Having been here 20 years I think my Thai is proficient, but I still have trouble getting the communication through to keep the spice down. And yes, table service with food being served to your partner and you at different times can be annoying. Anyway, thank you for giving a temperature quote in Celsius for those of us from the southern hemisphere. And wow, that Palms Restaurant looks like a nice place to visit in the arvo (that's 'afternoon' in high English Australian).
@@robertmcgregor8144 ,
I always appreciate your perspective Robert. You are right in regards to the honeymoon phase for many. I think there are those that once the honeymoon is over they feel trapped.
I bought a fogless shower mirror so I could shave with hot water. I couldn't take it anymore. Took me 6 years to finally break. Haha
Ha! Six years was a nice run, you gave it a chance😎
It's happened to me several times I asked for non spicy food. Made sure they understood and later received food full of red chillies. Once I clearly told no beef. And they made me eat beef by mistake!
What do u do?
@@YuperSoutuber ,
I think we get so used to things not being lost in translation, and they will be over here. English is one of the hardest languages to learn.
I just go with the flow, choose a different restaurant and move on. Know that there is no malice in what they do.
@@farawayfred802What if the new restaurant gets it wrong? Just keep moving? You may need to travel a lot 😂
Another thing I will add is that Thais will park anywhere. They will double park and block traffic instead of moving 20 meters up to an open space to let traffic flow. If you cant accept the way they drive and park, it can drive a person insane. You either adapt or you don’t drive. So now I run red lights on the regular, no big deal.
My wife and I were just discussing it. The whole lane on a highway taken over by parked cars😂
I don't see the point in stressing out about dual pricing, to be honest. The GDP per capita in Thailand is about 1/10 that of the US. When I see farang prices that are 5x or 10x that Thai price, I still see that as a relatively good deal. I am completely ok with subsidizing (assuming even farang entry fees actually cover operational costs...I don't know) national parks and such so the country can afford to let its own people in nearly for free. Dual pricing in a private context is annoying, but you can fight those battles if you want to do so. The same thing also happens in the US when dealing with trades and craftspeople, for example. So it's not like people charging some folks one price and others a different price is unique to Thailand.
That’s a great point about the context of the prices! I find that the cultural exchange and the way I’m welcomed here is worth it.
Say it ain't so.... trouble in Paradise? I'm not saying you're one of these but many of these RUclipsrs in Thailand would like you to think you're living in heaven, which of course is nonsense. Every place has its pluses and minuses. Thailand is no different.
@@mancello ,
You're absolutely right, it really boils down to attitude and tolerance level.
lol, did you pronounce tortillas with the L sound? lol, these are problems I'm ok with. Things that bother me: its Hot and Humid Climate, Air Pollution, Corruption and Bureaucratic Challenges, I understand the Dual Pricing, but its inconsistent because Asians from other countries do pass, Stray Animals, Sewage Smells, Overuse of Plastic, and how my presence affects the prices for the locals.
My biggest problem this time of year is burning. Yesterday my neighbor burned all the leafs on an empty forest plot and totally smoked me out which then stunk like smoldering ashes all night. These people live in smoke their entire life so it doesn't seem to bother them but for me the anger is real.
That's a great point! I've noticed that the burning has started earlier. It's scary with some of the winds we've had here.
They have said the burning season will be extended to 6 months this year 😮
Understood, I see it popping up already in our village. What I do know is the expats here are working with the local government to find solutions, fingers crossed.
@@davidlamb7524,
I can't imagine that happening with the amount of people already heading to the hospitals. Speaking to local authorities here it's not likely. However what other countries do are out out of our control.
It should also be noted it would be counter productive to allow it and take away the tourism dollars
@@farawayfred802That was a Thai government statement reported in Bangkok Post.
I admit the tourist income is important.
It would be great if more ordinary Thais could benefit from it however. Low wages, commission only, tips only, no health and safety, no guarantee of work, and no rights are the widespread experience of so many Thais.
Plus it isn't just nice guys who come here and spend money. There are predators too.
Delaying or even not paying staff is more common than you might realise.
A lot of these predators , possibly most are foreigners. I know personally of a few cases. Four I can think of the bosses were 1 Chinese 1 American 1 German 1 Bangkok Thai. All withheld wages. One server I know was bitten in the hand by a rat at work and the boss laid him off without pay. He had no money for treatment, but a friend helped him. He hasn't received any back pay.