The Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) is optimistic about the country’s economic prospects, after the government announced its plan to reopen the country to international tourists and return to normal business conditions by mid-October. TCC chairman Sanan Angubolkul predicted the reopening will help draw foreign tourists back to the country and provide a boost to the country’s economy by 0.3% this year. He said the…
Living in a foreign country entails scores of challenges. While single expats may argue that the thrills and adventures far outweigh the struggles, those with children in tow discover that it is a different story altogether. Or is it? Meet Nina, a single parent employed as a teacher in Thailand. Years ago, she went back to her native country to fetch the four-year old daughter…
Chiang Rai is one of the most alluring destinations outside of Bangkok as this region offers a staggering range of amazing attractions. The rolling hills, sweeping mountains, lush green forests and nature, and rich melting pot of cultures make Chiang Rai one of the most engaging places to visit. Many small villages are filled with Thai local experiences that are far differently to those…
Northern Thailand Cities: Chiang Mai Vs. Chiang Rai Written By Kelly Iverson Chiang Rai is Chiang Mai’s weak competitor in terms of tourism. The lure of Chiang Mai’s laid-back vibe and hipster aura draws in travelers from all over Thailand. Because of this, Chiang Rai oftentimes gets lost in the shuffle. There is something about Chiang Rai, however, that continues to peak the curiosity of…
In the early 1970s, Harlem-based drug kingpin, Frank Lucas, was slinging his signature brand of heroin all over New York and the east coast. “Blue Magic,” as it was called, was the best-selling, closest-to-pure Asian heroin you could get. New York City’s special narcotics prosecutor called Lucas, “one of the most outrageous international dope-smuggling gangs ever… an innovator who got his own connection outside…
Marijuana in Thailand has been a big deal since the Vietnam War. Thai marijuana, in the form of Thai Sticks, became famous until the DEA persuaded the Thai Government to crack down. Now marijuana is coming back to Thailand. The Thai Government sees marijuana as a potential cash crop which can benefit Thailand’s economy and is considering hosting the World Ganja Festival January 29-February 2 next…
If you’re looking to stretch your retirement budget as far as you can and are up for an exotic adventure, consider retirement in Thailand. This country has a low cost of living as well as some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. However, the culture shock of living in Thailand can be significant for Americans. Before considering a move overseas, ask yourself if you will…
There are certain things I look for when I arrive in a new place. I call these my desirability factors. I rate them High, Medium, or Low. I will be adding new desirability factors soon. Walkability: I like living in self-contained neighborhoods. Places where everything I need is walkable from my home. The old town area of Chiang Rai is walkable. But it is a…
Want to live the country life in Thailand? Chiang Rai in Thailand’s far north is a great alternative to Chaing Mai and Bangkok.Life in Chiang Rai really is a breath of fresh air and a complete escape from traffic congestion. Even better, it’s cheap.Read on and you’ll get some of my top tips on: Why you should live in Chiang Rai, What to do in Chiang…
Eat and meet Being a relatively large town with a fair-sized expat community as well as plenty of passing visitors Chiang Rai has a correspondingly wide choice of restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Thai Porchai Khao Soi lies towards the northern end of Jetyod Road and is a standard local cafe in the neon lighting and aluminium table-style serving up an authentic khao soi with…