Thailand is often referred to as the “Land of Smiles” due to its friendly people, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. However, some not-so-great aspects about living in Thailand should be considered by anyone thinking about making a move. From rising costs of living to a lack of job opportunities, this blog post will dive into the bad things about living in Thailand that may come as a surprise or shock to some. So grab a cup of coffee, and let’s explore the other side of life in Thailand!
The cost of living in Thailand is rising
Thailand was one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable countries, attracting many budget travelers and expats. However, over the past few years, the cost of living in Thailand has been steadily increasing.
One significant factor contributing to this rise is currency fluctuations. The Thai baht has strengthened against major currencies such as the US dollar and Euro, making imported products more expensive. Additionally, inflation rates have increased in recent years due to a growing economy.
Housing prices have also gone up significantly in popular cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. While it’s still possible to find affordable housing options outside of these cities, it can be challenging for those who want to live close to their workplaces or city centers.
Food costs are another area where prices have risen over time. Although local markets and street food stalls may still offer low-cost meals, dining out at Western-style restaurants or buying imported groceries can quickly add up.
While Thailand remains an attractive place for foreigners seeking a lower cost of living compared with Western countries like Europe or North America; however it’s essential to keep in mind that living expenses continue to increase year by year.
Crime rates are increasing
Thailand has long been known as a safe destination for travelers and expats alike. However, in recent years, crime rates have been on the rise throughout the country. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is becoming more common in tourist areas like Bangkok and Phuket.
Unfortunately, it’s not just petty crimes that are increasing. Violent crimes such as assault and robbery have also seen an uptick in recent years. While this is still relatively rare compared to other countries, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when out at night or traveling alone.
One contributing factor to the increase in crime may be poverty levels among certain communities. As Thailand’s economy continues to grow, income inequality persists, which can lead some people into desperate situations.
Additionally, drug use is another factor that contributes to crime rates in Thailand. The country serves as a major transit point for drugs coming from neighboring countries like Myanmar (Burma), which can increase violent incidents related to drug trafficking.
While Thailand remains a relatively safe destination overall, visitors and expats alike need to exercise caution and stay informed about potential risks associated with living or traveling there amidst rising criminal activity.
The standard of living is decreasing
Living in Thailand used to be quite affordable, but with the rising cost of living and decrease in standards, it is becoming more difficult for the average person. A number of factors including pollution, traffic congestion, and overcrowding, has impacted the quality of life.
One of the most notable changes is how expensive it has become to live comfortably. Rent prices have soared over the past few years while wages remain stagnant. This makes it increasingly difficult for people to afford basic necessities like food and housing.
Additionally, with population growth comes increased demand for resources such as electricity and water which puts a strain on infrastructure. Consequently, there are frequent power outages that can last several hours or even days leaving residents without air conditioning during hot seasons.
Furthermore, a lot of areas in major cities are congested with heavy traffic making commuting time-consuming and stressful. Many people spend hours traveling each day just trying to get from one place to another.
These issues along with others contribute heavily towards decreasing standards of living in Thailand. While still being able to offer many attractions such as beautiful beaches or delicious food choices – its current challenges should not be overlooked when considering moving here long term or short term stay options alike.
There is a lack of job opportunities
One of Thailand’s biggest drawbacks is the lack of job opportunities, especially for expats. The country’s job market is highly competitive, and it can be challenging to find work that matches your skills and qualifications.
One reason for this is that many companies prefer to hire locals over foreigners due to language barriers and work permit requirements. Additionally, there are limited career advancement opportunities available for non-Thai speakers.
Another factor that contributes to the scarcity of jobs in Thailand is the high unemployment rate among Thais themselves. With so much competition locally, it can be tough for expats to secure employment in their field.
As a result, most foreign residents end up working low-paying jobs such as teaching English or hospitality industry roles. While these positions may provide some income, they often come with long hours and few benefits.
If you’re planning on moving to Thailand without a sustainable source of income already secured, it’s essential to consider potential challenges around finding suitable employment options beforehand.
The healthcare system is in poor condition
One of the biggest concerns for expats and locals alike is the state of Thailand’s healthcare system. While there are some facilities that offer high-quality care, many others fall short in terms of resources and expertise.
One issue is the lack of investment in public hospitals, which has led to a shortage of medical professionals and outdated equipment. This means that patients may have to wait longer or travel further to receive treatment.
Another problem is the affordability of healthcare services. Private hospitals can be expensive, making it difficult for those with lower incomes to access necessary care. Even basic procedures like dental work or check-ups can come at a steep cost.
The language barrier can also pose challenges for non-Thai speakers seeking medical attention. Communication errors could lead to misdiagnosis or improper treatment.
While there are certainly some excellent healthcare options available in Thailand, especially in larger cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, these issues must be addressed if the country wants to provide adequate care for all its citizens and visitors alike.
The education system is not up to par
While there are many wonderful things about living in Thailand, such as the friendly people and beautiful scenery, it is important to acknowledge the negative aspects as well. The rising cost of living, increasing crime rates, decreasing standard of living, lack of job opportunities, and poor healthcare system all contribute to a less-than-desirable quality of life. Additionally, with an education system that is not up to par compared to other developed countries, it can be difficult for individuals seeking high-quality education or career advancement opportunities.
It’s crucial for those considering moving to Thailand to thoroughly research and weigh the pros and cons before making any decisions. While some may find the positives outweigh the negatives and enjoy their time in this vibrant country, others may struggle with these challenges on a daily basis. Ultimately, only you can decide if living in Thailand is right for you based on your individual preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
Living in Thailand can be a great experience, but it’s important to go into it with your eyes open and aware of potential problems. Many people have had wonderful experiences living in Thailand and find that the pros outweigh the cons for them. However, if you are aware of some of the bad things about living in Thailand beforehand, then you can be better prepared to deal with any issues that may arise.
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