The HUGE MISTAKES I made doing business in PHUKET Thailand

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  • Опубликовано: 6 апр 2022
  • Setting up and running a business as a foreigner in Thailand is no easy task. I interview a fellow Irishman and content creator, The Thairish Sun about the huge mistakes he made doing business in Phuket, Thailand.
    The Thairish Sun by his own admission made a number of mistakes which ultimately led to the failure of his business and in this interview he shares them with us. If you're considering moving to Thailand and setting up a business there are some valuable lessons to be learned from our interview. #phuket #thairishtimes #howtodobusinessinthailand
    Subscribe to The Thairish Sun's Channel: / @thethairishsun
    Subscribe to our channel: / thairishtimes
    Support our channel: www.buymeacoffee.com/thairish

Комментарии • 559

  • @ThairishTimes
    @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +6

    If you liked that interview then check this one out. It’s about how a British entrepreneur made a fortune in Thailand & Laos ruclips.net/video/wJSZLCFAqsk/видео.html

    • @bobg1069
      @bobg1069 2 года назад +1

      So one in how many thousands?

    • @gregoryian123
      @gregoryian123 2 года назад +1

      In all my years in Thailand this story is not unique. Without talking too much my buddies back in the 80s and 90s I how can I say this politely. I made a living from a thai. I traveled there many times for free all expenses covered. We bought a house for 20000 ca$ 400000 baht . I put in $3000 ca she 17000 . When we sold it for 380000 baht 2 years later . I received half. But we had a problem I do not want to go into but the police wanted 200000 . I told my wife tell them we only have 160000. They took it but we still made profits. . Wife wasn't happy but i convinced her. Remember how much you are making in my country. What do you want jail or pay and move on . We moved on . This went on for 6 year til we parted. She still lives in my country. I now have a wonderful Filipina wife and happy 27 years later. Everybody is happy. I only giving a snippet of my years there. My crazy life. When I was in my 20s and 30s. . I moved on and have found memories.

  • @roydye4450
    @roydye4450 2 года назад +22

    The problem comes at 22:08 when he said "the boss" is asking you to do something, he thought he was her boss, but as the 51% owner she didn't see it that way .

    • @hdj81Vlimited
      @hdj81Vlimited 2 года назад +3

      i would only do business in thailand if the thai person give in the 51% cash. if she was not putting 51% cash in , she is not the boss.

    • @user-vs8yj8oy2v
      @user-vs8yj8oy2v 5 месяцев назад +2

      He's a top lad,I couldn't help to lol when he was dismayed the girl went home after he told her to go home

  • @willsmith39
    @willsmith39 2 года назад +79

    This one was the best yet. This guy was brutally honest, even at his own expense, which I really respect. And he's s great story teller I could have happily listened to several episodes of this. He may not have the best business brain I don't know but certainly got a gift as an orator.

  • @rodgerryan4258
    @rodgerryan4258 2 года назад +25

    I worked for a Thai facade company for 5 years and I was thinking of setting up a business there,Soon as I heard you need a local Thai and they must own 51% of the company without laying out a penny ,that was it for me

    • @ShayneMicchia
      @ShayneMicchia 2 года назад +7

      It's not as bad as it seems. Companies must be technically structured as 51% but this is done with their shareholders tificate signed but not dated so you have ownership. The key here is to make sure there are multiple Thais that make up the 51% and that they do not know each other. Lawyers handle this and usually these nominee shareholders recieve a small fee. This is how every foreigner owns land and businesses here and it's seems to work pretty well.

    • @bensantos3882
      @bensantos3882 2 года назад

      Racist Asians, could you imagine if Western countries did this to Thai people when they come here to do business? They even have signs on their UNESCO world heritage sites where it says Thai people admission 5 Batt or whatever and foreigners 30 Batt.

    • @bensantos3882
      @bensantos3882 2 года назад +5

      I should clarify this is even the case for foreigners who are even naturalized Thai citizens too. So if you look non Thai you still get charged more. Absolute racism.

    • @davidb2206
      @davidb2206 4 месяца назад

      Smart move. Their xeno attitude and Thai "laws" is a loser deal, 100%. You are better off in South America, where you can own your own property. Reciprocity in civil and property rights. Fair is fair. "Asia is OVER."

  • @novak4594
    @novak4594 2 года назад +7

    This guy has a lot of humility to share his story. He hit the nail on the head with come to Thailand to spend money and not make it. Great interview. This guy has the attitude to survive anywhere. Much respect to him.

  • @johnwright9372
    @johnwright9372 2 года назад +39

    Similar problems in Philippines, lazy, unthinking, not a scrap of initiative and officials constantly trying to extort money. Simple answer: DONT DO IT.

    • @richardfox2865
      @richardfox2865 5 месяцев назад +2

      Agree. Earn all your money first... then enjoy the Philippines. Don't even think about a business... well unless you want to lose all your money 😊.

    • @davidb2206
      @davidb2206 4 месяца назад

      @@richardfox2865 So they are not an "ally." Why are they still getting free "aid" and defense support from the West? Reciprocal, fair, two-way treatment for expats is what a real "ally" would do.

  • @thethairishsun
    @thethairishsun 2 года назад +47

    Cheers for having me on, mate! Now that we've covered my biggest blunder, we'll have to talk about something more positive if we ever do it again 😂

    • @NickyDunn
      @NickyDunn 2 года назад +5

      Hiya Mate, Yes, looking forward to watching this. Watching now

    • @thaireetired75
      @thaireetired75 2 года назад +6

      Mate I feel the same as you here in Scotland, just binned my job I wasn't happy in n negotiating in my mind to come out to retire in isaan with my thai wife...yes it's gelously poeple are btw..I admired your honest story..bang on..👍

    • @M0NEYBALLS
      @M0NEYBALLS 2 года назад +2

      Very interesting and funny. Subbed thanks for the interview 👌

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +7

      It was a pleasure mate, we live and learn. It takes a brave person to talk about their mistakes on camera. Fair play to you

    • @thethairishsun
      @thethairishsun 2 года назад +3

      @@thaireetired75 you should follow your heart mate. It's a great country and isaan is very different to Phuket! Best of luck with it all 🙂

  • @nathanv23
    @nathanv23 2 года назад +19

    Business in Thailand is best left to Thais and foreign billionaires. The stories of failed foreign owned businesses in Thailand are endless and IMHO half the time the problem is the country and culture itself.

    • @b4bmm
      @b4bmm 2 года назад +4

      I hear this all the time yet there are many businesses here on Koh Chang foreign owned. The common theme seems to be they all have Thai wives. Maybe this is the secret to it, a shrewd wife who you can trust that will deal with the staff and locals. I don’t think Thais like to be told what to do by a farang

    • @redpilldenmark5741
      @redpilldenmark5741 2 года назад +4

      It´s easy to create a small fortune in Thailand if you start with a big one

    • @nathanv23
      @nathanv23 2 года назад +3

      @@b4bmm just because things appear to be working out now doesn’t mean they are or that problems won’t arise. Of course it can be done, but the more successful you become the more dangerous the situation.

    • @b4bmm
      @b4bmm 2 года назад

      @@nathanv23 These businesses have been on the go for 10 years including getting through the last two years, I think its safe to say they know the secret sauce. They aren't making a fortune from what I can tell, at least not nowadays but I dont think that's the main goal for most of these people.

    • @limirl
      @limirl 2 года назад

      @@b4bmm I've heard this also, Thai's get really the huff when being told what to do by a farang. They keep it inside for ages with resentment growing each day until it bursts

  • @senianns9522
    @senianns9522 2 года назад +5

    I left Phuket ( greed island) in 95. I was working in Bangkok and I went back for a visit after 6 or so years. So glad I left! The place has gone crazy! No more visits again!

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Everybody is hustling in Phuket

    • @senianns9522
      @senianns9522 2 года назад +3

      @@ThairishTimes When I was fist there in 82 the attitude was 'look after the foreign visitors well as that is our future'! Not a bad way of thinking! Fast forward to late 90's --'It's open season on Farangs! Starts at the airport and doesn't let up!

    • @justinw2232
      @justinw2232 2 года назад

      C#nt of a place

  • @1lollmaolol1
    @1lollmaolol1 2 года назад +9

    If you have an engineering degree, you don't do a doctors job.
    Point is, people should use their skills to their advantage.
    A foreigner who knows nothing about local market, should not compete with locals. They'll beat him any day.
    Restaurant business is tough even for locals. a foreigner running it, without some local support, is disaster waiting to happen.

    • @myquestionaskingaccount3252
      @myquestionaskingaccount3252 2 года назад

      Not necessarily true. A lot of locals in these countries have no idea how to cater to foreigners and cant even comprehend the most basic things that need to be done. As a foreigner you have the upper hand because even little things like washing your hands before handling food is normal to you but not for them

  • @roybaht
    @roybaht 2 года назад +14

    Great to see the two "Thairish" dailies finally meet !!! 😂 😂 😂 This is definitely the kind of thing anyone thinking of starting a business here should watch before coming !!! 👍 👍 👍

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Cheers Roy, us Thairish boys had to meet sometime

  • @thaitalkwithdan
    @thaitalkwithdan 2 года назад +11

    Great interview, great story, it's nice to finally hear someone be honest on RUclips about Thailand as it's very rare nowadays, I know loads of stories much worse than this but it's great to hear someone tell the truth! And openly speak about it on RUclips, the corruption and the scams in Thailand especially Phuket are more common than fish and chips in England 😬 kudos to this guy and kudos to you also to interview him and post this kind of content on RUclips it's a much needed breath of fresh air to hear some honesty from a foreigner in Thailand about his experiences ✅✅✅ I've spent 6 years in Thailand could write a book about the stuff I have experienced and heard 😱

  • @MrLetmein2011
    @MrLetmein2011 2 года назад +25

    I was going to Thailand on and off since 2001 , in 2013 I went to Phuket …. what a dump! I really didn't feel welcome , scamming taxi drivers endless massage offers . Would never go back , didn't feel safe either . I love honest people and this guy is totally honest .

    • @david-reason
      @david-reason 2 года назад +3

      I also went with my Chinese girlfriend in 2013 to Phuket. It is OVER COMMERCIALIZED, though we loved the sea and island adventures. We had half our holiday in Bangkok. By 2015 I'd left China and moved here.

    • @gregoryian123
      @gregoryian123 2 года назад +6

      Back in 1989 I remember saying to my Chiang Mai wife . One day this beautiful country will change. And I think that time has arrived. Everybody wants to go live the dream. Or do short term plans if you know what I mean. It still has its charm but its not what it used to be. I think thai hospitality is slowly wearing off.

    • @SEdwards1000
      @SEdwards1000 2 года назад +4

      Go to the north of Thailand. It's not overrun with foreigners. The locals are really loving.

    • @patrik4067
      @patrik4067 Год назад

      I agree but they've a 'different' relationship with royalty and so on.
      Thailand is basically tribal.

    • @Ned88Man
      @Ned88Man Год назад

      @@SEdwards1000 better. yet, go to Isan. It's really hard to have an authentic experience in places like Samui and Phuket.

  • @mobpsy1526
    @mobpsy1526 2 года назад +5

    Genuine and admitting his own mistakes, wish Thairish Sun all the best

  • @Jon-qp9ew
    @Jon-qp9ew 2 года назад +11

    This interview shows why it's important to know the culture and language if doing business and a foreign country. Knowing Thailand, I understand the mistakes he made.

  • @mjay6508
    @mjay6508 Год назад +5

    Aussie in Chiang Mai here mate...... well done T Sun, I really appreciate your honesty and totally understand your experiences..... definitely gives one plenty to think about re business in Thailand.... I’ve been teaching here in CM for the past few years, at a very prominent kindy to Yr12 school (long time academic, 25 yrs in total, in Oz, South Korea, Middle East University’s as Assistant Director and 2yrs in CM).... here I would see things academically AND morally, all made with ad hoc decisions, so would proffer obvious instantaneous solutions, that were ALWAYS REJECTED by the ‘management’ team, for one simple reason; the solutions were coming from me. They will NOT ACCEPT a falung coming up with solutions that they would never even think of. A month or so would pass and BINGO, they would introduce what I had recommended previously, all dressed up in their Thai version of aforesaid recommendations, yet still not being able to actually deliver the recommendations or work toward positive outcomes, because they have no idea what comes next. It’s that whole cultural issue of shame and incompetence rolled into one. One long term falung reckons it’s because they have never been invaded or controlled by other countries. Historically, it has always been THAI WAY or the HIGHWAY... I would try to get the ‘management’ team to see the reasoning for trying this or doing that, but I always felt it was like a, ‘yeah yeah falung, don’t tell us what to do in our own country’ sort of vibe. In my HO, as long as that “vibe” exists, Thailand will always remain behind the eight ball in business and education. Oh, and the Thai education system, is all about how much money can they fleece from the parents for fees, books, uniforms, sundries et al, whilst ‘delivering’ sub standard learning opportunities for the students, which is code for a well thought out curriculum.. Just my two bobs worth.... THANK YOU heaps for your honesty mate and wish you well....... cheers to Mr Thairish Times for another solid interview...... great work lads, 🍺🍻🍺.........

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  Год назад +1

      Thanks mate. I enjoyed reading this. All the best

    • @gerritroe5
      @gerritroe5 11 месяцев назад +1

      Ha ha. It's the same in China regarding the schools. They have no clue what to do and then a foreigner tells them and they ignore it.

    • @davidb2206
      @davidb2206 4 месяца назад

      So, what you are saying and confirming is that they are 'WAYCISS.' And xeno, in the extreme. The whole world should know this.

  • @yuma420
    @yuma420 2 года назад +22

    I hear you, brother. Not just Thailand where this kind of thing happens. Pretty much in every developing country you'll experience this. Friends who have tried to set up businesses in South America all have similar stories. Live and learn.

    • @PB22559
      @PB22559 2 года назад +5

      I've spent the last two decades in Central and South America and have never heard anything as bad as this. Your foreign boss isn't allowed to give you any orders or instructions when you're his employee? That's absolutely ridiculous.

  • @limirl
    @limirl 2 года назад +5

    I've heard the same stories many times about Thai service staff unwilling to do anything beyond lifting a finger to help.

  • @guitaro5000
    @guitaro5000 2 года назад +1

    That preview was amazing. I'm ready to watch the whole video now.

  • @DonBigMango
    @DonBigMango 2 года назад +10

    Another great interview Pete. Fair play to his honesty about life and business here. So many crash and burn here, hopefully he will bounce back.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +2

      Cheers Don, I reckon he’ll be alright. He has a fighting spirit

  • @keef6586
    @keef6586 2 года назад +13

    Another interesting interview……..not that you had to say much Pete, as he clearly had a lot to get off his chest. Love the guys straight talking and honesty. Some real lessons learned there about doing your research before starting a business, particularly in Thailand. Nice to see him still on Samaui. Let’s hope he manages to find ways of earning enough to stay.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      That’s it mate, I knew he had the story all laid out and interrupting him would ruin the flow

  • @williamhartz8707
    @williamhartz8707 2 года назад +16

    So true about opening a business- especially in Thailand where your Thai staff has no idea of what good customer service is ( training is important if they can handle criticism or advice); most have been conditioned in being told what to do - not take charge of things ( due to their education system that does not encourage independent thinking or collaboration); and if the staff is paid minimum wage, it’s easy for them to leave and go elsewhere.
    All the restaurants and bars “owned” by foreigners I know that are successful, the farang owner has to be there every day. No time to golf, no beach, not much time to relax.

    • @jimshelley8831
      @jimshelley8831 2 года назад

      Often Thai staff don't need references , so can decide to move on if they don't like things.

  • @yanifree114
    @yanifree114 2 года назад +3

    It's quite refreshing and more and more uncommon to learn of nations that put the citizens first.

  • @SurfingTheMentawais
    @SurfingTheMentawais 2 года назад +8

    "Hindsight is 20/20 and you can see the mistakes....." Yeah!! This guy's business was 1 big mistake. No money, no experience, no market research, no business plan, no language skills, no cultural understanding, no network of friends/associates.
    The most successful westerners in SE Asia are the ones who come with experience, financing and a well thought out business plan.

    • @stuartburns8657
      @stuartburns8657 2 года назад +1

      Yeah, he's the poster child for "fail to plan, plan to fail"

  • @Everydaypartoflife
    @Everydaypartoflife 2 года назад +6

    Wow Pete , another awesome interview. Loving all your videos mate. And wow, what a story The Thairish Sun had to tell. Such a humble guy. I truly hope he has a bit of luck comes his way, sounds like he certainly deserves it. Like him, i like to see people do well. Cheers Pete

  • @ianbaptiste6388
    @ianbaptiste6388 2 года назад +2

    I hope in the end everything work out for that guy who truly is a legend

  • @HS-nk1vw
    @HS-nk1vw 2 года назад +6

    I like the practical realities and truths shared. Thanks much

  • @jamesbarclay8430
    @jamesbarclay8430 2 года назад +21

    The guy shows how hard it is to do business in Thailand.

    • @HairyPixels
      @HairyPixels 2 года назад +1

      Thailand largely doesn't want foreign owned business so they put up these ridiculous hurdles.

    • @haKe110
      @haKe110 Месяц назад

      nah man, hes just a idiot lol

  • @joetighe7161
    @joetighe7161 2 года назад +7

    Brilliant what a story, He's still there really glad to hear that, Never knock the guy for changing his life for the better, but what a struggle, honest with it to, best of luck to him, great interview loved it 🏖️😎🍻

  • @Deplorable_Me_UK
    @Deplorable_Me_UK 2 года назад +4

    I can relate so much to that last bit. I spent Four years travelling and when I came back to Yorkshire no one wants to know about it. Not even family ask any questions.

    • @Deplorable_Me_UK
      @Deplorable_Me_UK 2 года назад +1

      @@V8VORLICH yes, very true.

    • @fredsting6737
      @fredsting6737 5 месяцев назад

      Yes, it would be a distraction to their mundane lives

  • @sunchildtine
    @sunchildtine 2 года назад +4

    amazing scoop, Pete. wonderful chat. Irish people really tell interesting stories. i could sit here for 2 hours and listen to you lads - as if i was at the pub kind of eavesdropping....

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Cheers mate, we love a good story in Ireland

  • @stephenhume6936
    @stephenhume6936 2 года назад +4

    Done the same in 1997 Got out in 2000 by the skin of my teeth moved to sakon Nakon and still here in 2022.

    • @russell3038
      @russell3038 10 месяцев назад

      Running a business there?

  • @nickschalin6594
    @nickschalin6594 2 года назад +3

    I had a similar experience running a restaurant in Ibiza. Suddenly all the hotels went all inclusive and that was it.

  • @bobg1069
    @bobg1069 2 года назад +7

    you have done a great service with this video, well done. Farangs beware. If you want to start a business here, just don't. Maybe the people telling you negative things are just telling you the truth. People telling you to just go for it, who are not investing their own money , are really the people to avoid.

    • @ctb1977
      @ctb1977 5 месяцев назад

      Depends on the business. Cafes and Restaurants are notoriously a tough business without all the added farang restrictions.
      I'm in the process of building my own b2b app on a subscription model. Here I can be in Thailand with Thai customers, but not set up a Thai company as I can claim it's an online business. Technically illegal, but it's grey enough to get away with

    • @bobg1069
      @bobg1069 5 месяцев назад

      You're right, its illegal. I said in my post to avoid advice given by other people about businesses here. You are giving advice and its illegal. Rather proves my point. Who would take advice from someone who is acting against the law here? @@ctb1977

  • @masterofthecranium
    @masterofthecranium 2 года назад +6

    Whey! go on the lads, the two best Irish youtubers in Thailand. Love this guys channel it deserves far more subscribers. Was one of my virtual travel 'go to' when I was stuck in lockdown. Comes across as sound a fella here as he does on his channel. 👍

    • @thethairishsun
      @thethairishsun 2 года назад +1

      😁😁😁 Thanks mate, lovely seeing a comment like that!

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Sound as a pound mate

  • @Josh-rn1em
    @Josh-rn1em 2 года назад +5

    This is perfect. He bought a business blind. He knew nothing of the culture. A bar girl was the majority share. All the red flags. Damn.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      He didn’t say she was a bar girl but she was certainly not the right choice for a majority share

    • @mr.christopherdean6705
      @mr.christopherdean6705 2 года назад +2

      @@ThairishTimesI'd say a bar girl is more of a behaviour than the actions of thier job in this instance. She was probably a bar girl some time in the past.

    • @justinw2232
      @justinw2232 2 года назад

      Trusting devils 😀

  • @ruthbanon6049
    @ruthbanon6049 2 года назад +1

    This Sun guys sounds like a good guy with a lot of courage and tenacity. Up for taking risks. Good for him. I wish him a lot of luck in life.

  • @nokchilton1562
    @nokchilton1562 2 года назад +1

    Interesting interview with yet another walk of life and good luck for the future Thairish Sun! Great one Pete 👍

  • @alanoconnor7967
    @alanoconnor7967 2 года назад +5

    Finished watching the video. Great honest Man there. You could see he's still pissed off inside. But at least he tried. Trying and failing is okay. Sitting and thinking what if. Is 100 times worse.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +2

      Fair play to him for sharing his story. It’s not easy talking about the mistakes you make in life. Especially on the internet

    • @russell3038
      @russell3038 10 месяцев назад

      Great comment

  • @markshepperson3603
    @markshepperson3603 Год назад +2

    Wise (in retrospect) words and a warning to all that think they can come here and make a ‘successful’ business in a country where you are ignorant of the ‘rules’ and doing it in a sector you have no practical experience in.
    Staff can delight in costing you cash or making you stressed.
    Land lords can put rent up on busy places as a sort of success tax.
    Land lords can kick you out after you’ve refitted a ‘shop’ to get more rent from next tenant.
    All the best T Sun, thanks for the honesty and hope it works out for you.

  • @sonnyveee
    @sonnyveee 2 года назад +3

    Big up on this video. Everything that you are talking about is exactly what I heard or experienced myself. From the business story to people who wants to drag u down with them. I came to Thailand 6 years ago on a vacation and since then I'm stuck. =)

  • @LiveMyAssOff
    @LiveMyAssOff 2 года назад +1

    You're interviews Great. I hope you are sharing this audio in podcasts so you can share these with Even More people!!!kick ass man.

  • @j.t.r1409
    @j.t.r1409 2 года назад +1

    Great video / topic. There needs to be more of this in SE Asia. Not many open conversations about the trouble doing business in SE Asian countries. Too many assumptions and false expectations. Tip of the hat to the guest for being open, honest, and sharing. People really need to think things through before starting a business in SE Asia.

  • @Avarua59
    @Avarua59 2 года назад +2

    Really enjoyed the entire interview. I think the Irish are really tops at telling their life story. 👍

  • @chinobonito30
    @chinobonito30 2 года назад +3

    From this interview and the way how he speaks, I can see why he had problems with Thai people in that business environment, he's talking to thai people like he's talking to a Brit, thai people would think he's disrespectful. I think his personality would make him successful in America. good work ethic and direct

    • @anna_m59
      @anna_m59 Год назад

      What you mean in America? That a continent .. if you think about United States I can tell you there is a strong labor law protect employees and employers has to talk respectful to their staff.

  • @sflxn
    @sflxn Год назад +2

    Always best to set up your income flow before moving overseas. The worst time to set up your life is when you’re stressed over finances.

  • @kohchangtai7820
    @kohchangtai7820 2 года назад +1

    Mate, I feel for you, and admire your patience and perseverance. Good luck to you 👍

  • @brice5542
    @brice5542 2 года назад +3

    Good stuff, thank you guys, I married a thai, did not work out, but our daughter stayed with me since 6 months old, she is now 25. not sure what it is about Thailand , it sure put a spell on me, cheers thanks.. Pop's FL. usa

  • @Simplyv888
    @Simplyv888 2 года назад +4

    This is so true, my boyfriend trains at Tiger brought the monthly package and so on and so forth. We don’t live at “tiger street” but I totally see what you’re getting at. Most people don’t leave the street it has everything there for them as fighters.

  • @gardengeek3041
    @gardengeek3041 2 года назад +11

    HIDDEN deep within the interview is valuable info about the DO'S & DONT'S of running a small bizz in Thailand. Be patient, this chatty fellow TAKES FOREVER to tell his story. Also, the responses provide much info, more concise, in the comments section from other foreigners who've been through this.
    To follow this important story, it also helps to have some understanding of the value of Thai money, the BHAT where everything is in thousands. For example, halfway thru it gets interesting when he tells of his first employee. She arrived with the police on Day 2, asking for 30,000 Bhat* to cover her previous half-day of work. How outrageous is that? Is she asking for the equivalent of 3 dollars or 3,000 dollars? Is she expecting an amount of that could bankrupt his business on the first day, before he's had a single customer?
    He immediately had the good sense to phone a bilingual lawyer down the street who settled the matter over the phone. The police took off, but he still had to cough up 20,000 Bhat. Here's some figures from Google, as of May 2022: average daily wage in Thailand is 770 Bhat = $20 U S. He handed over 20,000 Bhat = $575 US, or about 6 week's pay. It's an amount that hurts, but not enough to bankrupt him. In my country 2 weeks severance pay is a minimum, even for a half day of lousy work.
    What is not explained is what that first employee thought she was there to do. No it's not stated, it sounds like no one discussed her job description before she was hired. Once we learn that the moment any foreigner opens his business, there must always be a Thai on the premises, this takes on a different meaning. Maybe she thought her job was just to be there. Maybe she thought she was just going to be a waitress, and he was asking her to stand on the street and solicit customers, like a bar girl. Maybe she wanted to be a bar girl and was surprised to find it was only a restaurant. It's not clear how and why she came highly recommended.
    I can relate to many of these upsets, having run a small business for 45 years, sometimes solo, or with partners, with or without employees. Knowing how hard it is, I am completely in awe of those who do it as foreigners in another country.
    As this fellow describes this horrible experience, I get a sense of PTSD. The same thing happened to me when someone asked me to describe one of my worst business experiences. I couldn't explain it well at all. It gushed out in a non-sensical way.
    That's why this is worth watching 2 or 3 times.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      You analyzed this interview very well. I also enjoyed hearing your experiences too

  • @JJJJ-gl2uf
    @JJJJ-gl2uf 2 года назад +5

    Very interesting interview. Right after the tsunami of 2004 a friend and I managed to get a small hotel in Patong Beach. Obviously tourism was way down as everyone had fled, but once the water receded we moved down to Phuket to check out the situation. We ran that place for about six months, but tourism didn't bounce back much, so we got rid of it. We never made any money during that time, but it was a learning experience for sure, and we were lucky in that we had a couple of decent Thai staff who didn't require a lot of prodding. I moved on to China where I worked from 2005 till the pandemic began, and that was a lot better than my Thai business experience. Now I'm back in Thailand on a retirement visa and thinking of what to do next . . . .

    • @LaVoixdEnki
      @LaVoixdEnki 2 года назад

      Did you moved back to China for open up a restaurant or work for a company.

    • @JJJJ-gl2uf
      @JJJJ-gl2uf 2 года назад +1

      @@LaVoixdEnki I was a writing instructor at a teaching college in Guangdong for 15 years. The benefits of that job far outweighed what I was doing in Thailand. Unfortunately, when the pandemic struck I was outside China and haven't been able to return since. I may return to that job if China ever drops the "zero-COVID" nonsense, but for now I'm going to be staying in Thailand working on a software development program.

  • @MoreFormosa
    @MoreFormosa 2 года назад +1

    Great interview. Compelling real life story. Feel bad for that guy, hope he more thoroughly investigates any new foreign biz ventures, and that he has a successful experience. Thanks for sharing

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      You're very welcome. Thanks for watching

  • @metalextras
    @metalextras 2 года назад +2

    Thank you for sharing Pete's Irishman guest... Sometimes, blood line runs not as thick as money is, be optimistic change your environment, ASEAN is wide and you will meet the right people for sure...

  • @joemullen2583
    @joemullen2583 2 года назад +2

    Great stuff again lads, just subbed to his channel...cheers Pete

  • @djcconsults
    @djcconsults 2 года назад +2

    Thank you ..really appreciated this interview a real honest look into one man's experience in Thailand..I learned much

  • @stehind961
    @stehind961 2 года назад +2

    I'm a sub of his and it was great to hear some background of his good interview again Pete keep them coming

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      Yeah I was glad he told his story too. This was unplanned. I had no idea what he was going to say so I really enjoyed listening and learning a thing or two from it

  • @connielinz879
    @connielinz879 2 года назад +1

    A great video Pete🙂I already subscribe to his channel, it was interesting to hear a bit of his back story 👍

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Glad you enjoyed it Connie, it's an interesting backstory

  • @dorteandersen526
    @dorteandersen526 2 года назад +2

    Great interview on of the best 😀👍thanks Pete for share, he have a hard time this guy

  • @martingoodef811
    @martingoodef811 2 года назад +5

    If you are thinking of opening a business here, don’t. There is more in this video that is not said than said!

  • @CabStarr007
    @CabStarr007 2 года назад +1

    Thoroughly enjoyed this interview, have subbed to the mans channel 🔥

  • @srgba244
    @srgba244 2 года назад +3

    What a great interview! Eyes opening stuff!

  • @lightgearwire
    @lightgearwire 2 года назад +4

    Great great story well worth the watch. 👍 "In Thailand money No. 1"

  • @speakingscripts
    @speakingscripts 2 года назад

    Very educational! Vital lessons!!! Thank you so much! :-D

  • @alanoconnor7967
    @alanoconnor7967 2 года назад +3

    Heading to Thailand in November. Can't wait

  • @NickyDunn
    @NickyDunn 2 года назад +1

    Hiya Pete, I have been watching his channel for a while. Top bloke. Great interview. Great to hear his story. It will help many people. Great video. I hope The Thairish Sun gets the subscribers he needs to go live. He has worked so hard on his channel. I wish him all the best. Have a great evening.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +2

      I hope he gets their too Nicky. He's a top bloke and deserves it

    • @NickyDunn
      @NickyDunn 2 года назад +1

      @@ThairishTimes You are a top bloke. It will help his channel a lot. Have a great evening.

  • @andrewsteven5510
    @andrewsteven5510 2 года назад +4

    Wow Koh Samui has changed a lot! I was there back in '98 and stayed at a place called Charlie's Huts on Chewang beach. They were literally wooden huts on the beach, with no hot water (they had a large water tank that was heated by the Sun and it was used for the showers), no flushing toilets (you pee'd or pooped into a concrete hole and had to use a bucket of water to flush/clean the hole afterwards) and the electricity to the huts would be turned on when the sun went down and turned off again at sun rise (the huts were a little bit reminiscent of the huts in the UK t.v. series Tenko aired during the early '80s) . However, the place was dirt cheap (prices ranged from 100 through to 300 Baht at night) and you where literally on the beach. So really popular with back packer tourists. There was a restaurant on Chewang beach called the "Islander", which was the only place that did Farang food such as fish and chips, baked potatoes, baked beans and even had tomato ketchup, and sold diet coke! I think the "Islander" was owned and run by an English ex-pat and his Thai wife.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +2

      Cool, it sounds so different. Now there are big resorts on the beach. I think Koh Chang still has what you experienced in ‘98

    • @user-reconquista-now-2000
      @user-reconquista-now-2000 2 года назад

      @@ThairishTimes Tiger hut at Koh Chang

    • @ShayneMicchia
      @ShayneMicchia 2 года назад

      Sounds like the same Charlie's hut on Phi Phi 20 years ago.

    • @user-vs8yj8oy2v
      @user-vs8yj8oy2v 5 месяцев назад

      Now you go on beach Rd no beach insight

  • @user-qq8ls6fm2g
    @user-qq8ls6fm2g 3 месяца назад

    This guy is pretty honest about his travels. Well done fellas. I liked that chat.

  • @YelliNelliWellbeing
    @YelliNelliWellbeing 2 года назад +1

    When I was in Koh Samui I followed Thairish Suns videos and went to the places in his videos. So good 😊 especially the temple in the mountains 🏔 good times xxx

  • @ThailandThomas
    @ThailandThomas 2 года назад +23

    Great video Pete. Love hearing stories from entrepreneurs in Thailand. He has a great story an is very well spoken. I have own many businesses in the USA myself. Hopefully Thailand is next. It great that he is open to talking about the good, bad and ugly. We all make mistakes starting out. Just need to learn from those mistakes. Another great video mate!

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Cheers Thomas, glad you liked it mate

    • @waynedrummond6583
      @waynedrummond6583 2 года назад

      FYI, American businesses have access to open operations in Thailand via the "Amity Agreement"

  • @Hangover-ry9bo
    @Hangover-ry9bo 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks for sharing the real life story of a restaurant with partners. Please do more of these startup reflections. This kind of dream to have your own business is very common when falling in love with Thailand and its people.

  • @david-reason
    @david-reason 2 года назад +7

    Having been away from the UK for 7 years in Kazakhstan, China and Thailand, my friends and family did really ask me what it was like to live in China. This amazed me that your weren't interested or would even ask. Just like your guest commented. Great interview, I love to hear "Business" stories about success and/or failure having had my own business adventures. Thanks Pete.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      I've experiened the same in Ireland David and yes it amazed me too. I never hung around long enough to know why

  • @killingtime7350
    @killingtime7350 2 года назад +1

    Enjoyed the chat lads, cheers

  • @LoyMachedo
    @LoyMachedo 2 года назад +1

    16:40 onwards it gets seriously intense! Incredible Storytelling. I was absolutely glued to the video. He should write a book on this experience. It will fly off the shelves!
    LM

  • @DynamiteDB
    @DynamiteDB 2 года назад +2

    This is a great story. Thoroughly enjoyed it ❤️🍺.

  • @flexiblemouse9751
    @flexiblemouse9751 2 года назад +1

    Another great interview Pete keep them coming

  • @MusicalMemeology
    @MusicalMemeology 2 года назад +4

    Why would you trust some random Thai person you don’t know etc. You wouldn’t do the same in your own country so why Thailand where you don’t speak the language etc?

  • @t20ninja
    @t20ninja 2 года назад +4

    Well I am 100% Thai both parents are Thai and Thais think that I am a foreigner about 90% of the time......My Thai is also fluent !

  • @afrizal1227
    @afrizal1227 2 года назад +1

    Hi there @Thairish Times. Greetings to @Thairish Sun as well. I love both of your contents. Real stories. Real experiences. The real deal in my books. 👍🏼

  • @dongoldney
    @dongoldney 2 года назад +2

    Been going to Thailand since 84 leave the dream there and head hone from fantasy life back to reality .

  • @ovrcmng
    @ovrcmng 2 года назад +3

    i can feel him 100%
    is very hard to find good staff in Thailand
    if they are just a little bit unhappy, they will quit right away

  • @M0NEYBALLS
    @M0NEYBALLS 2 года назад +2

    Great interview thanks

  • @soldiermick
    @soldiermick 2 года назад +2

    Good to hear from someone who found it difficult. It’s not always sunshine and roses. Good he is still positive though.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      That’s it Mick. I like to mix is up. They can’t all be huge successes in business

  • @johnryan2193
    @johnryan2193 2 года назад +1

    Very good interview skills, you let the person TALK !

  • @noneofyourbizness
    @noneofyourbizness 2 года назад +1

    good honest chat. thanks

  • @chrisbarnard5516
    @chrisbarnard5516 2 года назад +2

    Really enjoying the channel, keep the interviews coming! Fellow expat here living in Vietnam. Can you let your audience know what cameras/equipment you use for the channel? Thanks.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      Sure Chris, Sony FDRx 3000 for the wide angle shot. Canon Rebel T for the close-up

  • @judyengle7728
    @judyengle7728 2 года назад +1

    You do a good job introducing people.

  • @martinkelly1856
    @martinkelly1856 2 года назад

    great interview, good storyteller. I can see you doing well on youtube :)

  • @shanexxx
    @shanexxx 2 года назад +2

    Great reality insight of the Thai expat business life. Small business entrepreneurship is always an uphill risky battle in this modern big corporation dominating world...

  • @leefantong2389
    @leefantong2389 2 года назад +9

    Compulsory 49% and 51% shareholding seems unfair while Malaysia allows 100% for foreigners

    • @garolstipock
      @garolstipock 2 года назад

      If not for that, foreigners would buy the land from under their feet and turn the people into tenants in their own land.
      I understand the 49/51 and agree with the idea if not the resulting execution.
      A foreigners desire to create a capital enterprise is not more important than other considerations.

  • @matthewanderson6254
    @matthewanderson6254 2 года назад +5

    Live and learn....
    Getting a lawyer to find a silent partner is probably more reliable than this...
    Keep your chin up start again because that's how we learn by mistakes and perseverance

  • @kevinmarr2162
    @kevinmarr2162 4 месяца назад

    Great Interview! Very switched on guy. Wish him all the best. Currently on Koh Samet!🇹🇭🙏

  • @marleymarl0
    @marleymarl0 2 года назад +9

    I started a business in Thailand over a decade ago, doing professional IT services. It’s very tough but there is money to be made. Like from this guys experience, my advice is have a good Thai partner. I have my wife, it makes things much easier to get Thai customers, manage staff, and manage other day-today stuff. I started alone, but having someone I trust and local in the business helped a lot.

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад +1

      Nice, I like to hear success stories like yours

  • @rickoleary9975
    @rickoleary9975 2 года назад +1

    The guest is very authentic and interesting

  • @kleerogers
    @kleerogers 2 года назад +3

    Good interview, sad story, but very common, the internet is full of stories like this, starting a business in a foreign country like Thailand is a recipe for disaster, if you travel to a place like Thailand and need to make money you are at a huge disadvantage. You need to bring enough money with you to survive, unless you are fortunate enough to have a good job in Thailand, maybe teaching English, but even that is not enough to survive really. Also, this person you interviewed admits he drinks a lot of alcohol, that causes depression, or at the very least adds to depression, I am always amazed at foreigners in Thailand (and other places) they complain about depression and admit to drinking a lot, that is like pouring gas on an open flame. Happiness is only achieved by helping others, the more we do for others the happier we are, PERIOD. There is no place for alcohol and drugs in my life, my health is way to important

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      I went back to find the part that where he said he drinks a lot. He didn’t say it. What he said was “I think a lot and it’s not too good to have too much time on your hands”

    • @kleerogers
      @kleerogers 2 года назад +2

      @@ThairishTimes At the beginning he said I was so shy I could not perform unless I drank a lot "I used to have to get drunk before I could go on stage", he said he suffers from depression, maybe he does not drink alcohol much anymore, but he was drinking a beer during the interview, if you suffer from depression, drinking any alcohol is going to make your depression worse

  • @thaiitnow
    @thaiitnow 2 года назад +1

    Great informative video, thank you! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • @mbluetraining
    @mbluetraining 2 года назад +1

    Great video!

  • @MIris44474
    @MIris44474 Месяц назад

    Great interview, the chap you spoke to seems like a sound lad and reminds me of myself living in Dublin, it is extremely negative.
    I was in Thailand 4 times and was recently considering opening a business there, but after hearing this it reminded me that many Thai people just look at us foreigners as bank machines and want easy money which is a major turn off.

  • @supertim000
    @supertim000 2 года назад +2

    the 49/51 shareholding structure only bad for foreigner IF the company only had common share (1:1 voting, pro rata dividend) since the company is controlling through the "voting" of the shareholders. if you hold preferred shares (which could be set up to be 1:100 voting with preferential rights on dividend) coupled with a proper SHA (shot gun provision included) you are having 100% control over the company and dividend.
    You're welcome

  • @blimolhm2790
    @blimolhm2790 2 года назад +2

    first video of yours I've seen, I've never been to Thailand so this is like a speed lesson for me! I wonder how similar it is in Vietnam, I went to Nha Trang and it's a vibe

    • @ThairishTimes
      @ThairishTimes  2 года назад

      Welcome to the channel, lots more informative content to come

  • @andrewmiles8852
    @andrewmiles8852 2 года назад +1

    great video, very honest